Mobility as a Service (MaaS) is transforming how people access transportation by shifting the focus from private vehicle ownership to shared, on-demand mobility solutions. This paradigm shift is rooted in the integration of multiple transportation modes—such as ride-hailing, car-sharing, bike-sharing, and public transit—into a seamless digital platform. With the rise of urbanisation, congestion, and environmental concerns, MaaS is becoming a cornerstone of smart cities and sustainable transportation.
The growth of MaaS is powered by advancements in connectivity, data analytics, and real-time decision-making. These technologies allow users to plan, book, and pay for a variety of mobility services through a single interface, simplifying the travel experience. According to reports, the global MaaS market is expected to reach $1698.14 billion by 2032, driven by urbanisation, increasing smartphone penetration, and changing consumer preferences toward flexibility and sustainability.
The Internet of Things (IoT) plays a pivotal role in enabling MaaS by linking vehicles, users, and infrastructure in real-time. IoT devices and sensors embedded in vehicles, public transportation systems, and even street infrastructure allow the exchange of data needed for efficient, safe, and connected transportation services.
Here’s how IoT drives the success of shared mobility:
A notable example of IoT-driven MaaS innovation is CoMotion, a shared mobility platform that integrates various forms of transportation for businesses and users. CoMotion aims to create a more connected, accessible, and sustainable urban transportation ecosystem. Leveraging IoT, CoMotion ensures efficient fleet operations, optimising routes and vehicle usage through data-driven insights.
CoMotion enables businesses to reduce transportation costs and improve employee mobility, offering features such as on-demand ride-sharing services, electric vehicle integration, and smart fleet management. By employing IoT technology, they provide their users with a seamless, efficient, and flexible mobility experience.
Through its use of IoT, CoMotion enhances vehicle management, ensuring that maintenance schedules are met, and vehicles remain in top condition for users. The platform collects real-time data from its fleets, analysing it to predict demand, track performance, and improve overall service efficiency.
As MaaS continues to grow, IoT will play an even more integral role in shaping the future of shared mobility. The introduction of 5G networks, advancements in autonomous vehicles, and further development of artificial intelligence will only enhance the capabilities of IoT in the transportation sector. These innovations will lead to smarter, greener, and more user-centric transportation systems, fostering a world where mobility is no longer limited by ownership but accessible to all through shared, connected networks.
By integrating IoT into every layer of mobility services, companies like CoMotion are pioneering a new era of smart, shared transportation that reduces urban congestion, minimises environmental impact, and offers users the flexibility they need. Read the case study.