Hitachi Rail has completed its acquisition of Clever Devices, a U.S.-based provider of Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) serving transit agencies across North America, Europe, and South America.

The acquisition expands Hitachi Rail's presence beyond rail into multimodal public transportation while strengthening its North American footprint. Clever Devices, which is projected to generate more than $220 million in revenue in 2026, provides fleet management, passenger information, and operational technologies used by eight of the 10 largest transit agencies in North America.

Hitachi Rail said Clever Devices' onboard and centralized data solutions will complement its HMAX Mobility platform, which uses AI, sensors, and digital asset management to improve transportation system performance. The combined technologies are intended to help agencies optimize operations, improve service reliability, and enhance the passenger experience across bus and rail networks.

"This is a key step in advancing our strategy to drive the digital transformation of public transport," said Giuseppe Marino, group CEO of Hitachi Rail. "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 acquisition, Frank Antonysamy has been appointed CEO of Clever Devices. He most recently served as chief growth officer at Hitachi Digital, where he led the launch of Hitachi's Industrial AI portfolio.

“Joining Clever Devices at this important moment is a great opportunity,” Antonysamy said. “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.”

The acquisition follows other recent North American investments by Hitachi Rail, including the opening of a $110 million digital factory in Hagerstown, Maryland, and an investment in a new Canadian headquarters.