MAN Electric Buses Secure Largest Deutsche Bahn Order

On October 30, MAN electric buses became the focal point of Europe’s public transport transition as MAN Truck & Bus confirmed a landmark framework agreement with Deutsche Bahn in Germany. The contract covers the supply of more than 3,000 buses between 2027 and 2032, marking the largest bus order ever secured by the manufacturer and reinforcing its long-term commitment to sustainable mobility.
This large-scale deployment will support DB Regio AG’s regional transport operations across Germany, strengthening fleet modernization efforts while aligning with national and European decarbonization goals. The agreement reflects growing confidence among major mobility operators in electrified and low-emission bus technologies for both urban and intercity applications.
MAN electric buses to strengthen regional and urban transport
Under the agreement, MAN electric buses and low-emission models will be deployed across a wide range of use cases. For intercity services, MAN will deliver Lion’s Intercity LE buses in three different lengths, designed to balance passenger comfort with operational efficiency on longer regional routes.
Urban transport requirements will primarily be met by the MAN Lion’s City portfolio, a well-established platform widely used by European transit operators. This range is offered with multiple powertrain options, enabling Deutsche Bahn to tailor fleet configurations based on route profiles, infrastructure readiness, and operational cost targets.
Powertrain flexibility across the MAN portfolio
The MAN Lion’s City lineup supplied under this framework includes:

• Diesel variants optimized for fuel efficiency

• CNG models supporting reduced tailpipe emissions

• Hybrid configurations that improve energy recovery and lower consumption

This flexibility allows Deutsche Bahn to maintain service reliability while gradually increasing the share of electrified vehicles in its network.
Battery-electric MAN electric buses form a major share
A significant portion of the order will consist of battery-electric MAN electric buses dedicated to city operations. These zero-emission buses will be delivered in three standard lengths, each designed for specific operating conditions.

• 10-meter electric buses suited for narrow streets and lower passenger volumes

• 12-meter electric buses offering an optimal balance between capacity and maneuverability

• 18-meter articulated electric buses engineered for high-demand corridors and peak-hour traffic

This modular approach enables Deutsche Bahn to deploy the right vehicle size while maximizing energy efficiency and passenger throughput.
Supporting Germany’s zero-emission transport goals
The large-scale rollout of MAN electric buses highlights a broader shift in Germany’s public transport strategy, where fleet electrification is becoming central to reducing urban emissions, noise pollution, and lifecycle operating costs. For MAN Truck & Bus, the contract strengthens its position as a key supplier in Europe’s evolving electric bus market.
By combining proven vehicle platforms with scalable electric drivetrains, MAN is positioning itself to meet rising demand from public transport authorities seeking reliable, future-ready mobility solutions across both city and regional networks.