Liverpool City Region Combined Authority has completed a multimillion-pound electrification project at Stagecoach's Gillmoss depot in North Liverpool, paving the way for over 100 new publicly owned battery-electric buses to enter service this week.
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.
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.
In a landmark moment for sustainable transport in Liverpool, Mayor Steve Rotheram today revealed the new livery for the Liverpool City Region's publicly owned bus fleet. The announcement was accompanied by news of a major investment in electric buses, marking another significant milestone in the region's journey towards achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2035.
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.
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...
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.