The four-day UITP Summit in Hamburg brought together over 10,000 participants from 110 countries and more than 400 exhibitors from the global public transport sector. Under the motto ‘Public transport: the driving force’, key topics such as decarbonisation, resilience, automation and financing sustainable mobility were addressed in numerous sessions, plenaries and discussions. The opening ceremony emphasised the social value of public transport: ‘It’s not just about systems and timetables, it’s about people,’ said UITP President Renée Amilcar. She was unanimously re-elected for a second term (2025-2027), with Gautier Brodeo (RATP Group) as her deputy.
Key topics and highlights:
- Decarbonisation of buses worldwide: International experts emphasised that many transport companies are already in the energy optimisation phase. Success factors depend heavily on the local context. The Shenzhen Bus Group, for example, reported on customised charging and route strategies.
- Partnerships and collaborations: New agreements were concluded with MOIA on the integration of autonomous vehicles and with GIZ on climate and socially responsible mobility development, among others.
- Financing and jobs: Representatives from the World Bank and LAMATA discussed the long-term financing of sustainable mobility, the value of public transport for employment and urban development and the growing importance of active mobility at the ‘Elevate Talks’.
- VDV conference: The German association VDV was part of the programme with its annual conference. President Amilcar emphasised the relevance of infrastructure investment in Germany as the heart of European networking.
- People at the centre: Discussions revolved around automated and shared mobility, the role of passengers and staff as well as training for new technologies. In Rio de Janeiro, for example, the entire bus fleet is being modernised as part of the climate strategy.
- Resilience: Transport chiefs from London and other cities spoke about challenges such as power outages or cyber attacks – and how to strategically prepare for them.
- Health and mobility: The WHO emphasised the positive impact of public transport on public health and highlighted its contribution to healthier cities.
- Future Day and handover: 17 April 2026 will be celebrated as the first ‘World Public Transport Day’. In addition, the next UITP Summit 2026 was ceremoniously handed over to Dubai.
- Voices of young professionals: Two participants in the UITP Future Leaders Programme highlighted the relevance of sessions on autonomous mobility and on-demand services – and called for greater involvement of young voices in transport planning.
- Experience technology & Hamburg live: Technical tours included the autonomous underground railway test track and ferries with a new real-time information system. Hamburg was frequently emphasised as a role model for sustainable urban mobility.
The exhibition
Alstom
At the UITP Summit 2025 in Hamburg (stand A1460), Alstom presented its latest generation of DT6 metro trains for Hamburger Hochbahn – both fully and semi-automated – together with Urbalis Fluence CBTC signalling technology for the new U5 line, which is currently under construction.
- In addition to hardware, there was a strong focus on innovation:
- Virtual experiences showcased Alstom’s comprehensive strategies for decarbonising rail transport, digitalisation and system performance enhancement, and new passenger experience solutions
Anadolu Isuzu
Isuzu shows two fully electric buses with CATL batteries:
- Citivolt (12.03 m, ZF AVE 130 axle drive, up to 495 kWh NMC battery capacity)
- Novociti Volt (7.96 m, TM4 central motor, up to 268 kWh LFP battery capacity)
BYD
The Chinese manufacturer presents the new B13.b, a low-entry intercity bus with:
- Blade battery technology (up to 560 kWh)
- Battery range of up to 700 km
- Passenger capacity for up to 78 passengers
- Length: 13.2 m
- Max speed: 100 km/h
BYD presented the new battery-electric low-entry intercity bus B13.b at the UITP Summit 2025 in Hamburg. The 13.2 metre-long vehicle is based on the advanced blade battery technology (LFP), which is manufactured jointly with BorgWarner. With a maximum battery capacity of 560 kWh, the bus achieves a range of up to 700 kilometres (SORT test) at a top speed of 100 km/h.
Compared to the predecessor model, the capacity has been increased to 78 passengers (including up to 49 seats). The new drive consists of two 150 kW wheel hub motors, controlled by an integrated thermal management system that recovers waste heat and reduces energy consumption by 10 %.
The new cell-to-chassis technology integrates the battery structurally into the chassis. This ensures greater torsional rigidity, a 30% lower centre of gravity and 31% improved tipping stability. Driving behaviour and ride comfort also benefit from this.
Another highlight is the 6-in-1 controller with silicon carbide technology, which combines six central control components in a compact module that is 14 % lighter and 40 % smaller than conventional systems.
Single or double 192 kW charging cables and pantograph charging with up to 500 kW are available for fast charging.
