Volgren and Yutong unveil new electric bus

Bus manufacturers Marcopolo Group which owns Australian manufacturer Volgren and China’s Yutong have joined forces to introduce the Volgren Optimus/Yutong E12 Battery Electric Bus (pictured) to the Australian market.

Built with Volgren’s Optimus aluminium bus body and powered by Yutong’s advanced electric chassis, the electric bus sets new standards in sustainability and performance, according to an announcement.

Manufactured locally in Victoria, the Volgren Optimus is lightweight, efficient, and designed to meet the growing demand for zero-emission buses.

Volgren’s Chief Commercial Officer Yuri Tessari said: “The Volgren Optimus Yutong E12 represents the future of bus transport.

“Our combined expertise with Yutong has allowed us to create a product that not only meets the highest standards of performance but also supports Australia’s transition towards cleaner energy in public transport.

“This vehicle is the lightest electric bus in our entire fleet, allowing us to accommodate up to 71 passengers, a real game-changer in the Battery Electric Bus segment.”

The first bus to be launched offers a range of up to 360km, with a battery capacity of 350kWh and an energy efficiency rate of 0.8 – 1.1kWh/km.

Volgren and Yutong – the world’s biggest bus manufacturer – are working on variants, offering extended range and battery capacity options – 399kWh and 422kW – compatible with both CCS2 and Pantograph/Opportunity Charge.

Volgren’s CEO Thiago Deiro said: “We are proud to be at the forefront of electric bus manufacturing in Australia.

“This collaboration with Yutong reinforces our commitment to delivering sustainable, reliable, and high-quality public transport solutions.”

Brazilian based Marcopolo Group and Yutong are working together in many overseas markets, with successful projects already delivered in Brazil, Mexico, China, and now Australia.

Picture: Volgren