Shotl introduces the new ”Smart Bus Line”

Shotl’s new "Smart Bus Line" is able to complement a fixed bus line with on-demand rides, when necessary. The key innovation lies in its ability to offer full or partial route flexibility, allowing new commuters to be added to pre-scheduled trips. Therefore, operators can maintain a fixed line scheme that activates on-demand service whenever new requests arise, ensuring efficient coverage and cost savings. This approach optimises vehicle utilisation, increasing the number of passengers transported per hour.

On-demand transport has become a popular and essential part of modern passenger transportation, benefiting both commuters and the public transportation industry. These services, which range from city-integrated systems to independent taxi or van-based operations, have grown rapidly due to the rise of mobile apps. These apps allow users to easily request rides, while operators can optimise routes and manage drivers in real-time. This flexible, user-driven model offers a convenient alternative to traditional public transport that responds directly to customer needs.

There are various models of on-demand transportation, each offering different levels of flexibility. These range from fixed routes with optional stops, where vehicles only make requested detours, to fully flexible “door-to-door” services that allow pickups and dropoffs anywhere within a service area. Shotl identifies five levels of on-demand transport, from fixed and flexible routes to feeder systems, corner-to-corner services, and door-to-door options. Each model best serves specific use cases, from busy urban areas to more remote or specialized environments like airports, suburban zones, and night services.

Beyond flexibility, other factors influence on-demand transport models, such as how far in advance routes are planned and the unpredictability of demand. Some services, like school buses or airport shuttles, may schedule trips in advance, while others rely on real-time optimisation to accommodate last-minute bookings. Additionally, the choice of vehicle type, integration with public transport systems, and the specific nature of the destinations all play crucial roles in determining the ideal on-demand transport solution for a given area or need.

Shotl has typically covered 3 of the 5 known on-demand models, focused on higher flexibility. However, we also acknowledge the advantages that less flexible models provide, whether for specific use cases or as an entry step toward on-demand public transport. Therefore, we’ve developed a new tool for schedule-based lines that need a certain level of flexibility, such as only doing some stops or trips if there is demand.

The new Shotl Smart Bus Line is compatible with the current Shotl platform and allows areas of both types to work under the same app and even overlap. We are sure this new product will help transit agencies and operators to further create efficient and convenient flexible transit services.

Want to learn more or see a demo in action? Contact us today for additional information or to schedule a personalised demo at hello@shotl.com