BYD, the world’s leading EV manufacturer, has signed a framework agreement with Castrosua, the bus and coach body assembly specialist in Spain, to produce eco-friendly customised 12-metre eBuses in Spain, specifically for the Spanish market.
The BYD-Castrosua 12-metre eBuses will be built on the BYD advanced chassis with electric powertrain, and incorporate the Castrosua NELEC body to provide high-calibre electric transport solutions for Spanish customers.
With more than 27 years’ experience in battery research and development, BYD is the only NEV producer to have developed its own powertrain systems, power batteries, automotive semiconductors, drive-motors and motor controller systems which integrate the entire ecosystem of the bus for operational efficiencies. Complimenting this technology, is Castrosua’s expertise in innovative bodywork design and assembly, in a partnership that will use the award-winning, highly customisable NELEC body. Like BYD, Castrosua has a long-established heritage in the industry, with all the resources and professional technology to prompt the widespread adoption of electric buses in Spain.
BYD and Castrosua strategic cooperation is committed to producing tailor-made products that meet the demands of the Spanish market through a framework agreement for the development, manufacture and sale of electric buses, initially focusing on Class I and Class II buses for urban and commuter use. The agreement will also jointly offer a high-quality and effective after-sales service, with professional and customer-oriented technical support from both sides, as well as spare parts supply. By virtue of extensive market experience and a shared vision for eMobility, the partnership is ideally placed to maximise the effectiveness of the collaboration and explore further opportunities to expand the product range in the future.
The first BYD-Castrosua 12-metre eBus is already under the development and will soon be available for operation under the CE regulations. The latest BYD chassis, with a longer driving range, optimised battery life and ultra-safe performance will adapt to Castrosua NELEC bodywork, and the finished BYD-Castrosua 12-metre eBuses will soon join the urban electric fleets further contributing to the transition to electrification of public transport in Spain.
Javier Contijoch, BYD Europe eBus Vice President of Sales, said: “It is a great honour for BYD to bring the world’s leading technology to Spain and start the partnership with Castrosua. We highly value our local partnerships and it is especially significant that the tailor-made eBuses will be manufactured locally in Spain, for Spanish customers. Together we are poised to expand zero-emission electric bus fleets throughout Spain to provide a cleaner environment for Spanish people. BYD firmly believes in the benefits of collaboration to accelerate the transition to electrification, and we welcome the opportunity to partner with other respected bus bodywork specialists in Europe.”
Beatriz Castro, CEO of Castrosua`s Group, said: “For Castrosua`s Group, it is very delighted to reach this agreement forming a strategic partnership with globally renowned BYD for the manufacture of urban and commuter electric buses. Castrosua and BYD now combine their strengths with the clear objective of offering customers highly personalised and innovative electric bus solutions. Together we continue to support eMobility, meeting customers’ specific needs, through a service that will benefit from the experience and professionalism of both our teams.”