CaetanoBus / CRRC
CaetanoBus announces a new zero-emission series (8.5-18 m, BEV/FCEV), including a BRT model. The buses are based on technology from CRRC, which is also cooperating with Ikarus.
Daimler Buses
Daimler Buses presented solutions for the challenges facing transport companies today and tomorrow at the UITP Summit. The focus was be on sustainability, cost-effectiveness and the digitalisation of electric mobility for city buses. From 2026, the Mercedes-Benz eCitaro will be equipped with a new, even more powerful and particularly long-lasting fourth-generation lithium-nickel-manganese-cobalt battery. For the first time, an eCitaro with such an NMC4 battery will be on display at the UITP Summit. Electromobility, including the planning and realisation of the charging infrastructure, is available ex works from a single source at Daimler Buses, as are the corresponding digital services. Thanks to the new Digital Services Package, new buses and coaches are equipped with digital services right from the start.
World premiere Mercedes-Benz eCitaro with NMC4 battery: The centrepiece of the Daimler Buses stand at the UITP Summit 2025 in Hamburg is a Mercedes-Benz eCitaro, the successful model among electric buses. The two-door solo bus on display not only stands for an exemplary driver’s workplace, recognised high driving comfort and excellent safety. It also represents a world first: for the first time, Daimler Buses is exhibiting an eCitaro with the fourth and therefore latest NMC4 battery generation. The new NMC4 battery generation combines a high energy density, which enables longer ranges, with a very long service life. The battery not only achieves a longer service life with gentle charging with a maximum charging power of 150 kW, but also with regular fast charging processes with up to 300 kW charging power. The new NMC4 batteries will be used in the eCitaro, eCitaro G and eCitaro K from 2026.
Daimler Buses Solutions: all electric mobility from a single source: Daimler Buses Solutions GmbH advises transport companies and actively supports them on their path to electric mobility. The company specialises in consulting, designing and setting up electric mobility infrastructure. In cooperation with the experts at Daimler Buses Solutions GmbH, Daimler Buses can therefore supply the entire e-mobility ecosystem from a single source on request: from the feasibility analysis to the individually configured electric bus to the complete e-mobility infrastructure including construction measures, electrical installations, charging devices, battery storage, charging management system and other digital services.
Omniplus: speed-related geofencing and other new digital services: Omniplus not only has the largest service network in Europe, the network of specialised eBus service points in Europe is also constantly growing. Omniplus is expanding its range of digital services to include additional services for more than just electric buses. For example, all new Daimler Buses buses delivered from this year onwards will receive a so-called Digital Services Package as an option with three years of free use for diesel buses and six years for electric buses. Another new service is Omniplus On monitor location services plus for speed-related geofencing. This can be used to set up zones with restricted maximum speeds. When a bus in the fleet enters such a zone, the vehicle’s speed limiter is automatically activated so that the set maximum speed can no longer be exceeded. This increases safety and helps to avoid fines. The Omniplus On Battery Monitoring system was developed especially for electric buses and provides fleet operators with information on the condition of the high-voltage battery and recommendations for careful handling. The free Warranty Status service provides insights into the warranty status of the battery and helps to avoid potential warranty breaches.
Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn used the UITP Summit 2025 in Hamburg to present pioneering concepts for urban rail passenger transport. The centrepiece was the ‘Ideenzug Urban’, a fully accessible 1:1 model of a modular urban rail vehicle, which was developed under the leadership of DB Regio.
The Urban idea train aims to make urban transport more flexible, more comfortable and more attractive. At the heart of the concept is an innovative interior that can be adapted to the current capacity utilisation or target group at the touch of a button: for example, seating landscapes can be retracted to create space for bicycles, luggage or standing passengers. The space concept is complemented by multifunctional modules, such as an office compartment for commuters with a folding table, screen and power sockets.
Modern information and guidance systems – including LED strips for passenger guidance, digital window films and flexible display solutions – ensure improved orientation and communication in the vehicle. According to DB, the flexible interior concept allows up to 40% more capacity to be achieved at peak times without additional vehicle deployments.
The Idea Train Urban is part of an overall ‘Idea Train’ initiative by Deutsche Bahn, in which new modular space concepts for local transport are being tested in various pilot projects, such as the Idea Train Regio. While the Idea Train Regio is primarily aimed at regional connections, the Idea Train Urban is specifically targeted at highly frequented urban railway systems in metropolitan areas such as Munich, Hamburg and Stuttgart.
With this concept, Deutsche Bahn is clearly positioning itself as a driver of innovation in urban transport – with the aim of making public transport not only more sustainable, but also significantly more user-orientated and intelligent.
