Kapsch TrafficCom, a toll and traffic management specialist with 4,000 employees, has maintained its momentum despite a slight decrease in sales to EUR 538.8 million last year. Despite the setback, EBIT increased to EUR 70.5 million thanks to an advance payment from Germany for a failed toll project. CEO Georg Kapsch attributes this success to major project wins, with incoming orders nearly doubling to 734 million euros. The EMEA region, particularly Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, experienced strong growth.
The company secured a toll control system contract in Switzerland and networked vehicles on the German highway, allowing communication between vehicles and infrastructure operators. In Latin America, specifically Brazil, a contract was obtained for a free-flow toll system between São Paulo and Rio. Despite the promising future market, Kapsch emphasizes that business risks are tied to political decisions such as data release policies by the EU.
Kapsch mentions the differences in technology adoption between North America and the EU. While 5G technology is utilized in North America, the EU prefers Wi-Fi technology due to lack of standardization in connected vehicles. Kapsch TrafficCom focuses on creating a technical platform to converge vehicle and infrastructure data exchange, enhancing vehicle safety, informing drivers of traffic conditions, and facilitating adaptive traffic light control in urban areas.
Regarding connected vehicles, Kapsch foresees commercial success no earlier than 2030 but urges investments in technology now to stay competitive in the emerging market. He emphasizes the importance of integrating vehicle and infrastructure data to create a seamless system that benefits drivers and traffic management.
Kapsch TrafficCom has been operating for over 125 years and is known as one of Europe’s leading providers of intelligent transportation systems (ITS). Its expertise spans everything from toll management to traffic flow optimization and even smart city solutions. The company has won numerous awards for its innovative products and services over the years.
In recent years, Kapsch TrafficCom has expanded its operations beyond Europe into other regions such as Asia Pacific and South America. The company has also diversified its offerings beyond traditional ITS solutions by venturing into fields like energy management systems.
Overall, Kapsch TrafficCom remains committed to staying at the forefront of ITS innovation while continuing to deliver value for its customers around the world.
