The Yutong U11DD battery-electric double-decker (pictured) was front and centre for the manufacturer at Busworld, where it was accompanied by other models including the 15m T15E battery-electric tri-axle coach, from which the slightly shorter 14m GTe14 for the UK has been developed.
Highlighted were the benefits of the Yutong Electric Architecture platform, which the builder says brings improved efficiency and safety. Meanwhile, dealership Pelican Bus and Coach reports strong interest in the U11DD from UK operators. That is the reason for it now having two single-door demonstrators (one silver, one red), says Managing Director Richard Crump.
“We were later to the double-deck segment, but two demonstrators will allow us to accelerate our work with potential customers,” he continues. Initial response from operators has been good, and addition of a 422kW/h battery option to the U11DD in conjunction with air-conditioning is seen as a positive.
The first demonstrator – originally in red but since repainted into silver, and which was completed in China during late-May – has recently entered trial service with First South Yorkshire in Sheffield. Two ordered by Newport Transport as the first confirmed purchases of the type are also in hand.
For the GTe14, a demonstrator is almost complete in China. When finished, the 14 ordered by Ember will enter production. The demonstrator is due in the UK before the end of the year and those for Ember in March 2024.
Other operators have shown an interest in the GTe14, including those that already have the smaller TCe12 battery-electric coach and potential fleet customers, Mr Crump continues. The TCe12 also continues to gain traction.
On the diesel front, interest from UK buyers in Yutong coaches is at record levels for Pelican. Most of a large batch of GT12 models due in early 2024 are already sold and Mr Crump sees no sign of such volumes slowing.
