West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) is continuing to invest in and upgrade its Real-Time Passenger Information (RTPI) network to provide residents and visitors with more accurate, reliable, and accessible public transport information.
The programme of improvements includes the replacement and modernisation of aging information displays, enhancements to system connectivity and data quality, and the introduction of upgraded technology that delivers more accurate journey information in real time.
These investments will help passengers make informed travel decisions, improve confidence in public transport, and support the Council’s wider objectives of encouraging sustainable travel across West Northamptonshire.
By future-proofing the RTPI infrastructure, WNC is ensuring that the network remains resilient, compatible with emerging transport technologies, and capable of supporting further improvements to bus services and passenger information in the years ahead.
The upgrades represent a significant commitment to improving the customer experience and delivering a modern, reliable public transport network for local communities.
Northgate Bus Station
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Wider Network
West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) is investing in the expansion of its Real-Time Passenger Information (RTPI) network through the rollout of Vix Eden e-paper displays. These innovative, battery-operated units provide live bus arrival information, service updates and disruption messages, helping passengers make informed travel decisions and improving confidence in public transport. To date, WNC has committed to installing 300 new Vix Eden units across the bus network, significantly increasing the availability of real-time passenger information at bus stops throughout West Northamptonshire.
Battery Operated E-Paper Displays
A key advantage of the Vix Eden technology is its ability to operate for up to three years on battery power between replacements, with no requirement for continuous maintenance or external cabling. Using 4G/5G connectivity, the displays provide true real-time information with updates delivered in as little as 10 seconds and can be installed in less than five minutes.
As they do not require mains power or solar infrastructure, the units can be deployed in rural communities, smaller settlements and other locations where traditional RTPI systems would be difficult or costly to install.
This enables WNC to extend real-time passenger information to previously underserved areas, supporting wider network connectivity and ensuring passengers across both urban and rural communities benefit from accurate, accessible and reliable travel information.
The high-contrast, high-resolution e-paper displays offer excellent readability and can present a range of passenger information, including real-time departures, timetables, maps and service updates. Importantly, the Eden units can also be equipped with audible information capabilities, including text-to-speech functionality helping to make public transport more inclusive and accessible for people with disabilities.
This investment supports WNC's commitment to improving accessibility, enhancing the passenger experience and encouraging greater use of public transport across the network.
