Capital Area Transit System (CATS) has signed a multi-year partnership agreement with Hitachi America, Ltd. (Hitachi America) to help the agency increase ridership through the improvement of passenger engagement, journey visibility and asset utilization.
With a fleet of conventional diesel buses, electric buses, trolleys and cutaway vans, this new technology will allow CATS to better address issues reported by customers related to on-time arrival, ineffective communication channels, long-journey times due to layover and transition problems, as well as concerns regarding comfort, cleanliness and amenities. To address these challenges, Hitachi America will leverage its data-driven digital solutions by Lumada, in combination with ecosystem partners, to enhance services by designing, and delivering a multi-channel messaging and a mobile-wallet technology to CATS’ passengers. Initial exploratory research began in December 2020, and implementation is now underway.
Lumada is Hitachi's digital solutions, services and advanced technologies for enabling digital experiences, operations and business models at an industrial scale.
“Improving the rider experience is at the heart of the strategic partnership between Hitachi and CATS,” said Hicham Abdessamad, chairman, Hitachi America, Ltd. “Having innovated in the mobility and transport business for 100 years, Hitachi’s passenger-centric mindset, coupled with its data-driven technologies and digital solutions, allows CATS to create a form of engagement that is more connected, flexible and actionable for their customers and partners.”
“We are thrilled to launch this unique partnership with Hitachi, and equally excited to implement these innovative services that allow us to communicate real-time information to our customers,” said CATS CEO Bill Deville. “We are always seeking new partnerships and new funding opportunities, and this is another way we can fulfill our mission of connecting our customers to what matters.”
CATS will gain data insights into the holistic passenger journey, leading to operational improvements and improved service offerings for enhanced passenger experience. In 2019, Hitachi and CATS jointly collaborated in pursuing an Accelerating Innovative Mobility (AIM) grant from the Federal Transit Administration to showcase how CATS can incorporate new approaches to improve the rider experience.
