Train operator Southern is to trial new smartcard technology – an alternative to paper tickets – making it easier and quicker for rail passengers to buy and use tickets.
Called ‘the key’, the new smartcard is reusable and can be recharged again and again with various types of ticket including seasons, singles and returns.
The trial will be at all stations on the line from Brighton to Seaford where work has started on installing the equipment required to support the smartcard system.
100 passengers will take part, reporting back on their experience of the system so that Southern can refine it before rolling it out elsewhere. The trial is due to start in September.
The key smartcard system will provide passengers with quicker and easier ticket purchase online or via ticket machines at Southern stations in a one touch transaction, and they will be able to store and manage different ticket products through their personal online account.
The benefits of the key are:
- Simple – easier to use
- Save – smarter tickets, smarter fares
- Speedy – avoid the queues
- Safe – your tickets are protected
Southern’s Development Director Alex Foulds said:
“This is just the start. The key smartcard will evolve over time with many possibilities for the future.
“For example in time we will be able to tailor ticket products such as ‘early bird’ season tickets for those who travel earlier than the morning rush hour, or perhaps a carnet-style season ticket for less frequent travellers.
“There will also be opportunities for integrated travel tickets such as rail-bus tickets.”
when does it go public , meaning when after the trail ,because the guys at seaford station don,t seem to know ,plus it would be usefull in seaford , as it is always closed due to sickness or not enough when southern is always making a big profit each year ,put the prices up but the standards go down, its a embrassment .