OCTO.CAB approached us with a request to develop a compact data terminal that complies with strict regulations for taxi and transport companies. How did we manage to design and deliver a hardware solution that meets all regulatory demands while remaining user-friendly?
Who is Our Client?
OCTO.CAB was founded in 2019 by a visionary group of entrepreneurs who identified a market opportunity in data terminals. The name OCTO.CAB is no coincidence – it references the octopus strategy, using multiple approaches to solve challenges. Each arm of the octopus represents a different aspect of their service: from user interface and hardware design to system integration and legal compliance.
The company’s primary motivation was a legislative change in the Netherlands: as of January 1, 2025, all taxis must be connected in real time to the servers of the Dutch Human Environment and Transport Inspectorate (ILT). The market at that time was dominated by a few major players tightly integrated with software providers, making entry difficult for new players.
From the start, OCTO.CAB focused on the practical needs of end users. Luuk Soentjens, who oversaw product development, drew on his extensive industry experience and knew exactly what the market required: a compact, easy-to-install device with intuitive controls requiring minimal training.
What Did the Client Ask Us For?
OCTO.CAB had a clear vision for a data terminal designed for taxi and logistics companies but needed a partner with the expertise to develop the hardware component. They turned to us to transform their concept into a fully functional, certified device ready for the European market.
Technical Requirements
The client’s concept involved two main components:
- Main unit – Hidden inside the vehicle, connected to its data and power infrastructure.
- Display unit – Mounted on the dashboard within easy reach of the driver.
The system needed to meet the following technical requirements:
- 24/7 operational reliability
- Resistance to automotive conditions (vibrations, temperature fluctuations)
- Secure data communication
- Compact size for easy installation
- Energy efficiency
Regulatory Compliance
The device also had to meet stringent legislative standards, requiring:
- EMC (Electromagnetic Compatibility) certification
- Electrical safety certification
- Verification of thermal and climate resistance
- E8 vehicle homologation for use in motor vehicles
User-Friendliness
Beyond technical specs, OCTO.CAB emphasized user-friendliness. The terminal needed to offer:
- Intuitive operation without lengthy training
- A modern user interface
- Customization options (aligned with the customer’s brand identity)
- Seamless integration with MaaS (Mobility as a Service) systems
For us, this was a complex task that required combining cutting-edge hardware design, compliance with all technical and certification requirements, and practical usability for everyday drivers.
Our Solution
We turned the client’s vision into reality — developing an intelligent data terminal for the future of taxi services. Thanks to our innovative approach and years of experience in embedded systems, the result exceeded expectations.
Smaller, More Powerful, More Durable
We completely redesigned the main unit, resulting in:
- Size reduced by dozens of percent across all dimensions
- Easier placement even in tight vehicle spaces
- Advanced cooling for long-term reliable operation
As for the display unit, we kept the external design but radically reworked the internal structure:
- Strengthened mechanical structure for secure mounting
- Optimized heat dissipation for extended durability
- Improved EMC/EMI characteristics
- Simplified assembly and servicing
Manufacturing Transformation
We also reengineered the production process, which led to:
- Significantly lower manufacturing costs
- Improved EMC/EMI performance without compromising functionality
We designed connectors with practicality in mind — five strategically placed connection points on the main unit enable quick installation and minimal cabling.
Comprehensive Certification
The final product passed all rigorous testing to confirm its readiness for real-world deployment:
- Electromagnetic compatibility
- Electrical safety
- Resistance to temperature extremes
- Mechanical durability
- E8 homologation for automotive use
A Terminal Ready for the Future
Our solution delivers a complete package prepared for upcoming legislation:
- Ultra-compact dimensions – Easier installation in all vehicle types
- Intuitive interface – No lengthy driver training required
- Secure and stable data communication – Reliable connection with authorities
- Custom branding support – Personalization for fleet identity
- Seamless MaaS integration – Compatible with future mobility platforms
OCTO.CAB now has a device that maximizes user value while meeting all regulatory demands in the Netherlands.
What Does OCTO.CAB Say About the Collaboration?
The OCTO.CAB terminal now represents a revolution in taxi service digitalization. It’s not just about meeting regulations — it’s about transforming the entire industry. Since completing the development phase, we’ve also taken over serial production, allowing OCTO.CAB to fully focus on expanding across the European market.
“Originally, we were just looking for a hardware supplier, but we gained a technology partner. The engineers at Compteq achieved what we thought was impossible – they reduced the main unit’s size by 40% while improving cooling and connectivity. Now we can install the terminal even in the latest car models, where every centimeter counts.”
— Luuk Soentjens, Co-founder of OCTO.CAB
