The first part of this topic invites for proposals that combine new technologies and non-technological innovations, more effective forms of governance, and accompanying (policy-based) measures for all modes of transport.
The proposed projects should be carried out by local/regional authority-led consortia, covering three different urban or inter-urban areas that have a connection with the TEN-T network[1] or an equivalent size, major European transport corridor, each of them facing different spatial, social and/or economic challenges.
Each urban area should establish a living laboratory where under real life-conditions a set of innovative, complementary and reinforcing scalable mobility solutions centered around a principal solution can be developed, tested and implemented in an integrated, multimodal approach. The participating urban areas, which may have a geographical coverage that goes as far as the full functional urban area, should demonstrate their common interests and outline how they will ensure a meaningful and close cooperation. Proposals should outline how the proposed approach meets the needs of an efficient, flexible and accessible TEN-T[2] urban node or a city located at an equivalent sized transport corridor which in turn delivers an optimal use of the transport network and the integration of cost-effective solutions for energy supply/storage (with use of renewable energy as much as possible) and recharging networks for transport, and ICT networks for all modes of transport. The work of relevant Horizon 2020-funded VITALNODES[3] could provide a useful starting point.
Proposals should explain how the proposed work will support the public authorities' efforts to implement their Sustainable Urban Mobility Plan in combination with urban (land) planning and development, and infrastructure planning and operations. Attention should be paid to issues related to vulnerable groups of citizens and gender issues. Actions may include research activities, and some preparatory, take up and replication actions, as well as the development of tools to support planning and policy making. Proposals are encouraged to incorporate new approaches to increase the availability and integration of data to support policymaking and business activities in smart and low-emission mobility.
The Commission considers that proposals requesting a contribution from the EU of between EUR 6 to 8 million would allow this specific challenge to be addressed appropriately. Nonetheless, this does not preclude submission and selection of proposals requesting other amounts. Funding for major infrastructure works or electric vehicle fleets is not foreseen. Typically, projects should have duration of 48 months and foresee sufficient time for evaluation, dissemination and exploitation activities.[1] https://ec.europa.eu/transport/themes/infrastructure_en
[2] See Core Network, according to Article 33 a) to d) of the TEN-T Guidelines
[3] https://vitalnodes.eu/