Padua

The role of innovation in urban logistics is particularly highlighted within the range of significant policies to be developed by the forthcoming SUMP of Padova area. Several test urban areas is envisaged for last-mile logistics. Innovative vehicles based on cutting-edge technologies will be deployed and tested within SPROUT to carry both passengers and freight. The cargo hitching concept will be applied to an advanced smart transportation system – called “Next” – based on swarms of (electric) modular self-driving pods. Each module can join and detach with other modules on standard city roads. When joined, a bus-like vehicle is created by modules. The modules can move autonomously on regular roads, join themselves and detach even when in motion. Modules carrying passengers and goods are combined on the basis of estimated flows, which are calculated in real-time by algorithms considering different final destinations by users and freight.

Pilot activities will consist of:

• Identifying requirements and tools for data collection and analysis supporting the regulatory framework leading to local mobility plans, with a view to selected innovative emerging technologies and disruptive business models;
• Identifying opportunities for the selected emerging technologies and disruptive business models. Policy implications of identified solutions will be assessed as they lead to the new regulatory framework. A first stage small-scale pilot will be developed.
• Assessing overall combined impacts of proposed policy solutions and tools at local level on the requirements of the new regulatory framework leading to the forthcoming SUMP;
• Using the results of logistics solutions and mobility tools deployment to produce an integrated and coordinated regulatory framework, which will include various policy options in a unified and harmonized framework;
• Performing capacity-building initiatives focusing on innovative mobility solutions.