Hyundai ‘Elec City Town’ e-buses deployed in Japanese island

The Hyundai Elec City Town e-buses are equipped with Vehicle Dynamics Control, Vehicle-to-Home (V2H) technology, and advanced battery management and cooling systems.

Hyundai Motor Company has recently debuted its ‘Elec City Town’ battery-electric buses in Japan for the first time. These buses will be deployed in the country’s Yakushima island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, starting June this year.

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The ‘Elec City Town’ is a 9-metre medium-sized, low-floor electric bus, with a seating capacity for 41 passengers. The model range is equipped with a 145 kWh NCM battery manufactured by SK On. Its high-efficiency motor delivers a power output of up to 160 kW, and supporting a driving range of up to 220 kms in single charge.

The manufacturer claims that the buses are optimized for the operational requirements of the Yakushima island. They are equipped with ‘Vehicle Dynamics Control’ to ensure safe and stable driving on the island’s mountainous roads, characterized by steep slopes and sharp curves. The buses also feature a 2-stage regenerative braking and ride height and kneeling functionality for better practicality.

Further, the buses also feature advanced battery management and cooling systems, optimized for Yakushima’s hot and humid climate, enhancing charging performance, efficiency and driving range. Moreover, the Vehicle-to-Home capabilities of these buses can supply power to evacuation shelters and medical facilities during natural disasters such as typhoons or periods of heavy rainfall.

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This is a significant feat for Hyundai Motor, as the company has successfully secured electric bus order competing Chinese EV makers in Japan. The brand’s e-buses are largely running in South Korea, and is awaiting international expansion in the coming years.