DLR
DLR presented numerous pioneering mobility concepts at the UITP Summit 2025: The electric-autonomous vehicle concept U-Shift with modular capsules for passenger and freight transport is being trialled in the IMoGer project, supported by a test fleet for public transport and logistics. With the NGT-TAXI, a small, automated rail vehicle with battery or fuel cell drive, DLR is demonstrating an innovative concept for disused railway lines in rural areas. DLR is also conducting research into sustainable drive systems such as the Fuel Cell and Hybrid Power Pack, which has already been successfully tested in Spain as part of the EU FCH2Rail project.
The SmartTransitFleetplaner planning tool was presented for the integration of autonomous vehicles into public transport. DLR is also working with VITRONIC on the Local Traffic Safety Analyser, a system for increasing safety at junctions, which is already in use in Potsdam. The DLR spin-off atSTAKE offers user-friendly simulation software for strategic transport planning – particularly helpful with limited regional data.
Doppelmayr
Doppelmayr presented the latest solutions for urban ropeway operations with a focus on innovation, sustainability and digital networking. The AURO (Autonomous Ropeway Operation) system, which enables autonomously operated ropeway transport and thus sets new standards in the field of automated mobility, was particularly emphasised.
Another highlight was ESFOR, an intelligent energy storage system that supports the recovery of braking energy, off-grid operation and increased energy efficiency – completely without diesel generators. The presentation was complemented by practical solutions for bicycle transport such as the Bike Cab and the Bike Clip, with which cable cars can contribute to multimodal mobility.
Doppelmayr also presented its digital services, including digital training programmes and maintenance platforms that make operations more efficient and safer. The company is thus clearly positioning itself as a partner for modern ropeway systems integrated into public transport in urban areas.
In addition, the progress of the urban cable car in the greater Paris area, which is due to go into operation at the end of this year, was presented as part of an Expo session. We reported here:
Electreon
Electreon develops innovative inductive charging systems in which coils are embedded in the road surface to supply electric buses and heavy commercial vehicles with electrical energy wirelessly. The vehicles are equipped with receiver coils under the chassis, allowing energy to be transferred while driving (‘dynamic charging’) or when stationary at bus stops (‘static charging’).
The charging capacity of the systems is typically between 50 and 200 kW per charging point. This power is sufficient to continuously recharge buses in regular service, eliminating the need for larger batteries and long charging times in depots. The efficiency of the energy transfer is around 85 to 90 per cent, which makes the technology comparable to wired charging systems.
Pilot projects in Haifa (Israel) with electric buses and test installations for lorries in Sweden have demonstrated the practicality of the technology. Further installations are located in Detroit (USA) and several European cities. The system complies with the SAE J2954 standard, which promotes compatibility with other inductive charging systems and manufacturers.
An important advantage is the ‘Charging as a Service’ business model, which means that local authorities or operators do not have to make high upfront investments in infrastructure or operation. Electreon takes care of planning, installation, maintenance and operation, while customers pay a usage-based fee. The investment costs for a charging zone are in the low to mid six-figure range (USD), depending on the design, which is often economically advantageous for operators compared to the construction of extensive depot infrastructures.
Continuous charging while driving means that battery capacities can be designed smaller, which reduces vehicle weight and costs. It also minimises range anxiety and increases fleet availability. The technology therefore offers a flexible and sustainable solution for local public transport and heavy goods transport in urban environments.
eVersum
eVersum presented its modular, autonomy-capable eShuttle – a fully electric low-floor vehicle for urban scheduled and on-demand transport. The approximately 6.90 metre long shuttle is specially designed for applications in city traffic, depots or airports and will go into operation at the end of 2025 as part of the ‘ahoi’ research project together with vhh.mobility and IAV in Hamburg-Harburg.
The vehicle offers space for nine seats as well as a wheelchair or pushchair area; depending on the configuration, larger variants with up to 20 seats or 50 passengers in total are also possible. The eShuttle is prepared for autonomous operation at SAE level 4 and utilises software solutions such as the Oxa Driver system and a comprehensive set of sensors. The first autonomous eShuttle has already been realised with ZF as part of the RABus project.
Technically, the vehicle is based on an electric axle drive with integrated transmission. The batteries with capacities between 42 and 236 kWh – depending on the model and range requirement – are housed in the vehicle floor to save space. A 22 kW onboard charger and pantograph fast-charging systems are available as charging options. A fuel cell range extender with up to 22 kW can be integrated as an option.
In addition to the German deployment, a larger autonomous shuttle project is also planned in Belfast, Northern Ireland: Up to 40 eShuttles are to be used in the tourism and innovation district around the Titanic Quarter.
