Newport Transport is the latest user to sign up to UrbanThings’ smart mobility platform, Ticketless.
The Ticketless app provides passengers with real-time information and mobile ticketing, validated via a QR code using Newport Transport’s existing hardware.
Check-in data is then sent to the Ticketless cloud-based backend system where Newport Transport has access to data such as live passenger metrics.
UrbanThings’ social distancing technology is included as part of the solution. The feature captures live occupancy data and generates predictions of how crowded a service will be for passengers, with data fed back to Newport Transport and its passengers.
CEO of UrbanThings Carl Partridge says: “We are delighted to be partnering with Newport Transport to provide a smart travel platform that brings together real time information and m-ticketing in a single app. The team there is eager to be at the forefront of new innovations, and we look forward to the ongoing relationship as we work with them to future-proof their systems.”
Adds Scott Pearson, Managing Director of Newport Transport: “The Ticketless platform provides the ideal solution for Newport Bus. It offers a modern, easy-to-use and reliable mobile travel app to our passengers. Within an increasingly contactless and paperless world, the Newport Bus app has been designed to meet the high expectations of our customer.
“As part of our service improvement strategy, the launch of the app follows the implementation of contactless payments in March and will bring additional convenience and flexibility to bus travel and I am hopeful that it will encourage more people to give the bus a try and make the switch.”
The main features of the Newport Bus app include:
- Prior purchase of day tickets, weekly and four-weekly passports for travel with the Newport Bus network
- Real time bus time information and tracking, and traffic levels within the city
- Occupancy levels of approaching buses and predicted levels at individual stops
- Gifting of mobile tickets and passports to other Newport Bus users, and notifications for ticket use to benefit parents buying tickets for their children.