Once completed, all of Connexxion’s buses will be fitted with a new onboard computer system that will be directly linked to the operator’s central control centre. A constant stream of information from and to the vehicle will be used to update passenger information systems both onboard and at bus stops as well as via the Internet or mobile phone. Through a direct link to each vehicle’s navigation system, the exact position of every bus will be continuously updated allowing schedules to be monitored and as closely adhered to as possible. It will also announce approaching bus stops through the public address system within each bus.

The drivers are continuously in direct contact with the central control centre via a public GSM-network. An integrated touch screen in the dashboard will directly present all information from the central control centre to the driver in a well-organised manner. This will allow Connexxion to optimise passenger yield and by so doing improve quality of service to the public.

Furthermore, the new system will facilitate passengers to pay with their contactless chipcard on the bus. The onboard computer manages the equipment for access and automatic billing to the passengers’ contactless chip card.

Rob van Holten, Vice Chairman of the Executive Board of Connexxion Holding NV, said: “The fundamental thing that any passenger using public transport wants is a quick, efficient and hassle-free journey. This new system allows us to provide this to an even greater degree than we have ever been able to previously. Our passengers will be guaranteed faster journeys as the buses are able to provide better service and importantly passengers will be able to find out when their next bus is due either at the stop or remotely via the Internet or phone. Furthermore, the new contactless chipcard will mean a more convenient, transparent and safe method of passenger travel. As such we are confident that this system is going to set a new global standard in bus transport.”

Chris Jenkins, CEO at the e-Ticketing BV, said: “This is an important step in the implementation of the new e-ticketing system we are implementing in The Netherlands. Allowing each bus to interact with the passengers’ contactless chipcard is the best possible utilisation of the technology for the benefit of the customer. This, combined with the real-time passenger information, will revolutionise the experience of travelling by bus in The Netherlands.”

East West e-Ticketing BV consists of Thales, Accenture and Vialis and implements the chip card for public transport in The Netherlands by order of Trans Link Systems, consisting of NS, Connexxion, GVB, RET and HTM.

Connexxion is the biggest provider of regional and urban bus transportation, carrying one million passengers per day with 14,160 employees that are engaged in public transportation, taxi transport, touring cars and naval passenger transportation. This is carried out with big and small buses, trams, ships and trains.