DfT launches consultation on potential MaaS code of practice
The Department for Transport (DfT) has launched its third consultation on a planned mobility as a service (MaaS) code of practice.
Defining MaaS as “the integration of various modes of transport along with information and payment functions into a single mobility service”, DfT says that in response to the increasing availability of data and digital capability in transport, “we are seeing new business models emerge that package different modes and services together into one application or platform to make the planning and payment of trips easier for consumers.”
And, suggests DfT, taking a voluntary approach through a code of practice could enable Government to support MaaS as it grows without “introducing regulations at a time that could stifle innovation”. A code of practice, it adds, would also “provide an opportunity to gather further evidence in a structured manner to understand where regulation might need to be brought forward in the future.”
The work builds on a previous calls for evidence in 2019 and 2020 which asked respondents for their views on the usefulness of a MaaS code of practice. The majority of respondents at the time, reports DfT, were in favour of a code that could help “provide clarity by highlighting the roles and responsibilities of various actors in the MaaS ecosystem, provide guidance on central government objectives and highlight areas of best practice for MaaS solutions.”
DfT suggests that a MaaS code of practice could:
provide guidelines for new entrants to the market and incumbent MaaS platform providers to aid navigation around the relevant legislation
support new businesses in the MaaS industry to make decisions in line with government goals
encourage MaaS platform providers to include carbon data for each route offered, helping consumers choose lower carbon journeys
provide best practice examples of MaaS solutions
assist local authorities in developing or considering MaaS platforms to operate in their areas, developing local solutions that build on nationally agreed standards
The consultation closes on 3 May 2022.