It is our duty as a public transport operator to propose solutions to our clients, local transport authorities, to help reduce their ever-increasing costs. But we must also generate new resources by attracting new customers, and we can do this by demonstrating Keolis' expertise in network design and operation.
Increase revenues
To make public transport increasingly attractive, proposing the best service offer is imperative. This generally includes getting the balance right between frequency and service routes. Keolis has developed a unique methodology called ‘Neolis’ which allows us to:
- Measure the attractiveness of a network offer in light of passengers’ mobility needs
- Re-design and adapt the service offer to the individual’s needs
- Allocate the right number of vehicles across the network to provide services when and where they’re needed
Beyond the attractiveness of the service offer itself, highlighting the advantages of public transport is crucial to retaining and attracting new customers. This may include offering competitive prices, reduced journey times, and enhancements to the passenger experience. Keolis has gained strong experience in implementing targeted marketing campaigns aiming at attracting specific customer segments with high potential.
Reducing fare evasion is another important way to increase passenger revenues, especially on bus, tram or rail networks where ticket checks are not systematic. Keolis is one of the front-runners in deploying innovative revenue protection initiatives to deter, detect and catch fare evaders. We use big data information to design patrol schemes and position our controllers at the right time and location to maximise the efficiency of ticket checks.
The aim of Neolis is to adapt mobility offerings by reducing local authority contributions, while preserving the essence of our "DNA": the satisfaction of all citizens.
Optimise operating costs
Beyond committing to maximising passenger revenues, Keolis commits to continuous growth in productivity and efficiency through the optimisation of human, asset and energy resources. We seek to have the right people in the right roles, doing the right work.
Keolis’ expertise means it can reduce a network’s operating costs with minimum impact on passenger services. This includes initiatives that:
- Optimise timetables to increase passenger numbers and increase line efficiency
- Reduce power consumption through initiatives such as eco-driving, or timetable adjustments to maximise energy recovery from efficient train braking techniques
- Prioritise bus and tram lines to increase network speed and reduce vehicles requirements at peaks
- Strengthen cooperation between operational and maintenance teams
- Improve policies and systems to optimise productivity
Taxis replacing buses
In Rennes and Quimper (France), Keolis has created an "agile" transport service by forging partnerships with taxi companies. During off-peak times in suburban areas, taxis are chartered to replace buses, bringing significant savings with no degradation of service quality for customers.
Make the right investments
Taking a lifecycle view of costs can make a substantial difference to both investments and operational expenditure. At Keolis we have developed efficient decision making tools, which we share with local transport authorities to determine whether rehabilitation, overhaul or replacement will be used to ensure that the asset meets its operational, performance, and longevity requirements.
Making savings together
In France, Keolis brought Brest Métropole and Greater Dijon together to buy their trams jointly.
Shared solutions developed by the Group are also available, providing savings in areas such as ticketing, passenger information and digital services.