VinFast makes its European debut at Busworld
At Busworld, Vietnamese manufacturer VinFast took its first major step into Europe’s bus market, presenting not one but two electric models – the EB 8 and EB 12. The naming could not be simpler: the EB 8 stands for Electric Bus, 8 metres long while the EB 12 stretches to 12 metres.
Each bus integrates a full suite of advanced safety and driver assistance systems to ensure a smooth, safe and reliable experience for passengers, operators and other road users alike.
To keep maintenance straightforward, VinFast deliberately opted for familiar European components. A ZF AVE130 portal axle with twin 125 kW hub motors handles propulsion, Ventura doors ensure reliability and Ster seats provide the finishing touches inside. The EB 12 also features a full suite of ADAS safety systems, while drivers benefit from a head-up display – a rare luxury in the city bus segment. Depending on configuration (two or three doors) and operator requirements, it carries around 90 passengers.
Under the floor sit CATL LFP batteries with up to 422 kWh capacity, good for more than 400 km of range on the SORT2 cycle. VinFast promises at least 80% State of Health after eight years, supported by real-time battery monitoring. Fast charging via a standard CCS2 connector at up to 140 kW means a full top-up in just two to three hours. The manufacturer also includes a five-year vehicle warranty which will help to keep the total cost of ownership competitive.
Ms Le Thi Thu Thuy, Chairwoman of VinFast, said:
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| VinFast |
Each bus integrates a full suite of advanced safety and driver assistance systems to ensure a smooth, safe and reliable experience for passengers, operators and other road users alike.
EB 8
The EB 8 immediately turned heads for its distinctive design. Compact yet capable, it can accommodate up to 60 passengers and is powered by 360 kWh Gotion LFP batteries mounted both on the roof and within the floor structure. This dual placement optimises space but raises the entry height, meaning the EB 8 falls outside European homologation limits. Instead, it is aimed at international markets where regulations allow for more flexibility. VinFast quotes a range of at least 300 km, positioning the EB 8 as a nimble and efficient urban workhorse.
EB 12
By contrast, the EB 12 has been developed specifically for Europe, fully compliant with UNECE and CE standards and backed by European homologation. It is designed to fit neatly within the continent’s existing charging infrastructure, with VinFast planning to collaborate with local bus specialists for charging system supply and support.To keep maintenance straightforward, VinFast deliberately opted for familiar European components. A ZF AVE130 portal axle with twin 125 kW hub motors handles propulsion, Ventura doors ensure reliability and Ster seats provide the finishing touches inside. The EB 12 also features a full suite of ADAS safety systems, while drivers benefit from a head-up display – a rare luxury in the city bus segment. Depending on configuration (two or three doors) and operator requirements, it carries around 90 passengers.
Under the floor sit CATL LFP batteries with up to 422 kWh capacity, good for more than 400 km of range on the SORT2 cycle. VinFast promises at least 80% State of Health after eight years, supported by real-time battery monitoring. Fast charging via a standard CCS2 connector at up to 140 kW means a full top-up in just two to three hours. The manufacturer also includes a five-year vehicle warranty which will help to keep the total cost of ownership competitive.
Ms Le Thi Thu Thuy, Chairwoman of VinFast, said:
“Europe and VinFast share the same vision for a green and sustainable future. The launch of our VinFast electric bus models at Busworld is a strong sign of VinFast’s long-term commitment.”VinFast’s move into Europe’s competitive bus sector is a bold one but it is underpinned by the same confidence that propelled its passenger car business onto the global stage. With the EB 12 already homologated and the EB 8 ready for international rollout, the Vietnamese brand is signalling that it is here not just to make an impression but to stay.
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