NLEX to use plate number recognition along with RFID for toll collection

NLEX to pilot implementation of Automatic License Plate Recognition system

Ever since the government required motorists to use RFID tags on all tollways to minimize the risk of spreading the coronavirus, it wasn’t a fairy tale story at all for many. There were lots of instances that the RFID scanners didn’t work, which then resulted in the long queue of motorists behind.

There were also reports from some motorists that their RFID tags were being debited incorrectly, and many more. Up until now, it is still a work in progress and that’s why NLEX Corporation is pleased to announce that they are currently doing systems enhancements to improve the travel experience of their customers.

Some of these improvements include the realignment of RFID-reader antennas, the installation of contactless card readers, and the initial implementation of automatic license plate recognition (ALPR). Wait, license plate recognition?

Automatic License Plate Recognition (ALPR)

To put it simply, ALPR uses smart camera technology to capture and recognize a vehicle’s plate number or conduction sticker number. NLEX Corporation will pilot this new technology in 25 of its toll booths located in the City of Valenzuela, which has suspended their business permit last December.

NLEX Corporation added that these ALPRs are capable of reading vehicle license plates and are useful for matching transactions, improving safety, and enforcing traffic laws.

As the barriers in the Mindanao, Karuhatan, Paso de Blas, and Lawang Bato are kept raised, the ALPR technology provides an automated process to facilitate the easier matching of motorists’ entry and exit transactions. It also helps in identifying vehicles passing the RFID lanes without RFID stickers (3-strike policy), as well as those with insufficient balance, and vehicles that pose potential safety issues.

The systems enhancements, according to NLEX Corporation, have also improved the data transmission between various reloading channels to their Easytrip account, from the usual 45-minute delay to an almost real-time reflection of balances now.

“Aside from infrastructure building, we are also persistently working on digitizing and automating our business processes. We are continually adjusting our systems so we can provide a more efficient service to our motorists and afford them ease of travel,” says NLEX Corporation president and GM, Luigi Bautista.