Meet the BUS2BUS Advisory Board: Dr. Britta Oehlrich

Dr Oehlrich's daily routine involves sustainable local transport: as Managing Director of vhh.mobility in Hamburg, she is driving forward the expansion of modern, climate-friendly mobility services. As a member of the BUS2BUS Advisory Board, she contributes her practical experience to discussions about the future of bus transport. Furthermore, she advocates for greater visibility and promotion of women in public transport, emphasising the importance of diversity and equal opportunities in the industry.

1. What developments are currently having the greatest impact on the bus and mobility industry?

The industry is currently undergoing profound change on several levels. Electrification and alternative drive systems are at the forefront of these changes. E-buses, charging infrastructure, and the intelligent use of energy have become integral to our daily lives. Sustainability is also shaping our thoughts and actions increasingly. At VHH Mobility, we view reducing CO₂, green procurement and recycling not only as an obligation, but also as a key means of achieving our climate goals. The shortage of skilled workers is another issue that motivates us to develop new working models, ensure fair pay and make our job profiles more attractive. Financing is also crucial, particularly for municipal companies that depend on political decisions. Another topic for the future is autonomous driving. This technology is on the verge of becoming a reality, and we are asking ourselves what this will mean for us, our passengers and the industry as a whole.

2. What role does sustainability play in your working environment and what opportunities do you see for the industry?

For us, sustainability is not just a passing trend; it's an integral part of our DNA. As Germany's third-largest municipal bus operator, our vision is clear: we want to improve quality of life through mobility for people in urban and rural areas throughout the Hamburg metropolitan region. The city of Hamburg has set itself ambitious climate targets, from its clean air plan to the Hamburg Future Decision, and we at VHH Mobility are contributing directly to these goals by converting our fleet to electric power and reducing CO₂ emissions during the construction of our depots. We are further enhancing this effect through sustainable procurement. I see this as a huge opportunity: we are actively helping to shape the climate-friendly, liveable city of tomorrow. This is what makes our work so fulfilling.

3. What are your expectations for BUS2BUS 2026?

I am particularly looking forward to hearing new ideas, whether they are political, technological or strategic. However, above all, the personal exchange with colleagues from other transport companies is at the heart of the event for me. We all face similar challenges, and this is precisely why we can learn so much from each other. I consider our willingness to cooperate and learn from each other to be a great asset.

4. Is there a bus route that is particularly close to your heart?

Oh yes, Hamburg's line 3! It connects my home and workplace and runs right through the heart of the city. It's a VHH mobility line, of course. I know many of the drivers personally, and exchanging a quick greeting when getting on or off the bus is simply part of the experience for me. It makes every journey a little bit special.

5. If you didn't work in the mobility industry, what would you do instead?

Many things would appeal to me, such as gastronomy, tourism and perhaps the book trade. Most importantly, I would want to be close to people, keep moving and do something meaningful. But, to be honest, I'd prefer to stay exactly where I am – in public transport!

6. Which innovation from your company could serve as a model nationwide?

A real showcase project is ahoi, automated on-demand transport service in Hamburg's Harburg district. As part of the hvv hop on-demand transport service, we are deploying a mixed fleet of autonomous and manually controlled vehicles in the area. This includes an integrated control centre, accessible applications, and accompanying research – for example, on passenger acceptance. I am convinced that this is a groundbreaking step for public transport, demonstrating how innovation, sustainability and social benefits can go hand in hand.