Turin Automatic Vehicle Monitoring Fleet Management System

The challenge

Turin, one of Italy’s largest and most iconic cities, became the first city in the country to implement an AVM (Automatic Vehicle Monitoring) fleet management system in 1985. Over time, the challenge was not only to maintain this pioneering system but to continuously modernize it to meet evolving mobility demands.

Managing a fleet of approximately 1,200 vehicles — around 1,000 buses and 200 trams, including both new and legacy models — required seamless integration into a single unified platform. The system needed to provide real-time data processing, support operational decision-making, ensure punctual and reliable public transport, and deliver accurate passenger information across multiple channels. At the same time, fleet diagnostics, driver support, safety features, ticketing integration, and traffic signal priority had to be coordinated within a fully connected ITS ecosystem.

The process

Originally installed by Mizar Automazione (today SWARCO ITALIA), the AVM system has been continuously maintained and upgraded by SWARCO for more than 40 years. The system evolved step by step, integrating modern technologies while preserving compatibility with legacy infrastructure.

At its core, a powerful control platform was developed to collect and process real-time data from the entire fleet. This data is made available to the public transport operator GTT and shared with passengers through multiple channels, including QR codes, GTFS-RT, SIRI, mobile applications, websites, passenger information displays, and regional MaaS platforms.

A dedicated operations control room staffed by more than 10 specialists monitors the fleet in real time, managing traffic-related contingencies and service disruptions. Vehicle diagnostics systems support maintenance teams in ensuring optimal fleet performance.

On board, the NEXT OBU platform was integrated across the fleet, connecting with other ITS subsystems to enhance safety, provide driver assistance, monitor passenger loads, interact with electronic ticketing systems, and ensure seamless connectivity. Public transport priority at traffic lights was enabled through integration with SWARCO’s Urban Traffic Control (UTC) platform, further improving operational efficiency.

The solution

Turin’s AVM system stands as Italy’s first and longest-running fleet management solution, now transformed into a modern, fully integrated public transport management ecosystem. The centralized control platform delivers real-time fleet visibility, operational reliability, and comprehensive passenger information services.

Through continuous modernization, seamless integration of legacy and new vehicles, advanced onboard technology, and traffic-light priority coordination, the system enhances punctuality, safety, and service quality. The integration with MaaS platforms and passenger information channels ensures a connected and transparent travel experience.

By combining long-term expertise with ongoing technological innovation, SWARCO has ensured that Turin’s pioneering AVM system remains future-ready, supporting efficient, reliable, and sustainable urban mobility.