Public-transport taxi takes off: How the taxi complements bus and rail in Görlitz

Since May of last year, passengers can use the public-transport taxi there. For five euros, reduced to three, a taxi takes them to the next stop or to the train station. The service is called “PriMa+ÖV” and traces back to the Verkehrsverbund Oberlausitz-Niederschlesien (ZVON). Now it is to be introduced in the southern part of the district.

Booking via smartphone – or by phone

The principle is simple. Those who want to participate sign up once and book the ride via smartphone. For people without internet access there is now also a telephone booking via the ZVON customer service line. The call taxis operate between 5 a.m. and 10 p.m. and step in where buses and trains run only rarely or not at all.

On average, around 60 trips are currently booked per month. The project started with about 20 trips. Ilka Hunger from ZVON explained in a conversation with MDR that they had hoped for even more. Especially in the sprawling municipality of Boxberg with its many localities, the potential is large. But in conversations with residents, it becomes clear again and again: many are not yet aware of the offer.

For commuters, students and tourists

The ÖPNV taxi is used by very different groups. Commuters use it early to get to the train, students in the afternoon, tourists on weekends. Doctor visits also play a role. The times are widely spread – from very early in the morning to late in the evening.

For the taxi companies, the model is economically viable. The transport association offsets the difference between the discounted fare and the regular taxi tariff. The taxi meter runs; the association pays the top-up. In other regions, this model has already proven itself. In Freudenstadt, for example, according to Ilka Hunger, the ÖPNV taxi has led to more taxi licenses being requested again.