Investigating the mode choice behaviour of ride-sourcing users

Abstract

In the bustling and ever-expanding metropolises of our world, the act of commuting has become a complex and integral part of daily life. The need to travel from one location to another, is a fundamental aspect of modern urban existence. However, what was once a straightforward journey from point A to point B has evolved into a multifaceted challenge, demanding meticulous planning and execution. The advent of new mobility services, characterised by mobile applications offering real-time information and on-demand shared mobility, has opened doors to bridging the lastmile gap. Ride-sharing and hailing services have introduced a new era of urban mobility and has revolutionized urban mobility, offering diverse transportation options to users. However, amidst growing concerns regarding environmental sustainability and regulatory challenges, understanding the mode choice behavior of ride sourcing users has become imperative. This study aims to address this gap by investigating the factors influencing the mode choice behavior of ride sourcing users, focusing on bike taxis, auto-rickshaws, and conventional cabs. The primary objectives of this research are threefold. Firstly, it seeks to assess the environmental implications of ride sourcing services and their impact on the urban ecosystem. Secondly, it aims to delve into the usage patterns and perceptions of different user groups regarding ride sourcing modes. Thirdly, it endeavors to explore the determinants shaping the mode choice preferences of ride sourcing users, particularly between bike taxis, auto-rickshaws, and cabs. With the proliferation of ride sourcing platforms, concerns regarding environmental sustainability have gained prominence. Despite bike taxis being recognized as the most environmentally friendly mode due to their minimal emissions, their operation has faced regulatory hurdles leading to bans in several states. This study seeks to unravel the underlying factors influencing individuals' decisions to opt for specific ride sourcing modes, thereby shedding light on whether the banning of bike taxis is justified. Data for the study were collected through surveys, focusing on travel behavior, perceptions, and preferences related to ride sourcing. The Kruskal-Wallis test was employed to discern variations in perception among different user groups, shedding light on diverse perspectives within the user base. Finally, multinomial logit regression analysis was performed to quantify the influence of these variables on mode choice. By employing rigorous statistical methods, this research aims to provide empirical insights into the complex decision-making processes underlying mode selection in the context of ride sourcing. Insights derived from this research could aid in devising effective policy interventions aimed at promoting sustainable mobility practices while addressing the concerns of diverse user groups. Moreover, understanding the factors driving mode choice could facilitate the development of tailored strategies to incentivize the adoption of environmentally friendly modes such as bike taxis. In conclusion, this research endeavors to contribute to the evolving discourse on urban mobility. By bridging the gap between academic research and real-world policy challenges, this study seeks to foster sustainable and inclusive transportation systems that cater to the needs of both users and the environment.