A flow-based integer programming approach to design an interurban shared automated vehicle system and assess its financial viability

Shared automated vehicles (SAV) are expected to become part of on-demand transport systems in the future. In an interurban context, SAV may potentially contribute significantly improve availability and quality public transport. this paper, we propose a flow-based integer programming approach design assess financial viability system. An model, based on profit maximization allowing vehicle pooling, was developed optimize fleet size movements typical working day. This model its optimal results were basis for assessing network central area Portugal. Different levels demand tested three different compositions considered: cars, minibuses, mixed both. The showed that is best option maximization. share each type, composition, asymptotically converges approximately 1/3 cars 2/3 as increases. introduction system such region trips can replace up 18 private per vehicle, should be done with sequential expansions guarantee at stages. break-even point, conditions case study, between 1.5 2 passengers 4 5 minibuses.