Introduction

safeCAB is a newly developed smart card-based system designed to increase safety and security in the taxi industry for both drivers and passeners.

safeCAB is a combined pre-entry screening and journey-tracking system, providing instant and effective data capture that collates driver and passenger information.

Passenger verification is authenticated internally via an electronic control system and voice activated approval. safeCAB utilizes ‘contact-less’ smart card technology, which has the ability to function as a payment system.

safeCAB Pty Ltd is the owner of international application PCT/AU02/01724, 10/498129, 20023511867.

How safeCAB Works

The safeCAB system screens passengers before they enter the taxi and upon entry will identify which taxi and driver has picked up the passenger. In addition, safeCAB collects a variety of data including:

• Time
• Date
• Pick Up Point
• Drop Off Point
• Taxi Co-Op and Taxi Number

All this information is downloaded in real time and collated in a database. None of the information or personal details will be accessible by individual taxi drivers or passengers. safeCAB technology is fast and secure.

Installing and Using safeCAB

The safeCAB system is intentionally simple in its design and application, while being operationally advanced. The smart card reader is adhered to the inside of the taxi’s front windscreen. Prior to entering a taxi, passengers simply scan their card across the face of a reader from outside the taxi.

Community & Government Benefits

Implementing the safeCAB system will result in the following positive outcomes for the community:

• The Police Service will benefit through access to the safeCAB database, assisting in crime investigations and possibly the location of missing persons.
• Encourage additional taxi users by providing the community with a safer public transport option.
• Prevent incidents of physical and sexual assault against passengers and drivers.
• Reduce hostility between passengers and drivers.
• Reduce the incidence of fare evasion (runners).
• Encourage pick-ups in undesirable areas.
• Promote the use of taxi’s as a safe alternative transport arrangement for those who have been drinking, hopefully contributing to a decrease in the incidence of drink driving.
• Make taxi use by tourists easier and more attractive (tourists will be able to apply for a temporary safeCAB card).
• Overcome workplace safety issues for drivers therefore providing a more comfortable working environment.
• Encourage women to participate in the industry, in keeping with the Government’s equal opportunity employment regulations.
• Safecab will also assist in the the removal of illegal and non-registered drivers and vehicles. Safecab will also save the government millions of dollars by reducing fraudulent fares claimed by taxi drivers through the disabled persons fare scheme.

Safecab Expansion

Safecab was initially designed as a safety & security system, but as we developed the technology further we discovered that we would be able to interface with other applications such as :

• Credit Card Providers.
• Club Memberships.
• Health Care Technology.
• Drivers Licence.
• Pre-paid cards.
• Re-Chargeable Technology.

The most positive advance is the possibility of interfacing with the new E.R.G.smart-card Public Transport System.
As you can see, there is huge potential for growth as we move closer to a total “CARD SOCIETY”.