October 14, 2020 (COLUMBUS, Ohio) — A first-of-its kind mobility solution is transforming public transit in parts of Columbus, Gahanna and New Albany. The Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) is partnering with Via, a public mobility solutions innovator, to provide the only full-time on-demand bus service in the United States. In the first three weeks of service, COTA//Plus Bus On-Demand customers averaged 13-minute wait times to be transported to any transit stop within their defined zone, including John Glenn International Airport, during regular service hours, seven days a week.
“As Central Ohio gets back to work, COTA is not just resuming some of our suspended service; we are reimagining it,” said COTA Chief Innovation Officer, Sophia Mohr. “Through our partnership with Via, COTA//Plus Bus On-Demand is providing residents of Northeast Franklin County with service that meets their immediate and specific needs. We are excited to explore how other neighborhoods can benefit from this innovative solution and connect more people to our transit system.”
“Dynamic, on-demand transit is a powerful tool to expand access to professional, economic and social opportunities for communities in the Columbus region,” said Via CEO and Co-Founder, Daniel Ramot. “We are proud to work with COTA to introduce an innovative transit solution, powered by technology, that complements and extends the existing public transit infrastructure, and meet the needs of residents with increased efficiency, affordability and convenience.”
COTA//Plus Bus On-Demand transports multiple customers who hail a transit vehicle at the nearest transit stop through the COTA//Plus app. Northeast Franklin County customers formerly relied on three fixed route lines – 25, 35 and 45 – which were suspended in May due to low ridership, as many were working remotely or furloughed as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Wait times between transit vehicles on those lines ranged from 30 minutes to 45 minutes to rush hour-only service. COTA//Plus Bus On-Demand responds to customers within 15 minutes.
To ensure social distancing, COTA On-Demand transit vehicles are limited to 10 customers, while larger fixed-route vehicles are limited to 20 customers. Passengers and operators are required to wear masks while on board any COTA transit vehicle. COTA has an extensive cleaning and sanitization protocols, including sanitizing all transit vehicles from three to five times a day, treating all surfaces with an antimicrobial solution, and doubling the sanitization of 118 transit shelters.
The service is COTA’s second on-demand venture with Via following the launch of the COTA Plus microtransit network in 2019.
About COTA
COTA is the recipient of the 2018 and 2020 American Public Transportation Association’s Outstanding Public Transportation Award and provides 19 million passenger trips in Central Ohio each year. As the region’s mobility solutions provider, COTA is driven each day to solve the mobility needs of the community by utilizing technology and data, establishing community partnerships and applying sustainability principles that provide equitable access to jobs, healthcare and education.
About Via
Founded in 2012, Via pioneered the TransitTech category by using new technologies to power public mobility systems, optimizing networks of dynamic shuttles, buses, wheelchair accessible vehicles, school buses, and autonomous vehicles around the globe. Building the world’s most efficient, equitable, and sustainable transportation network for all riders — including those with limited mobility, those without smartphones, and unbanked populations — Via works with its partners to lower the cost of public transit and provide accessible options that rival the convenience of a personal car at a much reduced environmental impact. At the intersection of transportation and technology, Via is a visionary market leader that combines software innovation with sophisticated service design and operational expertise to fundamentally improve the way the world moves, with 150 global partners on six continents, and counting.
September 23, 2020 (Edmonton, AB) — To ensure all Edmontonians can connect to the City’s new bus network next year, Edmonton Transit Service (ETS) has selected Pacific Western Transportation (PWT) and Via Transportation to launch Canada’s largest On-Demand Transit service.
A total of 57 shuttle buses will conveniently and safely connect residents in select neighbourhoods with a nearby transit hub. These accessible shuttles do not follow fixed routes and only operate upon request. The On-Demand Transit service, which will add a new layer to ETS’ integrated transit network, is set to launch in mid-2021 and will be part of a two-year pilot project.
Edmontonians will be able to book a ride directly from their smartphone using an app, a telephone, or a website. A shuttle bus with a professionally trained driver will take customers from designated stops in their neighbourhood to nearby transit hubs. This shared ride service provides quick and efficient trips by using Via’s advanced trip planning software to match multiple passengers headed in the same direction.
“As Edmonton continues to grow and evolve, we are looking for creative transportation solutions to keep our residents connected. That’s one of the reasons we are excited to work with PWT and Via as partners to provide On-Demand Transit given their strong experience operating on-demand service in Western Canada and applying their technology globally,” said Eddie Robar, Branch Manager of Edmonton Transit Service.
“We are immensely proud to partner with Pacific Western and the City of Edmonton to debut Canada’s largest on-demand public transportation network, connecting more residents to transit than ever before,” said Via CEO and co-founder Daniel Ramot. “Via’s technology provides a flexible mobility solution that currently enables more than 150 partners around the globe to transform the way people move, using technology to usher in the next generation of mass transit. The launch of Edmonton’s new on-demand service represents a milestone in Canada, and an opportunity for innovation-forward cities and transit agencies to follow.”
PWT has been leading the Canadian new mobility market since 2017 by offering solutions in the realm of On-Demand Transit, Autonomous Vehicles, and Mobility-as-a-Service (MaaS) in Alberta, British Columbia, and Ontario. With its flourishing On-Demand Transit systems operating in Calgary, Cochrane, and Okotoks, PWT has the proven operational expertise and resources to successfully manage On-Demand Transit service in Edmonton.
Edmonton’s On-Demand Transit service will operate during peak and off-peak hours in approximately 30 communities and provide service to 18 large seniors residences. These sites, which were selected based on a number of factors, will be provided a flexible connection to the new bus network that is rolling out in mid-2021. Edmonton is one of many municipalities, like Sault Ste. Marie, that are choosing on-demand transit options for neighbourhoods where it is a better fit than conventional bus service.
About Via:
Founded in 2012, Via pioneered the TransitTech category by using new technologies to develop public mobility systems — optimizing networks of buses, shuttles, wheelchair accessible vehicles, school buses, autonomous vehicles, and electric vehicles around the globe. Building the world’s most efficient, equitable, and sustainable transportation network for all riders — including those with limited mobility, those without smartphones, and unbanked populations — Via works with its partners to lower the costs of public transit while providing transportation options that rival the convenience of a personal car while reducing the environmental impact. At the intersection of transportation and technology, Via is a visionary market leader that combines software innovation with sophisticated service design and operational expertise to fundamentally improve the way the world moves, with 150 global partners on six continents, and counting.
14 April 2020 (Kent, UK) — In response to the COVID-19 crisis, Sevenoaks bus services 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 8, operated by Go Coach, will temporarily be replaced by a new on-demand service from next week.
The three-month trial period is taking place because of falling passenger numbers and uncertainty surrounding the coronavirus pandemic.
The protection of bus services for key workers, such as NHS staff, and for those that have no choice other than bus, has been the key task of operators and Kent County Council’s public transport team over the past few weeks.
KCC Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport Michael Payne said: “I’m grateful to Go Coach and my team at Kent Public Transport who have been able to react to the current situation and put this trial in place which offers the best possible service they can with the limited bus driver resource currently available.
“As the coronavirus pandemic continues with a country-wide shut down, bus passenger numbers in Kent have dropped dramatically. Kent Public Transport have worked hard with the operators to ensure services continue as best as they are able, whilst at the same time supporting the sustainability of their business operations.
“With this bookable service, which we have helped fund, residents will continue to be able to make crucial journeys to the shops, work or for medication, at no extra cost beyond their regular bus fares at this time.
“Those booking the service will be able to travel to anywhere within Sevenoaks, without the need to change bus, and additional links to Pembury, Orpington, Queen Mary’s and Princess Royal hospitals have been added to support those NHS workers who rely on public transport.”

Branded Go2, the service will be bookable using a mobile app developed and powered by ViaVan, operating like a shared taxi, meaning that journeys will be made only when and where they are required. Users can download the app in the iOS and Google Play store starting April 14.
The service will run between 6am and 6pm, Monday to Saturday and will usually pick passengers up within half an hour.
Austin Blackburn, owner of Go Coach said: “I’m very proud to be doing something positive to help our passengers during these very difficult times and whilst I appreciate it is not ideal, I hope it will help those that need to travel.
“Developing Go2 would not have been possible in such a short time without the commitment of our staff and our partners at KCC and ViaVan, which has provided the technology to make this work. I’m also pleased to say that passengers will be able to exercise social distancing on this new service.”
Via the Go2 app, users will be able to track their bus’s movements both for pick-up times and any changes to arrival estimates.
Chris Snyder, CEO of ViaVan said: “We are proud to partner with Go Coach to provide residents in Sevenoaks with a convenient, affordable, and efficient new form of public transport. And knowing that getting critical staff to work reliably and safely has never been more important, we are eager to adapt the Go2 network to support essential mobility for critical healthcare workers during these challenging times.”
Current bus fares will continue to apply, and people with bus passes can continue to take advantage of the concessionary schemes.
The new service starts on April 14 and further information can be found at www.go-coach.co.uk.
About ViaVan
ViaVan is the leading provider of innovative on-demand shared transit services in Europe. ViaVan was founded in 2017 as a joint venture between Via, the world’s most sophisticated developer of dynamic shared ride technology, and Mercedes-Benz Vans, the leading manufacturer of iconic passenger and cargo vans. Working closely with cities and public transit operators, ViaVan powers dynamic mobility services that complement existing transportation infrastructure. ViaVan operates direct-to-consumer services in London, Amsterdam and Milton Keynes, and on-demand services in partnership with major public transit authorities, including the BerlKönig with Berliner Verkehrsbetriebe (BVG). Through their partnership, Mercedes-Benz Vans and Via are also collaborating on the development of advanced mobility solutions, from sensor technology, to electric vehicle fleet management, to autonomous driving. With more than 100 launched and pending deployments in 20 countries, Via and ViaVan have provided more than 80 million rides to date. For more information, visit www.viavan.com.
