As part of their MegaBITS flagship initiative, the Province of Overijssel and the cities of Zwolle and Enschede have successfully launched a new cycling app.
To promote sustainable mobility, six Dutch provinces—Overijssel, Utrecht, Zuid-Holland, Noord-Brabant, Limburg and Gelderland have joined forces to launch a new generation cycling stimulation app: “Da’s zo gefietst”. Backed by the Dutch Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management, this app aims to encourage a nationwide shift from car to bicycle, using smart technology, behavioral nudges, and data-driven insights.
A Unified National Platform
“Da’s zo gefietst” replaces earlier regional apps like Ik fiets, Sjees, and Enschede Fietst, combining their best features into one user-friendly, privacy-conscious platform. The app is designed for everyone—from occasional cyclists to daily commuters—and is available across the Netherlands, regardless of province.
Key Features
- Automatic Ride Detection: Using GPS and smart algorithms, the app detects and logs bike rides, walking, car, and public transport trips.
- Green Light Priority: Integration with intelligent traffic lights (iVRI) allows cyclists to request green lights automatically via CAM and SRM messages or IVERA protocol.
- Personalized Challenges: Users can set short- and long-term goals, join team competitions, and earn digital badges.
- Reward System: Every bicycle-trip earns points, which can be exchanged for discounts, donations to charities, or lottery entries.
- Social Interaction: Users can follow friends, like achievements, and join cycling communities.
- Impact Insights: The app will be able to visualize CO₂ savings, calories burned, and compares performance with local and national averages.
Data-Driven Policy Support
One of the app’s features is its data dashboard for governments. This tool aggregates anonymized mobility data—such as trip frequency, modal shifts, and route usage—enabling provinces and municipalities to fine-tune cycling infrastructure and policies. The data is processed and stored securely.
Privacy, Accessibility, and Support
The app complies with the EU’s GDPR and Dutch BIO standards. Users must explicitly consent to data use, and all personal data is encrypted, anonymized, and never sold.
To ensure a smooth experience, the app includes a built-in helpdesk. Users can submit questions or report issues directly through the app and receive a response within two working days. A clear FAQ, user manual, and onboarding guide are also available within the app interface.
Accessibility and ease of use are central to the app’s design. The interface is intuitive, supports both Dutch and English, and is optimized for minimal battery usage. Users can navigate the app with minimal clicks, and all key features—such as ride tracking, challenges, and rewards—are easily accessible from the home screen.
Phased Rollout and Scalability
The app is being rolled out in three phases, starting July 2025. While initially launched in four provinces, others—including Gelderland, Noord-Holland, and Friesland—can join later. The modular design ensures scalability and adaptability to local needs, including custom challenges and reward schemes.