In a significant step towards greener public transport, Volgren, a subsidiary of the Marcopolo Group, and Yutong, one of the world’s largest bus manufacturers, have collaborated to introduce the Volgren Optimus/Yutong E12 Battery Electric Bus to the Australian market. 

The Volgren Optimus, featuring a lightweight aluminium body, is manufactured locally in Victoria, Australia, Volgren said in a LinkedIn post.  

Paired with Yutong’s advanced electric chassis, the bus is designed to meet the demand for environmentally friendly public transport solutions. 

“The Volgren Optimus Yutong E12 represents the future of bus transport,” said Yuri Tessari, Volgren’s chief commercial officer. 

He explained, “Our combined expertise with Yutong has allowed us to create a product that not only meets the highest standards of performance but also supports Australia’s transition towards cleaner energy in public transport. This vehicle is the lightest electric bus in our entire fleet, allowing us to accommodate up to 71 passengers, a real game-changer in the Battery Electric Bus segment.”

With a battery capacity of 350kWh, the Volgren Optimus/Yutong E12 offers a range of up to 360km, while maintaining high energy efficiency between 0.8 and 1.1kWh/km.

Future variants with larger battery capacities (399kWh and 422kWh) will soon be available. 

Thiago Deiro, CEO of Volgren, expressed pride in the company’s leading role in Australia’s electric bus industry. 

“We are proud to be at the forefront of electric bus manufacturing in Australia,” Deiro said. 

This collaboration with Yutong reinforces our commitment to delivering sustainable, reliable, and high-quality public transport solutions. Yutong has proven to be a great partner, and we look forward to expanding our collaboration in Australia.”

The partnership between Volgren and Yutong is not limited to Australia, with both companies having worked together on projects in Brazil, Mexico, and China. 

Yutong’s Chassis Director Overseas, Daniel Huo, emphasised the strength of this collaboration.

“By joining forces, the two companies are set to provide a better solution for the customer. It will be surely injecting the new momentum into the development of public transportation in Australia,” Huo said.

Looking ahead, Yutong’s Product Director for Asia Pacific, William, highlighted the long-term goals of the partnership. 

“Yutong will partner with Volgren to continuously upgrade our electric bus based on market feedback, ensuring end customers operate worry-free. Yutong and Volgren will drive the sustainable development of green transportation through technological innovations,” he said.