April 7, 2020 (Abu Dhabi, UAE) — Via, the company that provides digital infrastructure to power public mobility in cities around the world, today launched a new on-demand essential transportation system in Abu Dhabi to provide free rides for medical workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Powered by Via and deployed in partnership with the leading transport operator United Trans and Abu Dhabi’s Integrated Transport Centre (ITC), of the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT), the city’s essential healthcare workers now have a safe and reliable way to travel between their home and place of work during the coronavirus public health crisis.
As an appreciation for healthcare workers through the city, Abu Dhabi Healthcare Link is completely free, courtesy of ITC. Employees simply enter a rider code provided by their hospital in the mobile app, and they’ll instantly be able to book a ride to and from their home and place of work. The new on-demand transportation service is available from 6 p.m. to 8 a.m., as fixed-route public transportation is scaled back as a preventative measure to limit the spread of coronavirus.
Using the all-new Abu Dhabi Healthcare Link app (iOS and Android), medical employees will be able to hail a 14-seat Mercedes-Benz Sprinter directly from their smartphone. Via’s advanced algorithms will enable multiple riders to seamlessly share the vehicle, with a maximum of six healthcare workers allowed in one Sprinter to ensure adequate space for social distancing. Via’s powerful technology picks up multiple passengers in a seamless flow, allowing for quick and efficient shared trips without lengthy detours, or inconvenient fixed routes and schedules.
“Getting critical staff to work reliably and safely has never been more important,” says Daniel Ramot, co-founder and CEO of Via. “Digitally-enabled transport services like the Abu Dhabi Healthcare Link can play a key role in allowing public transport to adapt to demand amidst rapidly changing situations. We are proud to apply our technology and operational expertise to support essential mobility for critical healthcare workers in Abu Dhabi during these challenging times.”

The ITC adds it will study ridership closely, with plans to expand the new on-demand microtransit service to 24 hours a day should demand indicate broader service hours. Its expansion would support and complement existing transportation provided by hospitals.
Abu Dhabi Healthcare Link is deployed in partnership with the leading transportation provider United Trans, which has successfully completed projects with the RTA, Etihad Rail, Dubai Metro, Dubai International Airport, Al Maktoum International Airport, and Oman Airport Management Company.
“We feel incredibly honoured and grateful to partner with Via to develop this platform for the Abu Dhabi ITC. UAE has always led by example and this new service is no exception. We are going through unprecedented times, and we hope that this new service will support the healthcare staff that are tirelessly working round the clock to help save lives.” said Ahmad Bin Eisa Alserkal, Chairman of United Trans (member of Alserkal Group of Companies).
The ITC in Abu Dhabi now joins a number of high-profile transportation agencies turning to Via to help develop the next generation of public transportation, specifically during the COVID-19 pandemic. Cities like Berlin, Timaru, and Malta have each deployed similar on-demand emergency transportation services to quickly and efficiently transport essential workers and goods, like groceries and medical supplies.
Via is now working with nearly 100 partners in more than 20 countries to help connect more people to transit including the Los Angeles Metro, Transport for London (TfL), Sydney’s Transport for New South Wales (TfNSW), and Berlin’s Berliner Verkehrsbetriebe (BVG). To learn more, visit www.ridewithvia.com.
About Via
Via is re-engineering public transit, from a regulated system of rigid routes and schedules to a fully dynamic, on-demand network. Via’s mobile app connects multiple passengers who are headed the same way, allowing riders to seamlessly share a premium vehicle. First launched in New York City in September 2013, the Via platform operates in the United States and in Europe through its joint venture with Mercedes-Benz Vans, ViaVan. Via’s technology is also deployed worldwide through dozens of partner projects with public transportation agencies, private transit operators, taxi fleets, private companies, and universities, seamlessly integrating with public transit infrastructure to power cutting-edge on-demand mobility. For more information, visit www.platform.ridewithvia.com.
MyWay by Metro was rushed into service ahead of schedule last Thursday as Environment Canterbury responds to the COVID-19 lockdown.
Environment Canterbury’s South Canterbury Councillor, Peter Scott, said that providing the on-demand service was a natural move to meet the needs of the Timaru community.
“When it became clear earlier in the week that public transport was going to continue during the lockdown, our team quickly decided to move to introducing MyWay. The service was already in the fourth week of its nine-week pilot, so it was a logical move, and has removed the need to run the fleet of large buses to meet the lower demand during the lockdown.”
“It’s been excellent to see how staff have been able to use MyWay to respond innovatively in a crisis. The on-demand service performs well in this situation because it offers more flexibility, and reaches all of Timaru. This is helping people from across our community access the essential services they need, rather than the limited destinations served by the fixed route service,” he said.
Senior Manager Public Transport Stewart Gibbon said that the community has responded favourably, with use of the service steadily growing over its first week in operation.
“We started on Thursday last week with 30 trips, and yesterday, we carried 48 people,” he said.
“We are deeply appreciative of the excellent work done by Ritchies to assist us in enabling this service. The drivers and operational staff are doing an outstanding job, helping our community and keeping everyone safe,” he added.
The service is available for essential trips only. This includes essential service workers – from medical staff to supermarket workers – as well as people accessing medical services and doing supermarket shopping. Passengers travel at no cost during the lockdown, and the service operates corner to corner, rather than door to door.
MyWay is operating longer hours than it did in the pilot, filling the gap left by the fixed route buses by running 7am to 7pm, seven days a week.
MyWay’s technology partner, Via, has several operational on-demand services around the world providing similar essential services.
Via co-founder and CEO, Daniel Ramot, said that by building on its deep understanding of transit networks, ability to provide efficient on-demand and pre-scheduled transport, and highly modular platform, Via is actively supporting cities like Timaru during this critical time.
“We were impressed to see how quickly the MyWay by Metro team were able to operationalise their service, taking it from its pilot stage into service in a matter of days.
“During this emergency period, we are proud to apply our technology and operational expertise to assist cities like Timaru with optimising their service to meet the needs of the local community,” he said.
Before the COVID-19 crisis, launch of the service was planned for 20 April, when the on-demand service would replace the Grantlea, Watlington and Gleniti services for a few months before eventually also phasing out the Timaru Link. Stewart Gibbon says his team is now considering the next steps.
Keep up to date with MyWay by Metro on Facebook, or learn more about how it works at www.mywaybymetro.co.nz.
March 9, 2020 (DUBAI, UAE) — Via, the world’s leading provider and developer of public mobility solutions, today launched a new on-demand public transportation deployment in Dubai in partnership with United Trans, a leading transportation operator, and Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). The new service called Dubai Bus on Demand is designed to seamlessly connect more riders to transport hubs throughout the city, increasing the adoption of public transportation use over private vehicles, and reducing traffic congestion and pollution caused by carbon emissions.
“We are thrilled to partner with our innovative friends at the Road & Transport Authority to bring Via’s technology to the United Arab Emirates,” said Daniel Ramot, co-founder and CEO of Via. “The all-new Dubai Bus on Demand service is an excellent example of how public transportation and technology can work together to make a city smarter. Dubai is truly embracing the future of mobility by providing its residents a more comfortable, convenient, and affordable way to move around.”
Using the all-new Dubai Bus on Demand app (iOS and Android), riders will be able to hail a vehicle directly from their smartphone in specific zones surrounding major transportation hubs. Via’s advanced algorithms will enable multiple riders to seamlessly share the vehicle. The powerful technology will direct passengers to a nearby virtual bus stop within a short walking distance for pick up and drop off, allowing for quick and efficient shared trips without lengthy detours, or inconvenient fixed routes and schedules.
The initiative provides service to areas with low demand for public transport, reduces operational costs, integrates with existing public transport, and reduces riders’ wait times.
Dubai Bus on Demand serves locations throughout the city including Al Barsha, Dubai Internet City, International City, The Greens, and Silicon Oasis. Using Via’s technology, the RTA is able to solve Dubai’s first- and last-mile challenge of getting residents to existing transportation infrastructure in a comfortable, flexible, and affordable manner.
“The Dubai Bus on Demand service is a mobility mode that contributes to easing the first- and last-mile challenge,” said Ahmed Bahrozyan, CEO of Public Transport Agency, RTA. “It involves deploying on-demand minibuses via a smart app in specific areas of Dubai. Following successful trials on this vital service, RTA decided to officially launch the service in certain communities.”
“During the trial operation phase, RTA verified the service efficiency parameters namely accessibility to riders, response time, and the transit time. A survey was carried out at metro stations to screen the needs, ideas and views of residents about the service before the full operation so that the service can measure up to their expectations of safe and smooth transport,” added Bahrozyan.

The Dubai Bus on Demand service is operated and managed by United Trans, a subsidiary of the Alserkal Group.
“We are really excited to partner with Via and RTA in creating this new mode of transport,” said Ahmad Bin Eisa Alserkal, Chairman of Alserkal Group. “This innovative mobility solution will further contribute to Dubai’s status as one of the leading smart cities in the world. In the initial weeks, we have been receiving excellent feedback from the public and we look forward to expanding this partnership with the RTA.”
The initiative was also based on optimal land use, projected passenger use cases, average individual incomes, age groups, population density, avoiding competition with current public transit infrastructure, and requests received from the public.
Dubai Bus on Demand is operated by the leading transportation provider United Trans, which has successfully completed projects with the RTA, Etihad Rail, Dubai Metro, Dubai International Airport, Al Maktoum International Airport, and Oman Airport Management Company.
The RTA and United Trans now join a number of high-profile transportation agencies turning to Via to help develop the next generation of public transportation. Via is now working with nearly 100 partners in more than 20 countries to help connect more people to transit including the Los Angeles Metro, Transport for London (TfL), Sydney’s Transport for New South Wales (TfNSW), and Berlin’s Berliner Verkehrsbetriebe (BVG). To learn more, visit www.ridewithvia.com.
About Via
Via is reimagining how the world moves, from regulated systems with rigid routes and schedules to fully dynamic networks. Via’s mobile app connects multiple passengers who are headed the same way, allowing riders to seamlessly share a premium vehicle. First launched in New York City in 2013, Via’s technology is now deployed globally, including in Europe as ViaVan. Today Via and ViaVan partner with nearly 100 public transportation agencies, private transit operators, taxi fleets, private companies, school districts, and universities, seamlessly integrating with transportation infrastructure to power cutting-edge mobility. For more information, visit ridewithvia.com.
