The introduction of digital technologies in the automotive sector has led to rapid changes in its operations and business processes. It has also introduced new business models to the sector, such as smart mobility services. Driven by ubiquitous connectivity, smartphones, and the app ecosystem, smart mobility services like ridesharing, on-demand goods transportation, and peer-to-peer car rentals are now mainstream. These solutions offer a way to better utilize the empty seats and available payload in vehicles, thus lowering fuel usage and transportation costs.
In the case of ridesharing, smartphone apps match rides using an optimization algorithm and handle driver payments. It seems likely that ridesharing will make use of autonomous vehicle technologies in the future, given the number of pilot programs underway testing the use of autonomous vehicles for ridesharing.
There are a number of global and local players for ridesharing. Uber, for instance, has operations in multiple countries. Others are currently key players in specific markets like Lyft (U.S.A.), Didi (China) and Ola (India) with plans for expansion to other countries. Our IP landscape report studies patents that are currently in force, addressing the technologies and applications related to ridesharing.
