Urban public transport systems worldwide are evolving to meet the demands of modern cities, where sustainability, efficiency, and accessibility are paramount. Among the range of public transport modes, trolleybuses represent a unique blend of historical significance and contemporary relevance. This brief, prepared by UITP with the Trolleybus Committee in the driver seat, provides a global data collection, a state of play and an in-depth analysis of the current state of trolleybus networks globally, focusing on the big numbers, facts and figures.
Trolleybuses offer an emission-free alternative to traditional buses, aligning closely with global efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote sustainable development. As cities increasingly prioritise cleaner energy sources and decarbonisation goals, trolleybus systems stand out as a viable and proven solution.
In this statistics brief, we present a representative overview of several cities which reflect state-of-the-art trolleybus systems worldwide. By analysing these networks, we aim to highlight their current status, operational characteristics and role in advancing sustainable urban mobility. The selected cities represent a diverse range of geographies, showcasing the versatility and adaptability of trolleybuses in different urban contexts. Through this brief, we will explore key performance indicators, innovations such as In Motion Charging, eBRT solutions, and the integration of trolleybuses into multimodal transport systems.
Contents also include:
- Development of global fleets
- Impact of the eBRT2030 project
- Trends in electrification and modernisation
- Explore 12 cities, from Vancouver to Athens, Shanghai, and more
