BYD, a specialist in new energy vehicles, is advancing the electrification of European public transport with the global debut of its flagship electric coach, the BYD C12 DUO, at Euro Bus Expo 2026 in Birmingham
The BYD C12 DUO is designed to provide a premium, emission-free journey; the 12m single-decker accommodates up to 57 passengers and features a 4m³ luggage compartment.
The launch of the C12 DUO represents a milestone in BYD’s strategy to expand the UK’s green public transport network beyond urban environments. Developed for tourism operators, school transportation and scheduled coach services, the vehicle shows that long-distance electric passenger transport can now be deployed without compromising range, passenger comfort or operational efficiency.
Frank Thorpe, managing director of BYD UK Commercial Vehicles, said, “The transition to zero-emission commercial transport is no longer a distant goal; it is an operational reality. With the debut of the C12 DUO, we are demonstrating that sustainable, long-range electric travel is feasible across every transport segment, from dense city centres to intercity corridors across Europe.”
Every electrified BYD commercial vehicle features the company’s LFP Blade Battery. Passing the stringent Nail Penetration Test without emitting fire or smoke, the battery pack architecture integrates into the vehicle’s chassis frame, increasing torsional stiffness while reducing vehicle weight by 8%. All BYD commercial batteries come with a standard 15-year warranty.
Euro Bus Expo highlights
BYD is also showcasing its urban eBus lineup, including the BYD BD11 Double-Decker, engineered for the demands of London’s transport network, with an 11m low-floor and space for up to 85 passengers. Its Blade Battery capacity of up to 532kWh provides a single-charge range of over 340 miles, and features OTA FleetLink technology for real-time remote fleet optimisation.
BYD’s Single-Decker lineup offers modular versatility across municipal routes, with models ranging in length from 8.9m to 11.8m and carrying up to 81 passengers. With battery capacities up to 541kWh, independent front axles, regenerative braking, and flexible DC plug-in or pantograph charging options, these vehicles deliver maximum efficiency for short city loops and regional corridors alike.
Nationwide electrification across the UK
As the UK market expands beyond major metropolitan areas, BYD is supporting nationwide operators and regional transport authorities with fleet electrification assessments, depot charging strategies, TCO analysis, and local aftersales expertise.
The Euro Bus Expo 2026 showcase also reflects BYD’s growing momentum in the UK, with over 3,000 electric buses now operating or scheduled for deployment. Supported by the company’s dedicated Battery Systems Workshop in Milton Keynes, new PDI and Technology Centre in Reading and an expanding local service network, BYD remains committed to helping operators accelerate the UK’s transition towards cleaner, quieter, and more sustainable public transport.
