Computer Aided Dispatch and Automatic Vehicle Location (CAD/AVL) system project will enhance operational efficiency and passenger experience across Greater Toronto Hamilton Area transit network
Toronto, Ontario – [April 2026] – Systrans, a global leader in Intelligent Transportation Systems and part of the Equans group, has been selected by Metrolinx to design, deliver, and support a comprehensive Computer Aided Dispatch and Automatic Vehicle Location (CAD/AVL) system for its bus fleet serving the Greater Toronto Hamilton Area (GTHA). The contract, awarded following a competitive procurement process, represents a significant milestone in modernizing one of Ontario’s most critical public transit operations.
The project will encompass approximately 500 buses across Metrolinx’s network, including more than 250 double-decker vehicles operating on 37 bus routes serving approximately 831 stops throughout Southern Ontario. The new system will replace outdated technology that has been undermining operational efficiency, reliability, and user satisfaction, while positioning Metrolinx to meet evolving passenger expectations and operational needs through 2030 and beyond.
Comprehensive solution for modern transit operations
Systrans’ CAD/AVL solution, named NAVINEO, will provide real-time vehicle tracking and dispatch capabilities designed to optimize service delivery and enhance the passenger experience. The system integrates multiple technologies to create a unified platform for managing day-to-day operations while providing the data analytics needed for continuous service improvement.
Key components of the solution include:
- Uni-Directional integration with Metrolinx’s scheduling software, HASTUS.
- Real-time GPS tracking and dispatch software providing second-by-second location data with accuracy within a 3-meter radius and advanced real-time service adjustment functionalities.
- Voice and data communications, relying on 5G cellular data for bus operator messaging and Voice over IP (VoIP).
- Turn by turn navigation for bus operators, for both planned routes and detours, taking into account live traffic, as well as flex routing when a vehicle needs to exit planned route while still maintaining all stops.
- Automatic Passenger Counting through integration with existing infrared sensors, providing critical ridership data for service planning and resource management
- Automated Voice Announcement system delivering bilingual (English and Canadian French) customer communications for stops, service information, and safety messages
Supporting operational excellence and safety
The new NAVINEO CAD/AVL system addresses several critical objectives identified by Metrolinx. The current system’s technological obsolescence has created integration challenges with modern software and hardware while limiting route planning capabilities and real-time operational adjustments. By deploying cutting-edge technology, Systrans will help Metrolinx deliver improved staff capability through better tools for operational control and decision-making, enhanced data quality and accessibility to drive continuous improvement in service planning and resource management, and increased safety focus through active performance tracking and proactive incident management.
“We are proud to partner with Metrolinx on this transformative project that will modernize their bus operations across the GTHA,” said Pierre Lelievre, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Systrans, an Equans company. “This system will not only enhance day-to-day operational efficiency but will provide Metrolinx with the intelligent platform they need to continuously improve service delivery and passenger satisfaction as their network grows through 2030 and beyond.”
credits: Metrolinx
Collaborative implementation approach
Systrans will partner with Plan Group, a sister company within the Equans Group specializing in electrical and electronic systems integration, to manage the equipment installation across Metrolinx’s entire bus fleet. This collaboration leverages complementary expertise to ensure efficient deployment while minimizing service disruption.
The implementation will include comprehensive training programs for system administrators, Network Operations Control Center staff, bus operations personnel, operators, and maintenance teams. Systrans will provide ongoing technical support and maintenance services throughout the contract term, with service level agreements ensuring system uptime of 99.99% and rapid response to critical incidents.
Supporting Metrolinx’s vision for the future
Metrolinx operates a 24/7/365 public bus and regional train service across Southern Ontario, with bus operations managed across nine garages throughout the region. The organization has ambitious growth plans, with fleet projections indicating significant expansion by 2030. The new CAD/AVL system is designed to scale seamlessly to accommodate this growth while supporting increasing operational complexity.
The five-year initial operating term includes provisions for two possible five-year extension options, reflecting the long-term strategic nature of the partnership. Throughout this period, Systrans will work closely with Metrolinx to ensure the system evolves in alignment with changing operational needs, technological advancements, and passenger expectations.
“This investment in modern CAD/AVL technology is essential to delivering on our commitment to getting customers where they need to go safer, faster, and easier.” said Alex Milojevic, Executive Vice President Bus. “Equans demonstrated a clear understanding of our current needs and our vision for the future, and we look forward to this long-term partnership as we continue to expand and enhance bus service across the region.”
credits: Metrolinx
About Systrans
Systrans, an Equans company, designs and develops Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) to enhance the performance and efficiency of public transit networks. With over 46 years of experience, our teams support public transit agencies with scalable CAD/AVL and Real-Time Passenger Information systems tailored to their operational needs. From passenger information systems to vehicle monitoring and network supervision, we provide comprehensive tools to simplify fleet management and enhance the passenger and driver experience. Our flagship solution, the NAVINEO CAD/AVL system, is deployed on more than 60,000 vehicles worldwide in buses, light rail, and trains, helping cities move smarter every day. As an Equans company, we are part of a global leader in multi-technical services, accelerating the digital and energy transition of mobility. Our vision: Let’s build tomorrow’s transit for better lives in smarter cities. Read more on systrans.com
About Plan Group
Plan Group is a leader in the design, installation, and maintenance of electrical and electronic systems for vehicles and infrastructure. As part of the Equans Group, Plan Group brings specialized expertise in transit vehicle integration, ensuring seamless deployment of onboard technology systems. For more information, visit www.plan-group.com
About Metrolinx
Metrolinx is a provincial crown agency that plans, builds, and operates transit and transportation solutions across the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area. The agency’s mission is to champion, develop, and implement mobility solutions for the region to enhance prosperity, sustainability, and quality of life. For more information, visit www.metrolinx.com