Marc Rozendal has built his career around business transformation, technological innovation and sustainability, aligning closely with the mission and objectives of EIT Urban Mobility. Prior to this role, he served as managing director for the UK at the ride-hailing scale-up Ola and as CEO of Cab Guru, a transportation technology startup. In the Netherlands, he held senior positions in several key companies within the public transport sector, including Transdev Nederland, Connexxion (a part of Transdev), and Dutch Railways.

Rozendal expressed his enthusiasm for the new role: “EIT Urban Mobility is a unique organisation, playing a key role in shaping the future of mobility across Europe. I look forward to bringing my knowledge and experience to this position and to work at the European scale to advance sustainable urban transport solutions.”

Marc Rozendal holds three Bachelor’s degrees, a BSc in Engineering, Business Administration and Management from Aeres University of Applied Sciences Dronten. Prior to that, he studied Business Management at HU University of Applied Sciences Utrecht and Management, Economics and Law at Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences.

His appointment marks a new phase for EIT Urban Mobility as it continues to drive innovation, education, and city engagement in the sector. EIT Urban Mobility extends its gratitude to Mika Rytkönen, who has served as interim CEO over the past four months, for his dedication and leadership during this period.

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Exploring future-ready urban logistics at MWC

The MWCapital experience at MWC 2025 will feature an interactive demonstration across six themes, with mobility and last-mile logistics being central themes. At the stand, visitors can engage with a digital map of Barcelona, co-designed with EIT Urban Mobility, to see real-time impact of different distribution models on traffic, pollution and logistics efficiency. 

With e-commerce intensifying urban challenges, the experience illustrates various technological solutions including urban logistics centres, micro-platforms, electric vehicles, and cargo bikes for distribution in pacified zones. The display also features initiatives like Low Emission Zones and demonstrates how cities can create cleaner environments. 

Visitors can explore points of interest on the map and compare different delivery models through dynamic graphics and animations. The platform reveals advantages and disadvantages of each approach in terms of efficiency and sustainability, aiming to raise awareness about optimising urban logistics and showcasing how data computation technologies can advance more sustainable mobility models for Barcelona. 

As a content partner, EIT Urban Mobility will also participate in the Cities in movement: Challenges and solutions for the last-mile logistics on 4 March from 15:30 to 16:30 CET at the Mobile World Capital Barcelona Foundation Booth. Martí Massot, Public Sector Development Manager at EIT Urban Mobility, will join the session alongside Maria Savall Mañó from the Ajuntament de Barcelona and Mariola Panzuela from C40.  

Joining key mobility conversations

Beyond this collaboration, EIT Urban Mobility will participate in several high-profile activities on 5 March: 

María Paula Caycedo, Ecosystem & Stakeholder Director at EIT Urban Mobility, will represent the organisation at a panel hosted by Huawei, focusing on the inclusion of women in STEM and industry, specifically within the mobility sector. Titled Talent for a Sustainable Future: A Look Beyond Digital Skills, the session, featuring representatives from Airbus Defence and Space, Huawei, and Barclays, will be held at 15:30 CET at Hall 3, Stand 3A10. 

Adriana Diaz, Innovation Director at EIT Urban Mobility, will moderate a session on sustainable mobility beyond electrification as part of the Green Tech Programme at 4YFN-MWC Barcelona 2025. Speakers will include Timo Buetefisch, CEO of Cooltra, Gregory Duconge, CEO of Vulog, and Remy de Tonnac, Partner at ETF Partners. The session will run from 15:50 to 16:20 CET at the Beta Lab Stage, Hall 8.1. 

Mireia Gilibert, Innovation Lifecycle Officer at EIT Urban Mobility, will join the Digital Skills Networking Panel on digital technologies for SMEs, alongside representatives from UAB, Universidad de Aveiro, UNESCO, i2CAT, and EURECAT. This session will be held at 10:30 CET at the Digital Arena. 

Fostering collaboration for cleaner, smarter cities

“Collaboration between institutions isn’t just beneficial but essential if we are to tackle the urgent challenges facing our cities,” said María Paula Caycedo, Ecosystem & Stakeholder Director at EIT Urban Mobility. “At MWC, we have the opportunity to bring together diverse perspectives to confront the realities of urban congestion and environmental impact. Through technological innovation, we aim to contribute to more equitable and sustainable urban spaces.” 

