News / Sponsored Feature
Care free and car free with Slide
Thursday 22 September is ‘World Car Free Day’. In Bristol increasing numbers of commuters use Slide, an innovative alternative to car, bus or train, provided by global transport player, RATP Dev.
A Slide app pinpoints where to send their exec-style minibuses citywide. Commuters get a comfortable, shared, cost-effective journey, and congestion and pollution are cut at the same time. Real-time data on traffic jams allows drivers to make swift diversions and keep to schedule.
Imogen Dow, Go Green Co-ordinator Bristol, said: “This time of year we see traffic at its worst, so with World Car Free Day on Thursday being promoted in Bristol, we hope lots of people will support it by giving Slide a try.”
is needed now More than ever
Slide’s global launch in Bristol was just six weeks ago and reflects a need for tech-driven alternatives to traditional commuter modes of transport.
Tim Jackson, CEO of RATP Dev UK, said: “We chose Bristol because we knew the city would welcome anything that reduces congestion. But we also know it’s a place where tech and new business thrives so it’s a fantastic place to reach ‘early adopters’ of new technology.
“What we’re offering is a completely new concept in shared commuting. We hope that Bristol’s independent spirit and way of embracing new ideas means that people will have a go at ‘Sliding’ to work.
How does it work?
Slide allows Bristol commuters to book a ride to and from work by using an app (from www.slidebristol.com). They can book a ride in a ‘Slide’ in advance or just minutes before the journey they wish to make.
Slide’s new technology calculates the best route to each destination based on similar journey requests.
Unlike bus routes, Slide routes are created organically, according to user demand. Passengers will be given a pick-up point no more than five minutes’ walk from their starting point and a pick-up time.
Up to eight passengers can travel in a Slide, enjoying Wi-Fi and air conditioning, and they will be provided with real time updates on the app along the way.
The cost of a Slide is on average half that of a taxi and just a little more than a bus fare, eg. a single from Filton to Bristol city centre is £7, with shorter distances such as Temple Meads to Clifton just £4.
The flexible and versatile service is based on recommendations from Bristolians via their website – now extended to include Westbury and Stoke Bishop.
To learn more about Slide Bristol please visit: www.slidebristol.com/