Trois-Rivières Transit (STTR), in a transformative project enabled by Ericsson enterprise technology, has successfully modernized its entire 65-bus fleet. The project replaced a complex web of proprietary hardware with a single, unified in-vehicle network platform. This new approach consolidates all critical onboard systems, including computer-aided dispatch/automatic vehicle location (CAD/AVL) from Systrans, passenger information displays, fare collection, and safety systems, into one ruggedized mobile router. The achievement sets a new standard for operational efficiency and reliability in public transit.
The project was driven by the need to replace an aging, unreliable technology infrastructure that was difficult to manage and dependent on costly, interlocked vendor systems. The new solution leverages Ericsson’s enterprise wireless solutions — backed by its intelligent cloud management platform, NetCloud Manager — which are designed to help organizations innovate and operate without constraints by providing flexible and secure 5G connectivity. With Quebec’s telecommunication providers decommissioning 3G networks, STTR’s legacy CAD/AVL system faced a shutdown, creating an urgent need for a fundamental change. The previous architecture resulted in untrustworthy data for operations supervisors and an inconsistent rider experience.
Working with engineering consultants, CIMA+ and CAD/AVL software provider Systrans, STTR pioneered an innovative approach centered on Ericsson's technology. The technical foundation of the solution is the Ericsson Cradlepoint R1900 Series 5G mobile router, which serves not only as a connectivity gateway but also as a powerful edge computing platform. Systrans containerized its Navineo CAD/AVL application to run directly within a Docker container on the router, completely eliminating the need for a separate, proprietary onboard computer. This open-architecture model, inspired by ITxPT principles, allows STTR to own and control its onboard technology ecosystem.
Julien Trépanier, Director of Planning and Development at Trois-Rivières Transit, says: “Our project proves that a more open, sustainable onboard architecture is achievable today. By reimagining the router as a central platform, we have minimized vendor lock-in and enabled integrations that are far easier to maintain. The router gives us a scalable, open foundation we control, and it’s just the first step in how we’ll evolve our fleet."
Jason Falovo, Vice President and General Manager, Canada at Ericsson Enterprise Wireless Solutions, says: “Trois-Rivières Transit has demonstrated a visionary approach to solving the challenges that nearly every transit agency faces. By leveraging the compute capabilities of our Ericsson Cradlepoint routers, they have created a blueprint for the future of fleet technology, one that is simpler, more reliable, and supports the day-to-day operations that help the business run. We are proud to have partnered with STTR, CIMA+, and Systrans to validate this powerful model for the entire industry.”
This achievement unlocks a future where technology updates and new features can be deployed through software rather than costly hardware replacements. Fleet-wide software updates that previously required physically visiting each bus with a USB stick can now be completed remotely in a single day using Ericsson’s NetCloud Manager. With reliable, real-time data, STTR can now offer accurate arrival information to riders and utilize a Transit Signal Priority (TSP) system to keep buses on schedule, significantly improving service quality.
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Customer story: One router, endless transit possibilities