ICT-Dependent Life and Its Impacts on Mobility

Abstract

The rapid development of information and communication technology (ICT) is revolutionizing people’s lives in many ways. Among their numerous impacts, ICT solutions allow for more flexibility in individuals’ schedules, and provide new alternatives for the organization of work, social and recreational activities. Several types of relationships are possible between the adoption of ICT and travel behavior, leading to the eventual complementarity with, substitution of, modification of, or neutrality with travel. Modern technologies play an important role in affecting individuals’ long- and medium-term decisions as well as numerous daily choices. The application of information and communication technologies is also behind the introduction of new shared mobility services that were barely imaginable only a few years ago. These services expand the set of travel options available to individuals. The effects of the availability and adoption of these technologies on individual behaviors are still largely unclear. They will likely cause long-lasting impacts on travel patterns, vehicle ownership, and life organization.