Shaping mobility with hvv switch

Hamburger Hochbahn AG, an innovative public transport company in Hamburg, was in need of developing a pioneering mobility solution to meet the growing demand for sustainable transport options in the city. In close collaboration with Hochbahn, we developed the hvv switch app, a multimodal platform that seamlessly integrates various mobility services and promotes the transition from private cars to shared transport modes. By simplifying access to public transit, car-sharing, and other options, the hvv switch app significantly contributes to improving Hamburg's transport system and supports the city's goal of creating a sustainable and efficient infrastructure. 

The city of Hamburg is growing, and the need for an innovative mobility solution is increasing. We have been working with Hamburger Hochbahn since 2019 to develop a pioneering mobility solution that is considered a European flagship project in urban transport. 

The hvv switch project was launched as part of the Hamburg Takt initiative. It aims to significantly improve access to public transport in the city and reduce CO2 emissions by encouraging a shift to more sustainable forms of transportation, like public transport, biking, and walking. 

Hamburger Hochbahn AG pursued a far-reaching vision beyond a simple bus and train app. The goal was to create a platform that seamlessly integrates various sharing providers and allows users to book and pay for these services through a single platform. Moreover, they wanted to enhance the platform with advanced features, such as mobility budgets, smart ticketing systems, and real-time parking availability information. Another objective was to connect the app to Google Maps directly. 

One of the biggest challenges was creating an integration that allows users to access various mobility services with just one account, using a standardised payment and billing method. 

Another key concern was bundling different mobility services into a single platform in order to establish the app as a central access point for public transport, shared mobility offers, and other transport forms. This required extensive coordination and integration of various IT systems from both established and new providers. 

Ultimately, the aim was to make the application attractive to users and provide an incentive to switch from individual vehicles to shared transport options. The app seeks to meet the high expectations of modern users through simple ticketing, seamless reservation processes, and up-to-date information delivery.  

Our approach was based on close collaboration within a joint digital unit, where we combined our expertise in digital strategy with Hochbahn's comprehensive understanding of urban mobility. Following a thorough analysis and optimisation phase, the focus was on designing an intuitive user interface and user experience. Through a cyclic, feedback-driven process, we developed and refined prototypes to ensure a user-centred end product. The use of data analytics guided our decisions and enabled us to make adjustments through continuous delivery. We integrated ongoing quality assurance into the project to ensure the highest standards. 

In cooperation with Hamburger Hochbahn, we developed the hvv switch app. This app combines a variety of transport services, thereby providing simplified access to public transit, car sharing, e-scooter rentals, and MOIA ride-pooling services. The app includes a wide range of hvv tickets, including the Deutschland ticket, single, and weekly tickets. Users of the hvv switch app can conveniently rent vehicles from SIXT, SHARE NOW, or MILES and book e-scooters from TIER or Voi, all using a unified registration and payment system, significantly simplifying the process. 
 

The Google Maps integration also allows users to find and purchase the appropriate hvv ticket directly when searching for addresses in Hamburg. This centralises all available mobility options in one place. With the launch of the hvv switch app, we have created a multifunctional mobility tool that significantly contributes to aligning Hamburg with a more sustainable, efficient, and user-oriented local transport system. It also goes hand in hand with environmental and urban development goals. As a result, the hvv-switch project has taken a leading role within the "National Platform Future of Mobility" and has received governmental support and recognition. 

The introduction of the switch platform has significantly improved Hamburg's transport network, making sustainable travel alternatives more accessible and attractive for both residents and visitors of the city. The hvv switch app has facilitated many people's transition from private vehicles to shared mobility solutions by merging public and private mobility services into a single interface. In line with the goals of sustainability efforts, the project has enhanced the quality of life in urban areas.