EMTE, in collaboration with the Polytechnic University of Catalonia (UPC) and the public company Tabasa, has developed a system for detecting people inside a vehicle in order to apply discounts for high-occupancy in toll lanes. This solution allows the proliferation of selective tolls for the so-called HOV (high-occupancy vehicles) on different toll roads.
The system designed by the COMSA EMTE subsidiary has been established in Vallvidrera tunnels (Barcelona) for several years and reduces the cost of tolls for those vehicles travelling with three or more occupants. This is the first semi-automatic HOV toll installed in Europe and was recognized in 2010 by the Barcelona City Council with the Pacte per la Mobilitat de Barcelona award.
To benefit from the discount, the driver must go to the special HOV 3+ lane, press the discount button and pay by card. The number of passengers is detected automatically and non-intrusively, avoiding the use of laser equipment that could be harmful for passengers.
This solution promotes carpooling and helps reduce traffic in the big cities, accelerating mobility and reducing emissions and noise pollution.
If you would like to know more details about how the HOV toll works, please watch this video: