This paper presents some results of surveys in French urban areas that have implemented collective taxi services, with the aim of providing a complementary service, or sometimes a substitute service, for existing public transport networks. It first outlines the institutional organisation of urban public transport and the taxi profession in France. At the end of 1993, about 35 urban areas of very variable sizes were providing collective taxi services, although some of them were only temporary. The services can be classified into: (1) fixed regular services, analogous to bus services; and (2) on-demand services of varying degrees of flexibility. The stage services provided may complement conventional services by: (1) serving conventional services by: (1) serving zones with low demand; (2) operating during times of low demand; and (3) transporting professionals or people with reduced mobility. The paper also discusses (1) the types of vehicles used; (2) fare structures; (3) payments to the taxi drivers; (4) contracting parties; and (5) contract types. It finally indicates several advantages of collective taxis, including attractiveness to users, and notes some management problems. The services' overall contribution is very positive, although vigilance is required.
Abstract