The Rhein Main Verkehrsverbund (RMV) and Hanau Strassenbahn (HSB) have launched a pilot for an advanced electronic ticketing system.
This pilot is the prototype for a comprehensive electronic ticketing system for the entire RMV region, one of the largest Public Transport regions in Europe. The system is being provided by a team of T-Systems, a subsidiary of Deutsche Telecom, and Cubic Transportation Systems, Ltd.
The new ticketing system has been installed on more than 60 buses operated by Hanaper Strassenbahn AG (HSB) in Hanau.
The new system employs advanced technology including a microprocessor, dual interface (contact-contact less) smart card and check-in/check-out bus Validators. The check-in/check-out Validator processes tickets on both entry and exit. Check-in/check-out allows the application of distance-based fares (such as zones) without driver intervention. This is a major breakthrough in providing transit operators increased flexibility and revenue.
The system also includes the use of the Cubic Tri-Reader® (supporting a variety of card technologies and applications), a transaction management computer and software, hand-held inspection units and a wireless communication network that transmits data from the buses to the depot computer systems.
Since the security features of the dual interface smart card are compatible with German national "electronic purses," such as GeldKarte, it has the capability of multiple applications in addition to transportation. The pilot also promotes a national electronic ticketing standard, which is supported by the Verband -Deutscher Verkehrsunternehmen, a body of public transport operators in Germany.
