Business Models for Automated Transit Applications

This chapter provides a systematic review of those diverse practices, which may be referenced by different entities when contemplating with automated transit applications. The perfect safety record, no casualty whatsoever, during the past half century of operations has also shielded automated guideway transit (AGT), particularly group rapid transit (GRT) from negative headlines. Automated transit, especially AGT and personal rapid transit (PRT), applications deserve the proper highlight in the array of modern technology development, public welfare, and successful business models. A business model establishes the core operational requirements essential to implement AGT applications safely and efficiently. It also addresses the spatial, temporal, and institutional structures associated with implementation of AGT technology. A business model highlights strategies to deal with incremental risks and liabilities associated with new or expanded operations of AGT systems. It also identifies potential funding sources, market‐analysis procedures, and ridership shares when compared with other modes based on domestic and international experience.