Liverpool Cruise Port has recently taken delivery of two brand new, fully electric Karsan e-JEST buses, a welcome and well-timed addition that marks another positive step in the port's journey towards a cleaner, quieter and more sustainable operation. Liverpool Cruise Port
At Busworld Europe 2025, BMC unveiled its next-generation PROCITY+ 12M and 18M models, alongside the compact NEOCITY 8.5M EV. Developed in partnership with KIEPE, these vehicles aim to bring practical, zero-emission solutions to urban networks across Europe and beyond. But are they just more electric buses, or genuinely smarter options for operators? Let’s take a closer look.
Tom Harrison (Bus Ambasasador)
PROCITY+ 12M EV: compact, capable, connected
The PROCITY+ 12M EV is BMC’s answer to city operators seeking a reliable electric bus with fast charging and a decent daily range. Co-developed with KIEPE, the battery and charging systems are compatible with CCS2 plugs and pantographs for flexibility in depots and on-route top-ups.
Key specs
Parameter
Value
Notes
Battery capacity
362–434 kWh
NMC technology, two options
Range
350–450 km
Urban conditions, depends on load and driving style
Charging
2–2.5 h standard DC, 1 h fast charge
20–80% state of charge
Length
12 m
Single-deck urban bus
Power
Not specified
Electric traction system
Highlights
Zero emissions, comfortable interiors, practical charging
Designed for city networks
PROCITY+ 18M EV: longer, heavier, still electric
The 18-metre articulated PROCITY+ EV takes the same core concept and stretches it for high-capacity urban corridors. LFP battery options from 466 kWh to 704 kWh provide longer ranges, while fast charging keeps turnaround times reasonable.
Key specs
Parameter
Value
Notes
Battery capacity
466–704 kWh
LFP technology, multiple options
Range
Varies with load
Urban operation
Charging
3 h standard DC, 1.5 h fast charge
20–80% state of charge
Length
18 m
Articulated bus
Power
Not specified
Electric traction system
Highlights
High-capacity urban transport, practical charging
Suitable for busy corridors
NEOCITY 8.5M EV: small but nimble
The NEOCITY 8.5M EV targets tighter urban streets. Equipped with a TM4 SUMO MD3000 permanent magnet asynchronous motor, it delivers 235 kW of peak power and has an impressively tight turning radius thanks to its independent front axle design.
BMC
Key specs
Parameter
Value
Notes
Battery capacity
198–264 kWh
Extended range for compact urban routes
Power
235 kW max
Permanent magnet asynchronous motor
Length
8.5 m
Small city bus footprint
Turning radius
Smallest in class
Independent front axle
Highlights
High manoeuvrability, electric drive, zero emissions
London has passed a major green transport milestone with more than 2,000 zero-emission buses now in service across the capital – the largest such fleet in Western Europe. The achievement reflects a sharp increase from just 30 zero-emission buses in 2016 and reinforces Transport for London’s (TfL) target to deliver a fully zero-emission bus fleet by 2030. Transport for London Building a Cleaner, Smarter Bus Network The milestone was marked with the launch of the capital’s newest fully electric route, the 337 between Clapham Junction and Richmond, operated by Transport UK. The route is now served by a fleet of 12 new Wrightbus Electroliners, operating every 10 minutes. The introduction of the 337 means two in every nine buses in London are now zero-emission – or more than 20 per cent of the city’s iconic red bus fleet. Since 2021, all new vehicles joining the network have been zero-emission. In addition to helping London reach net zero carbon by 2030, these buses are cutting harmful po...
Say hello to the all-new Strata – Mellor’s latest showstopper in the small bus world. It’s smarter, more accessible and packed with fresh features to make every journey smoother, greener and comfier. And yes, it’s still built right here in the UK. Mellor Bus Since its debut in 2016, the original Strata has earned its stripes as a reliable workhorse – now it’s back with a vengeance, ready to shake up the sector all over again. If you thought small buses were all the same, think again. Accessibility, meet ambition First up: big wins for accessibility. The reworked rear saloon now has just one step up from the low-floor section (down from two), reducing trip hazards and making things safer for everyone onboard. Passengers also get an extra 100mm of headroom – that’s a whole lot less crouching and a lot more comfort. Mellor Bus The low-floor area’s been stretched by 266mm, making space for four extra seats. In fact, there’s now room for up to twelve seats in the low-floor area alone – p...
Reliance Motor Services has been a cornerstone of Yorkshire life for nearly a century, but come January 2025, the baton will pass to Transdev, a heavyweight in public transport across Europe. As Transdev’s York and Country team gears up to take over Reliance’s routes and buses, it’s worth taking a moment to look back at the rich history of this much-loved local operator.
Comments
Post a Comment
We welcome your thoughts and encourage open discussion but please keep comments respectful, relevant and considerate of others. Offensive, abusive or spam content will be removed and repeat offenders may be blocked. Let’s keep this space friendly and constructive for everyone.