Articulated Buses Market Size - By Vehicle (Single-decker, Double-decker), By Propulsion (ICE, Electric), By Application (Intracity, Intercity, Airport Shuttle Services, Tour, Charter Services), By Seating Capacity, By End User & Forecast, 2024 - 2032

Articulated Buses Market Size

Articulated Buses Market size was valued at USD 18.8 billion in 2023 and is estimated to register a CAGR of over 8% between 2024 and 2032. With urban populations increasing globally, the demand for efficient transit solutions escalates. Articulated buses offer a practical solution to this challenge by maximizing passenger capacity within existing infrastructure. Their ability to navigate dense urban areas meets the pressing need for reliable & sustainable public transportation options in burgeoning cities.
 

For instance, in March 2024, the first test runs of an electric double-articulated bus equipped with an Alstom floor-based conductive charging system were conducted in the French region of Île-de-France. Île-de-France Mobilités, the public transportation authority, intended to purchase a complete fleet of electric buses measuring 24 meters in length.

Subsidies and incentives play a pivotal role in propelling the adoption of articulated buses. Government schemes alleviate financial burdens for transit agencies, making investment in articulated buses more attractive. By providing subsidies for procurement or operational expenses and offering incentives, such as tax breaks or grants, governments stimulate the expansion of articulated bus fleets. These measures lower the upfront costs and reduce the overall financial risk associated with shifting to articulated buses, encouraging transit agencies to embrace these vehicles as a viable solution to urban transportation challenges and fostering sustainable mobility initiatives.
 

Higher maintenance expenses resulting from the intricate design of articulated buses pose a significant challenge for transit agencies. The complexity of these vehicles, with their articulated joints and extended length, translates into increased maintenance requirements and costs. Maintenance teams must contend with specialized components and systems, necessitating advanced training and specialized equipment. Additionally, the wear & tear on articulated buses can be more pronounced compared to conventional buses, leading to more frequent repairs and downtime. These elevated maintenance costs strain operating budgets and can undermine the cost-effectiveness of articulated buses as a transit solution.
 

Articulated Buses Market Trends

As cities prioritize sustainability, electrification of articulated buses is on the rise. Electric articulated buses offer zero-emission operation, reducing environmental impact and aligning with carbon reduction goals. This growth reflects a shift toward cleaner and more sustainable public transportation options in urban areas worldwide. For instance, in October 2023, the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) initiated its debut all-electric bus route, Rapid Route 227, spanning the South Bay area. Representing a notable advancement, these new electric articulated buses mark the inaugural addition to MTS's fleet, offering over 600 additional service hours between the border and Imperial Beach compared to the existing Route 950.
 

Rapid advancements in autonomous vehicle technology are reshaping the articulated buses market. The integration of autonomous features enables enhanced safety, precision, and efficiency in urban transit systems. These buses can navigate routes autonomously, reducing the need for human intervention and optimizing traffic flow. Additionally, autonomous capabilities enhance accessibility, providing reliable transportation for individuals with mobility challenges. As autonomous technology matures and gains acceptance, it is poised to revolutionize the way articulated buses operate, offering innovative solutions to urban mobility challenges and shaping the future of public transportation.
 

Articulated Buses Market Analysis

Based on vehicle, the market is divided into single-decker and double-decker. The single-decker segment is projected to exceed USD 35 billion by 2032. The rise of single-decker articulated buses signifies a shift toward more versatile and maneuverable urban transit solutions. These buses offer increased agility in navigating congested city streets while providing ample passenger capacity. Their compact design makes them well-suited for routes with limited space and tight turns.
 

For instance, in August 2023, Metlink, the public transport authority in Wellington, New Zealand, unveiled its intentions to conduct a trial of articulated buses on Wellington's primary route, the number 2 bus route, which serves Karori, Miramar, and Seatoun. This trial will feature a single-decker articulated bus, temporarily borrowed from Auckland, enabling Metlink officials to verify the alignment of the bus's projected route with its actual trajectory.
 

Based on application, the articulated buses market is categorized into intracity, intercity, airport shuttle services, and tour & charter services. The intracity segment held a major market share of around 73% in 2023. The market is witnessing a shift in propulsion technology, with a continued reliance on ICE vehicles. Despite the emergence of electric alternatives, ICE-powered Articulated Buses remain prevalent due to existing infrastructure, familiarity, and range advantages. Manufacturers are refining ICE technology to improve fuel efficiency, reduce emissions, and comply with stringent environmental regulations.
 

