PTT is launching a new scheme that will track NGVs using radio frequency identification (RFID) installed at natural gas dispensers in NGV stations. When an NGV fitted with an RFID tag is driven up to a dispenser, the RFID reader will automatically track the information on the tag and offer a discount to the driver.

The RFID tag will store information related to the vehicles, including licence plate number, the machine's number, driver information and the price.

Chaicharearn Atibaedya, executive vice president of PTT's information and communication technology services centre, said the RFID system will provide real-time information, increase information efficiency, and reduce the cost of fuel for drivers.

The RFID technology will also allow PTT to conduct promotion campaigns for customers with RFID tags, offering lower prices compared to general NGVs.

Thailand's natural gas plan states that natural gas consumption should reach at least 10 per cent of petrol and diesel consumption by 2008. To achieve this, the number of NGV service stations in Bangkok and nearby provinces will be increased from 60 this year to 740 nationwide by 2010, with the aim of servicing around 50,000 NGVs.

"NGVs will be the alternative for drivers who use their cars a lot as natural gas will be cheaper than petrol," said Chaicharean. He said a couple of years ago the firm set up a pilot RFID scheme, tracking the company's 200 mobile computers, which staff were allowed to take home for their work.

"With the pilot project, PTT was able to successfully check and track notebooks in the office. It proved RFID could support PTT's businesses," said Chaicharearn.

jirapan@nationgroup.com

Jirapan Boonnoon

The Nation