The Karsan e-JEST battery-electric microbus made its UK debut at Euro Bus Expo, with EVM to act as the Turkish manufacturer’s supply partner here and in Ireland.
Karsan promises a 12-seat, energy-efficient option for low-demand and demand responsive services with a claimed range of 210km. The e-JEST is 5.9m long, 2.1m wide and 2.8m high. In right-hand drive form it has 10 fixed and two tip-up seats, along with space for five standing passengers.
Karsan Chief Commercial Officer Deniz Cetin says that the e-JEST was “born as a small city bus” but adds that it will also suit rural use. Deployment overnight on fixed-route usage in lieu of larger vehicles is also cited as a possible use by the manufacturer.
The e-JEST is a fully integral vehicle and comes with a 10-year anti-corrosion warranty. It has hydraulic brakes and includes BMW technology in the driveline that utilises an 88kWh battery and a 135kW motor. Maximum speed is 50mph and the model can climb a 25% grade.
DC charging at 80kW is possible alongside a 22kW AC connection. Mr Cetin says that Karsan has sold 700 e-JESTs globally. Debut in the UK following a first in right-hand drive in Japan, with Karsan having confirmed in May that it would bring the vehicle here.
On the microbus’s small size, he adds that Karsan “is the creator of this segment” and notes that “there is nothing else like it.” The manufacturer has a long history with minibuses and has hinted that its 8m e-ATAK battery-electric small bus will follow the e-JEST into right-hand drive.
EVM Managing Director Danny McGee has welcomed the e-JEST as a further addition to the convertor and dealership’s growing line-up.
“Introduction of Karsan’s innovative electric buses aligns perfectly with EVM’s commitment to greener, more efficient travel solutions,” he says. “Together, we are set to power the future of urban mobility and transform public transport experiences.”
Mr Cetin emphasises that Karsan wants to expand its global presence further, with Australia and Malta its next right-hand drive target markets. It has already placed 1,200 electric vehicles in 23 countries.
