BYD received an order for 48 units of the 12-metre low-entry eBuses from Volánbusz Zrt in Hungary. It represents the largest single order to date that BYD has received in Hungary, All 48 eBuses will be built locally at BYD’s European manufacturing facility in Komárom, Hungary.
With over 6200 vehicles in its fleet, Volánbusz Zrt is the largest PTO in Hungary. Volánbusz launched its vehicle rejuvenation program in 2018, and has already replaced over 860 units with new vehicles. In line with this, is a strategy to replace 40% of its total bus fleet by the end of 2022, which includes further plans to invest in electric buses and charging infrastructure. The eBuses on order feature new generation BYD Iron-Phosphate Battery technology and BYD’s Battery Thermal Management System. The 343kWh battery capacity delivers a 300 km driving range on a single charge. BYD eBuses also offer an upgraded interior layout, including a redesign of the handrail arrangement and increased passenger capacity. Ambient lighting, USB charger ports and soundproof floor coverings enhance the overall passenger experience.
On the occasion of announcing the order, László Palkovics, Hungarian Minister of Innovation and Technology, said: “The Government continuously acts towards green public transport according to its ‘Climate and Environmental Protection Action Plan’. The Government launched the ‘Green Bus Program’ for the quality upgrade of local bus fleets in rural cities with a budget of 36 billion HUF. New tenders for purchasing another 350 electric buses will be announced soon.” BYD has a successful track record in the Hungarian eBus market, with over 70 electric buses in service or on order in 10 cities. BYD eBuses in Hungary have covered over 800,000 km, reducing CO2 emissions by 870 tonnes. The 48 units of 12-metre BYD low-entry eBuses are scheduled for delivery to Volánbusz later this year.
The formal signing ceremony was attended by László Palkovics, Minister of Innovation and Technology; László Vigh, Ministerial Commissioner, Member of Parliament; Zoltán Balaicz, Mayor of Zalaegerszeg, Dr. Zoltán Pafféri, President and CEO of Volánbusz, as well as a number of other VIP guests and Javier Contijoch, BYD Europe eBus Vice President of Sales.