Helping to build a stronger region through public transport

In 1999, four small regions in Western Sweden were formed into one new and large region called Vastra Gotaland to build an internationally competitive region. Public transportation was given a major role and a new fare collection and fare structure were implemented. The four former public transportation companies became subsidiaries to the parent company: Vasttrafik AB. The company operates buses, trams, trains and ferries. The characteristics of the region, with its principal town of Goteborg, are outlined. ERG Transit Systems were awarded the contract to develop the fare collection system. The fare collection and fare structure have been launched step-by-step, starting in March 2006 in Uddevalla. The vast majority of passengers now use the Vasttrafik card for payment. The number of public transport zones has been reduced from 275 to 60. The system uses contactless smart card. Vasttrafik is a founding member of Resekortsforeningen RKF, the Travel Card Association in Sweden. (A)