The so-called Electric Toll Collection system will begin full-scale operation on March 30 at 600 expressway gates in Tokyo, Chiba, Kanagawa, Saitama and Okinawa prefectures, the Land, Infrastructure and Transport Ministry announced Monday.
The ETC system, which eases traffic by allowing drivers to pass through expressway gates without stopping, calculates tolls automatically by using data transmitted between antennas set at ETC gates and communications equipment mounted on automobiles.
To use the system, drivers must buy a wireless transmitter with a built-in payment card reader. The credit card company-issued cards will be used to identify the driver.
The car-mounted transmitter sends a signal to the gate, allowing drivers to pass through without stopping. The road operator then bills the credit card company.