Master Thesis - MSc in Spatial Development and Infrastructure Systems
ETH - Zurich
July 2011
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In the last decade, the world has seen a massive growth in the number of bus rapid transit systems (BRT). This growth was sparked off by the successful implementation of the first BRT system in Curitiba (Brazil) in the 1970s. BRT aims at providing cost-effective urban transport at a high quality of service, and it doubtlessly is a step ahead in the quest for affordable and improved urban public transport. However, rail-based systems are still a valid alternative for situations in which the limits of BRT systems are reached. Therefore, a main objective of this master thesis is to explore the limitations of BRT systems in urban areas. For this purpose, this work analyses the performance of different BRT systems regarding quality of service, capacity, and cost-efficiency. Threshold levels in passenger demand for choosing between modes are identified by means of a parametric cost model. Findings indicate that BRT has cost and quality advantages over conventional bus and light rail transit (LRT) operation at demand levels between ca. 250 and 2000 spaces per hour per direction. BRT proves to be especially favourable compared to LRT in situations where labour costs are low, where a high commercial speed can be achieved, where frequent services are desired, and where high vehicle load factors are tolerated. Empirical data show that in comparison to conventional bus systems, BRT offers particular quality advantages regarding capacity, accessibility, comfort, safety, and image.
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