Oxford Minibus App

Oxford trials a new service that allows passengers to summon a minibus from any street corner using an app.

19:43 23 July 2018

This week, Oxford has launched its biggest on-demand experiment that turned its buses into Uber-style method of transport. The experiment, which is being rolled out in the eastern half of the city, allows passengers to use an app to summon a minibus to and from any street corner.

 

Called the PickMeUp service, its main goal is to minimise the number of cars on the road to cut congestion and pollution.

 

David Brown, the chief executive of the Go-Ahead transport group, which owns the PickMeUp operator, Oxford Bus Company, said: “This is classic territory where it’s tricky for a traditional bus service to deliver.

 

“If you don’t own a car, how do you get there? If it’s your fairst job you’re pretty stuffed. And if people can’t get to work and jobs that leads to another raft of social issues.”

 

“But with the new technology you can identify where people are and provide for them in a way you couldn’t before.”

 

The PickMeUp mini-buses charge only £2.50. They have free Wi-Fi, USB charging points and comfortable sitting for 17 as well as a wheelchair space.