2 March 2020 (TEES VALLEY, UK) — ViaVan, the joint venture between global on-demand shared transport experts Via and Mercedes-Benz Vans, today announced a new demand responsive transport system in Tees Valley in partnership with Stagecoach Group, a leading public transport provider in the United Kingdom. Called Tees Flex, the new service aims to provide a new form of public transport focused on comfort, flexibility, and affordability, while reducing traffic congestion and pollution caused by carbon emissions.
Tees Flex is powered by nine new Mercedes-Benz Sprinters, funded by the Tees Valley Mayor and Combined Authority. The service aims to provide reliable, convenient transport for residents in more isolated communities across the region, with rides costing as little as 50p — or even free for some residents.
Using the all-new Tees Flex app (iOS and Android), riders will be able to hail a ride in a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter directly from their smartphone, via a website, or over the phone. ViaVan’s advanced algorithms will enable multiple riders to seamlessly share the vehicle. The powerful technology will direct passengers to a nearby virtual bus stop within a short walking distance for pick up and drop off, allowing for quick and efficient shared trips without lengthy detours, or inconvenient fixed routes and schedules.
“Over the next few years, we’re increasingly going to see cities and towns asking how they can provide their residents with transportation that provides the same ease and convenience as private car ownership, and yet still achieves the same environmental and congestion-reducing benefits of mass transport,” said Chris Snyder, CEO of ViaVan. “We are proud to partner with Stagecoach to provide residents of Tees Valley with a convenient, affordable, and congestion-reducing shared transportation alternative that creates a viable alternative to private car usage.”
Service began on 24 February across three zones: Darlington and Stockton; Hartlepool; and Redcar and Cleveland. Users can request a ride within the service areas, and to destinations outside the designated zones, including train stations and hospitals. Tees Flex will also serve Teesside International Airport.
With the launch of Tees Flex, local residents in more rural communities, from students and families to the elderly, will have the opportunities to get around the region region quickly, easily, cheaply and in comfort.
The pilot, which will run for three years, and has the potential to be extended across the region if successful.
Tees Valley now joins cities across the UK partnering with ViaVan to power on-demand transport networks, including London, Milton Keynes, Liverpool, Oxford, and Leicester.
Beyond the UK, Via and ViaVan have been tapped by cities and transportation players around the world to help re-engineer public transport from a regulated system of rigid routes and schedules to a fully dynamic, on-demand network. Via and ViaVan now have nearly 100 partnerships in more than 20 countries. To learn more, visit www.viavan.com.
About ViaVan
ViaVan is a leading provider of innovative on-demand shared transport services in Europe. ViaVan was founded in 2017 as a joint venture between Via, the world’s leading provider and developer of on-demand public mobility, and Mercedes-Benz Vans, the leading manufacturer of iconic passenger and cargo vans. Working closely with cities and public transport operators, ViaVan powers dynamic mobility services that complement existing transportation infrastructure. Through their partnership, Mercedes-Benz Vans and Via are also collaborating on the development of advanced mobility solutions, from sensor technology, to electric vehicle fleet management, to autonomous driving. For more information, visit www.viavan.com.
February 18, 2020 (GOIÂNIA, BRAZIL) — CityBus 2.0, the first on-demand public transport service in Latin America, celebrated one year of service in Goiânia this month, serving more than 80,000 riders since launching on February 11, 2019. Powered by Via and operated in partnership with one of Brazil’s largest transit companies, HP Transportes Coletivos, CityBus 2.0 is responsible for eliminating more than 64 tons of CO2 emissions, with the success of the service drawing attention from other Latin American cities like Fortaleza interested in replicating the innovative transportation project.
CityBus 2.0 initially launched a test period with 15 minibuses that covered 11 neighborhoods in the center of the capital. In July, the service expanded to another 13 neighborhoods, covering approximately 40.8 square kilometers, and in November, another five neighborhoods were added to the service zone, covering a 43-square-kilometer stretch of Goiânia.
In its first year, the CityBus 2.0 fleet of 40 vehicles covered a total distance of 1,172,095 kilometers — the equivalent of three trips to the moon. It is estimated that during this period, the service removed 6,500 vehicles from the streets of the capital, Goiás, as 81 percent of CityBus 2.0 customers would have traditionally chosen individual modes of transport (car, motorcycle, ride hailing apps, etc.), according to a survey conducted by the National University of Brasilia (UNB).
“Because it’s a shared service, the customer just has to travel a few meters to wait for their pickup, which ensures faster travel on more optimized routes,” said Hugo Santana, director of transportation at HP Transportes. “During the day, it is just a few steps, sometimes less than the usual walk between our parked car and final destination. And at night, we still strive to reduce the walk to improve passenger safety.”
Improving CityBus 2.0 for riders
Over the course of the year, multiple improvements were made to CityBus 2.0, often as a direct result of rider feedback. The vehicles, already outfitted with comfortable seats and air conditioning, also received plugs and USB chargers for cell phones, in addition to security cameras for monitoring trips, offering security for both drivers and customers. As for trip planning, passengers are now able to choose between two estimated arrival times. Plus, the service was also extended to Sundays, as requested by customers.
Bank employee Maurício Acedo de Aquino has used the service since it launched, increasing his number of weekly trips from two to 10 after the service expansions. He considers the service a great cost benefit for everything it delivers.
“As public transport, it is very well executed,” said Maurício Acedo de Aquino. “In addition to comfort and convenience, the service provided by all drivers is spectacular. I’ve never had a negative experience, and I am always treated very well. CityBus 2.0 makes us rethink needing a car even more, as cities are not prepared for the constant increase of individual transport.”
CityBus 2.0 already has 80,000 registered mobile customers on iOS and Android, with the app achieving a 4.8 star review. The best rated aspects include driver conduct, which remains in first place, comfort and cleanliness of the minibuses, and stops/routing. Overall, 98 percent of customers recommend the service.
“There are times when it is more feasible to use CityBus 2.0 than an Uber,” said entrepreneur Leonardo Coifman, who added that he’s used the service since it launched in early 2019. “This is much better, also taking into consideration the amount spent on owning your own car.”
An on-demand model in Brazil
The success of CityBus 2.0 in Goiânia also serves as inspiration for other cities throughout Brazil. In December, Fortaleza launched TopBus+, an on-demand public transport service similar to CityBus 2.0, and also powered by Via. Operated by the Union of Passenger Transport Companies of the State of Ceará (Sindiônibus), TopBus+ makes the capital of Ceará the second Brazilian city to offer such a service.
Sindiônibus will also launch CityBus DF in the Federal District of Brazil in April, which will initially circulate in the region of Samambaia, Recanto das Emas, and Riacho Fundo II. Urbi Urban Mobility, a company that is part of the HP Transportes group, will carry out this service.
“We want to implement the CityBus experience and a new culture of mobility in the Federal District. When our customer leaves his car at home and travels with us, he can take the time to work, read, talk, and even decrease traffic in the city,” explained Indiara Ferreira, executive director of HP Transportes.
In the first half of this year, additional neighborhoods will be included in a new expansion.
“As with the other expansions, all improvements were made based on requests and suggestions from our customers. We are studying the sectors with the greatest requests to enable the expansion of the operation,” said Santana.
Goiânia, Fortaleza, and the Federal District of Brazil are now three of nearly 100 cities Via partners with around the world to provide on-demand public transportation. Other major public transit authorities using Via’s technology include Los Angeles Metro, Transport for London (TfL), Sydney’s Transport for New South Wales (TfNSW), and Berlin’s Berliner Verkehrsbetriebe (BVG).
CityBus 2.0 in one year
- Registered customers: More than 80,000 registered users, which is enough people to fill almost two Serra Dourada stadiums.
- Service Rating: 4.9 stars with 98 percent of customers recommending the service.
- Distance: 1,172,095 kilometers traveled, the equivalent of going to the moon three times.
- Number of vehicles removed from the streets: 6,500, which is the equivalent of filling the entire Serra Dourada Stadium parking lot and still have 500 vehicles left over.
- CO2 not emitted into the atmosphere: 64 tons, equivalent to the CO2 absorption of more than 392,638 adult trees from the Atlantic Forest.
The world is entering the golden age of embracing Mobility as a Service (MaaS), with cities around the globe turning to shared bikes, scooters, and on-demand vehicles to move around their communities.
Perhaps one of the biggest trends in MaaS, however, is the dramatic adoption of shared on-demand public transportation. Previously, individuals were likely faced with two often unappetizing choices: either sink enormous sums of money into owning a car, or spend valuable time navigating bus travel that may be inconvenient, if available at all.
Ridership in major U.S., European, and Chinese cities declined by 50-90% from pre-crisis levels.
The result: overall transit ridership in the United States has declined by nearly five percent over the last decade, driven by a cumulative 15 percent decline in bus ridership over the same period, according to KPMG.
Those numbers, though, represent transit before COVID-19. The pandemic only dramatized the decline as fewer people than ever turn to public transportation – ridership in major U.S., European, and Chinese cities declined by 50-90% from pre-crisis levels. And yet, at the same time, efficient public transit is as important as ever before. Essential workers need to get to their places of work; healthcare workers need to get to hospitals in major cities where personal cars are scarce; and delivery workers need access to transit to deliver goods. And, as cities start moving again, transit needs to be flexible and use existing resources in new ways to address shifts in demand. Public transportation in most places as we know it has to adapt.
That’s why many cities are considering dynamically routed, on-demand microtransit solutions, which blend the best of public transport with ride-hailing’s most popular features. Travelers can request an inexpensive shuttle that picks them up at a nearby corner within a few minutes. Vehicles are then dynamically routed to the final destination, with the ability to pick up other travelers heading in the same direction along the way, shifting with evolving safety requirements.
Microtransit networks can either blanket a whole city or work in tandem with existing transportation infrastructure, acting as an on-demand link to high-frequency transit hubs and light rail stations. And as shelter-in-place measures are lifted and communities go back to work slowly, on-demand microtransit technology can be applied to traditional fixed lines, adapting quickly in order to abide by physical distancing regulations, contact tracing, and safety and sanitary measures.
