Ride-share technology firm RideCo and Uber Technologies (NYSE: UBER) have forged a partnership to offer transit agencies overflow (TNC) options.
The company said on Tuesday that this initiative would help agencies scale to meet demand without causing significant organizational demands or disruption to their current network.
For almost ten years, RideCo has been working on and improving technology for on-demand transit. This technology helps public transit agencies update their paratransit services and save money by offering microtransit services. Agencies can give their customers a more customized way to get around using RideCo’s technology. They can book rides easily, get better coverage and wait less.
“Together, Uber and RideCo are helping agencies achieve greater operational efficiency and higher productivity, while enhancing rider equity,” said Jen Shepherd, general manager of Uber Transit.
“This partnership is a real win for transit agencies and the paratransit community, as we continue to extend the benefits of our technology to provide people of all abilities increased access to transportation.”
According to Uber, agencies typically use their own vehicles or hire another company to offer both scheduled and on-demand transportation. With the new RideCo-Uber integration, agencies have even more flexibility in how they provide transit services.
Read more: Ideanomics subsidiary secures big business contracts for electric tractors
Read more: The Mugglehead technology roundup: technological transformation edition
New partnership can handle extra demand during busy times
Agencies can use RideCo’s software to make their fleets more efficient and also work with Uber to handle extra ride requests during busy times, in less crowded areas, or based on what riders prefer. This allows them to offer a wider range of services and make public transit fairer for everyone.
The integration of the two platforms can be customized to follow the specific rules and regulations of each agency. This ensures that overflow services are used in the most suitable situations, while dedicated fleets are used where they are most effective.
By having Uber integrated into the RideCo platform, booking, payment and tracking rides become easier for both passengers and the transit agency. They no longer need to use multiple applications.
RideCo’s platform also includes a feature for managing eligibility, allowing agency staff to easily control who can access overflow options with specific conditions.
Shares of Uber Technologies rose 3.7 per cent to $44.35 on Tuesday on the New York Stock Exchange.
.
