Sydney to trial on-demand bus shuttle service later this year

“With Transdev Link customers can put their bus timetables away, and enjoy a personalised shuttle service when and where they need it in their local area,” said Transdev CEO René Lalande.

“The combination of on-demand transport, with traditional bus, rail and ferry services can deliver better customer service outcomes, reduce congestion and offer value for money for Government,” Mr Lalande said.

On-board the minibuses will be free WiFi, USB points for charging mobile devices, electric sliding doors and privacy glass.

“Driving change and innovating to improve the convenience and comfort of public transport has the potential to positively impact so many people’s lives. It’s a fantastic initiative by both Transdev and the New South Wales Government and we are very pleased to be a part of it,” said Managing Director of Mercedes-Benz Vans, Diane Tarr.

Fares

Fares for this trial will be as follows:

• Sutherland Shire: A service to pick customers up from home or a nearby location in Jannali West, Sylvania, Caringbah and Gymea and take them to transport hubs or local shops. Standard fare of $2.60, Concession Card holder $1.30.
• Manly and Eastern Suburbs: A service to pick customers up at home or nearby location and take them to Edgecliff and Bondi Junction stations, ferries at Manly or Rose Bay wharves. Standard fare of $3.10.

Update: 20 November 2017

These on-demand bus trials are now in operation. The Sutherland Shire commenced on 19 November, with Manly and the Eastern Suburbs doing so the following day.

Fares are as advised above, but the forms of payment, the mode of booking, and the hours of operation vary, as follows:

Sutherland Shire: Trips can be booked by calling 1800 835 465, or on the Transdev Link website, or via the Transdev Link app. Payment options include via credit card at the Transdev Link website, or cash to the driver. Hours of operation: Monday to Friday between 7am to 7pm, and “variable times on the weekend depending upon the service area”.

Manly and Eastern Suburbs: Trips can be booked via the Ride Plus website, or via the Ride Plus app. Payment is in advance through the Ride Plus website. Hours of operation: Monday to Friday between 6am and 10pm (excluding Public Holidays).

In all three areas, once a booking is confirmed a 10-minute pickup slot is provided, and you can book from one hour to one month ahead of your trip. Again there is some variation for the journey time guarantee. In the Sutherland Shire there is a maximum 30-minute journey time guarantee, while for Many and the Easter Suburbs it is a 15-minute guarantee.

Both the Transdev Link and Ride Plus apps are available for iOS and Android devices, on the iTunes and Google Play app stores. Those that download and book using the apps can use a promo code to claim three free trips. For a clearer idea of the zones in which the on-demand buses are working, visit the Transdev Link and Ride Plus sites.

For how long will these trials run?

These trials are pilot programs, for a term of 6 months, part of the NSW Government’s Future Transport program. All these trials have a possibility of extension for a period of up to two years.