28 March 2006

Commuting to and from london just got easier

Award-winning coach operator The Kings Ferry Travel Group has launched a new service for commuters that aims to make that journey home easier.

CoachTrac Commuter is a satellite tracking system that allows commuters to log on via the website, or by using a WAP mobile phone or PDA and receive up-to-date, real-time information about the whereabouts and progress of their coach.

Each of The Kings Ferry coaches is fitted with a GPS locator. As a coach passes along the route a signal is picked up and the coach’s location is transmitted to the CoachTrac service every 30 seconds.

Steve O’Neill, managing director of The Kings Ferry Travel Group, said: “Commuters want to be kept up-to-date with their coach location so they can plan their journey home. With this system we can now keep them informed. This is a value-added service that The Kings Ferry feels is important for our customers.”

“The congestion charge has increased the need for commuter coaches and the growth in the housing market in Kent has further fuelled the need for an alternative to the train and the car. We looked into a tracker system about two years ago but now the technology is more advanced and the service we can offer is much better.”

“There are plenty of benefits for the commuter. By knowing the real-time position of their coach while it is still on route, commuters have the opportunity to plan their time around arrivals and departures. This gives them the freedom to leave the house or office just a few minutes before the coach is due to arrive, maybe build up flexi-time at the office or even stay for another drink after work with colleagues.”