HUNGARY
Arriva has been successful in its bid to be the first operator of an electric bus fleet in the Hungarian capital of Budapest, following the award of two new 12-year contracts by the Budapest Transport Centre (BKK) transport authority. The contracts were signed at a ceremony on 3 October.
Arriva plans to introduce a completely new bus fleet with 82 fully electric buses from the end of 2025, plus an option for a further 21. Both contract wins follow an investment made by Arriva in the electrification of its Andor depot, a programme which began more than two years ago and which is now able to service around 150 buses, which means Arriva can add to its fleet over the 12-year timeframe of the contract.
Arriva Group’s Managing Director for Mainland Europe Sian Leydon commented: “Our operation in Budapest is an important part of our European portfolio and I’m delighted that we have been recognised for our expertise and leadership in decarbonisation and awarded these two contracts. With 12 years ahead of us, we can invest with confidence and consolidate our position as the leading private bus operator in Hungary.”
The new buses are expected to significantly reduce air pollution. The low-floor fleet will include 58 rigid buses and 24 articulated buses, featuring enhanced driver features, including digital mirrors and heated seats. The contract comes into effect from 2026, and lasts until 2038, and replaces contracts already held by Arriva.
Arriva’s network in Budapest spans the northern part of the city as well as the East (Pest) and West (Buda) regions, either side of the River Danube. The company operates a fleet of around 450 vehicles, and is the only privately-owned service provider in Budapest, where it has operated since 1999.
