England to experiment with GPS-based, pay-per-journey train tickets for the first time

In an effort to modernise the rail industry and enhance passenger experience, the UK government is set to trial a location-tracking digital ticketing system from September 1, 2022. This innovative system, which aims to save passengers time and money, will first be introduced on East Midlands Railway services between Leicester, Derby, and Nottingham.

The trial, which focuses on improving passenger experience and modernising fares and ticketing, will be expanded to include Northern Rail services between Harrogate, Leeds, Sheffield, Doncaster, and Barnsley from the end of September. This expansion will cover a significant portion of the rail network in Yorkshire.

Rail minister Lord Peter Hendy believes that the current ticketing system is outdated and in need of a 21st-century upgrade. He expressed his confidence that the new system will make buying tickets more convenient, accessible, and flexible for passengers.

The location-tracking digital ticketing system uses an app on passengers' phones to check in and out of rail journeys. Passengers will be automatically charged at the end of the day based on their journeys. To validate their tickets, they will need to scan a unique bar code which appears on the app when passing through ticket barriers.

The new technology is designed to replace the need for paper tickets and mobile tickets which use a QR code. The app uses global positioning system (GPS) to track journeys, ensuring accurate charging and a seamless experience for passengers.

It's worth noting that this trial marks the first time such a system will be tested in England. The technology is already being used in other parts of the world, with successful trials taking place in Switzerland, Denmark, and Scotland.

Oli Cox, head of commercial strategy and business planning at East Midlands Railway, mentioned that over 500 people have already registered interest in the trial. Up to 4,000 people can participate in the trials by signing up on train operators' websites.

Ministers hope that this trial will be a significant step towards a more modern and efficient rail system in England. The trials are part of a broader effort to improve the rail service and provide a better experience for passengers.