The idea is nothing new, but the task is difficult to perfect. Dial-a-ride services like Australia’s Telebus offered “on-demand” rides a decade ago, but customers needed to book 24-hours in advance, and it was notoriously unreliable, and failed to gain traction with riders. In New York City, lawmakers are calling-out Access-A-Ride for failing to provide anything close to high-quality service for its 170,000 paratransit riders.
For transit networks to effectively reverse declining bus ridership, they’ll need to design a bespoke service that meets the unique needs of their riders and addresses safety concerns during this unique time.

Determine What Riders Need
Every city is different, and therefore has specific and unique problems it is trying to address with on-demand public transportation.
Just as every community has its own unique needs, microtransit can address a seemingly endless list of mobility concerns and adapt accordingly.
Cities like Cupertino, CA and Montgomery County, MD offer concessions for students, seniors, and those with disabilities, often cutting ride costs by 50 percent, or making them entirely free for qualifying riders.
In the Boston suburb of Newton, MA, the city launched a new microtransit service called NewMo that caters specifically to its growing population of seniors over 60 years old. To accommodate seniors with limited mobility, NewMo includes wheelchair accessible vehicles (WAVs), and all vehicles are retrofitted with a stepping stool and additional handles to facilitate an easy and safe boarding experience.
In collaboration with Newton’s Senior Center, all drivers provide high-touch support, including proactively assisting riders with bags and automatically opening the van’s sliding door upon arrival. Plus, in recognition of lower smartphone adoption among older adults, the service allows riders to book on-demand or pre-scheduled rides through the mobile app or over the phone. All phone operators receive senior sensitivity training, including expectations to speak slowly and repeat instructions.
Just as every community has its own unique needs, microtransit can address a seemingly endless list of mobility concerns and adapt accordingly. There is no clear blueprint for developing a microtransit service, and each one can and should be quite different in order to make it successful.

Create Microtransit Zones That Benefit the Most Riders
The first step of building an on-demand microtransit service is choosing the right operational boundaries. First determine what the goal is: to operate a first-and- last mile network around transit hubs, fill transportation gaps on weekends, cater to weekday commuters? What the service aims to achieve will paint a picture of where to operate.
But be careful: bigger isn’t always better. The larger the zone, the larger the number of possible route combinations. That means doubling the size of the service zone may necessitate tripling the number of vehicles on the road to maintain the same quality of service.
The shape of the service zone also plays a role. A square or circle may seem right in theory, but it may be harder to aggregate shared rides compared to a more strategic zone that captures riders traveling in the same direction.

Design Specific On-Demand Service Elements
Next, it’s important to consider quality of service metrics like the time it takes a vehicle to arrive and the distance riders could walk to meet their drivers for pickup at a virtual bus stop. In today’s world, it’s also important to consider advanced safety measures, like how many people should be able to share a vehicle and how often a vehicle may need to receive a heavy cleaning. These measures are both important on a regulatory level, but also, as we think about communities’ ongoing fear of re-contamination of the disease, are also important influencers of quality of service.
Via’s data shows that first-and-last mile commuter services, or those in urban environments, carry an acceptable wait time of about 4-6 minutes. However, for rural areas, wait times closer to 15 minutes can be acceptable, as other public transportation alternatives can easily be an hour if they exist at all.
Once an appropriate wait time is established, determine the acceptable walking distance to a virtual bus stop. On-demand mobility deployments can be drastically streamlined if riders walk a short distance to meet their driver, but the acceptable distance is impacted by a number of variables, like steep terrain, extreme weather, or target population (e.g., if the service is primarily geared toward the elderly). If the service is catering to those needing wheelchair access, maybe meeting at a virtual bus stop isn’t an option at all.
These service decisions, designed with the rider in mind, as well as choosing the type of vehicles and number of drivers, can quickly contribute to building an on-demand service riders love and trust.

Understand How People Want to Pay
Because the new on-demand system can act as an extension of the greater public transportation network, the price of rides should reflect other modes of transit. For example, in Seattle, on-demand rides are automatically applied as a transfer toward a trip on a bus or a light rail train.
And while riders can pay through the app with a linked credit card, it’s vital to ensure the service can accept a variety of payment methods such as cash, voucher payments, or a full integration with the transit system’s native payment system. Plus, digital payment is only growing in importance as communities try to limit interactions as much as possible to slow the spread of COVID-19.
King County Metro and Sound Transit fully integrated their new on-demand mobility service with the transit system’s ORCA Card, allowing customers to use a single payment method across the full King County transportation network. On-demand rides are automatically applied as a transfer toward a trip on a bus or a Link light rail train.
In suburban Sydney, the service Cooee Busways became one of the first demand-responsive transportation providers in Australia to fully integrate with Opal Connect, a new account-based ticketing system by Transport for New South Wales (TfNSW).
Find the Right Microtransit Partner
It’s one thing to power a dial-a-ride service with a few vehicles; it’s another thing entirely to power a microtransit service at scale with dozens or even hundreds of vehicles delivering hundreds or thousands of rides every day.
Those that choose to share data do so in the name of helping municipalities and transit agencies create a better place for everyone to live and work.
The ability to do the former usually doesn’t transfer to the latter — as the number of vehicles and rides increase, the number of possible rider/vehicle assignments and routing options grow exponentially, which requires both an algorithm and automated service management tools built to handle scale.
It’s also important to note that not every mobility technology company chooses to share their data. Some guard it closely in the name of protecting key business indicators like revenue, pricing models or demand from competitors, or in order to shield their actual environmental impact.
But those that choose to share data do so in the name of helping municipalities and transit agencies create a better place for everyone to live and work. By partnering with a company that agrees to share its data, cities can maximize the value of the microtransit service — because with so many ways to use the data, microtransit isn’t just a transportation improvement; it’s a way to improve the entire municipality.
Powering a flexible service that is continuously optimized in real time is a big technical challenge – and an ever-increasing global necessity. Transit agencies should find a partner who is not only up to the challenge, but proven in multiple markets they know how to deliver results.
January 13, 2020 (SACRAMENTO, CA) — Via, the world’s leader in public mobility solutions, today announced a new public transportation deployment in partnership with the Sacramento Regional Transit District (SacRT). The service is now the largest on-demand microtransit system in America with 42 vehicles.
Called SmaRT Ride, the new on-demand shared transit network officially launched to the public on January 6, serving nine zones throughout Sacramento, CA. The city now provides residents an unparalleled level of access to more convenient and comfortable public transportation, with SmaRT Ride also acting as a link to existing transit hubs.
“We are thrilled to partner with our innovative friends at SacRT to bring Via’s technology to Sacramento,” said Daniel Ramot, co-founder and CEO of Via. “The all-new SmaRT Ride service is now the largest on-demand microtransit project in the United States, making it an excellent example of how public transportation and technology can work together to make a city smarter.”
Using the all-new SmaRT Ride app (iOS and Android), riders will be able to hail a vehicle directly from their smartphone. Riders will also just as easily be able to book a ride by calling 916-556-0100. Via’s advanced algorithms will enable multiple riders to seamlessly share the vehicle. The powerful technology will direct passengers to a nearby virtual bus stop within a short walking distance for pick up and drop off, allowing for quick and efficient shared trips without lengthy detours, or inconvenient fixed routes and schedules.
The SmaRT Ride program first launched in February 2018 and, due to its popularity and success, is growing across the city to bring dynamic shared transportation to even more residents. The City of Sacramento tapped Via to power the new service starting in 2020, updating the existing SmaRT Ride system, and bringing new functionality for riders.
“We have seen great success with our other SmaRT Ride zones and we are excited to be able to provide this innovative mobility option to more communities,” said SacRT General Manager/CEO Henry Li. “This expansion is a huge milestone for SacRT as we continue to explore new transit options and improve access and mobility for our riders.”
The service relies on small, neighborhood-friendly shuttle buses to easily maneuver on residential streets, and the vehicles are equipped to accommodate people with disabilities. SmaRT Ride now services zones in Citrus Heights, Franklin-South Sacramento, Rancho Cordova, Arden, Carmichael, Downtown-Midtown-East Sacramento, Gerber-Calvine, Folsom, and North Sacramento.
“SacRT is truly embracing the future of mobility by providing a more comfortable, convenient, and affordable way to move around their community,” said Sacramento Board Chair and SacRT Board Chair Patrick Kennedy.
The cost to ride is only $2.50 per trip, $1.25 for those eligible for discount fare (seniors and persons with disabilities) or free for youth with the RydeFreeRT sticker or pass. Riders can also use their SacRT monthly pass. Groups of five or more are free; all riders must travel in a group of five or more from the same pick-up location to the same destination.
The new SmaRT Ride service is provided through Measure A funding. SacRT was awarded with a $12 million grant by the Sacramento Transportation Authority to help expand microtransit into new communities throughout the region.
As part of the SmaRT Ride expansion, SacRT also rolled out six electric SmaRT Ride shuttles in the Downtown-Midtown-East Sacramento service area. In the next six months, three additional electric SmaRT Ride shuttles will be operating in the Franklin-South Sacramento zone. Those three shuttles are being provided by Electrify America.
Via is a leading provider and developer of on-demand shared mobility solutions, working with cities and transportation agencies around the world to connect more people to transit. Via has partnered with some of the world’s largest public transit agencies to solve pressing transportation needs including the neighboring city of West Sacramento, the Los Angeles Metro, Transport for London (TfL), and Sydney’s Transport for New South Wales (TfNSW).
Via now powers the largest microtransit system in America with SacRT, as well as the largest such deployment in the world in partnership with the Berliner Verkehrsbetriebe (BVG) in Berlin, Germany.
About Via
Via is reimagining how the world moves, from regulated systems with rigid routes and schedules to fully dynamic networks. Via’s mobile app connects multiple passengers who are headed the same way, allowing riders to seamlessly share a premium vehicle. First launched in New York City in 2013, Via’s technology is now deployed globally, including in Europe as ViaVan. Today Via and ViaVan partner with nearly 100 public transportation agencies, private transit operators, taxi fleets, private companies, school districts, and universities, seamlessly integrating with transportation infrastructure to power cutting-edge mobility. For more information, visit ridewithvia.com.
