Fluctuating demand and shifting working patterns have increased the need for accurate forecasting for public transport operators, especially as established approaches – such as in-person surveys and spot checks – can often lead to inaccurate and unreliable predictions.
Startup OpenCapacity is using artificial intelligence (AI) to transform public transport monitoring, forecasting and capacity management. Its innovation is helping operators to improve service efficiency and better match capacity to usage patterns in real time, enabling the shift from reactive to proactive service planning for effective capacity management – whether over the long term, or to accommodate localised large-scale events.
OpenCapacity works primarily with public transport operators, using existing data sensors (such as, but not limited to, load weight data, CCTV cameras, and door counters) to provide real-time information on passenger numbers and locations. This data is then enriched with external data points – such as weather, events and seasonal trends – to help model and predict future passenger flow and demand for capacity.
Improving journeys for wheelchair users
OpenCapacity was looking to achieve productivity and efficiency gains, while improving
the accessibility of bus service. With Digital Catapult’s support through the High Growth AI Accelerator for Innovate UK’s BridgeAI programme, OpenCapacity developed and tested a new AI product that improves journeys for disabled customers and reduces dwell times for public transport services, helping to optimise scheduling.
The OpenCapacity solution uses CCTV footage from London buses to automatically detect whether the priority spaces on board are occupied or available. It then shares this information with wheelchair users, allowing them to see in advance whether an upcoming service has a suitable space for them.
Digital Catapult facilitated a direct relationship with Transport for London (TfL) to support product development and testing, and enabled OpenCapacity to actively engage wheelchair users in the development process.
OpenCapacity’s solution demonstrated remarkable accuracy within a short 14-week development cycle.
[Digital Catapult] provided us with expert mentorship, advanced resources, and crucial industry insights, allowing us to refine our AI-driven real-time video analytics solution for wheelchair and buggy detection on buses.
Collaboration with TfL not only validated our technology but also highlighted its importance in enhancing accessibility for passengers. The accelerator has boosted our growth, expanded our network, and positioned OpenCapacity as a leader in AI driven transportation solutions.
– Gerrit Boehm, Founder & CEO, OpenCapacity
International growth and recognition
ollowing its success through the accelerator, OpenCapacity engaged in discussions with multiple operators and municipalities internationally, and its patented technology is now being used within transport networks in the UK and Europe.
In June 2025, OpenCapacity won the prestigious SET4FUTURE Innovation Award at the Rail.S-Sommerfest in Chemnitz in Germany, and CEO Gerrit Boehm was a speaker at Busworld Europe 2025 in Belgium.
About OpenCapacity
OpenCapacity focuses on solving problems in the transport industry, developing AI applications that enable passengers and operators to make informed decisions. As well as providing analytics, forecasting and visualisation for effective capacity management, its digital twin technology helps operators better understand the condition and the content of rolling stock assets in real-time and future states.