Spare entered into a new contract with Boston’s Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA). 

The collaboration provides cutting-edge paratransit technology and services to customers of one of the largest transit systems in the U.S., enhancing accessibility in customer-facing software and communications, efficiency, and the experience for individuals with disabilities who rely on paratransit services. 

Spare’s Tech to Drive MBTA

By leveraging Spare's AI-driven platform, the MBTA will optimize its paratransit operations, improving scheduling accuracy based on vehicle location, vehicle requirements, customer wait times, and service performance metrics all while enhancing overall service reliability. 

Spare's technology will enable the MBTA to improve service, allocate resources more efficiently, and provide real-time updates to riders, empowering them to make informed decisions about their travel plans. 

Through its Open Fleets technology, Spare brings extensive experience in optimizing between dedicated and non-dedicated providers to significantly enhance and modernize the rider experience in the greater Boston area, similar to what they have done for many years working with the leading transit agencies around the world.

"We are thrilled to partner with the MBTA to bring our cutting-edge paratransit solutions to millions of trips yearly," said Kristoffer Vik Hansen, CEO of Spare. "This partnership underscores Spare's commitment to transforming urban mobility by providing reliable and accessible transportation options for all. We look forward to working closely with the MBTA to set new standards for paratransit service, especially in high-density cities like Boston."

The MBTA’s RIDE Service

The MBTA’s paratransit service provides door-to-door, shared-ride public transportation to people who can’t use the subway, bus, or trolley due to disability. 

The RIDE is available year-round in 58 cities and towns in the greater Boston area and includes a fleet of 700 vehicles in addition to ride-share providers including Uber and Lyft, providing more than 1.5 million trips per year. 

The RIDE service area encompasses ADA-compliant zones aligned with fixed routes, as well as extended Premium zones, providing comprehensive coverage for riders across the greater Boston area. 

The MBTA’s paratransit services extend well beyond fixed routes, featuring seamless integration with a multitude of Non-Dedicated Service Providers (NDSPs), including Uber, Lyft, and UZURV , and expands the range of transportation options into a single platform for management and optimization. 

Spare's advanced technology platform provides riders with real-time alerts, convenient booking capabilities, and improved visibility over their trip statuses, enhancing their overall experience while leveraging data, route planning, and vehicle utilization.