News
22/01/2025

Member in the Spotlight: Catalonia

Catalonia is setting an ambitious course for the future of mobility, embracing sustainability, inclusivity, and innovation to improve connectivity across the region.

From electrification to implementing tailored mobility solutions, the Government of Catalonia is driving initiatives that prioritise environmental responsibility, community needs, and accessibility for all. To gain insights into Catalonia’s mobility transformation, POLIS spoke with Susi López, General Director of Transport and Mobility of the Government of Catalonia, who shared her perspectives on the region’s vision, the challenges of rapid growth, and the role of international collaboration in shaping a sustainable future for urban mobility.

Interview with Susi López, General Director of Transport and Mobility of the Government of Catalonia, elaborated by Jonathan De Vriendt.


POLIS: Catalonia has made impressive strides in expanding its public transport network, from electrifying bus fleets to adding new lines. How has this strengthened regional connectivity and what future enhancements are planned to support this network’s growth?

Catalonia has made significant progress in expanding its public transport network to create a more sustainable, efficient, and accessible system. A cornerstone of this effort is the Mobility Master Plans (pdMs), which guide the integration of urban, suburban, and rural transport. These plans are informed by ongoing mobility surveys, such as those conducted in Pirineu and Aran, ensuring they align with the region’s Mobility Law and focus on sustainability and citizen-centred solutions.

Efforts include the electrification of bus fleets, the extension of the Exprés.cat network, and the introduction of on-demand services like Clic.cat. By enhancing multimodal integration, Catalonia ensures seamless transfers across buses, trains, and other modes of transport. Looking ahead, real-time travel updates and further expansion of sustainable options will help the network meet growing demand while reducing emissions and improving accessibility.


POLIS: Cross-border connectivity with Occitania has become a key element of Catalonia’s mobility strategy. Through the ConnECT project, what challenges and opportunities have emerged in building seamless transport corridors between Catalonia and southern France?

The ConnECT project, funded by the EU’s POCTEFA programme, has been instrumental in enhancing cross-border mobility in the Catalan–French border region. It has improved interurban bus services, harmonised schedules, and facilitated access to essential services like healthcare, notably through direct connections to the Hospital of Cerdanya.

However, challenges such as regulatory complexities in France and disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic have highlighted areas for improvement. Despite these obstacles, the project has strengthened collaboration between public administrations and laid the groundwork for a multimodal network integrating buses and trains. These efforts reduce car dependence, support environmental sustainability, and foster greater regional cohesion.


POLIS: With 233 on-demand lines serving hundreds of low-density areas, Catalonia leads in customised mobility solutions. Could you share how these services, like the Clic.cat in Garrigues, have evolved and what impact they have had on accessibility for residents in these regions?

On-demand services are transforming rural mobility, cutting travel distances by 60% and ensuring accessibility for low-density communities. Credit: Generalitat de Catalunya

On-demand transport services like Clic.cat have transformed mobility in low-density areas by offering flexible and efficient alternatives to traditional fixed-route buses. Initially designed to address rural mobility challenges, these services have adapted to the specific needs of smaller communities, often with populations between 1,000 and 1,500 residents.

By enabling route optimisation, these services reduce travel distances by up to 60%, making them more cost-effective and environmentally sustainable. Residents can book rides through digital platforms or traditional methods, ensuring accessibility for all, including those less familiar with technology. Engagement with local councils and users through channels like WhatsApp has allowed these services to remain responsive to changing demands, fostering strong community ownership and satisfaction.


POLIS: Catalonia has been proactive in addressing safety, especially around sexual harassment. How is GenCat utilising data to guide its safety measures, and what progress has been made through the new five-point action plan?

Safety is a top priority for Catalonia, particularly in addressing gender-based violence on public transport. Through the Strategic Plan for Mobility and Gender (PEMG), data-driven initiatives are shaping effective safety measures. These include systems to monitor and analyse incidents, alongside qualitative feedback from users and stakeholders.

Key initiatives include audits and exploratory walks to evaluate transport spaces from a gender-sensitive perspective, focusing on factors like lighting and visibility. The upcoming "Purple Button" tool will enable real-time reporting of harassment via transport apps, ensuring swift responses and support for affected users. These efforts are complemented by enhanced reporting mechanisms, staff training programmes, and close collaboration with local stakeholders to build trust and inclusivity across the transport network.


POLIS: Tourism flows heavily influence Catalonia’s transport demands. With additional cross-border and regional lines aimed at easing tourist travel, what strategies are in place to support sustainable tourism while meeting local residents’ needs?

Sustainable tourism is a key focus for Catalonia, with innovative projects like the Last Mile Project promoting eco-friendly mobility in tourist areas. In the Pyrenees, enhanced public transport to Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici National Park offers a viable alternative to private cars. Extended bus and cable car schedules, along with multimodal options such as free bicycle transport on buses, have significantly reduced emissions and congestion.

Real-time parking displays in towns like Espot inform visitors about space availability, encouraging the use of public transport while easing traffic bottlenecks. These measures not only improve the visitor experience but also support local communities by balancing tourism demands with sustainable practices.

