BKV's modern, air-conditioned maximidi bus fleet, tailored to Budapest's needs – is now complete. As of February 5, all 65 Mercedes Benz Citaro K vehicles, featuring low floor, up-to-date comfort and safety equipment, have been put into service in the capital. With the arrival of the new buses, almost ten percent of the bus fleet has been renewed.

Following the successful completion of BKV's procurement, the 65th maximidi bus entered service in Budapest this morning. The newest vehicles are already in operation on 29 lines. Passengers can use them on lines 15, 27, 39, 65, 65A, 102, 117, 121, 128, 129, 137, 165, 183, 185, 193E, 217, 237, 243, 251, 251A, 251E, and on weekends only on lines 57, 87, 87A, 118, 160, 187, 257, 260, with buses specifically optimized for Budapest's topography and downtown conditions.

The aim of the procurement launched in 2023 was to replace aging EURO 2-3 classified vehicles with models that can operate efficiently and reliably in the narrow city center and hilly streets. The buses were acquired by BKV under a long-term lease arrangement, which has the advantage of spreading costs over time and making them predictable, while the owner bears the risks associated with the renovation, insurance, and other aspects of high-value assets, and BKV receives contractual availability and maintenance services.

The technical specifications of the new buses were prepared based on the guidance of BKV experts to best meet the needs of passengers and the specific characteristics of Budapest traffic. Since October, several vehicles have already covered more than 10,000 kilometers, and experience gained over almost four months shows that the maximidi buses consume noticeably less fuel than their counterparts of the same size, while remaining stable in everyday operation.

The Mercedes Benz Citaro K is a 10.63-meter-long, two-door, fully low-floor bus, which is ideal for the narrow hilly and downtown streets due to its maximum size, while its capacity and comfort exceed the classic "midi" category. The model is equipped with a BlueTEC EURO VI E environmental class 7.7-liter OM936 diesel engine, LED exterior and interior lighting, air-conditioned passenger compartment, and USB charging points. The bus is equipped with a camera system and modern passenger information system, which work in coordination with FUTÁR (Budapest Passenger Information System).

The lease agreement also provides for the option to purchase an additional 20 maximidi buses, and BKV has also prepared further public procurement tenders to renew its bus fleet as far as possible and replace outdated, high-mileage vehicles with comfortable, reliable and environmentally friendly buses.

BKV Zrt.

February 5, 2026