Via Transportation is one of New York City’s leading systems for ridesharing, alongside Uber and Lyft. It’s not a ridesharing app as it is, like Uber, but a technology company that provides SaaS and operations for public transport. However, Google considers Via a ridesharing platform as well.
Via Transportation reaches the UK
“Reimagining public transit. Software and operations that elevate transit in every community. Global scale, local impact,” Via stated on its official website.
Via also stated that those they serve are cities, universities, transit authorities, corporations, transit operators, healthcare providers, paratransit operators, riders, schools, and drivers.
Now, Via is the newest official transportation technology and operations provider for Wiltshire Connect. This flexible and demand-responsive yet young transport service was launched in 2023 for Wiltshire Council, located in southwest England.
Via, though headquartered in New York City, will expand to the United Kingdom to cover the areas of Royal Wootton Bassett and Malmesbury and introduce an upgraded passenger experience.
Thus, those passengers can gain more intuitive and convenient systems for app booking experiences, reduced wait times, and more efficient service operations.
Wiltshire Connect’s decision to work with a brand-new provider supports the United Kingdom government’s national bus strategy. This strategy lays out a vision to deliver better transportation coverage for passengers throughout England, including in the more remote and outlying areas.
Wiltshire Council also has its Bus Service Improvement Plan, which seeks to enhance rural mobility and increase overall transport patronage throughout the county.
As the Via-powered Wiltshire Connect service operates, it will match passengers going in the same direction in just one shared Mercedes minibus. Yes, that lux.
Now, these passengers may be directed toward a virtual bus stop, which is just a short walking distance from their area. Wheelchair-accessible vehicles are also available upon request.
Once it is rolling in full, service is available from Monday to Friday from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. You can pre-reserve your journeys a week in advance and up to 30 minutes before your intended travel time.
Silent treatment
What is it for the public aside from what’s discussed above? Well, it seems the general public isn’t quite welcoming.
On social media platforms, there have been few to no public sentiments about this. Perhaps it isn’t that huge? Well, considering the Via is one of the star ridesharing platforms in New York City, that must be public opinion. But where?
You can share yours by signing up for your account here on Ridesharing Forum. Happy weekend, guys!