With the eShuttle, eVersum is positioning itself as a provider of flexible, sustainable and future-proof mobility solutions for public transport.
Forsee Power
Forsee Power is Europe’s leading supplier of battery systems for e-buses and has currently equipped over 4,200 e-buses, including more than 1,200 with the modular ZEN Plus. This NMC pouch pack type (74-84 kWh) achieves an outstanding energy density of around 180 Wh/kg and a service life of up to 5,000 charging cycles. The ZEN 42 follows in the ‘High-Energy’ series with around 20 % more energy density than its predecessor, the ZEN 35 – at 147 Wh/kg and capacities of up to 460 kWh – and enables ranges of around 300 km in line operation, e.g. with the Iveco/Heuliez GX 337 Elec.
For specific charging profiles, Forsee Power also offers the Pulse 15 series for fast charging requirements with a power density of around 488 W/kg in the 15 kWh module, as well as the ZEN 35 series for daytime operation (around 130 Wh/kg). All production takes place at the new plant in Poitiers (France), which currently has a capacity of 1 GWh/year and is to be expanded to 4 GWh by 2027 – enough for over 10,000 e-buses per year. The Foresee Power stand offered a tour of the various battery form factors I © Foresee Power
The focus is not only on vehicle equipment, but also on financing concepts such as battery leasing (‘Battery as a Service’) and second-life applications, such as energy storage for grid balancing projects in the UK using used ZEN 35/42 systems.
Foton
Foton AUV presented two key innovations at the trade fair:
- BJ6605: a 6 metre long autonomous city shuttle without a driver’s cab, equipped with sensors for autonomous driving (‘last-mile’ use)
- BJ6129: a 12 metre long, fully electric bus chassis with three doors and an electric drive – developed as a flexible platform for bodybuilders worldwide.
Foton also presented road-based charging technologies, energy management systems and batteries – part of its strategy to establish electromobility in CEE regions.
With regard to the broad production spectrum, Foton can point to impressive references: Over 18,000 buses are in use in Beijing, many of them electric and established as microsystems. The company also supplied 312 electric buses to Madagascar, customised to local requirements and environmental conditions.
Hayden AI
Hayden AI is a US provider of automated bus lane enforcement. Hayden AI’s automated transit zone enforcement solutions use AI-driven, bus-mounted cameras to enable transit authorities to automatically detect illegal parking and driving in bus lanes, as well as illegal parking at bus stops. The information detected by our solution is forwarded to parking enforcement agencies so that they can issue warnings in compliance with data protection regulations – changing driver behaviour and keeping bus stops and bus lanes clear for passengers.
- Reduces accidents by up to 30 %
- Pilot project underway in Tallinn, Estonia
Holon
At the UITP Global Public Transport Summit 2025 in Hamburg, HOLON presented its autonomous HOLON Urban shuttle with a completely redesigned interior. The barrier-free shuttle offers space for up to 15 passengers, runs on electricity and reaches speeds of up to 60 km/h.
The highlight at the stand was the new interior: materials from the public transport sector enable easy cleaning and maintenance, while high-contrast handrails and visual and acoustic signals based on the two-senses principle offer all passengers – including people with visual impairments – better orientation. Wheelchair ramps and safe standing areas make the shuttle particularly user-friendly.
HOLON, a joint venture between the Benteler Group and TASARU Mobility, is using Hamburg as the starting point for its first real pilot operation. From August 2025, the shuttle will be tested on public roads as part of the ALIKE project together with Hamburger Hochbahn. Under the leadership of new CEO Markus Schlitt, the company is preparing for series production and market entry.
With the HOLON Urban, the company is not only showcasing a technically mature, passionately developed autonomous on-demand shuttle, but is also providing a glimpse into the future of safe, inclusive and emission-free public transport.
Higer
In Hamburg, the Chinese manufacturer is presenting a two-door version of its battery-powered Fencer F1 Integral EV that has been customised for the German market – the vehicle is marketed by Scania. The 12.50 metre-long low-floor bus with a central engine is equipped with LFP (lithium iron phosphate) batteries from CATL, which offer a total capacity of 440 kWh.
HVV
The Hamburg Transport Association (HVV) presented a visionary talking bus stop. The digitalised system is equipped with an AI-controlled avatar that provides passengers with information on timetables, routes and tickets in several languages. The info point is operated via a screen, with the answers being played over loudspeakers or transferred to a smartphone via a QR code – ideal for people without an app or mobile device.
