An intelligent software system has been developed that could make shared taxi travel as cost effective as bus travel in areas where public transportation is not available, according to researchers.

Central Queensland University computer scientist Dr Victor Korotkikh, in partnership with Mackay Taxi Holdings, has designed software that allows taxis to co-ordinate pick-ups for various passengers travelling to different destinations.

“Unlike the bus system, taxis don’t rely on a fixed route, so a taxi capable to carry up to 10 passengers can be given instructions to pick-up people from different locations within a half hour timeframe,” he said.

“Taxis go directly to the pick-up point as the software details a pick-up schedule once calls are received, so this saves time and money for both the passenger and taxi company.” The system won’t replace pubic transportation, but it could compliment bus routes and provide options for commuters living in areas where bus service is not an option.

The new multi-passenger service was designed to tackle increasing transport demands according to Max McBride, president of Taxi Council Queensland (based in Mackay). “In Australia air pollution from individual cars costs an estimated $19 billion dollars a year. In addition there is the cost of roadwork construction and maintenance, which is an enormous drain on the economy,” he said.

“Governments usually run bus services, but public transport does not support the needs of everyone, so alternative arrangements need to be considered.” Taxis would utilise their Global Positioning System and receive commands from on-line facilities, which access electronic street directories.

Mr McBride said the software could also be used for many other innovative technologies as it scheduled events according to information provided by the user.

The system should be available throughout Mackay next year.