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The report finds that Europe’s transport networks are designed for a narrow demographic: typically, men aged 25 to 45, who work traditional 9-to-5 jobs, have no care responsibilities, and speak the local language. However, this does not reflect the reality of European society. According to Eurostat, over 100 million people in the EU have care duties, another 100 million live with disabilities, and more than 90 million are aged 65 or older. The gap between existing mobility services and the needs of the wider population is a pressing issue that requires urgent attention. 

The Better Mobility Trendreport identifies trends and solutions through interviews and workshops with industry players and startups.  

Key trends shaping the future of mobility 

One of the main findings of the report is the growing need for holistic transport systems that integrate diverse mobility options. Currently, mobility services are fragmented, with many actors offering poorly connected services. Cooperation across borders, the integration of different transport modes, and the creation of multimodal hubs are crucial for developing a system that serves everyone. “Austria’s Klima Ticket is an excellent example of how integrating different transport services can make mobility more seamless and accessible,” says Lina Mosshammer at Point& and co-author of the report. “By offering nationwide access, including shared mobility options, it simplifies travel and improves coverage for a wider range of users.” 

The study also highlights the rapid growth of urban populations and the importance of designing liveable, pedestrian-friendly cities. By 2025, more than 80% of EU residents will live in urban areas, making it essential to prioritise walkability, green spaces, and safer infrastructure. Paris, for instance, has committed to creating 100 hectares of new green spaces. 

Another trend identified is the ageing population in the EU, which requires the integration of physical and mental health considerations into mobility planning. By 2030, one in four people in the EU will be aged 64 or older, many of whom are eager to stay active. Mobility can be linked to health by empowering people to move independently, promoting active commuting, and incorporating demographic trends into urban planning. The German city of Griesheim, with its concept of a “sittable and playable city,” is highlighted for its focus on improving paths for children and pedestrians with limited mobility. 

Safety and security remain a key trend as well. Progress has stalled in the EU, with only a one-percentage-point decrease in road fatalities in 2023 compared to 2022. The report emphasises the need for well-lit, attractive public spaces, reliable public transport, and safe cycling infrastructure to build user trust. Helsinki and Oslo, for instance, achieved the Vision Zero target in 2019 by reducing traffic, limiting access to city centres, and implementing speed limits in residential areas. 

The role of startups in driving user-centric innovation 

A key source of insights for the report has been the Better Mobility Accelerator, a pan-European innovation programme with headquarters in Lisbon and Vienna. Insights from startups in the accelerator have been instrumental in identifying emerging solutions to bridge accessibility gaps in transport systems. 

“Startups are at the forefront of rethinking mobility, offering fresh perspectives and user-centred innovations that make transport systems more inclusive and adaptable,” says Alexis Eremia, Co-Founder and Managing Director at Impact Hub Vienna. “Through the Better Mobility Accelerator, we have witnessed how early-stage companies challenge existing models and create solutions that address the diverse needs of today’s populations.” 

Finally, the report highlights untapped potential for making transportation more accessible. The data reveals that only 5% of innovations are focused on tourism and only 10% on health, despite the latter being a major trend. Expanding inclusive and sustainable mobility options for these sectors could drive growth and enhance accessibility for a broader range of users. “Creating a more inclusive transport system requires embedding diversity, equity, and inclusion into the investments and impact ventures we support. Joint efforts like the Better Mobility Community – the largest ecosystem in Europe for inclusive, safe, affordable, and green mobility, help Europe stay ahead of trends and innovations, leveraging inclusivity as a competitive advantage,” says Lina Mosshammer, Co-Founder and Managing Director at Point& and co-author of the study. 

Yoann Le Petit, Thought Leadership Manager at EIT Urban Mobility and co-author of the study also notes improving mobility does not always require major technological breakthroughs. “Our report shows that in many cases, small improvements to infrastructure, service design, or transport accessibility can have a transformative impact.” 

