The manufacturer of new energy vehicles (NEVs) and electric batteries, BYD, has reached an agreement with the Castrosua Group, which specialises in developing and manufacturing bus and coach bodies, to produce zero-emission electric buses for use in Spain. Measuring 12 metres-long, the vehicles will be customised and produced specifically for the Spanish market.

The Chinese company, with 27 years’ experience in battery research and development, has created electric powertrain systems, power batteries, automotive semiconductors, EV propulsion  and motor control systems, which will be assembled within Castrosua's easily customisable Nelec bodies. All units will be ready to operate under CE regulations.

Great autonomy
The first twelve-metre BYD-Castrosua eBus is already in development. It will be equipped with BYD's latest chassis, which achieves a long range thanks to optimised battery life and performance that the company describes as ultra-safe. The aim is for this model to form part of the urban electric fleets being mobilised within the current context of public transport electrification in Spain.

As the first phase, the agreement provides for the production of customised class I and II buses for urban and suburban use. In addition to development, manufacturing and sales, the consortium will offer a high-quality and efficient after-sales service, including technical support and spare parts supply.

Local production
BYD Europe eBus Vice President of Sales, Javier Contijoch, said, “We highly value our local partnerships, and it is especially significant that the customised eBus is being manufactured locally in Spain, for Spanish customers. Together, we are ready to expand the mobilisation of zero-emission electric bus fleets across Spain, providing a cleaner environment for Spaniards. BYD strongly believes in the benefits of this partnership for accelerating the transition to electrification.”

The CEO of Castrosua Group, Beatriz Castro, explained that both companies “are combining their strengths with the clear objective of offering the market a different proposal, including highly customised, innovative solutions. Together, we are continuing our commitment to global, flexible electromobility, with which we are also responding to real, specific needs. That is why the professionalism with which both teams are working will ensure that we develop a product range which follows these principles right from the outset.”

^{Photo: BYD}