Shaping tomorrow’s smart transportation: an analysis of the internet of vehicles and the case of NExT

This thesis presents an exploratory study on the integration of Autonomous Connected Modular Vehicles (ACMVs) within Mobility as a Service (MaaS) ecosystems, aiming to understand their potential to enhance urban mobility and address the limitations of current public transportation systems. Through an extensive literature review, the study explores the conceptual underpinnings of smart connected objects, modularity in transportation, and the evolution of MaaS. It critically examines the operational, economic, and service-driven aspects of ACMVs, juxtaposing them with traditional fixed-route and on-demand transit modes. The research highlights the transformative potential of ACMVs in offering a more adaptive, efficient, and user-centric approach to urban transit, aligned with the principles of sustainability and inclusivity. Further enriching the analysis, the study employs customer journeys (CJ) to map out the end-to-end experiences of potential ACMV users, offering deep insights into their needs, preferences, and pain points. Utilizing the Business Model Canvas (BMC) and Value Proposition Canvas (VPC), the thesis proposes robust frameworks for the strategic and operational planning of ACMV integration within MaaS, ensuring that the value propositions are closely aligned with customer expectations and market demands. While the study does not present empirical findings, it lays a theoretical foundation for future research, suggesting directions for empirical studies, pilot programs, and cross-sectoral partnerships to validate the proposed models and explore the practical implementation of ACMVs in urban settings. The thesis contributes to the academic discourse on smart mobility and urban transportation, offering insights and implications for policymakers, urban planners, and transportation stakeholders.