Budapest’s Public Transportation is Getting Greener
Budapest’s public transport is getting an incredible summer upgrade that’ll make your visit even more enjoyable! The city has always been pretty good about keeping travelers comfortable, but these shiny new buses rolling up are taking things to a whole new level. So download the BudapestGO app and hop on board and experience the difference!
The Cool Factor Just Got Cooler
Budapest has always been ahead of the game when it comes to air conditioning on public transport, and now they’re making it even better! These brand-new Mercedes Citaro buses are equipped with powerful air conditioning systems that’ll keep you perfectly comfortable while you travel between the city’s amazing attractions. The city has doubled the number of climate control checks across buses, trolleys, trams, and metro lines because they’re serious about keeping you cool and comfortable.
Here’s what’s really impressive: 98% of Budapest’s buses and trolleys already have air conditioning, while the M2 and M4 metro lines are 100% climate-controlled. Even the trams are fantastic, with over 60% featuring proper cooling systems. It’s clear the entire city has made your comfort a top priority – and as a tourist, you’ll absolutely appreciate this level of care.
Your Phone Will Stay Charged All Day
Every Instagram-loving traveler is going to absolutely love this: USB charging ports on every new bus! No more worrying about your phone battery dying while you’re capturing those perfect shots of the Parliament building or navigating with Google Maps. Whether you’re catching up on shows during your ride to the thermal baths or staying connected while heading to a ruin pub, your device will stay powered up throughout your entire Budapest adventure.
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Safety Technology That Actually Works
The new Mercedes buses feature something called the Sideguard Assist system – advanced radar technology that monitors the areas around the vehicle. This brilliant safety feature helps drivers spot pedestrians, cyclists, and obstacles in their blind spots. With Budapest’s vibrant street life around popular tourist areas like Váci Street or the Great Market Hall, this technology provides excellent protection for everyone sharing the road.
These buses also come with onboard cameras and modern passenger information systems, making your journey not just safer but more informative. You’ll always know exactly where you are and what’s coming up next on your route – perfect for tourists getting to know the city.
Green Technology That Makes Sense
Here’s where things get really impressive: these new Citaro buses have a regenerative braking system that’s both clever and environmentally friendly. When the bus slows down, it converts that braking energy into electricity, storing it in supercapacitors. When the bus accelerates again, this stored energy powers the onboard electrical systems, reducing engine load and cutting fuel consumption. It’s like having a smart hybrid system designed specifically for city driving.
The environmental benefits keep getting better. These buses run on Euro VI diesel engines, which produce significantly fewer emissions than older models. You can enjoy exploring Budapest knowing you’re contributing to cleaner city air – something you’ll definitely notice when you’re strolling through the fresh air of Margaret Island after your comfortable bus ride.
Where You’ll Experience These Amazing Buses
Starting July 31st, you’ll first encounter these 142 modern Mercedes diesel buses on routes 8E and 133E. These routes are fantastic for tourists because they connect the city center with fascinating outer districts like Újpalota and charming Buda neighborhoods including Budafok, Nagytétény, and Gazdagrét. Route 8E runs along the convenient Rákóczi Street and Thököly Street corridor, making it incredibly easy to travel between central Budapest and these interesting outer areas.
The expansion continues through spring 2026, with these new buses gradually appearing on additional routes throughout the city, including numerous lines in southern Budapest. You’ll eventually find them serving areas like Csepel, Soroksár, and Pesterzsébet – perfect if you’re planning to explore some of Budapest’s authentic neighborhoods or need comfortable transport to accommodations in the outer districts.
A Transportation Revolution You’ll Love
Budapest’s commitment to excellent public transport is truly impressive. In just the past five years, the city has welcomed 360 new buses, 50 new trolleys, and 26 new CAF trams. Now we’re witnessing another exciting phase of fleet renewal that’s going to make your travel experience even better. By 2027, nearly 90% of Budapest’s bus fleet will consist of modern Euro 5 or newer engine technology vehicles. This means approximately 8,000 tons less harmful emissions will be released into Budapest’s air annually – creating a cleaner, more pleasant environment for everyone.
The complete package includes over 200 modern, air-conditioned, low-floor articulated and solo buses, plus special MaxiMidi category environmentally friendly diesel vehicles. These represent genuine improvements to how you’ll experience this beautiful city.
Electric Future Is Almost Here
By 2027, Budapest will have 70 completely electric buses in service – including 20 articulated buses, which is unique in Hungary. These zero-emission vehicles offer whisper-quiet, comfortable rides with spacious interiors and excellent air conditioning. You’ll find these electric buses primarily on routes crossing the city center and in central Buda areas.
The electric vehicle test versions might arrive as early as this summer or fall, with testing beginning in actual traffic conditions. This means you might get the exciting opportunity to ride one of these ultra-modern electric buses during your visit.
Smart City Solutions Everywhere
The city has thoughtfully expanded its Mobi-point network with 10 new locations where you can conveniently park shared and personal scooters and bikes. These well-designed green-marked zones help maintain organized, accessible streets while preventing blocked sidewalks. With nearly 1,000 locations now available throughout the city, you can safely and easily park your micro-mobility devices wherever your Budapest adventure takes you.
Quality Assurance You Can Count On
Budapest’s transport authority takes quality seriously, conducting hundreds of weekly inspections using calibrated, certified thermometers to ensure air conditioning systems work perfectly. When they identify any issues, they quickly notify service providers and use every available tool to ensure rapid improvements, including financial incentives for maintaining high standards. In June alone, they conducted nearly 1,000 inspections, and they’re maintaining this thorough pace through July.
Budapest is genuinely committed to making your travel experience as enjoyable as possible. Whether you’re heading to the stunning castle district, exploring the vibrant Jewish Quarter, or making your way to one of the city’s world-famous thermal baths, these excellent buses ensure your journey is just as pleasant as your destination. The fact that these modern vehicles are specifically designed to connect the city center with outer districts means you’ll have comfortable, reliable transport no matter how far your Budapest adventure takes you.
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