While the UITP Summit covers the full spectrum of public transport, each edition highlights a limited number of Local Spotlights. These reflect key developments in the sector as well as the specific context, expertise and ambitions of the host city and region.
High-capacity and high-performing public transport systems can transform growing metropolitan areas into sustainable, connected, and economically vibrant cities.
© Siemens AG
With 24 new stations along 29km of track, the city’s new metro line is expected to carry over 315,000 passengers every day. That makes the U5 Germany’s largest metro project, set to provide a first-of-its-kind service for Germany. Fully automated, passengers will be able to board a train every 90 seconds – and that train will run on 100% clean electricity.
Trial operations begin using the new CBTC system and the first station, City Nord, will be completed.
The rollout of automated vehicles is our sector’s next big step. When integrated into public transport systems, autonomous vehicles can transform the quality of public transport by increasing accessibility and optimising efficiency.
© MOIA
Barrier-free autonomous vehicles (AVs). In 2026, two types of AVs hit Hamburg’s roads – minibuses from MOIA and shuttles from HOLON.
Dubbed ALIKE, the project breaks new ground by tackling key questions around rolling out AVs, from governance to procurement, economic viability, and more. One of the project’s main goals is to prevent robotaxis from inducing more traffic. Hamburg will do that by integrating both scheduled and on-demand services into public transport across urban and rural areas.
Starting in 2026, HOLON’s AVs have departed from the ‘AD Hub’, offering space for ten autonomous shuttles. MOIA continues to offer passengers autonomous journeys with safety drivers.
Putting people – their needs and experience – at the centre of public transport can contribute to more inclusive and liveable urban spaces. Technology, integrated mobility solutions, and urban infrastructure can reduce car dependency and offer a broad, cohesive mix of mobility options.
© BVM/Robin Lindner
hvv switch points connect public transport with mobility services such as car sharing, e-scooters, and the StadtRAD bike-sharing scheme. Currently, there are more than 177 hvv switch points with over 911 car-sharing parking spaces.
At the same time, the digital services available via the hvv switch app are being continuously expanded, with ongoing integration of various mobility providers, including ride-pooling, car sharing, and e-scooter sharing.
The ongoing expansion of hvv switch points and a focus on extending to outer urban areas. As well, the continued development of the hvv switch app.
Public transport can accelerate the transition towards climate-neutral and more sustainable mobility, while supporting liveable and resilient cities. Hamburg’s Vision Net Zero 2040 and its Mobility Transition Strategy, including the expansion of public transport, alternative drives and integrated mobility planning, provide a concrete framework for this ambition.
© moka-studio
Mobility networks are stronger when they’re multimodal. To make it easier to combine cycling and public transport, Hamburg is expanding bicycle parking – called Bike + Ride – at mobility hubs. It will also be possible to digitally book a parking spot.
In 2012, there were just under 16,000 spaces. Fast forward to June 2026 and Hamburg hit 30,000 bicycle parking spaces at public transport hubs.
Some 115km new cycling infrastructure will be added alongside hundreds of new parking spaces. Not to mention the growth of the new cycle wayfinding system designed to make navigating on a bike as simple as possible.
Co-developing CUSTOM to improve accessibility for people with mobility impairments.
New electric bus depots are opening across Hamburg – enabling a 40% bus electrification rate.
Hamburg’s taxis are the most electrified in Germany. By 2030, the goal is 100% zero-emission.
A new wayfinding system for Hamburg – easier to spot and read at a glance.
