Brussels is leading the way in sustainable urban transport, with over 50% of households now car-free. At the heart of this transformation is STIB Brussels, the city’s public transport operator, which has been pioneering sustainable mobility solutions. In the latest episode of Mobility Redefined, STIB CEO Brieuc de Meeùs shares how Brussels is investing in a future where public transport is the backbone of urban life.
A €6 Billion Investment in Public Transport
Public transport in Brussels is experiencing a significant shift, with a €6 billion investment from 2019 to 2028 to modernise and expand services. This includes:
- Metro expansion: Adding six new kilometres and upgrading pre-metro lines.
- Tram network growth: One of Europe’s oldest networks is getting new lines and rolling stock.
- Electric bus transition: STIB is working towards a fully electric fleet, while also testing hydrogen buses.
These investments align with the city’s Good Move plan, which prioritises cleaner air, reduced congestion, and a more liveable urban space.
AI, Hydrogen, and the Future of Public Transport
Innovation is central to STIB’s strategy. The organisation has been using AI-driven predictive maintenance to enhance operations, reducing downtime and improving service reliability. STIB was also one of the first public transport operators to implement chatbots over a decade ago, improving customer interaction.
On the energy front, while hydrogen buses hold promise, challenges remain in terms of green hydrogen availability and logistics. STIB continues to explore the best solutions to ensure a sustainable transition.
Mobility as a Service: Integrating Transport for a Seamless Experience
Brussels is also pioneering Mobility as a Service (MaaS) with its Floya platform, which integrates multiple transport options—including metro, trams, buses, bike-sharing, and taxis—into a single, user-friendly system. MaaS aims to make urban mobility frictionless, encouraging more residents to shift away from private car ownership.
Putting People First: STIB as an Employer of Choice
As Brussels’ largest employer, STIB has been recognised as a Top Employer for nearly a decade. De Meeùs emphasises that creating an employee-centric workplace is key to delivering high-quality public transport. STIB focuses on offering meaningful work, career growth, and an inclusive environment to attract and retain talent.
The Takeaway: Investing in Public Transport Pays Off
For cities looking to reduce congestion and carbon emissions, Brussels provides a compelling case study. Investing in public transport doesn’t just benefit commuters—it boosts the economy, environment, and overall quality of life.
Listen to the Full Episode
If you’re a transport professional, city planner, policymaker, or simply passionate about urban mobility, this episode of Mobility Redefined offers valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities in sustainable public transport.