Kapsch TrafficCom Introduces Advanced ANPR Technology for Tolling in America
In a significant stride towards revolutionising tolling systems across North America, Kapsch TrafficCom has unveiled its latest Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) engine.
This cutting-edge technology promises to enhance performance, versatility, and cost efficiency, setting a new benchmark in license plate recognition.
Pioneering ANPR Innovation
Building upon the success of regional ANPR engines launched in Europe and Australia in 2023, Kapsch TrafficCom has now tailored its advanced technology for the North American landscape. Unlike traditional, project-specific systems, this new engine is designed to support multiple projects across the continent, ensuring unparalleled accuracy and reliability.
Chris Jones, Director of Video Transaction Optimisation at Kapsch TrafficCom North America, elaborates: “A newly developed deep neural network specifically for North America ensures precise identification of license plates from 58 jurisdictions, including all mainland US states, Hawaii, Mexico, and the most relevant Canadian provinces.”
JB Kendrick, President of Kapsch TrafficCom North America, adds: “Our newest and most robust engine can accurately identify over 150 plate types, focusing on the most widely used designs and ensuring easy scalability to include additional types as needed. While it is not a stand-alone product, it is a key building block for our existing and future roadside tolling clients. These investments in continuous enhancements exemplify our conviction to improve all our technologies.”
Navigating North America’s Diverse Landscape
The vast array of license plate designs, syntaxes, and permissible characters across North America presents unique challenges for ANPR systems. Kapsch TrafficCom’s new engine has been meticulously trained to navigate these complexities, delivering exceptional performance even in the most demanding scenarios.
With deployments already underway in several projects, this ANPR engine is poised to elevate license plate recognition standards in North America. By improving the percentage of plates read automatically, it significantly reduces the need for manual reviews, thereby cutting operational costs.
A Testament to Global Collaboration
The development of this North American ANPR engine underscores the power of cross-regional collaboration within Kapsch TrafficCom.
Experts from around the globe have synergised to craft a solution tailored to the specific demands of the North American market, enabling tolling clients to achieve greater operational efficiency and readiness for future challenges.
The Broader Implications of Advanced ANPR Systems
The introduction of Kapsch TrafficCom’s enhanced ANPR engine comes at a pivotal time. The global automatic number plate recognition system market was valued at approximately USD 3.77 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 9.3% from 2025 to 2030. This growth is driven by the increasing adoption of advanced security measures, the need for effective traffic management solutions, and the rising concerns over vehicle-related crimes.
In North America, law enforcement agencies are increasingly mandating standardised plate designs to facilitate consistent data capture. Such directives, coupled with private-sector interest in managing commercial fleets, indicate a positive trajectory for ANPR system deployment.
Addressing Privacy and Data Security Concerns
While the advancements in ANPR technology offer numerous benefits, they also raise concerns regarding privacy and data security. The ability to capture and store vast amounts of vehicle location data has led to debates about mass surveillance and the potential for misuse.
It’s imperative for companies like Kapsch TrafficCom to implement robust data protection measures, ensuring that the technology is used responsibly and that collected data is safeguarded against unauthorised access.
Future Prospects and Developments
Looking ahead, the integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning into ANPR systems is expected to further enhance their accuracy and efficiency. These technologies can enable real-time data analysis, predictive analytics for traffic management, and more sophisticated vehicle identification features.
Moreover, as electric and autonomous vehicles become more prevalent, ANPR systems will need to adapt to new vehicle designs and technologies. Kapsch TrafficCom’s commitment to continuous innovation positions it well to lead these developments, ensuring that its solutions remain at the forefront of the industry.
Embracing a Smarter Transportation Future
Kapsch TrafficCom’s latest ANPR engine exemplifies the company’s dedication to pioneering intelligent transportation solutions. By addressing the unique challenges of the North American market and leveraging global expertise, this technology not only enhances tolling operations but also contributes to a more efficient and secure transportation infrastructure.
As urbanisation intensifies and the demand for sustainable mobility solutions grows, innovations like this ANPR engine will play a crucial role in shaping the future of transportation. By embracing such advancements, North America moves closer to realising a seamless, efficient, and intelligent transportation network.
