Instruments and effects of integrated mobility concepts—the case of a new housing project in Berlin, Germany

Abstract In new residential neighborhoods, planners often implement mobility concepts consisting of various measures and instruments, which intend to serve as alternatives for private cars and thus limit the negative external effects of motorized transport. However, there is a lack of studies regarding the impacts of such concepts. Accordingly, we analyze which actual effects mobility measures have on transport and land consumption. Investigating a newly developed low-car neighborhood with 361 households in Berlin, Germany, we surveyed the residents (45 survey participants) and simulated transport. Our results show that planning ideal and lived reality differ—new residents bring more cars than expected and planning intentions differ from what residents want and use. Only strong measures may change mobility behavior but better information and mobility management could help to increase awareness, acceptance and use of new mobility options.