Kapsch TrafficCom unveils the First Solar Transponder for Smart Tolling
In a bold leap toward sustainability in intelligent transportation, Kapsch TrafficCom has unveiled Elumian, the world’s first light-powered transponder.
This cutting-edge device redefines the standards of tolling technology by converting any light—be it natural, ambient, or artificial—into energy, thereby setting a new benchmark for innovation in the industry.
Elumian – A Game-Changer in Tolling Technology
Elumian is not just another tolling transponder; it represents a revolutionary step in the world of automatic toll payments. A tolling transponder is typically a small electronic device mounted inside vehicles to facilitate automatic, wireless toll payments on roads, bridges, and tunnels. What makes Elumian stand out is its ability to harness energy from any light source, offering continuous charging to its internal battery without the dependency on direct sunlight.
This breakthrough is powered by Powerfoyle™ technology, developed by Kapsch’s Swedish partner, Exeger. The innovative material is not just a solar cell—it’s a versatile power source that captures light across a broader spectrum than traditional solar technologies, making it highly efficient even in less-than-ideal lighting conditions. As the exclusive vendor of Powerfoyle in the tolling space, Kapsch TrafficCom is at the forefront of integrating this technology into everyday use, driving forward a more sustainable future.
Kapsch TrafficCom CTO Alfredo Escriba emphasised the significance of this advancement: “Elumian represents a fundamental shift in how we approach sustainability within our industry. With its extended lifespan and reduced need for replacements, Elumian helps our customers make more environmentally responsible decisions without compromising on performance or quality.”
Sustainability Meets Performance
At the heart of Elumian is Exeger’s patented Powerfoyle solar cell. Unlike conventional solar cells that rely on direct sunlight, Powerfoyle converts light from various sources—whether it’s a dimly lit office, street lighting, or sunlight—into usable energy. This flexibility ensures Elumian’s battery stays charged under diverse conditions, significantly extending the device’s life and reducing the frequency of replacements.
Powerfoyle is responsibly manufactured in Sweden using 100% renewable electricity, free from toxic emissions, and sourced from abundant materials. This aligns Elumian perfectly with modern sustainability goals, positioning it as a greener choice for tolling systems worldwide. Georgios Foufas, Chief Commercial Officer at Exeger, remarked: “The potential for growth in this vast market is immense, and we are excited to be at the forefront of it. With the introduction of Elumian, we are together taking a significant step towards a more sustainable future by prolonging battery life and minimising the need for battery changes.”
Benefits Beyond Sustainability
Elumian’s light-powered design doesn’t just make it an eco-friendly option—it’s also a practical solution for the modern tolling industry. Its ability to capture light from various sources extends its operational life, reducing the need for frequent replacements and ultimately lowering the environmental impact associated with production and disposal. Additionally, this technology decreases distribution and disposal costs compared to conventional transponders, providing a cost-effective option for operators.
Beyond the sustainability angle, Elumian retains the robust functionality expected of high-performance tolling devices. It is an evolution of the successful TRP-4010 model by Kapsch TrafficCom, combining familiar reliability with innovative enhancements. Officially named the TRP-4010-40E, it seamlessly integrates into existing tolling systems, making it an easy upgrade for operators looking to enhance their environmental credentials.
Easy Handling and Versatile Use
Ease of use is another strong suit for Elumian. Its plug-and-play installation ensures that users can quickly and effortlessly set it up, maintaining peak performance without the usual headaches associated with complex configurations. The versatility of Powerfoyle technology means the transponder is constantly recharging, whether exposed to bright sunlight or the dim glow of car park lighting, which contributes to its long lifespan.
This continuous recharging capability makes Elumian particularly suitable for a range of environments, from busy urban toll roads to remote highways where light conditions can vary widely. Its innovative design and user-friendly operation underline Kapsch TrafficCom’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the intelligent transportation industry.
Forward-Looking Vision
Kapsch TrafficCom’s unveiling of Elumian is not just a technological milestone; it’s a testament to the company’s broader vision for the future of transportation. The company’s strategy revolves around creating smarter, more efficient solutions that not only meet today’s challenges but anticipate the needs of tomorrow. By offering a product that aligns with global sustainability goals, Kapsch is helping reshape the tolling industry, making it greener and more efficient.
As a global leader with projects in more than 50 countries, Kapsch TrafficCom’s innovative solutions span tolling, traffic management, and demand management. The company’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its one-stop-shop approach, covering everything from system components to design, implementation, and operation. With subsidiaries and branches in over 25 countries, Kapsch continues to push for a future where mobility is seamless, sustainable, and efficient.
Innovating for a Greener Future
Elumian is a clear example of how technological innovation can drive positive change within industries traditionally challenged by sustainability issues. By incorporating Powerfoyle’s light-harvesting capabilities, Kapsch TrafficCom has set a new standard for the intelligent transportation sector, demonstrating that performance and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand.
With a keen focus on enhancing the efficiency and sustainability of tolling operations worldwide, Kapsch TrafficCom is not just adapting to the future—it’s helping to shape it. The introduction of Elumian marks a significant step forward in the journey toward a more sustainable, tech-driven transportation ecosystem.
