Challenges in sustainable urban mobility development: Insights from literature and Belgian stakeholder interviews.

Details

Supervisors

Gailly, Benoît

Faculty

Louvain School of Management

Degree label

Master [120] : ingénieur de gestion, à finalité spécialisée

Abstract

This master's thesis investigates the challenges involved in promoting sustainable urban mobility, with a particular focus on the adoption of alternatives to internal combustion engine (ICE) cars in urban environments. By conducting a comprehensive review of scientific literature and interviewing key stakeholders in the Belgian sustainable mobility sector, this research identifies and categorises critical challenges across multiple dimensions. The study addresses consumer behaviour, examining resistance to change, preferences, and purchasing criteria. It also explores the regulatory and political landscape in Belgium, highlighting the impact of existing policies and infrastructure on sustainable mobility. Furthermore, the research delves into the complexities faced by the mobility industry, including the needs and interactions of various stakeholders. In addition to these primary challenges, the thesis uncovers a set of less obvious obstacles. These include the entrenched competition from the ICE car, which have benefited from decades of development, investment, and profitability. The study also identifies market uncertainty, largely driven by dependence on fluctuating regulations, and the inherent complexity of the industry due to the involvement of numerous stakeholders in the innovation process. The thesis concludes with practical recommendations aimed at advancing sustainable urban mobility. It underscores the importance of coordinated stakeholder efforts, strategic investments in infrastructure, and the implementation of policies that foster behavioural change and drive innovation.