Australian smart ticketing solution Opal is to be accepted by ride-sharing companies across Sydney in a world-first initiative.
Under the trial scheme, which is set to launch from the middle of this year, commuters can gain credit into their account when transferring to public transport from Uber or Lime e-bikes.
For example, if users catch public transport within 60 minutes of completing a ride-sharing mode, they will receive a credit to their Opal account of up to A$3 (£1.67).
New South Wales’ minister for transport and roads, Andrew Constance, said: “From the middle of this year up to 10,000 Opal digital card users will be able to pay for an Uber, a fixed fare Ingogo taxi trip or a Lime bike journey using their Opal card.
“We know how convenient using one card is and this is just the beginning. If the trial is successful we will look into rolling it out across the network and we’ll be inviting other providers to get on board too.”
Uber Australia’s general manager, Dom Taylor, said the trial was an exciting next step. “This is a fantastic example of how government and industry can work together to deliver better ways to move people from A to B.
“Sydney-siders can already access public transport information via the Uber app. Now they can use Uber to take the stress out of getting to and from a public transport hub and be rewarded for it as well.”
Furthermore, My Fast Ferry customers will receive a 10% discount on peak ferry fares and 25% when travelling off peak using their Opal digital card.
