The relation between train access mode and travelers’ transport mode-choice decisions in the context of medium- and long-distance trips in the Netherlands

This paper presents the findings of a study that investigated travelers’ transport mode-choice behavior in the context of medium- and long-distance trips, with special attention given to attributes of train access modes. The goal of the paper is to provide greater insight into the contribution of both access and main travel-mode attributes to the travelers’ decision to use the car or the train for medium- and long-distance trips. Based on data collected through a stated choice experiment, a mixed logit model is estimated to identify the contributions of all included attributes. In total, 32 attributes were included in the experiment describing the main transport modes, train and car, and the access modes: bicycle, bus, and drop-off/car. Based on a fractional factorial design, the attributes and corresponding levels were combined into 81 different mode-choice situations. The stated choice experiment was included in an online questionnaire that was distributed among members of a marketing panel. Panel members were invited to choose the preferred travel-mode for a medium- and long-distance trip given a detailed description of both main and access modes. Each member evaluated nine choice situations. In total, 415 panel members completed the questionnaire. Combined, panel members evaluated 3,735 choice situations. The mixed logit model analysis shows that time and cost-related attributes significantly contribute to the attractiveness of transport modes. However, these effects differ considerably between the investigated modes. Conversely, safety-related attributes, chance of delay, and transfer time from access mode to train platform play a minor role.