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Unicard Secures Partial Certification For Itso 2.1.5 Transport Solutions

railway
Apr 16, 2025
Article Source LogoRailway Technology
Railway Technology

Unicard has received partial certification for its PSEngine PersoPOST software in accordance with the newly released ITSO Specification version 2.1.5.

This achievement is said to position Unicard as the first supplier to attain this certification under the new specifications.

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This certification follows the UK Department for Transport’s (DfT) approval in March for the latest ITSO Specification, which aims to enhance integrated smart ticketing across public transport systems.

The company completed the necessary testing for its PSEngine PersoPOST software, meeting all requirements set forth by ITSO.

The ITSO Specification version 2.1.5 introduces new features, including media designed for in-wallet digital ticketing.

This update aligns with current industry trends and government efforts to digitise transport ticketing, providing passengers with options for both digital and physical tickets.

In response to this certification, Unicard is now working on updating its other ITSO products to ensure they meet the requirements for phase two of version 2.1.5.

Unicard CTO Mike Sussman said: “ITSO solutions have been an integral part of Unicard’s products since we first certified with ITSO in 2010. We’re delighted to be the first supplier to certify partially for ITSO 2.1.5.

“This demonstrates our commitment to assuring continued ITSO compliance for all our customers.”

The approval of version 2.1.5 marks a significant update, occurring 15 years after the previous version 2.1.4 was released.

In June 2024, ITSO circulated a draft version of 2.1.5 for feedback from its members, including Unicard, leading to refinements based on their input.

ITSO CEO Steve Holden said: “Collectively we worked hard to realise version 2.1.5 and it is great to see Unicard with the first of many updates across the supply chain.

“Unicard has worked hard to bring this development forward, and we look forward to working with Unicard and all our supplier members in the coming years to realise 2.1.5 across the UK.”

In June 2024, Unicard secured a contract with Strathclyde Partnership for Transport (SPT) to implement its systems for rail services in Glasgow and western Scotland.

The ITSO-based solution will digitise SPT’s ZoneCard system, which is utilised across ScotRail services, the Glasgow Subway, and most regional bus routes.

This upgrade will enable customers to purchase ZoneCard tickets online or simply “tap in” during their travels.

Nominations are now open for the prestigious Railway Technology Excellence Awards - one of the industry's most recognised programmes celebrating innovation, leadership, and impact. This is your chance to showcase your achievements, highlight industry advancements, and gain global recognition. Don't miss the opportunity to be honoured among the best - submit your nomination today!

