Rail passengers crying out for new technologies

Rail commuters in five global cities including Sydney are calling for new technologies to be deployed to enrich their journeys, according to research from BAI Communications.

A survey of over 2500 commuters in Sydney, Hong Kong, London, New York and Toronto found that 94% believe that all rail networks should offer digital connectivity, and 83% think innovative transport networks are key requirements for a smart city.

More than four in five (81%) report that advances in transport-related technology are already increasing their use or changing the way they use public transport, and 95% would be more likely to use rail if more technology-driven solutions were deployed.

Respondents indicated that continuous connectivity on a public transport system would allow them to complete work so they spend fewer hours in the office (56%), offer the potential for career improvement (46%) and be more open to location and housing changes (45%).

“The modern commuter isn’t just looking to get from A to B, they are expecting more from transport networks and want technology to enrich their journeys. A smart-city commuter will use digital connectivity to work smarter, live better and reduce stress to create more mindful trips,” BAI Communications Chief Strategy Officer James Woodhams said.

“Imagine the commute experience of a citizen choosing to live in the outer suburbs but still working in the city. On any given day, they can stream a video tutorial on the morning commute while downloading a presentation. Then, they can leave the office early to take a conference call on the train so they’re home for dinner, arriving relaxed and happy; this is all made possible with a connected public transport network.”

Image credit: ©stock.adobe.com/au/Givaga

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