The YEZTS Transport Model: A Discussion of the Empirical Findings on Modal Split

A MEPLAN model for multimodal intercity freight and passenger transport planning was implemented in the Yangtze Economic Zone Transport Study, the largest transport study to date in China. Information was collected on the patterns of use in practice of each transport mode for various categories of freight and for passengers. A logit model of choice of mode was calibrated separately for each of these categories. The results of the calibration, both in terms of the quality of the fit and in the interpretation of the model parameters were much better than expected. The empirical findings obtained from the modal split calibration, and their theoretical and practical implications are discussed.