By the turn of the 21st century, already 25 cities globally had implemented BRT systems. Fast forward to 2022, and worldwide there are 191 cities with operating BRT systems, with 76 BRTs opening in the last 10 years.
And BRT keeps innovating. In recent years, BRT systems worldwide have increasingly incorporated zero-emission buses, while advancements in automation, integration with other modes and other ITS technologies have further advanced bus operations, adding modern and high-quality service for citizens next to its important environmental and sustainability benefits.
Towards a European concept for BRT
To further unleash the potential of BRT systems and electric mobility around the globe, the eBRT2030 project was launched in 2023 to demonstrate the applicability of a new generation of (E)BRT systems in different urban contexts with innovative solutions such as automation and connectivity. Under the helm of UITP, the EU-project brings together 49 partners from across the sector.
The letter ‘E’ in its name is twofold: it stands for electric but also for European, pointing at both the innovations that the project will carry out as well as to the focus on the European context and needs.