Ticket vending machines have long been a familiar sight at railway stations and continue to play an important role in public transport. However, in an increasingly digital world, the relevance of these machines is being questioned. Nonetheless, Hitachi Rail believes they will evolve and continue to have an important role to play in ensuring that transport remains inclusive for all.
Shift to Digital Solutions
The use of ticket vending machines is declining due to the rise of new, more digital payment methods, such as bank cards and mobile payments via phones and smartwatches. Transport operators are increasingly offering travelers advanced apps that allow them to plan and pay for their journeys digitally. As a result, visiting a ticket machine is no longer necessary for many.
Hitachi Rail plays a key role in this digitalization by supporting new forms of payment in public transport. Drawing from its global experience, however, Hitachi Rail recognizes that alongside advanced digital solutions, traditional ticketing options must remain available to ensure public transport remains inclusive.
Hugo Laarakkers, Solution Architect at Hitachi Rail, explains: “Ultimately, we want to support all travelers, because there will always be situations in which someone cannot - or does not want to - use digital options, and simply wants to buy a ticket.”
Hitachi is working with transport companies to determine how to shape digitization and the role of current ticket machines.
Innovating the Ticket Machine
That is why Hitachi continues to innovate and improve ticket machines to serve travelers in the best possible way. These innovations include:
Personalized travel information: Ticket machines can become service points offering real-time travel advice.
Remote customer service: Integrated video functions allow travelers to receive live assistance.
Broad range of payment options: In addition to new digital payment methods, support for cash and travel card recharging will be maintained to ensure inclusiveness.
User-friendly design: Intuitive and interactive touchscreens make it easy for all travelers to use the machines.
The use of ticket vending machines is declining due to the emergence of new and more digital payment methods such as bank cards and payment by mobile phone and watches.
Sustainability and Durability
In collaboration with transport operators, Hitachi is exploring how best to shape the digital transformation while redefining the role of ticket machines. One approach is to install entirely new machines. However, extending the lifespan of existing machines in a sustainable and cost-efficient way is also a strong option.
While Hitachi is committed to innovation, resourcefulness is equally important.
Laarakkers adds: “We are focusing on sustainability as much as possible. Instead of replacing equipment outright, we are also looking at ways to reuse existing machines by renewing and digitizing their internal components. New does not always mean better".
A Future-Oriented Vision
Hitachi Rail’s approach aims to create a smoother and more integrated travel experience. By bridging the gap between traditional ticketing and modern digital solutions, Hitachi Rail continues to meet the evolving needs of travelers. This not only helps make public transport more accessible, but also more appealing to a broader audience.