Flexa on-call bus in northern Saxony: high demand, many requests for improvement!

Flexa on-call bus in northern Saxony: high demand, many requests for improvement!

There is something new in the vehicle fleet in the North Saxony district: On December 15, 2024, the flexible on-call bus system “Flexa” was launched. This system is intended to significantly improve public transport in rural areas because it works independently of fixed timetables or routes. The buses pick up passengers from their local area and take them to the desired destination stops or transfer points. An extremely practical solution for anyone traveling in less well-connected regions.

But what are the exact requirements for using “Flexa”? If there is no scheduled connection 30 minutes before or after the desired trip and the distance between the start and destination is more than 25 kilometers or less than one kilometer, then you can book a trip. This can be conveniently organized using the MDV app “MOOVME” or by telephone on 03435 906096, Monday to Friday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Bookings are also possible up to 60 minutes before the desired departure time.

User experiences: Where is the problem?

The response to “Flexa” is mixed. The service is proving popular in everyday life, with an average of 80 trips per day. Nevertheless, there are many voices calling for improvements. Older people in particular report difficulties, as many have problems with smartphones and therefore prefer to book by telephone. The 9 p.m. regulation is also met with criticism because it limits the scope for use in the evening. Users want the service to be available until midnight so that they can travel flexibly in the evening.

In addition, more intensive advertising is desired, as many citizens have not yet received enough information about the offer. Even suggestions such as group trips specifically for seniors are being debated and could help to further promote acceptance of the system.

Capacities and future prospects

In order to meet the increasing demand, Nordsachsen mobil is planning to increase the capacity of the on-call bus system soon. Taxi companies are currently used for additional trips, but this is not always the ideal solution. The heaviest demand occurs Monday to Friday in the early morning and afternoon and on weekends until early evening. The Schkeuditz area in particular has the greatest need for expansion in order to fully meet the needs of users.

The initiative for the on-call bus system is part of a nationwide trend that aims to initiate a necessary transport transition in rural regions of Germany. While a wide range of transport options are often available in urban areas, connections in rural areas often remain below expectations, which has a negative impact on people's mobility. Experts emphasize that only 9% of the kilometers traveled are on buses and trains; the rest is still predominantly driven by car. It is important to encourage a rethink here.

Transport policy must change in order to achieve climate goals and offer people real alternatives to cars. “Flexa” could act as a role model and support the decisive turnaround in rural local transport. But getting there requires commitment from citizens and politicians alike.

For further information about the “Flexa” on-call bus system and booking options, visit Torgauer Zeitung or Nordsachsen Mobile. In addition, Deutschlandfunk highlights the challenges and opportunities of rural local transport. It remains exciting to see how “Flexa” will develop in the coming months.