Argo launches Smart Routing pilot with Presto

Executive Summary

• Argo Corp. has launched its "Smart Routing" pilot service in Brampton, Ontario, utilizing fully electric Argo X1 buses to provide on-demand transit.
• The service integrates with the existing Brampton Transit and GO Transit networks, allowing for seamless transfers under Ontario's One Fare Program via Presto fare integration.
• The pilot program runs for 12 months, operating weekdays from 5:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. in the downtown Brampton area, aiming to augment the existing fixed-route network.

Key Details

• Service Launch: Argo launched its Smart Routing pilot service in Brampton, connecting to existing Brampton Transit routes with on-demand, fully electric service.
• Operational Hours & Location: The service operates weekdays from 5:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. in the downtown Brampton area.
• Fare Integration: Argo entered into an agreement with Metrolinx (an agency of the government of Ontario) to install Presto fare collection devices on Argo's X1 electric buses. This enables full fare integration for transfers to and from Brampton Transit and GO Transit under Ontario's One Fare Program.
• Pilot Duration: The service is part of a 12-month pilot program.
• Previous Performance Metrics: As previously announced, Argo's Smart Routing system more than doubled average daily transit ridership in the town of Bradford West Gwillimbury and drove a 5.5-times increase in monthly transit connections to Bradford GO Station.
• App Access: Residents can download the Argo Transit app to use the service.

Notable Quotes

• "Brampton is shaping the future of urban transit, and innovations like Argo's Smart Routing are helping us create a city that moves smarter, faster and greener. This is how we turn growth into opportunity for every resident." — Mayor Patrick Brown, City of Brampton
• "Brampton Transit is proud to be leading the way in transit innovation within our robust existing network. The launch of Argo's on-demand service in Brampton gives residents a modern first- and last-mile solution." — Heidi Dempster, General Manager, Brampton Transit
• "The city of Brampton is home to one of the most robust and fastest-growing transit networks in North America. This partnership is a testament to Brampton Transit's commitment to innovation and will demonstrate how Smart Routing can augment and strengthen existing transit services in a major city." — Praveen Arichandran, CEO and Co-founder, Argo Corp.