Thales modernized Hong Kong's Tramway network
with Electronic Payment System

• Thales, in partnership with GOLONG (Golong International Technology Company Limited), provided an integrated electronic payment system for Hong Kong Tramways Limited (HKT).
• This system helps Hong Kong's passengers, who average 150,000 per day, with access to 12 electronic payment means including contactless credit card and QR codes, whereas only two methods were accessible before: Octopus cards and cash.

Hong Kong Tramways Limited (HKT, wholly owned by RATP Dev) currently has 165 tramcars. Thales’ new integrated solution includes software development, provision of Octopus and EMV QR Back Office and hardware design to replace existing payment system to all-in-one validator to support EMV payment, QR payment and Octopus. Thales will provide as well 3 years maintenance service to HKT.

This new Electronic Payment System has been launched in June 2023 on regular passenger trams for public’s convenience in fare payment.

The new electronic payment methods accept Octopus card, but also contactless credit card and payment QR. Thales system allows thousands of Hong Kong citizens and tourists to have 14 fare payment options: ​ 12 new electronic payment methods* on all regular tram routes, in addition to Octopus cards and cash.

“Thales is delighted to develop this user-friendly and flexible payment system of the world's largest double-deck tram fleet in operation and, among others, the most environmentally friendly public transport in Hong Kong”. Mr. Jean-Marc Reynaud, Vice-President, Revenue Collection Systems, Thales.

“ Hong Kong’s tramcars affectionately known locally as “Ding-Ding” have been operating for over 100 years. A true icon of the city and an enjoyable opportunity to experience a moving theatre of scenery and street life. Thales is committed to meeting the expectations of everyday customers while preserving this precious heritage.” Mr. Nicolas Rabbat, Chief Executive Officer, Thales Ground Transportation Systems, Hong-Kong

*The following payment media are supported: Octopus Card, Contactless Credit Card (Visa / MasterCard / UnionPay / JCB), Mobile Payment (Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay, Huawei Pay) and QR ​ Code (AlipayHK “EasyGo”, Alipay “Transit QR Code”, UnionPay “Transit QR Code” and BoC Pay “Transit Code”)