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Watch Metro Workers Reveal The Secrets Of The New Trains!
Rail Technology Magazine
Watch Metro Workers Reveal The Secrets Of The New Trains!The films, which are being screened on the Tyne and Wear Metro’s social media channels, show members of the Metro fleet project team explaining the many modern features on board the new trains – which are currently in the process of entering customer service. Film is the ideal medium to help customer to familiarise themselves with the new Stadler trains, which differ vastly from the current fleet.  Workers in key project roles appear in the campaign to add authenticity and tap into their expert knowledge. They take the viewer on a walk through the Metro carriage, showcasing technology and customer benefits.  This includes a focus on safety systems, the linear seating layout, USB charging points, climate control, CCTV, accessibility, the automatic sliding steps, digital display screens, handrails and grab poles, the doors, the coloured lights around each set of doors, art work, the public address system and emergency alarm system, customer intercom, priority seating, and the fleet testing process.  The films were shot in an informal and easy-to-understand way. They can be viewed on the Tyne and Wear Metro’s official Instagram, Tik Tok and Facebook channels. They will also be available to view on the Nexus and Tyne and Wear Metro YouTube channels.  Michael Richardson, Head of Fleet and Depot Replacement at Nexus, said: “This series of short films will really help our customers get to know their new Metro trains as the entry into service continues to make progress.  “This is a really exciting step forward for us and video is a great medium to showcase the new Metro fleet, which will be transformative for comfort, quality and reliability.  “Members of our own project team appear on camera, sharing their expert knowledge of the Stadler trains, and explaining more about the many modern new features on board.  “All of this bitesize content will be appearing on our social media channels to help customers familiarise themselves with the trains, which boast the latest technology and are vastly different from the current Metro fleet.  “I hope our customers enjoy watching the reels, which are going to appear on Metro’s Instagram, TikTok and Facebook channels, as well as the Metro and Nexus YouTube pages. Don’t forget to like and share.”  The new Metro fleet began entering customer service in December last year.  Stadler, the Swiss train manufacturer, is building 46 new Metro trains for Nexus.  The introduction of the new Metro trains will happen in phases in what is the biggest project in Metro’s history.  Half of the 46 new trains which are on order from Stadler are scheduled to be in service by the end of 2025.  We aim to have all 46 new trains running in customer service over the next two years.  Image and video credit: Nexus Share this article
railway
14 April 2025
Better Bike Facilities Are Coming To Northern Railway Stations
Rail Business Daily
Better Bike Facilities Are Coming To Northern Railway StationsNorthern is introducing changes to bicycle storage facilities at several stations across its network. The move will see older and redundant provisions replaced with new alternatives that include free bike racks, short-term storage lockers and long-term rental units. It follows a review by the train operator of bicycle storage at its stations. The new measures are being introduced at seven locations on the network, including: · Carnforth in Lancashire. · Cheadle Hulme, Hazel Grove, Lostock Parkway and Romiley in Greater Manchester. · Guiseley and Kirkstall Forge in West Yorkshire. Alex Hornby, Commercial and Customer Director at Northern, said: “This is great news for our customers that ‘bike it’ to the station at these locations. “We know that excellent facilities are important for customers who want to pedal and park, whether they’re using their bikes for fitness, convenience or simply for their own enjoyment – and of course, we’re keen to promote cycling to our stations, which in turn keeps cars off the roads. “The fact there is a choice of free bike racks, short term lockers for hire and long-term rental units means bicycle users can pick the option that works for them.” In 2024, Northern published a list of some of the best cycle routes from its stations across the North of England, and the operator has recently partnered with komoot to promote scenic cycling and walking trails across Northumberland and the Peak District.
railway
14 April 2025
Cpkc Sells Panama Canal Railway Company
Railway Pro
Cpkc Sells Panama Canal Railway CompanyCanadian Pacific Kansas City Limited (CPKC) has announced the sale of the Panama Canal Railway Company (PCRC) to APM Terminals, a global terminal operator and independent division of A.P. Moller – Maersk. PCRC, which offers freight and passenger services along the Panama Canal, has operated as a 50/50 joint venture between CPKC subsidiary Kansas City Southern and Lanco Group/Mi-Jack since its inception in 1998. In 2024, the company reported revenue of USD 77 million and EBITDA of USD 36 million. “We are pleased to have completed this transaction with APM Terminals, a part of A.P. Moller – Maersk, a key strategic partner of CPKC’s and major customer of the Panama Canal Railway Company,” said Keith Creel, CPKC President and Chief Executive Officer. “The sale of this non-core asset creates value for our shareholders and reflects our commitment to optimise our assets as we focus on growing our core North American rail business through our unrivalled three-nation network connecting Canada, the United States and Mexico.” Mike Lanigan, Chief Executive Officer of Lanco Group/Mi-Jack, added: “Lanco is very proud to have worked with CPKC and A.P. Moller – Maersk over the past several years. Keith Creel and his group have been a pleasure to work with and I wish to congratulate APM Terminals on the purchase of the Panama Canal Railway. As we all know, Panama is a major transportation hub, and I am quite confident the container business will continue to grow under the leadership of APM Terminals.” “PCRC represents an attractive infrastructure investment in the region aligned to our core services of intermodal container movement,” said Keith Svendsen, CEO of APM Terminals. “The company is highly regarded for its operational excellence and will provide a significant opportunity for us to offer a broader range of services to the global shipping customers we serve.” PCRC was established following the award of a concession by the Republic of Panama to reconstruct and operate the Panama Canal Railway – a 47-mile route that runs adjacent to the Panama Canal, linking the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. The railway forms a key part of Panama’s logistics infrastructure. APM Terminals has over 50 years of experience in developing and managing advanced container terminals worldwide. The company currently operates in 60 strategic locations across 33 countries and employs approximately 33,000 people. In the Americas Region, APM Terminals operates 14 terminals in eight countries.
