Autonomous Train Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Automation Grade, By Train Type, By Application (Passenger, Freight), By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2024 - 2030

Autonomous Train Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Automation Grade, By Train Type, By Application (Passenger, Freight), By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2024 - 2030

Autonomous Train Market Size & Trends

The global autonomous train market size was estimated at USD 9.82 billion in 2023 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.9% from 2024 to 2030. An autonomous train is a train capable of operating without a human driver. This technology has the potential to revolutionize rail travel by offering increased efficiency and safety. The global market is driven by factors such as increased safety focus, growing demand for efficient and sustainable transportation, and government support for autonomous technologies in trains.

Autonomous trains rely on a combination of sensors, cameras, antennas, Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR), Radio Detection and Ranging (RADAR), and advanced computer systems to perceive their surroundings, control speed and braking, and adhere to schedules. For instance, in August 2023, Aeva Inc., a pioneer in advanced sensing and perception systems, announced that Railergy, a provider of railway automation solutions, has selected Aeva Inc.’s cutting-edge Frequency Modulated Continuous Wave (FMCW) 4D LiDAR technology to power the perception system for its autonomous train operation solution.

Aeva Inc.’s Aeries II sensors offer crucial real-time velocity data and high-resolution sensing capabilities, enabling the detection of obstacles that could potentially impede the safe operation of driverless trains. Thus, growing technological advancements and increased adoption of technologies such as LIDAR and RADAR in autonomous trains are further boosting the growth of the market.

Furthermore, the market is further driven by the rising demand for enhanced mobility amidst the challenges of increasing urbanization. As urban areas become more densely populated, the shift from road-based to rail-based transportation is becoming more evident, presenting a compelling opportunity for the autonomous train market. This transition is driven by the need for efficient and sustainable transportation solutions, aligning with the growing emphasis on environmentally friendly urban mobility. Moreover, the foreseeable shortage of trained drivers in the immediate future highlights the urgency and relevance of autonomous train technology.

In June 2030, Hitachi Rail STS announced the completion and commencement of passenger service for the first phase of Honolulu's new metro system, named 'Skyline'. This marks the debut of the first fully autonomous metro system in the U.S. The fully electrically powered system will transition individuals to sustainable transportation, shifting them away from private cars and toward a cleaner, less congested environment. This shift aims to diminish emissions and alleviate traffic congestion, benefitting both residents and visitors in Honolulu. Such initiatives by several manufacturers are expected to bode well for the growth of the market.

The development, installation, and maintenance of autonomous train systems can be extremely expensive, posing a significant financial barrier for rail operators. Autonomous trains require extensive infrastructure changes that may not be compatible with existing railway networks, making integration and deployment complex. In addition, autonomous systems may struggle to effectively respond to unpredictable events or emergencies, potentially falling short of the adaptability and decision-making capabilities of human drivers. In addition, the risk of hacking and cyberattacks on autonomous train systems is a major concern, as an effective breach could potentially disable or hijack the trains, compromising safety. Thus, factors such as high costs, infrastructure challenges, and cybersecurity risks could hamper the growth of the market.

Global Autonomous Train Market Report Segmentation

The report forecasts revenue growth at global, regional, and country levels and provides an analysis of the latest industry trends in each of the sub-segments from 2018 to 2030. For this study, Grand View Research has segmented the global autonomous train market based on automation grade, train type, application and region.

• Automation Grade Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)
• GoA 1
• GoA 2
• GoA 3
• GoA 4
• Train Type Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)
• Metro/Monorail
• High-speed Rail
• Light Rail
• Application Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)
• Passenger
• Freight
• Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)
• North America
• U.S.
• Canada
• Mexico
• Europe
• Germany
• UK
• France
• Asia Pacific
• China
• India
• Japan
• Australia
• South Korea
• Latin America
• Brazil
• Middle East & Africa
• UAE
• Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
• South Africa

Please note The report will be delivered in 4-8 business days upon order notification. Show more