HaCon to power next generation app for Arriva UK Bus

Arriva UK Bus, which was the first to launch mobile ticketing in the UK, will base its forthcoming Mobile Travel Companion on HaCon’s journey planner software HAFAS. The new mobile app for iPhones and Android-powered smartphones will provide customers with much greater functionality than the current application. In addition, the vehicle management system HAFAS Smart VMS will form the basis for comprehensive up to the minute passenger information.

HAFAS Smart VMS gathers GPS-based real-time data in the buses which can be fed  to all output channels for passenger information systems, such as the new Arriva Bus app. This allows increased communication with customers regarding the status of services. HaCon’s software is a cost-efficient, web-based alternative to full-range vehicle management systems and was recently rewarded by the VDV (Association of German Transport Companies) for its innovative power.

Mike Woodhouse, marketing manager for Arriva UK Bus, said: “Arriva has been at the forefront of the bus industry in the UK in mobile technology for a number of years and with HaCon’s system we will be able to maintain our position as innovators,  while delivering real benefits to our customers. HaCon has been working with Arriva’s parent company Deutsche Bahn in Germany for years and this has allowed us to see the benefits of the system in a real world environment. With HaCon’s experience in delivering success within the industry, we know that our new Mobile Travel Companion will be a hit with customers.”

Stephan Sünderkamp, Head of Division HAFAS Internet at HaCon, said: “We are excited to equip more than 4,000 vehicles of the Arriva UK Bus fleet with HAFAS Smart VMS, which will support their new journey planner app for iPhones launched today. The Arriva mobilisation follows HaCon installation programmes for DB Regio Bus in Germany, Denmark’s Rejseplanen and several other European transport companies.”