Shared Transportation

Shared Transportation is a system where multiple individuals use a shared vehicle simultaneously or at different times. The primary goals of this system are to optimize resources, and reduce costs, traffic congestion, and environmental pollution. This concept has expanded significantly in recent years, particularly with advancements in technology and the development of smart applications.

Types of Shared Transportation

1- Ride-Sharing (Ride-Sharing):

• Passengers with similar destinations share a vehicle (e.g., Uber Pool, Lyft Shared, Snapp Club, or Tapsi Plus).
• Travel costs are split among passengers.

2- Car-Sharing (Car-Sharing):

• Users share their vehicles for short-term or long-term periods (e.g., Zipcar or car-sharing services in Iran like “Car Rental”).

3- Vanpool (Vanpool):

• Groups of individuals (e.g., coworkers) commute daily to work using a shared minibus or van.

4- Bike and Scooter Sharing:

• Public bicycles or scooters for short-distance trips (e.g., electric scooters in some cities).

5- Planned Shared Services:

• Mobile apps that coordinate travel routes and schedules to connect people with similar itineraries.

Advantages

1. Reduced Traffic: Occupying less space on roads.
2. Cost Savings: Splitting fuel and fare expenses.
3. Lower Pollution: Optimizing vehicle use and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
4. Flexibility: Access to transportation without owning a personal vehicle.

Disadvantages and Challenges

1. Timing: Routes may become longer.
2. Privacy Limitations: Traveling with strangers.
3. Coordination Difficulties: Requires precise planning to align routes.
4. Security Concerns: Ensuring the safety of passengers and drivers.

Examples in Iran

1. Fixed-Route Taxis: Services with predetermined routes that split costs among passengers.
2. Snapp and Tapsi Apps: Shared options like “Snapp Club” or “Tapsi Plus.”
3. Car Rental Platforms: Websites or apps enabling users to share personal vehicles.

Difference from Traditional Transportation

In traditional systems (e.g., individual taxis), a vehicle serves only one passenger or group. In shared transportation, vehicles are coordinated for multiple passengers or routes.

Future of Shared Transportation

With advancements in self-driving technologies and artificial intelligence, shared services are expected to become smarter and more efficient. Additionally, the growth of smart cities and pollution-reduction policies will further highlight the importance of these systems.