Shuttle service: Hol-mich-App launches in Wuppertal with LEVC TX

The Wuppertaler Stadtwerke GmbH (WSW) has launched a new on-demand service with six LEVC TX shuttle vehicles in three districts of Wuppertal. The project, initially limited until the end of 2021, aims to gather experience with a flexible additional public transport offer in Uellendahl-Katernberg, Elberfeld, and Elberfeld West. In the test area, the so-called WSW Cabs can pick up and drop off passengers at 4000 fixed points. With the WSW Cabs and the "Hol mich!" app, WSW is participating in the "Bergisch Smart Mobility" research project involving the three cities of Wuppertal, Solingen, and Remscheid, the University of Wuppertal, the Bergische Structure and Economic Development Corporation, and APTIV Services.

All plug-in hybrid shuttles from the British-Chinese manufacturer feature a spacious passenger cabin that is wheelchair accessible and offers six seats. Additionally, a custom-made glass partition separates the driver and passenger compartments.

"I am pleased that our TX enriches Wuppertal's mobility offering and am confident that the TX will significantly contribute to the success of the 'Bergisch Smart Mobility' research project," stated CEO Jörg Hofmann.

Hofmann further promoted that the TX can be operated emission-free, is easy to maneuver through traffic, and offers a high-quality, safe passenger experience with its protected interior, especially during Corona times. WSW views on-demand transport as a supplement to public transport.

"On-demand can be a solution for neighborhoods that have previously been inadequately connected by buses," believes WSW boss Markus Hilkenbach.

Combining with digital technology allows offering customers a tailored and flexible mobility service to meet their needs, added WSW mobil Managing Director Ulrich Jaeger.

Supplement, not a replacement for public transport

The service is entirely digital, managed via the "Hol mich!" app, where customers can see the current locations of the WSW Cabs. Upon requesting a ride, passengers receive information about the vehicle's arrival time, and the app handles fare payments via PayPal or credit card. The light blue WSW Cabs operate Monday to Thursday from 6 AM to 10 PM, Friday and Saturday from 6 AM to 3 AM, and Sunday from 8 AM to 10 PM. The partners hope to gather detailed user behavior data during these times.

The project is part of the "Bergisch Smart Mobility" framework involving the three cities of Wuppertal, Solingen, and Remscheid, the University of Wuppertal, the Bergische Structure and Economic Development Corporation, and APTIV Services, and is limited until the end of 2021. Based on the experiences gained in Wuppertal, the project partners aim to develop digital mobility solutions transferable to other municipalities.

Up to 100 kilometers electrically

The TX Shuttle features an electric drive with a range extender in the form of a gasoline engine, with a pure electric range of up to 101 km and a flexible total range of 510 km, according to the manufacturer. Buyers can apply for the BAFA environmental bonus for the vehicle and receive €3,750, the manufacturer further advertises.