Bangkok Buses Upgrade: QR Codes & E-Wallets Accepted

[webfact]

Picture courtesy of Daily News

 

In a move to modernise public transport in Bangkok, Thai Smile Bus has rolled out a novel payment system allowing passengers to settle their fares using QR codes and Digital E-Wallets. This development marks a significant shift towards a more digital, convenient experience for bus users in the bustling city.

 

Following successful trials on their electric bus service along route 4-13 (75), which garnered positive reactions, the company introduced the new payment method across all its services on 1st March. This initiative is part of an overarching strategy to streamline the city's public transport and make it more user-friendly in the digital age.

 

The key innovation is the ability to pay through PromptPay QR codes, a popular and efficient payment method in Thailand. Furthermore, passengers can also use Digital E-Wallets like True Money Wallet, providing a seamless cashless transaction option for tech-savvy commuters.

 

Kulpornphat Wongmacharapinya, CEO of Thai Smile Bus Company Limited, highlighted the aim to match the evolving lifestyle of Bangkok's residents by offering a variety of convenient, contactless payment options. This modernisation not only facilitates ease of use but also enhances safety, minimising the need for physical cash exchanges amidst ongoing public health concerns.

In addition to these tech-forward solutions, more traditional fare options remain available. The HOP Card continues to be a popular choice, offering unlimited travel on all routes for a flat rate of just 40 Thai Baht (approximately £0.90) per day. Cash payments are still accepted, ensuring that all passengers, regardless of their preferred payment method, can use the service hassle-free.

 

Thai Smile Bus, with its fleet of environmentally-friendly electric buses, plays a crucial role in Bangkok’s transport landscape. The company prides itself on providing an affordable and sustainable alternative to conventional travel methods, contributing to reduced emissions and cleaner air in Thailand's capital and surrounding areas.

 

This progressive step towards digitisation is expected to enhance customer satisfaction and represents a significant shift in how public transport operates in one of Southeast Asia's busiest hubs. As Bangkok embraces this change, commuters can look forward to quicker, safer, and more efficient journeys across the city.

 

As this development unfolds, it's clear that the integration of modern technology with public services is paving the way for a smarter, more connected urban environment in Bangkok, reflecting broader trends seen globally, reported The Thaiger.

 

-- 2025-03-03

 

 

[thanadon324]

QR code is too slow for this use

[it is what it is]

4 minutes ago, thanadon324 said:

QR code is too slow for this use

 

agree, what's needed is a unilateral, accepted by all modes of transport, travelcard, the same as most major cities around the world take for granted, but for some reason seems unachievable here.

[PETERTHEEATER]

Tap on, tap off not available?

[khunjeff]

5 hours ago, webfact said:

Thai Smile Bus has rolled out a novel payment system allowing passengers to settle their fares using QR codes

 

It's so novel that no one thought of it before, other than every market stall, every retailer, and even the Don Muang airport buses...

[impulse]

2 hours ago, it is what it is said:

agree, what's needed is a unilateral, accepted by all modes of transport, travelcard, the same as most major cities around the world take for granted, but for some reason seems unachievable here.

 

They should call them "coins".

 

My fear is that once they start accepting QR codes, they won't take cash any more.