Comparing a DAS guided driving strategy with a shortest time driving strategy one gets the theoretical saving potential. For typical recovery times offered by the time table it lies between 20 and over 30 %.

The real saving potential is however considerably lower, for three reasons:

• Even without DAS drivers do not pursue a shortest time driving strategy, but use a more energy efficient driving style according to their experience, skill and motivation. If there are no delays this may cut energy consumption by 20%.
• Due to delays the DAS often cannot be used. This may well be the case for about 50% of the trips.
• Some drivers may ignore the advice due to the purely advisory character of the system:.

Taking these factors into account, the remaining potential in suburban transport lies between 5 and 20%. In some networks, the potential is even higher: The two-year test on the suburban lines in Adelaide yielded savings between 12 and 30% depending on the line. Siemens claims that the energy savings achieved with the Metromiser are an average 10% in existing timetables and with an additional timetable optimisation even an average 15%.