Long-distance passengers travelling between Gauteng, Limpopo and the Eastern Cape will encounter newer coaches as 17 new City to City buses enter service this October. Transport Minister Barbara Creecy launched the fleet in Pretoria on 15 October 2026. 

According to Creecy’s published remarks, these are the operation’s first new long-distance coaches since 2010, marking a substantial step in renewing its ageing fleet.

What Passengers Can Expect

The new coaches have features that could make hours on the road more comfortable:

• Reclining seats
• Onboard toilets
• Air conditioning
• Wi-Fi and charging points

The fleet will serve long-distance routes connecting Gauteng with the Eastern Cape and Limpopo, according to reporting from the launch. 

Safety equipment includes lane assistance, following-distance monitoring and vehicle stability systems. Creecy said drivers would receive monitoring and targeted training, with a control centre overseeing incidents along the routes. 

More Coaches Are Planned

The 17 buses form the first stage of a larger renewal programme. PRASA plans to add 30 coaches in 2027/28 and 48 in 2028/29, bringing the programme to 95 modern coaches, with completion targeted for 2030.

Those additional purchases remain planned. The current development is the introduction of the first 17 vehicles. 

Before You Book

The fleet announcement does not mean every City to City departure will use a new coach. When arranging a trip, confirm:

• Your departure and arrival points.
• The fare and luggage allowance.
• Whether the new coach is allocated to your chosen service, particularly if its facilities influence your booking.

The Bottom Line

Charging a phone, reclining a seat and having a toilet onboard are practical comforts on a long journey. The new buses offer a welcome improvement, but passengers should check the details of their specific departure before paying.