The Better Mobility Accelerator  goal is to develop innovative mobility solutions and business models tailored to the mobility needs of diverse user groups. The programme is funded by EIT Urban Mobility and the European Union. The current call for startups is open until April 21.  

Download the report here

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The European mobility sector faced a sharp downturn in venture capital investment in 2024, with total funding dropping to $6 billion in 2024, a 30% decline from the previous year. The dominance of EV battery and charging investments waned as investors pivoted towards autonomous vehicles and sustainable aviation. Corporate investors also expanded their role, contributing to nearly half of all European mobility funding rounds, more than doubling their share from 2020. 

Despite this challenging backdrop, EIT Urban Mobility continued to strengthen its portfolio, with investments spanning transport electrification, urban logistics, and mobility data management. The organisation has also made strategic investments in emerging areas such as micromobility and behavioural change initiatives that encourage walking and other active transport modes. 

Fredrik Hanell, Director of Impact Ventures at EIT Urban Mobility: “Since 2020, we’ve emphasised broadening our investment scope to capture promising urban mobility innovations across many countries and business models. The lessons have allowed us to refine our focus on impact and gender diversity. We will continue this in 2025 while targeting larger investment rounds going forward.” 

To quantify the net impact of its portfolio, EIT Urban Mobility uses the Upright Net Impact Model, an analytical framework based on over 250 million scientific articles and 150,000 product and service categories. According to this model, EIT Urban Mobility’s portfolio has a 48% positive net impact score, outperforming the benchmark of 37%. Environmental benefits remain a standout area, with the portfolio companies achieving a score that is 133% higher than the industry average. 

A further priority for EIT Urban Mobility is fostering diversity and gender balance. The VIA ID report highlights that just 4% of venture capital funding in the European mobility sector is directed towards women-led startups. In contrast, 45% of EIT Urban Mobility’s equity investments are in businesses led by women, demonstrating a firm commitment to addressing this disparity. 

Beyond its environmental and diversity objectives, EIT Urban Mobility has a dedicated investment budget for European economies that require more support in the innovation sector. These regions identified under the Regional Innovation Scheme, hold significant untapped potential. By directing resources to these areas, EIT Urban Mobility contributes to economic growth, job creation, and the development of sustainable transportation systems.  

Looking ahead to 2025, EIT Urban Mobility, aims to further expand its portfolio with an investment strategy focusing on creating positive outcomes for both people and the planet while ensuring competitive market returns.  To facilitate easier international scaling, EIT Urban Mobility strengthens its collaboration with the top pan-European startup ecosystems. Collaborations are in place with the Moove Lab (Paris), The Drivery (Berlin), Drive TLV (Tel Aviv), and OGR (Turin).    

Read the report here

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• The EU-Propel project takes the AIT’s Current open innovation programme, Propulse, to the next level, facilitating that the 3 winning startups could test their solutions on real environments.  

• The French cities of Paris, Nevers, Rouen and Toulouse hosted the pilot test of the winning solutions.  

France, 31^st January 2025 – Collaboration between the public and private sectors is crucial for promoting sustainable urban mobility solutions. As European Union member states strive for better alignment between European and national initiatives, EIT Urban Mobility, an initiative of the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT), a body of the European Union has co-funded the EU-Propel project.  The project was developed as a result of EIT Urban Mobility’s Targeted Call and in collaboration with l’Agence des Innovations pour les Transports (AIT) with the goal of creating effective collaboration channels with existing national, regional, and city open innovation programmes. 

EU-Propel (also known as EU-Propulse), led by the Agence de l’Innovation pour les Transports (AIT), brings together three graduate startups from the open innovation programme Propulse, along with innovation consultancy Bax & Company and a large network of EU cities, to tackle car-dependency issues in logistics, commuting and leisure.  
 

Thanks to the EU-Propel project, the winning startups of the Propulse programme—Ynstant, 1KM à Pied, and Deki— were granted with the advantages of EIT Urban Mobility’s Targeted call, gaining exclusive access to test and implement their solutions in selected French cities, which act as living laboratories and provide real-world environments that allow the startups to refine their innovations and showcase their potential impact. 

