GVT Sdn. Bhd., a subsidiary of the GoAuto Group recently signed an agreement with Yutong Bus Co., Ltd. to enter into a strategic partnership for local distribution and completely knocked down (CKD) assembly as well as to handover official orders for energy efficient (EEV) and electric (EV) buses in Malaysia.
Following the agreement signed in February 2023, GVT is now adding EV and EEV bus models from Yutong, bringing the total to 14 models. In addition, GVT has received an official order for 40 units of EEV buses.
“Yutong is among the world’s largest electric bus manufacturers, experiencing significant growth. They boast a remarkable daily production exceeding 400 units and have achieved a cumulative global sales figure of 175,000 units of new energy buses. In 2023 alone, Yutong sold an impressive 36,518 units of new energy buses. Backed by their mastery of smart technology embedded in each vehicle, we are confident that Yutong buses deliver a comfortable and safe driving experience,” said Wan Ahmad.
The CKD operation for Yutong’s EV and EEV buses will take place at Malaysia’s first electrical assembly factory, NexV Manufacturing Sdn. Bhd., situated in Chembong, Negeri Sembilan.
NexV Manufacturing, a joint venture between Careplus Group and GoAuto Group Sdn Bhd, is dedicated to developing a ‘Green Technology Facility’ including technology Robot Welding System and Painted Body ED Coating for the production and assembly of new energy vehicles, expected to commence operations in Q1 2025.
This CKD installation is anticipated to provide a time-saving advantage of three months compared to the typical local required duration which is between four to six months.
The order and agreement encompassing 14 EV and EEV bus models from the Yutong Series showcase a variety of buses designed with simplicity yet featuring a futuristic touch, aligning seamlessly with the modern urban theme. Yutong series buses prioritise accessibility, offering special spaces for wheelchairs.
The entryway is exceptionally low, spanning just 230-300 cm, facilitating easy boarding and disembarking for passengers. This bus range is also equipped with USB ports for both drivers and passengers, along with a BOSCH steering system. Notably, these buses boast an acceleration time from 0 to 30 km in less than 10 seconds and a gradability of 15%.
The Yutong bus series places a paramount emphasis on safety features. The vehicle body’s reinforced closed ring structure is designed to distribute optimal pressure to all parts of the bus during an impact, ensuring enhanced safety.
The Yutong Series bus integrates the battery, drive motor, and controller that are compliant to IP68 and IP6K9K, the highest safety standards for automotive spare parts. Furthermore, optional features include a 360-degree panoramic camera system, collision warning system, electronic braking system (EBS), and anti-lock braking system (ABS) + anti-slip regulation (ASR).
Its four electronic technologies include stepless speed change; with this feature, the bus drivers do not need to step on the accelerator pedal, providing the passenger with a comfortable ride. Following that, the regenerative braking energy recovery system converts surplus energy into stored electrical energy when the driver applies the brakes.
