Toyota Mobility Foundation and MCube Consulting Launch Joint Research Project on the Future of European Mobility

JUNE 23, 2026

• Joint research project to define the future of European mobility systems, with a focus on rail and multimodality
• Strategic vision by TMF to advance system-level, people-centric mobility beyond individual transport modes
• “Rail plus X” approach positioning rail as the backbone, complemented by integrated mobility solutions
• Scenario-based pathways to 2055 supporting long-term policy and investment decisions
• Strong link between research and impact, combining global perspective with real-world implementation

MUNICH —The Toyota Mobility Foundation (TMF) and MCube Consulting have launched a joint research project to explore and shape the future of mobility systems in Europe, focusing on the long-term role of rail and its integration within a broader multimodal ecosystem.

The initiative, titled “Futures of European Mobility Systems,” will run through May 2027 and develop evidence-based scenarios and transition pathways for how Europe’s mobility system can evolve to address major societal, environmental, and economic challenges.

Driving a System-Level Vision for Mobility

This joint research project reflects TMF’s strategic ambition to move beyond individual transport modes and toward a holistic, system-level understanding of mobility. At its core is the belief that mobility is not just about infrastructure or technology, but a fundamental enabler of societal participation, equity, and quality of life.

By combining global perspective with local expertise, the project aims to define what capabilities future mobility systems must deliver to meet the needs of diverse populations across Europe - from dense urban centres to underserved regions.

Rail as Backbone - Within an Integrated Mobility System

Building on the European Commission’s vision of rail as the backbone of sustainable transport, the research will critically examine how rail can fulfil this role in practice—and where it must be complemented by other mobility solutions.

The project adopts a “rail plus X” perspective, recognizing that future mobility systems will depend on the interaction between rail and a wide range of other modes. This includes addressing key challenges such as first- and last-mile connectivity, regional accessibility, and service gaps in areas where rail alone cannot meet demand.

Through this approach, the project aims to move beyond siloed transport planning and toward integrated, multimodal ecosystems that are resilient, inclusive, and efficient.

From Insight to Action: Evidence-Based Pathways

The research will combine interdisciplinary methods across transport planning, economics, and policy analysis to deliver robust, actionable insights. Key elements include:

• Analysis of societal, technological, economic, and policy drivers shaping mobility
• Expert engagement and structured scenario development
• Quantitative modelling, including cost and sustainability assessments
• Development of scenario-based transition pathways for 2035, 2045, and 2055

The outcome will be a set of clear, evidence-based frameworks to help decision-makers navigate complexity and accelerate the transition to sustainable mobility systems across Europe.

Bridging Research, Innovation, and Impact

The project brings together complementary strengths. TMF contributes its mission-driven approach and commitment to creating a more inclusive mobility society aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

MCube Consulting, rooted in the Munich Cluster for the Future of Mobility, contributes cutting-edge research, interdisciplinary expertise, and strong links to real-world testing and implementation.

Together, the joint research project aims to bridge the gap between vision and practical implementation, ensuring that insights translate into tangible impact for mobility systems and the people who rely on them.

Supporting Europe’s Mobility Transformation

Beyond its analytical outputs, the initiative aims to contribute to a broader European dialogue on mobility transformation. By engaging stakeholders across public authorities, industry, academia, and civil society, the project will help shape a shared vision for a sustainable, inclusive, and future-ready mobility system.

About Toyota Mobility Foundation

Toyota Mobility Foundation (Chair Akio Toyoda) was established in August 2014 by Toyota Motor Corporation (Toyota) to support the development of a more mobile society in which everyone can move freely. The Foundation underscores Toyota’s ongoing commitment to continuous improvement and respect for people. It utilizes Toyota’s expertise and technologies to support strong mobility systems while eliminating disparities in mobility. TMF works in partnership with universities, governments, non-profits, research institutions and other organizations, creating programs that are aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to address mobility issues around the world.  

“TMF aims to create a truly mobile society that will help people live better lives no matter where they are,” said Chair Akio Toyoda. 

About MCube Consulting

MCube Consulting is the consulting and applied research arm of MCube, the Munich Cluster for the Future of Mobility in Metropolitan Regions. Led by the Technical University of Munich, MCube unites more than 80 partners from science, business, public administration, and civil society with the mission to develop mobility innovations that work at every scale. Solutions developed in Munich are intended to serve as a model for growing urban regions globally. MCube Consulting brings this ambition into practice - translating research into evidence-based analysis and strategic recommendations for partners across Europe and beyond.