Bălți, Moldova: smart bus network
The Challenge
Bălți, a city in Moldova, aims to gather vehicle and service-performance data to provide clear, reliable real-time information to passengers or/and for planning. The provider should demonstrate through the pilot that results will significantly improve user experience with public transport. The solution must:
- Implement at least a two week demonstration of a real‑time passenger‑information system on a selected corridor, using existing GPS data and low‑cost digital tools.
- Collect ridership and service‑performance data
- Increase passenger satisfaction with information reliability and overall service by 15%
Who can apply?
Who can apply?
The RAPTOR Open Call 2026 is open to single small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Proposals must be submitted by one legal entity only; consortia are not permitted.
Applicants must:
- Qualify as an SME under the European Commission definition
- Be legally established in an EU Member State or a Horizon Europe associated country
- Propose a solution addressing one RAPTOR 2026 City Challenge
Applicants may apply to multiple city challenges, but only one project can be funded per applicant.
For full requirements, visit the website.
Background
Bălți’s public transport system is experiencing declining reliability and ridership, while high car use continues to contribute to congestion and pollution. Although investments in cycling and pedestrian infrastructure have reduced car traffic, public transport services remain infrequent and unreliable on key corridors. An ageing bus and trolleybus fleet and the lack of integrated real-time data systems limit passenger confidence and service optimisation. Despite having on-street information panels and a mobility app, Bălți lacks the digital tools to convert vehicle data into accurate real-time passenger information. The city is therefore seeking data-driven solutions to improve service reliability, passenger trust, and route planning.
