NEWSROOM

Wayne, Pa (May 31, 2019) — Ecolane and Malta Public Transport have partnered to deliver the island nation of Malta on-demand transportation services that expand beyond their current fixed route system.

Using Ecolane’s application programming interface (API), Malta Public Transport added their existing client database and executed multifunctional transport to work seamlessly with their popular Tallinja app.

The TD Plus pilot project enables riders to choose when and where they would like to be picked up and dropped off.  The system checks the best ride available and provides the rider with their trip confirmation.

There will be designated pick-up and drop-off points within conceptual corridors throughout Malta for their on-demand riders.  The mobile app is designed to map out the route closest the rider’s pick-up point and then once the rider and driver reach the pick-up point, the driver will take the rider to the drop-off point nearest the rider’s destination.  Because stops are only three miles apart, rides are expected to last less than 10 minutes.

“Ecolane is enthusiastic to have a partnership with Malta Public Transport for the TD Plus service,” said Steve Ross, CEO of Ecolane. “As microtransit services continue to evolve, Ecolane strives to provide innovative technology solutions that enhance mobility options and community engagement for people who otherwise would not have access, especially when it is offered inclusively as part of public transportation.”

Malta Public Transport will commission Mercedes Benz Sprinters for the launch.  Provided by Autobus DeLeon, each vehicle accommodates up to 16 passengers and is wheelchair-accessible.  Rides cost roughly three euros, or approximately $2.

“This is a completely new approach to urban transportation and the feedback we received after an intensive testing period in the past weeks has been immensely encouraging,” said Konrad Pulé, General Manager at Malta Public Transport. “Public transport is evolving around the world, and we want to be at the forefront of this by offering our passengers innovative and convenient ways of getting around in Malta. We are very excited about this new project and we look forward to receiving more feedback to continue improving our service.”

There is an estimated 475 thousand people spread over 122 square miles in Malta with a population density of 4,077 per square mile, which ranks seventh in the world.

About Ecolane

With U.S. headquarters in Wayne, PA, Ecolane is a technology leader in the U.S., Canada and other international markets serving both public and private transit sectors. Ecolane delivers solutions for paratransit, NEMT, campus, government and other forward-thinking transit agencies of all sizes. With the ultimate goal of providing management teams with superior technological solutions that work to increase productivity, maximize efficiency, and improve the rider experience, Ecolane develops superior transit software to enable agencies to meet rising rider demands. Our continued innovation in the industry is a result of our supportive and dynamic relationships with our customers, as we work and learn together to improve mobility services.

About Malta Public Transport

Malta Public Transport is the national bus operator responsible to operate all public transport services by bus on the Maltese islands. We form part of an international network of transport companies present in four continents with over 40,000 employees. With over 120 years of experience in efficient management of urban transport as well as regional, national and international bus, coach and rail transport, our philosophy is to maximize on this international experience and adapt it to the local context wherever we operate, including Malta.

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