The innovation could replace travel centres in the future – especially in medium-sized cities such as Cologne, where many info points are no longer needed. HVV Managing Director Anna-Theresa Korbutt is planning to set up such a voice-enabled stop as early as next year. Cooperation with federal states such as North Rhine-Westphalia is already being planned.
INIT
In Hamburg, INIT presented a suite of smart IT solutions that specifically address the increasing staff shortage in transport companies. In addition to the acute shortage of drivers, the retirement of many experienced colleagues in control centres and depots is leading to knowledge gaps that INIT is compensating for with innovative software: Intelligent assistance systems on on-board devices help new drivers to familiarise themselves more quickly – supported by intuitive, smartphone-like user interfaces, multilingual user guidance and AI-based translations of control centre messages. At the same time, automated functions make routine tasks easier and improve working conditions overall, which increases employee satisfaction and reduces staff turnover and absenteeism.
The MOBILE-PERDIS duty scheduling system offers additional flexibility: it enables drivers to submit shift requests via PC or smartphone and at the same time ensures fair and rule-compliant deployment planning thanks to automated rule checks. The MOBILE-DMS depot management system also integrates electromobility processes by checking charging statuses, allocating parking spaces and automatically dispatching replacement buses in the event of charging failures – without any additional work for staff. The systems are hosted in secure German data centres with high availability and the latest cybersecurity standards – allowing transport companies to focus on managing their core processes while INIT reliably takes care of IT operations.
Iveco Bus
Iveco Bus präsentierte den E-WAY 12 m mit virtuellem Mixed-Reality-Erlebnis Themen am Stand:
- Electromobility consulting (Energy Mobility Solutions)
- Digitals Services (IVECO ON)
- Participation in the forum on operational optimisation with BEV
JBM
The Indian manufacturer JBM EV presented its new JBM E-Verse platform as part of a major roll-out at the UITP Summit 2025 in Hamburg. It combines charging infrastructure, battery technology, energy management and services – with the aim of enabling operation without downtime.
As part of its expansion in Europe, JBM has opened its European headquarters in Frankfurt. Sales, marketing, customer service and partnerships for the entire region will be coordinated there. Daniel Frade will be in charge. In Germany, a partnership was concluded with KazenMaier as a leasing partner, which provides for the deployment of over 100 electric buses including charging infrastructure.
According to JBM, it already has over 11,000 electric buses in operation or under contract worldwide. Production takes place at the company’s own plant in India with a capacity of 20,000 vehicles per year – the largest outside of China, according to JBM.
The vehicles presented at the UITP are EU-homologated and available in four model variants with configurable equipment. Particularly noteworthy is the JBM Ecolife, which offers a comprehensive package of safety and assistance systems:
- ADAS, AEBS, lane departure and collision warning systems
- MOIS for pedestrian and cyclist detection
- 360° camera monitoring, early fire detection and extinguishing system (FDSS), cybersecurity
- Driver fatigue detection, alcohol interlock preparation and Intelligent Speed Assistance
According to Nishant Arya, Vice Chairman of the JBM Group, the company aims to set new standards for intelligent, safe and sustainable mobility with its solutions. In the next three to four years, JBM aims to transport over 20 billion passengers and achieve 3 billion electric kilometres.
Karsan
At the UITP Summit 2025 in Hamburg, Turkish manufacturer Karsan announced that its hydrogen bus equipped with Toyota fuel cell modules will be available from the fourth quarter of 2025. At the same time, the new e-ATA LE, a fully-electric low-entry bus for long-distance urban transport (class 2), celebrated its world premiere, and according to Nishant Arya, Vice Chairman of the JBM Group, the company aims to set new standards for intelligent, safe and sustainable mobility with its solutions. In the next three to four years, JBM aims to transport over 20 billion passengers and achieve 3 billion electric kilometres.
The e-ATA LE offers up to 528 kWh battery capacity (in four variants) and is powered by a ZF AxTrax engine. It can accommodate up to 90 passengers, 41 of whom are seated, all facing in the direction of travel.
With this model, Karsan is specifically expanding its electric portfolio to include solutions for the fast-growing intercity transport sector. In the first quarter of 2025, the company achieved a market share of 6.2% for electric buses in Europe, putting it in 6th place. 2,000 Karsan buses are in operation in 27 countries. In 2024, the company sold 540 e-buses, which corresponds to growth of +45% compared to 2023. To date, 470 units of the e-ATA series have been sold, 177 of which have already been delivered.
