AI in the SME sector: Speed over bureaucracy
AI as a competitive advantage: At BUS2BUS, Fabian Westerheide shows how transport and logistics companies use AI pragmatically to learn faster and boost success.
Fabian Westerheide, an expert in AI and digital transformation, will open BUS2BUS 2026 with a keynote speech on AI as competitive advantage in the bus industry. (C) Thomas Tiefseetaucher | Rise of AI
Fabian Westerheide will open the BUS2BUS stage programme on 15 April and provide practical insights into the use of artificial intelligence in small and medium-sized enterprises. As an investor, author and keynote speaker, he is one of the most prominent voices for AI and digital transformation in Europe. Under the title “AI in SMEs: Less bureaucracy. More speed.”, he will speak today, Wednesday, from 10.30 am to 11.00 am on the Future Forum Stage in Hall 25 about how companies can already put AI to work today – without large budgets or long lead times.
Using examples from transport and logistics, he highlights where rapid efficiency gains can be made and how processes can be improved immediately. At the same time, he assesses Europe’s strategic significance in the global AI race and outlines options for action for companies. The focus is on the question of how AI can be used not only technically, but above all strategically, to strengthen competitiveness. What matters is not being the first, but consistently implementing the right applications.
More than 100 sessions across four stages
Artificial intelligence and automated mobility are a key focus of BUS2BUS, the meeting place for leading players from transport, technology, industry and tourism. With more than a hundred sessions across four stages, the programme offers an international perspective on key developments in the sector.
Several sessions at the Future Forum will address the question of how significantly artificial intelligence and automated technologies are transforming public transport. Experts will examine the role autonomous buses could play in regular services in the future and how the technology interacts with new mobility offerings. ‘AI in Coach Tourism’, for example, demonstrates how intelligent systems influence travel planning, demand forecasting and customer communication.
DB Regio will discuss the potential of automated buses for improving mobility provision – particularly in rural areas – on the Deep Dive Stage. The technology company Ximedes, meanwhile, will demonstrate how AI-based on-board computer systems can better integrate passenger information, ticketing and operations management, making them more efficient.