Cristal to Gland pilot project, VD
Project tested in autumn 2024
The Cristal project in Gland aimed to test a service that is currently non-existent and complementary to the current regular line bus transport activities, by experimenting with a new type of flexible vehicle, the "Cristal" hinged shuttles, in different configurations: on a fixed line and on-demand transport in zone mode.
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Initial situation
On the one hand, a regular fixed route, scheduled on an authorized stretch, operated during peak hours from 6 to 9 a.m. and from 4 to 7 p.m during the week. On this route, the shuttles could travel as a single vehicle or coupled with 1, 2 or 3 other vehicles. This set-up allowed us to test the flexibility of these passenger vehicles.
In addition, during off-peak hours, a single-vehicle shuttle was operated with the digitized, on-demand model, as was the case on Saturdays. This made it possible to test cross-country demand in door-to-door area mode and to experiment with the dedicated digital application.
Objectives
- Experiments are being carried out with new technologies for digitized on-demand transport, from first to last mile
- To identify customer behaviour, customer acceptance and willingness to pay when using the shuttle.
- To assess technical and environmental feasibility.
- To consolidate the study on the development of urban transport in Gland, enabling decision-making by the authorities
Specific objectives for the trial phase:
- Geographical assessment of the places referenced, as well as potential obstacles or restrictions.
- The value of complementary target groups (B2B)
- The significance of what specific vehicles are chosen, i.e. 2 or 3-vehicle shuttles
Results
Cristal has attracted a great deal of interest from resident and visiting private customers. Customers have been actively speaking with the drivers and are interested in how booking, payment and timetables will work, as well as next steps for the pilot. Many selfies and photos have been doing the rounds on social media, showcasing this positive effect.
The combination of a fixed route with an on-demand service has demonstrated how perfectly these two models complement each other, during peak and off-peak hours alike.
This pilot project has grabbed the attention of the various surrounding municipalities, as well as potential sponsors.
Quantitative feedback, key stats over 6 weeks:
Fixed route:
1,730 passengers on the fixed route
On-demand:
- 1,621 passengers on a dynamic, on-demand mode of transport
- 974 journeys made
- 95.5% punctuality on arrival
- Pooling rate 2
- Customer ratings: 4.9 out of 5
- 90% bookings via app, 10% by phone
Sector and hours of operation
Fixed route and timetable: during rush hour from 6 to 9 a.m. and from 4 to 7 p.m., shuttle made up of 2 or 3 coupled vehicles.
On-demand service: during off-peak hours, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. to 10 p.m., plus on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m., just 1 vehicle.
Each vehicle can carry 12 people, including 4 seated + 1 space in the driver's cab, i.e. 12 passengers in a single vehicle, 24 in a 2-vehicle shuttle and 36 people in a 3-vehicle shuttle.
Reactions and articles
Development
Currently, assessments are underway and alternatives are being considered to determine the next steps for 2026
