Testing bike boxes in Slovenia

In Grosuplje, secure bike boxes at the existing multimodal hub were largely unused due to poor maintenance and lack of integration with public transport. To address this, a pilot project running from 2024 to 2026 as part of the A2PT Project was launched. The aim was to upgrade the facility, increase its use in combination with public transport, and analyse the travel habits and user experience of participants to find a scalable solution.

Underused bike boxes at Grosuplje station

Bike boxes at Grosuplje station were underused due to poor maintenance, limited access, and weak public transport integration, reducing intermodal travel opportunities

App-based smart bike box

An app-based smart system was introduced to manage refurbished bike lockers, combining secure private parking with shared e-bike rentals.

Increased usage and positive user feedback

The refurbished bike box access improved the connection between active and public transport, enabled data-driven planning, and supported intermodal travel.

User-centric data is key for scaling

A successful system requires more than just technology; it needs a user-friendly digital interface, active promotion, and a flexible service model.

Challenge addressed: Underused bike boxes at Grosuplje station

Secure bike boxes at Grosuplje railway station remained largely unused due to poor maintenance, limited accessibility, and lack of integration with public transport. This reduced opportunities for intermodal travel. The pilot addressed this by refurbishing the facility, introducing app-based access, and promoting combined use of e-bikes and rail to better understand user needs and increase sustainable daily mobility.

Solution implemented: App-based smart bike box system with e-bike use

The pilot introduced a refurbished bike storage facility with eight secure lockers at Grosuplje station, equipped with an app-based locking system. Three lockers were used for shared e-bike rentals, while five were available for private bicycles. Users signed monthly contracts to receive access at no cost. The pilot combined secure parking with e-bike use and public transport, while collecting feedback to support scaling similar solutions across Slovenia.

Results achieved: municipal level; potential for expansion to the national level

The practice was implemented through collaboration between the municipality, public transport stakeholders, and a technology provider. By refurbishing existing infrastructure with a smart, app-based access system, the project directly improved access to public transport services by providing a secure and convenient solution for the first/last mile. This practice is considered good as it aligns with key stakeholder principles. For Infrastructure Owners, it created high-quality, secure cycling facilities at a public transport hub. For Researchers & Innovators, the pilot generated robust, user-centred data on multimodal travel patterns, crucial for future planning. The continuous feedback loop ensured the solution was user-centric, a core principle for Planners & Designers. This data-driven, user-focused approach provides a replicable model for improving intermodal travel.

Lessons learned: User-centric data is key for scaling

For successful replication in other regions, a simple and reliable digital access system is crucial. Active promotion and clear user instructions are essential to overcome initial hesitation and build trust. Offering a trial period or subsidized access can significantly boost initial uptake and feedback collection. Combining secure parking for private bikes with a shared e-bike option broadens the user base, catering to both regular commuters and occasional users, thus maximizing the facility's impact.