On August 26, a truly innovative transport service was launched in Budapest: the 274 "Csobajbusz," which connects the Cinkota HÉV station and the Csobaj-bánya area in District XVI, and which Mobilissimus contributed to as a project partner. Its novelty lies in its flexibility compared to the usual demand-driven bus services, as its route is always tailored to the needs of passengers.
Project background: DREAM_PACE and social dialogue
The new line was created as part of the European Union-supported DREAM_PACE (Demand REsponsive trAnsport integrating regional Mobility networks for PAssengers in Central Europe) project, a three-year research and development initiative aimed at improving transport in peripheral, less densely populated areas.
The planning of bus line 274 involved extensive public consultation, with Mobilissimus supporting BKK as a project partner. In the autumn of 2024, the final form of the line was determined with the involvement of the public through online questionnaires and face-to-face forums. In addition to preparing and processing the public questionnaires, we were also present in the field: we tested the system during the testing of possible route variants, during its introduction, and then during its operation, and we continue to test it and make suggestions for incorporating our experiences and further development.
Flexible route, always adapted to current needs
Rather than following fixed routes, Csobajbusz uses intelligent software to optimise its route based on passenger bookings. This allows it to serve emerging needs more efficiently, reducing empty runs and harmful emissions. Passengers can book their trips online (csobajbusz.bkk.hu) at any time, from one week in advance to 30 minutes before departure at the latest. Passengers can book their trips online (csobajbusz.bkk.hu) at the earliest one week and at the latest 30 minutes before departure, by phone through BKK Customer Service (+36 1 3 255 255), or in person at least 2 minutes before departure at the Cinkota HÉV station, with the driver. The service typically departs from the terminal station twice an hour, aligned with the arrival of the HÉV trains, at specific times, However, arrival times at other points along the route may vary by approximately 10 minutes, depending on the number of stops on a given route, but passengers will receive accurate notification of the bus's arrival.
Target area: Csobaj-bánya and surrounding area
The new line increases network coverage in the Csobaj-bánya area, where a number of new real estate developments - family houses, apartment buildings, shops, kindergartens - have been completed in recent years, but previously this area was difficult to reach by public transport. Now, however, it has a faster and more convenient connection to Cinkota and from there to the city center. Taking into account the suburban nature of the area, only minibuses operate on the line and instead of built-up stops, they stop at so-called pick-up points. This is also a new solution in domestic public transport.
The trial period will last until January 31, 2026, and based on the experience gained during this period, a decision will be made on the further operation of the service and its subsequent extension to other lines and districts. The experience of the first few days shows that passengers are well informed and many are already using the service.
Overall, although there will certainly be elements that need to be fine-tuned based on the experiences of the trial period, the Csobajbusz is a milestone in Budapest's public transport system. It offers a flexible, sustainable, passenger-friendly, and yet economical solution for serving a developing but hitherto difficult-to-reach area.
