BYD will supply South Africa with its first fleet of electric buses, through a deal with Golden Arrow. The Cape Town based bus operator has been undergoing rigorous testing with BYD’s electric buses since 2021, according to a media statement.
The testing involved demanding conditions, such as simulating peak passenger capacities and conquering Cape Town’s steepest inclines, it said.
BYD says the successful trials confirmed the vehicles’ performance, extended charge range, and safety standards, paving the way for the order of 120 new 65-seat electric buses, designed to seamlessly integrate with Golden Arrow’s current fleet.
The 12.5m long electric buses are equipped with lithium iron phosphate batteries and incorporates BYD’s unique six-in-one controller, which integrates six critical components into one single compact module for enhanced efficiency and reliability.
The electric buses will not only contribute to a greener environment but also provide passengers with a quieter and more comfortable travel experience, it adds.
Steve Chang, General Manager of BYD South Africa says:”We are thrilled to partner with Golden Arrow in this groundbreaking initiative. This order is a testament to our shared vision of a sustainable future and highlights the increasing adoption of clean energy solutions in South Africa.”
Francois Meyer, CEO of Golden Arrow says: “As a company with such a rich history, we are proud to be the first to bring electric buses to South Africa’s public transport space. This partnership with BYD underscores our commitment to innovation and sustainability.”
BYD says the delivery of the electric buses will take place in December 2024, with plans for full delivery by the end of next year.
Its commercial vehicles have a footprint in over 6 continents, and includes cities like Amsterdam, London, Tokyo, and Sao Paulo, and successfully delivered more than 80 000 electric buses to customers around the world.