• French Startup Deki optimises last mile delivery to enable urban logistics free from greenhouse gas emissions, congestion and pollutants in the metropolis of Rouen and Toulouse; 

• French Startup 1km à Pied reduces unnecessary car commutes by reallocating multisite employees closer to their home in the metropole of Rouen; 

• French Startup Ynstant fights low car occupancy by offering an instant carpooling solution in the urban agglomerations of Paris-Saclay and Nevers. 

During the last week of January 2025, the EU-Propel project hosted successful presentations in the French cities of Paris-Saclay, Nevers, Rouen, and Toulouse. These cities, as hosts, played a crucial role in the project, providing real-world environments for the startups to showcase their potential impact on local urban challenges. 

In addition to the startup’s demonstration, representatives from each host city also participated, sharing their perspectives on how the programme aligns with local priorities and addressing questions from attendees. These collaborative events not only highlighted the programme’s potential but also reinforced the importance of partnerships between innovative enterprises and local authorities in driving sustainable urban development. 

“This collaboration underscores our commitment to fostering innovation and creating smarter, more sustainable urban environments,” says María Paula Caycedo, Head of EIT Urban Mobility’s Innovation hub South. “By enabling startups to test their solutions in diverse urban settings, we are paving the way for scalable and impactful mobility innovations.” 

Programmes like EIT Urban Mobility’s Targeted call facilitate developing and implementing new urban mobility solutions. By aligning goals and leveraging shared resources, promote a collaboration that fosters scalable and inclusive solutions necessary for sustainable urban mobility and aligns with broader European objectives of reducing carbon emissions, enhancing accessibility, and improving the overall quality of urban life.  

EU-PROPEL project lasts 12 months and is granted with a total of €400,472.  

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Open letter to the Ministers of the General Affairs Council and the Ministers of the Economic and Financial Affairs Council: 

A competitive and resilient Europe requires a stronger European transport budget.

Europe’s transport sector is the backbone of the EU internal market and outreach to the world.  A strong sector is a prerequisite for building a competitive, net-zero and resilient Europe. 

Europe’s transport sector strongly urges the Member States and the Commission to preserve and strengthen a solid dedicated European transport funding instrument under the future EU budget. The European coordination of infrastructure across Europe is more than ever crucial. It is the only guarantee for safeguarding the smooth functioning of the EU internal market, promoting Europe’s competitiveness and cohesion, and bolstering its resilience and military preparedness. As such, the transport sector is very concerned about the Commission’s plans to redirect a large majority of the European transport funding towards National Single Plans and asks the Finance Ministers of the Member States to give a strong signal towards the Commission in favour of preserving a solid dedicated European transport funding instrument. 

Jacques Delors emphasised the essential role of European networks and connectivity already in his 1993 white paper on “Growth, Competitiveness and Employment”, highlighting their contribution to strengthening our economy and creating jobs. European policymakers ever since have been developing a trans-European transport network policy, acknowledging the necessity of a dedicated EU funding instrument to ensure its completion. More recently, the Mario Draghi and Enrico Letta reports reaffirm this as a crucial policy priority, underscoring how a well-functioning European transport network is essential to drive economic growth, job creation and social and regional cohesion. Instead of turning to an approach where national priorities may prevail, now it is ever more crucial for Europe to keep course on a European coordinated and managed investment instrument. That is the only way to achieve a well-integrated and interconnected transport network across the Union, to the benefit of Europe’s economy, society and security.  

In fact, a robust European transport network is of strategic importance in responding to Europe’s current challenges. Only with strong and state-of-the-art transport infrastructure at its core, will Europe be able to ramp up its military mobility, strengthen its industrial competitiveness and economic, social and territorial cohesion, ensure its supply of critical raw materials, and safeguard its supply chain sovereignty. With rising geopolitical tensions and ongoing climate change, it must be Europe’s top priority to strengthen and adapt our infrastructure, address bottlenecks and missing links, and optimise its connectivity and capacity. Transport is the backbone and enabler of the EU internal market, so if Europe is to be a leader in the shift to a net-zero industry and society, it needs to provide a competitive and efficient transport network to link the current and new production sites with their markets. 