December 4, 2019 (FORTALEZA, BRAZIL) — Via, the world’s leading provider and developer of on-demand public mobility solutions, today announced a new on-demand public transportation service in Fortaleza, Brazil called TopBus+. Operated in partnership with leading Brazilian transit operator Sindiônibus, the service aims to provide a new form of public mobility focused on comfort, flexibility, and affordability, while reducing traffic congestion and pollution caused by carbon emissions.
Using the Top Bus+ app (iOS and Android), riders will be able to hail a shuttle directly from their smartphones, promoting the use of sustainable, shared travel. Via’s advanced algorithms will enable multiple riders to seamlessly share the vehicle. The powerful technology will direct passengers to a nearby virtual bus stop within a short walking distance for pick up and drop off, allowing for quick and efficient shared trips without lengthy detours, or inconvenient fixed routes and schedules.
The TopBus+ service will initially operate with 18 Mercedes-Benz Sprinters, each with a total capacity of 13 passengers. Riders can request a ride anywhere within the Centro region, Iracema Beach, Aldeota, Mucuripe, Varjota, Papicu, City 2000, Cocó, Joaquim Távora, Fatima, Benfica, as well as some major shopping malls and area universities.
Sindiônibus selected Via as its technology partner for the service due to the company’s expertise and global presence. As the leading provider and developer of on-demand shared mobility solutions, Via partners with bus operators and transportation agencies around the world to connect more people to transit. Via has worked with some of the world’s leading operators including HP Transportes in Brazil and Arriva in the UK, as well as some of the world’s largest public transit agencies including the Los Angeles Metro, Transport for London (TfL), and Berlin’s Berliner Verkehrsbetriebe (BVG).
How TopBus + Works
Passengers in Fortaleza can download the new TopBus+ app, register for an account, and then choose how many passengers are making the trip. After selecting the pick up and drop off locations, the app will show riders their vehicle number, the driver’s name, and the meeting place where the driver will pick them up.
In order to eliminate long detours and wait times, the TopBus+ app smartly calculates pick-up and drop-off locations within a short walking distance from the passenger’s final destination, increasing efficiency. All vehicles are dynamically routed, meaning there are no fixed routes, bus schedules, or conventional bus stops.
Advantages of the New Service
TopBus+ is not only more convenient, it’s more comfortable. Each of the 18 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vans are equipped with air conditioning, padded seats, mobile phone chargers, and a modern visual identity. Plus, because there are no fixed routes, Via’s technology intelligently routes each van to bypass traffic congestion, getting riders to their destination more quickly.
Price and Payment Methods
TopBus+ charges a base fare of R$3.50 for each trip, with a fee of just R$1.50 per kilometer traveled. Plus, unlike traditional ride-hailing apps, there is no surge charges or dynamic pricing.
Traveling in a group also makes rides significantly cheaper. When one rider requests a van for multiple passengers, the total fare is much less than if each person had requested an individual ride. TopBus+ rewards groups that choose to ride together, reducing congestion in Fortaleza.
Riders can pay with credit cards and debit cards.
TopBus + is a new generation of public transportation, addressing major challenges in urban mobility like traffic and carbon emissions. By developing an efficient and cost-effective form of public transportation, TopBus+ will meet the commuting needs of people in Fortaleza.
About Sindiônibus
Sindiônibus (Union of Passenger Transport Companies of the State of Ceará) was formed by the bus companies of Fortaleza and Metropolitan Region for the study, coordination, protection and representation of the interests of the economy class in the area of public transportation. The union officially began its activities in 1951 and is composed of three areas: Operational Consortium (Planning and Operation), Transport-Voucher (Electronic Ticketing and Technology), and Headquarters (Administrative and Human Resources). There are currently 18 associated companies (11 urban and 7 metropolitan companies).
About Via
Via is reimagining how the world moves, from regulated systems with rigid routes and schedules to fully dynamic networks. Via’s mobile app connects multiple passengers who are headed the same way, allowing riders to seamlessly share a premium vehicle. First launched in New York City in 2013, Via’s technology is now deployed globally, including in Europe as ViaVan. Today Via and ViaVan partner with nearly 100 public transportation agencies, private transit operators, taxi fleets, private companies, school districts, and universities, seamlessly integrating with transportation infrastructure to power cutting-edge mobility. For more information, visit ridewithvia.com.
November 29, 2019 (TIMARU, NEW ZEALAND) — A significant milestone has been achieved as Timaru approaches its 2020 on-demand public transport trial, with the completion of contracts for both the technology provider and the vehicle operator.
“Our selected partners are ideally positioned to support this trial, combining comprehensive international expertise with in-depth local knowledge,” said Timaru Operations Manager Judith Earl-Goulet. “Their wealth of experience will enable us to accurately test the potential of the concept in our local market, and the propensity of the community to engage with it, both essential characteristics that will influence its success.”
Following a competitive bidding process, global mobility and technology expert Via has been appointed to provide the next generation on-demand technology, while incumbent local operator Ritchies was selected for the vehicle service operation.
At the same time, Environment Canterbury has been inviting members of the public to suggest a name for the new service. MyWay by Metro was created from more than 700 names received.
Using the MyWay by Metro app, passengers will be able to order a vehicle directly from their smartphone. Bookings will just as easily be made using the dedicated website, and by phone. Via’s advanced algorithms will enable multiple passengers to seamlessly share the vehicle. The powerful technology will direct passengers to a nearby virtual bus stop within a short walking distance for pick up and drop off, allowing for quick and efficient shared trips without lengthy detours, or inconvenient fixed routes and schedules.
Richard O’Keefe, Corporate Services Manager at Ritchies, said that his team was excited at the opportunity to work on a service he is sure will really appeal to the Timaru community.
“MyWay by Metro puts the customer in charge. You can go to and from anywhere you choose in Timaru, whenever it suits you; there’s no set route or timetable. You say where you want to go, when you want to be picked up and from where. It’s a really simple solution and totally based around your needs.”
Ritchies will initially operate five on-demand vehicles as well as retaining the contract to run the remaining Link, Temuka and school services. Richard O’Keefe said there will be a mixture of vehicle sizes.
“These MyWay by Metro vehicles will be capable of meeting just about every transport need, including disability access and storage for prams and bikes. Just let us know your needs when you book,” he said.
“We will also operate a call centre, so that MyWay customers have the option of calling to book as well as using the app or website. We’ll be staffing this from our Timaru depot, recognising the importance of local knowledge.”
Via powers on-demand public transport in more than 20 countries across five continents, bringing extensive experience to the Timaru trial. Via was closely involved in the feasibility study, and are incorporating key learnings and recommendations into the design of the service. Daniel Ramot, co-founder and CEO of Via said that he’s looking forward to working with an experienced local operator to make the project a success.
“We are thrilled to partner with the innovative teams at Environment Canterbury and Ritchies to bring Via’s technology to Timaru. The MyWay by Metro service demonstrates how public transportation and technology can work together to provide residents with a comfortable, convenient, and affordable way to move around. This is a great example of a city embracing the next generation of public transportation,” Ramot said.
Responses from Environment Canterbury’s work within the community has been very positive and continues to grow.
Julie Fosbender, from CCS Disability Action, said that people are really looking forward to the freedom and control provided by a public transport service that comes when you need it.
“This is an opportunity to create a more inclusive transport option for all people. Timetables have provided limited choice, resulting in people not being able to access the community. This service will give opportunities for impromptu outings that all New Zealanders should be able to enjoy.”
Judith Earl Goulet agreed, adding that MyWay by Metro makes it possible for anyone to easily connect with vital services as well as the people, places and activities they love, through the investment in smarter technology and a more sustainable, efficient system.
Councillor Sally Parker, Chair of the Timaru District Council Infrastructure Committee, has been involved with the project since its inception. She said that it is great that Timaru has been chosen to be the first in New Zealand to implement this new service.
“We’ve got a long history of innovation in this district and I’m sure that the community will embrace the opportunities that this new service provides both for traditional bus users and hopefully the huge range of new users that could benefit from it.
“As the district council we’re there to provide the infrastructure that enables people to use public transport, traditionally this was simply bus stops and some benches scattered about the city. With this new service we’ll be refocusing on the different ways of helping people get where they need to go, this could be anything from our library staff helping people to use the technology, to providing booking facilities in key high use areas.
“We’re keen to ensure that we help this service meet its potential, and we’re sure with the right support in place our forward thinking community will embrace it,” she said.
Judith Earl-Goulet said that MyWay by Metro will start early next year.
“We are now recruiting 150 people from across our community for our two-month pilot starting in February. Following that, the service is on track to launch to the public in April,” she said.
“People can keep up to date with progress on our Timaru Public Transport Facebook page, and we have plenty of information at www.metroinfo.co.nz/Timaru.”
What will MyWay by Metro cost?
Introductory fares for the 12 month trial:
- Adults: $3.00 cash | $2.00 convenience
- Children 5-17 years: $2.00 cash | $1.30 convenience
Convenience fares are for app and Metrocard payments. Children under five travel free. SuperGold card holders travel free during all off-peak times.
About Via
Via is a leading provider and developer of on-demand shared mobility solutions, working with cities and transportation agencies around the world to connect more people to transit. Via has partnered with some of the world’s largest public transit agencies to solve pressing transportation needs including the Los Angeles Metro, Transport for London (TfL), Sydney’s Transport for New South Wales (TfNSW), and Berlin’s Berliner Verkehrsbetriebe (BVG).
Via has been tapped by cities and transportation leaders around the world to help re-engineer public transit from a regulated system of rigid routes and schedules to a fully dynamic, digital network. Via now has nearly 100 launched and pending partnerships in more than 20 countries. To learn more about Via, visit platform.ridewithvia.com.
By Dillon Twombly, Chief Revenue Officer, Via
The world is undergoing a transportation revolution as cities, transit agencies, private companies and even universities expand their commitment and investment in microtransit.
