BKV only puts buses in service that are in a satisfactory technical condition. The vehicles undergo regular technical revisions – daily, weekly, quarterly, and annually. The continuous inspection of the buses and the full compliance with passenger and vehicle safety aspects are independent of the examination performed by the Government Office of the Capital City Budapest.

BKV specialists work every day to ensure that the aging vehicle fleet provides passengers with reliable, safe service. The company checks the rolling stock every day; no bus that would pose a danger to anyone should leave the garages. The vehicles also undergo weekly, quarterly, and annual technical inspections. The company’s specialists immediately take care of any repairs that are discovered and necessary.

According to BKV’s experience, the optimal maximum lifespan for buses is 8-10 years. Although the average age of the fleet is decreasing thanks to the company’s fleet rejuvenation strategy, currently, it is still 12.8 years. More than 200 buses are over 20 years old. BKV and the city government agree that technical defects and maintenance costs can only be reduced by purchasing new vehicles.

The transport company has already taken the old, high-floor buses out of service. Within a few months, the company will receive new, brand-new buses under a lease. The first vehicles in the contingent shall be put into service at the end of the year. The 65 new buses will replace 8 percent of the entire rolling stock. BKV is preparing to lease another 80-100 buses, and the company has a valid purchase contract for another 76 new buses. Until the new vehicles are put into the traffic, BKV is further developing the protocols for forced over-operation – with the involvement of universities. 

Last week, the Government Office of the Capital City Budapest ordered a comprehensive technical inspection of all BKV buses operating in the capital city. BKV is continuously correcting the malfunctions reported by the authority.