Train passengers in the East Midlands will soon have the opportunity to test a new technology that allows them to tap in and out of journeys, with fare calculations determined at the end of the day. Starting Monday, trials of digital rail tickets utilizing GPS tracking are set to begin as part of the UK government’s initiative to simplify the rail fare system.
Passengers will use a mobile app to check in for their journeys, which will be monitored through satellite technology. At the conclusion of the day, the app will automatically charge users the lowest available fare and provide a barcode for ticket inspections or access through barriers. This modern approach aims to replace traditional paper tickets and QR code mobile tickets that require advance purchase. The goal is to enable more spontaneous travel without the need for prior booking.
The technology has been successfully tested in countries such as Switzerland, Denmark, and Scotland, and will initially be piloted on East Midlands Railway services among routes in Leicester, Derby, and Nottingham. The trials are expected to expand to Northern Trains in Yorkshire by the end of the month, with up to 4,000 passengers anticipated to take part.
The Department for Transport (DfT) emphasizes that this initiative reflects its commitment to enhancing the passenger experience through innovative technology. Rail Minister Peter Hendy noted the importance of modernizing the ticketing system to improve convenience and flexibility for passengers.
While there is recognition of the necessity for reform in ticketing, previous attempts by the government to address the complexity of England’s fare system have encountered resistance. Labour has proposed a “best price guarantee” as part of its strategy for a nationalized Great British Railways, which aims to be operational by 2027.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/business/2025/sep/01/tap-in-tap-out-rail-ticket-trial-to-streamline-fares-using-gps-tracking