Co-Op Cabs, long-time users of Mentor Engineering’s rugged in-vehicle computers, have implemented the Mentor IntelliFleet automated dispatch system to accommodate increasing call volumes, respond quickly to customer requests, track the exact location of drivers, and distribute rides fairly amongst their 470-vehicle fleet.
“At Co-Op Cabs, keeping our customers happy with efficient service, and keeping our drivers happy with fair trip distribution is the bread and butter of our business, and IntelliFleet helps us do this better,” says Peter Zahakos, the company’s General Manager.
Taxi organizations have been using IntelliFleet software for over 17 years to automate the call-taking and dispatching process. When a customer calls to request a pickup, the system detects the caller’s phone number and address, and instantly fills in that information on the call-taker’s screen. The trip is then automatically offered to the most eligible driver.
Prior to using IntelliFleet, Co-Op Cabs had a dispatch system through another supplier, but wanted both their hardware and software from one company. Already equipped with rugged in-vehicle computers from Mentor, Co-Op Cabs liked that IntelliFleet, as Peter describes:
For Peter, one of the biggest benefits of IntelliFleet is the ability to now have a cab stand process. When drivers book into a service zone, IntelliFleet captures this information and automatically selects the closest available taxi to the waiting customer, speeding service.
IntelliFleet is modularly designed, so as Co-Op Cabs grows and their needs change, they can add modules to their existing software package. IntelliFleet’s newest module, IntelliRouter, paratransit riders requiring less support can be transferred to taxis. IntelliRouter sends details such as the pick-up location directly to the appropriate taxi and lets managers at the transit agency monitor paratransit rides in real-time, automatically price rides according to the service provided, and generate trip reports each day.
“IntelliFleet helps us grow as an organization because it’s stable and it works,” says Peter.
