Local transfers and package delivery in cooperation with taxi drivers

In Viladecavalls, everybody knows Norberto; he’s been the local taxi driver for over 20 years. People call him directly whenever they need to go to the nearby Terrassa Hospital or Barcelona Airport. The health crisis that started in 2020 seriously affected taxi demand in the village and Norberto hardly received any reservation to drive a local neighbour out of town. In this context, this meant an opportunity to provide affordable local shared rides, as the lack of trips out of town allowed taxi drivers to focus on the city’s inner mobility that was not covered by the local bus.?

When Shotl’s team reached out to Norberto and his two colleagues, we were first interested in understanding whether there was potential demand for local rides in such environments. The drivers personally knew hundreds of neighbours with no access to a private vehicle who would choose such a solution if it existed.

Finally, a new mobility concept was introduced to the town of Viladecavalls, that combined the convenience and affordability of an on-hand private chauffeur for people and package delivery. The concept was branded as “Carles”.

Solution

Carles’ value proposition is not so much based on its technology, but more on the personal touch that the local drivers can bring to their communities, whether it’s providing affordable rides anywhere in town or delivering goods from stores and restaurants to people’s houses.?

Alternative transport modes are generally not available in the majority of these areas, creating huge challenges. This is the case in Viladecavalls and over 65% of Europe’s suburban built environments, where public transportation is often limited and bus routes end up serving a small minority.

Outcome

All the team at Shotl was excited to test a new mobility concept that could help thousands of local taxi drivers across Europe deliver quick, affordable rides to their neighbours.

We want to help improve people’s lives by providing better access to everyone and activate small local economies by connecting businesses and people.

Norberto, Carles’ taxi driver, said: “People still need to go to the local stores or access public services. If we have the digital means to help them, I believe we should try it.”

Key results

? Shotl’s Carles aims to provide an alternative mode for all short trips connecting two different points within a municipal boundary, especially those that often require a licensed driver to transport the passenger.

? Acceptance among local users was high and they described the service as an alternative solution to the car for short trips.

? The trial proved users preferred Carles to driving whenever they needed a quick ride to the mall, the doctor or access the local train station.

Beneficiaries

? Viladecavalls residents can get around more quickly and conveniently without having to rely on private vehicles. They can also entrust their deliveries to local taxi drivers.

? Local taxi drivers grow their business volume during off-peak hours and reinforce their position as a trusted driver in the local community.

? Viladecavalls Town Council improves transit service and quality of life for its citizens, and made Viladecavalls a cleaner, greener, more attractive place to live, at no extra cost.

? Local environment benefits from a reduction in vehicles and a decrease in CO2 levels, enabling a quiet and more pleasant environment for residents.