EFE Trenes de Chile (EFE) has announced the implementation of the S3 Passenger platform for EFE Central’s mainline services.
Introduced as part of its wider strategic plan to strengthen both rail connectivity and associated digitalisation initiatives; the platform, developed by Siemens Mobility subsidiary Sqills, is an AI-enhanced Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) solution that aims to provide dynamic pricing, reservations and inventory management for long-distance rail and bus operators.
The platform was made live on 22 July, and gives EFE the ability to offer passengers a simpler, more personalised way to buy tickets and plan a journey by train.
Implementation of S3 Passenger was completed in six months, and marks the first deployment of the solution in South America.
Devina Pasta, CEO Siemens Mobility Software, said:We are honoured to be a trusted partner in EFE’s digital transformation journey. By implementing S3 Passenger, EFE is equipped with the operational agility needed to scale their services and meet the growing demand for rail travel in Chile – supporting them in tripling ridership by 2030.
For passengers, this means a seamless and flexible end-to-end digital experience, from booking, reservations and modifications in real-time.
S3 Passenger aims to provide passengers with a ‘clearer and quicker purchase process’, as well as more transparent information and tools to enable easier trip planning. Passengers will also be given access to self-service options and greater autonomy to manage tickets, change bookings or request assistance when needed, as well as choose to add extra services such as additional baggage, travelling with a pet, a preferred window seat, a meal or a seat upgrade.
Passengers are also now able to purchase a single ticket for connecting journeys, for example when travelling through to Constitución from any point of origin, or buy a seat for a child travelling with a parent. Elsewhere, the platform allows offers the operator the ability to issue vouchers and run promotional fares, whilst it also seeks to replace manual processes such as cash management at stations.
Provisions have been made for those with specific needs, with spaces and areas introduced for passengers using wheelchairs, allowing all to travel comfortably and safely.
The project as a whole aims to modernise the digital backbone of EFE Central’s major services, including the Chillán line, Talca-Constitución and tourist trains, and, by adopting S3 Passenger, EFE seeks to align its technology with leading operators worldwide.
