The rapid changes in global development scenarios, such as technological advancements, lifestyle decisions and climate change, call for updated transport models to test micro-level policy decisions. This paper explores the advances in activity-based transport modelling in simulating travel demand in urban scenarios, focusing on Sweden’s National Transport model. Sampers is used for impact analysis, investment calculations for traffic simulations, transport policy implementation evaluations, and accessibility and impact analysis of extensive changes in land use and transport systems in cities and regions of Sweden. This research systematically compares individual components, sub-models, and algorithms and discusses integrations with cutting-edge agent-based models. Furthermore, recent research and projects for Sampers are investigated, highlighting its advantages over current models, potential gaps and limitations, and long-term development prospects. The study concludes by cross-referencing Sampers’ global developments and regional needs to assess its long-term development prospects.