The UK’s largest bus, coach and tram operator, Stagecoach, is working with Israeli start-up Optibus to improve services and assist the rollout of its new fleet of electric vehicles.
Optibus’ smart transportation management system is used in over 450 cities globally and its AI, algorithms, and cloud computing help to deliver smarter timetables and networks, while also reducing emissions. The software will enable Stagecoach to adopt improved scheduling and also provide vehicle operators with alternative routes.
Commenting on the new partnership, Optibus CEO Amos Haggiag said “we are thrilled to be partnering with Britain’s biggest bus operator to power a pandemic recovery that puts passenger needs at the forefront while transitioning to a zero-emission fleet – helping us all to breathe easier”.
Last year, Stagecoach introduced Manchester’s first fleet of electric double-decker buses, and is targeting a zero-emissions bus fleet by 2035. The Israeli-made software will reportedly play a key role in this roll out.
Carla Stockton-Jones, UK Managing Director for Stagecoach said that the technology will help the company to “plan the bus networks of the future and ensure that buses continue to play a key role in the country’s [post-pandemic] recovery”.
