Files
Abstract
This paper estimates a single class stochastic cost frontier model that accounts for heterogeneity by
including background variables and a latent class model of the same specification. It is found that
both the two-sided random errors and one-sided errors (cost inefficiency) are substantially smaller
in the latter model than it is in the former, suggesting possible bias in the estimates of inefficiency
from the single class model. Further, 58.9%–68.39% of the calculated inefficiencies are due to
differences in technology captured by the latent classes. The paper concludes that using background
variables only to capture heterogeneity may exaggerate measured inefficiencies in transit systems
and suggests the latent class approach as a solution.