Fleet Sizing Models for Demand-Responsive Transport: A Simplified Approach for Practical Implementation

Alexandre Lefort ()
Additional contact information
Alexandre Lefort: E-Cole

Chapter 4 in Customizing Public Transport, 2026, pp 51-71 from Springer

Abstract: Abstract This chapter examines one of the main challenges in demand-responsive transport (DRT): determining the optimal fleet size that balances service quality with economic sustainability. Fleet sizing in on-demand systems is more complex than in fixed-route transit, as demand varies across time and space. The chapter introduces a simplified yet comprehensive model that supports decision-making without requiring advanced optimization tools. It is designed for transport operators, particularly in smaller cities or emerging markets, who need practical methods for planning. The model integrates key parameters such as trip length, vehicle speed, operating hours, demand fluctuations, and service quality indicators like waiting time and acceptable delay. It conceptualizes the service area as a circular zone to simplify the estimation of coverage and deviation times when vehicles pick up passengers outside their routes. This geometric framework offers sufficient accuracy for preliminary planning while remaining accessible to nonspecialists. By incorporating demand density and analyzing the trade-off between responsiveness and efficiency, the model estimates realistic service times and fleet requirements. Case studies from Mediterranean cities demonstrate its adaptability and highlight how area size, demand intensity, and quality standards shape fleet needs. The chapter concludes with guidelines for calibration and sensitivity analysis to tailor the model to diverse operational contexts.

Keywords: Demand-responsive transport; Fleet sizing; Transport simulation (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2026
References: Add references at CitEc
Citations:

There are no downloads for this item, see the EconPapers FAQ for hints about obtaining it.

Related works:
This item may be available elsewhere in EconPapers: Search for items with the same title.

Export reference: BibTeX RIS (EndNote, ProCite, RefMan) HTML/Text

Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:spr:trachp:978-3-032-22295-4_4

Ordering information: This item can be ordered from
http://www.springer.com/9783032222954

DOI: 10.1007/978-3-032-22295-4_4

Access Statistics for this chapter

More chapters in Transportation Research, Economics and Policy from Springer
Bibliographic data for series maintained by Sonal Shukla () and Springer Nature Abstracting and Indexing ().