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eMoney News

Global transit card system could be available by 2012
8 Oct 2010

An international transit card system which would allow passengers to travel around Europe, America and Australia could be available in two years, it has been revealed.

Earlier this week, it was reported that Transport for London (TfL) will introduce new technology across its bus and tube network from 2012 to enable users to pay for fares with a contactless-enabled credit or debit card.

According to The Telegraph, this new contactless technology could become standardised throughout the world to help simplify travel and eliminate the need for tourists to buy a regional travel card.

The development could mean that a cardholder will be able to ride across the London Underground network, the Paris Metro and New York's subway with a single card.

Kulveer Ranger, the Mayor of London's transport adviser, said: "This technology is now maturing and could enable people to pay for their travel using credit or debit cards resulting in a simpler process for the customer, and reducing commission and processing costs for TfL."

Numerous other cities are also involved in talks over creating a common payment standard including Boston, Chicago, Sydney and Manchester, according to the news provider.