railway
14 April 2025
Scotland’S Railway Marks One-Year Anniversary Of Charity Partnership
Rail Business Daily
Scotland’S Railway Marks One-Year Anniversary Of Charity PartnershipScotland’s Railway says it is celebrating an “incredible” first year of fundraising, awareness-building, and community support for Scotland’s older people. Age Scotland has been the official charity partner of ScotRail and Network Rail Scotland since April 2024. Over the past 12 months, the partnership has contributed almost £332,000 in support through fundraising and in-kind contributions to help tackle loneliness and promote the importance of older people feeling valued and included in Scottish society. Through a variety of initiatives, rail customers and colleagues have played a vital role in supporting Age Scotland’s mission to inspire, involve, and empower older people in Scotland. Fundraising activities have included bucket collections at stations, customer donations through Delay Repay contributions, and exciting staff-led fundraising events such as bake sales, craft fairs, musical performances, a 13 mile walk from Clydebank station to Balloch station, auctions, and raffles. Scotland’s Railway employees have stepped up to the challenge, participating in fundraising and awareness events, such as abseiling challenges at the Forth Bridge and the Falkirk Wheel, zip-lining across the Clyde and the Supernova 5k at the Kelpies. The charity has also benefited from in-kind support, including complimentary travel for Age Scotland employees as they work across the country to support older people, and the charity featuring in a significant brand awareness campaign delivered by Scotland’s Railway. From TV adverts and posters on trains and at stations to Age Scotland branding on trains and a Christmas marketing campaign, the partnership has helped Age Scotland reach millions across Scotland, amplifying its vital work. Throughout 2025, ScotRail and Network Rail will continue to support Age Scotland with an exciting calendar of fundraising events, including Kiltwalks, abseiling the Kelpies, the Edinburgh marathon, 5k runs, and fire walks. Scotland’s Railway staff are also set to volunteer as Friendship Callers for Age Scotland, providing invaluable support and companionship to lonely older people. David Ross, ScotRail Communications Director, said: “We are incredibly proud of everything we have achieved in partnership with Age Scotland over the past year. “Thanks to the generosity of our customers and the dedication of our staff, we have been able to help make a difference in the lives of older people across Scotland. “We look forward to continuing our work together and making an even greater impact in the years ahead.” Innis Keith, Network Rail Health, Safety, and Environment Director, said: “This is a deeply meaningful partnership that has helped us better connect with the communities we serve. “A little effort goes a long way, and it’s inspiring to see how small actions add up to make a big difference. “It’s in all our interests to ensure life as we get older is fulfilling and rewarding, and we look forward to continuing supporting this in the year ahead.” Katherine Crawford, Age Scotland Chief Executive, said: “The support from Scotland’s Railway has been fantastic and we are incredibly grateful to staff and customers for their wonderful fundraising efforts, volunteering to tackle loneliness with friendship calls, and sharing information about how our services can help. “This positive partnership is having an impact and raising fantastic awareness of how we can support older people in Scotland. We’re really looking forward to what else we can achieve together.”
railway
14 April 2025
In Pictures: Sydney Metro Confirms Designs For Six New Stations
Railway News
In Pictures: Sydney Metro Confirms Designs For Six New StationsWork to construct six new stations for the Sydney Metro – Western Sydney Airport line is progressing, with final designs for each station now confirmed. The designs aim to reflect the natural and cultural characteristics of the Cumberland Plain while supporting a strong sense of place and community connection across Western Sydney. The design process was led by Hassell in collaboration with First Nations design studio Djinjama. Engagement with Knowledge Holders of Country also played a central role, ensuring cultural perspectives were embedded in the architectural outcomes. Each of the six stations will feature materials, colours and textures inspired by the surrounding landscape. These design elements will be visible across key station areas, including public plazas, walkways and building interiors. Community and stakeholder input shaped the final designs, following a public consultation process held earlier in the project. The feedback received informed adjustments to design features to ensure the stations respond to local priorities and cultural values. The new stations are part of the broader Sydney Metro – Western Sydney Airport project, which is intended to provide efficient and accessible transport connections for residents, workers and visitors to the region. The Australian and NSW governments anticipate that the line will be operational in time for the opening of the new Western Sydney International Airport.
railway
14 April 2025
Metro Workers Star On Film To Showcase The New Trains
