SMILE24 in a nutshell

Since spring 2024 up until december 2025, SMILE24 has provided the most comprehensive integrated public transport systems in rural Germany. In an area larger than Berlin, we have significantly expanded local transport services. For every tourist and moreover 120,000 residents, it was possible to travel from any point A to any point B in the region—around the clock. Battery-powered express buses connected regional centers, while a zero-emission 24/7 on-demand ridepooling service linked even remote villages to train and bus networks. Bike and car sharing options complemented the system. Our app enables seamless multimodal travel. Many villages are now connected to public transport for the first time, reducing car dependency and supporting social participation. This leads to more equal living conditions between rural and urban areas. We are proud that SMILE24 has already led to a 60% increase in passenger numbers within the first six months, and we look very much forward to further developing the project - even after the official end of the funding period from the Federal Ministry of Transport.

In 2026, we adjusted the SMILE24 service so that the region can continue to benefit from a highly attractive public transport offering.

What is SMILE24?

In many rural parts of Germany, the old cliché still rings true: the bus comes just once a day. If we want to make meaningful progress in reducing traffic emissions and driving a true mobility transformation, things need to change.

SMILE24 is a pioneering public transport project designed to serve as a model for sustainable mobility in rural areas across Germany. The project is being implemented in the Schlei region in northern Germany and introduces a combination of new transport services, vehicle types, and significantly improved public transit options.

The goal? To offer people in the region a sustainable, reliable, and car-free way to get around – 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

What does SMILE24 stand for?

SMILE24 is a German acronym for:
Schlei mobility, Modern, Innovative, Land-based (rural), Emission-free – available 24/7.
In short: it’s about giving people the freedom to travel independently at any time of day – without needing to own a car.

Whether it's your daily commute, a shopping trip to the next town, a visit to the doctor, or a day at the beach – SMILE24 helps you reach your destination smoothly and sustainably.

Who is SMILE24 for?

SMILE24 is for everyone who wants to travel affordably, stress-free, and in an environmentally friendly way – without relying on their own car.

All services are integrated into the local public transport system and can be used with standard fares – including the Deutschlandticket.

What does SMILE24 offer?

SMILE24 combines various modes of transport into a flexible, seamless system:

Upgraded bus services, including express and seasonal tourist routes
On-demand shuttles (NAHSHUTTLE) to cover gaps in the timetable
Bike and car sharing for even more flexibility

You can use each service on its own or combine them to suit your journey.

1. The new bus service during the SMILE24-project:

Frequent, direct, and zero-emissions

Electric express buses ran along main routes between Kappeln, Schleswig, and Eckernförde
Every 30 minutes, from early morning to late at night
Seasonal routes served popular tourist spots during vacation times – with space for bicycles
These new services complemented the existing public transport network in the Schlei and Baltic Sea region

2. NAH.SHUTTLE – Mobility around the clock

When buses and trains weren’t running – especially late at night – NAHSHUTTLE filled the gap.

Book anytime, via app or phone
Close network of virtual stops – usually less than 300 m away
Shared rides make the service more efficient and eco-friendly

3. Bike and car sharing – rent what you need, when you need it

Bike Sharing:

Rentable green and orange bikes from Donkey Republic were available at 50+ stations
Perfect for spontaneous short trips
Bonus: First 30 minutes were free

Car Sharing:

Electric cars from Flow Carsharing and Cambio (Cambio currently only in Kappeln)
Available at designated locations with charging stations
Book by the hour or day – ideal if you only need a car occasionally