In the first ten months of 2025, the Ukrainian bus market showed steady recovery and demand. From January to October, 2,113 buses and minibuses were registered in Ukraine — 28% more than in the same period of 2024. This indicates that passenger transport operators, municipalities and private carriers are gradually renewing their fleets despite wartime constraints and higher operating costs.
New vs used: two parallel markets
Out of 2,113 registered vehicles:
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1,046 were brand-new buses and minibuses (12% more than a year earlier);
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1,067 were used vehicles imported and registered in Ukraine (50% more than a year earlier).
This structure shows a clear trend: while operators still buy new equipment, the segment of used buses is growing faster. For many regional and suburban carriers, used European buses remain a more affordable way to expand routes or replace outdated transport.
October dynamics
In October alone, 225 buses and minibuses were added to the Ukrainian fleet, which is 5% less than in October 2024. At the same time, the share of new vehicles in October was 49%, while a year earlier it was 57%. This means that the month’s structure shifted slightly toward used buses — probably due to price sensitivity and the ability to bring in specific models from the EU.
Domestic producers are holding the lead
Among new Ukrainian-made buses in October, the top positions were taken by:
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Ataman – 39 units,
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ZAZ – 29 units,
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Etalon – 14 units.
This is an important signal for the local automotive industry: even with competition from imported equipment, Ukrainian brands keep their place in the market thanks to suitable configurations for city, school and regional transport, as well as simpler service and parts.
Used imports: Europe is still the main source
Among imported used buses, the top three looked like this:
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Mercedes-Benz – 45 units,
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SOR – 21 units,
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Volkswagen – 11 units.
These brands are typical for European municipal and intercity fleets, so their appearance in Ukraine suggests that companies and communities continue to replenish transport from EU secondary markets — often getting better comfort and safety classes at a lower entry price.
Why this matters for the market
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Growth of 28% year-on-year means the segment is alive and reacting to transport demand inside the country.
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A nearly 50/50 split between new and used vehicles shows that both premium and budget segments have buyers.
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The presence of Ukrainian producers in the top confirms that local assembly and service still have economic logic — especially for public procurement, school routes and utility transport.
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For investors and suppliers, these figures signal that transport renewal programs, humanitarian vehicle supplies, municipal leasing and after-sales services will remain relevant in 2025–2026.
