Electric and autonomous buses. Systems that connect cars with public transportation. Smarter routes thanks to data analysis. These are just a few examples of what we call “next-generation public transportation.” Alexandre Londot, Director of Operations at AGORA, and Marc Hoffmann, Infrastructure Management Director at CFL, explain how the Belval and Metzeschmelz neighborhoods are adopting these solutions and integrating them with micro-mobility features, encouraging alternative forms of transportation such as cycling or scooters.
What are the main goals of “next-generation public transportation”?
Marc Hoffmann, Infrastructure Management Director at The Luxembourg National Railway Company (CFL) : “The main objective is obviously to offer more sustainable, eco-friendly public transportation solutions, aimed at moving large numbers of people while minimizing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. At CFL, we see these types of transportation as the future, as they aim to improve connectivity and reduce road traffic. While our core business remains rail transport, which is naturally eco-friendly, we understand that we have a responsibility to contribute to the development of other solutions in Luxembourg in order to meet the highest standards for next-generation public transportation. Their use complements our train services and expands our overall offering.”
Alexandre Londot, Director of Operations, AGORA : “Urban planning for the new Metzeschmelz district is centered around the concept of a low-car neighborhood, with ‘mobility hubs’ designed to facilitate access to various modes of transportation. We’re looking at a parking space ratio of 0.5 per housing unit, compared to the usual 1.5, which requires alternative solutions. Next-generation public transportation is central to the strategy, with electric buses, but also mechanisms that promote car-sharing, with a certain percentage of the fleet being electric or hybrid vehicles. In recent years, CFL has developed ‘Flex,’ an excellent car-sharing service that complements public transportation, and we have a productive dialogue on this. We have a wide range of solutions at our disposal.”
CFL and AGORA are collaborating on an ambitious autonomous shuttle project. Can you tell us more?
Marc Hoffmann : “Yes, we have a pilot project currently running, especially in Belval. These AI-powered shuttles operate without a driver, although an operator is present to intervene if necessary. At the moment, they run on predefined routes with fixed stops, but in the future, they will be integrated into a mobile app for easier access. Naturally, these are electric vehicles. Rolling out this service presents significant challenges, particularly when it comes to integrating with existing traffic and accounting for non-compliant behavior from some road users. But the project shows great potential! Autonomous driving greatly enhances service regularity, which has a positive impact on punctuality and overall network efficiency. The vehicle we’re currently testing can reach speeds of up to 30 km/h, whereas earlier pilot projects were limited to just 10 km/h. Technology is moving fast! “
Next-generation transportation works best when combined with micro-mobility. What does that mean?
Alexandre Londot: “Micro-mobility refers to the lightest, most eco-friendly forms of transport, such as bicycles, scooters, electric mopeds, or skateboards. These ‘gentle’ transport methods are something that urban planning in our new districts must promote. Public transport networks are now designed to integrate these options, for example by placing bike-sharing or scooter-sharing stations near tram and bus stops. In Metzeschmelz, the mobility hubs will also offer bike rental services, repair workshops, and secure bike parking (bike boxes).”
Marc Hoffmann : “One of our main ideas is to offer cargo bike rentals, enabling urban cyclists to transport goods. This soft mobility solution is somewhere between a bike and a car: it’s environmentally friendly, while still offering storage space comparable to a car. We’re still evaluating whether this idea is feasible, and it certainly won’t be ideal for all of Luxembourg, but it’s an exciting prospect for specific areas. We also aim to integrate all micro-mobility services into a single mobile app, allowing users to manage everything from car-sharing, to bike boxes, parking, and cargo bikes—all in one place.”
What economic model is envisioned to implement and sustain these solutions?
Alexandre Londot : “This is one of the big questions we’re currently exploring. While substantial public funding should, rightfully, be invested in such projects, it’s also our responsibility to ensure operational efficiency and drive maximum service usage. Building the infrastructure and potentially operating it represent significant costs. Our discussions with CFL on this topic have been productive, with a focus on planning the most intermodal and interoperable solutions possible. And this applies not just at the district level, but on a national scale as well.”
Urban gardens, smart cities, eco-neighbourhoods or temporary occupation of urban space, Through the voice of experts, “Tell me more! ” is a series that explores new trends.
