A new project between the Welsh government and collaborative partners will trial combining satellite and onboard solutions to improve internet connectivity on public transportation in rural parts of the Swansea Bay area.
Getting good internet connectivity on public transport can be difficult rural areas where obstructions such as tree canopies and valleys would normally block the signal.
It is hoped that technology used by the StarBws project will overcome this, with a combination of Starlink’s LEO satellites, with Peplink’s network bonding, and wavemobile’s LTE (4G) Band 46 Cell technology. Dragon WiFi is also involved.
The project will provide valuable insights into passengers’ needs as well as how advanced connectivity solutions can address challenges faced by using public transport in rural areas.
The trial began in Autumn 2024 running for a year, will focus on the rural 460 Carmarthen to Cardigan bus service.
Simon Richards, Director at Richards Bros said: “The StarBws project exemplifies our commitment to pioneering new connectivity solutions, ensuring our rural routes are not only reliable but also equipped with the latest in modern communication services.”
The Swansea Bay City Deal is also supporting this initiative with many suppliers keen to partner such as StarBws and build on the progress being made in the Swansea Bay City Region as well as wider parts of Wales.