Karsan presented three vehicles at the UITP Summit: the e-JEST, the autonomous e-ATAK and the new e-ATA LE. The e-JEST has been the best-selling electric city minibus in Europe for five years in a row. The e-ATAK is the world’s first level 4 autonomous bus in regular operation; Karsan currently operates 13 autonomous projects in 12 countries.
MAN Truck & Bus
In Hamburg, MAN Truck & Bus presented two strategic priorities for the urban bus transport of the future: the entry into automated passenger transport and a new battery generation developed in-house for the Lion’s City E series.
Focus on automated driving by 2030: MAN has announced its intention to launch a fully automated city bus on the market by 2030. This is based on extensive experience from projects such as MINGA (Munich’s automated local transport), in which an electrically powered Lion’s City E with an automated driver assistance system (ADS) is to be tested in real urban traffic from 2026 – initially with a safety driver on board. This commitment is complemented by other pilot projects such as @CITY and BeIntelli in Berlin, where an autonomous electric bus equipped with 60 sensors is being trialled along central routes.
The aim is to gradually work towards SAE Level 4 automation – i.e. driverless operation in clearly defined areas. According to MAN Head of Strategy Michael Roth, the company is not only responding to technological developments, but also to structural challenges in public transport, such as driver shortages and growing mobility requirements in urban and rural areas.
New generation of batteries from in-house production: MAN also presented a comprehensive product update for its Lion’s City E electric bus series. The 2025 models will be equipped with a new generation of NMC lithium-ion batteries, which will be produced at the Nuremberg plant. The batteries are more powerful, more compact and lighter than before and can be configured on a modular basis:
- 12-metre buses: 4 or 5 packages (356 or 445 kWh)
- 18-metre articulated buses: 6 or 7 packages (534 or 623 kWh)
- 10-metre version: 4 packages (356 kWh)
Two battery utilisation strategies enable either a maximum range of up to 380 km or a particularly long service life of up to 14 years or one million kilometres. According to the manufacturer, 96% of the batteries are recyclable and production is also resource-friendly.
Successful market position: With 283 electric buses sold in Europe in the first quarter of 2025, MAN already achieved an electric share of over 50% of its total city bus sales. Since the launch of the Lion’s City E in 2019, over 2,500 vehicles have been sold, which together have travelled more than 100 million kilometres emission-free.
With the innovations presented, MAN Truck & Bus is emphasising its claim to set technological standards in the field of electromobility and automation – both in terms of efficiency and the long-term transformation of urban mobility.
Masats
Spanish manufacturer presents new ramps and door systems, including
- RE2b ramp (more width)
- 029g2 door (easy, wide passage)
- RD1 dual ramp (electric & manual)
- 028d door with PIS integration
MCV
MCW displayed two bus models:
- C127EV (12 m, 385 kWh, Forsee traction batteries)
- C107EV (10.6 m, lighter, 1 battery module less)
MND Ropeways
At the UITP Global Public Transport Summit 2025 in Hamburg, French manufacturer MND Ropeways presented its new ORIZON™ urban ropeway system, which has been specially developed for urban mobility applications. The ORIZON™ system is a detachable gondola lift with a high transport capacity of up to 8,000 passengers per hour and direction, compact stations and a modular design that can be easily integrated into existing urban landscapes. Thanks to its low carbon footprint and small footprint, MND is aimed specifically at cities looking for sustainable, space-saving transport options.
The Cabline® system was also presented – a fully automatic, driverless cable car system with speeds of up to 45 km/h, which was developed in collaboration with the French environmental agency ADEME. Both solutions illustrate MND’s endeavours to make innovative cable car technologies usable for local public transport.
MND has extensive experience in the construction and operation of ropeway infrastructure and has realised over 800 installations in 40 countries worldwide. Reference projects include the urban cable car in Huy, Belgium (in operation since 2021) and a CO₂-neutral project in Saint-Denis on La Réunion, which is powered by solar energy. As part of its innovation strategy, MND is investing over 20 million euros in the development of the ORIZON™ system and has already registered more than ten patents in the field of urban cable car technology.
At the UITP Summit, MND representatives also took part in expert panels on the urban mobility transition and emphasised the potential of ropeways as a complementary solution for heavily congested public transport networks – especially where topographical, infrastructural or space-related hurdles restrict traditional modes of transport.
