BYD, the world’s leading electric bus manufacturer, in partnership with Castrosua, the renowned bus bodybuilding specialists, launched the first jointly produced electric bus at an Official Presentation Ceremony on 29th May in Spain. Its debut marks the start of an exciting new era of zero-emission customised eBuses in the 12-metre category for Spanish bus operators, combining BYD’s expertise in electric bus chassis technology with Castrosua’s highly-acclaimed bus bodies.
BYD and Castrosua announced their joint manufacturing partnership in September 2022, creating a dynamic collaboration to provide Spanish customers with high-calibre and highly personalised 12-metre electric buses.
Advanced BYD chassis technology is at the heart of the BYD-Castrosua eBus, evolving from BYD’s vast experience in electric bus innovation. BYD has sold over 90,000 electric buses worldwide. The revolutionary BYD chassis has been developed for safety, efficiency and reliability. A key benefit is the 6-in-1 controller integrating the entire ecosystem of the bus for improved reliability and increased operational proficiency, as well as energy efficiency.
The BYD Battery Thermal Management System ensures the battery stays at the optimum operating temperature, adapting to various climate conditions. There is also the reassurance of battery stability and safety as the BYD-Castrosua eBuses use Iron-Phosphate Battery Technology developed by BYD which has excelled in the most rigorous safety tests.
Complementing BYD core technology is the highly configurable NELEC body from Castrosua, using 3D modelling during the concept phase, facilitates the development of all customisation and adaptation options, as well as streamlining production, repair and maintenance processes, while providing the customer with advanced and comprehensive presentations to assist in their decision-making process.
Nelec is an environmentally friendly vehicle, built with new materials and indirect LED lighting that is used throughout the vehicle to create a bright and spacious passenger cabin that generates comfort for users. With great attention to detail in the design of the spacious and ergonomic driver’s cabin, as well as the inclusion of other innovative elements such as a new windscreen wiper system with independent motors on each arm, an independent air channelling system or indirect vision systems (digital cameras instead of mirrors).
In terms of safety, the Nelec body complies with the non-mandatory rollover strength regulation 66 for Class I vehicles, along with other features that exceed current legal requirements.
In addition, this high-performance vehicle is the lightest on the market in its class.
The BYD-Castrosua 12-metre eBus can accommodate up to 92 passengers, making it a practical size for city bus services. With 422 kWh battery capacity, it also offers an impressive range of more than 450 km on a single charge.
