Assessing the Effectiveness of Sustainable Strategies to Bridge the Digital Divide in the Mobility Sector: A Pilot Test in Seoul

Abstract

The emergence of digital mobility services holds great promise for enhancing efficiency, convenience, and accessibility for passengers. However, these benefits are predominantly accessible to those proficient in utilizing these technologies, which may intensify the disparity in transportation usage. This paper presents plans to alleviate the digital divide in the mobility sector. First, two fundamental approaches were established through a literature review: (1) app usage education and (2) an AI-based Mobility Service App. To substantiate the effectiveness of these approaches, a pilot test was conducted in Seoul. The results of the pilot test showed that the AI-based Mobility Service App was effective for reducing travel time and enhancing the convenience of passage. Accordingly, the Technology Acceptance Model was adopted to derive technology acceptance factors of the AI-based Mobility Service App. Finally, a phased approach with short-term, medium-term, and long-term plans was proposed based on the analysis results to ensure sustainable policies in the mobility sector.