A novel model and algorithm for designing an eco-oriented demand responsive transit (DRT) system

Since the flexibility and adaptability of demand responsive transit (DRT) give more potentials and spaces of embracing eco-routing strategy, this study develops a novel framework of embedding eco-routing technology into DRT service, in which module of vehicle dynamics and module of fuel consumption/emission are specifically integrated in response to varied traffic conditions and road types when designing of DRT system. To this end, a mix-integer model and the customized DP-based heuristic are proposed to determine eco-oriented DRT routes and schedules. A series of numerical cases based on realistic road networks are designed to unfold the comparison of the performance of eco-oriented DRT against the traditional one. The results demonstrate that introduction of eco-routing is able to significantly reduce the energy consumption and emissions by up to 37% in companying with a slight increase of total travel time and routing distance. The well-developed models and algorithm make the study is ready for real-world applications.