Feeder Transit Services in Different Development Stages of Automated Buses: Comparing Fixed Routes versus Door-to-Door Trips

Abstract

The arrival of automated vehicles could significantly reduce the operating cost of mobility services. This fact has encouraged researchers to propose door-to-door services instead of the current fixed routes. However, a comparison between these two alternatives is required in order to identify when (depending on the development degree of the automated vehicles) and where (depending on the characteristics of the area of service) the implementation of each service is the most competitive solution. This research compares the two types of transit services to supply first/last-mile solutions in suburban areas. By means of an analytical approach, the results show that fixed routes remain the most efficient alternative unless the new technology reaches a certain degree of development that allows a high reduction of operating costs. In this case, the applicability of door-to-door services will significantly increase under certain circumstances: small areas of service, short distance trips and high values of time.