The city council of Vilnius has launched a tender for 145 electric buses as part of its long-term plan to transition all public transport vehicles to electricity or alternative fuels by 2030. The new fleet will not only replace aging diesel buses but also support the expansion of public transport services and improve frequency across the Lithuanian capital.
“Vilnius public transport is rapidly modernizing – new electric buses will provide more sustainable and efficient mobility for the city,” said Vilnius Mayor Valdas Benkunskas. “Less pollution, quieter commutes, and greater comfort – these are the changes expected by Vilnius residents. Investment in this area is our clear direction, striving for a cleaner and more innovative city.”
See also: Transdev Secures Dutch Transport Concession, VDL to Supply 42 Electric Buses
The city plans to introduce seven new public transport routes while increasing service frequency on 44 existing routes. Additionally, 46 routes will undergo adjustments to improve efficiency, with buses running every 6 to 10 minutes in the city center and every 15 minutes in outer districts. The total fleet size is set to grow by 30%.
Vilnius estimates the procurement cost for the 145 electric buses at €89 million (excluding VAT), with an additional €8 million allocated for mandatory maintenance services, bringing the total investment to €97 million. Contracts with selected suppliers are expected to be finalized in the third quarter of 2024, with deliveries scheduled for 2026 and 2027.
See also: First Bus Opens Region’s First Electric Bus Depot in Weston-Super-Mare
Alongside battery-electric buses, Vilnius is expanding its trolleybus network. In 2023, municipal operator VVT received 91 Škoda 32 Tr battery trolleybuses, capable of traveling up to 20 kilometers without overhead lines. Seventy-five of these are already in operation, with the remaining units set to enter service soon. The city now plans to acquire 73 additional trolleybuses as part of a second-phase modernization effort.
Lithuania’s national government is actively supporting the electrification of public transport through funding for electric buses and charging infrastructure, reinforcing Vilnius’ shift toward sustainable mobility.
