DfT Future of Transport Regulatory Review: Call for Evidence

Recently, the TPS responded to the DfT’s call for evidence in three areas as part of its  future of transport regulatory review: micromobility vehicles (MMV); flexible bus services; and mobility as a service (MaaS). We recommend: MMVs should be regulated in a similar way to electrically-assisted pedal cycles; operators of conventional and flexible bus services should be compelled to work together to deliver cost-effective, comfortable and convenient services; and government can support MaaS development through the delivery of infrastructure and services required by active and sustainable modes.

A summary of the key areas of the response is given below:

Micromobility vehicles

Micromobility vehicles (MMVs) have become mobility options in many cities worldwide. Small MMVs, such as electric scooters and segways, are popular in the UK, even though they are not permitted to be used on roads and pavements.

Most MMVs are not regulated specifically, so are classified as motor vehicles by default.  Existing regulations focus more on the form of the vehicle, than the function.  We believe MMVs should be subject to the same regulations as electrically-assisted pedal cycles (EAPC).  Grouping MMVs with EAPCs recognises they have similar top speeds, provide a similar level of protection to the user and pose similar risks to others, even if they take different forms. 

MMVs will need to be managed when adopted at scale to ensure they both complement existing mobility options and align with an overall strategy to promote active and sustainable transport.  Part of this management includes guidance for safe and considerate storage and operation.

Flexible bus services

Flexible bus services can provide an essential mobility service to rural communities. Therefore, services, especially those deployed to cover underserved regions of a local authority area, should be governed by the same punctuality and reliability rules as regular bus services.  These rules are separate from the requirement to register stops and a timetable.

Importantly, flexible bus services cannot compensate fully the lack of comprehensive bus service coverage in many local authority areas because of deregulation.

Therefore, conventional and flexible bus service operators should be compelled to work, both with each other and with local authorities, to ensure cost-effective, comfortable and convenient bus services are provided throughout their areas.

Mobility as a Service

DfT defines MaaS as the integration of various modes of transport along with information and payment functions into a single mobility service.  Existing transport modes and integrator platforms, such as Expedia, are subject to regulations on the use and storage of personal data and the protection of consumer rights.  We expect MaaS to be a natural evolution of integrator websites such that existing regulations remain fit for purpose.

Transport planning principles which promote active and sustainable modes over the private vehicle are just as important in a MaaS future to ensure walking, cycling and public transport are the most attractive options to satisfy our mobility needs. However, MaaS platforms cannot create either transport modes or infrastructure; nor can MaaS compensate a poor and unattractive public transport offering.  Therefore, central and local government can support MaaS development through the delivery of infrastructure and services required byactive and sustainable modes.

The full response submitted to the DfT can be downloaded here  DfT Transport Regulatory Review: TPS submission