BYD unveils UK electric double-decker bus

BYD has unveiled its BD11 electric double-decker bus, which is due to go into service in the UK later this year.

The BD11 includes BYD’s Blade Battery, which has a battery capacity of up to 532kWh.

It also offers flexible and rapid charging options, supporting dual-gun charging and pantograph fast charging up to 500kW, which means the vehicle can be recharged from 0 to 100 per cent in two hours.

The battery is integrated into the chassis to save weight, increase driving range, and improve stability and manoeuvrability, while also increasing interior space for passengers.

Also, the BD11 is equipped with an integrated thermal management system to optimise energy utilisation and BYD has developed its own powertrain systems, power batteries, automotive semiconductors, motors and motor controller systems.

The Chinese manufacturer has designed the bus specifically for London but plans to introduce a provincial version as well.

There are more than 1,800 BYD eBuses in operation on UK roads, with a total operating mileage of more than 80 million miles.