Spotlight on Yutong new 10-meter U10 model, featuring latest battery and motor innovations

At the recent FIAA exhibition in Madrid, Yutong presented a selection of its latest electric models, designed for applications ranging from urban transport to long-distance luxury travel.

According to Yutong, the company has delivered over 190,000 pure electric buses worldwide, collectively traveling over 44 billion kilometers.

Based on OEM’s figures, “in 2023, the cumulative sales volume of large and medium-sized buses was 36,518 units, with an overall market share of 36.13%, leading the industry for 21 consecutive years”. Yutong has exported nearly 100,000 units in total, selling in batches to more than 100 countries and regions around the world, and covering the America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Africa, etc., with a global market share of more than 10%. More than 700 units were sold in Europe in 2023 according to an interview we had with William Ding, Western Europe managing director, at Next Mobility Exhibition in Milan, held in May 2024.

Yutong U10 e-bus model is brand new

The main Yutong’s news at FIAA 2024 is the showcase of the 10.5-meter electric city bus U10. Featuring a sleek black curved design and low-floor layout, is can accommodate up to 81 passengers. Yutong’s integrated monitoring system provides real-time operational insights.

According to Yutong, the U10 achieves a driving range exceeding 500 km under certain conditions and incorporates advanced energy-saving technologies. Capacity? 350 kWh by standard, optionally 422.

Yutong new buses, focus on innovation in battery, motor and more

Yutong highlighted its latest advancements in electric bus technology during the event. According to the company, the Yutong Electric Architecture (YEA) – launched in mid-2023 – is designed to optimize performance through a proprietary C-architecture system, which integrates critical vehicle functions, comprising a “central computing unit, multi-in-one controller, intelligent cabin domain controller, and advanced driving assistance domain controller.” Yutong notes that this system doubles control efficiency and boosts computing power by 200%, allowing for real-time, adaptive responses during operation.

New Yutong buses also feature silicon carbide (SiC) power modules, a first in mass production. Yutong reports that these modules enhance energy efficiency to 99.5% while reducing system weight by 50% and lowering energy consumption by 5%.

The company has also incorporated robust battery safety measures, including dual-layer fireproofing and nitrogen protection, which Yutong claims can withstand immersion in 2 meters of water for 72 hours or temperatures up to 1,300°C for two hours.

Still on the battery topic, now Yutong buses adopt batteries (sourced from CATL) with latest generation cells enabling a a 38% increase in volume energy density through a integrated structural design, resulting in an over 40% improvement in vehicle space utilization, according to Yutong’s figures.

What is also interesting, Yutong uses a E-axle incorporating “a parallel-axis two-stage transmission system that integrates a high-speed flat-wire motor, high-speed transmission and axle. This replaces the conventional three-stage transmission system that consists of a motor, transmission, drive shaft and axle, in the central direct drive system”. The OEM states that “Compared to traditional central direct drive systems, our system achieves a weight reduction of over 49% and saves over 30% of chassis layout space. With a peak efficiency exceeding 93%, the system also boasts a remarkable 77% energy recovery efficiency during braking. These advancements contribute to a reduction in vehicle energy consumption of over 15%”.

For temperature management, Yutong has developed a multi-source ultra-low temperature heat pump, designed to operate at temperatures as low as -30°C. Yutong states that this system enhances winter range by 10% and reduces heating energy consumption by 10%, contributing to the bus’s overall energy efficiency.

Also in Madrid: 7-meter bus and coaches

Going ahead with the presentation of Yutong buses on display at FIAA, we find the compact Yutong E7S, suited for navigating narrow streets. With a maximum seating capacity of 10 and a total capacity for 30 passengers, it meets high safety standards, including IP-rated protection and an independent suspension system. Yutong states the E7S achieves a range of up to 455 km, with energy efficiency optimized for last-mile connectivity.

The vehicle features over 20m³ of light transmission area.

Yutong T12E electric coach is tailored for long-distance journeys and has recently gained traction in markets across Europe, including Denmark and Italy. According to Yutong, the T12E’s features include spacious luggage storage and the Buseye Pro safety system, which provides forward collision and lane departure warnings. The coach offers an estimated range of over 500 km.

The luggage compartment can accommodate 44 26-inch suitcases, according to the producer.

Last but not least, the ICE12 is a normal floor battery-electric bus targeting suburban routes. It offers ultra-low energy consumption (under 0.9 kWh/km) and includes features like IP68-rated protection and advanced driver-assistance systems.