Trolley Bus Market Forecasts to 2030 - Global Analysis By Type (Electric Trolley Buses, Hybrid Trolley Buses, Battery Trolley Buses and Other Types), Vehicle Type, Power Source, Seating Capacity, Technology, Application, End User and By Geography

According to Stratistics MRC, the Global Trolley Bus Market is accounted for $1.13 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach $1.58 billion by 2030 growing at a CAGR of 5.8% during the forecast period. An electric vehicle that runs on electricity delivered by overhead wires, usually through two flexible conductors or poles, is called a trolley bus. In order to provide environmentally friendly and energy-efficient public transportation, these buses are frequently utilized in metropolitan transit networks. Trolley buses, which run on electric motors instead of conventional diesel, are renowned for their low emissions and silent operation. More flexibility in route planning and urban mobility is offered by their ability to switch to battery power in the event that the electrified network is unavailable.

Market Dynamics:

Driver:

Increasing environmental concerns

The growing environmental concerns are playing a key role in driving the expansion of the trolley bus market. As cities and nations prioritize reducing carbon emissions and improving air quality, trolley buses offer a sustainable alternative to traditional diesel-powered buses. This aligns with the global push for greener public transportation systems, especially as governments implement stricter emission regulations and offer incentives for eco-friendly solutions. Trolley buses, with their lower environmental impact, are becoming an essential component of urban transportation strategies aimed at combating climate change and promoting sustainable mobility.

Restraint:

Infrastructure challenges

The substantial infrastructure expenditure needed to install and maintain overhead lines is one of the key obstacles facing the trolley bus industry. Due to potential traffic and utility delays, this can be especially difficult in metropolitan locations with pre-existing infrastructure. Furthermore, overhead line maintenance calls for certain knowledge and can be expensive and time-consuming. Battery-hybrid trolley buses, which can run on both overhead lines and batteries, are one creative way for communities to overcome these obstacles and lessen their dependency on infrastructure.

Opportunity:

Government policies and regulations

Government policies and regulations are a major driver of the trolley bus market. With increasing emphasis on reducing urban air pollution and promoting sustainability, governments around the world are implementing stricter emission standards for public transportation. These regulations encourage the adoption of cleaner alternatives like trolley buses, which produce fewer emissions compared to conventional diesel buses. Additionally, governments often offer incentives, subsidies, and funding to support the transition to green transportation systems, further boosting the adoption of trolley buses.

Threat:

Competition from alternative electric vehicles

The Alternative electric vehicles, particularly battery-electric buses, pose a serious threat to the trolley bus business. Unlike trolley buses, which rely on fixed overhead wires, battery-electric buses offer greater flexibility, as they can operate on any route without the need for specialized infrastructure. This makes them an appealing option for cities looking to modernize their transit systems without the high upfront costs associated with trolley bus infrastructure. Furthermore, advancements in battery technology are improving the range and efficiency of electric buses, preceds intensifying competition. As a result, cities may opt for battery-electric buses over trolley buses due to their lower operational and infrastructure costs.

Covid-19 Impact

The COVID-19 pandemic had a mixed impact on the trolley bus market. During the height of the crisis, many cities saw a decline in public transportation ridership due to lockdowns and social distancing measures, which temporarily reduced the demand for trolley bus services. Additionally, financial constraints and prioritization of other public health measures delayed infrastructure projects, including the expansion of trolley bus systems. However, as cities focus on rebuilding sustainable and cleaner transportation options post-pandemic, the long-term demand for environmentally friendly and efficient public transport solutions, such as trolley buses, is expected to increase, aligning with green recovery initiatives.

The electric trolley buses segment is expected to be the largest during the forecast period

The electric trolley buses segment is estimated to be the largest, due to their numerous advantages. These vehicles combine the benefits of traditional trolley buses with the flexibility of battery-powered operation. Electric trolley buses can operate on overhead lines or battery power, reducing reliance on infrastructure and expanding their operational range. They offer several advantages, including reduced emissions, lower operating costs, and quieter operation. Government incentives and subsidies are also driving the adoption of electric trolley buses, as they align with the global shift towards sustainable transportation.

The private operators segment is expected to have the highest CAGR during the forecast period

The private operators segment is anticipated to witness the highest CAGR during the forecast period, by investing in modern trolley bus systems and innovative technologies, private operators can offer efficient and reliable public transportation services. Government partnerships and supportive regulatory frameworks can encourage private sector participation. Additionally, private operators can leverage their expertise in fleet management, maintenance, and passenger services to improve the overall quality of trolley bus operations. By fostering a competitive environment, private operators can contribute to the development of sustainable and efficient urban transportation systems.

