Cities worldwide invest in rail fleets, light rail projects and digital ticketing upgrades
March 2026
Urban transport authorities around the world are accelerating investments in rail infrastructure, rolling stock and fare technology in 2026, as cities look to improve mobility, expand transit capacity and modernize passenger services.
Recent developments across Europe, Asia and the Americas highlight a growing focus on suburban rail systems, light rail projects and digital ticketing solutions.
New Suburban Rail Fleet Planned in Poland
Authorities in Gornoslasko-Zaglebiowska Metropolia and the Slaskie Voivodship have applied for co-financing to procure 32 electric multiple units (EMUs), with an option to expand the order by 20 additional trains.
Ownership of the fleet would be shared equally between the two regional authorities, with the trains expected to operate on new suburban rail services under the Metrokolei brand.
A decision on funding is anticipated later this year. If approved, the trains could enter service by late 2029, with a tender for an operating company expected in the coming months.
Tram Testing and Light Rail Planning Worldwide
Several cities are progressing tram and light rail initiatives aimed at improving urban mobility.
In Yekaterinburg, a newly certified three-section tram model has begun passenger test operations. The design is based on a prototype previously showcased at a trade exhibition in the city.
Meanwhile in Brasilia, authorities have launched a tender process for feasibility studies and preliminary engineering work on a 15-kilometer light rail line that would connect the districts of Taguatinga and Ceilândia.
Additional developments include:
- Ploiești, Romania: Funding secured through a loan and grant for new trams and depot modernization. A supplier is expected to be selected by May 2026, with deliveries beginning in early 2027.
- Campinas, Brazil: Progress continues on plans for a 44-kilometer light rail corridor linking Sumaré to the city’s international airport via downtown. The project is expected to follow a public-private partnership (PPP) structure.
- Yaroslavl, Russia: The city has arranged the transfer of 20 used trams to the city of Biysk, with delivery scheduled this month.
Digital Fare Systems Expand in Budapest
Public transport authorities are also investing in new fare technologies to improve passenger convenience.
The city council of Budapest has approved the expansion of a contactless bank card payment system for transit fares following successful pilot testing on selected routes.
A new trial covering additional metro lines is expected to begin in April 2026, with a full system rollout planned across the metropolitan network by 2028.
Additional Transport Initiatives
Elsewhere, transit systems are introducing measures aimed at operational improvements and passenger services.
In Philadelphia, a public transit agency has expanded a program supporting small businesses by increasing the financial threshold for contract opportunities reserved for them.
Meanwhile, Delhi Metro Rail Corporation has introduced temporary measures allowing school students appearing for exams to receive priority access to station security checks and ticket machines.
In Yekaterinburg, a manufacturer has also completed the delivery of 16 low-floor trams, further strengthening the city’s public transport fleet.
Growing Momentum for Sustainable Urban Mobility
These developments reflect a broader global trend toward modernizing urban transport systems through electrified rail fleets, expanded light rail corridors and improved digital fare systems.
As cities continue to invest in sustainable mobility solutions, rail-based transport remains central to efforts aimed at reducing congestion, lowering emissions and improving accessibility for urban populations.
