MAN and Deutsche Bahn sign framework agreement for over 3,000 buses

MAN Truck & Bus reports a long-term framework agreement with Deutsche Bahn for more than 3,000 buses from 2027 to 2032, with a strong focus on electric vehicles.

MAN Truck & Bus and Deutsche Bahn have concluded the largest bus contract in MAN’s history. The framework agreement covers the period from 2027 to 2032 and includes the delivery of more than 3,000 buses for DB Regio operations across Germany. MAN has been awarded the role of main supplier, underlining its central position in the renewal of the country’s largest regional bus fleet.

A defining feature of the agreement is the high share of fully electric vehicles. Both MAN and Deutsche Bahn highlight electric buses as a cornerstone of future public transport. The contract includes city and intercity models such as the MAN Lion’s City, MAN Lion’s City E and MAN Lion’s Intercity LE, giving DB Regio a broad portfolio of vehicles for different route profiles and operational requirements.

The partnership between MAN and Deutsche Bahn dates back to 2010 and has already resulted in the delivery of almost 5,000 buses. The new framework agreement significantly expands this cooperation and secures it on a long-term basis. The vehicles will be deployed by DB Regio throughout Germany, making the contract highly relevant not only for the industry but also for passengers.

The industrial dimension of the deal is also being emphasised. Most of the buses will come from a Munich-based manufacturer, a point Deutsche Bahn describes as positive for Germany as an industrial location. According to industry reports, the vast majority of vehicles under the framework agreement are attributed to MAN, with a smaller share allocated to other manufacturers.

The strong focus on electric buses aligns with Deutsche Bahn’s publicly stated climate objectives. The group aims to achieve climate neutrality and has been steadily increasing the share of zero-emission vehicles in its regional transport operations. Previous projects already introduced electric buses and charging infrastructure at depots, and the new agreement with MAN signals a further acceleration of this strategy in the coming decade.

For MAN, the contract represents a major milestone. It not only strengthens the company’s position in its home market but also highlights the growing importance of electric buses in public transport. Combined with the long delivery horizon, the agreement stands out as one of the key projects shaping the future of regional bus mobility in Germany.