Especially in uncertain times, Europe cannot afford to go in the direction of less connectivity, less internal cohesion and less Europe. A European approach offers added value by harmonising efforts and pooling financial resources, achieving outcomes that an individual national approach alone cannot effectively deliver. The transport sector supports the shift to an EU budget that is more flexible and agile, yet requires a long-term strategic and stable investment planning with centralised coordination at European level if it is to properly function. The transport sector therefore urges the Member States and the Commission to choose for an approach that strengthens Europe, to preserve a strong and centrally coordinated dedicated European transport funding instrument that prioritises investments of high European added value, and to refrain from jeopardising the future and competitiveness of Europe’s transport network, which is fundamental to achieve Europe’s priorities.  

List of signatories:  

ESPO – European Sea Ports Organisation; ERFA – European Rail Freight Association; EIM – European Rail Infrastructure Managers; CLECAT – European Association for Forwarding, Transport, Logistics and Customs Services; INE – Inland Navigation Europe; IRU – International Road Transport Union; EBU – European Barge Union; UNIFE – The European Rail Supply Industry Association; EFIP – European Federation of Inland Ports; FEPORT – Federation of Private Port Operators and Terminals; UETR – European Road Hauliers Association; POLIS – European Cities and Regions Networking for Innovative Transport Solutions; ETSC – European Transport Safety Council; COCERAL – European traders in agri-commodities and agrosupply; CPMR – Conference of Peripheral Maritime Regions; UIRR – International Union for Road-Rail Combined Transport; IWTP – Inland Waterways Transport Platform; ETF – European Transport Workers’ Federation; ECG – Association of European Vehicle Logistics; ACEA – European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association; STRING – String Megaregion; Scandria Alliance – Scandria Alliance; ESPORG – European Secure Parking Organisation; UITP – International Association for Public Transport; ERF – European Union Road Federation; WATERBORNE – Waterborne Technology Platform; UIP – International Union of Wagon Keepers; ESC – European Shippers’ Council; ECASBA – European Community Association of Ship Brokers and Agents; BPO – Baltic Ports Organization; EMPA – European Maritime Pilots’ Association; ALE – Federation of European Train Drivers’ Unions; UNISTOCK – European association of portside storekeepers of agri-bulk commodities; ALICE – Alliance for Logistics Innovation through Collaboration in Europe; ETA – European Tugowners Association; ARDAN – Solutions for Innovation; EIT Urban Mobility – European initiative transforming urban mobility; CER – Community of European Railway and Infrastructure Companies; ACI EUROPE – Airports Council International Europe; ESO – European Skippers’ Organisation; EUROPLATFORMS – European Association of Logistics Platforms; ASECAP – Association Européenne des Concessionnaires d’Autoroutes et d’Ouvrages à Péage; A4E – Airlines for Europe; EuDA – European Dredging Association; Rhine-Alpine Corridor – Corridor Rhine-Alpine; IWI – Inland Waterways International; Open ENLoCC – European Network of Logistics Competence Centres; EMTA – European Metropolitan Transport Authorities; CANSO – Civil Air Navigation Services Organisation.

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Nick Brown, CEO of Velogik UK and project lead, commented: 

“This study will serve as a critical tool in demonstrating the clear return on investment that bike-sharing systems can provide to cities and communities. By quantifying the health, environmental, and economic benefits, we aim to build a stronger case for the expansion of bike-sharing infrastructure across Europe. This research will not only help unlock further investment in sustainable transport but also support policymakers in making data-driven decisions that will benefit both the environment and the economy.” 

The study will focus on several key areas, including the reduction of healthcare costs, productivity increases, the potential value of carbon credits, and the economic stimuli generated by cycling infrastructure. The findings will be compiled into a comprehensive White Paper with actionable recommendations for both the public and private sectors. 

Kristian Brink, CEO of Urban Sharing and Chair of the Bicycle Share Expert Group for Cycling Industries Europe, stated: 

“Bike-sharing systems are already delivering significant benefits across Europe, but there is still so much untapped potential. This study will provide valuable insights into the financial returns these systems can generate, and how they can contribute to achieving net-zero targets and sustainable urban development. By collaborating with CIE members and a top-tier research institution, we are ensuring that the findings are grounded in rigorous analysis and can drive real change in the cycling industry and beyond.” 

