**Virginia**: The Williamsburg Area Transit Authority teams up with Masabi, Equans, and the Transit app for seamless fare payments, while Daimler introduces remote spare part production. New Flyer secures a bus contract with WMATA, and March Networks celebrates 25 years of innovation in video analytics.
In a recent initiative aimed at enhancing the passenger experience, the Williamsburg Area Transit Authority (WATA) in Virginia has partnered with technology companies Masabi, Equans, and the Transit app to enable fare payments via the Transit app. This collaboration allows riders to purchase tickets seamlessly, combining fare payment with trip planning, real-time tracking, crowding information, and multimodal connections.
The integration leverages Masabi’s Justride Onboard Validators, which allow passengers to simply scan an activated ticket upon boarding. This modernisation is part of a broader agency initiative that includes Equans’ NAVINEO Computer Aided Dispatch/Automatic Vehicle Location system, providing real-time dispatch functionalities for information regarding detours or trip cancellations, alongside ADA-compliant announcements through an Automatic Voice Annunciation system.
In other developments within the public transit sector, Daimler Truck and Daimler Buses have established a partnership with 3D Systems to revolutionise spare part production. This innovative solution will facilitate remote spare part printing, enabling Daimler Buses to supply its certified additive manufacturing partners with the means to produce key components locally. The collaboration aims to enhance service capabilities while ensuring the protection of intellectual property and reducing vehicle downtime by up to 75% through quicker access to maintenance parts.
Additionally, New Flyer of America Inc., a subsidiary of NFI Group Inc., has secured a significant contract with the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) to supply up to 500 buses, which include both zero-emission and hybrid models. The contract consists of a firm order for 75 Xcelsior hybrid-electric 40-foot buses and 25 Xcelsior CHARGE NG 35-foot battery-electric buses, with further options for an additional 400 units. Chris Stoddart, president of North American Bus and Coach at NFI, expressed confidence in the long-lasting partnership with Metro, emphasising the importance of collaborating on healthy contracting measures and flexible pricing to mitigate supply chain uncertainties.
Lastly, March Networks is commemorating its 25th anniversary, marking two decades since its inception in 2000. Recognised as a trusted partner for numerous organisations across various sectors, including retail, banking, and transportation, March Networks has consistently advanced technology and video analytics. The company continues to lead in the transition of enterprise video to the cloud, integrating Generative AI technology into its latest products. To celebrate this milestone, March Networks has produced a special 25th-anniversary video highlighting its history and future vision, available for viewing on its newly refreshed website.
Source: Noah Wire Services
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