STMicroelectronics and Telepass Enhance Automatic Toll Systems with Secure Access to Protected Areas
- Pilot project integrates secure access to private areas with existing application for toll collection
- New devices incorporate ST’s latest ultra-low-power and security technologies
- System is being tested at ST’s Catania (Italy) site
STMicroelectronics (NYSE: STM), a global semiconductor leader serving customers across the spectrum of electronics applications, and Telepass S.p.A, the Autostrade company that carries out activities related to the distribution, marketing, and management of the Telepass and Viacard electronic payment systems, today announced the expansion of their 25-year cooperation on toll-collection systems. The two companies are now in advanced field trials of a new feature enabling secure access to protected areas. The Telepass toll-collection system is used throughout Italy by 8.5 million drivers and is a prime example of a Smart-Driving system.
The toll-collection system, jointly designed and manufactured exclusively by ST for Telepass, uses contactless radio-frequency (RF) communications to evaluate where and when drivers use toll roads. In the new pilot project, and on top of a number of substantial enhancements to lower power consumption and extend battery life, the on-board toll-collection units have been upgraded with a more secure RF-communication link to roadside terminals and tolling servers, as well as with corporate networks, to enable access to the IT systems of corporate and private protected areas. The system can also pair with a dedicated smartphone app to distinguish between road tolls and secure access to protected areas. The new on-board tolling units are currently being field-tested at the STMicroelectronics site in Catania, Italy.
“Over the years of their collaboration, ST has delivered more than 15 million devices to Telepass and we are now using our latest ultra-low-power and security technologies in the new generation of the Telepass on-board tolling units to extend its functionality with access to protected areas,” said Nunzio Abbate, General Manager, System Lab and Subsystem Product Group, STMicroelectronics. “We’re now enabling the next phase of smart, connected, convenience-enhancing technology, producing and testing this jointly-designed Telepass device, which will be compliant with both of the European road-tolling standards.”
"Telepass and ST have been collaborating for 25 years to develop ever more sophisticated electronic tolling systems, and the project that we present today is an example of this,” said Ugo de Carolis, CEO of Telepass. “This enhancement confirms our strong commitment to development and innovation, increasing Telepass’ leadership in Italy and Europe. In Paris yesterday we presented the new interoperable European Telepass, which for the first time in Europe allows vehicles to travel and pay tolls using a single on-board device in five European countries including Italy.
“By partnering with ST,” de Carolis continued, “we are leveraging our know-how to test the next-generation system with new features and user customizations through smartphone- access. In the new Telepass system, we combine Smart-Environment technologies with those of Smart Driving, reinforcing our long-standing objective: mobility that is more efficient and environment-friendly, and can offer services, even off the highway. With the new Telepass, users will be able to securely access protected areas, thanks to the Pyng app. Moreover, the lane dedicated to Telepass customers even allows faster and easier crossing of the Strait of Messina."
Telepass
Telepass S.p.A. is the Autostrade company for Italy that carries out activities relating to the distribution, marketing, and management of the Telepass and Viacard electronic payment systems. Today, more than 20 years after its launch, the number of Telepass devices in circulation exceeds 8.5 million. Over this time, Telepass has been enriched with new services for its customers, from the payment of parking and urban access to the C areas of Milan, or paid on-street parking in Italy’s largest cities via the convenient Telepass app Pyng, to Option Premium, a card that offers to more than 1.8 million customers a package of services and opportunities to save on toll facilities, benefits at rest or service areas and free roadside assistance on the highway. Crossing the Strait of Messina is quick and easy using the lane dedicated to Telepass customers, and from July 2014 those who wish to enjoy all of the premium benefits including free roadside assistance extended to all regular roads, as well as car parks with Telepass arrangements, can request Telepass Premium Extra. The Premium and Premium Extra cards are reserved for Telepass customers.
To take advantage of the offer or access the updated list of services and discounts for premium customers, simply log into the site www.telepass.it, visit a Blue Point or Telepass Point (list available on telepass.it) or call the (Italy) toll-free number 800 269269.
About STMicroelectronics
ST is a global semiconductor leader delivering intelligent and energy-efficient products and solutions that power the electronics at the heart of everyday life. ST’s products are found everywhere today, and together with our customers, we are enabling smarter driving and smarter factories, cities and homes, along with the next generation of mobile and Internet of Things devices. By getting more from technology to get more from life, ST stands for life.augmented.
In 2015, the Company’s net revenues were $6.90 billion, serving more than 100,000 customers worldwide. Further information can be found at www.st.com
Media Contacts
Ufficio Stampa Telepass SpA
06-43632500
ufficiostampa@autostrade.it
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STMicroelectronics
+39.039.6035113
STMicroelectronics.ufficiostampa@st.com
