Implementing intelligent transport systems on third-world public transport vehicles

Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS) are synonymous with first-world countries such as the USA, some European countries and Japan. In developing third-world countries such as African countries, the main mode of public transport is supplied by paratransit systems operated by individuals and small businesses. Minibus taxis in South Africa are known for their bad driver behaviour which is due to their informal operating model. This paper describes a Demand Responsive Transport (DRT) ITS application that was introduced to 19 minibus taxis operating in Cape Town The Italian-developed DRT application was adapted to suit the South African environment and to satisfy the requirements of the drivers, who could not afford to lose income because of the new application. As a result of technology the services offered by minibus taxis could be supplemented, and revenue improved. A lesson learned is that the implementation process must be such as to first build trust and prove the value of the newly introduced technology.