A free app has been launched by a Jersey entrepreneur, aimed at helping Islanders combat rising fuel prices while at the same time reducing road pollution and traffic jams.
Triskel Ride is a ride-sharing app that allows commuters to share travel costs and therefore reduce the number of vehicles on the road during rush hour, and help Jersey attain its net-zero emissions target.
In the last year, we’ve seen average motor fuel prices in Jersey rise over 30%* increasing commuter and regular journey costs. At the same time, 32% of our carbon emissions in Jersey come from road transport** and we lose 400,000 hours a year sat in peak-time traffic jams, according to Government of Jersey statistics. Part of the reason is that over 40% of commuters drive to work alone in their vehicles. Entrepreneur, Xavier Rouxel (pictured) came up with the idea for Triskel Ride, after using a similar app in France.
The app allows drivers to recoup some money by dividing the cost of the journey by the number of passengers in the car. It is not a back-door taxi service, drivers can only share costs, not charge for the service and make a profit, making it the only legal car-sharing app available on the Island. In addition, Jersey Trees for Life will receive donations via the app which will increase the positive environmental impact further.
Xavier commented: “Most Islanders are struggling with rising costs, but Triskel Ride isn’t just a short term fix, it has long term gains. If we had less cars on the road during rush hour, we would not only improve air quality but all get to work faster and more efficiently. There are people who, for whatever reason, are unable to use the bus service, and yet their neighbours are making the same journey into and out of town each day and spending hundreds of pounds each month on car parking. As a sustainable mode of transport, we should try to include ride-sharing whenever possible in our everyday routines, whether we use it a couple of times a week or on a more regular basis. If we started sharing rides that would not only improve our environment and our lifestyles but also cut our costs.”
How does Triskel Ride work?
- Users download the free app and can choose to verify their identity through Yoti. This provides security for any potentially vulnerable passengers and drivers. Drivers will also need to say they are insured.
- With one click, users can see all available rides and ride requests on the dashboard.
- The app will work out the cost of the journey and the equal share to be paid between all people on board based on mileage and the flat rate charge per mile.
- Users will be able to keep a record of their environmental impact, with data showing how many vehicles they’ve removed from the road, and how much Co2 has been reduced.
- Users will also be able to earn Eco points which can be used with local businesses.
- Women can opt to have a female-only option.
- Covid guidelines are followed. Passengers are advised to wear masks and if necessary open windows, while drivers are also encouraged to wipe down door handles.