Rail Business Daily
Metro Workers Star On Film To Showcase The New TrainsMetro workers are starring in a series of short films to help customers get to know the new Metro trains. The films, which are being screened on the Tyne and Wear Metro’s social media channels, show members of the Metro fleet project team explaining the many modern features on board the new trains – which are currently in the process of entering customer service. Nexus, the public body which runs Metro, said film was the ideal medium to help customer to familiarise themselves with the new Stadler trains, which differ vastly from the current fleet. Workers in key project roles appear in the campaign to add authenticity and tap into their expert knowledge. They take the viewer on a walk through the Metro carriage, showcasing technology and customer benefits. This includes a focus on safety systems, the linear seating layout, USB charging points, climate control, CCTV, accessibility, the automatic sliding steps, digital display screens, handrails and grab poles, the doors, the coloured lights around each set of doors, art work, the public address system and emergency alarm system, customer intercom, priority seating, and the fleet testing process. The films were shot in an informal and easy-to-understand way. They can be viewed on the Tyne and Wear Metro’s official Instagram, Tik Tok and Facebook channels. They will also be available to view on the Nexus and Tyne and Wear Metro YouTube channels. Michael Richardson, Head of Fleet and Depot Replacement at Nexus, said: “This series of short films will really help our customers get to know their new Metro trains as the entry into service continues to make progress. “This is a really exciting step forward for us and video is a great medium to showcase the new Metro fleet, which will be transformative for comfort, quality and reliability. “Members of our own project team appear on camera, sharing their expert knowledge of the Stadler trains, and explaining more about the many modern new features on board. “All of this bitesize content will be appearing on our social media channels to help customers familiarise themselves with the trains, which boast the latest technology and are vastly different from the current Metro fleet. “I hope our customers enjoy watching the reels, which are going to appear on Metro’s Instagram, TikTok and Facebook channels, as well as the Metro and Nexus YouTube pages. Don’t forget to like and share.” The new Metro fleet began entering customer service in December last year. Stadler, the Swiss train manufacturer, is building 46 new Metro trains for Nexus. The introduction of the new Metro trains will happen in phases in what is the biggest project in Metro’s history.  Half of the 46 new trains which are on order from Stadler are scheduled to be in service by the end of 2025.  Nexus aims to have all 46 new trains running in customer service over the next two years.
railway
11 April 2025
Chiltern Railways Launches Community Investment Fund For 2025/26
Rail Business Daily
Chiltern Railways Launches Community Investment Fund For 2025/26Rail operator Chiltern Railways has announced the launch of its Community Investment Fund (CIF) for 2025/26, offering grants to support projects that deliver meaningful social, economic and environmental benefits to communities across its network. Applications for the fund are now open, closing on 05 May 2025. Grants ranging from £5,000 to £20,000 are available, with the potential for match funding up to a total project value of £40,000.   The CIF is designed to deliver initiatives that improve station environments for customers, encourage sustainable and accessible travel, and strengthen community relationships. Eligible applicants include local charities, Community Interest Companies, Business Improvement Districts, Community Rail Partnerships and other not-for-profit groups.  This builds on the successful delivery of 11 projects in 2024/25, including Chiltern Rangers and Buckinghamshire New University delivering gardening and artwork projects at High Wycombe Station, the creation of the Marylebone on Display exhibition promoting local charities and businesses around London Marylebone and Midlands-based charity Jericho providing rail confidence visits to survivors of modern slavery and people trafficking across the West Midlands.  Zach Bailey, Regional Growth Manager at Chiltern Railways, said: “I am excited to announce that applications are now open for our 2025/26 Community Investment Fund, building on Chiltern’s track record of delivering social value projects in our communities. “We were delighted by the quality of last year’s projects, from working with community partners to deliver creative artwork installations at Banbury, Great Missenden and Oxford Parkway stations and helping to build rail confidence amongst school children and those impacted by domestic abuse and modern slavery, among other really important causes along our route. “We look forward to receiving applications from a diverse range of not-for-profit charities, community groups and organisations over the next month.”  For more information and to apply, visit here.
railway
11 April 2025
Railway Pact For ƁódĆș Signed
Railway Pro
Railway Pact For ƁódĆș SignedA Railway Pact for the ƁódĆș Voivodeship has been signed by Poland’s Minister of Infrastructure, Dariusz Klimczak, the CEO of PKP Polskie Linie Kolejowe (PLK), Piotr Wyborski, and the Marshal of the ƁódĆș Voivodeship, Joanna Skrzydlewska. The agreement focuses on enhancing cooperation in the planning and construction of new railway lines that will connect BeƂchatĂłw with ƁódĆș, PiotrkĂłw Trybunalski with TomaszĂłw Mazowiecki, and WieluƄ with both Chorzew Siemkowice and BeƂchatĂłw. The Railway Pact for ƁódĆș also includes the modernisation and revitalisation of existing infrastructure to improve rail connectivity—particularly between Zgierz and Kutno, ƁódĆș and Opoczno, and Skierniewice. “The expansion of the railway network in the ƁódĆș Voivodeship is a key element of our strategy to increase the efficiency of both passenger and freight transport. Investments such as the construction of new routes will help create a new network of connections across the region and the