Work

Insights into Ridepooling efficiency: A case study analysis using a novel operational performance measure framework

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: The efficiency of demand responsive transport (DRT) services, such as ridepooling, has garnered significant attention across various (simulation) studies. However, a deeper look into the metrics employed to assess system performance exposes notable discrepancies in their utilization. Notably, certain indicators, such as the pooling rate, demonstrate a susceptibility to manipulation based on input parameters, potentially skewing results to give a more favorable impression of service performance. In this paper, we show that, under such circumstances, achieving a fair comparison between study outcomes and with traditional (public) transport modes becomes challenging. In light of these challenges, this study introduces a novel operational performance indicator: Operational System Efficiency ( OSE ). OSE is tailored to evaluate the operational efficiency of ridepooling systems in a holistic way. In particular, it combines important operational indicators such as detour factor and empty kilometers share, which are considered in numerous analyses. Hereby, OSE is fostering a more equitable assessment of service performance. We applied this methodology and calculated the indicators provided in other studies to two real-world trip datasets from ridepooling services in Berlin and Münster, Germany, and compared the results. Distinct disparities emerge in comparison with conventional efficiency indicators. Consequently, the proposed OSE holds promise for stakeholders, including service providers, public transport companies, and regulatory authorities, as a valuable tool for determining the suitability of a ridepooling service for a given locale relative to other transport modalities, while also providing a transparent assessment of its efficiency.

Source: Journal of Urban Mobility

DOI: 10.1016/j.urbmob.2025.100173

Authors: Martin Lehnert, Christian Liebchen, Martin Schiefelbusch, Peter Bruder, Dennis Harmann

Institutions: Technical University of Applied Sciences Wildau, FH Münster University of Applied Sciences, Technische Universität Braunschweig

Language: English

Topic: Transportation and Mobility Innovations

Subfield: Automotive Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Sustainable cities and communities, Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,590