The study will also examine the barriers preventing the widespread adoption of bike-sharing schemes and provide recommendations on overcoming these obstacles. These insights will be instrumental in shaping future policy and ensuring that bike-sharing is accessible and sustainable in cities across Europe. 

Lauha Fried, Policy Director of Cycling Industries Europe, added: 

“This study is an essential step toward providing evidence for the role of bike-sharing in the transition to greener and more sustainable transport. By highlighting the broad benefits and ROI, we can inspire more cities to implement bike-sharing schemes that not only improve public health but also contribute to economic resilience and climate goals. We are excited to see the impact this study will have on shaping policy and furthering our efforts to promote cycling as a viable and essential mode of transport.” 

Bernadette Bergsma, Communications & EU Affairs Director of EIT Urban Mobility, added: 

“Cycling is pivotal to the sustainable urban mobility transition, and a key mode of transport for urban areas in Europe. Partnering with Cycling Industries Europe on this study will help us access much-needed insights, allowing to quantify the benefits of cycling in general and of bike-sharing in particular. We look forward to sharing these key facts with stakeholders and decision-makers from the EU transport community.” 

The RfP is open to research firms, academic institutions, and top-tier consultancies, with proposals due by 25 February 2025 at 4pm CET. The successful bidder will be expected to deliver a comprehensive White Paper that will support CIE’s mission to influence and inspire key stakeholders in the public and private sectors. For more information or to submit a proposal, please visit EIT Urban Mobility. 

Click here to find out more.

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The study offers a detailed simulation of three transition scenarios across twelve European city prototypes and reveals that sustainable urban mobility is within reach but requires substantial investments and bold urban planning. By 2030, technological advancements in mobility could reduce CO₂ emissions by 21%, but meeting the Green Deal’s 55% target will demand €1.5 trillion in funding by 2050, with €500 billion allocated to sustainable mobility initiatives.  

Effective measures identified include enhancing public transport, promoting shared mobility, and implementing access restrictions like low-emission zones, which could increase public transport ridership by 7% and cut private car use by 16% within the decade. By 2050, these strategies, combined with technological innovations and fleet renewals, are expected to align with the Green Deal’s decarbonisation targets. While the financial investment is substantial, the projected benefits like emission reductions, improved health, and cost savings demonstrate a clear net positive impact. 

First unveiled in October last year, the study remains highly relevant as cities around the globe ramp up efforts to tackle the climate crisis and strive to meet ambitious CO₂ reduction targets. 

Yoann Le Petit, Thought Leadership manager at EIT Urban Mobility, and author of the study, commented on the findings: “The International Reducing CO₂ Emissions Day reminds us of the critical role cities play in tackling climate change. Our study shows that investing in sustainable urban mobility systems pays off, with the benefits being 1.5 times higher than the costs. As Europe races to meet its climate goals, our study aims to serve as a roadmap for policymakers, city planners, and stakeholders to navigate the complex challenges and opportunities ahead.” 

In addition to emission reductions, the study points to significant public health benefits. A shift towards more active modes of transport, such as walking and cycling, could lead to cumulative health savings of up to €1,170 per capita by 2050, driven by the benefits of a more active lifestyle. Moreover, improvements in road safety are anticipated, with potential reductions in road traffic fatalities by up to 70% by 2050 because of safer infrastructure and the adoption of intelligent transport systems. 

The research underscores that, regardless of a European city’s characteristics, prioritising public transport is essential for a fair and sustainable urban mobility transition. Public transportation provides an ideal compromise between CO₂ emission reductions and investments, but also is the only inclusive mobility option for all segments of the population. Even when accounting for infrastructure and investment costs, public transport stands out as an affordable option for inclusive and low CO₂ emissions, and one of the most realistic and practicable approach to meet the Green Deal objectives. 

For further information or for the full copy of the study click here.

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ROADSCOR (Road Optimisation Analysis for Design Safety by Conflict Review) is accelerating the development and adoption of its innovative road safety evaluation approach, thanks to a significant grant from EIT Urban Mobility through their Targeted Call. The tool aims to enhance the safety of vulnerable road users (VRUs) by optimising road design without relying on crash or near-miss data. The project, valued at €589,762 and financed 65% by EIT Urban Mobility, will help bring the methodology closer to wide-scale implementation. EIT Urban Mobility is an initiative of the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT), a body of the European Union. 

