In Europe, the interconnection of roads has been transformed by technological innovation in toll systems, which have significantly improved the travelers’ experience. A recent analysis examines how these systems work in countries such as Italy, France, Portugal, and Spain, highlighting the convenience, costs, and future trends of these infrastructures.
France leads with an extensive toll highway network that exceeds 9,000 kilometers, connecting important cities like Paris, Bordeaux, and Lyon. Its Liber-t system allows drivers to pay without stopping, thanks to exclusive lanes, although the cost per 100 kilometers is between 9 and 10 euros. Despite the high fees, the quality and maintenance of the roads justify this investment. Additionally, the system is compatible with devices like Bip&Drive, facilitating transit from Spain without the need to change the toll device.
Italy, on the other hand, operates a system called Telepass, which covers over 6,500 kilometers of highways and allows for a smooth passage at toll booths. Costs are similar to those in France, with prices close to 9 euros per 100 kilometers, being especially valued for long trips. Likewise, interoperability with Bip&Drive helps simplify the process for travelers.
In the case of Portugal, the Via Verde system stands out for its innovation, with approximately 3,000 kilometers of highways offering competitive rates similar to Italy and France. This system also incorporates “free flow” sections, eliminating physical barriers and improving traffic flow. Thanks to its technology and attractive prices, Portugal is positioned as one of the most comfortable road travel destinations in southern Europe, and is compatible with Bip&Drive devices.
Spain presents a different reality, with just 2,200 kilometers of toll highways and costs ranging between 7 and 9 euros per 100 kilometers. Although the Via-T system has a usage rate of over 50%, many drivers still have to stop to pay, contrasting with the fluidity of “free flow” systems installed in neighboring countries. Faced with this situation, it is expected that Spain will adopt a similar model, using technology such as Via-T and license plate recognition to modernize its infrastructure and, consequently, reduce both CO2 emissions and travel times.
Bip&Drive, a leader in the supply of Via-T devices in Spain, acts as an essential facilitator in the integration of these toll systems. With a single device, users can travel through France, Andorra, Spain, and Portugal, promising to simplify the driving experience and contribute to a unified toll network in Europe.
In addition to focusing on tolls, Bip&Drive is developing connected devices, highlighting the geolocated V-16 Beacon, which aims to replace emergency triangles in Spain. This new gadget will provide real-time information, thus improving road safety.
Since its founding in 2014, and with the backing of Abertis, Cintra, and Itínere, Bip&Drive has evolved from being a simple toll company to becoming the largest service platform for drivers in Spain, with over 1.3 million users. Its proposal, which includes tolls, ITV, refueling, and parking management, positions it as a strategic partner for public authorities in the search for more sustainable and efficient mobility.
Referrer: MiMub in Spanish