Trolley Bus Market Size, Share, and COVID-19 Impact Analysis, By Type (Single Low-Floor, Bi-Articulated, and Others), By Application (Public Transport, Tourism, and Others), by propulsion (Electric and Dual-Powered), and Regional Forecast, 2025-2032

The trolleybus market has been witnessing significant growth in recent years and is poised to continue expanding in the coming years. Trolleybus, or trackless buses or trams, is public transportation powered by electricity supplied through overhead wires via pantographs. They combine the usage merits of buses and trams, offering a more economical and sustainable public transportation solution. One of the key growth drivers of the trolleybus markets is easily available electricity today, especially AC and DC direct lines of electric current. As governments and organizations of different countries prioritize sustainability, more trolleybuses will attract people to public transportation.

Additionally, trolleybuses have a major advantage over conventional gas-powered vehicles, i.e., they are quieter, more economical, and have more torque on the get-go. Their electric propulsion system is also known for its reliability and comfortable passenger rides. Also, in urban areas, more traffic congestion has caused a shift towards electric mobility and transportation, especially the trolleybus market. These vehicles can pass through congested areas due to flexibility and sometimes having their dedicated lanes. Furthermore, advancements in technology have also contributed to the growth of the trolleybus market and are poised to play a vital role in shaping the future of urban mobility.

Impact of COVID-19 on the Trolley Bus Market

COVID-19 had a significant impact on the automotive sector, especially on public transport. The critical point was the disruption in the supply chain, closed manufacturing facilities, and initially dropped automotive production. Many countries worldwide implemented strict sanctions and lockdowns on the movement of components and goods, disrupting the market logistics. People staying at home and using less public transportation led to decreased sales and services related to the trolleybus market.

Post COVID-19 changes in Consumer behavior and rapid adoption of electric vehicles have led to a surge in demand for electric buses with pantographs. This trend will continue as more and more push towards green and sustainable transportation occurs. The pandemic has also driven innovation and competition among manufacturers. Companies are investing in research and development to create more advanced and efficient trolleybuses, making electric transportation more accessible to consumers. Overall the trolleybus market is expected to grow highly post-Covid-19 as EV transportation gets significant traction and popularity.

Key Insights

The report will cover the following key insights:

• Key Industry Developments – Mergers, Acquisitions, and Partnerships.
• Porter's Five Forces Analysis.
• Technological Developments.
• Impact of COVID-19 on the Trolley Bus Market.

Segmentation

Analysis by Type and by Propulsion

Electric trolleybus will have a significant market share owing to the prioritization and adoption of cities and governments' eco-friendly transportation options; electronic trolleybus offers a viable solution to reduce emissions and improve urban mobility. Additionally, the articulated trolleybuses segment has high growth potential, particularly in urban environments and densely populated areas where there is a strong need to accommodate a larger number of passengers efficiently. Articulated trolleybuses can help alleviate overcrowding and provide enhanced capacity on busy routes. Local markets and regional demands will boost the segment's growth.

Analysis by Application

By application, public transport will play a major role in the segment's growth because most of the trolleybuses manufactured are for public transportation providing smooth and efficient transportation options for passengers. These trolleybuses are primarily designed to serve as part of regular transit networks in urban areas. Demand for trolley bus services can evolve and be influenced by changing urban dynamics, population growth, and shifts in transportation preferences. Assessing the potential demand requires a comprehensive understanding of the local context and a thorough analysis of various factors affecting public transport usage patterns.

Analysis by Region

The highest growth rate is expected in the European market, especially Eastern European countries, due to major urban transportation, Buses, Metros, etc. High automation and the presence of major manufacturers of EVs and hybrid Bi-articulated buses will positively impact the trolleybus market, thus increasing transport popularity in European countries like Sweden, Finland, and Netherlands. Following Europe next in line is the Asia-pacific region due to demand and the establishment of pantograph lines for the roads. The rapid adoption of electric pantograph networks in metropolitan areas and bus affordability by these operators will boost regional growth.

Key Players Covered

Solaris Bus & Coach S.A. (Poland), Skoda Electric (Czech Republic), Van Hool NV (Belgium), Zhengzhou Yutong Bus Co., Ltd. (China), Hess AG (Germany), Irizar Group (Spain), IVECO (Netherlands), Volvo Buses (Germany), Kiepe Electric GmbH (Germany), BVG Berlin (Germany), and BYD Company (China).

Key Industry Developments

• January 2022: TransN is re-introducing trolleybuses to Neuchatel and La Chaux-de-Fonds with 30 new model Hess Lightram 18m battery trolleybuses between 2023 and 2026 running on lines 301, 302, and 304.

• February 2020: BVG Berlin announced that it is considering a trolleybus-based solution in the Berlin network that might be served by bi-articulated vehicles equipped with Motion Charging technology. BVG plans the electrification of the bus fleet by 2030.