country. Together, we will carry out analyses to improve capacity on key lines, contributing to the continued dynamic development of rail infrastructure,” said Marcin Mochocki, Director for Investment Implementation at PKP PLK. The Pact highlights the pressing need to improve transport accessibility in the ƁódĆș Voivodeship, reinforcing regional cohesion and capitalising on its central location. “The development of rail infrastructure in the ƁódĆș region will lead to better integration of regional connections, allowing for more efficient and effective travel between cities. This will offer residents more mobility options and enable businesses to transport goods more quickly and conveniently. Both major urban centres and smaller local communities will benefit,” said the CEO of PKP PLK at the signing ceremony. The signatories have committed to maximising the potential of rail transport upon completion of strategically important investment projects. These include developments such as the ƁódĆș Railway Junction, led by PLK in cooperation with Centralny Port Komunikacyjny (CPK), along the Central Railway Line (CMK), which is currently under modernisation and expansion works, including the deployemtn of ETCS, all subprojects expected to be completed in 2026. This includes the construction of BiaƂa Rawska station and is supported by funding from the European Funds for ƁódĆș 2021–2027 programme. Additionally, other rail initiatives in the province are being implemented under the Kolej Plus programme, running through to 2029 and financed jointly by the state and local authorities. “Our region is undergoing a transport revolution. Major projects such as the high-speed railway and the construction of two tunnels beneath the centre of ƁódĆș are opening up new opportunities for social, cultural, and economic development. However, these investments must be complemented by regional connections—‘tributaries’ that support the main lines. The Railway Pact for ƁódĆș responds to the region’s dynamic transformation. This tripartite commitment will provide us with a concrete action plan for the coming years,” said the Marshal of the ƁódĆș Voivodeship during the ceremony held on 9 April 2025. The aim of the Railway Pact for ƁódĆș is to ensure synergy between regional and long-distance rail connections, enabling more effective provincial and interprovincial transport. “Together with local authorities and PLK, we will work to ensure synergy between regional and long-distance routes by balancing strategic investments already underway. Increasing the region’s transport accessibility will strengthen its internal cohesion and optimise the use of its geographical, central location,” said the Minister of Infrastructure. Future actions and investment priorities will be determined based on the results of the agglomeration junction planning study. As funding becomes available, the ƁódĆș Voivodeship and PKP PLK will enter into further agreements to initiate project studies and documentation for two potential railway axes: one connecting BeƂchatĂłw with ƁódĆș, and the other linking PiotrkĂłw Trybunalski and TomaszĂłw Mazowiecki. Additionally, the Voivodeship authorities intend to pursue the launch of a fast rail connection on the ƁódĆș–TomaszĂłw Mazowiecki–Warsaw route. These projects will be co-financed by funds available to the signatories of the Railway Pact. Regional authorities are committed to ensuring the provision of provincial public utility rail transport using infrastructure managed by PLK with a minimum of eight pairs of trains operating daily. Regarding the high-speed projects in this region, Centralny Port Komunikacyjny (CPK) is advancing the Warsaw – ƁódĆș HSR aiming to reduce travel time to approximately 45 minutes. In June 2023, the EU delivered EUR 64 million for this 140 km line, which will accommodate speeds up to 350 km/h. The connection through ƁódĆș will be provided by a new 4.6 km tunnel for which the construction was launched at the end of 2023. This tunnel will link the Retkinia and Fabryczna chambers, facilitating high-speed trains connecting Warsaw, WrocƂaw, and PoznaƄ. The project is budgeted at approximately PLN 2.8 billion (EUR 654 million), with construction expected to be completed in 2028. Another strategic rail project is the cross-city railway line running through the centre of the city of ƁódĆș with transport hubs in ƁódĆș Kaliska (situated west of the city), ƁódĆș Fabryczna, the largest and most modern railway station in the city of ƁódĆș and ƁódĆș Widzew, located in the eastern part of ƁódĆș. The line is currently under construction and also includes the construction of a new section linking the Widzew and Niciarniana stations, and the tunnel reaching ƁódĆș Fabryczna station, enhancing urban mobility. ​ In addition, PKP Polskie Linie Kolejowe is implementing several projects involving the construction of new stations in the ƁódĆș region, as part of the Government programme for the construction or modernisation of railway stations for the years 2021–2025. The result of the investment will be more convenient train journeys and improved access to rail services, thereby increasing the attractiveness of rail travel for both everyday and occasional journeys. ƁódĆș Voivodeship is strategically located in central Poland for which transport is not only a way of mobility, but also the driver of trade and economic development. Concerning transport, the local authorities, as well the Polish government are focused on the modernisation and development of railway infrastructure. These enhancements are designed to improve connectivity, reduce travel times, and bolster economic development both regionally and nationally.​ The ƁódĆș Voivodeship’s substantial investments in railway infrastructure reflect a strategic vision to enhance transport efficiency, stimulate economic growth, and improve environmental sustainability. These projects not only benefit the region but also contribute to Poland’s position within the European transport network, paving the way for a more connected and prosperous future.​ These initiatives underscore the ƁódĆș Voivodeship’s commitment to modernizing its railway infrastructure, improving passenger experience, and bolstering regional development.​
railway
11 April 2025