HERITAGE Vehicle identity for a historic underground line

The Underground (Line1) in Budapest, Hungary is a World Heritage Site. It was opened in 1896 and has been in operation ever since. The original electric motorcars were the first of their kind in the world. Designed by Siemens, they were very advanced, featuring a low floor chassis, automatic drive control and superbly crafted body.

The first cars stayed in operation until the early 70’s when a second generation successor was put in operation. Soon the replacement is inevitable again, so there is an opportunity to think about how to evolve an almost 120 year heritage.

A carefully managed design development could improve usability and foster the image of Budapest by recalling the spirit of the original travelling experience.

Photo: Bence Sprok