As the Diversify-CCAM project enters the final stages of its data collection phase, project partners across Europe are reporting encouraging progress in gathering valuable insights into user attitudes and experiences related to Connected, Cooperative and Automated Mobility (CCAM). Despite initial delays, the process is now back on track, with thousands of responses collected from diverse communities across multiple pilot sites.
In a previous article, we spoke to Eva Adamovska, Researcher in Human-Centred Transport Systems at project partner CDV to understand the Diversify-CCAM Baseline Mobility Survey in more detail, and we can now share exciting updates of the progress made in recent months, focusing on activities to aid the data collection in our Greek sites of Thessaloniki and Rhodes.
The Baseline Mobility Survey is a key milestone in the Diversify-CCAM project, launched to support the development of more inclusive, fair, and accessible CCAM systems across Europe by integrating geographical, policy-related, and cultural dimensions. True inclusiveness considers all voices, and the survey results will reflect the real diversity across Europe's transport users, rather than just how the average person moves around. Our survey is a cornerstone in our mission to make CCAM truly inclusive and equitable. When designing a survey of this size and intricacy, some initial delays are to be expected, and our experience was no different.
The start of the data collection period faced some delays, primarily due to the complexity of preparing the questionnaires in various languages for multiple target groups in diverse pilot locations. However, despite the initial setbacks, partners rallied together, with the data collection back on track. In most pilot locations, we are successfully reaching the target number of respondents.
As the final stage of the data collection process approaches, the majority of pilot sites have achieved excellent response numbers, with over 6,000 individuals reached across all sites. Early indications reveal that young adults have been the target group most willing to interact with the survey, possibly due to the group’s familiarity with digital tools and active participation in urban mobility.
Once the data collection is complete, the exciting part begins – data analysis! We plan to analyse the data both at the overall project level, across all pilot sites, and at the individual pilot site level. Our detailed analysis will allow us to gain deep insights into how specific diversity aspects influence real user experiences in mobility and their attitudes towards CCAM solutions.
Reflecting on the data collection, Eva Adamovska, who oversaw the process, commented:
“Contributing to the creation of such a complex and multi-dimensional questionnaire and being involved in a process that required close coordination and alignment of needs across different countries and contexts has been a unique and valuable learning experience”
Greece plays a central role in the Diversify-CCAM project through two key pilot sites: Thessaloniki in Northern Greece and Rhodes in the South Aegean region. Project partner CERTH has led data collection efforts in these areas with tailored strategies to engage different population groups.
Thessaloniki: High Participation and a Shift in Perception
In Thessaloniki, over 1,500 participants have taken part so far, demonstrating strong interest across diverse groups including students, commuters, older adults, immigrants, and business travellers. To boost participation, the CERTH team collaborated with the Municipality of Thessaloniki and local transport authority TheTA, deploying an outreach strategy that included:
- Distribution of posters and leaflets in high-traffic areas,
- On-the-spot “guerrilla interviews” near university campuses and transit hubs,
- Offering small incentives, such as €2 coffee vouchers.
Reaching some groups proved to be more challenging, and required the data collection team to be flexible and present in the field. Members of the CERTH team found that being visible and accessible helped to build trust and ensure a diverse respondent base.
Initial findings in Thessaloniki show a persistent reliance on private cars, but also growing interest, especially among young people, in shared and automated mobility solutions. The recent opening of the Thessaloniki metro appears to be positively influencing public transport perceptions.
Rhodes: Engaging Both Tourists and Locals
In Rhodes, the data collection process has gathered around 500 responses so far, with efforts focused on capturing perspectives from both residents and tourists. The survey aimed to understand varying mobility needs and behaviours in a touristic island context.
Collaboration between project partners CERTH and Region of South Aegean enabled both online and in-person outreach. Key tactics included:
- Strategic placement of informational materials,
- Face-to-face interviews in public spaces,
- Promotion through social media platforms.
Challenges did arise, particularly internet connectivity issues during outdoor interviews and time constraints with tourists. However, these issues were mitigated by returning to stable locations and targeting tourists in relaxed settings, such as those waiting for transport or sitting in cafes.
Early data from Rhodes suggests a high dependency on private vehicles among residents, paired with concerns about road quality and public transport efficiency.
With the final responses expected by the end of July, the project will soon transition into an in-depth data analysis phase. This will be followed by a new round of engagement activities, including qualitative research and local feedback loops, where communities will reflect on the data insights and contribute to the co-design of future CCAM solutions.
The richness of the collected data promises to offer a comprehensive picture of how diversity influences mobility choices, and how inclusive CCAM systems can be shaped to better serve Europe's varied populations.
Stay tuned for further exciting updates!