The idea of developing a custom on-demand public transit network has its appeal anchored in an age where traffic congestion is at an all-time high and transit ridership continues to fall, a trend that’s only been intensified in the wake of COVID-19. Overall public transportation ridership in the United States declined by nearly 5 percent over the last decade, driven by a cumulative 15 percent decline in bus ridership over the same period, according to KPMG’s Accelerating Mobility Study.
The reason may be that the appetite for on-demand ride hailing has reached a fever pitch, and when managed improperly, cities are paying the consequences. A traffic congestion study commissioned by Uber and Lyft actually revealed the companies account for up to 14 percent of vehicle miles traveled in some cities, a reason why cities like New York are passing legislation directly aimed at how often cars cruise without passengers.
The growing interest in microtransit, however, has transportation leaders blending the best of both worlds by leveraging technology to build the public transportation of tomorrow. By recognizing that a new generation of riders want to travel on-demand, cities can build a better version of the bus — one that operates dynamically, without routes and schedules, but still promotes safe, shared trips to cut down on congestion. Plus, the flexibility that microtransit affords is more important than ever before in being able to adapt quickly as municipalities support their communities as they return to work and new routines.
For each dollar spent in operating costs per trip across all modes and all transit systems, an average of 19.2 cents are recovered through fares.
Before pulling the trigger, however, decision makers should ask themselves the following questions:

What are the specific goals?
Before doing anything, it’s important to frame the challenges that microtransit is going to solve. What is the pressing need for this type of service? King County Metro in Seattle invested in microtransit as a first-and-last mile link to five of its light rail transit hubs where parking and alternative means of transit were both sparse. In Newton, Massachusetts, city leaders were specifically interested in increasing mobility for the city’s senior population, so they developed a program catering to residents over 60-years-old. In Abu Dhabi, the city’s public transportation authority was interested in supporting healthcare workers during COVID-19 with free on-demand rides to hospitals.
Whether it’s increasing public transportation ridership, decreasing congestion, reducing the number of vehicles parked at local transit hubs, or giving residents or essential workers a more accessible way to travel, it’s important to have measurable goals before launching your microtransit service.

How will you use the on-demand transit data?
Investing in new mobility technology via a public-private partnership can help provide more convenient paratransit, eliminate transit deserts, create first-and-last mile connections to transportation hubs, and replace underutilized and inefficient bus routes — all while improving the environment by getting people out of private cars and away from single-occupancy vehicle trips.
Beyond the visible benefits, such partnerships also generate a treasure trove of data, giving transit authorities and operators a completely new vantage point into their communities’ specific needs. This data can support an array of new applications, like help leadership make major improvements to their overall transit system, understand where to shift resources to better serve riders, where to put a protected bike lane, or what low-income neighborhoods should have the most affordable public transit. It also has the potential to aid in contact tracing during a health crisis, and ensure vehicles meet sanitary and safety requirements that can help communities curb the further spread of COVID-19.
However, not every mobility technology company has always taken a collaborative approach to sharing rider data with cities and transit operators.
Public transport authorities and operators (PTAs/PTOs) should partner with companies that will share robust data to help inform important decisions, faithfully comply with regulations, and protect customer privacy. As the transportation landscape continues to evolve, finding a mobility partner that is actually willing to share data to improve public transit is just as important as finding one that is serious about data security.

How will you measure microtransit’s ROI?
Transportation professionals already know that operating quality public transit is an expensive endeavor. For each dollar spent in operating costs per trip across all modes and all transit systems, an average of 19.2 cents are recovered through fares, according to Boston Consulting Group’s 2019 report, On-Demand Transit Can Unlock Urban Mobility.
Microtransit can enable a more efficient allocation of resources in areas with under-performing fixed routes, low population density or logistically difficult to serve areas. Providing a sufficient return on investment, however, is about much more than simply evaluating the farebox recovery ratio.
On-demand microtransit networks address a huge variety of underlying community issues, so it’s important to measure ROI through a broader lens. Efficient transportation provides residents reliable access to jobs, shrinks cities, improves quality of life, and helps eliminate things like food deserts.
You shouldn’t have to live in Manhattan, or be lucky or rich enough to live near a subway line or well served bus line, to have access to high quality, convenient, and affordable public transportation. Cities and transit agencies are increasingly turning to technology to facilitate their mandate of providing accessible and equitable transportation to the rider populations they service.
What happens if you do nothing?
Public transportation ridership, along with the associated revenue, continues to decline, leading to increasingly challenging budget and transit situations for many cities. This trend, underpinned by demographic changes in public transit ridership and usage along with changing rider expectations is one that cities are increasingly trying to reverse. Microtransit and the accompanying data, flexibility and digitization it allows give the public sector one of many tools it can use to blunt these declines.
For most cities, the do-nothing scenario ends with more congestion, more vehicle emissions, and less equity for residents. Good public transportation is about so much more than traffic; it’s about impacting job opportunities, safety, and overall quality of life for residents. When doing nothing is no longer an option, it’s time to consider what’s next.
This article was updated from its original version, published on Nov. 1, 2019.
October 29, 2019 (Newcastle, AUSTRALIA) — A new real-time on-demand transport service has started in Newcastle this week. The service is a 12-month trial that is part of the Newcastle Smart City Program led by the City of Newcastle.
Newcastle On Demand will further optimize the Newcastle Transport network by giving inner-city residents a new option to reach key CBD locations or to connect with other modes of transport such as the Newcastle Interchange, light rail, existing bus services and Broadmeadow Station. It will pick up customers from a designated point within the service area and take them to a designated point close to their destination.
To deliver this service, Keolis Downer has partnered with New York-based tech company Via and car-sharing service GoGet to deliver the world-class technology that allows live bookings and provides real time information.
Keolis Downer CEO, David Franks, said Newcastle On Demand would be a dynamic public transport service that is tailored to meet individual community needs.
“Newcastle On Demand will be an easy, stress-free way to commute into the city in the morning and home in the evening.
“Through the existing on-demand service in Lake Macquarie and the other on-demand services we operate in Sydney, we have seen that these flexible transport options provide a great alternative to individual cars and encourage the use of shared mobility solutions.
“Our Lake Macquarie on-demand service has over 5,000 passenger trips each month because customers love the personalised experience and the relationships they build with our drivers.”
Via Co-founder and CEO, Daniel Ramot, said: “We’re thrilled to see continued investment in on-demand services in the Newcastle region. With this innovative on-demand approach to public transport, Newcastle continues to be a model for modern and smart cities across Australia.”
Details on the Newcastle On Demand service:
- The service commenced on Monday 28 October 2019
- The service will operate Monday to Friday, between 6:30am and 9:00am in the morning and between 3:30pm and 6:30pm in the afternoon
- Cost is $3.20 per trip. Customers can pay using their Opal card or credit/debit card
- Three vehicles will be used: two six-passenger KIA Carnivals and an 11-passenger VW Crafter with a wheelchair access
- The service can be booked using the Newcastle Transport On Demand app available on the App Store or Google Play.
- BotRide is Hyundai’s self-driving on-demand ride-sharing pilot service
- Riders can hail an autonomous Hyundai KONA Electric SUV directly from a smartphone
- Partners, Pony.ai and Via, collaborated on service development
IRVINE, Calif., Oct. 25, 2019 – Hyundai, in collaboration with Pony.ai and the global public mobility developer Via, today unveiled BotRide, a shared, on-demand, autonomous vehicle service operating on public roads. Starting on November 4, a fleet of self-driving Hyundai KONA Electric SUVs will provide a free ride-sharing service to the local community of Irvine, California. BotRide will run from November 4, 2019 through January 31, 2020 as part of the pilot phase of the program.
“The pilot introduces BotRide to several hundred Irvine residents, including college students. The goal is to study consumer behavior in an autonomous ride-sharing environment,” said Christopher Chang, head of business development, strategy and technology division, Hyundai Motor Company. “We are going to learn about ecosystems, where the vehicles travel and optimize the customer experience. BotRide, is another example of Hyundai’s ongoing efforts to actively build expertise in mobility technology as well as the company’s commitment to providing more user-friendly mobility services to customers.”
Hyundai partnered with Pony.ai to utilize their self-driving system and with Via to create the BotRide ride hailing technology and application. Using the BotRide app, riders can hail an autonomous Hyundai KONA Electric SUV directly from their smartphone. Via’s advanced algorithms enable multiple riders to share the same vehicle, outfitted with Pony.ai autonomous vehicle technology. The app directs passengers to nearby stops for pick-up and drop-off, allowing for quick and efficient shared trips without lengthy detours, or inconvenient fixed routes and schedules.
Integrated Hyundai and Pony.ai technologies enable the BotRide vehicles to navigate complex road scenarios safely. These vehicles are equipped with Pony.ai’s latest sensor hardware and proprietary software to identify the precise position of surrounding vehicles, handle pedestrian traffic in urban areas, accurately monitor its surroundings, predict the behavior of other road users, and precisely plan actions accordingly.
In addition to self-driving capabilities, BotRide is validating its user experience in preparation for a fully driverless future.
BotRide launches with multiple popular destinations where a passenger may hail a ride using the BotRide app. The service area covers several residential, commercial, and institutional points of interest. BotRide’s technology prioritizes passenger-to-system interactions such as automated onboard passenger verification, giving riders the chance to familiarize themselves with technologies expected to become commonplace in an autonomous mobility future. Each vehicle will have human co-pilots in charge of monitoring the self-driving system for additional safety. The program is only available to pre-registered riders.
BotRide Program Highlights
- SAE Level 4 autonomous vehicle technology
- Multi-party collaboration to bring to market this type of service
- All electric autonomous vehicle fleet
- Fully flexible routes
- Includes ride sharing service
- Optimized trip planning allows multiple users to share rides with minimal inconvenience
- Fully automated rider identification using QR codes
BotRide Service Overview
- Unlimited free rides in autonomous vehicles to several points of interest in Irvine
- Operating times: Mon.-Fri., 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. Sat. 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
- Via BotRide App – available for download after approved application
- Pick-up/Drop-off: 13 locations in Irvine
- Vehicles: Hyundai KONA Electric SUVs
“Through BotRide, Hyundai is leveraging cutting-edge autonomous vehicle and mobility technologies to introduce a new, safe, and convenient form of transportation to the public,” said Daniel Han, manager, Advanced Product Strategy, Hyundai Motor America. “The BotRide pilot represents an important step in the deployment and eventual commercialization of a growing new mobility business. In addition to the technology partners powering BotRide, the broader city and community ecosystem have also played an important role in making BotRide possible. The BotRide pilot can serve as an example of how cities and companies can come together to truly enable smart cities and smart transportation systems of the future.”
