Cardiff Bus upgrades Ticketer platform to use TK300 machines
Cardiff Bus upgrades Ticketer platform to use TK300 machines
Cardiff Bus is another operator to upgrade its Ticketer platform by introducing the TK300 machine. In addition to deploying those units, the operator will benefit from Road Restriction Alerts, and further enhancements that Ticketer says are set to launch later in 2025.
The TK300 has an Android-based driver console and an updated contactless card reader. Ticketer adds that it thus delivers improved driver usability, faster transactions, and full compatibility with a range of payment methods including American Express.
Cardiff Bus Commercial and Operations Director Gareth Stevens notes how the new TK300 machines represent a continuation of the municipal operator’s partnership with Ticketer that began in 2013.
“Working collaboratively in that time, we have deployed some of the new initiatives as they have arisen – for example, being early adopters of the EMV and QR capabilities,” he continues.
“This has allowed us to keep our ticketing range modern and fresh – especially as we have seen several changes over recent years in our customers’ preference for flexible ticketing options.
“The ability to continually reinvest in our business is one that we are proud of – and we look forward to the benefits for staff and customers alike.”
Ticketer will add a new voice messaging and broadcast solution to its platform later this year, the supplier says. That will facilitate two-way communication between controllers and drivers and be available only on the TK300 via its driver console, microphone and speakers.
In addition, the TK300 driver console is in development to be detachable, further leveraging the tablet’s in-built camera and allowing more efficient walk-round vehicle checks to be logged digitally.
Chief Commercial and Operations Officer Adam Toone has thanked Cardiff Bus for its ongoing business. “It is fantastic to see continued investment in modern, passenger-focused technology in the region,” he says.
“With the TK300, Cardiff Bus is now equipped with our fastest, most capable ticketing technology – futureproofing its services and enabling seamless travel for its community.”
German design house unveils 'bus for everyone' concept
German design house unveils 'bus for everyone' concept
German design house Neomind has unveiled a concept for a "Universal Bus" that places inclusivity at the heart of public transport design (pictured).
The concept was revealed at The Transport Design Forum 2025, held in London last week, hosted by coach and bus flooring manufacturer Altro, in partnership with Camira, AutoGlym, and Autistica.
The event brought together operators, designers and neurodivergent advocates to address overlooked accessibility barriers faced by passengers with sensory and cognitive challenges.
Th unveiling of the Universal Bus was a key moment for the forum, with Neomind presenting a concept for London built around flexible, passenger-focused spaces.
Based on a Mercedes Citaro, the design includes designated quiet, family and priority zones (sectioned into red, green and blue) improved real-time passenger information, and carefully selected materials that manage acoustics and sensory comfort.
Altro says it hopes the vehicle will serve as inspiration to operators such as Transport for London in designing more inclusive buses.
"This forum marked a pivotal moment in acknowledging the vast neurodivergent community and the critical need to design public transport that genuinely serves 'for all,' as the word 'bus' (from omnibus) truly implies," says Chris Edwards-Thorne, Marketing Manager – Global Transport at Altro. "The insights shared, particularly the direct feedback from the neurodivergent community, will guide our collective efforts to build more welcoming, less stressful, and truly accessible transport systems."
More information on the Transport Design Forum will be available in the July 2025 issue of routeone.
First Bus introducing new ETMs in Ticketer partnership renewal
First Bus introducing new ETMs in Ticketer partnership renewal
First Bus has renewed its partnership with Ticketer, investing £20 million to roll out new electronic ticket machines (ETMs) across its entire fleet.
The five-year deal continues a relationship with the smart ticketing provider which has spanned more than a decade.
The operator says the new TK300 consoles, which have already been fitted to more than 850 buses, will bring an "improved driver experience".
Among the features of the devices are voice messaging, enhanced predictions and mobile device management.
These will provide data-driven insights, seamless integration, and user-centric design, says First Bus.
Simon Mathieson, Director of Operational Excellence for First Bus, says: “We’re pleased to be extending our partnership with Ticketer for a further five years and continuing to give our people and passengers the best travel experience when using the bus.
"We’ve listened to our drivers’ needs and worked tirelessly to provide them with the best option to make this element of their job as efficient as possible.
“This renewal is testament to our strong working relationship with Ticketer, and our shared commitment to delivering innovative solutions as part of our commitment to improving services for our drivers and customers time and time again.”
Adam Toone, Chief Commercial and Operations Officer at Ticketer, adds: "Our partnership with First Bus has always been rooted in innovation, mutual trust and a shared mission to make public transport better for everyone.
"We’re thrilled to continue working closely with First Bus to push the boundaries of what’s possible in bus travel and are excited to see where our partnership will take them next."