Q-Free has been at the forefront of transforming tolling systems across Southern and Western Europe. With innovative solutions for electronic toll collection, we’ve partnered with key markets in Portugal, Spain, and France to drive smarter, more efficient mobility.

In this interview, Luis Miranda, VP for Southern and Western Europe, reflects on Q-Free’s growth, the success stories shaping the future of tolling, and the exciting opportunities ahead for the region.

Q-Free has had a strong presence in Portugal, Spain, and France. Can you share a bit about the company’s history in these markets?

“Q-Free has been a trusted partner in these countries for many years, offering advanced Electronic Toll Collection (ETC) and Multi-Lane Free Flow (MLFF) solutions that allow vehicles to pass through toll points without stopping.

In Portugal, we’ve been pioneers for over 15 years, providing everything from roadside infrastructure to back-office solutions and services.

In Spain, we introduced MLFF in 2018 in the northern region, where we’ve built a dominant market position alongside a trusted local partner.

In France, we’re excited to launch our first MLFF system in 2025, which will include roadside technology, back-office systems, and maintenance services.

On the product side, our toll road hardware, based on Dedicated Short-Range Communications (DSRC) technology—like on-board units (OBUs) and antennas—has seen wide adoption across the region. These products aren’t just for tolling but are also used for parking, access control, and even payment at petrol stations.”

What do you think has driven Q-Free’s success in these markets?

“There are a few key factors. First, the quality and reliability of our solutions. Customers trust us because we consistently deliver products and services that meet their expectations.

Second, our global experience with local presence has been critical. We tailor our solutions to meet the specific needs of each market, and our strong local partnerships and long-term relationships with clients have also been vital.”

Could you highlight some recent success stories?

“Certainly. In addition to our continuous success with our flagship systems on ETC and MLFF, we’ve become one of the leading suppliers of OBUs in France. This recognition underscores our expertise in this area.

Earlier this year, we launched our Intrada Operational Back Office in Portugal, a system that has strengthened our software portfolio and positioned us for further growth.

Through all of these successes, our primary aim remains consistent: to optimize our customers’ business cases and reduce their total cost of ownership.”

What trends are you seeing in the market, and how is Q-Free adapting?

“A key trend is sustainability. As stakeholders focus on reducing emissions and improving safety, Q-Free’s ETC solutions are playing an essential role in optimizing traffic flow and reducing congestion.

We’re also seeing a rise in urban mobility solutions, like low emission zones (LEZ) and congestion charging. These present new opportunities, and our systems are ready to support them.

Additionally, interoperability is becoming crucial as the demand for seamless cross-border tolling grows. Our systems are designed with this in mind, and we’re also focused on data management and cybersecurity to help customers make informed decisions and protect their infrastructure.”

What does the future hold for Q-Free in Southern and Western Europe?

“Though we’ve been operating and innovating in the region for many years, we see great potential ahead. Over the next decade, many road concessions will end, creating opportunities for technology upgrades. Cities are also demanding more advanced solutions to address growing mobility challenges. Our multimodal, scalable, and secure back-office platforms will help customers optimize their operations and prepare for future needs.

We also anticipate the wider deployment of Road User Charging (RUC), which collect tolls based on road usage rather than fixed points. This shift aligns perfectly with our innovation focus, and we’re working to be a key player in this space.

Despite external uncertainties—whether political, economic, or technological—we remain committed to improving our solutions and staying ahead of the curve. The road ahead is exciting, and we’re so excited about being part of an industry that really shapes the future of mobility.”

Thank you so much for the great input, Luis. Any final thoughts?

“I want to take this opportunity to thank our fantastic customers and local partners in Portugal, Spain, and France. We’ve made a significant impact together, and I’m looking forward to continuing this journey and making an even greater difference.”