Priced at RM499 per unit, the LokaTAG reader offers an alternative to the portable MaxTAG launched in October 2018.
LokaTAG is integrated with the vehicle, and connects directly to the vehicle’s battery. It features a long-lasting back-lit display with card error or low credit alert and is compatible with all vehicle models.
The reader marketed by Lokatech is made in collaboration with Efkon, the Austrian technology provider of Malaysia’s nationwide infra-red electronic toll collection system,
In partnership with Shopee Malaysia (www.shopee.com.my), every purchase of LokaTAG reader from the official LokaTAG online store comes with free on-site installation for customers in the Klang Valley, Penang and Johor, along with 0% Easy Payment Plan for an extra RM1.
Customers outside these regions can install their LokaTAG reader for free at selected authorised dealers.
According to Efkon Asia Sdn Bhd director Helmuth Blasch, brisk sales of the MaxTAG reader since its launch last year and increasing orders from car manufacturers for built-in toll card readers indicated a strong demand from motorists for the infra-red system.
“Market response to the portable MaxTAG reader has been excellent with average monthly sales of about 12,000 units. As for our built-in toll card readers, we have five car brands featuring our products with more coming onboard soon. The combined total monthly sales of the portable and built-in units are about 25,000 units,” he said.
Lokatech Engineering Sdn Bhd general manager Ng Shyh Kang said the aftermarket potential for its readers is high.
“LokaTAG is the first and only authorised built-in toll card reader for the aftermarket and we believe there is a high number of car owners who will appreciate the peace of mind and convenience of a seamless ride. For a start, we are targeting sales of about 1,000 units a month,” he said.
Blasch said Efkon is working to enhance the features of the readers, including equipping them with Bluetooth connectivity and voice alert capability in the future.
Bluetooth connectivity will enable users to interact with the electronic toll card readers using devices such as smartphones and car audio systems.
“We expect the infra-red electronic toll collection system to continue playing a significant role in this country for years to come. It has proven to be the most reliable, efficient, convenient and cost-effective cashless toll collection system in facilitating multi-lane traffic flow on Malaysian highways,” he said.
Developed in 1997 and rolled out across the country in 2005, the infra-red toll collection system on Malaysian highways is popularly known as SmartTAG.
However, Touch 'N Go is experimenting with an RFID-based toll collection system, which is opened to the public now. Installation of the RFID device is free
Blasch (left) and Ng launching the LokaTAG reader.
