Proposal for Future Collaboration: Expanding Smart Mobility Solutions for Rural Transport Optimisation in the Orkney Islands
HITRANS is inviting academic partners to collaborate on a groundbreaking research project aimed at understanding and developing mini mobility hubs on the Orkney Islands, specifically in Westray, Eday, Stronsay, and Rousay.
This proposal is part of HITRANS’ involvement in a pilot Simplified Rural Socio-Ecological Systems (SIMSES), supported by the Horizon Europe RURALITIES project. The initiative seeks to extend smart mobility solutions to enhance rural and island transport systems across Scotland.
Our Proposal for Future Collaboration
This collaboration will focus on leveraging advanced technology and data-driven solutions to optimise transportation networks, improve sustainability, and support policy development for rural communities. The project will explore the potential for mini mobility hubs in the Orkney Islands, promoting integration and flexibility in local transportation. Data gathered through the project will enable intelligent planning of pilot facilities.
Key Research Areas
– Smart Data Platform Enhancement: We will expand the smart data system as a partnership development between the Academic Institute and HITRANS, creating a real-time data integration platform that includes public transport systems, weather data, and more. This will allow for dynamic optimisation of transport resources and ensure rural communities have access to the services they need, when they need them.
– AI-Powered Decision Support Tools: By integrating machine learning and AI, we will forecast demand, optimise transport routes, and advise on the best use of resources. These tools will enable local authorities to make data-driven decisions that increase efficiency, lower costs, and improve service quality.
– Automated Transport & Mobility as a Service (MaaS): We will investigate automated transport solutions and explore the integration of MaaS systems to create a seamless user experience for residents.
– Scalable Deployment:The solution will be designed to scale, enabling its adoption in other rural and island communities across Scotland.
Funding and Budget
HITRANS has allocated a budget of up to £30,000 to support this partnership. It is expected that this funding will be matched by the academic institute, ensuring a strong, collaborative approach to the research and development efforts.
Why Partner with HITRANS?
HITRANS is involved in the Horizon Europe RURALITIES project, which focuses on rural transport and sustainability. This collaboration provides an excellent opportunity to contribute to the development of smart mobility solutions in rural communities as part of the pilot SIMSES. By partnering with us, academic institutions can play a key role in pioneering research that will transform transport systems in rural Scotland and beyond. Together, we can create sustainable, efficient, and accessible transport networks that improve the quality of life for rural residents.
We invite academic bodies to join us in this exciting initiative to redefine the future of transport on the Orkney Islands. Together, we can lead the way in smart mobility for rural and island communities.
For more information about the Horizon Europe RURALITIES project, visit [www.ruralities-project.eu](https://www.ruralities-project.eu).
Respond to Partnership Call
HITRANS is pleased to invite academic institutions to submit partnership proposals for an exciting research collaboration focused on developing mini mobility hubs across the Orkney Islands. This initiative, part of HITRANS’ involvement in the Horizon Europe RURALITIES project, aims to leverage cutting-edge technology and data-driven solutions to enhance rural transport systems. We are seeking partners to join us in exploring smart data platforms, AI-powered decision support tools, automated transport, and scalable Mobility as a Service (MaaS) solutions for the islands of Westray, Eday, Stronsay, and Rousay. Proposals should be submitted in writing, not exceeding 1500 words, and must include confirmation of the respondent’s match funding in principle. The deadline for submission is 28 March 2025, at 12:00. We look forward to receiving your proposals and working together to shape the future of smart mobility in rural Scotland.
Please send proposals by email to ranald.robertson@hitrans.org.uk