Podaris Unveils Digital Twin Bus Network Platform
The UK startup is demonstrating its collaborative transport design tool at the ITS World Congress.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Remote Work
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UK startup Podaris has launched a digital twin platform designed to optimize bus network planning through data integration. The technology is currently being demonstrated to international transport officials and industry experts.
Why it matters
The platform addresses the need for transit networks to balance operational efficiency with equitable access to employment and services. It supports regions that are actively transitioning their local bus services to public control.
The KUDATA project is a bilateral initiative funded by Innovate UK and KAIA that has been in operation for two years. Podaris is showcasing this technology at booth P17 within the ITS European Pavilion.
The players
Podaris
This UK-based startup specializes in cloud-based collaborative software for transport planning and network design.
Innovate UK
This is the United Kingdom national innovation agency that drives productivity and economic growth by supporting business-led innovation.
Transport for West Midlands
This executive body is responsible for coordinating transport services and infrastructure across the West Midlands metropolitan area.
The details
The platform utilizes a collaborative planning process to design and analyze complex multimodal networks by integrating diverse datasets. By creating a digital twin, planners can stress-test network designs to ensure they meet accessibility standards while maintaining economic viability.
Timeline
The Korea-UK partnership was established two years ago.
The ITS World Congress will be held in Birmingham in 2027.
Market Landscape
The deployment of digital twin technology by Podaris mirrors a broader industry shift toward data-driven public transport governance. By providing tools for collaborative network planning, the company is positioning itself to assist regional authorities that are increasingly moving to reclaim public control of bus services.
Commuters may experience improved bus route reliability and connectivity as local authorities gain better data-driven planning tools. These advancements are intended to result in more equitable access to jobs and essential services for the public.
The takeaway
Digital twin platforms are transforming how cities approach complex infrastructure design by simulating outcomes before implementation. Urban planners can use these tools to prioritize both budget efficiency and social accessibility in their future transit networks.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest innovations in Remote Work and digital collaboration tools.
Source note: This article includes information reported by ITS International.
Live Poll
Do you believe moving bus networks under public control improves access to essential services in your community?
