Analyzing Ride-Hailing Services Utilization in Greater Melbourne: Influences of Service Area and Vehicle Capacity

Recent technological advancements have boosted ride-hailing services (RHS) to the forefront of urban transportation options, offering the potential to decrease private vehicle ownership by serving a larger population with fewer vehicles. However, their performance and service quality depend on the designated service areas and vehicle capacity limits. This study utilizes the agent-based model MATSim to analyze how service area and vehicle capacity variations affect RHS effectiveness in Greater Melbourne. Results from extensive simulations indicate that expanding service areas and increasing vehicle capacities significantly improve RHS accessibility and operational efficiency. This expansion leads to fewer vehicles on the road and reduced environmental impacts, with broader service areas serving more users and larger vehicle capacities decreasing per-trip travel distance. The study underscores the significance of integrating RHS within existing mobility systems and recommends zoning and fleet management policies for RHS as crucial tools for developing sustainable urban mobility.