The Transport Act 2000 created powers under which local authorities can introduce congestion charging of road users and recycle the revenues into multi-modal transport schemes. In support of this, the UK's Department for Transport (DfT) has embarked upon an ambitious research program to develop a suite of specifications to support local authorities wishing to introduce congestion charging schemes utilizing electronic road user charging (RUC) technologies. Having sought to learn, from other implementations around the world, the emphasis is to develop a suite of specifications that encompass the definition of functions and performance for a complete end-to-end system, ranging from the definition of on-board equipment (OBE) for users, through to the creation of monthly invoices and penalty charge notices (PCNs). The demonstration of interoperable road user charging and telematics systems (DIRECTS) project, as it is known, will also deliver a microcosm of a complete system requiring the appointed contractor to involve a number of suppliers, who are normally competitors. In a more recent development, the UK Chancellor has announced the intention to introduce a distance-based charging system for all lorries using UK roads. The exact scope of the program was under discussion at the time this paper was prepared. However, it is hoped that relevant technical aspects can be considered as part of DIRECTS and be reported upon more fully at the World Congress. This paper outlines some of the key features of this project and the early work that has been achieved from DfT's viewpoint.
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