Oxford buses get faster boarding with new ticket technology

Bus passengers can now expect faster boarding and smoother journeys thanks to new ticketing technology.

Stagecoach has introduced Ticketer TK300 machines across its services in Oxford, including the Oxford Tube, as part of a wider plan to improve driver experience and passenger convenience.

The launch follows months of preparation and collaboration between Stagecoach teams, with Oxford the first location to implement the new technology.

Martin Gibbon, managing director of Stagecoach West, said: "It's fantastic to see our new ticket machines up and running across Oxford, including on Oxford Tube.

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"This has been a huge team effort, with months of work going into preparing for the launch.

"I'm incredibly proud of our Oxford colleagues and everyone across Stagecoach who has helped us get to this point."

The new machines promise faster ticket issuing, improved QR code scanning and quicker contactless payment processing.

They also feature advanced GPS tracking and allow drivers to view and print duty summaries directly from the device.

Also, a simpler login process eliminates the need for a separate ERG card, streamlining the start of each driver's shift.

Mr Gibbon said: "What's particularly rewarding is the early feedback we're receiving from our drivers.

"They're already telling us how much quicker and easier the machines are to use, particularly when issuing tickets, scanning QR codes and processing payments.

"These are practical improvements that can make a real difference to our colleagues' working day and help our customers board more smoothly.

"We're proud to be the first location in the wider Stagecoach rollout, and we'll continue working with our colleagues to make the most of the new technology."

Feedback from drivers has been overwhelmingly positive, with one describing the machines as 'great, easy to use, quick and easy'.

Another driver said: "After trying the new machines and then going back to the old ones, it's apparent how much of an upgrade the new ones are."

The rollout responds to feedback gathered through Stagecoach's Tell Me Survey, where staff identified areas for improvement in the previous ticketing equipment.

Stagecoach will continue to gather feedback and refine the system as the machines become a regular part of daily operations.

The Oxford launch marks the first stage of a wider rollout across Stagecoach, with other regions expected to follow in the coming months.

Stagecoach is the UK's largest bus and coach operator, with a fleet of 8,300 vehicles and a workforce of 25,000.

The company has committed to making public transport more sustainable and efficient, with more than 15 per cent of its fleet now electric.