METRO Magazine Logo
MenuMENU
SearchSEARCH

Anaheim, California launches app-based microtransit service

Visits several fixed stops based on riders' pick-up and destination requests within the Center City area.

January 29, 2019
Anaheim, California launches app-based microtransit service

The City of Anaheim, California and Anaheim Resort Transportation have launched  a unique app-based, microtransit system using electric vehicles.  Photo: City of Anaheim

2 min to read


The City of Anaheim, California and Anaheim Resort Transportation have launched a unique app-based, microtransit system using electric vehicles. Photo: City of Anaheim

The City of Anaheim, California and Anaheim Resort Transportation have launched  a unique app-based, microtransit system using electric vehicles. The Free Ride Around (the) Neighborhood (FRAN) fleet of 10 all-electric Polaris GEM cars connects popular destinations in Anaheim's Center City area.

The shared vehicles arrive on demand via FRAN's smartphone application. The app contains points-of-interest information, and future editions will update driving visitors in real time on where to park near FRAN pick-up spots.

Ad Loading...

FRAN is distinct from other microtransit systems: It is a free, electric-vehicle service accessed through app technology and operated by a public transportation agency, not by a private company.

While FRAN is an acronym for Free Ride Around (the) Neighborhood, its identity is inspired by Francisca Avila Rimpau, a founding mother of the historic Anaheim Colony, and of the entire Southern California region.

FRAN does not follow fixed routes but rather visits several fixed stops based on riders' pick-up and destination requests within the Center City area. The service is wheelchair accessible, and two vehicles will be retrofitted with a wheelchair-accessible ramp. The 10 Polaris GEM e6 vehicles accommodate a driver and five passengers, and its drivers are knowledgeable docents of the Center City area, much like travel guides (see more on the Polaris GEM vehicles below).

Photo: City of Anaheim

The FRAN fleet consists of 10 new Polaris GEM e6 vehicles. Polaris GEM is the first commercially produced street-legal, low-speed vehicle in the U.S. Its passenger and utility electric vehicles are sustainable and economical, with zero emissions and low operating costs. GEM vehicles save significant amounts of carbon dioxide, and save costs to the City over the vehicles' lifespans compared to other vehicles, according to the company.


More New Mobility

An OCTA ZEB.
Technologyby Alex RomanJuly 31, 2026

Biz Briefs: OCTA Taps Clean Energy for Hydrogen Station, Stadler to Supply Via Rail Vehicles, and More

From manufacturers and suppliers to transit agencies and motorcoach operators, these updates offer a snapshot of the projects, partnerships and business moves driving the industry forward.

Read More →
A CharterUP branded Holon AV.
New Mobilityby Alex RomanJuly 31, 2026

CharterUP Expands Into New Mobility and Autonomous Transportation

Vice President of New Mobility Stephen Joos discusses how CharterUP is leveraging its nationwide transportation network, technology platform, and autonomous vehicle partnerships to expand into workforce mobility, campus shuttles, and transit solutions.

Read More →
Driving Change: Award Winners Redefine Industry Standards
Technologyby Staff and News ReportsJuly 29, 2026

METRO Magazine Announces 2026 Innovative Solutions Awards Winners

Projects Recognized for Advancing Mobility Through Technology, Accessibility, Workforce Innovation, and Operational Excellence

Read More →
Ad Loading...
A photo of an Amtrak train with a logo
Managementby Alex RomanJuly 24, 2026

Biz Briefs: STV teams with Amtrak, Motorcoach Operators Boost Fleet and Land Contracts, and More

From manufacturers and suppliers to transit agencies and motorcoach operators, these updates offer a snapshot of the projects, partnerships and business moves driving the industry forward.

Read More →
A rider validating a tap payment on a Masabi validator.
Technologyby Staff and News ReportsJuly 17, 2026

Biz Briefs: Masabi Teams with St. Louis Metro and More

In METRO's latest installment, we take a look at recent news from Transdev, Hitachi, and more partnerships making headlines across the transportation sector.

Read More →
A Freebee microtransit van in Miami with text reading "Microtransit as Part of the Network."
New Mobilityby Elora HaynesJuly 10, 2026

Microtransit's Next Test: Becoming Part of the Network

Freebee shows how electric microtransit is moving beyond pilots to fill network gaps, connect riders to transit, and prove lasting value.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
Blue and white graphic with a professional portrait of Nathaniel P. Ford Sr.

Ford to Leave JTA After More Than 10 Years as CEO

He plans to continue his work advancing innovative mobility solutions to improve the quality of life in communities across the nation. He did not announce specific plans.

Read More →
JTA Celebrates One Year of NAVI Service, Demonstrating the Future of Autonomous Public Transportation
New Mobilityby StaffJune 30, 2026

Florida's JTA Marks One Year NAVI Anniversary

During its first year of operation, NAVI has transported over 15,200 passengers and traveled more than 61,000 miles in autonomous mode without a safety incident caused by the autonomous driving system.

Read More →
Passengers in crowded SEPTA station
Managementby StaffJune 29, 2026

SEPTA Board Approves FY2027 Budget Amid Funding Challenges

The spending plan represents an increase of just 1.9% over the current year and includes investments in new buses, additional full-length fare gates, and other customer enhancements.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
Endera electric buses for California’s Mendocino Transit Authority
Technologyby StaffJune 25, 2026

Biz Briefs: Endera Delivers to California, Safety Vision Teams with San Antonio's VIA, and More

From manufacturers and suppliers to transit agencies and motorcoach operators, these updates offer a snapshot of the projects, partnerships and business moves driving the industry forward.

Read More →