Hitachi Rail entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Clever Devices, a U.S.-based provider of Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) for transit agencies worldwide.

Clever Devices, headquartered in Woodbury, New York, is recognized for its technology solutions that enhance fleet management, passenger experience, and operational efficiency for mass transit agencies. The company has offices located in the U.S., Europe, and South America.

Significant Step Forward for Hitachi Rail

The proposed acquisition of a company with deep digital expertise and expected 2026 revenues of over $220 million marks a significant step in Hitachi Rail’s strategy to operate as a leading global digital mobility player, the company said.

Upon completion, the business will extend its footprint from rail to multimodal mobility and strengthen 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 brings a robust portfolio and a proven track record of innovation and delivery.

Clever Devices’ solutions are deployed across public mobility, including buses and railway systems. Alongside its strength in North America, Clever Devices has achieved substantial growth in countries such as Brazil and Chile, as well as in Europe.

The Clever Devices Acquisition

Clever Devices’ portfolio of onboard and centralized data solutions will complement Hitachi Rail’s HMAX Mobility suite, bringing added functionality and benefits to customers across public transport worldwide, said company officials.

The acquisition of Clever Devices will enable Hitachi Rail to offer enhanced solutions that support the digital transformation of public transport beyond railways, optimize energy management, and contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. ​

In the Smart Mobility space, combining Clever Devices’ fleet management technology with Hitachi Rail’s Operation Control Centers will enable real-time multimodal solutions for urban public transport systems. This technology will enable connected, sustainable intermodal transport and support the transition to more sustainable, efficient transit systems, said company officials.

“This investment is an important milestone in our strategy to accelerate the digital transformation of public mobility,” said Giuseppe Marino, Group CEO. “Together, we will expand our capabilities beyond rail and deepen our presence in North America, supporting cities as they transition to more innovative and efficient transport networks.”

Hitachi Rail collaborated with SSIB, Hitachi’s Strategic Social Innovation Business Unit, on this agreement to acquire Clever Devices and jointly advance the One Hitachi initiative while exploring broader opportunities in the mobility sector.  

The transaction is subject to customary conditions and is expected to close later in the year upon receipt of regulatory approvals.