Emphasizing the critical role of mobility and transport in the climate agenda, SPARCS Reykjavík (SPARCS RVK) explores not only physical infrastructure but also delves into the digital realm, encompassing Mobility as a Service (MaaS) and innovative public engagement strategies.

Last month, SPARCS RVK convened a  joint meeting with Strætó, Reykjavík’s public bus company, alongside FourC, a Norwegian tech firm and MaaS developer. This session stems from a prior encounter at the CityXchange final event in Trondheim, Norway. FourC, in partnership with Trondheim Kommune, spearheaded the development of Mobee, a MaaS application within the EU-funded project CityXchange . Meanwhile, Strætó has been at the forefront, having launched the Klappið ticketing app three years ago, gradually transitioning towards a comprehensive MaaS platform.

The meeting served as a platform to chart the course for future endeavors, notably expanding the functionality of the journey planner. Discussions also revolved around integrating additional features into MaaS, such as private airport bus operators´data, flight information, EV charging stations, parking availability, gas stations, and taxi services. Furthermore, talks encompassed the prospect of an unified payment platform, integration of rural bus services, and enhanced collaboration with municipal authorities.

SPARCS RVK further broadened its horizons through discussions with Instant System, a French MaaS company recommended by EIT Urban Mobility. Their collaboration extends to Akureyri, the biggest town in northern Iceland, through the RAPTOR program. Instant System unveiled their MVP, named Flæði, during the meeting, offering insights applicable to Iceland as a whole, albeit with a primary focus on Akureyri.

Additionally, SPARCS RVK is actively engaged in the Twinning Programme facilitated by NetZeroCities. Paired with Lahti, Finland, Reykjavík is dedicated to learning and implementing scalable communication strategies aimed at fostering sustainable mobility behaviours among residents.

With SPARCS RVK actively contributing, Reykjavík’s commitment to embracing sustainable mobility solutions underscores its pivotal role in both combating climate change and shaping the cities of tomorrow.