Demand for passenger transport in Norway - driving forces and development 1985-98

During the period 1985-98 the number of trips by car has increased by around 30 per cent, while there has been a reduction of around 20 per cent in trips on foot and as a car passenger. Trips by public transport are reduced by 10 per cent, and cycling by around 5 per cent. There are mainly two driving forces behind these changes: 1. The increase in both car ownership and driving licences was the main driving force up to 1992. In the 1990’s these aspects are playing a less important role. 2. The transport activities are changing, both the number of trips, travel distance and purpose. These aspects have explained an increase in the transport activity for most modes up to 1992, and a significant reduction after 1992. These elements can explain around 2/3 of the changes in car use during the period 1985-92 and half the reduction in car passengers and walking.