Wednesday, May 28, 2025
Bangkok’s public transportation system is taking a major leap forward in its evolution towards a smarter, more efficient, and commuter-friendly future. Hitachi Rail, a global leader in intelligent transport systems, has signed four pivotal contracts aimed at delivering advanced Automatic Fare Collection (AFC) technologies to key routes within the city’s rapidly growing urban rail network. These agreements mark a bold move toward digitalized ticketing and seamless interconnectivity, putting Bangkok in the spotlight as a trailblazer in next-generation urban mobility in Southeast Asia.
As part of the newly signed agreements, Hitachi Rail will work closely with CH. Karnchang Public Company Limited to deliver an advanced Automatic Fare Collection (AFC) system for Bangkok’s upcoming MRT Orange Line. Simultaneously, Hitachi Rail will team up with Bangkok Expressway and Metro Public Company Limited (BEM) to upgrade and enhance the AFC infrastructure currently in place on the MRT Blue Line and MRT Purple Line, bringing them in line with the latest digital fare technologies. The mission is clear: transform the city’s fare collection processes to deliver a streamlined, digital, and commuter-centric experience.
Reimagining Urban Commuting Through Digital Fare Collection
The heart of this multi-faceted project lies in the introduction of modern fare collection solutions that go beyond traditional ticketing. Hitachi Rail is deploying an integrated AFC system that incorporates open-loop EMV (Europay, MasterCard, and Visa) payment technologies. This solution will allow passengers to pay their fares directly using credit or debit cards—just as they would for any other everyday purchase—eliminating the need for preloaded transit cards or paper tickets.
Additionally, QR code ticketing will become a standard feature, further diversifying payment methods and offering added convenience for daily commuters and international travelers alike. By offering a flexible range of digital payment options, the new system ensures accessibility, speed, and reliability—cornerstones of a commuter-first transit model.
With the rollout of these open-loop and QR code solutions, Bangkok aligns itself with other global cities leading in smart mobility innovation, including London, Singapore, and Tokyo. These enhancements will drastically reduce queuing times, improve fare accuracy, and minimize contact during transactions—an especially significant benefit in a post-pandemic world that values hygiene and safety.
Building on a Legacy of Innovation and Trust
Hitachi Rail is no stranger to Bangkok’s transportation ecosystem. The company has been a core partner in the city’s transit infrastructure since 2004, when it introduced the first-generation AFC system on the MRT Blue Line. Over the past two decades, this partnership has grown stronger, with each new technological deployment reinforcing Hitachi Rail’s reputation as a trusted and forward-thinking technology provider.
The current upgrade represents a continuation of that legacy—combining deep institutional knowledge of Bangkok’s transit needs with global technological expertise. With each new phase of implementation, Hitachi Rail ensures not only that the infrastructure is state-of-the-art but that it is also adaptable to future mobility trends.
Seamless Integration Across MRT Networks
The MRT Orange Line, currently under development, will be one of Bangkok’s most transformative infrastructure additions. Stretching across the city from west to east, it will play a critical role in reducing congestion and providing efficient transit options across densely populated neighborhoods. With Hitachi Rail’s cutting-edge AFC system in place from day one, the line is poised to launch with best-in-class digital fare collection features.
Meanwhile, the MRT Blue Line and Purple Line—already operational and integral to the daily lives of millions—will benefit from upgraded systems that align with the Orange Line’s new infrastructure. This holistic approach guarantees interoperability and system-wide coherence. Commuters can expect a unified experience, no matter which line they ride, as the entire MRT network becomes a fully integrated smart mobility environment.
Sustainability and Urban Resilience at the Core
Beyond convenience and technology, these upgrades serve a much broader purpose: driving sustainable urban mobility. By reducing dependence on paper tickets and legacy systems, and introducing digital solutions that streamline operations and lower maintenance needs, Hitachi Rail’s AFC systems contribute to environmental sustainability and operational resilience.
Digital payment systems also provide valuable data insights for urban planners and operators. With better understanding of commuter patterns and fare utilization, authorities can plan more efficient services, optimize schedules, and ensure equitable access to transit for all segments of society.
Moreover, as Bangkok prepares to face future challenges—be they climate-related, demographic, or technological—this advanced infrastructure becomes a foundation for resilience and adaptability. It ensures that the city remains connected, even during unforeseen disruptions, thanks to the inherent reliability and scalability of digital fare collection platforms.
A Model for Other Cities in Southeast Asia
Bangkok’s latest move with Hitachi Rail sets a new standard for other cities in Southeast Asia grappling with rapid urbanization and increasing demand for reliable public transportation. As countries like Vietnam, the Philippines, and Indonesia embark on similar urban transit expansions, Bangkok’s successful integration of open-loop EMV and QR code-based systems serves as a powerful case study in what smart, inclusive mobility can look like.
The public-private synergy between Hitachi Rail, BEM, and CH. Karnchang further highlights how strategic partnerships can accelerate urban innovation while delivering measurable benefits to everyday commuters.
Looking Ahead
The future of transit in Bangkok is digital, seamless, and sustainable. With these four new contracts, Hitachi Rail reinforces its commitment to transforming the city’s mobility landscape and setting new benchmarks for AFC systems worldwide.
By embracing cutting-edge technology while keeping commuters’ convenience at the forefront, Bangkok positions itself not just as a growing megacity but as a forward-thinking urban mobility leader. From the upcoming Orange Line to the upgraded Blue and Purple lines, millions of residents and visitors alike will experience the tangible benefits of innovation as Bangkok moves steadily toward becoming one of the world’s most connected and commuter-friendly cities.
Jean-Marc Reynaud, VP Hitachi Rail RCS, said: “The contracts signed with CH. Karnchang and BEM related to Orange Line and the digital, interoperable enhancement across Purple, Blue Line and Orange Line demonstrate our commitment to delivering the most advanced solutions and services locally in Thailand. This paves the way for full interoperability and offering of social benefits to all passengers in Bangkok. We are honored by the continued trust that BEM places in Hitachi Rail and welcome the alignment of our respective vision to deliver seamless and cost efficient transport solutions for the public.”
