"Youth π" is Yantai's first online ride-hailing bus service without fixed routes. [Photo/WeChat account: ytkfqfb]

Yantai in East China's Shandong province has introduced its first demand-responsive bus service, "Youth π", providing smart commuting alternatives. Initially operating around Bajiao University Town and AEON Mall in the Huang-Bohai New Area, the service is aimed at meeting the weekend travel needs of students and shoppers.

With a flexible booking model, passengers can reserve rides via WeChat by selecting stops and the number of passengers. The system assigns the nearest vehicle and provides real-time updates, reducing wait times.

Currently available on weekends from 8:30 am to 6 pm, the service covers about 20 locations, including local university campuses and the mall. Rides are 5 yuan ($0.71), with a 40 percent discount during the trial period through Jan 25, 2026.

Yantai Public Transport Group stated that this initiative is designed to complement conventional bus routes and enhance urban mobility through data-driven scheduling and expanded service areas.