Our primary goal is to support international students who face transportation challenges while studying abroad. Many immigrant students struggle to afford a personal vehicle, making daily commutes to classes and other travel needs difficult. Our carpool initiative aims to provide a safe, reliable, and cost-effective transportation solution, especially for those with late-night classes or living beyond the service areas of Cleveland State University’s escort services.
Carpooling offers multiple benefits:
- Reduced Traffic Congestion: Fewer vehicles on the road lead to shorter commute times.
- Environmental Impact: Less traffic results in lower air pollution, promoting a healthier environment.
- Energy Conservation: Shared rides reduce fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.
- Cost Savings: Splitting expenses for gas, tolls, and parking makes transportation more affordable.
Background
A student car-share pool can serve as an economical and practical mobility solution for those lacking access to personal vehicles or reliable public transportation. By participating in a carpool system, students can lower their travel expenses while gaining flexibility in their schedules.
To achieve this, our system will:
- Develop a user-friendly app or website for easy carpool reservations.
- Implement a reservation system to ensure fair access and vehicle availability.
- Introduce a cost-effective, pay-per-use pricing model.
This initiative will not only benefit students but also align with the interests of stakeholders, including Cleveland State University. By addressing these transportation challenges, the program can establish a sustainable, long-term mobility solution.
Current System Analysis
Currently, students rely on ride-hailing services like Uber and Lyft, which do not offer a dedicated carpooling option. Additionally, Cleveland State University does not provide an exclusive student car-share pool, leaving many students without an affordable and convenient transportation alternative.
Proposed System
A student-focused shared carpool program will offer numerous advantages, including traffic reduction, cost savings, and environmental benefits. The system will function as follows:
- Students with a car can list available rides for others to join.
- Students without a car can create an account and book rides.
- Seamless payments through an integrated payment gateway ensure hassle-free transactions.
Survey Insights
Survey data indicates that many students, particularly international students, are dissatisfied with existing transportation options. Limited student car ownership and scarce parking around Cleveland State University exacerbate the problem. These insights reinforce the need for a structured carpool solution.
Product Vision
For international students at Cleveland State University seeking an affordable, reliable, and secure ride, our shared-ride service offers a seamless transportation solution. By connecting students traveling in the same direction, we reduce traffic congestion, enhance mobility, and ensure a cost-effective commute.
Unlike traditional ride-hailing services, our platform prioritizes student needs, offering greater reliability at a lower cost.
Screenshots
