10 urban travel headaches that could soon be history (thanks to this Finnish service)

Imagine cruising in a brand new BMW whenever you want without having to buy, fix or insure it. Consider grabbing a cab without worrying about the cost and never queuing for a ticket at the metro station again. Whim, the world’s first MaaS-based journey service, was unveiled this evening in Brussels. MaaS stands for Mobility as a Service. It is a Finnish concept internationally known as the Helsinki model for transport. It allows you to buy all your travel at one go in one place.

The people at MaaS Global, the Helsinki-based company behind Whim, make bold claims about the app. Founder and CEO Sampo Hietanen says 2016 will be remembered as the year that totally changed the way we move. He states that with Whim, you are free to go anywhere at any time on any form of transport.

One off payment for an entire month

Whim promises to make car ownership unnecessary. You can choose to buy a month’s journeys at one go or a one off trip on a pay as you go basis. Your tickets are all there. You have access to anything from brand new cars to cabs, shared bikes and public transport. Hietanen notes they are constantly adding new options.

Greener, cleaner and leaner

Whim aims to fix urban travel problems in an age of too many possessions and environmental pressure. Here are 10 common travel troubles and how Whim deals with them.

1. We spend way too much time in traffic jams

Whim claims to always find the best way to get everywhere. In busy times it suggests a bike or public transport. This gives back the time spent staring at the windscreen in frustration.

2. We never find a parking spot

Driving around the block a hundred times is a poor use of time. With Whim, you can opt for a taxi or a rental car instead.

3. The average car is parked 96% of the time

Whim removes the need to own a car. You save money yet enjoy equal convenience.

4. We feel bad about CO2 emissions

Whim encourages the use of public transport. It gives extra travel points and prizes for green choices.

5. We are too busy to remember where we should be

Whim syncs with calendars and plans every journey in advance.

6. Parking lots take up the best urban spots

In Helsinki, prime spots for lounging are often used for parking. Fewer private cars allow cities to reclaim squares and the seaside for urban living.

7. Taxis are expensive

Whim includes taxi journeys in the subscription. You can have luxury for less.

8. Renting a car is a hassle

Rental cars are part of Whim. Green choices might even earn you a weekend cruiser for free.

9. Commuting and shopping take up all our time

Whim promises to bring extra services like groceries and meals delivered to the door alongside quick transport.

10. Waiting in taxi queues at 4am is unpleasant

Waiting outside in minus 25 degrees is unnecessary. You press a button and a cab arrives.