Optimal Pick-up and Drop-off Locations for Regional Ridesharing

Abstract

The increase of mobility needs will lead to an increase of the traffic volume generating an increase of traffic problems such as environmental pollution and congestion. This trend will continue over the coming years. Ridesharing offers an opportunity to counteract the effects. The performance of regional ridesharing concepts will be mainly a matter of an efficient handling of the pick-up and drop-off procedure. To determine the optimal pick-up and drop-off points a method is presented varying a series of pick-up and drop-off concepts for ridesharing trips. From the point of view of the operators, the readiness of the drivers to take detours, the readiness of possible passengers to access pick-up points and the effects of bundling are contradictory. In this area of conflict, a recommendation for action in the form of a compromise solution for all participants is derived from the results of this study.