Connected Infrastructure for Electric Buses: Market Set to Surpass €2 Billion by 2029
The “Connected Infrastructure for EV Bus, 3rd Edition” report, recently released by ResearchAndMarkets.com, provides an in-depth look at the rapidly evolving market for intelligent transport systems (ITS) and charging stations in public transportation. With electric bus adoption accelerating in Europe and North America, the supporting infrastructure is now seen as one of the most critical enablers for the next phase of clean mobility.
According to the report, the combined market for EV Bus ITS and charging stations for electric buses across Europe and North America is projected to expand significantly, climbing from €657 million in 2024 to nearly €2 billion by 2029. This represents one of the most dynamic growth stories within the broader electrification of transport.
Growth of Electric Bus Fleets
The foundation for this market expansion is the steady rise in the number of battery-electric buses in operation. Back in 2016, only around 1,000 EV Bus were active in Europe and North America. EV Bus By 2024, this figure had surged to 31,000 units, and the trajectory shows no signs of slowing.
This rapid fleet expansion, while positive, has introduced new challenges for public transport authorities and operators. Limited driving ranges, the need for strategically located charging stations, and the integration of bus depots into smart grids all require the deployment of advanced ITS solutions.
ITS refers to the application of information and communication technologies (ICT) to transport networks and vehicles. For electric buses, this involves a wide array of systems that manage vehicles, drivers, depots, and charging infrastructure—ensuring efficiency, safety, and seamless operations.
Market Outlook: ITS and Charging Stations
The report highlights two primary market segments:
- Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS)
- In Europe, the market for ITS in public transport electric buses is forecast to grow from €110.4 million in 2024 to €359.1 million in 2029, representing a CAGR of 27%.
- North America will grow at a slightly slower pace, from €39.7 million in 2024 to €101.6 million by 2029, reflecting a CAGR of 21%.
- Charging Stations for EV Bus
- In 2024, the market value of charging stations in Europe and North America exceeded €500 million.By 2029, this figure is expected to triple, reaching €1.5 billion, driven by a 24% CAGR.
Key Market Drivers
Several macro trends and industry factors are fueling this growth:
- Urbanization and Congestion: Rising populations in cities demand efficient, low-emission public transport systems.
- Climate Change Commitments: Governments and municipalities are under pressure to cut emissions, with electrified fleets seen as a crucial step.
- Energy Market Dynamics: Despite energy price shocks linked to geopolitical crises like the Russia–Ukraine conflict, the momentum toward electrification has continued.
- Technological Advancements: New software platforms, depot management systems, and vehicle telematics are enabling operators to manage electric fleets with higher precision.
The result is a strong long-term growth outlook, even against a backdrop of economic uncertainty and supply chain disruptions following the COVID-19 pandemic.
Competitive Landscape in ITS
The ITS sector is served by a mix of full-solution providers and specialist vendors:
- Major International Players:
- INIT, IVU, Trapeze, Clever Devices – These companies provide turnkey ITS platforms tailored for electric bus operations.
- EQUANS – Offers CAD/AVL systems deployed across both Europe and North America.
- Telematics and Software Specialists:
- ViriCiti (acquired by ChargePoint in 2021) – Now part of ChargePoint’s portfolio, combining telematics and charging management hardware/software.
- Consat Telematics, FARA, Saga Tenix – Scandinavian providers focusing on real-time monitoring and passenger information.
- GIRO – A Canadian firm with a strong position in scheduling and planning.
- PSI Transcom – Leading in depot and charging management solutions in Europe.
These players compete by offering modular or end-to-end platforms, allowing transit agencies to customize systems for their specific needs.
Electric Bus OEMs and Market Dynamics
EV Bus manufacturers are increasingly integrating ITS functions into their offerings, although strategies differ:
- Europe: The market is diverse, with Yutong (China) leading in registrations in 2024. Other major players include Mercedes-Benz, Wrightbus, Iveco Bus, BYD, Solaris, and TRATON Group.
- North America: New Flyer dominates, alongside Gillig, Phoenix Motor, BYD, and Nova Bus.
These OEMs not only compete on vehicle performance but also on connectivity and integration capabilities, as operators demand holistic fleet management solutions.
Charging Infrastructure Leaders
The charging station segment is led by a number of global technology providers, including:
- ABB E-mobility
- Siemens (with Heliox)
- Kempower
- Ekoenergetyka
- Efacec
- BTC Power
- SBRS (Shell Group)
These companies are innovating in high-power charging systems, depot management solutions, and opportunity charging technologies. Connected charging stations are increasingly vital, enabling real-time monitoring, demand response, and integration with local power grids.
Strategic Insights from the Report
The report provides a broad set of insights to stakeholders:
- Market Forecasts: Detailed 5-year projections, with market value rising to €2 billion by 2029.
- Executive Insights: Interviews with 30 industry leaders offering perspectives on adoption trends.
- Value Chain Analysis: Comprehensive mapping of ITS providers, OEMs, and charging vendors.
- Case Studies: Twelve real-world projects, including deployments by RATP (France), TTC (Canada), BVG (Germany), and MTA (USA).
- Technology Roadmaps: Analysis of standards, interoperability issues, and cybersecurity considerations.
Challenges and Future Trends
While the market outlook is positive, several challenges remain:
- Energy Supply: Large electric bus depots will increasingly stress local grids, necessitating energy management systems and centralized power cabinets.
- Cybersecurity: Connected fleets introduce new risks that operators and vendors must address.
- Interoperability: Industry-wide standards for charging and ITS integration remain critical.
- Policy Shifts: Changes in government support, particularly in the US, may influence adoption rates.
Despite these challenges, the direction of travel is clear: public transport electrification is accelerating, and infrastructure investment will play a central role.
The Connected Infrastructure for Electric Buses report underscores that Europe and North America are at the cusp of a major transformation in public transport. By 2029, the combined ITS and charging station market will surpass €2 billion, driven by policy commitments, fleet expansion, and technological innovation.
For stakeholders—whether bus OEMs, ITS providers, charging infrastructure companies, or public transport agencies—this represents both an opportunity and a call to action. Investments made today in connectivity, interoperability, and smart infrastructure will shape the success of electric bus fleets for decades to come.
