Smart Mobility in Berlin: From Jelbi to Autonomous Driving

Smart Mobility in Berlin: From Jelbi to Autonomous Driving is a comprehensive analysis published by BVG (Berliner Verkehrsbetriebe) in collaboration with Technologiestiftung Berlin. This resource examines the evolving approach to urban transport in the German capital, emphasizing the integration of various mobility options into a seamless urban transport system.

Berlin is home to approximately 3.8 million residents, with a metropolitan area exceeding 6 million. The city boasts one of the most extensive public transport networks in Europe, including the U-Bahn, trams, buses, and ferries operated by BVG, alongside urban rail services managed by Deutsche Bahn. These systems collectively facilitate over one billion passenger journeys annually. However, Berlin faces several challenges, including a growing population, car ownership contributing to congestion, last-mile connectivity issues, and modal fragmentation due to multiple shared mobility services.

Jelbi, launched in 2019, is BVG's flagship mobility-as-a-service (MaaS) platform designed to consolidate diverse transport options into a single app. The name "Jelbi" references the iconic yellow buses and trains of BVG. This platform enables users to plan, book, and pay for journeys that incorporate public transport, bike-sharing, e-scooters, car-sharing, and ride-hailing services, all from one interface.

Jelbi aggregates services from various mobility providers, including BVG public transport, S-Bahn Berlin, bike-sharing services like nextbike, e-scooter companies such as TIER and Lime, and car-sharing options like Miles and SIXT share. A notable feature of the Jelbi concept is the establishment of Jelbi Stations across the city, which serve as multimodal interchange points, facilitating easy access to shared mobility vehicles near major transport hubs.

The Jelbi app allows users to plan multimodal journeys, compare travel times and costs, book and unlock shared vehicles, pay through a single payment system, and access real-time information on vehicle availability and public transport schedules. The data generated by Jelbi enhances understanding of travel patterns and aids in optimizing service provision.

Berlin is actively trialing autonomous vehicles in urban settings, exploring their potential to address mobility gaps. Pilot projects for autonomous minibuses are being tested on dedicated routes, primarily serving as last-mile connectors linking residential areas to major public transport nodes. The Autonomous Driving Act of 2021 provides a legal framework for these trials, positioning Berlin as a test market for autonomous vehicle operations.

Berlin's smart mobility initiatives are supported by the Berlin Mobility Act, enacted in 2018. This law prioritizes sustainable transport modes, mandates the expansion of cycling infrastructure, ensures investment in public transport, and promotes pedestrian-friendly urban design. It provides a framework for innovations like Jelbi and autonomous vehicle trials.

Despite the advancements, Berlin's mobility governance is fragmented, which can hinder decision-making and coordination. Additionally, there is a digital divide affecting residents' ability to utilize smartphone-based mobility platforms. Questions also remain regarding the environmental impact of shared mobility options and the readiness of autonomous vehicles for complex traffic conditions.

Berlin's approach to smart mobility highlights the importance of integration, physical infrastructure, regulatory support, incremental autonomy in vehicle trials, and data-driven planning for sustainable urban transport solutions.