Events
3 Things We Heard at CTA’s 60th Annual Fall Conference & Expo
The 2025 California Transit Association (CTA) Fall Conference & Expo was a crucial event for anyone steering the future of public transit. Our Model 1 team was there, tracking the most pressing sessions on electrification mandates, critical federal funding, and the shift toward AI-powered fleet management. The insightful conversations we had about the challenges and opportunities you face every day illuminated the hot topics for transit entities in the year to come. Here’s what we heard:
what you need to know to stay ahead of the curve:
1. The Funding Window for Zero-Emission is Wide Open
The main takeaway for fleet planning is financial: The path to electrification is paved with incentives. The focus is not just on California’s strict ZEV regulations and ICT compliance, but on cost-effective electrification strategies. We heard intensive discussions on optimizing energy infrastructure, leveraging microgrids, and securing the significant grant and voucher funding available now.
Need state or federal grant support? Our team of specialists is here for you.
2. Policy Focus: Reauthorization and Local Funding
All eyes are on the federal level, with key sessions offering insights into the 2026 reauthorization of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). This legislation will be crucial for maintaining public transit funding for years to come and will directly impact organizations like yours. Simultaneously, local agencies are being trained on effective ballot measure strategies and funding campaigns to build local support and revenue.
Related Read: EL ARCA Saves Millions to Reinvest in the Community with Ford E-Transits from Model 1
3. The Future of Fleet Management is Powered by AI and Data
Technology is reshaping how fleets operate, moving beyond simple telematics. Key sessions focused on integrating AI in transit operations for predictive maintenance, route optimization, and resource allocation. This shift means fleet management is becoming far more proactive, data-driven, and efficient. Multiple industry leading entities, including NTEA, have shared expectations to see more emerging technologies supporting the adoption of AI in 2026.
As the uncertainties of 2025 begin to level off, we explore The Future of Commercial Vehicles: Understanding New U.S. Tariffs.
