BYD, the world’s leading manufacturer of new energy vehicles (NEV) and power batteries, has reached a significant milestone with the global debut of its latest innovation, the all-new electric double-decker bus, the BYD BD11. The unveiling took place at the London Bus Museum, a venue of special significance as it houses the first electric bus with a BYD K9E chassis dedicated to the London public transport network.
The introduction of the BYD BD11 signifies a crucial moment for BYD in the UK public transportation scene, as it prepares to enter service later this year. Specifically designed for London, the BYD BD11 will commence operations in the UK shortly, with plans for a provincial model to follow soon after.
The BYD BD11 becomes the latest vehicle to feature BYD’s renowned Blade Battery, which provides exceptional range, performance, and fast charging capabilities with a market-leading battery capacity of up to 532kWh. It offers flexible and rapid charging options, supporting dual-gun charging and pantograph fast charging up to 500kW, which means that the BYD BD11 can be recharged in the shortest possible time, from 0 to 100 per cent in just two hours. Introduced in 2020, the battery reflects BYD’s determination to provide the safest battery in the market while also redefining safety standards for the entire industry. It is cleverly integrated into the chassis to save weight, increase driving range, and afford high levels of stability and maneuverability, while also increasing interior space for passengers.
In addition, the BYD BD11 is equipped with an integrated thermal management system to optimise energy utilisation. Prioritizing driver and passenger comfort and safety, the BYD BD11 features active suspension control and offers a comprehensive suite of enhanced safety features, including the Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS).
BYD is the only NEV producer to have developed its own powertrain systems, power batteries, automotive semiconductors, motors and motor controller systems. There are over 1,800 BYD eBuses in operation on UK roads, with a total operating mileage of more than 80 million miles, which is equivalent to a reduction of 137 million tonnes of CO2 emissions.
Last year the company introduced new eBus innovations for the European market, with the launch of the B12, and it continues to develop industry-leading technologies for public transport networks around the world.
“BYD is committed to technological innovation and spearheading the global transition towards eco-conscious public transportation,” comments Frank Thorpe, Managing Director, BYD UK Commercial Vehicles. “The BYD BD11 will play a pivotal role in contributing to the reduction of air pollution in London and, soon after, the UK’s wider carbon neutrality goals. We are proud to launch our own all-new electric double decker bus with highly innovative, world-leading technology for safe and reliable electric mobility, providing operators with modern eco-friendly eBus options that meet their specifications, thus providing more people the choice to use clean, non-polluting bus services in the future.”
