From Tolls to Transactions: The Multifaceted Future of Tolling Tags

We recently talked with Vegard Thomassen , our VP of Norway and Denmark Operations, to learn about how the tolling tag can be used in new ways. In this interview, Vegard shares his thoughts on current trends and how we are evolving our offerings to meet market needs.

When we think of tolling tags, we usually see them as a convenient way to make toll payments. But how can these tags be used for more than just tolls?

"With today’s technology, the tolling tag can actually function as a secure credit card inside the vehicle,' Vegard explains.

"Tolling tags have been used for some time now to pay for items at drive-through stores, like food and pharmacy products. This allows the driver to pay automatically with minimal effort, making the process easier for both the store and the driver. Some tag issuers are even promoting the tag almost like a credit card for mobility-related expenses," he continues.

"Here in Norway, Q-Free has developed a system for ferry tolling as well, where ferries are paid for in the same way as road tolls.'"

That sounds interesting! What future uses do you see for this technology?

"The tag opens up several services, such as paying for outdoor parking, tire storage, and even car repairs or periodic roadworthiness tests. With our new location-based tag, we will be able to offer virtual zone services, which will be much more flexible than traditional physical zones. Municipal regulations, like low emission zones and limited traffic zones, can also be managed with the new tag, Vegard shares.

That sounds great! How does the advancement of the tolling tags relate to driving behavior?

"Of course, there are many stakeholders and user journeys involved that need to work together for the advancement to happen, but the new technology allows for usage based on how people drive.", he says.

"For example, we see exciting possibilities in areas like insurance, street parking, fleet management, and tracking kilometers driven. Additionally, as we develop these technologies, we can create business models that align with the changing landscape of vehicle ownership, catering to both individual users and fleet operators as well as national governments and local municipalities. These new applications are coming up as we keep improving our technology."

In conclusion, what is the main takeaway about the future of tolling technology?

"The tolling tag has a lot of potential to change beyond traditional uses.", Vegard states.

"With the development of our new tag system, we can make the tag a complete tool that improves many aspects of mobility, making payments smooth and easy. We could imagine the tag evolving into a transaction tool for service providers rather than just a tolling transaction tool."

Do you want to know more about the opportunities that lies within our tags and technology? Reach out to us at [email protected]