What is Mobility-as-a-Service?
Have you ever heard of Mobility-as-a-Service? This is not the newest AI robot, but rather a user-friendly mobility platform.
Discover in this blog post what Mobility-as-a-Service (MaaS) is, some examples of well-known MaaS providers, and why it is a good idea to implement MaaS in your organization.
What’s in a name?
Mobility-as-a-Service (MaaS) does not have a single clear definition. What is certain, however, is the following:
- MaaS integrates various modes of transportation on one digital platform (e.g. an app).
- It goes beyond just transportation. MaaS combines different services, ranging from timetables or extra information to ticketing and payment.
- The MaaS provider acts as the bridge between the mobility services and the traveler.
In short, it’s an all-in-one mobility solution. This means you always have all your favorite mobility services at your fingertips. No more waiting in line at the ticket counter to buy a ticket.
For example, you can buy train tickets directly in your Mobility-as-a-Service app, but you can also rent a shared bicycle to cover “the last mile.”
Examples of Mobility-as-a-Service providers
Are you curious about how this translates into practice? Here are some examples of well-known MaaS providers.
1. Whim
Whim was the first international Mobility-as-a-Service app. The app launched in 2017 in Helsinki and then expanded to the rest of Europe. Individuals can easily combine various transportation options with this app: plan routes, book tickets, and pay instantly.
2. MaaS in the KBC Mobile app
You’ve probably heard about it. The KBC Mobile app is one of the most famous banks in Belgium that integrates mobility services into their offerings. For example, with the KBC Mobile app, you can pay for parking or purchase a train ticket.
Due to its numerous integrations and user-friendly features, KBC has consistently ranked among the best banking apps in the world for several years!
They also have a separate offering for freelancers.
3. Olympus app
In addition to apps for individuals, there are also MaaS solutions for businesses. The Olympus app combines more than 30 mobility services into one app. HR or Fleet Managers only need to process one invoice per month.
This allows them to easily manage their mobility budget as well as commuting and business trips or bike leasing options. Employees, on the other hand, have access to a wide range of flexible mobility options. It’s their one-stop-shop for corporate mobility.
Why implement Mobility-as-a-Service in your organization?
Using a Mobility-as-a-Service application has benefits for both you and your employees.
Stand out in the war for talent
Firstly, as a business owner, HR Manager, or Fleet Manager, you have an advantage in the war for talent. Employees are increasingly seeking flexibility in their mode of transportation, and that is understandable.
With a Mobility-as-a-Service platform, you elevate your flexible mobility to a higher and more sustainable level. A digital mobility platform like Olympus integrates more than 30 mobility services in one app.
This way, your employees always have access to the most suitable mode of transportation perfectly tailored to their location and schedule.
Contribute to a sustainable future
Additionally, as a company, you contribute to a greener world. MaaS is not about owning means of transportation but about using them.
By utilizing MaaS solutions, you reduce CO2 emissions and often save costs compared to private transport. Did you know that on a train journey from Kortrijk to Antwerp alone, you can save up to €52.17 per employee compared to using their own car?
Save time on administration
As an employer, implementing MaaS also means saving time on administrative tasks. With Olympus Mobility, for example, you only need to process one comprehensive invoice per month for all mobility expenses. Who doesn’t love less administration ?
