To wait or to cruise: The trade-off between waiting time and detours for service efficiency in ride-pooling systems

Demand-responsive transport (DRT) in the form of ride-pooling has gained momentum thanks to its flexibility and convenience. To pool rides, detours may occur, and this usually leads to extra waiting times and ride durations for passengers. While many studies in the literature focus on improving vehicle scheduling, it remains interesting to see how the extra time passengers spend in traveling impacts the efficiency of a DRT system. In this study, we address this question by conducting experiments within an agent-based transport simulation framework using various real-world scenarios. Results suggest that increasing permissible waiting time is more effective in reducing the required fleet size and, consequently, the costs, compared to allowing a longer permissible ride duration. On the other hand, while increasing permissible ride duration at the expense of permissible waiting time increases the vehicle occupancy during peak hours, this does not necessarily correspond to a more efficient service. • We investigate how permissible waiting time and ride duration in demand- responsive transport (DRT) systems impact service efficiency and customer experience. • Case studies for multiple scenarios with various geographical characteristics and population distribution patterns are conducted, using an agent-based simulation framework. • Results suggest that increasing permissible waiting time is more effective in improving the efficiency of the DRT system compared to increasing permissible ride duration. • Increasing permissible ride duration at the expense of permissible waiting time increases the vehicle occupancy during peak hours, but this does not necessarily correspond to a more efficient service. • Based on the outcomes of this study, DRT operators should prioritize enhancing the waiting experience so that passengers are more willing to accept longer waiting times.