The integration scheme announced this week places intermodal transfers as a key point of improvement. Operators will apply one initial tariff layer that applies to a particular route, then adjust additional fees if the trip exceeds the distance limit.
In the first stage, users are not asked to change payment habits. Cards and QR already used in each mode can still be used, while a behind-the-scenes system that unifies transaction recording is being tested to reduce re-swipe times at transit gates.
If test results are stable, the next phase will expand the scheme to commuter corridors and add off-peak fare incentives. This approach is considered more realistic than simultaneous launches which risk causing service disruptions.