The EMBARQ BRT Simulator shows how small changes can make a big impact on cities planning new BRT corridors. Photo by Rodrigo Soldon.

The EMBARQ BRT Simulator, a computer software tool, tests and improves the design of proposed bus rapid transit systems across Latin America. The software evaluates traffic flows and detects potential problems before any real construction begins, which could help cities save valuable time and money during the planning process.

In Rio de Janeiro, CTS-Brasil staff tested the performance of three
proposed BRT corridors. The simulation showed that slight adjustments, with minimal additional costs, could increase passenger capacity by up to 50 percent.

The tool has already been applied to improve two critical bus stations in downtown Recife and to compare different operational scenarios for the expansion in Mexico City of Metrobús, including its integration with suburban rail.

Simulator in Action

To increase the efficiency of mass transit, CTS-Brasil can use its simulator software to test an estimated 2,600 kilometers of planned BRT corridors in large cities across Brazil.

Charts & graphs

Rio de Janeiro BRT Simulation by CTS-Brasil.