Overview #
BORA (Board On, Ride Along) is a secure ride-sharing platform designed to revolutionize commutes for the University of Porto (U.Porto). By transforming empty car seats into shared moments, it solves critical mobility challenges for students.
The Challenge #
Large institutions face immense logistical and environmental hurdles daily, from severe parking pressure to the growing need for sustainable practices. BORA tackles these challenges head-on with a comprehensive mobility solution that optimizes carpool matching, significantly reducing the influx of single-occupancy vehicles.
Beyond simply alleviating traffic, BORA addresses the practical realities of daily commuters. An automated, non-profit Cost-Sharing Engine calculates fair trip prices based on specific route and vehicle metrics, making travel much more affordable.
Ultimately, BORA is about more than just logistics. It actively combats social isolation by bridging people together, transforming mundane daily commutes into opportunities for meaningful connection within a verified, exclusive network.
Core Features #
- Federated Authentication: Leverages strict institutional email verification to ensure a trusted, closed network where only verified members can access the platform.
- Smart Discovery: Users can explore trips through an interactive city map and apply advanced route filtering.
- Carbon Footprint Tracking: An ESG Engine tracks the CO₂ emissions saved on every trip, providing users with tangible environmental feedback.
- Auto-Regulated Community: A two-way reputation system and dedicated user reporting tools allow the community to effectively self-regulate and maintain a safe environment.
- Gamification: A rewarding points system allows users to earn points for completed rides, which can be exchanged for tangible institutional rewards to encourage sustained engagement.
Beyond the Present #
While initially developed for the University of Porto, BORA is a scalable solution that can be easily replicated and adapted for other universities, institutions, and companies looking to improve their mobility and sustainability.
BORA isn’t just an app—it’s a movement towards more connected, sustainable, and cost-effective communities.