West Sacramento to electrify Via rideshare fleet with hybrid vehicles
The city of West Sacramento announced its on-demand transit service, Via Rideshare, will begin to replace its entire vehicle fleet with electric plug-in hybrid vehicles.
The decision underscores the city’s historic leadership in using tech and innovation to advance sustainable, equitable transportation for all. To celebrate, free Via rides were available to and from the NeighborGood Farmers’ Market in the Bridge District on Aug. 27 between 9:00 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. with the code GREEN827.
About Via Rideshare
West Sacramento launched the on-demand service in May 2018 in partnership with Via, with the goal to use TransitTech to expand access to flexible, convenient public transportation, and to reduce reliance on private cars. Via Rideshare has provided more than half a million rides to-date for the city’s residents, workers and visitors of all ages.
Anyone in the city’s service zone can book a shared ride at a moment’s notice through the Via app or by calling a phone number. Via’s algorithms match riders headed in the same direction into one vehicle, and each rider is directed to a nearby “virtual bus stop” within walking distance from their location. This dynamic routing model allows for quick, efficient shared trips without fixed routes or schedules.
The introduction of hybrid EVs to the Via Rideshare fleet follows new research from Via which found that the service has reduced travel emissions in West Sacramento by 22 percent when compared to the transit methods that were available before the service launched.
How to book a Via ride:
- Create an account. Download the Via app from the App Store or Google Play and follow the simple signup steps.
- Book a ride. Enter the pickup and dropoff address. Choose the ride that works by tapping Book This Ride. To request a wheelchair accessible vehicle, tap the accessibility icon in your profile.
- Meet your driver. Check out the app to find out exactly where to meet the vehicle. It may be a short walk from where you are, but it makes the journey faster.
Riders without smartphones can also book by calling. Rides are $3.50 per ride, or $1.75 for seniors and people with eligible disabilities with valid ID or application. Via service hours are Monday to Friday 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.; Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.; Sunday 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
