It sounds like a good idea. Customers can now purchase tickets in advance via an online process. The ticket if you can still call it as that is stored on the USB card. The USB card needs to be plugged in a computer and after purchasing the ticket, fees are automatically deducted from the passengers bank account. In case the USB card is forgotten, the fare will be taken either by an RFID reader or by an attendant.

The project is being called as the Weneo ID smart ticketing program.

The project is being worked upon in France. It all sounds a huge waste of resources to me. Why should it be USB based at all? When shall the west learn from the east which has already implemented smoothly running systems. Japan has its mobile wallets which allow you to shop and travel all over without taking out any cash. These wallets can be within your cell phone or in the form of a RFID card.

The latter is even used in HongKong where they call it the Octopus card. Its incredibly handy and is used by almost all stores as well as the public transport. A simple swipe of your wallet or purse which holds the card ensures that the correct fare is automatically deducted. Refills are done as easily by use of machines or counters at all major points.

The Weneo ID Smart ticketing program is currently being tested and tried on 1,000 passengers. If the pilot is considered a success, it is planned to be implemented by 2010.

Source