Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer BONTU has officially entered the European market, unveiling its range of compact electric quadricycles and commercial vehicles during a launch event in Milan, Italy. The company, founded in 2020 in China’s Shandong province, specializes in battery-electric micro vehicles and urban logistics solutions.
With the slogan “New Energy Vehicle, Urban Mobility Solutions,” BONTU is targeting both private users seeking affordable city transportation and businesses looking for efficient last-mile delivery vehicles.
The European lineup includes two electric minicars—the BTE05 and BT09—as well as the BTE03 mini commercial vehicle. All models have received European homologation under the EU’s L6e and L7e quadricycle categories.
Understanding L6e and L7e Quadricycles
BONTU’s vehicles are certified according to EU Regulation 168/2013, allowing registration and road use across European Union member states.
L6e vehicles are classified as light quadricycles and are generally limited to 45 km/h. Depending on local regulations, they can often be driven by younger drivers with a moped-style license. L7e vehicles are heavier and more powerful quadricycles capable of higher speeds, typically requiring a standard driving license in many markets.
Licensing requirements vary by country. In nations such as France and Italy, drivers can access L6e and L7e vehicles at younger ages than in Germany, where stricter licensing rules apply.
BONTU BTE05: Compact Electric City Car for Up to Four Passengers
The BTE05 is positioned as BONTU’s flagship urban passenger vehicle. Measuring 3.0 meters in length, it offers interior space comparable to an A-segment car while accommodating up to four occupants.
Two battery options are available:
– 13.9 kWh battery with up to 170 km of range
– 18.1 kWh battery with up to 222 km of range
The standard version delivers 13 kW of rated power and up to 20 kW peak output, while the larger battery variant provides 20 kW rated power and up to 30 kW peak power. Maximum speed reaches 90 km/h, making it suitable for both urban and suburban driving.
Safety and comfort features include:
– 60% high-strength steel passenger cell
– ABS and electronic brake distribution
– Driver airbag
– Hill-start assist
– Air conditioning
– Rear camera and parking sensors
– Regenerative braking system
– Electric power steering
– 12-inch touchscreen infotainment display
Drivers can also select between Eco and Sport driving modes to balance efficiency and performance.
BONTU BT09: A Smaller Quadricycle for Young Drivers
The BT09 is designed as a more compact and youthful alternative within BONTU’s lineup. At just 2.75 meters long, it offers a practical solution for dense urban environments while maintaining room for passengers and luggage.
The model is available in both L6e and L7e configurations:
BT09 L6e
– Two seats
– 7.68 kWh battery
– Up to 130 km range
– Maximum speed of 45 km/h
BT09 L7e
– Four seats
– 10 kWh battery
– Up to 150 km range
– Maximum speed of 75 km/h
One of the BT09’s distinguishing features is its permanent-magnet flat-wire synchronous motor, a technology more commonly found in larger passenger vehicles. According to BONTU, the system improves efficiency by up to 15% while providing smoother acceleration and better driving responsiveness.
Standard equipment includes ABS, EBD, electric power steering, hill-assist functionality, parking camera systems, and a 10-inch multimedia touchscreen.
BONTU BTE03: Electric Mini Truck for Urban Deliveries
Alongside its passenger vehicles, BONTU is introducing the BTE03 electric commercial vehicle to Europe. Available as a cargo van, pickup, or truck, the compact EV is designed specifically for last-mile delivery operations and urban logistics.
The BTE03 measures 3.56 meters long, 1.22 meters wide, and 1.98 meters high, with a payload capacity of 340 kg.
Power comes from a 7.5 kW electric motor producing 60 Nm of torque. The vehicle reaches a top speed of 81 km/h, placing it in the L7e category.
Key specifications include:
– 8.35 kWh battery pack
– 80–100 km driving range
– 90-minute charging to 80%
– Full recharge in approximately 3 hours
The cargo version features rear double doors and an optional side-loading door to improve loading flexibility.
BONTU says the vehicle underwent more than one million kilometers of testing in extreme hot and cold conditions before entering production.
Additional equipment includes air conditioning, cruise control, regenerative braking, radar sensors, ABS, and electric power steering.
Designed for the Growing Urban Logistics Market
BONTU believes electric mini-commercial vehicles can play a major role in transforming urban logistics. Their compact dimensions make them ideal for congested city centers, while zero tailpipe emissions and low noise levels help businesses meet increasingly strict environmental regulations.
The company also highlights lower operating costs compared with traditional diesel-powered delivery vehicles. Reduced energy consumption and simplified maintenance can significantly lower fleet operating expenses, making electric commercial vehicles increasingly attractive for logistics operators.
Warranty and European Expansion
All BONTU models sold in Europe are backed by a three-year or 50,000-kilometer warranty.
With a product range spanning youth-oriented quadricycles, practical city cars, and commercial delivery vehicles, BONTU is positioning itself to capitalize on Europe’s growing demand for compact electric mobility solutions. As cities continue to prioritize cleaner transportation and low-emission zones, the company’s affordable electric vehicles could find a growing audience among both private customers and commercial operators.
