In the ever-evolving landscape of modern cities, public transport is both a critical enabler and a pressure point. Riders want intuitive journeys and seamless ticketing. Operators grapple with efficiency, accessibility, and staff shortages. Policymakers push for smarter, greener systems. The result? A complex dance of competing demands and rising expectations.

NEC believes the answer lies in coordinated mobility: integrating data, systems, and people to deliver a transport experience that is more than the sum of its parts.

NEC's Vision for Mobility-as-a-Service

In the smart transport space, NEC has over 30 years of experience and customers in more than 50 cities. Leading these projects are NEC experts who understand the transport landscape and are responsible for delivering new solutions and technologies to our cities.

Building on this legacy, NEC has steadily evolved from hardware provider to strategic mobility partner. At the centre of this shift is the NEC Mobility Platform – a modular, cloud-based ecosystem that streamlines transit operations, empowers passengers, and creates a more connected public transport landscape.

“We’re building a system that helps transport operators better manage their services and interact with passengers,” explains Mark Messenger, Head of Smart Transport – ANZ and global COE Lead at NEC. “At the same time, we’re introducing easier ways for people to plan and pay for their journeys.”

In Australia, a next-generation ticketing solution powered by NEC has already transformed the daily commute. Riders can now tap on with credit cards, mobile phones, or dedicated smartcards, while real-time bus information enhances trip planning. According to Mark, the impact has been tangible:

“Between 35% and 40% of all patrons are using their credit cards to pay for their trips.”

NEC has also deployed versions of its NEC Mobility Platform in the Northern territory of Australia, and similar deployments are rolling out in Great Wellington, New Zealand and Victoria, Australia.

Tackling Real-World Challenges

More than just a product, the NEC Mobility Platform is designed to address systemic pain points, with one of the most significant being the industry-wide struggle to attract and retain drivers.

Operating a bus in today’s conditions – urban congestion, unpredictable weather, and growing responsibility – can be daunting. NEC’s platform includes driver assist tools that reduce cognitive load, helping drivers stay on schedule with confidence. The goal: make the job less stressful and more sustainable, whether you're new to the role or a seasoned professional.

Accessibility is another focal point. NEC is exploring the use of Auracast - new Bluetooth technology that pushes bus information directly to connected hearing aids. It's a potential game-changer for passengers with hearing loss.

“We've also been introducing mobile applications that integrate with phones’ built-in accessibility features such as screen readers or haptics so that the visually impaired can get that information delivered to them,” shares Mark.

“It’s about removing uncertainty for people with disabilities. We want everyone to travel with confidence.”

Data at the Core

Every journey tells a story. With NEC’s platform, operators gain access to data that helps optimise bus routes, manage electric vehicle charging, and even bolster safety and security planning. The ability to make real-time, evidence-based decisions is what sets NEC’s approach apart.

“The goal of the platform is to help operators make more informed decisions on optimising bus routes to meet demand,” explains Mark. “From a safety and security viewpoint, we can also utilise data to provide a safer transport environment.”

Meet Us at UITP Summit 2025

Join us at the UITP Global Public Transport Summit in Hamburg on 15 June 2025, joining 10,000 professionals from 110 countries. NEC will showcase the NEC Mobility Platform, along with other innovative technologies such as Generative AI, Cybersecurity, Data Platform, and Image Analysis.

Whether you're a transit operator, policymaker, or technologist - visit the NEC booth to discover how coordinated mobility can transform the passenger experience and empower smarter cities.