RALEIGH, N.C. -- Cognizant announced on Monday a strategic partnership with the North Carolina Turnpike Authority (NCTA) to develop and implement a next-generation tolling back-office system. With the first stage under way, this multi-stage engagement aims to deliver a scalable, API-driven architecture that integrates seamlessly with partners including Mastercard and Volvo Car USA.
With Cognizant leading the technology orchestration across all systems, this initiative marks a significant step in NCTA's journey to modernize tolling operations and reduce infrastructure dependency. It aims to eliminate the need for traditional toll transponders, allowing drivers to pay tolls directly through Volvo's infotainment system. Cognizant's IoT and API development capabilities are expected to be central to enabling a successful proof of concept (POC), laying the foundation for infrastructure-less tolling and immediate revenue recognition for NCTA.
"We are excited to collaborate with Cognizant and our other pilot partners to bring our vision of modern, infrastructure-free tolling to life," said James J. Eden, Executive Director of the N.C. Turnpike Authority. "This partnership is a critical milestone in our mission to deliver innovative, customer-centered transportation solutions for North Carolina."
The tolling industry has long been reliant on labor-intensive and capital-heavy systems. NCTA is pioneering a shift toward agile, digital-first tolling models, and Cognizant is proud to support this transformation with its deep expertise in building back-office systems for tolling agencies across the U.S.
"This engagement with NCTA represents a major opportunity to reshape tolling operations in the U.S.," said Vishal Attal, Vice President and Head of Transportation and Logistics business at Cognizant. "With a total addressable market of $1.6 billion in the U.S. alone, we're thrilled to help NCTA lead the way in tolling innovation and deliver measurable outcomes through technology."
