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Effects of numerical platforms on individual choices and social welfare: The case of short-distance carpooling

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  • Le Goff, Alix
  • Monchambert, Guillaume
  • Koning, Martin

Abstract

This paper investigates the effects of carpooling organization on the propensity to carpool. We test whether pre-trip planning and the use of a platform influence the choice of carpooling over driving alone and public transport. In a stated choice experiment, we collected responses from 3600 residents of the Lyon urban area, France. Our econometric results suggest that platforms increase individual willingness to carpool, and that the effect of the platform is stronger for passengers than for drivers. We illustrate these results with a stylized social welfare analysis, which reveals a significant contradiction between what would be needed to make carpooling beneficial from a welfare perspective – passengers should be subsidized – and the current pricing schemes, which subsidize mainly drivers.

Suggested Citation

  • Le Goff, Alix & Monchambert, Guillaume & Koning, Martin, 2025. "Effects of numerical platforms on individual choices and social welfare: The case of short-distance carpooling," Economics of Transportation, Elsevier, vol. 41(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:ecotra:v:41:y:2025:i:c:s2212012224000480
    DOI: 10.1016/j.ecotra.2024.100389
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    Keywords

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    JEL classification:

    • C35 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Multiple or Simultaneous Equation Models; Multiple Variables - - - Discrete Regression and Qualitative Choice Models; Discrete Regressors; Proportions
    • R41 - Urban, Rural, Regional, Real Estate, and Transportation Economics - - Transportation Economics - - - Transportation: Demand, Supply, and Congestion; Travel Time; Safety and Accidents; Transportation Noise
    • R42 - Urban, Rural, Regional, Real Estate, and Transportation Economics - - Transportation Economics - - - Government and Private Investment Analysis; Road Maintenance; Transportation Planning

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