HKT will also provide QR code payments and onboard diagnostics for the fleet (Photo: HKT)
Hong Kong operator HKT has entered a collaboration with Jumbo Taxi to introduce features aimed at making taxi rides in Hong Kong safer, more enjoyable and more convenient.
Subsidiary CSL Mobile is providing the Jumbo Taxi fleet with a connected car solution which will include a Wi-Fi hotspot served by HKT's 4G LTE-A mobile network, which will be used to provide free internet access to commuters.
The solution uses ZTE's 4G onboard diagnostics device, and will also track taxis' real time locations using GPS technology and assess driver patterns and behaviors to enhance road safety.
The solution has been installed on 100 Jumbo Taxis, and will be introduced across the entire fleet by the end of the first quarter.
HKT Payment will also introduce the ability to pay fares by scanning a unique QR code assigned to each driver and then inputting the fare amount and confirming payment using the Tap & Go mobile wallet.
During a promotional period which will last until June 30, customers will be able to waiver the HK$50 taxi booking charge and luggage fee for fares of at least HK$150. Until March 31, Tap & Go users will also be eligible for a HK$50 stored value rebate on fares of HK$100 or above.
“We are pleased to introduce an innovative mobility solution that will improve the level of service and hospitality Hong Kong people can expect when riding in a taxi,” HKT group managing director Alex Arena said.
“We are keen to partner with local premium taxi service providers who share the same vision of driving towards a cashless city. A journey enhanced by our state-of-the-art network and secure and convenient mobile payment service will immensely elevate the overall taxi commuter experience.”
First published in Computerworld Hong Kong