De Lijn, the Flemish public transport operator, has signed a new framework agreement with Daimler Buses for up to 500 electric buses and simultaneously placed fresh orders with both Daimler Buses and BYD Europe.
The company has already committed to more than 80 Mercedes-Benz eCitaro units under the new agreement, leaving roughly 420 vehicles available for future procurement. The first deliveries are scheduled for the first quarter of 2027.
See also: Belgium’s De Lijn Awards 290 Electric Bus Contracts to BYD, Iveco and VDL, Eyes 500 More in 2025
In parallel, De Lijn has ordered 268 additional 12-metre electric buses from BYD Europe, with phased deliveries set to begin in the second quarter of 2027. This new order completes De Lijn’s utilisation of a 2023 framework agreement with BYD covering up to 500 e-buses.
The operator cites strong field performance of previously delivered units. “The initial operational experiences with the e-buses already delivered by BYD Europe have been positive. Therefore, De Lijn has decided to place a third order,” the company said.
The agreements support Flanders’ goal of achieving a fully zero-emission public transport system by 2035, including an interim target for all city buses to operate emission-free by 2025. De Lijn noted that such large-scale procurement is enabled by a €400-million investment from Flemish Minister for Mobility and Public Works Annick De Ridder. “Thanks to the additional 400 million euros, De Lijn will order over 630 new electric buses this year… modernise its services, and enhance its passenger offerings,” De Ridder said.
See also: Belgium’s De Lijn Expands Charging Network for E-Buses with €24.2 Million Order
De Lijn has already taken steps to expand its electric fleet through previous agreements with Iveco for up to 500 vehicles, as well as orders from MAN, VDL and Irizar.
CEO Ann Schoubs highlighted that all new buses from BYD and Daimler will be equipped with De Lijn’s now-standard specifications. “USB charging stations and an electric ramp for passengers with reduced mobility have been standard features for us for four years,” she said, adding that enhanced driver cabins and safety features have also become part of the operator’s baseline requirements.