Optibus
Optibus presented its AI-supported platform for optimising public transport operations. The company showed how its solutions integrate real-time monitoring, operational optimisation, strategic planning and fleet electrification to improve efficiency, service quality and sustainability. Visitors experienced live demonstrations of features such as the AI preference generator for driver dispatching, real-time operations management and strategic network planning tools. Optibus also showcased its partnerships with Snapper Services and Dhemax, emphasising the benefits of a unified platform that combines historical, predictive and real-time performance data. The company also provided personalised demonstrations and discussions on tailored solutions for transport operators and companies. We recently reported on the collaboration between Optibus and Snapper Services in the following interview:
Siemens
The focus at the Siemens Mobility stand was on digital signalling technology, cloud-based vehicle management and intelligent charging stations for electric buses and trucks. Siemens exhibited, among other things:
- Train2Cloud – a cloud-based CBTC system with Safety Integrity Level 4 (‘DS3’ platform) that enables headways of up to 80 seconds
- Signaling X – central cloud platform for main and urban traffic signalling, with proven efficiency gains of up to 20% and up to 30% energy savings with ATO over ETCS
- Digital Station – integrated station management to reduce lifecycle costs by up to 20%
- RailXplore – asset monitoring tool for real-time data and predictive maintenance
Solaris
At this year’s UITP Global Public Transport Summit in Hamburg (15-18 June 2025), Solaris presented its Urbino 12 electric with modular drive architecture. The innovative model was presented for the first time at Mobility Move 2024 in Berlin and is characterised by the elimination of the classic engine tower – resulting in a significantly larger passenger compartment.
Thanks to the new vehicle concept, all batteries are located on the roof. The next battery generation with over 600 kWh capacity enables a range of up to 600 km (according to the eSORT 2 test cycle). The bus fulfils the latest safety and cyber security standards, including the new GSR2 specification, and was awarded the Sustainable Bus Award 2025 in the ‘Urban’ category.
In addition to the vehicle presentation, Solaris actively participated in discussion rounds on the transformation of local public transport, emphasising its claim to be a driving force for sustainable mobility solutions.
Trapeze
Trapeze präsentierte fortschrittliche Lösungen zur Verbesserung der Zugänglichkeit, Nachhaltigkeit und Konnektivität im öffentlichen Verkehr.
V2X Communication for Efficient Traffic Management: Trapeze demonstrated its Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) technology, transitioning from traditional traffic light preemption to a bidirectional traffic light phase assistant. This innovation facilitates real-time communication between vehicles and infrastructure, optimizing traffic flow and significantly reducing energy consumption for traction.
INTROS: Mobility Assistance for All: The INTROS (Independent Traveling Orientation System) app, developed in collaboration with the Swiss Federation of the Blind (SBV), empowers visually impaired, blind, and mobility-impaired passengers to navigate public transport independently. The app provides real-time information on vehicle arrivals, assists in locating the boarding area, and enables communication with the driver. During the journey, it offers updates on upcoming stops, enhancing the travel experience for passengers with disabilities.
LIO-Volta: Integrating Electric Buses into Control Systems: Trapeze introduced LIO-Volta, a solution designed for the optimal integration of electric buses into control systems. LIO-Volta provides dispatchers with real-time data from vehicles, including alerts for issues such as low energy levels or high battery temperatures, ensuring efficient fleet management.
TRAICY: Advanced Planning and Scheduling: The TRAICY platform offers automated, efficient, and future-oriented solutions for personnel planning and scheduling.Addressing challenges like skill shortages and increasing complexity, TRAICY enables transport companies to optimize operations and improve service delivery.
Trapeze’s participation at the UITP Summit highlighted its commitment to fostering a connected, accessible, and sustainable public transport ecosystem. For more information on Trapeze’s solutions, visit their website.
VDL
VDL Bus & Coach presented its all-electric Citea LF-181 New Generation articulated bus from Bordeaux. The 18.1 metre long bus has a battery-powered electric motor with a capacity of 552 kWh, which is integrated into the vehicle floor. This gives the articulated bus a range of up to 600 kilometres according to the eSORT 2 test procedure. The Citea LF-181 offers space for up to 134 passengers, including 35 seats, and boasts a lightweight construction with composite materials on the side walls, which reduces the vehicle weight and increases efficiency.
An initial 36 vehicles have been ordered for the new Bus Rapid Transit route between Bordeaux Gare Saint-Jean and Saint-Aubin-de-Médoc, which are due to go into operation from 2024. A total of 40 buses of this type have been ordered to date, with further expansion of the fleet planned. In addition to the vehicles, VDL is also supplying the complete charging infrastructure, including pantographic fast-charging systems at the terminal stops and depot charging facilities.
With this appearance, VDL is emphasising its position as a leading provider of zero-emission electric mobility in public transport. The Citea LF-181 combines a long range, high passenger capacity and modern lightweight construction, making it ideal for demanding commuter transport.
