WionDrive News Desk 
The Toyota Mobility Foundation (TMF) announced the launch of METS Micro, a new on-demand, app-based public transit pilot service in collaboration with micro-transit provider Via, the Evansville Metropolitan Planning Organization (Evansville MPO), and Energy Systems Network (ESN). This marks the fourth and final project under TMF’s ‘Together in Motion’ initiative.
Set to commence operations on November 28, METS Micro will allow residents within a designated area in southeast Evansville to book on-demand rides through the METS Micro app. Upon booking, Via’s advanced algorithms will match riders heading in the same direction, optimising shared vehicle usage for quick and efficient trips. This flexible transit option is designed to extend the reach of METS’ existing services into areas where fixed-route buses may face efficiency challenges.
Operating from Monday to Saturday, 6:15 a.m. to 12 a.m., and on Sundays from 6:15 a.m. to 6 p.m., METS Micro rides will be available at a cost of $2. The fleet consists of four Toyota Sienna minivans, with two configured to be wheelchair accessible.
Ryan Klem, Director of Programs at the Toyota Mobility Foundation, emphasised the collaborative nature of the initiative, saying, “The METS Micro pilot in Evansville is an expansion of our ‘Together in Motion’ initiative that exemplifies the power of collaboration between local and state public and private entities, setting the stage for achieving greater equity in transportation access.”
Evansville Mayor Lloyd Winnecke expressed appreciation, stating, “The launch of METS Micro stands as a testament to the hard work, innovation, and dedication of our entire team. Collaborating with Via and benefiting from the generous support of Toyota Mobility Foundation and Energy Systems Network, we’re not just enhancing our transit system―we’re envisioning a brighter, more connected future for Evansville.”
Todd Robertson, Executive Director for the City of Evansville Transportation Services, added, “With help and two years of innovative thinking, even though it’s a pilot program, I am glad to see another affordable transit opportunity in Evansville and look forward to its expansion in the future.”
Prior to METS Micro, TMF conducted autonomous vehicle trials and a contactless delivery trial as part of the ‘Together in Motion’ initiative in Indiana. While rooted in Indiana, TMF envisions extending the initiative to other regions, building on the insights gained from the Evansville micro-transit trial.
