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

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.