Smart card to reduce queues

Smart card to reduce queues

The pilot scheme is launched in Coventry

Queues to get on buses could be a thing of the past with the introduction of a new smart card in Coventry.

Passengers can top up the card in advance, similar to mobile phone top-up cards.

The card is scanned on the bus and if there is enough credit the passenger is given a ticket.

Phil Bateman from Travel West Midlands said the system meant passengers wouldn't be held up by people who didn't have the right change to buy their ticket.

Better system

"We believe that in 2003 we should have a better system for bus passengers," he said.

"This new system is quick, efficient and very effective."

The pilot scheme will be run by Travel West Midlands in Coventry.

Mr Bateman said he hoped the card would eventually be accepted in some shops and leisure centres.