With Edinburgh Trams set to introduce improved contactless ticketing options in the future, new validators are currently being installed at stops. The current validators are used by passengers to touch-on their Ridacards, concession passes and other smartcards to validate them before travelling but in the future the new machines will enable contactless payment methods to be used without the need to purchase a paper or electronic ticket.
As well as improving the technology, the installation of the new equipment will see the number of validators increased at busy stops and improved positioning at the end of each platform to make it easier for all passengers.
The new technology needs testing before it goes live during April and will see improved contactless ticketing options introduced in the future.
Lea Harrison, Edinburgh Trams Managing Director, said: “This innovative new system will make travelling by tram even easier by offering a quicker and more convenient way to validate smartcards for travel. The introduction of this new card validating equipment will mark another major milestone for the network as we look forward to the launch of new services following the completion of the Trams to Newhaven project next year.”
The current validators remain in place and should continue to be used until the new versions are officially switched on.