How (Should) we evaluate DRT’s impact on social equity?

Demand responsive transport (DRT) has been touted as a panacea for suburban public transport woes, providing efficient service in low-density environments. A review of the DRT literature published in English language journals identified 29 papers that examined the effect of these services on social equity. All studies examined the impact of age on DRT usage, while disability (25 papers) and gender (15 papers) were major interests. This research was predominantly completed in the Anglosphere, with the UK (34%), the US (31%), and Australia (14%) dominant. While DRT can take many forms, there is limited research into the best ways to provide these services in various environments to best promote social equity. That said, DRT services generally increase the quality of life for the disadvantaged served in suburban and rural areas, where it has been implemented. A research agenda based on the results of this study suggests ways forward to improve understanding of equity outcomes from DRT service provision.