Integrated Demand Responsive Transport (iDRT): A Preliminary Study
Executive Summary
- Introduction: The report explores the potential of integrating demand-responsive transport (DRT) into urban public transport networks, focusing on a digital-enabled model called iDRT.
- Market and Technology: Digital DRT services like Uber, Didi, and Lyft have transformed mobility but have largely failed to integrate with broader public transport systems. A new integrated approach (iDRT) could offer significant benefits.
- Key Findings:
- Operational Model: An iDRT service in DRTville (a hypothetical city based on real UK data) shows improved financial outcomes compared to low-frequency buses. It reduces travel times and costs while enhancing user satisfaction.
- Scenarios: The study examines various scenarios, including the integration of multiple occupancy taxi journeys, which could make the service profitable.
- Financial Summary: The iDRT service is expected to be more cost-effective and financially viable compared to traditional low-frequency buses.
- Implementation: The business model focuses on maximizing vehicle occupancy and leveraging the interaction between taxi and bus users. It presents opportunities for various stakeholders, including city authorities, transport operators, and digital newcomers.
Key Points
- Feasibility: The study tests the feasibility of replacing low-frequency buses with iDRT services, connecting them to high-frequency bus routes.
- User Experience: Users benefit from faster and more convenient journeys at comparable costs.
- Stakeholder Value Propositions: Each stakeholder group (city authorities, transport operators, etc.) can derive unique benefits from iDRT.
- Global Applicability: The iDRT model is versatile and can be applied globally, enhancing public transport in urban areas.
Conclusions
- Future Vision: The report envisions a future where iDRT services become common, offering real-time, strategic-scale, integrated, and collaboratively-developed digital transport solutions.
- Challenges: The future of iDRT is uncertain, depending on the actions of bus companies, digital newcomers, taxi companies, and local authorities.
Future Steps
- Implementation: Cities should consider DRT as a strategic mode rather than a technology, identify areas where iDRT can fit, and leverage it to enable Mobility-as-a-Service.
- Call to Action: Cities are encouraged to be bold in implementing iDRT to improve public transport, reduce costs, and enhance overall urban living conditions.
This summary captures the main points and key findings of the report, highlighting the potential benefits and challenges of integrating iDRT into urban transport networks.
