Spare AI's "Where is my bus?" feature provides riders with real-time departure information for fixed route transit services through natural voice conversations. Riders simply call to get instant updates on when the next bus will arrive at their stop.
What Problems Does This Solve?
For Riders:
Uncertainty about bus arrival times at stops
Difficulty accessing mobile apps or online schedules
No smartphone or internet connection required
Accessible 24/7 without calling a live agent
For Transit Agencies:
Reduces call center volume for routine departure inquiries
Frees staff to handle complex support needs
Extends service availability beyond business hours
Provides multilingual support automatically
How It Works
When a rider calls asking about bus arrivals, Spare AI:
Identifies the stop - by name, number, or location
Clarifies the route - if multiple routes serve that stop
Provides departure times - next 2-3 upcoming buses with real-time arrival predictions
Example Conversation
Rider: "When is the next Route 10 bus on Main Street?"
Spare AI: "The next Route 10 bus will arrive at Main Street and 5th Avenue in 4 minutes, followed by another in 18 minutes."
Benefits
✅ 24/7 availability - No dependency on call center hours
✅ Reduced call volume - Automate routine departure inquiries
✅ Improved accessibility - No smartphone or app required
✅ Multilingual support - Natural conversation in multiple languages
✅ Easy integration - Works with existing GTFS real-time feeds
How to Use
Contact your Spare representative to enable this feature. Requires an active GTFS real-time feed.
Technical Requirements
GTFS Real-Time Feed required for accurate departure predictions
Authentication: No rider authentication required to use this feature
Data accuracy: Only as accurate as your GTFS real-time feed