Transport Technology & Ai 2026, the third event in this popular series, will bring together public and private sector professionals to showcase the latest developments in artificial intelligence (AI) and transport technologies for the transport and planning sectors.

We are expanding the scope of the event this year to include a Transport Technology Innovation Showcase for the Midlands and beyond, bringing together local authorities, operators, innovators, and academic partners to explore practical applications of new technologies. The afternoon sessions will feature demonstrations, themed case studies and opportunities to highlight best practice and show how to make the best use of emerging solutions.

How new technologies are transforming transport

The Government recognises that technology is a key enabler in tackling current and future transport challenges – congestion, fares and ticketing, decarbonisation, pay per mile road charging, asset management, electrification, Connected and Autonomous Mobility, fleet optimisation, shared vehicles, dynamic parking and many more – and that local and transport authorities will be required to harness emerging technologies in order to deliver the integrated, multi-modal transport network that the UK needs in order to prosper and grow.

It is keen to provide new financial resources to empower them to align with broader decarbonisation, adaptation, economic and social objectives. Funding sources include the £104 million Local Transport Grant (LTG) for local authorities starting in 2026-2027, £150 million for Connected and Automated Mobility (CAM) projects through the CAM Pathfinder programme, and the £1.8 million Freight Innovation Fund for decarbonising freight.

Transport Technology and AI 2026 will support transport and planning professionals to harness the innovative new solutions that are enhancing the efficiency of local and regional transport provision, and promote dialogue between suppliers, councils and local authority decision-makers.

Transport Technology and AI 2026 will feature key presentations, expert panels, case studies and demo sessions, including:

• Where we are with AI – next steps in the DfT AI ambition plan

• Managing risk and successful adoption of AI and transport technology – including case studies and insights from the State of AI in UK Transport 2025

• Supporting public sector organisations to buy and use AI and transport technology solutions responsibly

• How data is transforming transport by enhancing efficiency, operations, safety, and user experience

• A Transport Technology Innovation Showcase to highlight the products, tools and services available in the marketplace

• Ask the Experts sessions on how the technologies of today and tomorrow can be best developed and deployed