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eMoney News

Contactless smart card system 'to be rolled out in the midlands'
15 Feb 2010

A contactless smart card system, which will allow public transport users to pay for their travel using swipe and go technology, is set to be rolled out in the midlands over the next three to four months, it has been reported. 

Train operator Go-Ahead will be using the transit card, known as The Key, in the hope of improving the travel experience for passengers using the service. 

Group Technology Director Dave Lynch told Computing.co.uk that the scheme will be the first contactless smart card system in the UK where people will be able to purchase their rail tickets online using the eMoney device.

"The biggest advantage [of the scheme] is the reduction in time spent in queues for passengers, meaning a much easier travel experience," he said.

Following the roll-out on London Midland train services, the transit card system is hoped to be implemented on the Southern Railways network, Go North East Buses and the Oxford Bus Company. 

Residents of Bolton, Greater Manchester are currently able to pay for their journeys on Arriva buses in the town thanks to contactless smart cards from sQuid.