Frequently Asked Questions
General
Q: What are commuter vans or dollar vans?
Commuter vans or “dollar vans” are an informal mode of transportation that has played an integral part in NYC's transportation system for over 30 years. Particularly in parts of NYC where public transportation is most scarce, commuter vans have served a loyal customer base of thousands of daily commuters, delivering accessible transportation service for as little as $2 per ride, and relying primarily on word of mouth as marketing.
Q: Who is Dollaride?
Dollaride is a mobility company committed to improving transportation in underserved communities. Founded by Su Sanni (CEO) and Chris Coles (CTO) in 2018, Dollaride was started from the belief that everyone, regardless of where they live, should have access to affordable, efficient, and clean transportation. Dollaride provides affordable transportation services throughout communities in Brooklyn and Queens, where “dollar vans'' have historically filled transit gaps.
Clean Transit Access Program
Q: What is the Clean Transit Access Program (CTAP)?
The Clean Transit Access Program (CTAP) is a sustainable initiative aimed at creating a greener and more efficient dollar van network. It encourages drivers to use electric vehicles for lower maintenance and fuel costs, less ticketing and harassment from authorities, and a healthier community through lowered emissions. Learn more at dollaride.com/ctap.
Q: What are the target outcomes for the CTAP trial?
The outcomes for the trial include determining vehicle and charger specs, criteria for charging sites, pricing and agreement structure for drivers, software requirements, and potential risks that can be mitigated through community engagement and learnings during the trial period.
Q: How will trial drivers be selected and supported?
Trial drivers have been selected through internal communication and field outreach with CTAP project teammates and advisors. Negotiations on the trial's terms, conditions, and payments were the determining factors.
We will continue seeking driver participation during and after the trial. Current and interested commuter van drivers are welcome to contact us for more information on how to join our driver network.
Trial drivers will receive support in three phases: (1) trust-building and project education, (2) compliance and training, and (3) after-sales troubleshooting and driver satisfaction.
Q: What is the plan for trial vehicles and chargers?
Currently, there will be four trial vehicles, procured from two vendors, based on criteria like software integration, price, warranty, and after-sales support.
Four L2 plug-in chargers will be used, selected based on pricing, delivery, 97% uptime requirements, and interoperability.
Q: How is the trial site chosen?
The trial site will be located within a 45-minute radius of the trial drivers' home addresses and/or work routes. It will support the trial chargers and vehicles without needing major infrastructure upgrades, and be secure and available on a short-term lease.
Q: What is the business model for the CTAP trial?
Dollaride will own the assets for the trial duration, with trial drivers entering a rental agreement that covers the cost of operations and maintenance for the vehicle and chargers.
The cost of financing chargers will be incorporated into the fee a trial driver pays to receive the vehicle.
Q: What are the costs associated with the CTAP trial?
Contact phil@dollaride.com OR jordan@dollaride.com for more information on the driver costs associated with the CTAP trial.
Q: How can non-trial drivers contribute to the program?
Even if you are not a trial driver you can join our network to receive updates and provide valuable input on what would work best for you as a future EV owner.
This includes ideal parking and charging locations, the best size vehicles to optimize daily business, and the most important shuttle routes throughout the city.
Q: How does CTAP help in reducing maintenance and fuel costs?
EVs used in CTAP require less maintenance and their charging costs are lower than gasoline expenses. Overall, the program establishes new ways for drivers to save on maintenance and fuel, preparing them for citywide sustainability goals.
Q: What support does CTAP provide in terms of training and licensing?
CTAP provides access to hands-on EV training and (CDL, TLC) licensing assistance. Licensed drivers will learn how to operate and maintain new electric commuter vans, while unlicensed drivers gain access to streamlined support to get fully licensed, allowing both hit the the road without worries.
Q: How can I get in touch for more information about CTAP?
For more information visit dollaride.com/ctap.