For instance, in December 2023, Volkswagen unveiled the 2025 Volkswagen Transporter T7, introducing substantial enhancements in load capacity, payload, and maximum trailer weight when compared to its predecessor, the T6.1. The T7 offers load capacities ranging from 5.8 to 9.0 cubic meters, accompanied by an increased maximum payload of 1.3 tons or 2,866 pounds and a maximum trailer weight of 2.8 tons or 6,173 pounds. It is offered with various powertrain options including turbo diesel and plug-in hybrid configurations.
 

Asia Pacific dominated the global articulated buses market with a major share of over 35% in 2023. The region is experiencing rapid expansion and modernization of urban transit systems, driving increased demand for articulated buses. Governments and transit authorities are investing in fleet renewal programs and infrastructure upgrades to accommodate growing urban populations, resulting in substantial growth opportunities for the articulated buses market.
 

In the U.S., the adoption of articulated buses is surging as cities aim to improve public transportation efficiency and reduce congestion. Transit agencies across the country are investing in articulated bus fleets to accommodate growing urban populations and address the challenges of urban mobility.
 

In Europe, particularly in countries including France, Germany, and the UK, there is a discernible rise in the electrification of articulated buses. These countries are increasingly implementing strict emission regulations and sustainability targets, prompting transit agencies to shift to electric articulated buses. This trend reflects a broader commitment to reducing Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions and improving air quality in urban areas, positioning electric articulated buses as a key component of sustainable transportation strategies.
 

Articulated Buses Market Share

Mercedes-Benz and Volvo hold a significant market share of over 45% in the articulated buses industry. Volvo stands out as a prominent player, renowned for its innovative designs and advanced technology. Competitors, such as Mercedes-Benz, MAN, and Solaris, also strive for market share, offering a range of articulated buses with varying features and specifications. New entrants including BYD and Proterra are challenging traditional players with their electric-powered articulated buses, intensifying competition, and driving innovation in the sector.
 

Manufacturers compete for dominance by focusing on innovation, reliability, and sustainability. Each player focuses on differentiating itself through unique design features, fuel-efficient propulsion systems, and passenger-centric amenities. Market leaders leverage their extensive experience and global presence to secure lucrative contracts with transit agencies worldwide. Emerging players aim to disrupt the market with cutting-edge technologies, challenging established norms and reshaping the future of urban transportation.
 

Articulated Buses Market Companies

Major companies operating in the articulated buses industry are:

• Alexander Dennis
• Gillig
• King Long
• MAN
• Mercedes-Benz
• New Flyer
• Scania
• Solaris
• Volvo
• Yutong
   

Articulated Buses Industry News

• In June 2023, Mercedes-Benz achieved a milestone by manufacturing over 1,000 eCitaro electric buses. The low-floor electric buses were produced at the Mannheim production facility. The eCitaro range features pioneering technology, safety enhancements, and exceptional performance.
   
• In December 2022, Ebusco introduced the Ebusco 3.0 model in an articulated variant, featuring an impressive range of up to 700 km, with a battery capacity exceeding 500 kWh and a lightweight construction achieved through composite materials. This 18-meter bus has a starting weight of 14,500 kg and the capacity to accommodate up to 150 passengers.
   

The articulated buses market research report includes in-depth coverage of the industry, with estimates & forecast in terms of revenue (USD Million) and volume (units) from 2021 to 2032, for the following segments:

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Market, By Vehicle

• Single-decker
• Double-decker

Market, By Propulsion

• ICE
  • Diesel
  • CNG
• Electric
  • BEV
  • HEV

Market, By Application

• Intracity
  • ICE
  • Electric
• Intercity
  • ICE
  • Electric
• Airport shuttle services
  • ICE
  • Electric
• Tour & charter services
  • ICE
  • Electric

Market, By Seating Capacity

• Low capacity
• High capacity

Market, By End Users

• Public transit authorities
• Private transportation companies

• Tour operators

The above information is provided for the following regions and countries:

• North America
  • U.S.
  • Canada
• Europe
  • UK
  • Germany
  • France
  • Russia
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Rest of Europe
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • India
  • Japan
  • South Korea
  • ANZ
  • Southeast Asia
  • Rest of Asia Pacific 
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Argentina
  • Rest of Latin America
• MEA
  • UAE
  • South Africa
  • Saudi Arabia
  • Rest of MEA