On-demand public transportation must improve service accessibility, bridge the gap between supply and demand, and serve as a catalyst for sustainable mobility. Therefore, the regulatory model needs to be rethought in light of new market and technological dynamics, so that users can benefit from a more effective, efficient, and sustainable mobility service. These are some of the proposals outlined in the new study by the Policy Observatory of the Luiss School of Government, presented today at the States General of Mobility. The aim is to gather suggestions and requests from key players in the sector.

The study, titled “New Mobility Options: Innovation and Regulation,” conducted by the Luiss SoG Observatory, specifically recommends developing an updated regulatory framework that expands mobility options, reduces the number of cars in the area to support the ecological transition, and considers the guidance from European case law on the subject. The study also suggests using data to guide supply and demand, listening to stakeholders, and implementing compensatory measures for existing market players. 

As Professor Domenico Lombardi, Director of the Luiss Policy Observatory, explained: “By convening the States General of Mobility, we aim to address the need for a new regulatory framework for the non-scheduled public transport sector. The current framework met market needs up until a decade ago, but it now faces challenges posed by a diverse user base, significant technological advancements, and the imperative to contribute to the ecological transition. Therefore, we need to build a new regulatory model for local public transportation that reflects the current market reality, addresses new protection needs, and ensures the sector’s green sustainability.”

Speakers at the “Stati Generali della Mobilità” included: Giovanni Orsina, Director of the Luiss School of Government; Domenico Lombardi, Director of the Luiss Policy Observatory; Guido Improta, Secretary General of the Transport Regulatory Authority (ART); Veronica Nicotra, Secretary General of the National Association of Italian Municipalities (ANCI); Fabrizio Ghera, Councilor for Mobility and Transport of the Lazio Region; Cesare Pozzi, Professor of Political Economy at Luiss; and Lorenzo Pireddu, General Manager of Uber Italy.