Conceptual Framework for Equitable Integration of Emerging Mobility Services and Public Transit

The current mobility revolution in cities is reshaping our travel patterns due to digital technology advancements. This revolution has increased the interest in emerging mobility services (EMS), including ridesharing, shared micromobility, and autonomous vehicles. The EMS are not merely supplementary; they are disrupting the established public transit (PT) systems, offering enhanced flexibility, and altering the urban mobility landscape. For instance, the interaction between ride-sourcing and PT ranges from collaboration to competition. Ride-sourcing serves as a feeder to major PT lines, improving accessibility, yet it also competes by attracting riders away from PT for the primary leg of their journey. On the other hand, introducing EMS in certain urban areas while scaling back PT could disadvantage individuals who are unable to use these new services, underlining the challenge of maintaining equitable access in an evolving mobility ecosystem. Thus, there is a knowledge gap on how to integrate the two services from methodological perspectives. This study aims to fill this gap by conducting a bibliometric analysis and developing a conceptual framework to facilitate the strategic-level integration of EMS with PT, as well as exploring the consequences and uncertainties of such integration. The developed comprehensive conceptual framework emphasizes equity in urban mobility, with critical dimensions of spatial planning, stakeholder engagement, information systems, and vehicle technologies. Our investigation reveals that equitable integrated urban mobility hinges on ensuring each component synergistically contributes to the mobility ecosystem. The study also provides strategies for adaptive methodological solutions that cater to the diverse needs of mobility users, including the most vulnerable population groups.