Across the globe, cities and transport authorities are embracing demand-responsive transport, which uses technology to combine routing and ride scheduling flexibility with the affordability and sustainability of public transport.
As the world changes around us, pairing technology with transport networks allows cities to respond in real-time to changes in demand, offering safe and dynamic transport to accommodate social distancing regulations. A data-driven solution enables contact tracing and other key reporting metrics — a new and essential part of our ‘new normal’.
From planning to software and operations, Via can help you set up a demand-responsive transport (DRT) solution for your community. With Remix, now part of our portfolio, planning is easy — leverage powerful data visualisation analysis capabilities and identify communities and areas that would benefit from DRT. You can pinpoint key destinations to make your fixed route more efficient or to define an on-demand program. We’ll then work with you to roll out the best solution for your community’s needs.
In most places, high-frequency transport isn’t within walking distance of where people live and work. DRT connects people to buses and trains, while taking single-occupancy cars off the road.
It’s not easy to build a transport network in places that lack the population density necessary for efficient fixed-route buses or trains. DRT creates a more convenient and accessible service for passengers in these areas.
Public transport is often a critical lifeline for elderly citizens and people with disabilities. DRT optimises typically inefficient options, creating real-time bookings, higher quality service, and reducing trip costs with more efficient shared rides.
As both supply and demand shift with regulated social distancing measures, transport can be responsive, in real-time. Fixed routes can use demand-responsive technology to manage peak travel, book seats, and accommodate evolving safety practices.
On-demand transit could help cities reduce traffic by 15% to 30%... Their convenience and flexibility improve the user experience over fixed-route mass transit while bringing good jobs within reach of neighborhoods poorly served by the status quo.”
Transportation accounts for 29% of US greenhouse gas emissions, more than any other industry, with personal cars being the primary culprit.”
Demand-responsive transport has the ability to increase safe mobility along with equitable access to transport, reducing both environmental and traffic congestion, and building local support for public programs (including transport!). By relying on adaptable technology, communities can build networks that are nimble, accessible, and connect passengers to the services they need now more than ever.
Building a demand-responsive transport service from scratch can feel overwhelming, especially given the misconceptions around their cost, efficiency, and longevity. Read on for our responses to some of the most common DRT myths.
COVID-19 hit transport hard but, with a little creativity, some public transport authorities are bouncing back. Watch transport leaders from the United Kingdom and New Zealand discuss their DRT success stories.