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London's bus network will benefit from AI-powered optimisations through CitySwift partnership

CitySwift has today announced the rollout of its platform to all bus operators in London.

London has one of the largest public transport networks in the world with nearly 9,000 buses serving approximately 1.8 billion passenger journeys annually. It is operated by seven bus operators on 675 routes franchised by Transport for London (TfL). CitySwift has the potential to over time enable all of London’s bus operators to use data, AI optimisations and simulations to mitigate disruptions, optimise resource use and facilitate collaboration. Increasing the performance of the network will deliver more reliable bus services to drive increased passenger volumes and a better passenger experience.

“Our work with both authorities and operators in multiple regions since 2016 has consistently delivered tangible results in improved reliability, efficiency, and passenger and driver satisfaction. We are thrilled to bring these advantages to all operators, drivers and passengers in the London bus network, contributing to TfL’s vision of providing the most efficient and reliable transport network," said CEO and Co-founder Brian O’Rourke on today’s announcement.

CitySwift currently employs 17 people in the UK and 50 people in Ireland, with ambitions to double headcount in both countries over the next 3 years. Founded in 2016 by Brian O'Rourke and Alan Farrelly, CitySwift empowers private operators and public transport authorities to achieve unmatched efficiency by using data to solve problems. CitySwift's AI-powered performance optimisation platform delivers insights, simulations, and actionable recommendations to support the provision of high-performing bus services.

This news follows a year of rapid growth for CitySwift in 2024. During that time, the company secured €7 million in funding and announced renewed and new partnerships with Transport for Wales, National Express, Transport for Greater Manchester, Go-Ahead Group, and more.