At Busworld, Vietnamese manufacturer VinFast presented two new buses for the first time on European soil. The names couldn't be simpler: EB8 for an Electric Bus that is 8 m long and EB 12 for one that measures 12 m.
The EB8 draws attention to VinFast's innovative design. This bus can accommodate 60 passengers and is equipped with 360 kWh Gotion LFP batteries. These are partly located on the roof and partly in the floor. This makes the entry height too high for European homologation, but the vehicle is available worldwide for other markets. VinFast specifies a range of at least 300 km.
The EB12 was designed entirely in accordance with European regulations and the existing charging infrastructure. As a result, the EB12 complies with UNECE and CE standards and has full European homologation. For its introduction to the European market, we will be working with local bus specialists as suppliers of charging infrastructure.
To keep maintenance and repairs simple, European components were specifically chosen. For example, the drive axle is a ZF AVE130 portal axle with two 125 kW hub motors, the doors are from Ventura, and the seats are from Ster. The bus has all ADAS features on board and – quite extraordinary for city buses – the driver is treated to a head-up display. Depending on the configuration – 2 or 3 doors – and the specific requirements of the operator, the EB12 can carry around 90 passengers.
The EB12 is equipped with up to 422 kWh LFP batteries from manufacturer CATL. This provides a range of more than 400 km according to SORT2. VinFast guarantees at least 80% SOH after 8 years. The batteries are continuously monitored in real time. Charging is done via a standard CCS2 plug at a maximum of 140 kW and takes only 2 to 3 hours. VinFast offers a 5-year warranty on the entire vehicle, which has a very favorable impact on the TCO.
“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,” said Ms. Le Thi Thu Thuy, Chairwoman of Infant.