In a latest development, ViaVan, a provider of on-demand shared transit services and STOAG Stadtwerke Oberhausen GmbH, the public transport authority in Oberhausen has announced the launch of a new fully electric, on-demand shared ride service – REVIERFLITZER in an attempt to fill the gaps during evening hours when public transit is less available.
Chris Snyder, ViaVan CEO, said: “Technology-enabled solutions like the REVIERFLITZER have the power to provide safe, efficient, and sustainable access to public transportation while complementing and extending existing transit infrastructure. We are proud to partner with STOAG to introduce a new form of flexible, on-demand mobility in Oberhausen that creates a compelling, environmentally conscious alternative to the private car, especially in evening hours when public transport is less available.”
While many cities across Europe seek ways to reduce private vehicle traffic in city centers, the on-demand service powered by EVs and ViaVan’s technology are proving to be environmentally sustainable and highly convenient alternatives to private car trips.
How to book a ride?
Step 1: Download REVIERFLITZER mobile app
Step 2: Select pickup and drop location within the service zone
Step 3: Confirm the ride
Wheelchair accessible!
Once the ride is booked, the ViaVan’s technology matches multiple passengers headed in the same direction into a single-vehicle. This minimises detours and offers a highly efficient rider experience. However, due to social distancing, only three out of six seats will be available to book, and drivers will be separated from passengers with a windowpane. It’s worth mentioning that all vehicles are wheelchair accessible.
Werner Overkamp, STOAG Managing Director, said: “With ViaVan, STOAG has opted for a software expert who has been tried and tested for years, and now coordinates shared trips in many cities around the world including Berlin. With the REVIERFLITZER, STOAG wants to offer a real alternative to owning a car. We aim to make public transport more attractive to passengers, while complementing our existing infrastructure, and remain committed to our core competence of transporting several passengers together from one destination to another.”
Timing!
The REVIERFLITZER will launch in the north of Oberhausen covering areas north of the A 42, including the Neue Mitte and Lipperfield. The service will operate in the evening hours from 9 AM to 2 PM Sunday-Thursday, 9 PM to 6 AM Friday, and 9 PM to 9 AM on Saturday.
Sabine Lauxen, Oberhausen Head of Environmental Affairs, said: “Thanks to the demand-oriented, bundled transport of several passengers coupled with user-friendly, digital application and intelligent technology, such offers can make the use of your car superfluous in the future. The REVIERFLITZER perfectly supports the goal of promoting environmentally-friendly, sustainable mobility in Oberhausen, and reducing nitrogen oxide pollution.
Tees Flex!
A couple of months back, ViaVan announced a new demand-responsive transport system i2n Tees Valley in partnership with Stagecoach Group, a leading public transport provider in the United Kingdom. Founded in 2017, ViaVan is a joint venture between Via, provider, and developer of on-demand public mobility and Mercedes-Benz Vans.
Main image credits: ViaVan
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