On 8 and 9 April 2026, the HAF-ALP-TOUR project team joined the Regional Planning Association of Zurich and Surroundings (RZU) on a technical excursion to explore mobility projects in the Zurich region. The aim was to experience automated mobility services in real-world operation and exchange knowledge with experts from politics, public administration, tourism and transport operations.

A particular highlight was the opportunity to test ride the automated vehicles of the “iamo” pilot project in the Furttal region. The demonstrations showed how confidently the vehicles already handle the challenges of everyday traffic. Discussions with representatives of SBB and the Canton of Zurich highlighted the importance of integrating automated services into the existing public transport system. The key role of municipalities and early public engagement was also emphasized.

For HAF-ALP-TOUR, the findings regarding automated mobility as a complement to public transport were especially valuable. In Alpine tourism regions, such services could help solve first- and last-mile challenges and make public transport travel more attractive for visitors.

The second day of the excursion focused on “MyBuxi”, a successful on-demand mobility service operating in rural regions since 2018. The project demonstrates how flexible transport services can be sustainably established outside urban areas. Discussions revealed that, beyond vehicle technology, organisational, infrastructural and social aspects will be crucial for the future deployment of automated mobility.

The excursion provided valuable insights for the ongoing work within HAF-ALP-TOUR and highlighted the importance of testing and developing new mobility solutions in real-world conditions.