Heralding a first for the UK bus and coach sector, TransMach will be showcasing its innovative 5G-enabled durable ETM (electronic ticket machine) at Euro Bus Expo in November, which represents a major step forward in cost-efficient, flexible and secure onboard ticketing for bus operators.
Having been in development during 2024 and currently undergoing field trials with a number of operators, TransMach’s TM700 is an Android-based ruggedized tablet with 5G capability, which delivers faster contactless transaction speeds and increased network security. The tablet also features an upgraded in-built GPS for improved geo-tracking of vehicles and provision of real-time service location information for passengers.
Also providing market-leading flexibility, the 8-inch tablet is housed in a highly durable ruggedized silicone outer case, which can be mounted in any vehicle. The unit is IP67-rated, ensuring the highest level of dust and water protection. It can either be locked into its dashboard mount or removed for the driver to conduct vehicle inspections.
The TM700 accepts contactless (cEMV) payments, ITSO smartcards and QR codes, offering full compatibility with any operator’s onboard hardware or digital ticketing systems.
TransMach expects to roll-out the TM700 to customers in early 2025, once any further refinements from the trials are completed. Commenting on the launch of its latest hardware, TransMach’s Director, Minesh Vandra, said:
““TransMach’s mission has always been to provide the latest technology that adds value to operators and enhances the passenger experience. Its 5G capability makes the TM700 unique in the UK bus industry and this will improve ticket processing speed and data security, which are two very important factors for operators. As well as future-proofing against the need for upgrades and maintenance, TransMach’s versatile new solution will also help customers to manage the complexity of BODS compliance by avoiding any data loss.
“In addition, a lot of effort has gone into ensuring that the new back-office system can manage multiple fare configurations at once, to make advance scheduling and pricing much easier, without disrupting existing set-ups. TransMach continues to focus on helping operators to make significant efficiencies in cost and time, by harnessing the benefits of security-assured contactless ticketing technology, backed up by a dedicated in-house support function and cloud-based asset management.”
As well as launching its industry-leading TM700 at Euro Bus Expo, TransMach will be discussing the developments being made in open and closed loop software for contactless ‘multi modal’ ticketing. In particular the growing use of TOTO (tap-on, tap-off) with credit and debit cards, as well as working with transport app providers to deliver payment-linked QR codes on smartphones, which are growing in popularity.
TransMach is exhibiting on stand 170 at Euro Bus Expo from 12-14 November at the NEC in Birmingham.