Mixed-mode Commuting

Intermodal passenger transport, also called mixed-mode commuting, involves using two or more modes of transportation in a journey. The goal of mixed-mode commuting is often to combine the strengths (and offset the weaknesses) of various transportation options. A major goal of modern intermodal passenger transport is to reduce dependence on the automobile as the major mode of ground transportation and increase use of public transport. To assist and encourage such trips, Intermodal Journey planning software - in the form of online web applications or mobile device apps - is often available for travellers to plan and schedule their journey.

Mixed-mode commuting often centres on one type of rapid transit, usually rail, to which low-speed options (i.e. bus, tram, or bicycle) are appended at the beginning or end of the journey. Trains offer quick transit into an urban area, where passengers can disembark and access a similar array of options to complete the trip. Most modes of transportation have always been intermodal; for example, to get to the airport people have always needed drive or be driven (e.g. take a taxi) or to take public transport (if available), and to get to an inter-regional railway station people have needed take local transport such as a bus, tram, or urban rail.