Eco-friendly mobility projects balance tourism demands with sustainability, reducing emissions and congestion. Credit: Generalitat de Catalunya

POLIS: As a member of POLIS’ Regions working group, Catalonia has shared insights on public-private partnerships. Could you describe some successful collaborations that have improved commuter travel options or helped innovate new solutions?

Catalonia’s concessional interurban bus network exemplifies successful public-private collaboration. With 856 lines and 54 operators, this system ensures extensive coverage and reliable service quality, connecting remote areas and supporting regional development.

Another example is the Clic.cat service, which leverages existing apps to manage bookings rather than developing a dedicated platform. This approach minimises costs while efficiently addressing commuter needs, showcasing how innovation and collaboration can drive impactful solutions.


POLIS: Catalonia has embraced electrification within its bus services. Could you elaborate on the challenges faced and any specific environmental or operational benefits observed so far?

Catalonia’s electrification efforts focus on three areas: feeder routes to rail networks, demand-responsive electric buses, and suburban lines. Subsidies and new charging infrastructure have supported operators in transitioning to electric fleets, enabling seamless integration into the public transport network.

Challenges include the need for extensive infrastructure, specialised training for maintenance staff, and operational adjustments to accommodate charging schedules. Despite these hurdles, the benefits are substantial. For instance, one electric line has reduced annual CO2 emissions by 800 tonnes, equivalent to the carbon absorption of 183,000 trees. This transition improves air quality, reduces noise pollution, and sets a benchmark for sustainable urban mobility.


POLIS: Inclusivity in transport services is a high priority for the region. How is Catalonia working to create transit solutions that cater to diverse demographic groups, particularly in areas with fewer options or limited accessibility?

On-demand services like Clic.cat at modern bus stations ensure rural accessibility, connecting diverse communities across Catalonia. Credit: Generalitat de Catalunya

Inclusivity remains at the heart of Catalonia’s mobility strategy. On-demand services like Clic.cat cater to rural areas, ensuring accessibility for elderly individuals, people with disabilities, and those in low-density regions. By offering digital and traditional booking options, these services break down barriers and meet the needs of diverse user groups.

Collaboration with local councils and regular service assessments ensure that transport solutions remain aligned with community needs, fostering engagement and ownership. These efforts contribute to a more inclusive and equitable mobility system.


POLIS: Catalonia has a strong cultural identity and unique landscape. How does the region ensure that its mobility initiatives support both cultural preservation and sustainable urban and rural development?

Catalonia’s mobility initiatives are carefully designed to balance cultural preservation with sustainable development. Public transport plays a pivotal role in connecting rural and urban areas, supporting economic development, and addressing depopulation in low-density regions.

Collaboration with local administrations is central to this approach. By working closely with regional and local authorities, mobility services are tailored to respect the region’s cultural heritage and maintain its unique landscape. Studies conducted in partnership with communities help identify mobility challenges while preserving local traditions and lifestyles. This ensures that mobility solutions not only meet transport needs but also support the cultural and environmental integrity of the region.


POLIS: How does Catalonia improve connectivity between its medium-sized cities and regional capitals?

The introduction of the Exprés.cat network in 2012 marked a turning point for connectivity between medium-sized cities and regional capitals in Catalonia. This express intercity bus service currently operates 43 lines, representing 45% of regional demand, with an average of 35 passengers per trip. The network strategically connects all four provincial capitals—Barcelona hosts 24 lines, Tarragona 7, and Girona and Lleida 6 each.

The impact of Exprés.cat has been significant, with over 180 million validations since its launch and approximately 27 million journeys recorded in 2023 alone—a 13.3% increase compared to 2022 and 13.7% above pre-pandemic levels in 2019. The service has consistently received positive feedback from users, who rate it an average of 8.1 out of 10.

The network’s success lies in its ability to enhance accessibility while improving the competitiveness of public transport. Phase 2 of Exprés.cat is already underway, with 38 new lines planned to further expand connectivity. Two additional lines have recently begun operation, marking the first steps of this ambitious expansion, which will continue to support Catalonia’s transition to sustainable and decarbonised mobility.

Catalonia’s mobility initiatives connect communities while preserving cultural heritage and supporting sustainable development across urban and rural areas. Credit: Generalitat de Catalunya


POLIS: Looking to the future, what are the most significant projects or milestones on Catalonia’s horizon that will contribute to its 2040 vision for a sustainable and interconnected mobility system?

Catalonia’s 2040 vision includes a comprehensive redesign of the interurban transport system by 2028, aligning it with environmental goals and evolving mobility demands. This overhaul will ensure improved connectivity, particularly in rural areas where transport services are a lifeline.

Phase 2 of the Exprés.cat network, with 38 new lines, will further enhance regional connections. Additionally, decarbonisation initiatives aim to reduce transport-related emissions and improve air quality, fostering sustainable travel behaviours. Through these efforts, Catalonia is building a resilient and inclusive transport system that serves as a model for other regions.

Catalonia is reshaping mobility through electrified buses, on-demand services, and multimodal integration. Cross-border projects, rural accessibility, and safety-first initiatives like the 'Purple Button' drive its mission for greener, inclusive transport. Design by Annalisa Gozzi.