tfl_scp_001783 Demand Responsive Bus Service Trial

The Mayor's Transport Strategy (MTS) confirms the critical role of the bus network in ensuring that, by 2041, 80 per cent of journeys are made by walking, cycling or on public transport. We want to understand the potential contribution of a demand responsive bus service to achieving this mode shift objective and to enhance Londoner's transport options more generally.

Demand Responsive Transport (DRT) services are those provided by a public service vehicle which follows a flexible route, a flexible timetable or both. These have existed in various forms for several decades. However, in recent years improvements in technology, and the introduction of vastly improved routing algorithms, have opened up a number of new transit possibilities.

TfL is exploring DRT to better understand its potential to enhance London's transport network. In particular, and as articulated in the MTS, TfL believes DRT may have the potential to contribute to sustainable travel by:

• helping to achieve modal shift to public transport in areas where car dependence is greatest;
• acting as a complement to the existing network and improving affordable access to essential services, employment, education and retail opportunities in areas with lower service coverage; and
• helping to promote a preference for travel by public transport and active modes amongst those moving into new residential areas.

As part of this, TfL is looking to work together with a supplier to run a co-funded Demand Responsive Bus Service Trial in outer London. The trial will help TfL to better understand this emerging transport model, and set standards on issues important to TfL and the Mayor such as accessibility, driver conditions, air quality, customer service, complementing not competing with the core network and supporting the wider goals of the MTS.

The first stage of the procurement process for this trial requires interested suppliers to complete an Expression of Interest Questionnaire (EoIQ) which can be accessed and submitted via the TfL e-tendering portal at: https://procontract.due-north.com. You will need to register on the portal (if you have not done so already), this is a simple process that will only take a few minutes - just follow the online instructions. Once registered please search for 'Demand Responsive Bus Service Trial'.

All EoIQ responses must be received via the portal by 12:00 (Noon) on 5th July 2018.