From APTA: New Data Shows Major Transit Technology Advances Across North America

The Database includes 155 public transit agencies — 135 operating bus modes and 37 operating rail modes, with some running both. (Photo courtesy of APTA)

The American Public Transportation Association (APTA) recently released its 2025 Public Transportation Vehicle Database, an annual report detailing the bus and rail fleet characteristics of U.S. and Canadian transit agencies. The Database includes 155 public transit agencies — 135 operating bus modes and 37 operating rail modes, with some running both.

“APTA’s Public Transportation Vehicle Database is an indispensable tool for understanding the current state and future direction of our nation’s transit fleets,” APTA President and CEO Paul P. Skoutelas said. “Through this resource, we’re equipping policymakers, including members of Congress and their staffs, with the data they need to make informed decisions about critical public transportation infrastructure and funding needs.

“The 2025 Database reveals impressive adoption rates of advanced technologies across multiple transit modes that directly impact riders and communities. From enhanced security to real-time information systems, agencies are leveraging innovation to create safer, more reliable transportation options.”

Highlights include —

• Safety and Security Enhancements:

• • 87 percent of buses now feature security cameras, providing enhanced protection for passengers and operators.

• • More than 3,000 buses are equipped with pedestrian and bicycle detection systems, representing a major advancement in collision avoidance technology.

• Passenger Experience Improvements:

• • 81 percent of buses and 53 percent of light rail vehicles are equipped with bike racks, facilitating multimodal transportation options.

• • 83 percent of buses feature Wi-Fi connectivity and other passenger amenities.

• Operational Technology:

• • 87 percent of buses and 81 percent of light rail vehicles have installed automatic vehicle location (AVL) systems, enabling accurate real-time arrival predictions.

• • Advanced fleet management systems are now standard across most major transit operations.

The Database provides comprehensive information on transit vehicles, including manufacture date, specifications, accessibility features, and equipment details. The 2025 edition includes several other key features:

• Summary tables grouping vehicles by mode, manufacturer, size, and year built.

• A special section on the new vehicle market, covering orders, planned orders, and vehicle costs.

• Information on several types of autonomous/automated safety equipment such as Collision Mitigation/Warning, Emergency Autonomous Braking, and Pedestrian/Bicyclist Detection.
• Emerging modes adopted by the National Transit Database such as Bus Rapid Transit, Hybrid Rail, Commuter Bus and Streetcar.

APTA’s Public Transportation Vehicle Database and Key Facts Infographic are available for download. Transit agencies, researchers, policymakers, and industry professionals are encouraged to use this resource in their work to improve and expand public transportation services across North America.