Introduction
In 2016, EKTEC Corp partnered with SVBUS in Mexico City to introduce a modern, cashless fare collection system. This project was designed to streamline the commuter experience on key express routes, offering riders a secure and familiar payment method that eliminated the need for cash or reloadable cards. Over a 12-month period, EKTEC’s OPCS Transport solution provided seamless, convenient access for Mexico City’s public transit users.
Project Goals and Objectives
The primary objective of the project was to enhance the transit experience by making fare payment easy, reliable, and efficient. By integrating OPCS Transport, we aimed to:
- Reduce dependency on cash handling and card reloading.
- Offer contactless and familiar payment options.
- Improve operational efficiency on specific express routes in Mexico City.
Solution Overview
EKTEC Corp implemented OPCS Transport across select routes operated by SVBUS, specifically on elevated highways where buses had no intermediate stops. For a smooth, secure commuter experience, we enabled access through:
- Magnetic Stripe and Contact Chip Cards: Familiar, secure options for users.
- Contactless Technology: Enabling access via NFC-enabled devices, smart cards, and wearables for a faster, tap-and-go experience.
Impact and Benefits
The introduction of OPCS Transport to Mexico City’s transit system provided multiple benefits for both riders and operators:
- Enhanced Rider Experience: By eliminating the need for cash and reloadable cards, commuters experienced smoother, faster access to transit.
- Reduced Operational Complexity: Operators saw a reduction in cash handling and a streamlined fare collection process, allowing staff to focus more on service.
- Improved Transit Flow on Express Routes: With seamless entry and exit points, travel times on elevated highways were optimized, contributing to a more efficient transit system overall.
Challenges and Solutions
Implementing a new fare collection system in a busy urban environment presents unique challenges. However, by working closely with SVBUS and leveraging local insights, EKTEC Corp successfully addressed the following:
- System Familiarity: Many users were initially unfamiliar with contactless and wearable options. Targeted outreach and on-the-ground support helped promote understanding and adoption.
- Integration with Existing Infrastructure: To ensure a seamless experience, OPCS Transport was integrated into existing transit infrastructure, minimizing disruptions.
Conclusion
EKTEC Corp’s OPCS Transport system, implemented in collaboration with SVBUS in Mexico City, has proven to be a vital enhancement to public transit, transforming how commuters access and pay for transportation. By introducing reliable, cashless payment methods across Mexico City’s express routes, this project set a new standard for fare collection in urban environments.
The success of this project serves as a testament to EKTEC Corp’s commitment to creating secure, efficient, and commuter-friendly solutions in public transit systems around the world.