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Optimizing Taxi-Pooling Operations to Enhance Efficiency and Revenue: A Queuing Model Approach

Author

Listed:
  • Chaojun Wang

    (Smart Urban Mobility Institute, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai 200090, China)

  • Jingwei Wang

    (Department of Traffic Engineering, Huaiyin Institute of Technology, Huaian 223003, China)

  • Yi Zhang

    (Shanghai Municipal Institute of Urban and Rural Construction and Transportation Development, Shanghai 200032, China)

  • Jairus Odawa Malenje

    (School of Computing and Informatics, Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology, Kakamega 190-50100, Kenya)

  • Yin Han

    (Smart Urban Mobility Institute, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai 200090, China)

Abstract

This study investigates the optimization of taxi-pooling operations using the M / M /1/ m queuing model, aiming to enhance efficiency and revenue for taxi service platforms. Traditional taxi operations face challenges during peak periods, including inefficiency and increased operational costs. Taxi-pooling, by accommodating multiple passengers with similar travel demands, offers a solution that reduces travel costs, operational expenses, and urban congestion. The study develops an optimization model to balance operational costs and passenger waiting times, identifying the utilization rate of taxis as a critical factor in platform revenue. By modeling the taxi-pooling service as a queuing system, we derive mathematical expressions for passenger waiting times and platform revenue under varying conditions. Our findings highlight the importance of optimal vehicle investment strategies and pricing decisions to maximize revenue. The study provides theoretical support for improving taxi-pooling platforms’ efficiency and competitiveness, contributing to better urban transportation solutions.

Suggested Citation

  • Chaojun Wang & Jingwei Wang & Yi Zhang & Jairus Odawa Malenje & Yin Han, 2024. "Optimizing Taxi-Pooling Operations to Enhance Efficiency and Revenue: A Queuing Model Approach," Mathematics, MDPI, vol. 12(20), pages 1-22, October.
  • Handle: RePEc:gam:jmathe:v:12:y:2024:i:20:p:3210-:d:1497923
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    References listed on IDEAS

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