Evaluating the sustainability impact of the Deutschlandticket - an empirical study

The introduction of the Deutschlandticket in May 2023 marked a significant milestone in German public transportation, following the success of the €9 ticket. This study delves into the impact of sustainability and mobility behaviour changes associated with the Deutschlandticket. A representative online survey was conducted across Germany between August 3 and 16, 2023, using an empirical research approach, focusing on the first four months of the ticket’s implementation. The results are intriguing, indicating that while the Deutschlandticket has increased public transport usage, particularly among previous €9 ticket holders, its long-term impact on sustainable mobility behaviour remains uncertain. For instance, the survey revealed a 20% increase in public transport usage among ticket holders, with a significant decrease in private car usage and a slight decrease in active modes like cycling and walking. These findings underscore the intricate and challenging interplay between affordability, modal shift, and sustainability in the context of nationwide ticket initiatives like the Deutschlandticket. The audience is invited to further research to understand this complex relationship fully.