Region with largest share:

Asia Pacific is expected to have the largest market share during the forecast period due to rapid urbanization, increasing air pollution, and growing government support for sustainable transportation. Countries like China and India are investing heavily in public transportation infrastructure, including trolley bus systems. The region's large population and increasing middle class are driving demand for efficient and affordable public transportation. Additionally, government initiatives to reduce carbon emissions and improve air quality are creating a favourable environment for the adoption of trolley buses.

Region with highest CAGR:

North America is projected to witness the highest CAGR over the forecast period, owing to Increasing environmental concerns and the push for sustainable transportation solutions are central, as cities seek to reduce emissions and improve air quality. Government regulations and incentives supporting green mobility are also accelerating the adoption of trolley buses. The growing focus on reducing dependence on fossil fuels, along with advancements in electric vehicle technologies, is making trolley buses an attractive alternative for North American cities aiming for cleaner urban mobility.

Key players in the market

Some of the key players profiled in the Trolley Bus Market include Astra Bus, Hometown Trolley Inc., Molly Corporation, Bozankaya, Gomaco Trolley Company, Pandrol Limited, Viseon Bus GmbH, Youngman Automobile Group Co. Ltd, Salzburg AG, BPSWA INC., Solaris Bus & Coach S.A., SKODA Electric a.s., Bogdan Group, Kiepe Electric GmbH, Carrosserie Hess AG, Bohdan Motors JSC, Hitachi Rail Ltd., and Ebusco.

Key Developments:

In November 2024, Hitachi Rail partners with Invest Ontario to develop next generation of urban rail signalling technology in Toronto. C$100m investment to create cutting-edge Communications-Based Train Control (CBTC) product for urban rail operators in Canada and globally.

In June 2024, Astra Space, Inc. announced today the successful closing of its take-private transaction. With the completion of the take-private acquisition, the Class A Shares ceased trading prior to the opening of trading and will no longer be listed on the Nasdaq Capital Market.

Types Covered:

• Electric Trolley Buses
• Hybrid Trolley Buses
• Battery Trolley Buses
• Other Types

Vehicle Types Covered:

• Low-Floor Trolley Buses
• High-Floor Trolley Buses

Power Sources Covered:

• Overhead Catenary System
• Ground Level Power Supply
• Onboard Battery

Seating Capacities Covered:

• Up to 50
• 51-100
• Above 100

Technologies Covered:

• Conventional
• Autonomous

Applications Covered:

• Urban Transportation
• Intercity Transportation
• Suburban Transport
• Tourism
• Other Applications

End Users Covered:

• Public Transit Authorities
• Private Operators
• Tourist Services
• Other End Users

Regions Covered:

• North America
  • US
  • Canada
  • Mexico
• Europe
  • Germany
  • UK
  • Italy
  • France
  • Spain
  • Rest of Europe
• Asia Pacific
  • Japan
  • China
  • India
  • Australia
  • New Zealand
  • South Korea
  • Rest of Asia Pacific
• South America
  • Argentina
  • Brazil
  • Chile
  • Rest of South America
• Middle East & Africa
  • Saudi Arabia
  • UAE
  • Qatar
  • South Africa
  • Rest of Middle East & Africa

What our report offers:

• Market share assessments for the regional and country-level segments
• Strategic recommendations for the new entrants
• Covers Market data for the years 2022, 2023, 2024, 2026, and 2030
• Market Trends (Drivers, Constraints, Opportunities, Threats, Challenges, Investment Opportunities, and recommendations)
• Strategic recommendations in key business segments based on the market estimations
• Competitive landscaping mapping the key common trends
• Company profiling with detailed strategies, financials, and recent developments
• Supply chain trends mapping the latest technological advancements

Free Customization Offerings:

All the customers of this report will be entitled to receive one of the following free customization options:

• Company Profiling
  • Comprehensive profiling of additional market players (up to 3)
  • SWOT Analysis of key players (up to 3)
• Regional Segmentation
  • Market estimations, Forecasts and CAGR of any prominent country as per the client's interest (Note: Depends on feasibility check)
• Competitive Benchmarking
  • Benchmarking of key players based on product portfolio, geographical presence, and strategic alliances