Public transport that attracts passengers is all about a positive customer experience. In the age of digitalization, passengers’ requirements have changed dramatically. They expect smart mobility offerings and accessible real-time information. As an ambitious public transport provider, the Société de transport de Montréal (STM) responded to these demands by setting up a sophisticated operations control and integrated real-time passenger information system. The project called iBUS is a direct initiative in Montreal’s mission to become a Smart City.
Project at a glance
500
km² operating area
1950
vehicles
415
million passengers per year
219
daytime service lines
23
nighttime service lines
The task
To meet the expectations of today’s passengers, Société de transport de Montréal (STM), the provider of public transport services for Montreal, decided for the implementation of an ITS project called iBUS. The project aims to deliver updated passenger information at all times. Adjustments to the schedule, caused for example by service disruptions, become public in real time to allow riders to make the best decision while en route. Of course, reliable information is also available before the trip. Further important goals of STM were to improve punctuality and regularity of the bus service, as well as provide greater safety aboard buses.
The solution
Automated route data detection software will deliver more accurate stop positions, while a database-supported device management system will improve data supply and simplify the monitoring of operational devices. Mass data is transferred by WLAN. A digital P25 radio system set up in three different locations is used for voice radio. The subcontractor Harris Canada Systems Inc. supplies the radio systems for INIT, the general contractor on this project. The INIT Voice-over-Cellular solution (VoIP via mobil phone network) is implemented for fallback scenarios.
Scope of the project
- 1,900 vehicles
- 2 control centers
- 27 workstations
- 90 passenger information displays
- Intermodal Transport Control System
- Automatic Passenger Counting system
- Incident management
- Workflow management
- 1 central hub for schedule and RTPI information
- Real-time Passenger Information (RTPI) via stopdisplay, internet, apps and on-board the buses
The conclusion
With the iBUS project, STM has improved their operational efficiency and service quality considerably. Dispatchers receive all information to keep the service on time and running smoothly. Drivers are supported by the on-board computer that provides navigation assistance. And passengers are always in the know about the next bus, delays and travel alternatives – at home, on the road, at the stop and on-board the buses. Overall, all these improvements add up to higher quality service offerings.
Showcase Montreal
Do you want further information on our project in Montreal? Read more in our showcase flyer.