Roadscor, in collaboration with esteemed partners Siemens Digital Industries Software, Aimsun, and Royal HaskoningDHV, will progress the tool from Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 7 to TRL 9 by conducting comprehensive assessments for reference cases in two major European cities. Insights gained from these real-world applications will guide the refinement of the data-driven tool, ensuring it meets the practical needs of engineers and road authorities for assessing and improving intersection safety. 

As founder of Roadscor, Robbert Lohmann stated: “We are excited to receive this grant from EIT Urban Mobility. Their recognition and support highlight the innovative nature of the approach. The decision of leading European cities from Belgium and Italy to collaborate with the cooperating parties demonstrates their trust in our tool and reflects the growing need across Europe to improve road safety for vulnerable road users. This grant not only validates our efforts but also propels us forward in our mission to support the creation of safer urban environments worldwide.” 

Willem-Frederik Metzelaar, Head of Innovation Hub West at EIT Urban Mobility commented: ‘we are delighted to be able to support Roadscor. It is an important step towards increasing road safety. As Europe is preparing itself for enormous infrastructural maintenance and renewal projects Roadscor comes at the right time to design safe futureproof roads. Also, Roadscor will facilitate a more complex modality mix using the roads. More active travel, Light Vehicles, and Autonomous Vehicles next to what we already know. Roadscor prepares us for this’.  

KEY OBJECTIVES: 

Key objectives of the EIT Urban Mobility project: 

• Data-Driven Risk Assessments: Perform risk assessments for urban intersections, demonstrating the impact of suggested safety measures and modifications. 

• Technological Readiness: Take the tool from TRL 7 to TRL 9, empowering traffic engineers with a cutting-edge solution to evaluate intersection designs for VRU safety. 

• Score definition: Develop a standardised score using insights from the reference cases, ensuring it meets the needs of traffic engineers, decision-makers, and road authorities for practical, actionable safety improvements.  

The innovative approach supports the safety of VRUs by providing objective conflict analysis of all possible movements at urban intersections. As European cities increasingly prioritise active mobility, the safety of vulnerable road users (VRUs) such as pedestrians and cyclists become a top concern for urban planners and road authorities. Roadscor empowers traffic engineers with actionable insights, enabling the design of safer intersections that prevent serious injuries and saves lives. This solution aligns with the European Commission’s Vision Zero goals, aiming to eliminate fatalities by 2050 and a 50% reduction by 2030. 

ABOUT THE PARTIES: 

Roadscor: the commercial partner and project leader for delivering the innovative safety evaluation software tool. The company was founded by a former Siemens Commercial Director, who recognised the potential to apply automotive technology to assess road infrastructure safety for all road users, including vulnerable road users (VRUs). Leveraging his experience with road authorities, city planners, and engineering companies, he established the company in April 2024. 

Siemens Digital Industries Software: Siemens, a leading provider of simulation software, offers Simcenter Prescan for developing and virtually verifying Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and autonomous vehicles. Their proprietary Critical Scenario Creation methodology generates unsafe-unknown scenarios based on road design and recorded data. As the original developer of this methodology, Siemens contributes its expertise to the project and supports traffic engineers in conducting conflict analysis.  

Aimsun: a global leader in digital mobility solutions for transportation authorities, highway agencies, public transit operators, and consultancies. Aimsun’s simulation and predictive data analytics help customers understand and predict transportation network performance, aiding decision-making. Their pedestrian and bicycle models are crucial for conflict analysis. As an expert partner, Aimsun contributes its extensive experience in traffic modelling, particularly for vulnerable road users.  

Royal HaskoningDHV: Royal HaskoningDHV is an independent consultancy which integrates 140 years of engineering expertise with digital technologies and software solutions. Their engineers were the first to recognise the potential of conflict analysis to enhance road safety. With their integrated approach, Royal HaskoningDHV conducts the assessments for the reference cases and advises road authorities on design modifications and measures to promote safe road user behaviour. 

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