Results from the demonstration of interoperable road user end-to-end charging and telematics systems (Directs)

In 2001, the Fareway Alliance, comprising Kellogg Brown & Root (KBR), Atkins and Thales Telecommunication Services, was selected by the UK Department for Transport (DfT) to set up and operate DIRECTS, a fixed price research project to demonstrate the operation of Road User Charging (RUC) systems for open multilane trunk roads and urban roads. The project is aimed at preparing technical specifications and proving equipment interoperability, including Dedicated Short Range Communication (DSRC) and Mobile Positioning System (MPS) charging equipment, exception handling, enforcement and full Back Office functionality. Based on a business model proposed by the DfT following successful on-track testing completed at the TRL in Crowthorne, UK, the project moved to the demonstration area in the city of Leeds, UK, where on-road trials were completed in March 2006. This paper provides an insight into the practical experiences and results gained in integrating, testing and operating an end-to-end RUC system