Start-ups remain central to microtransit innovation

In the mid to late-2010s, several microtransit start-ups began attracting the attention of automotive insiders. The idea of flexible, on-demand transit that worked in a similar way to app-based ride-hailing solutions seemed an ingenious solution to transit issues. Some were entirely new companies, like Bridj or Chariot, which was later acquired by Ford. Meanwhile, ride-hailing companies like Uber and Lyft began to branch out into transit services.