An account is given of the MobilPASS field trial in Stuttgart, one of the aims of which is to assess road users' reactions to variable road pricing. The trial involves the southern approach roads to Stuttgart being equipped with automatic toll collection systems and 400 trial participants having an on-board unit installed in their car. A smartcard (MobilPASS) is used as a cashless electronic charge system for road tolls and also for an attractive alternative by public transport. Details of the operation of the system are given and early test results reported. The effects expected of both time shift and the use of alternative routes were observed. Changeover to public transport was also observed. The effects were strongly correlated to trip purpose.
Abstract