A new batch of 18-meter MAN buses has been officially presented in Tbilisi. The event was attended by Mayor Kakha Kaladze, Vice Mayor Giorgi Tkemaladze, Head of Tbilisi Transport Company Giorgi Sharkov, and Head of the Transport and Urban Development Agency Nino Bagashvili. According to the mayor, the buses will begin operating on city routes in stages starting September 27.
Kaladze noted that 200 units of the long buses, purchased last year, have already arrived in Tbilisi and are ready to serve passengers. He emphasized that the city has managed to completely renew its fleet with modern European-standard buses and minibuses in recent years. “One of the main challenges for our city is traffic jams, but we are doing everything to make public transport comfortable and efficient. That is why, based on studies, we are introducing bus lanes wherever possible,” Kaladze said.
The new 18-meter buses, purchased under an agreement between Tbilisi Transport Company and Tegeta Holding, run on compressed natural gas (CNG) and can accommodate 162 passengers, including 43 seats. They are fully adapted for people with disabilities, featuring wheelchair spaces, folding ramps, and modern climate-control systems. The buses also include voice information announcements, anti-vandal video monitoring, charging ports, Wi-Fi, and a fare management system.
So far, 76 buses have already been placed on several routes, with the remaining units to be gradually integrated into the network. The overall project, valued at EUR 111.1 million, aims to significantly improve the city’s transport system and passenger experience. Officials say the rollout will continue in stages until all 200 buses are in service across Tbilisi..
