After all this time – nearly four years past the predicted opening date – the Elizabeth line is finally getting started TODAY (May 24). Yes, really.
To celebrate the launch of the high speed Crossrail, TfL are releasing a set of limited edition Oyster Cards, because who doesn’t want to mark the speedy journey times with some merch and memorabilia?
Even the many who now opt for the contactless method of payment might well be tempted by one of these beauties, with a matching pattern of the seats on the suave new line. Keen collectors will know that this is the 5th limited edition Oyster card, with others including designs for the 2012 Olympics and 2011 royal wedding.
How can I get an Elizabeth line Oyster card?
Alright, alright — we’ll get to the point now. To celebrate the opening day of service for the Elizabeth line, these special cards will be dispensed from the machines at all stations opening on the line, as well as all zone 1 stops and Heathrow Airport.
Like a standard Oyster card, they’ll set you back five quid plus any credit you wish to add. There will be 1.2 million cards available, so you might think getting one will be a breeze, but since around 2 million people are thought to use the tube every day, you just never know. It’s first come, first served so you might need to be speedy!
Shashi Verma, TfL’s Chief Technology Officer and Director of Strategy, said: “We are delighted to celebrate the brand new line coming to London and this moquette-inspired Oyster card is a wonderful way to commemorate the first new railway line through London in a generation.
“The Elizabeth line will transform how millions of people travel through the capital and beyond and we are looking forward to seeing customers using these limited edition cards as they enjoy all of what London has to offer.”
Passengers should note that no Oyster cards can be used between West Drayton and Reading on the Elizabeth line stations. TfL is looking into setting up Oyster card access on the entire line at a later date.