TDM Trends for 2026
The TDM field is evolving fast! New technologies, changing travel behaviors, and evolving policies are reshaping how we work and deliver impact. Staying ahead means rethinking strategies, strengthening partnerships, and embracing smarter tools, and we asked a few industry leaders to share insights about what they see on the horizon. From emerging trends to practical ways organizations can prepare, read below to learn about the shifts that will define the year ahead and beyond.
Hear from Matt Caywood (CEO of Actionfigure), Lakshna Chadha Jha (CEO of sRide Carpool), and Chinmay Malaviya (CEO and Co-Founder of Ridepanda) about what's next and how your team can lead the way.
Matt Caywood
As public transit systems continue to evolve post-2020, we are investing in providing data to transit agencies and "commute concierge" services to reach new riders and those with new routes.
Lakshna Chadha Jha
Globally we expect carpool and taxipool programs that keep commuting affordable and equitable to become more relevant as shared travel becomes more essential.
Chinmay Malaviya
In 2026, employees are back in the workplace, but expectations around the commute have permanently shifted. Workers increasingly judge how daily commute affects stress, wellbeing, and job satisfaction, and TDM programs must evolve. We’re preparing in three ways: -positioning employer-sponsored e-mobility as a workforce strategy; -integrating micromobility alongside transit, parking cash-out, and pre-tax benefits for greater flexibility; -and measuring not just mode shift, but employee sentiment and wellness outcomes.
Our data shows 80% of e-bike commuters feel less stressed, 37% report improved productivity, and 39% report higher employer satisfaction, improving the commute is a lever for retention and engagement.
Matt Caywood
We expect increased attention to travel behavior and TDM marketing around major events like the 2026 World Cup in 16 North American cities.
Lakshna Chadha Jha
Smart and dynamic matching and incentive platforms that power carpool and taxipool, while strengthening workplace networks and commute-based community connections.
Chinmay Malaviya
The most significant technology shift impacting TDM programs is the move toward integrated, platform-based mobility ecosystems that combine flexible access with real-time data. Static commuter benefits are giving way to digital, subscription-style models that support hybrid travel patterns and lower barriers to adoption. Equally transformative is the data layer.
TDM managers now have real-time visibility into mode adoption, emissions reduction, and engagement trends which enables measurable reporting aligned with sustainability, Scope 3, and workforce wellbeing goals. Technology is making TDM programs more measurable, adaptable, and strategically aligned with broader organizational priorities which is a trend that will accelerate in 2026 and beyond.
Matt Caywood
AI and mapping tools. Increased capability and user-friendliness will make TDM programs more evidence based. (For example, our Actionfigure Foresight tool, and our event transportation analytics).
Lakshna Chadha Jha
A move from vehicle-centric solutions to people- and community-centered shared mobility that prioritizes affordability, equity, and connection.
Chinmay Malaviya
I hope to see the industry expand how it defines success. Too often, transportation is treated purely as a logistics challenge focused on congestion and efficiency. While those goals matter, the next evolution of TDM is recognizing the commute as a measurable driver of wellness, productivity, and retention.
High-stress commutes correlate with lower employee satisfaction, and research shows holistic wellness initiatives can generate $1,100 to $3,500 in annual value per employee through improved productivity and reduced absenteeism. It’s time to treat “commute wellness” as a core KPI alongside mode shift and emissions reduction, elevating TDM into a strategic workforce asset.
Matt Caywood
Organizations should invest in internal capability - upskilling TDM coordinators and employee transportation coordinators - and give them access to analytics so they are more capable, ready to respond to change, and less dependent on external expertise.
Lakshna Chadha Jha
Organizations should invest in teams and tools that make the commute easy, affordable, while using networking and community-building to bring people back to work and keep them engaged.
Chinmay Malaviya
Organizations should invest in commuting the same way they invest in healthcare or retirement benefits: strategically, equitably, and with flexibility at the center. Today’s workforce varies in responsibilities, geography, and financial realities. Preparing for industry change means moving beyond one-size-fits-all programs and offering a portfolio of subsidized options that let employees choose what works best for them. Subsidies are essential.
Commuting is a consistent out-of-pocket expense, and reducing that burden directly supports financial wellness and equity. The future of TDM isn’t prescribing how employees travel. It’s enabling informed choice and positioning mobility as a resilient, employee-centered strategy.