The Toyota Mobility Foundation (TMF) and MCube Consulting have launched a joint research project to investigate and shape the future of mobility systems in Europe. The focus is on the long-term role of rail and its integration into a broader multimodal ecosystem.
The initiative titled „Futures of European Mobility Systems“ runs until May 2027 and aims to evidence-basedMeans that decisions, measures or concepts are based on verifiable facts, data or scientific findings - rather than on assumptions, opinions or pure experience. The aim is to create a sound and comprehensible basis for action and planning. Develop scenarios and transition pathways for how the European mobility system can evolve to address major societal, environmental, and economic challenges.
This joint research project reflects TMF's strategic goal of going beyond individual modes of transport to achieve a holistic, system-wide understanding of mobility. At its core is the conviction that mobility is not just about infrastructure or technology, but that it is a fundamental factor for social participation, equity, and quality of life.
By combining a global perspective with local expertise, the project aims to define the capabilities future mobility systems must offer to meet the needs of Europe's diverse population—from densely populated urban centers to underserved regions.
Building on the European Commission's vision of rail as the backbone of sustainable transport, this research project critically examines how rail can fulfill this role in practice – and where it needs to be supplemented by other mobility solutions.
The project pursues a „Rail-plus-X“ approach, considering that future mobility systems will depend on the interplay between rail and a variety of other transport modes. This includes addressing key challenges such as „first mile“ and „last mile“ connectivity, regional accessibility, and supply gaps in areas where rail alone cannot meet demand.
With this approach, the project aims to overcome isolated traffic planning and create integrated, multimodal ecosystems that are resilient, inclusive, and efficient.
The research will combine interdisciplinary methods from the fields of transport planning, economics, and policy analysis to deliver informed and actionable insights. Key elements include:
The result will be a series of clear, evidence-based frameworks designed to help decision-makers navigate complexity and accelerate the transition to sustainable mobility systems across Europe.
The project unites complementary strengths. TMF brings its mission-oriented approach and commitment to creating a more inclusive mobility society in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
MCube Consulting, rooted in the Munich Cluster for the Future of Mobility, contributes top-tier research, interdisciplinary expertise, and close connections to real-world practice tests and implementation.
Together, the joint research project aims to bridge the gap between vision and practical implementation, ensuring that insights are translated into tangible impacts for mobility systems and the people who rely on them.
Beyond the analytical results, the initiative aims to contribute to a broader European dialogue on mobility transformation. By involving stakeholders from government, industry, academia, and civil society, the project will help develop a shared vision for a sustainable, inclusive, and future-proof mobility system.
The Toyota Mobility Foundation (Chairman: Akio Toyoda) was established in August 2014 by Toyota Motor Corporation (Toyota) to promote the development of a more mobile society where everyone can move freely. The foundation underscores Toyota's ongoing commitment to continuous improvement and respect for people. It leverages Toyota's expertise and technologies to support robust mobility systems while addressing inequalities in mobility. The TMF collaborates with universities, governments, non-profit organizations, research institutions, and other organizations, developing programs aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to address mobility challenges globally.
„The TMF aims to create a truly mobile society that helps people lead better lives, no matter where they are,“ said Chairman Akio Toyoda.
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What is MOSAIQ?
Imagine something: There is more space for people. The streets have more trees and plants. Everyone can get around better. That's how your Schwabing-West district could be in the future. How would you like your district to be? We want to talk to you about it!
The project is called MOSAIQ. MOSAIQ is a research∙project. MOSAIQ means: Mobility and urban climate in the future city∙part. The Technical University of Munich is leading the project.
What is MOSAIQ about?
MOSAIQ wants to make the streets in the city∙part more beautiful. People should feel comfortable there. There should be more space. For meetings and plants, for example. You can help decide what is tried out in the Stadt∙teil. The ideas come from you. Some ideas will be tried out on the streets for a certain period of time.
The aim of MOSAIQ is to make urban districts good places to live.
At the same time, the climate in the city should improve. And people should be able to move around the city easily.
What is happening in the district?