Voith
Under the motto ‘Driven by Efficiency’, Voith focussed on sustainable and efficient drive systems. The Diwa 8 automatic transmission, the LP 725 and LP 490 air compressors and the Diwa Smartnet telemetry system were particularly emphasised.
The Diwa 8 automatic transmission was specially developed to meet the increasing demand for clean and economical vehicles in public transport. It is characterised by a topography-dependent shift programme called Senso Top, which, in conjunction with intelligent start-up management and automatic neutral shifting, enables fuel savings of up to five percent. This transmission is already being used by various European operators, including Wiener Linien and several Belgian transport companies.
The LP 725 and LP 490 air compressors from Voith are manufactured in a lightweight design and are used in coaches and city buses with the latest generation of Daimler engines. Thanks to their two-stage principle, they save up to 1 litre of diesel fuel per 100 kilometres. Since 2012, over 100,000 of these compressors have already been produced and used in buses and trucks worldwide.
The Diwa Smartnet is a telemetry system that enables needs-based maintenance of vehicles. It monitors various vehicle components in real time, helping to reduce downtime and operating costs.
These technologies emphasise Voith’s commitment to the sustainable and efficient design of local public transport.
Worldline
Worldline presented solutions from the field of mobile, contactless and networked payment in public transport, with a clear focus on open-loop payment systems.
The focus was on the Tap 2 Use Open Payment Platform – an account-based and contactless payment method that enables payments by bank card or smartphone (e.g. Google Pay) directly on site. This technology improves flexibility for passengers and simplifies revenue management for operators.
Worldline also showed how artificial intelligence and machine learning can be used to optimise operational processes in rail transport. This was explained in an expo session: ‘How Worldline’s AI and Machine Learning Innovations are Revolutionising Service Delivery’.
With these solutions, Worldline emphasised its role as a partner for seamless digital transformation, making local and long-distance public transport fit for the future through contactless payment, AI-supported analyses and modular ticketing services.
Yutong
Chinese bus manufacturer Yutong showcased several advanced electric models, including the new IC12E battery-electric intercity bus and the U12, which completed an impressive test drive from Norway to Hamburg shortly before the UITP.
IC12E – The new intercity electric bus: The IC12E is an all-electric bus specially designed for intercity transport. It is characterised by a modern design, a comfortable interior and a long range, which makes it ideal for long-distance transport between cities. The bus was presented for the first time at the UITP Summit 2025 and will be offered in Germany and other European markets.
The European electric bus U12: Yutong also presented its all-electric U12 city bus, which was specially developed for the European market. The 12-metre-long low-floor bus is already in regular service in Utrecht. It has a battery capacity of 422 kWh and thus achieves a range of around 432 kilometres according to SORT2. The bus offers space for up to 75 passengers and is equipped with modern driver assistance systems such as BusEYE Pro and a networked safety system.
The U12 has also proven itself under extreme conditions: In northern Norway, it successfully completed a 105-kilometre winter test at temperatures as low as -33 °C with an energy consumption of just 1.56 kWh/km. In addition, the vehicle has already been used in Tallinn (Estonia) as part of a pilot project. This underlines Yutong’s growing presence in Europe with an e-bus that is suitable for everyday use, reliable and technologically advanced.
Further developments and experience: Yutong has delivered more than 190,000 fully electric buses worldwide, which have travelled a total of over 44 billion kilometres. In Norway, one of the most advanced markets for electric mobility, Yutong now operates 331 electric buses, including models such as the U12, which have been specially developed for use in extremely cold climates. These vehicles have special heating systems, reinforced bodies and IP68-certified electronics that make them suitable for operation in temperatures as low as -33 °C.
ZF
ZF showcased a range of technologies designed to drive public transport stability, cleanliness, and intelligence under the theme “safe and emission-free through the city.”Highlights included:
- CeTrax 2 electric central drive: delivering 210 kW continuous power and 8 720 Nm torque—ideal for buses up to 19 t
- AxTrax 2 LF low-floor e-axle: offering ~20 % lower energy use compared to its predecessor, cutting operating costs
- e-comp Scroll air compressor: oil‑free, low-noise spiral design reducing maintenance needs on e-buses
- Citybus CMS, an ADAS-based brake-assist system (part of OnGuardMAX): actively warns and brakes to protect standing passengers during emergencies
- ZF Bus Connect, a digital fleet-management platform: enables uptime monitoring, remote diagnostics, and condition-based analytics of drivetrains and batteries
- Autonomous and digital mobility solutions: showcased via ZF Mobility Solution, supporting cities and operators with engineering services for level-4 automation and driverless-bus programs
