In the context of transportation systems, what does the term "multi-modal" refer to?

The term "multi-modal" in the context of transportation systems refers to a system that integrates different modes of transport. This concept emphasizes the importance of seamless connections and coordination among various transportation methods—such as buses, trains, bicycles, and walking—to create a holistic transportation experience.

By integrating different modes, multi-modal transportation facilitates efficient movement of people and goods, allowing users to choose the best possible combination of transport methods based on their needs, preferences, and travel conditions. This approach not only improves accessibility but also optimizes the entire transportation network, reducing congestion and environmental impact.

The other options, while related to transportation, do not accurately capture the essence of what multi-modal means. Flexible ticketing pertains to payment options across different services rather than the integration itself. Focusing solely on automated vehicles limits the scope of transport modes, and transport systems exclusively for heavy cargo do not reflect the diversity that multi-modal systems aim to embody.