What is the Pendel Project?
Pendel takes European mobility managers to the next stop on their mobility transition with tools, roadmaps, and funding strategies for automated and demand-responsive transport. It’s Europe’s go-to consultancy for testing automated and demand-responsive public transport services. From the highlands of Scotland to the Port of Barcelona, Pendel has supported more than 70 public and private mobility managers to understand, plan, and deploy pilots for these cutting-edge transport solutions. Simply put, Pendel helps mobility managers of all experience levels advance their readiness for automated and demand-responsive mobility solutions.
Main Benefits of the Pendel Project
Here’s a quick snapshot of what Pendel brings to the table:
- Supported over 70 public and private mobility managers across Europe
- Worked from Scotland’s highlands all the way to Barcelona’s bustling port
- Planned and deployed the first autonomous vehicle on public roads in Barcelona, running a continuous month-long service
- Helped local authorities model automated and demand-responsive scenarios for data-driven decision making
- Assisted public transport providers in three countries to understand the local business case for automated and demand-responsive transport
Assessment Programs Tailored for Mobility Managers
Pendel offers a comprehensive assessment approach that’s designed to fit different needs. Whether it’s a group assessment program, an individual assessment program, or a deep dive into local case studies, the project ensures mobility managers get the insights they need. This hands-on evaluation helps identify readiness levels and areas for improvement, making the transition to automated and demand-responsive transport smoother and more effective.
Strategic Roadmaps for Innovation and Roll-Out
Strategy is at the heart of Pendel’s work. The project crafts mobility innovation strategies that pave the way for future-ready transport systems. It also develops roll-out strategies specifically for Cooperative, Connected and Automated Mobility (CCAM) and Demand-Responsive Transport (DRT). These strategies aren’t just theoretical—they’re practical guides that help mobility managers navigate the complexities of deploying new technologies and services.
Deployment Support and Collaboration Building
Deploying pilots can be tricky, but Pendel makes it easier by offering hands-on deployment support. This includes pilot deployment assistance, funding support through programs like ELENA and Interreg, partner search, and collaboration building. The project’s work with the Port of Barcelona is a prime example—planning and running the first autonomous vehicle on public roads there, with a continuous month-long service that proved the concept in a real-world setting.
Project Impact on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
- SDG 13: Climate Action
- SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
Driving the Future of European Mobility
At its core, Pendel is about pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in public transport. By supporting mobility managers with tools, strategies, and real-world pilot deployments, it’s helping Europe move towards smarter, more flexible, and automated transport solutions. The project’s blend of assessment, strategy, and deployment support creates a solid foundation for the future of mobility—one that’s responsive to demand, automated where it counts, and ready to meet the challenges of tomorrow.
