On-Demand Service: LOOPmünster successfully launched

Since September 1, 2020, hybrid London taxis (LEVC TX) have been complementing the public transport offerings of the university city of Münster, North Rhine-Westphalia. The operator is now drawing a positive initial interim conclusion. Without a fixed schedule and route, they are operating in the districts of Hiltrup, Amelsbüren, Berg Fidel, Düesberg, as well as adjacent residential and commercial areas. Over 55,000 people live in the approximately 40 km² area.

Funded Project

LOOPmünster is funded by the state of NRW with up to 5 million euros – the underlying concept was awarded in the state competition “Mobil.NRW – Model Project for Innovative Public Transport in Rural Areas.” The city is also contributing up to 3 million euros from its own funds.

Initial Conclusion

After four months, the city and municipal utilities have now taken an initial stock, and the result was very positive despite pandemic times – the on-demand service has already been used by 70,000 passengers to date. However, due to the second COVID-19 lockdown, the usage numbers of LOOP have decreased compared to the first months, from an average of 560 rides per day in October to about 400 in December and January.

The people of Münster are satisfied with LOOP – on average, passengers rated their ride 4.6 out of 5 stars. In the spring, there will be a passenger survey as part of the project's accompanying research by Münster University of Applied Sciences, from which the city and municipal utilities expect to gain further insights into how LOOP is influencing mobility behavior in southern Münster.

This is how it works

The London taxis, which currently offer seating for up to six passengers (currently four during COVID-19 restrictions) on comfortable leather seats or alternatively accommodate a wheelchair along with its user and a companion, serve around 700 designated pick-up and drop-off points. Ride requests from multiple passengers are combined by the system. A regular ticket, such as a subscription, a 90-minute ticket, or a semester ticket, is sufficient to use the vehicles. No additional costs are incurred.

The rides can be booked either via the LOOPmünster app or – after prior registration – by phone. The app's functions are constantly being adjusted and improved. For example, it will soon be possible to indicate during the booking process whether larger pieces of luggage need to be transported or a child seat is required.