Enhancing Carsharing Experiences for Barcelona Citizens with Data Analytics and Intelligent Algorithms

Carsharing practices are spreading across many cities in the world. This paper analyzes real-life data obtained from a private carsharing company operating in the city of Barcelona, Spain. After describing the main trends in the data, machine learning and time-series analysis methods are employed to...

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Detalles Bibliográficos
Autores: Herrera, Erika M.|||0000-0001-9905-2203, Calvet, Laura|||0000-0001-8425-1381, Ghorbani, Elnaz|||0000-0001-7498-1030, Panadero, Javier|||0000-0002-3793-3328, Juan, Ángel A.|||0000-0003-1392-1776
Tipo de recurso: artículo
Fecha de publicación:2023
País:España
Institución:Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona
Repositorio:Dipòsit Digital de Documents de la UAB
Idioma:inglés
OAI Identifier:oai:ddd.uab.cat:287466
Acceso en línea:https://ddd.uab.cat/record/287466
https://dx.doi.org/urn:doi:10.3390/computers12020033
Access Level:acceso abierto
Palabra clave:Carsharing
Data analytics
Machine learning
Intelligent algorithms
Smart cities
Descripción
Sumario:Carsharing practices are spreading across many cities in the world. This paper analyzes real-life data obtained from a private carsharing company operating in the city of Barcelona, Spain. After describing the main trends in the data, machine learning and time-series analysis methods are employed to better understand citizens' needs and behavior, as well as to make predictions about the evolution of their demand for this service. In addition, an original proposal is made regarding the location of the pick-up points. This proposal is based on a capacitated dispersion algorithm, and aims at balancing two relevant factors, including scattering of pick-up points (so that most users can benefit from the service) and efficiency (so that areas with higher demand are well covered). Our aim is to gain a deeper understanding of citizens' needs and behavior in relation to carsharing services. The analysis includes three main components: descriptive, predictive, and prescriptive, resulting in customer segmentation and forecast of service demand, as well as original concepts for optimizing parking station location.