An advanced real-time electronic fixed-route system is set to revolutionise UK public transport by improving service levels and reducing operating costs. Recently introduced from the US by mobile computing specialist, Mobexx, the Google Map based and paperless Mentor Transit ITS solution enables bus operators to capture and use live data to create accurate schedules, optimise routes and monitor fleet activities, as well as provide real-time updates to customers.
The visual intelligent transport system reduces running costs by allowing bus companies to make better use of available buses and drivers, improve fuel efficiency and deliver a real-world view of bus fleet performance to managers and despatchers. With the click of a button, the fleet management team can see bus status and location information, transfer work to other drivers, and manage driver schedules. In addition, the system provides drivers with real-time schedule and route adherence updates, alerting them when arriving early or late to a bus stop.
The system uses innovative all-in-one Ranger in-vehicle computers fitted within the cabs of each bus to provide an automatic live link between drivers and the despatch office. The computers combine satellite tracking, two-way communications and vehicle telematics data collection. The computers also incorporate magnetic stripe and smart card readers for point-of-sale transactions so there is no need for separate fare collection systems. The devices can be used a wide range of peripherals, such as printers, RFID card readers as well as provide a useful computer interface for vehicle inspection/maintenance, odometer monitoring and driver payroll data collection.
"Mentor Transit ITS is a cost-effective solution for bus operators who want to simply and easily manage their fleets and service levels. The system can be fully customised to suit any business requirements and integrates with existing back office systems or we can provide a user-friendly package for those looking to install new or upgrade existing transport software. The Ranger in-vehicle computer is an elegant solution to several separate pieces of hardware and puts everything at the driver's fingertips - so no need for separate radio, systems, trackers, card readers, etc. It has proven successful with many US bus operators, including private and regional transport authorities and now UK businesses are set to benefit also," says Mark Dale-Lace, Director, Mobexx.