RMV and NVV commemorate their anniversary, outlining strategies to foster future expansion - RMV and NVV commemorate anniversary, strategize for future expansion
In Hesse, Germany, public transportation (PT) has come a long way since the introduction of the Germany Ticket. The founding of transport associations, such as the Rhein-Main Verkehrsverbund (RMV) and Nordhessischer Verkehrsverbund (NVV) in 1995, transformed the PT landscape by streamlining fares, schedules, and enhancing ridership.
When the RMV was first established, its motto was "one timetable, one ticket, one fare." This move revolutionized PT accessibility, replicating the principles that are now nationwide with the Germany Ticket. Thirty years ago, a surge in PT usage occurred due to the newfound ease of travel.
Last year, the RMV reached a record number of 825 million passengers, despite ongoing issues with staff shortages and construction, as well as the rise in remote work. The association expects this trend to continue.
The current construction measures in the RMV area have led to delays and cancellations in train traffic. However, RMV Managing Director Knut Ringat anticipates improvements this year as Deutsche Bahn strengthens training and modernizes control centers.
Tackling criticism of staff shortages in control centers, Ringat expects progress this year. To order additional trains following the expansion, RMV requires increased funding from federal and state governments due to cost increases and a lack of further savings opportunities.
Improving rural areas' mobility is essential for the RMV. They rely on on-demand traffic, with vehicles scheduled to become autonomous in pilot projects with Deutsche Bahn in Darmstadt and Offenbach district.
The North Hessian Transport Association (NVV) based in Kassel focuses on enhancing PT offerings in rural areas, recognizing the less urbanized nature of the region. They have expanded services, especially in bus traffic, with the "Every village – Every hour" initiative. This goal is almost achieved everywhere.
Better funding from federal and state governments is necessary for further expansion to offer both urban and rural areas a reliable and effective PT system. Despite the current infrastructure constraints, the NVV looks forward to potential improvements from the investment program under discussion by the new federal government.
To celebrate their 30th anniversary, the RMV is organizing events, such as a party in Frankfurt's Römer, and passenger campaigns throughout the summer. The NVV will launch a "You're the Best" campaign and major celebration in September.
In terms of innovations and improvements, PT operators in Hesse are focusing on electrification and autonomous driving to reduce emissions and enhance accessibility and efficiency. They are also making infrastructure upgrades and relying on partnerships with technology providers and research institutions to stay ahead in addressing the growing demands of PT users.
- In an effort to boost vocational training opportunities, the RMV has partnered with several technology providers and research institutions to train staff in electrification and autonomous driving technologies, aiming to stay competitive in the PT industry.
- To ensure financial sustainability and fund future expansion plans, the RMV is advocating for increased funding from both federal and state governments, recognizing the need for improvements in rural areas' mobility and the electrification of PT systems as part of the larger national finance and transportation landscape.
