Sustainable public transport through more flexibility and better coordination
Reference number | |
Coordinator | Linköpings universitet - Department of Management and Engineering |
Funding from Vinnova | SEK 5 609 708 |
Project duration | November 2017 - June 2024 |
Status | Ongoing |
Purpose and goal
The purpose of the research study, based on the strategies; more coordinated procurement documentation and increased flexibility, is to evaluate the cost and environmental impact of the cost drivers, which are largely considered to contribute to increasing costs in public transport. Based on the evaluation of the impact of different cost drivers, we intend to investigate appropriate measures to reduce or inhibit cost increases where it is most motivated. The overall long term goal is thus to create conditions for a sustainable public procurement of public transport.
Expected results and effects
Previous research has shown that peak-traffic and special requirements within the contracts are strong cost drivers in public transport and their effects will be studied deeper. The research at Linköping University and VTI will be done in cooperation with Karlstad University (SAMOT), Nobina AB (Bus Operator), Östgötatrafiken (PTA) and Sveriges Bussföretag (trade organisation). The results will provide a base for decision makers to work for an innovative and efficient procurement process for public transport focusing on both cost-effectiveness and the environment.
Planned approach and implementation
The project is based on previous research in which a number of bus operators and public transport authorities (PTAs) were interviewed about the reasons for cost increases in the industry. Based on their response, nine different categories were identified which were considered to be dominant cost factors. Several of these are related to environmental aspects. With qualitative and quantitative methods, the importance of the cost drivers will be analyzed through interviews and calculations of their impacts both in monetary terms and in terms of negative environmental impact.