Rationale for PRT: Passengers
1. Minimal Travel Costs
The operational costs of the system are minimized, ensuring the system is very affordable to use for passengers. In certain applications the service might be free of charge as the costs are included in local taxes, rent or parking fees (where possible).
2. High Accessibility, Short Walking Distances
A PRT-system allows for a high station density, minimizing the (walking) distance to or from each station. Comparable to the car a PRT system offer door-to-door transportation. All stations are accessible to disabled passengers, with level access to the vehicles.
3. Direct Connections (minimal travel time)
Passengers benefit from a direct connection from origin to destination, ensuring a minimal travel time. When a ride-sharing mode is implemented, this benefit will not apply (in peak hours).
4. Privacy of Travel
A PRT system enables private travel: alone or in desired company. The CyberCab vehicle accommodates a 6-person family (4 adults, 2 children) ensuring they do not require multiple vehicles. The average passenger load of the system will depend on the application and whether or not ride-sharing is introduced. Ride-sharing decreases the required fleet-size, but will affect the privacy of travel.
5. 24-Hour Availability
A PRT-system can be operational 24hrs. per day without heavily affecting the travel costs. The system will offer a higher service level in off-peak hours.
6. Minimal Waiting Times
A PRT-system has minimal waiting times, ensured by a high frequency of operation. In off-peak hours the service level of the system is optimal as there will generally be a waiting vehicle in the station.