Through the purchase of low-emission, low-floor buses, the project is increasing the share of sustainable public transport options in Krakow, Poland.
Krakow commuters enjoy comfort of new low-emission bus fleet
- 29 August 2018
The project is a part of long-term strategy of our company and the city of Krakow aimed at developing ‘green’ public transportation and encouraging local society to switch from cars. Low-emission, modern, comfortable vehicles and good transportation allow for smooth connections in the area of the whole agglomeration and can be a competitive solution for individual transport.
The project aimed to increase the amount of low-emission public transportation available in Krakow, Poland by purchasing new, environmentally-friendly buses. In total, the project bought 107 new buses, 75 of which meet the Euro 6 emission standard, 12 hybrid models, and 20 electric buses with plug-in charging devices. As these new buses are added to the fleet, the less sustainable Euro 2 and Euro 3 buses have been retired. By the end of 2018, the city’s entire fleet will be comprised of buses of at least Euro 5 standard.
In 2018, the project also developed a short-time charging system consisting of five charging stations located throughout the city. Buses can use these stations to load their batteries at the final stop of their route.
Sustainable and comfortable
Both the diesel-fuelled and hybrid buses meet the highest standards for emissions, and the electric buses are completely emission-free. Each of the new buses are equipped with low floors, a state-of-the-art passenger information system, ticket vending machines and air conditioning. All of these enhanced features increase the attractiveness of Krakow’s public bus services, thus contributing to the economic development of one of Poland’s major economic centres.
The buses have also been adapted for use by people with disabilities, the elderly and those travelling with young children. For example, buttons are marked with brail for use by the visually impaired and each bus has seats designated for wheelchair users. The vehicles are also fitted with a range of safety and security features, such as internal and external monitoring systems and an emergency alarm that, when used, immediately contacts traffic control services.
An important step
Ultimately, the project is a big step towards achieving the city’s goals of lowering emissions, reducing air pollution and improving the quality of public transport services.
Krakow officials note that the project is very important for the region as low-emission buses operate not only in the city of Krakow, but also in 17 surrounding suburban areas – thus benefiting commuters too. As a direct result of project, all citizens of the Krakow area can enjoy a comfortable, safe and sustainable ride while knowing that their travel has a negligible impact on the environment.
Total investment and EU funding
Total investment for the project “The purchase of low-emission, low-floor buses and stationary ticket machines to serve local bus lines” is EUR 40 618 179, with the EU’s European Regional Development Fund contributing EUR 38 740 969 through the Malopolska Regional Operation Programme 2014-2020