Transport app developer Citymapper trialled an on-demand minibus service in London during early May.
With three Mercedes-Benz Sprinter conversions operated by Impact Coaches from its Perivale depot, route CMX1 runs between Blackfriars and Southwark via the South Bank.
Drivers use custom-made tablets with real-time traffic data, passenger numbers and headway information.
Data from Citymapper is used to plan the fastest routes and avoid congestion. Impact Coaches has been in talks with Citymapper for over a year and 10 drivers have received extensive training so far.
Impact Coaches MD Charlie Hamilton says that “a lot of time and effort” has been put into the scheme, and he expects the concept to grow over coming months.
The service aims to complement existing Transport for London ‘red bus’ services, and ultimately Citymapper plans to roll it out in other cities. It is the latest example of a revival of interest in minibuses, something that is expected to continue.
