Mobility - Microbuses and E-Rikshas start in Munchen Altstadt
Goals in Munich's Old Town are now easier to reach for visitors and residents. Microbuses and E-Rickshas, which are part of a test project named "Altstadtmobil," are available until autumn.
The city aims to help especially older and disabled people with this project. The microbuses have six seating places and are wheelchair accessible, just like five of the E-Rickshas. The vehicles are part of Munich's public transportation system, according to the city.
The microbus route partially runs through the pedestrian zone. They operate on a ten-minute interval from Wednesday to Saturday between 8:00 am and 10:00 pm, connecting Marienplatz, Frauenkirche, Sendlinger Tor, Rindermarkt, Tal, and Isartor. The electric rickshas are available daily from 7:00 am to 12:00 midnight on call. They wait at Stachus and Odeonsplatz for customers within the Old Town ring. During the test phase until autumn, using the new transportation means is free.
The Mobility Committee of the City Council decided on the test of electric minibuses and E-Rickshas in February. Despite the good connection to public transport, the ways within the Old Town are often too long for older and disabled people, especially when they want to visit multiple goals, according to the resolution. Furthermore, an investigation revealed that many of them avoided shopping and staying in the Old Town or limited their visits to the essentials due to the long distances.
The project "Altstadtmobil" involves the use of microbuses and E-Rickshas in Munich, originally proposed by the Mobility Committee of the City Council in February. These sustainable transportation options are also available in neighboring Bavarian towns, promoting mobility within the region.
The test project is particularly beneficial for residents and visitors who need assistance, such as older individuals and individuals with disabilities, as they navigate the traffic of Munich's Old Town. The commune of Germany has shown commitment to improving accessibility and enhancing the overall experience within its historic town center.
The free transportation service, sponsored by the commune of Munich, allows commuters to easily visit prominent landmarks like Marienplatz, Frauenkirche, and Isartor, reducing the reliance on personal vehicles within the Old Town and easing traffic congestion.
