- Product Unveiling: Chinese manufacturer Zhongtong Bus presented two new electric bus models tailored specifically for the UK market during its debut at the Euro Bus Expo in Birmingham.
- Featured Models: The lineup features the H12Plus high-end electric long-haul coach, with an average range of 400 km, and the N12D electric double-decker, offering a range of up to 600 km.
- H12Plus Capacity: Configured to seat 53 passengers alongside two dedicated wheelchair bays, featuring fast-charging capabilities.
- N12D Double-Decker: Accommodates up to 80 passengers, featuring a fully low-floor architecture, three doors, boarding ramps, and smart fleet controls.
- European Expansion: The showcase marks Zhongtong’s official debut at the UK exposition as part of its broader European market expansion strategy.
Chinese bus manufacturer Zhongtong Bus debuted two new electric bus models tailored for the British market during its first appearance at the Euro Bus Expo, held at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC) in Birmingham, U.K. The exhibition of the H12Plus and N12D models—both manufactured in Right-Hand Drive (RHD) configurations—forms part of the company’s international expansion strategy as it targets the European electric mass transit, intercity coach, and tourism sectors.
The primary showcase was the Zhongtong H12Plus, a high-end electric intercity coach measuring just over 12 meters in length with seating capacity for up to 53 passengers. The model includes two designated wheelchair spaces, alongside passenger amenities such as onboard Wi-Fi charging ports, electrical outlets, and an integrated restroom.
According to manufacturer specifications, the H12Plus delivers an average operational range of approximately 400 kilometers (248 miles) on a single charge. Its fast-charging system adds roughly 130 kilometers of range in 30 minutes, catering to long-distance charter and intercity routes requiring mid-trip charging stops.
H12Plus Engineered for British Market Standards
Designed to meet UK regulatory and operational standards, the H12Plus features a Right-Hand Drive (RHD) setup required for operation in Great Britain. The manufacturer aims to position the vehicle as a zero-emission alternative for intercity passenger transport, combining high passenger capacity, accessibility, and long-range features.
Beyond its dual wheelchair bays, the coach incorporates passenger comfort features designed for long-distance travel. USB charging ports and power outlets cater to mobile devices, while the onboard lavatory accommodates extended intercity routes.
Zhongtong highlights the 400-kilometer base range and the ability to replenish 130 kilometers within a 30-minute charge cycle as key competitive advantages for fleet operators managing scheduled long-distance routes.
N12D Brings Electric Powertrains to the Double-Decker Segment
The second vehicle showcased in Birmingham was the Zhongtong N12D, a fully electric double-decker bus engineered for high-capacity public transit. The vehicle accommodates up to 80 passengers, reaches a top speed of 80 km/h, and offers a claimed range of up to 600 kilometers (372 miles) on a single charge.
A key feature of the N12D is its accessibility design. The double-decker utilizes a fully low-floor chassis with three passenger doors, internal staircases, and entry ramps to optimize passenger boarding and alighting flow.
The model is also equipped with an integrated smart control management system. By combining a two-deck layout, an 80-passenger capacity, and a zero-emission electric powertrain, Zhongtong is positioning the N12D as a high-density solution for urban transit authorities.
While the 600-kilometer maximum range was highlighted as a core specification during the vehicle’s unveiling, official disclosures did not specify the exact drive-cycle parameters used to establish the estimate.
Electrification Gains Traction in Long-Distance and Tourism Sectors
Zhongtong’s presence at the Euro Bus Expo underscores the potential for electric powertrain adoption beyond urban transit into long-distance and commercial tourism operations.
Cadu Souza, CEO of TEVX Zhongtong, attended the vehicle launch and noted that the commercial tourism sector represents a key growth area for electrification. He observed that while urban transit electrification is mature, commercial tour operators are only now beginning to adopt zero-emission fleets.
“Electrification is already well established in urban transit, but there remains substantial room for growth in commercial tourism,” Souza noted. “The new vehicles unveiled here exceed 400 kilometers in range and can reach up to 600 km. This dramatically expands operational viability—especially with double-decker models, which remain rare in markets like Brazil but hold massive relevance globally.”
Souza’s commentary underscores the operational differences between urban and intercity routes. While urban buses operate on fixed routes with centralized depot charging infrastructure, intercity and charter tour operators require extended range and accessible fast-charging networks along long-distance corridors.
Debut Forms Part of European Expansion Strategy
The Euro Bus Expo marked Zhongtong’s first official appearance at the UK industry event. The manufacturer formally introduced its RHD intercity and double-decker portfolio, tailored specifically to meet British regulatory and operational requirements.
Zhongtong views the Birmingham showcase as a milestone in its global growth strategy, signaling plans to deliver customized, zero-emission transit solutions to European fleet operators.
The two-vehicle launch broadens the brand’s international market exposure across two distinct commercial segments: premium intercity coach transport (H12Plus) and high-density urban transit (N12D).
Partnership Between TEVX Motors and Zhongtong
TEVX Zhongtong operates as a strategic joint venture between Brazil-based TEVX Motors and Chinese manufacturer Zhongtong Bus Holding Co.
TEVX Motors focuses on sustainable urban mobility solutions and smart city infrastructure. In Brazil, its business operations span charging infrastructure and energy management via its Elethricidade division, alongside electric bus importing and distribution. TEVX reports having delivered over 60 electric buses currently operating across the Brazilian market.
Founded in 1958, Zhongtong Bus employs over 5,000 personnel across a 980,000-square-meter manufacturing footprint. The company reports total assets of $1 billion and an annual production capacity of 30,000 units.
Zhongtong is a subsidiary of Shandong Heavy Industry Group (SHIG), a Chinese industrial conglomerate encompassing 28 global brands. SHIG’s industrial portfolio includes engine manufacturer Weichai Power, heavy-truck manufacturer Sinotruk, construction equipment maker Shantui, logistics automation provider Kion Group, and Italian luxury yacht builder Ferretti Group.
With its product launches at the Euro Bus Expo, Zhongtong expands the international footprint of its electric vehicle portfolio into the European market, while its partnership with TEVX anchors its growth across South American zero-emission transit markets.
