Hitachi Rail has successfully completed the acquisition of Clever Devices, a leading US-based provider of Intelligent Transportation Systems for transit agencies around the world.
Clever Devices is recognised for its pioneering technology solutions that enhance fleet management, passenger experience and operational efficiency for mass transit agencies. The company has offices across the United States, Europe, and South America.
The acquisition of a company with deep digital expertise and projected 2026 revenues of over $220 million enables Hitachi Rail to reflect the increasing demand for more integrated transportation systems. With completion of the transaction, Hitachi Rail extends its footprint beyond rail into multimodal mobility and further strengthens its presence in North America.
With over 600 employees and a customer base that includes eight of the 10 largest North American transit agencies, Clever Devices has a strong track record of innovation and delivery. Its Intelligent Transport System (ITS) solutions are a critical enabler of increased public transport usage, improving the accuracy of information and boosting service punctuality. These solutions are deployed across public mobility systems, including buses as well as railways. In addition to its strong North American presence, Clever Devices has achieved substantial growth in markets such as Brazil and Chile, as well as in Europe, including Italy.
Clever Devices portfolio of onboard and centralised data solutions augments Hitachi’s HMAX Mobility suite of physical AI solutions, bringing enhanced functionality and benefits for customers across public transport systems globally.
HMAX for Rail sits as part of HMAX Mobility and is Hitachi Rail’s digital asset management platform that optimises railway performance by connecting data from fleets of trains, signalling assets and infrastructure to create an operational twin of rail systems. It combines advanced sensor technology, rail expertise, AI, and edge computing to maximise performance, extend asset life, and optimise costs.
Giuseppe Marino, group CEO of Hitachi Rail, said: “This is a key step in advancing our strategy to drive the digital transformation of public transport. We are combining Clever Devices’ strong capabilities in intelligent transportation systems with our global reach and HMAX Mobility suite of solutions.
“With this acquisition, we are broadening our scope beyond rail, strengthening our footprint in North America, and laying the platform to help cities develop more integrated, sustainable and efficient transportation networks.”
As part of the integration, Frank Antonysamy has been appointed chief executive officer of Clever Devices, having most recently served as chief growth officer at Hitachi Digital, where he led the launch of Hitachi’s Industrial AI portfolio. As CEO, he will focus on accelerating growth, strengthening market positioning and driving long-term value creation for the Clever Devices business.
Frank said: “Joining Clever Devices at this important moment is a great opportunity. As part of Hitachi Rail, we are well positioned to leverage Hitachi’s investments in HMAX and more than 115 years of OT expertise, to accelerate innovation, expand our global reach and deliver enhanced value to transit agencies and passengers through our advanced digital mobility solutions”
Image credit: Hitachi Rail
