Budapest’s iconic green bikes are making a comeback as the next-generation MOL Bubi public bike-sharing system begins rolling out across the Hungarian capital.

The Budapest Transport Centre (BKK) has launched a closed testing phase for the new system, with public trials scheduled for July before the service becomes fully available later in the summer. The upgraded scheme promises a significantly larger fleet, the introduction of electric bicycles and several new digital features.

Green bikes return to Budapest streets

From 19 June, residents and visitors can once again spot the familiar green MOL Bubi bicycles across Budapest. BKK has started a limited testing period designed to fine-tune the system based on real-world feedback before the official launch.

According to BKK, users with a valid BudapestGO travel pass will be invited to test the new service free of charge during July after completing a pre-registration process. Participants will receive detailed instructions and access information via email.

The full public launch is expected during the second half of July.

Thousands of new bicycles, including e-bikes

The new MOL Bubi represents a major expansion of Budapest’s public cycling network. At launch, the system will feature approximately 3,300 bicycles, including:

  • 2,500 standard bicycles
  • 800 electric-assist bicycles

BKK plans to expand the fleet further in the coming years, aiming for at least 5,000 bicycles. The introduction of e-bikes is expected to make cycling accessible to a broader range of users, including commuters who may have previously found Budapest’s terrain or longer journeys challenging.

New app features and reservations

The updated MOL Bubi mobile application introduces several improvements, including a bicycle reservation feature. Users will be able to reserve a specific bike for up to ten minutes, preventing situations where someone else takes the bicycle before they arrive at the station.

The bicycles are equipped with smart locks and can be unlocked directly through the app. Users will also receive ride summaries showing journey duration, distance travelled, estimated calories burned and carbon emissions saved.

Pricing and discounts

According to information published by Telex after testing, monthly subscriptions are expected to cost:

  • HUF 2,500 for standard MOL Bubi bicycles (EUR 7)
  • HUF 3,500 for electric MOL Bubi bicycles (EUR 10)

Passengers holding a valid BKK travel pass through the BudapestGO app will receive a 20% discount, reducing monthly fees to HUF 2,000 (EUR 5.7) and HUF 2,800 (EUR 8), respectively. Annual subscriptions will also be available.

Electric bike users will pay an additional HUF 250 (EUR 0.7) unlocking fee per ride, while the per-minute usage charge remains HUF 60 (EUR 0.17) for both bicycle types.

More flexible parking

One of the most significant changes is the introduction of GPS-based parking zones. Initially, bicycles can be picked up and returned at the existing 222 MOL Bubi stations. From September, users will also be able to leave bikes at approximately 500 designated Mobi-points throughout the city, many of which are already used by shared e-scooter operators.

The system will use GPS technology instead of traditional docking stations, allowing greater flexibility while ensuring bicycles remain within approved parking areas.

Strategic partners remain onboard

Energy company MOL Group continues as the naming sponsor and strategic partner of the scheme. Meanwhile, Mastercard has joined as a new digitalisation partner. BKK officials say the partnership will support the long-term development of sustainable urban mobility in Budapest while making cycling more accessible and convenient for residents and visitors alike.

The original MOL Bubi system was launched in 2014 and has become one of Budapest’s most recognisable transport services. The new generation aims to build on that success with more bicycles, better technology and a significantly expanded network.

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