The problem of movement is one of the fundamental issues of urban logistics. Shaping the distribution of traffic flows in accordance with the principles of sustainable development, in relation to transport, requires taking steps to increase the competitiveness of alternative means of transport. Understanding the factors determining the choice of a means of transport is an important element when designing transport processes in the city.The article is an attempt to define the dilemmas of choosing a means of transport, which should facilitate investment decisions towards appropriate alternatives to the passenger car.
INTRODUCTION
The continuous increase in the number of vehicles on Polish roads is becoming a cause of significant traffic difficulties. The problem is growing especially in city centers, where the phenomenon of severe congestion causes significant time losses for people moving around. An additional negative effect of increasing congestion is the increase in noise and fuel consumption as well as higher emissions of harmful substances into the environment.
A predominant percentage of trips are made by passenger cars.
Reducing congestion in cities can be achieved by changing the modal split of traffic towards eco-friendly transport. Changing the means of transport from a passenger car to a bus or tram results in a reduction in the number of vehicles on the roads.
Depending on the assumed occupancy rate of a passenger car, it can be stated that one bus replaces from 30 (using only seats) to 70 passenger cars.
Attention should be paid to the factors conditioning the modal split of traffic occurring in a given area. A distinction between two groups has been proposed:
• Communication behaviors of travelers – define people’s approach to traveling by various means of transport and for various motivations, as well as the relationships between the decisions made and socio-demographic and spatial factors. The choices made are based, among other things, on current possibilities, limitations, and habits.
• Mobility – in this approach, it will mainly constitute the determination of the number of trips made, as a demand for transport. (…)
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Source: Logistyka Magazine 4/2011