Case of study of a mixed carsharing system desing

Abstract

One of the most significant issues when designing a carsharing system is the decision of implementing a free-floating or stations-based system. The advantages and drawbacks of each system are well known. Free-floating systems provide more accessibility to users. But they are more sensible to demand imbalance and can be limited if public space availability is restricted by municipalities. Station-based don’t need public space occupation, but the station infrastructure requires more investment. The authors have developed a macroscopic design model that considers the case of a mixed carsharing system, which includes both freefloating and station-based options working together. This model not only allows to compare which option will perform better on any given scenario, but also to provide solutions that combine the accessibility and cheapness of free-floating with the lack of public space limitations of station-based systems. This document describes that model and shows its application to a case of study.