On the 15th of November 2018, the European Parliament supported the development of intermodal transportation by backing a proposal that will entitle passengers to take bicycles on board all trains. This includes high-speed, long-distance, cross-border and local services. The proposed updates state that all new and refurbished European trains should include a well-indicated space to transport a minimum of eight bicycles.

Currently, Article 5 of the Regulations for Rail Passengers’ Rights and Obligations states:

“Railway undertakings shall enable passengers to bring bicycles on to the train, where appropriate for a fee, if they are easy to handle, if this does not adversely affect the specific rail service, and if the rolling-stock so permits.” (2007)

Consequently, numerous European rail connections have no provisions for the transportation of bicycles.

The Council of Europe has not landed on a final decision and the process is still ongoing. Nonetheless, the Polish Rail Operator already decided to follow the vote of the European Parliament demonstrating that it is a realistic requirement that can be followed in Europe.

Polish Stadler Flirt trains will be equipped with at least 8 spaces for bicycles from now on. This will only slightly decrease the number of passenger seats (354 instead of 360), but will allow cyclists to perfectly combine their trips and benefit from both the speed of trains and the versatility of bicycles. Making maybe the fastest and most flexible way to commute from one city to another.

The Benefits of Intermodality

Intermodality ensures a seamless transition between different modes of transport. ECF believes that the EU needs to take more action to encourage intermodality. ECF lobbies on behalf of its members for legislations at the European level that support intermodality. Consequently, it will continue to follow this file closely. Conditions must be improved to make sustainable, long-distance journeys available to customers.

The environmental and economic benefits remain largely untapped. The combination of bicycles and trains would provide a genuine alternative to private motor vehicles and airplanes. As consumers are increasingly aware of their environmental footprint, railway companies are losing many potential customers. Furthermore, transport emissions have increased by 20% since 1990. Intemodality could immensely contribute to the EU’s ambitious target of reducing Green House Gas (GHG) emissions by 60%, from 1990 levels, by 2050. 

ECF created a good practice guide with seven simple steps that will encourage to encourage railway customers to combine bicycle, train trips and ensure seamless transitions.