The ‘HFTmobilNext’ research-project, led by Stuttgart Technical University of Applied Sciences (HFT Stuttgart), aims to establish a climate-neutral mobility management system for the university. The initiative is part of Stuttgart's strategy to become climate-neutral by 2035, with state institutions such as HFT Stuttgart already aiming to achieve this goal by 2030. Based on previous projects such as ‘HFTmobil’ (2019) and ‘HFTmobil2.0’ (2023), the aim is to consolidate existing measures, implement new innovative approaches and promote lasting changes in behaviour. With around 4,000 students, 370 employees and numerous visitors, the university harbours great potential for sustainable mobility solutions.

• How can the university contribute to climate neutrality through optimised mobility options?
• What digital and organisational measures promote the switch to sustainable modes of transport?
• How can behavioural changes be established in the long term to promote sustainable mobility practices even after graduation? What influence do mobility biographies have on mobility behaviour, and what influencing factors can be identified?

The project is divided into five work packages:

• Digital platform for mobility: development or adaptation of a digital system to promote carpooling, intermodal mobility (public transport, car sharing, bike hire) and environmentally friendly route planning.
• Internal awareness-raising: communication campaigns, workshops and training to promote sustainable transport choices and efficient business travel.
• Co-operation: Collaboration with city and mobility service providers to implement customised solutions and exchange with other universities to use best practices.
• Promoting behavioural change: Raising awareness among students in order to establish sustainable mobility habits beyond their studies.
• Evaluation and public relations: Regular analysis of the measures to evaluate and optimise their effectiveness, as well as publications and events to present the results.
   
  A digital system is being designed, developed and adapted to promote sustainable mobility. User-centred design methods and functional system analysis are being used in this process. Qualitative and quantitative social science methods are being used to promote internal awareness, including the design and implementation of workshops, structured interviews and standardised surveys. Evaluations are carried out using inferential and descriptive methods. The impact of the measures is evaluated using pre-post comparisons and participant feedback. Content is also prepared for specific target groups using communication science concepts. Continuous monitoring and formative and summative evaluations are carried out to assess the project measures.

The research project has the overarching goal of positioning the university as a model institution for corporate mobility management, thereby taking on an active pioneering role in the field of sustainable mobility strategies. The project aims to achieve the following specific objectives:
 

• Quantitative emission reduction: significant reduction in traffic-related CO₂ emissions through increased use of environmentally friendly modes of transport, in particular through intermodal mobility solutions such as public transport, bicycle rental systems, car sharing and carpooling.
• Behavioural modification in the context of mobility: establishment of long-term, climate-friendly mobility habits among university employees and students through targeted awareness-raising measures and behavioural psychology interventions.
• Increased acceptance of innovative mobility services: Promotion of user acceptance and participation through needs-based service design, continuous communication and accompanying evaluation of measures.
• Scientifically sound transfer and role model function: Positioning the university as a best practice example for other educational institutions and organisations through the transparent, high-profile preparation and dissemination of the project results.