On-demand transit is a flexible transit service delivery model that provides customers with transit options based on their trip needs. It is a shared ride service that allows customers book a ride using an online platform, app, or by calling in.
On-demand customers can schedule their rides ahead of time or request to be picked up as soon as possible. This type of system picks customers up at the closest bus stop and either drops them off at the closest stop to their final destination, or drops them off at a fixed-route connection to continue the rest of their journey. Vehicles can range from large SUVs to vans to shuttle buses.
On-demand transit can result in more direct, often shorter, travel time for the customer as well as operational efficiencies for the transit system which can then be used to enhance service in other ways.