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 Travel Solutions delivers British Grand Prix shuttle service
First Travel Solutions delivers British Grand Prix shuttle service
First Travel Solutions and partner operators successfully conveyed over 83,000 motorsport fans by shuttle service at the 2025 British Grand Prix across the weekend of 4, 5 and 6 June.
That provision took attendees to and from the circuit and Bicester Heritage, Buckingham, Hinton Airfield, Milton Keynes, Towcester, and Turweston Airfield. Vehicles, drivers and support and supervisory staff from many First Bus subsidiaries were used, but other operators large and small from outside the group also provided staff and vehicle resource.
During the three-day event, buses and staff contended with changing weather, logistical complexity, last-minute alterations and a record-breaking attendance to deploy a high-frequency service.
That came with what the service provider says were short wait times and real-time event control to allow adjustments in response to weather and crowd surges.
No incidents were reported across the weekend, which First Travel Solutions adds reflects its focus on safety, punctuality and customer satisfaction. Praise has come from clients for the quality of the operation, it notes.
Observes Managing Director Andy Scholey: “This was one of the most demanding events we have ever managed – but also one of the most rewarding. Hearing directly from customers on the ground was incredibly gratifying.
“Many commented that they had never seen the shuttles run so smoothly. One couple even told us that the Milton Keynes shuttle service was the highlight of their day.
“The scale of the operation, combined with unpredictable weather and live operational challenges, demanded extraordinary teamwork and agility. I am incredibly proud of how the team rose to the occasion and delivered such a seamless experience for passengers.”