The purchase of modern KISS multiple-unit trains has opened a new chapter in Hungarian rail transport. These high-capacity, double-decker trains offer fast, comfortable and environmentally friendly travel, especially on suburban and tourist routes.
The developments focused on improving the passenger experience and supporting sustainable mobility. The 21 modern, high-capacity KISS trains, purchased with European Union co-financing under two separate projects, provide a comfortable alternative both for daily commuting and for longer regional journeys. Operating on lines with high passenger demand, the trains allow passengers to board and leave quickly while offering a modern travel environment. As a result, they soon became defining vehicles of modern suburban rail transport in Hungary.
Thanks to their double-decker design, the trains provide plenty of seats and a spacious, bright passenger area. Their exceptionally quiet running also raises the quality of the service. Large windows and an open, easy-to-navigate interior make journeys more comfortable, while the upper deck offers especially good views.
Passenger-friendly design was a key priority when the vehicles were developed. Step-free boarding, modern passenger information, air-conditioned interiors, ergonomic seats with power sockets for charging mobile phones and laptops, and wide doors all contribute to faster and more comfortable travel. For families, designated family seats marked with pictograms are an added benefit, making it easier for passengers travelling with small children to find suitable places.
KISS trains also play an important role in sustainable public transport. Their energy-efficient operation, the ability to make full use of their authorised speed of 160 km/h, and their high passenger capacity can all encourage more people to choose rail instead of travelling by car. According to the Hungarian State Railways (MÁV) Group, putting the full KISS fleet into service has not only brought a major capacity increase to Budapest’s suburban rail network, providing tens of thousands of new seats, but has also noticeably reduced travel times on the busiest suburban lines.
Supporting bicycle travel is another important part of the development. During this year’s summer and pre-season period, the MÁV Group is preparing for increased passenger demand with expanded bicycle transport capacity. Higher-capacity trains are operating on several routes to Lake Balaton and on other busy lines. In some directions, KISS trains are also helping to serve weekend and tourist traffic, especially around Lake Balaton and the Danube Bend.
Double-decker trains had not previously operated in Hungary, so this development represents a genuine step forward for domestic rail transport. The two railway development Pillar projects, worth a total of around HUF 135 billion, have raised the MÁV Group’s services to a new level.
The development was implemented from EU funding in the projects IKOP PLUSZ-2.1.0-23-2023-00001 and IKOP PLUSZ-2.2.0-23-2023-00001 under the Integrated Transport Development Operational Programme.
Find out more about the project in the Project Finder:Details, Details
