Warsaw has launched a tender for 120 new articulated buses that will serve daily city routes while also providing reliable evacuation and medical transport during crises.
Tender Overview
Warsaw announced a tender for 120 brand‑new articulated buses that will operate on city routes and, during emergencies, evacuate civilians and transport the wounded. The deadline for offers is September 16, with deliveries scheduled between October and December 2026.
Phased Acquisition and Capacity
The procurement is split into two sections of 60 buses each, each 18 m long. Bidders may submit offers for the whole order or one part. The contract includes an expansion option for an additional 50 buses per section, allowing the fleet to grow to 220 units if needed.
Design and Passenger Comfort
All units will feature low‑floor access, air conditioning, passenger‑information systems, wheelchair spaces, driver alcohol‑blocking controls, and solar panels with voltage converters to reduce power consumption and enhance reliability.
Accessibility and Inclusive Features
To improve inclusivity, buses include Braille‑printed buttons, ramp‑deployment signals, and a “kneeling” mode that lowers the bus body for easier boarding by those with limited mobility.
Civil Defense Modifications
Each bus is equipped with four casualty beds or stretchers and a simple mounting system, enabling rapid conversion from passenger to medical transport without specialized tools.
Funding and Civil Protection Alignment
The order supports Warsaw’s bid for funding under the 2025‑2026 National Human Protection and Civil Defense Program, aiming to bolster emergency response capabilities and ensure operational continuity in crises.
Urban Security and Preparedness
The dual‑purpose vehicles reflect Warsaw’s preparation for potential emergencies, including military scenarios, by building a reserve transport fleet capable of swift evacuation and support for public services.
Diesel Powertrain Decision
Choosing diesel engines ensures reliability during emergencies, allowing long‑distance travel and reducing dependence on electricity or charging infrastructure.
Bus Network Impact
The articulated buses will strengthen peak‑time service on high‑demand routes, improve fleet availability, and translate into higher punctuality and flexibility—while also being deployable for evacuation per crisis‑management plans.
Procurement Schedule
Offers are accepted until September 16. After evaluation and contract signing, deliveries are slated for Q4 2026 (October–December). Upon technical acceptance, buses will enter service with the City Bus Company.
Source: MiejskiReporter,