Persontrafik 2024 recap: here’s why our fare validators stole the show
20 November 2024,
A big thank you to everyone who stopped by our stand at Persontrafik 2024! It was a pleasure meeting lots of industry colleagues, public transport authorities and partners who are as passionate as we are about the future of mobility. Our team had a great time sharing insights, discussing trends, and showcasing our latest fare collection solutions.
Hands down, the stars of our show were our fare validators! While it was their good looks that initially captured attention, attendees were pleased to find they offer both style and substance.
5 ways our fare collection devices impressed:
1. Ease of Integration
Many transport authorities (PTAs) expressed a need for devices that can integrate easily with other systems using simple APIs and SDKs. Our fare validators are designed to be part of a modular fare collection ecosystem. While they connect beautifully within Vix’s ticketing universe (account based ticketing, open-loop and mobile ticketing solutions), they also plug-and-play with third-party systems. Their flexibility and integration potential was a big plus for PTAs transitioning towards interoperable, multimodal transit networks.
2. Durability and Device Quality
The importance of long-lasting infrastructure in public transit was top of mind for PTAs and operators (PTOs). Conversations underscored a strong demand for robust devices that withstand the wear and tear of being located in high-traffic, sometimes outdoor environments. Vix’s fare validators, including the ultra-resilient ‘Rugged’ model for on-platform use, meet high standards of impact resistance. The Rugged’s IK10-rating signifies it can survive a 10 joule impact, equivalent to a 10kg hammer blow with a swing distance of 40cm.
3. Group and Family Travel Options
Multi-validation capabilities, which allow for group travel with a single tap, were of particular interest to attendees. As public transportation aims to be inclusive and convenient for all, this feature takes into account the needs of families and people travelling as a group. Whether the ‘group lead’ is using a contactless bank card or a transit smart card, they can tap once and then select the number of passengers travelling. Based on information received by the fare validator, the ticketing back office calculates the fare and collects funds, or deducts balance, accordingly.
4. Local and Global Standards Compliance
Regional fare collection standards, such as Sweden’s BoB (Biljett och Betal), were a frequent discussion point. We were pleased to share with attendees that every component of our fare collection systems meets local and global standards for data and payment protection. It was an opportunity for us to communicate our commitment to ensuring the strength and stability of systems. As the global leader in intelligent transportation systems, automated fare collection, and transit analytics, we understand what mobility networks need to run smoothly.
5. Multi-tasking Validation and Inspection
Multi-tasking and portable, our small-but-mighty fare validation device turned some heads! The compact, hand-held unit offers 3-in-1 capabilities, handling fare validation, payment and inspection. It helps staff on-board vehicles and on-platform to take fare payment and check passengers are travelling with a valid ‘travel token’. They can perform tasks quickly and efficiently without the need for multiple different devices.
Observations on Industry Priorities
Attendees at Persontrafik 2024 showed strong interest in solutions that support resilience, compliance and streamlined integration. As mobility systems evolve, these elements reflect broader industry goals to enhance reliability and inclusivity, and provide the best travel experience for passengers.
Persontrafik 2024 gave us a fantastic opportunity to exchange ideas with public transport leaders and industry experts, all focused on the future of mobility. It’s clear there’s a strong drive to make systems more resilient, user-friendly, and connected. We’re excited to keep these conversations going and to support public transit’s evolution with technology that brings lasting value.
🔗 Explore more highlights from Persontrafik 2024 on our landing page