Intermodal: Passenger Transport

In intermodal, its have two has two types which are intermodal freight transport and intermodal passenger transport. This post will explain about intermodal passenger transport. 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.

Mixed-mode commuting often centers 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.

Advantages of Mixed-mode commuting by combines the benefits of walking, bicycle commuting, or driving with the benefits of rapid transit but location plays a large role in mixed mode commuting. Rapid transit such as express bus or light rail may cover most of the distance, but sit too far out from commute endpoints. Locations close to major transit such as rail stations carry higher land value and thus higher costs to rent or purchase. A commuter may select a location further out than practical walking distance but not more than practical cycling distance to reduce housing costs. 


Other cost advantages of mixed mode commuting include lower vehicle insurance, lower fuel and maintenance costs and increased automobile life. In the most extreme cases, a mixed-mode commuter may opt to car share and pay only a small portion of purchase, fuel, maintenance, and insurance, or to live car-free.