Arriva launches glimble MaaS app in The Netherlands

Arriva's new app will connect users with public transport and micromobility modes

Arriva has launched it’s first MaaS app in Europe, designed to connect users to public transport services, shared mobility options as well as micromobility modes in The Netherlands, named “glimble”.

The development of “glimble by arriva” came after Arriva Netherlands was awarded two pilot projects by the local authorities in the Netherlands to trial MaaS solutions. The transport operator has developed the App in partnership with the journey planning technology provider Moovit, and with the potential for a wider roll-out in other parts of Europe, where data sharing agreements and systems exist.

“With this platform, we are set to become a leading mobility provider. In a world where everyone is constantly on the move and connection and accessibility is essential, we need to be adaptable and nimble,” said Anne Hettinga, Arriva Group Board Member and Managing Director of the Netherlands.   

“Our glimble brand has started its Arriva journey in the Netherlands, but we know it has pan-European appeal – and potential – and we are starting to explore this in countries where the necessary data sharing agreements exist.”

The app incorporates accessibility features, such as screen reading features for low vision users, talkback and voiceover capabilities. It also identifies wheelchair-accessible routes and stations, while also calculating step-free journeys, and for those with hand-motor disabilities, Arriva says glimble is designed with optimised menus and buttons.

Other functionality due to be added to the App includes parking locations and a search capability for electric car charging points.

Several mobility providers can be found in the app for a number of different modes including shared car hire, demand responsive transport, scooters, taxis, tram, rail, ferry, bus and bicycles.  Arriva says it expects to add more and more carriers to glimble in the coming months and plans to expand to include Belgium and parts of Germany, from the Netherlands, to make cross-border journey planning and payment more efficient.