Deadline: 15-Dec-2026
The PEPR MOBIDEC programme invites French research and higher education institutions to submit multidisciplinary research proposals focused on the digitalisation and decarbonisation of mobility. The call supports innovative projects addressing mobility data, intermodality, environmental impacts, and mobility challenges in different territories, with funding of €600,000 to €1.625 million per project.
What Is the PEPR MOBIDEC Programme?
The PEPR MOBIDEC (Priority Research Equipment and Programmes) initiative supports scientific research aimed at transforming mobility systems through digital innovation and decarbonisation.
Launched in 2023 under France 2030, the programme aims to build a strong research community focused on the future of mobility for both people and goods.
The initiative addresses major challenges including:
- Climate change and environmental impacts
- Energy transition
- Digital transformation
- Changing mobility behaviours
- Economic and social challenges affecting transport systems
The programme has a total budget of:
€30 million
Purpose of the PEPR MOBIDEC Research Call
The second call for projects supports multidisciplinary research that contributes to more sustainable, efficient, and digitally enabled mobility systems.
The call focuses on developing scientific knowledge and practical solutions related to:
- Mobility uses and behaviours
- Transport data management
- Intermodal mobility solutions
- Environmental assessment of mobility transitions
- Digital technologies for sustainable transport
Research Themes Supported Under the Call
Projects must address at least one of the following four thematic areas.
1. Mobility in Sparsely Populated Areas
This theme focuses on mobility challenges in rural and low-density regions.
Research may explore:
- Access to transport services
- New mobility solutions for rural areas
- Territorial inequalities
- Mobility needs of communities outside major cities
- Digital tools supporting local mobility systems
2. Innovative Data Processing Methods
This area supports research on advanced approaches to mobility data.
Projects may focus on:
- Artificial intelligence and data analytics
- Data integration methods
- Mobility modelling
- Real-time transport information systems
- Digital tools for decision-making
The objective is to improve understanding and management of mobility systems through better use of data.
3. Decarbonisation Through Intermodality
This theme explores how combining different transport modes can reduce environmental impacts.
Research areas may include:
- Integration of public transport and active mobility
- Multimodal transport planning
- Sustainable logistics systems
- Reduced dependence on carbon-intensive transport
- Behavioural changes supporting low-carbon mobility
4. Assessment of Environmental Impacts of Mobility Transitions
This theme focuses on measuring and understanding the environmental consequences of mobility changes.
Projects may examine:
- Carbon emissions
- Life-cycle environmental impacts
- Energy consumption
- Climate benefits of new mobility models
- Sustainability indicators
Who Is Eligible?
The call is open to:
- French research institutions
- French higher education institutions
Applicants are encouraged to create multidisciplinary research consortia involving different scientific fields and stakeholders.
Eligible Partnerships
Projects may include collaboration with:
- Transport operators
- Local and regional authorities
- Territorial actors
- Companies
- Foreign research institutions
However:
- Foreign institutions and companies may participate only as non-funded partners.
- Only French entities are eligible to receive financial support.
Requirements for Eligible Projects
Projects must:
- Address at least one PEPR MOBIDEC thematic axis
- Demonstrate scientific innovation
- Include multidisciplinary expertise
- Complement existing PEPR research initiatives
- Engage relevant mobility stakeholders
Funding Available
The PEPR MOBIDEC call provides significant financial support for selected research projects.
Funding Amount Per Project
Each project may receive:
€600,000 to €1,625,000
Total Call Budget
The overall budget available under this call is approximately:
€6.5 million
Eligible Expenses
Funding may support:
- Research activities
- Doctoral contracts
- Project coordination
- Scientific activities
- Operational costs directly linked to research
Funding is designed to support new initiatives and should not replace existing institutional resources.
Project Duration
Supported projects must have a duration of:
36 to 42 months
Projects should present a clear research plan and realistic implementation timeline.
Why Digitalisation and Decarbonisation of Mobility Matter
Mobility systems are undergoing major transformations due to climate pressures, technological developments, and changing social needs.
Research in this field helps:
- Reduce transport-related emissions
- Improve mobility access
- Support sustainable cities and regions
- Develop smarter transport systems
- Create evidence-based mobility policies
Innovative research can help build transport systems that are more efficient, inclusive, and environmentally responsible.
How to Apply for the PEPR MOBIDEC Call
The application process includes two main stages.
Step 1: Submit a Letter of Intent
Applicants must first submit a mandatory letter of intent.
Requirements:
- Maximum length: 3 pages
- Deadline: September 17, 2026
The letter should outline:
- Research objectives
- Scientific approach
- Project relevance
- Consortium members
- Alignment with PEPR MOBIDEC priorities
Step 2: Submit Full Proposal
Shortlisted applicants will be invited to submit a complete proposal.
Full proposal deadline:
December 15, 2026
The proposal should include:
- Detailed research methodology
- Work plan
- Consortium structure
- Budget details
- Expected outcomes
- Stakeholder involvement
Evaluation Process
Applications will be assessed through a two-stage evaluation process.
First Evaluation Stage
Proposals are reviewed by:
- PEPR MOBIDEC internal committee
This stage evaluates:
- Eligibility
- Strategic alignment
- Scientific relevance
Second Evaluation Stage
Selected proposals are assessed by:
- International expert jury
- Convened by the French National Research Agency (ANR)
Evaluation criteria include:
- Research quality
- Innovation potential
- Multidisciplinary approach
- Impact on mobility transformation
Tips for a Strong Proposal
Applicants should:
- Build multidisciplinary teams
- Clearly connect research with mobility challenges
- Include relevant stakeholders
- Explain how results can support sustainable transport policies
- Demonstrate complementarity with existing research programmes
Common Application Mistakes to Avoid
Applicants should avoid:
- Submitting projects outside the four thematic areas
- Lack of collaboration between disciplines
- Weak explanation of societal impact
- Unclear project timelines
- Failure to meet submission deadlines
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is PEPR MOBIDEC?
PEPR MOBIDEC is a France 2030 research programme supporting scientific projects on the digitalisation and decarbonisation of mobility systems.
Who can apply for this research funding?
French research and higher education institutions can apply. Foreign organisations may participate only as non-funded partners.
How much funding can projects receive?
Selected projects can receive between €600,000 and €1.625 million.
What research areas are supported?
The call supports research on rural mobility, mobility data, intermodality, and environmental impacts of mobility transitions.
How long can projects run?
Projects must last between 36 and 42 months.
What is the first application deadline?
The mandatory letter of intent must be submitted by September 17, 2026.
Who evaluates applications?
Applications are evaluated by the PEPR MOBIDEC committee and an international expert jury organised by the French National Research Agency.
Conclusion
The PEPR MOBIDEC 2026 Research Call provides major funding opportunities for French research institutions working on the future of sustainable mobility.
By supporting research on digital technologies, mobility data, intermodal systems, and environmental impacts, the programme aims to accelerate the transition toward cleaner, smarter, and more resilient mobility systems in France and beyond.
For more information, visit French National Research Agency.
