Cabinet overhauls regional transit with autonomous buses
Dutch State Secretary Annet Bertram unveiled plans to integrate regional public transit with specialised shared vehicles and test self-driving buses.
Dutch State Secretary Annet Bertram unveiled plans to integrate regional public transit with specialised shared vehicles and test self-driving buses.
Why it matters: Regional transit faces driver shortages and falling revenue, while 1,100 bus stops disappeared over the past six years, mostly across Drenthe and Groningen.
The plan:
- Scheduled services will combine with student transport and social care vehicles through coordinated mobility centres.
- The ministry will launch three trials with autonomous buses to counter personnel deficits and serve city outskirts.
- Officials will examine an affordable transit ticket alongside regional customisation to simplify fragmented government subsidies.
- Employers and public sector staff will be urged to avoid rush hours and use bicycles.
Current progress: Seven areas already test public mobility solutions, including all-week on-demand minivans in Zeeland and dual-purpose shuttles in Drechtsteden that serve business parks and social transport.
What is next: Bertram will detail later this month how the cabinet will allocate an annual €300 million investment earmarked for regional accessibility.
