Buses are more than just a way to get from A to B. They’re the backbone of how cities move. To attract more passengers and keep services running smoothly, local authorities are focused on making bus travel faster and more convenient. One of the biggest steps toward that goal is removing cash from journeys. By going cashless, boarding becomes quicker, delays are reduced, and the overall experience improves for everyone.
Discover how Cammax partnered with Bristol, South Gloucerstershire and North Somerset councils to launch Metrobus – a rapid transit service that boosts accessibility, cuts emissions and enhances transport links acrosss the west of England.
In order to help speed up journey times, metrobus was to be a ‘buy before you board’ service with no tickets sold on the bus, helping to reduce waiting time at stops whilst also protecting ticket revenues from cash shrinkage. As such it was vital that metrobus provided customers with a reliable means of obtaining tickets prior to boarding the bus.
The Council commissioned Cammax to deliver 80 bespoke Ticket Vending Machines (TVMs) that could sell both paper and smart tickets, provide journey planning, deliver real-time information, and feature an emergency intercom. The machines needed to include RNIB REACT3 functionality and be operable across a wide service area.
Difficulties arose due to the highly customized design requiring imported safety glass, premium stainless steel, and specialized parts—causing longer-than-expected lead times. Additionally, the considerable size and weight of the units necessitated careful foundational planning. One site couldn’t support a full-sized unit, prompting a custom smaller version. Installation across public highways also demanded meticulous planning and coordination.
Cammax designed the “iPoint”—an instantly recognizable, 3m+ tall kiosk made with marine-grade stainless steel and reinforced security glass. It combined multiple capabilities: smart and paper ticket dispensing, RTI displays, journey planning tools, and an emergency intercom. Behind the scenes, a branded back-office portal enabled centralized monitoring and content management.
Cammax managed the entire lifecycle—from requirements gathering and bespoke design to manufacturing, installation, commissioning, and ongoing maintenance. A dedicated project manager led weekly reviews, navigating delays and adapting the design for challenging installation sites.
“The iPoints are an integral part of the metrobus offer and allow passengers to purchase a range of tickets at the bus stop via a debit or credit card”.
Ian Maggs
Bristol City Council Infrastructure & Projects Team