Meet Davide De Capitani, our connected buses expert!

How can bus operators make the most of onboard technologies such as telematics, ticketing, vehicle tracking and video? Davide De Capitani, Product Line Manager for Connected Buses, unveils Thales’ new AI-enabled fleet management solution and explains why it is a game changer for operators and passengers alike.

Can you tell us about the work you are doing?

We’re about to launch TRANSCITY™ Fleet – our brand-new fleet management solution for bus operators, so we’re really excited! It allows customers to manage every aspect of their operations in real time – not only vehicle tracking, but also onboard ticketing, passenger information, video, telematics and more. It is a multi-operator solution and our modular approach allows to easily integrate multiple functionalities , so it goes a long way beyond conventional fleet management. 

What challenges do bus operators face – and how are you solving them?

Modern buses have multiple onboard subsystems from different suppliers. These can act as functional silos, so synergies are lost. Often there is also a lot of duplication – each subsystem may require its own SIM and GPS. With our approach and expertise, it is possible to integrate all onboard subsystems via a single network. We can interface with pre-existing  subsystems or provide full end-to-end solution, and our web-based application provides complete visibility and control over fleets. 

Can you combine data from different subsystems?

Absolutely, and this is one of our big differentiators. For example, we already manage ticketing via onboard validators, so we know how many people are tapping in. But you can get a much more granular picture of how the bus is being used or enhance protection of customer revenue from fraud if you combine this with data from passenger counters and CCTV. We can use AI to do this and we see a lot of potential.

Do you see AI becoming more important?

Yes, AI is already part of our life also in transportation. Another thing we are doing with AI is crowd detection. Covid has highlighted this need. With AI, it is possible to adapt existing CCTV cameras to determine the level of bus occupancy. You can also use AI to detect people entering the bus – for example, a child or a senior citizen. Operators can use this information to personalise the passenger experience.

What about ticketing?

Digitalisation is one of the big drivers – everything is moving to the smartphone, which is the heart of our lives now. The ability to accept smartphone payments is becoming vital. There is also a need to accommodate Be-In/Be-Out (BIBO) and new hands-free methods of validation based on AI, GPS and Bluetooth. Ticketing is a key area of expertise for us and it is an integral part of our solution. 

What part does vehicle telematics play in TRANSCITY™ Fleet?

Telematics is about tracking vehicles and monitoring performance. We manage this and we have developed KPIs with our partners. We can monitor harsh braking and acceleration, for example. This can be used to provide driver feedback and optimise the passenger experience in terms of ride quality and safety. Real-time performance information also helps drivers to reduce fuel or energy consumption. With diesel-powered buses, the saving is 6-10%. But with electric buses, it can be as much as 10-20%. 

Does electrification make fleet management more important?

Yes. Electric buses are relatively new. Many drivers have grown up with diesel vehicles. Now they are being put in the driving seat of a brand new e-bus. Training and experience are essential to fully benefit from electrification, and telematics can help with this. There is also the question of battery management. Operators need real-time data about battery charge status. They also need long-term data to optimise battery and vehicle health. Again, fleet management tools play a key role. 

Can you use AI to boost safety performance?

TRANSCITY™ Fleet incorporates two AI-driven tools for safety management. The Driver Monitoring System (DMS) is one of them. This uses AI and video cameras to generate an alarm if the driver is fatigued or distracted, so there are significant safety benefits. In addition, we can deploy Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) to further minimise human error. These solutions are powerful and they deliver measurable improvements.       

What background do you need to work in this area?

There are many ways in. I studied Telecommunications Engineering at university. Before coming to Thales, my professional experience included IPTV for broadband media. I also worked in the IoT sector. My experience in both of these areas is directly relevant to the work I am doing now. From IoT, I deepened my knowledge about sensors, networks and connectivity. And from IPTV, I learned about customer satisfaction and entertainment. The work I am doing now brings all of this together.

What advice do you have for someone who wants to work in your area?

The important thing is never to stop learning. You need to be curious and to be attracted by new technology and new opportunities. At Thales, you get the chance to learn about different areas and to interact with different experts and different people. It’s valuable and it can really open your mind. 

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

What I like about my job is that it has a tangible impact on the daily life of everyone. I also value the opportunity it gives me for mentoring and encouraging young engineers. At the same time, I believe strongly that we need to listen to young people because they are the leaders of tomorrow. They have a different perspective – and that is valuable.

Outside of work, what motivates you?

My weekdays are very busy, so it is very important for me to take a break at the weekend with my family and friends. My passion is soccer. And I really enjoy scialpinismo – ski mountaineering. 

What’s your favourite journey?

After I graduated, I took a couple of Interrail trips. It was a great way to travel and to visit new places without having to do too much planning. I’d love to do it again – maybe to explore eastern and northern Europe by train.