Geofencing to Accelerate Digital Transitions in Cities: Experiences and Findings from the GeoSence Project

Abstract Geofencing is a tool that offers innovative solutions to manage and control traffic, transport, and mobility. The technology enables cities to define digital zones and to create dynamic rules for mobility within these zones. Here we report on three geofencing use cases, their results and lessons learned that were conducted as part of the joint European project GeoSence. In the city of Gothenburg, the performance of a geofencing-based retro-fitted intelligent speed assistance system was tested and evaluated in 20 vehicles of publicly procured transport services to support drivers in complying with new speed regulations around schools. In Munich, geofencing was used to implement and enforce a new station-based parking regulation for shared e-scooters in the city’s old town. Thirdly, in Stockholm preconditions, processes and workflow for continuous changes and updating of the underlying digital geo-data bases were analysed to better understand institutional and practical challenges to implement geofencing-based digital transitions in future. Findings from the use cases and project accompanying surveys are evaluated regarding the general topics of transport management, including issues of data sharing and management, stakeholder involvement, technical & vehicle readiness, feasibility of technical platforms, as well as institutional problems related to governance, policies, resources and the acquiring of necessary competencies.