About Hyundai Motor Company
Established in 1967, Hyundai Motor Company is committed to becoming a lifetime partner in automobiles and beyond with its range of world-class vehicles and mobility services available in more than 200 countries. Hyundai sold more than 4.5 million vehicles globally in 2018 and is currently employing more than 110,000 employees worldwide. Hyundai Motor continues to enhance its product line-up with vehicles that are helping to build solutions for a more sustainable future, such as NEXO, the world’s first dedicated hydrogen-powered SUV.
Pony.ai
Pony.ai aims to deliver autonomous mobility everywhere by building the safest and most reliable self-driving technology. Pony.ai’s full-stack solution enables BotRide to accurately perceive its surroundings, predict what others will do, and maneuver itself safely and effectively. Pony.ai is currently testing its self-driving system in multiple geographies across the US and China. The company was founded in late 2016 and its investors include Sequoia Capital China, IDG Capital, Legend Capital, among others.
Via
Via is re-engineering public transit, from a regulated system of rigid routes and schedules to a fully dynamic, on-demand network. Via’s mobile app connects multiple passengers who are headed the same way, allowing riders to seamlessly share a premium vehicle. First launched in New York City in September 2013, the Via platform operates in the United States and in Europe through its joint venture with Mercedes-Benz Vans, ViaVan. Via’s technology is also deployed worldwide through dozens of partner projects with public transportation agencies, private transit operators, taxi fleets, private companies, and universities, seamlessly integrating with public transit infrastructure to power cutting-edge on-demand mobility. For more information, visit www.platform.ridewithvia.com.
Cooee Busways riders can now pay using Opal Connect, making Via one of the first technology providers to integrate with TfNSW’s new account-based ticketing system.
October 22, 2019 (SYDNEY) — Via, the world’s leading provider and developer of public mobility solutions, today announced the on-demand transport service Cooee Busways is officially one of the first demand-responsive transportation providers in Australia to fully integrate with Opal Connect, a new account-based ticketing system by Transport for New South Wales (TfNSW).
In partnership with leading Australian transportation provider Busways, Cooee provides first- and last- mile connections to three Sydney Metro public transportation hubs and the local shopping centre, all completely on-demand. Commuters in The Ponds, Schofields, and Kellyville Ridge use the Via-powered Cooee Busways smartphone app (iOS and Android) to request quick and efficient shared trips, enabling them to leave their personal vehicles at home.
Now Cooee Busways users will have even more flexibility with Opal Connect, a new ticketing solution that aims to provide an integrated and convenient experience for customers through a singular, trusted digital account.
Going forward, residents using Cooee Busways who sign up for Opal Connect will receive a $2 travel credit each time they transfer to Opal services like the bus, train, or Metro. They can then use that travel credit towards any future on-demand services that accept Opal, an incentive transport leaders say will turn occasional riders into daily users, further reducing congestion and emissions caused by driving single-occupancy vehicles.
“The biggest hurdle for people catching public transport is often that first and last mile,” said New South Wales Transport Minister Andrew Constance. “Our goal is to make this key part of the journey as simple and integrated as possible. This first stage of Opal Connect provides another incentive to leave the car at home and enjoy a ride on our new, state of the art Metro system.”
With Opal Connect, customers create an account via the transportnsw.info website, and then securely link their Opal card, along with their credit or debit card. Customers can then use their Opal Connect account to sign in to different transport operator’s apps to book and pay for their travel, including Via’s Cooee Busways app.
Residents using Cooee Busways have already proven their eagerness to leave their private vehicles at home, too. Riders took more than 40,000 trips with Cooee in less than five months, with 55 percent of riders saying they previously used a private vehicle to make the journey. From this, 4 percent stated they had sold their car since using Cooee Busways, with a further 43 percent considering selling their vehicle.
By integrating with Opal Connect, both Busways and Via hope to see an even larger number of commuters turn to Cooee Busways to make their journeys. Into the future, Opal Connect has the capability to become a one-stop-shop for all transport transactions and information, whether public transport, rideshare, taxis, parking,and even tolling.
Via has been tapped by cities and transportation players around the world to help re-engineer public transit from a regulated system of rigid routes and schedules to a fully dynamic, digital network. Via now has more than 90 launched and pending deployments in more than 20 countries. To learn more about Via, visit www.platform.ridewithvia.com.
About Via
Via is re-engineering public transit, from a regulated system of rigid routes and schedules to a fully dynamic, digital network. Via’s mobile app connects multiple passengers who are headed the same way, allowing riders to seamlessly share a premium vehicle. First launched in New York City in September 2013, the Via platform operates in the United States and in Europe through its joint venture with Mercedes-Benz Vans, ViaVan. Via’s technology is also deployed worldwide through dozens of partner projects with public transportation agencies, private transit operators, taxi fleets, private companies, and universities, seamlessly integrating with public transit infrastructure to power cutting-edge on-demand mobility. For more information, visit www.platform.ridewithvia.com.
About Busways
Busways Group is the largest family owned bus operator in New South Wales, Australia with 77 years’ experience providing exceptional standards of public transportation to hundreds of communities on the east coast. Busways is interested in how innovative transport solutions can enhance mobility and access for different customer groups.
With a team of over 1,500 people, committed to transporting over 21 million passengers each year, Busways prides itself on taking a proactive approach to public transport delivery to ensure the customer’s journey is as seamless as possible.
Residents
and commuters will soon be able to hail a Via anywhere within the City of
Cupertino, improving public transit and enabling easier connections to CalTrain
October
7, 2019 (CUPERTINO, CA) — The City of Cupertino will
soon offer a new on-demand public transportation network in partnership with
Via, a cutting-edge provider of on-demand public mobility solutions. Starting
October 29, residents and commuters in Cupertino will be able to use the Via
app (or phone reservation system) to hail a shuttle directly from their mobile
devices, providing more efficient connections to CalTrain and increasing
connectivity across the city.
Unlike traditional bus networks that rely on
routes and schedules, Cupertino’s new partnership with Via allows riders to
hail a shared ride right when they need it. The on-demand transit network will
span 11-square-miles — the entirety of the City of Cupertino — with a satellite
zone surrounding the Sunnyvale CalTrain station for commuters. By making public
transportation more comfortable, convenient and affordable, city leaders hope
to encourage residents to leave their private vehicles at home, reducing
traffic congestion and vehicle emissions.
“This partnership with Via is the next
generation of what public transportation can be, allowing us to increase
mobility while taking a step toward our larger goal of reducing traffic
congestion across Cupertino,” said Mayor Steven Scharf.
Using the Via app (iOS and Android), riders will be able to hail a
shuttle directly from their smartphone or tablet. Via’s advanced algorithms
will enable multiple riders to seamlessly share the same vehicle. The powerful
technology will direct passengers to a nearby virtual bus stop within a short
walking distance for pick up and drop off, allowing for quick and efficient
shared trips without lengthy detours, or inconvenient fixed routes and schedules.
“Via’s powerful technology is seamlessly
integrating with public transit infrastructure around the globe, redefining the
way people get around cities,” said Daniel Ramot, co-founder and CEO of
Via. “We’re delighted to join forces with city leadership to bring this
cutting-edge, on-demand shuttle system to Cupertino, providing residents with a
convenient, affordable, and congestion-reducing dynamic transportation
alternative.”
Via will operate at $5 per ride, with weekly
and monthly passes available for just $17 a week and $60 a month. Service will
operate Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m., and on Saturdays from 9
a.m. to 5 p.m.
In partnership with Avis Budget Group, the
service will start with six Cupertino-branded Mercedes Metris vans, which seat
six passengers in addition to a driver, growing to 10 vehicles over time. The
fleet will also include a wheelchair accessible vehicle for riders needing
greater accessibility. Avis Budget Group helps to provide turnkey fleet
management service, including maintaining the vehicles to ensure they are ready
to hit the road and provide on-demand public mobility solutions to the City of
Cupertino.
Via has been tapped by cities and
transportation players around the world to help re-engineer public transit from
a regulated system of rigid routes and schedules to a fully dynamic, on-demand
network. Neighboring cities like Los Angeles, Pacifica, Marin, West Sacramento
and Orange County also use Via’s technology to operate on-demand transit
networks, as do some of the world’s largest transportation authorities. Via now
has more than 80 launched and pending deployments in over 20 countries,
providing more than 60 million rides to date.
About
Via
Via is re-engineering public transit, from a
regulated system of rigid routes and schedules to a fully dynamic, on-demand
network. Via’s mobile app connects multiple passengers who are headed the same
way, allowing riders to seamlessly share a premium vehicle. First launched in
New York City in September 2013, the Via platform operates in the United States
and in Europe through its joint venture with Mercedes-Benz Vans, ViaVan. Via’s
technology is also deployed worldwide through dozens of partner projects with
public transportation agencies, private transit operators, taxi fleets, private
companies, and universities, seamlessly integrating with public transit
infrastructure to power cutting-edge on-demand mobility. For more information,
visit www.platform.ridewithvia.com.
The new service in cooperation with Nihon Kotsu Co., Ltd. allows employees to hail a BlueVia ride on-demand during their daily commutes and between meetings.
September 24, 2019 (TOKYO) — Via, the world’s leading provider and developer of on-demand public mobility solutions, today announced its new service BlueVia in partnership with ITOCHU Corporation, one of Japan’s largest general trading companies. BlueVia brings on-demand, dynamically routed transportation to ITOCHU’s global headquarters in Tokyo, enabling thousands of the company’s employees to hail a free, shared shuttle during daily commutes and for off-site meetings.
