What is the story about?
What's Happening?
Higer, a Chinese bus manufacturer, has introduced its electric V Series coaches at Busworld 2025 in Brussels, Belgium. The launch, which took place on October 4, showcased three models developed over a three-year program: the V12E Pro luxury coach, the V12E tourist coach, and the V13E intercity coach. These models were designed using the Integrated Product Development process and tailored to European market needs. The V12E Pro, a 12.4-meter luxury coach, boasts a range of 500 kilometers per charge, supported by a 399.91 kWh battery pack with a 15-year warranty. The coach features advanced amenities such as premium seating, ambient lighting, and wheelchair accessibility. Higer's modular platform allows scalability from 8 to 14 meters and compatibility with electric, diesel, and hydrogen powertrains. The company has also inaugurated its first European parts center and service station in Luxembourg, aiming to enhance service responsiveness and reduce delivery times.
Why It's Important?
The introduction of Higer's electric V Series coaches marks a significant advancement in sustainable transportation within Europe. As countries strive to reduce carbon emissions, the availability of electric coaches with extended range and advanced features supports the transition to greener public transport solutions. Higer's investment in European infrastructure, including the new parts center in Luxembourg, demonstrates a commitment to expanding its market presence and improving service efficiency. This move could influence other manufacturers to accelerate their electric vehicle offerings, potentially reshaping the competitive landscape in the European bus industry. The deployment of these coaches aligns with broader environmental goals and could contribute to reducing the carbon footprint of intercity travel.
What's Next?
Following the exhibition, the V13E intercity model is set to be delivered to customers in France, indicating Higer's immediate expansion into the European market. The company plans to establish additional parts centers and a European training facility, further solidifying its operational base in the region. As Higer continues to grow its presence, it may face challenges from local and international competitors also vying for market share in the electric bus sector. The success of these initiatives could lead to increased adoption of electric buses across Europe, influencing public policy and transportation infrastructure development.
Beyond the Headlines
Higer's strategic focus on electric vehicles reflects a broader industry trend towards sustainability and innovation. The company's modular platform design, which reduces component types by 58 percent, highlights advancements in manufacturing efficiency and cost-effectiveness. This approach not only benefits Higer's production capabilities but also sets a precedent for other manufacturers to follow. The integration of domain control technology for intelligent maintenance and remote diagnosis further underscores the shift towards smarter, more connected transportation solutions. As Higer continues to expand its global footprint, its efforts may contribute to long-term shifts in public transport systems, emphasizing the importance of sustainable and technologically advanced solutions.
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