Integration Gaps and Dilemmas in Mobility Platforms: An Empirical Study in Norway

Digital Platforms, including web-based and smartphone applications, are essential drivers of digital transition and sustainability for smart city development. The mobility sector is a critical sector where sustainability can be achieved through digital transformation. This study explores the role of digital mobility platforms in driving sustainable transport in smart cities. The study utilized a qualitative approach through an empirical investigation of 27 mobility platforms in Norway. A thematic analysis was done where information from the platform usage and ownerships were extracted from the identified platforms' smartphone applications and web counterparts. Many platforms featured CO2 emission savings, ride-sharing information, integration of electric vehicles, personalized user incentives, and dynamic pricing that can contribute to sustainable travel outcomes. The analysis highlights three primary empirical directions for the platforms: 1. Integration of multimodal transport, 2. Integration of Innovative services and 3. Integration of sustainability dimensions. The results are discussed and contrasted with the theoretical paradigm, and gaps between theoretical and empirical findings are shown. Three axes of dilemmas are drawn: user retention, user-friendliness, and abrupt change. This research has implications for practitioners, planners, and policymakers in making better decisions regarding integrating urban mobility platforms for smart cities. The research findings can be used to design and develop mobility platforms and associated policies.