Energy-efficient urban transport

Urban transport alone consumes nearly 8 % of world energy use, and it is one of the largest contributors in both global and local pollutions. Urban transport energy efficiency is to maximize travel activity with minimal energy consumption through combinations of land-use planning, transport modal share, energy intensity reduction, fuel-type switching, and replacement of information transmission for vehicle travels. Different kinds of cities have different barriers to energy-efficient transport modes. To achieve urban transport efficiency in energy use, government policies are needed to unlock these barriers in the market. Sustainable energy efficiency transport system needs both public and private sector investments. PPPs can greatly facilitate low-carbon and high energy-efficient transportation technologies. Substitution of moving information for moving people can greatly improve energy efficiency in the transport sector. A future efficient transport system in urban area will be in affordable, frequent, and seamless public transport that integrates information technologies, trains, bicycles, taxies, and sidewalks. © Springer-Verlag London 2015.