- Vix Technology introduces UK’s first ferry automated smart gates
- The system for Wightlink accepts multiple ticket types, including a combined rail and ferry e-ticket
- 100,000 passengers have used the gates since installation in May
Port Operator Mike Parsons, Wightlink, with a passenger at the automated gates in situ.
September 9, Cambridge, UK: Vix, a leader in innovative transport solutions, announces the recent installation of state-of-the-art, automated ticket gates on Wightlink‘s FastCat foot passenger route between Portsmouth Harbour and Ryde Pier Head. This investment is aimed at making journeys easier and more convenient for foot passengers, especially those with a combined rail and FastCat e-ticket.
Since the new smart gates were switched on in May, over 100,000 passengers have used them, 11,000 of these were using barcode e-tickets. The system recognizes multiple ticket types, including rail tickets with barcodes or QR codes, Wightlink barcode tickets, passes, and tickets on smartphones. They are also equipped to accept future ticket types as systems evolve.
A wider view of the automated gates
Wightlink Director of IT and Transformations, Stuart James, says: “We are always looking at how to improve our customers’ journey through our ports and these gates make it easier for people with a combined rail and FastCat e-ticket.
“With Vix, we designed a bespoke solution, so the rail and ferry ticketing systems would work together. To ensure our customers get the full benefit of this simpler experience, we trained all colleagues who are based at our ports in their operation and invested in customer communications.”
Paul Windsor, Sales Manager at Vix Technology, added: “We’re really proud of our partnership with Wightlink. Together, we’ve introduced the UK’s first ferry digital gates, making it easier and more convenient for passengers to travel with multiple payment options.”
With this groundbreaking installation, Vix and Wightlink are leading the way in modernising public transport. The new automated gates represent a significant step in integrating user-friendly, multimodal solutions that improve passenger journeys.
About Vix Technology
Vix Technology is the global leader in intelligent transportation systems, automated fare collection, and transit analytics. With customers in 200 cities around the world, Vix embraces the complexities of modern public transit to create best-in-class solutions for transit agencies and operators. Vix is passionate about connecting people and communities, combining an open, collaborative mindset with cutting-edge technology to make public transport more accessible and more cost effective for all.
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