Starting October 1, ITOCHU employees can use the BlueVia app (iOS and Android) to hail a free shuttle on-demand directly from their smartphones. Via’s advanced algorithms enable multiple riders to seamlessly share the vehicle, delivering riders to their destinations along an optimized route while reducing traffic and carbon emissions caused by single-passenger vehicles. After requesting a ride, the powerful technology directs passengers to a nearby virtual bus stop within a short walking distance for pick up and drop off, allowing for quick and efficient shared trips without lengthy detours, or inconvenient fixed routes and schedules.
“We are thrilled to deepen our ties with ITOCHU Corporation by providing employees with a more efficient, convenient, and comfortable way to commute,” said Daniel Ramot, co-founder and CEO of Via. “ITOCHU’s bold vision to transform consumer experiences and mobility infrastructure makes the company an invaluable partner as we work to provide cutting-edge mobility solutions that are smart, efficient, and help to reduce congestion and emissions in Japan.”
BlueVia operates in cooperation with Nihon Kotsu Co., Ltd., one of Japan’s largest taxi companies. Employees can request a ride in the nearly 8-square-mile service zone in Central Tokyo around Minato-ku surrounding ITOCHU’s headquarters. BlueVia operates weekdays from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
In its medium-term management plan “Brand-new Deal 2020,” ITOCHU is working to promote the evolution of its business model with new technologies like on-demand mobility as part of efforts to become a next-generation merchant. Through this initiative, ITOCHU will both reduce costs and support the widespread adoption of on-demand ride sharing services in Japan. By partnering with Nihon Kotsu Co., Ltd., Via Japan and ITOCHU are demonstrating a future where taxi corporations and technology companies can work together to evolve mobility in Japan.
The new service follows on the heels of the August 2018 launch of HillsVia, a commuter service for Mori Building Company, and Via’s first mobility deployment in Japan. The one-year pilot program allowed Mori employees to travel between Mori properties, such as Roppongi Hills and Toranomon Hills. The successful deployment lead to a strategic partnership with Mori and ITOCHU in April 2019, officially forming Via Japan.
Via has been tapped by cities and transportation players around the world to help re-engineer public transit from a regulated system of rigid routes and schedules to a fully dynamic, on-demand network. Via now has more than 80 launched and pending deployments in more than 20 countries. To learn more about Via, visit www.platform.ridewithvia.com.
About Via
Via is re-engineering public transit, from a regulated system of rigid routes and schedules to a fully dynamic, on-demand network. Via’s mobile app connects multiple passengers who are headed the same way, allowing riders to seamlessly share a premium vehicle. First launched in New York City in September 2013, the Via platform operates in the United States and in Europe through its joint venture with Mercedes-Benz Vans, ViaVan. Via’s technology is also deployed worldwide through dozens of partner projects with public transportation agencies, private transit operators, taxi fleets, private companies, and universities, seamlessly integrating with public transit infrastructure to power cutting-edge on-demand mobility. For more information, visit www.platform.ridewithvia.com.
The partnership allows students to book a Via on-demand for free, providing more vehicles and driver hours than the university’s previous Safe Ride program.
September 18, 2019 (CHICAGO, ILLINOIS) — Via, the world’s leading provider and developer of on-demand public mobility solutions, today announced a new partnership with Northwestern University, one of the country’s leading private research and teaching universities. Starting this year, Northwestern students will be able to hail a free Via during the evening hours, safely shuttling students around the university’s Evanston, IL campus.
The decision to partner with Via comes in response to student feedback about Northwestern’s existing Safe Ride program, and after examining ridership data over the past two years. By partnering with Via, students will see a 38 percent increase in the total number of hours that drivers are available, utilizing an increased number of dedicated and trained drivers each night.
Via’s partnership with Northwestern marks the company’s third high-profile university deployment in America. Via currently operates dynamic, on-demand student shuttles at both Harvard University and Northeastern University.
“Via has a demonstrated record as a transportation partner with other universities,” said Julie Payne-Kirchmeier, Northwestern’s interim vice president for Student Affairs. “We are confident they will create a ride service that is more available and able to meet the needs of our Northwestern students.”
Isabel Dobbel, president of Northwestern’s Associated Student Government, said wait times and past app difficulties have disproportionately affected low-income students on campus.
“Many times, students would request a private ride, paid for by themselves, through a separate app,” Dobbel said. “The Safe Rides partnership with Via shows potential to improve the user side of the experience, remove a difficult barrier for low-income students and increase access to safe and free transportation on campus.”
Northwestern’s partnership with Via means Safe Ride will continue to provide unlimited free rides for all undergraduate and graduate students, increasing campus safety by making it easier than ever to request a ride on-demand. As in years past, the Safe Ride program will operate seven days a week from 7 p.m. to 3 a.m. during the fall, winter and spring quarters. Under the partnership, more vehicles and driver times will be available to students, a move designed to decrease wait times.
Safe Ride drivers will be paid an hourly rate instead of per ride. Drivers will be carefully selected with preference given to those with the highest ratings, positive customer feedback and the best driving records.
“We are delighted to partner with Northwestern University to bring a new level of convenience and efficiency to the school’s Safe Ride program,” said Daniel Ramot, co-founder and CEO of Via. “Students shouldn’t have to think twice about getting around campus safely. We’re looking forward to providing students with a smart, efficient and sustainable campus transportation solution.”
Riders can download the Via app (iOS and Android) to hail vehicle directly from their smartphone. Via’s advanced algorithms will enable multiple riders to seamlessly share the vehicle. The powerful technology will direct passengers to the nearby pickup point, allowing for quick and efficient shared trips without lengthy detours, or inconvenient fixed routes and schedules.
Via has been tapped by cities, universities and transportation players around the world to help re-engineer public transit from a regulated system of rigid routes and schedules to a fully dynamic, on-demand network. Via now has more than 80 launched and pending deployments in more than 20 countries, providing more than 60 million rides to date. To learn more about Via, visit www.platform.ridewithvia.com.
About Via
Via is re-engineering public transit, from a regulated system of rigid routes and schedules to a fully dynamic, on-demand network. Via’s mobile app connects multiple passengers who are headed the same way, allowing riders to seamlessly share a premium vehicle. First launched in New York City in September 2013, the Via platform operates in the United States and in Europe through its joint venture with Mercedes-Benz Vans, ViaVan. Via’s technology is also deployed worldwide through dozens of partner projects with public transportation agencies, private transit operators, taxi fleets, private companies, and universities, seamlessly integrating with public transit infrastructure to power cutting-edge on-demand mobility. For more information, visit www.platform.ridewithvia.com.
The on-demand service draws hundreds of customers every week, letting riders leave their cars at home during daily commutes.
September 17, 2019 (LONE TREE, COLORADO) — Via, the world’s leading provider and developer of on-demand public mobility solutions, today released milestone metrics for the City of Lone Tree’s Link On Demand transportation system, which launched in partnership with Via in February 2019. In the last six months, residents and area commuters have taken tens of thousands of rides, with vehicle utilization well beyond projected goals.
“Expanded transportation options and congestion relief are top priorities for Lone Tree residents and businesses. Link On Demand allowed the City to optimize its transportation infrastructure investments and improve access and mobility throughout Lone Tree,” said Lone Tree Mayor Jackie Millet. “Demand for the service continues to grow and our partnership with Via has resulted in improved customer service, ridership and data collection.”
The City of Lone Tree originally piloted Link On Demand in 2018 and transitioned to its current partnership with Via earlier this year. The on-demand transportation system serves as a free shuttle anywhere within the city limits, providing riders with a convenient and comfortable way to access anything in Lone Tree while reducing traffic congestion and carbon emissions caused by single-occupancy vehicles.
Since partnering with Via, however, residents have proved their eagerness to leave their private vehicles at home and take public transportation. Riders took more than 28,000 trips on Link On Demand in less than six months, with ridership demand actually increasing after the Regional Transportation District’s (RTD) southeast rail extension in Lone Tree in May 2019. It now averages more than 1,000 rides per week in a city with fewer than 15,000 residents.
And while Link On Demand serves as a connection to anywhere within the city limits, the service is most popular with daily commuters getting to and from the office. In fact, the Charles Schwab and Kaiser Permanente’s corporate campuses account for 25 percent of all pick-ups since launching in February, and 24.8 percent of all drop-offs.
What’s more is that ridership to and from those corporate campuses actually increased in the 12 weeks after the RTD extended its E, F and R light-rail service into Lone Tree. The volume of pick-ups increased by 18.2% and drop-offs by 15.2%, with Link On Demand likely acting as a first- and last-mile connection for the increasing volume of commuters taking the train.
This all accounts for the on-demand network’s significant utilization rate, as the number of people requesting rides more than triples during the morning and evening commuting hours. Because of its high utilization rate, Link On Demand has now saved nearly 35,000 vehicle miles by sharing a ride compared to driving a private vehicle, equivalent to eliminating more than 11 tons of CO2 vehicle emissions.
“Via’s technology is redefining mobility across the globe, and we’re thrilled to see such a positive reaction from Lone Tree Link riders since launching the new on-demand service,” Daniel Ramot, co-founder and CEO of Via, said. “This project proves that the easier it is to take public transport, the more people will reliably choose it over their private vehicle.”
To date, the Link On Demand app has been downloaded more than 3,400 times. This equates to nearly a quarter of Lone Tree’s population having the app.
Commuters can use the service by downloading the Link On Demand smartphone app powered by Via, available on iOS and Android. Link On Demand operates Monday to Thursday from 7 a.m. until 7 p.m.; Friday from 7 a.m. – 10 p.m.; and Saturday from 10 a.m. – 10 p.m.
About Via
Via is re-engineering public transit, from a regulated system of rigid routes and schedules to a fully dynamic, on-demand network. Via’s mobile app connects multiple passengers who are headed the same way, allowing riders to seamlessly share a premium vehicle. First launched in New York City in September 2013, the Via platform operates in the United States and in Europe through its joint venture with Mercedes-Benz Vans, ViaVan. Via’s technology is also deployed worldwide through dozens of partner projects with public transportation agencies, private transit operators, taxi fleets, private companies, and universities, seamlessly integrating with public transit infrastructure to power cutting-edge on-demand mobility. For more information, visit www.platform.ridewithvia.com.