New Electric Double-Decker Buses in Paris
A completely new, fully electric double-decker sightseeing bus has been developed by the Chinese automaker Anhui Ankai Automobile Co. and is now transporting tourists in Paris.
The electric vehicle (EV) industry provides accessible, high-quality transportation solutions that significantly contribute to global green growth. The fully electric double-decker buses manufactured in China are now cruising along the Seine River, passing through the Arc de Triomphe and approaching the Eiffel Tower. Over the eight language audio system, an announcement can be heard stating, “Dear travelers, welcome to Paris!”
Eco-Friendly Transportation for Tourists
Sports enthusiasts, coaches, members of visiting delegations, officials, and others are utilizing these fully electric vehicles to visit major tourist attractions in Paris, the hosting city for the 2024 Summer Olympic Games, which is renowned for its commitment to sustainability.
Offering a pollution-free ride for only 40 euros (about 43 dollars), many tourists are eagerly waiting to board these sightseeing buses.
Innovative Developments in Electric Buses
Developed by Anhui Ankai Automobile Co. Ltd, this is the world’s first fully electric double-decker bus designed for sightseeing with an open-top feature. It joins other new Chinese electric vehicles aimed at making Olympic venues more eco-friendly.
Between the Olympic Village and the training centers, BYD’s K9 electric buses are making their debut as the leading Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer supplies buses for the Olympics for the first time.
Advanced Technology and Features
These specially customized electric buses boast a range of over 400 kilometers and utilize advanced technology for purely electric propulsion. In addition to the electric buses, BYD has prepared hundreds of autonomous vehicles for transportation within the Olympic Village. These self-driving vehicles are equipped with cutting-edge sensors and artificial intelligence systems, featuring capabilities such as autonomous driving, obstacle avoidance, and parking.
Global Green Transformation and Market Entry
Amid a global green transformation, Chinese new energy buses are making their mark on the international market. Wang Lian, General Manager of Asia Pacific for Ankai, stated, “Ankai independently developed such an electric bus and tailored it for overseas markets over a decade ago.”
“In other words, we specifically targeted the overseas market. After years of research and development, this clean electric bus meets over 100 stringent European Union standards,” she added.
Successful Introduction to European Markets
According to Wang, the company brought the bus prototype to the automotive exhibition in Belgium after a month-long journey in 2017. To her surprise, the bus was snatched up by eager European consumers almost immediately after its debut and hit the streets in no time.
“This clearly demonstrated the cost performance and competitiveness of Chinese new energy buses in the global market,” Wang remarked.
Addressing Global Concerns
In light of accusations from some Western countries regarding China’s so-called overcapacity, including skepticism about the country’s exports of new energy vehicles due to a saturated domestic market, Ankai’s success illustrates that for many Chinese companies, expanding internationally is a proactive strategy.
Partnerships and Fleet Expansion
Gerry Price, Executive Vice President for Group Fleet Planning at Big Bus Tours, expressed satisfaction with the substantial delivery of such buses to Paris, based on a 17-year partnership agreement with Ankai.
“We have nearly 200 vehicles from Ankai that constitute a significant portion of our operational fleet globally. These EVs are another addition to what we currently have, enhancing our service offerings.”
Strengthening Long-Term Partnerships
“Our long-standing friendship is the foundation of our collaboration,” stated Price. “We rely on numerous high-quality suppliers, and Ankai stands out as one of our most reliable partners.”
Ankai’s Global Presence
Ankai buses have become a familiar sight in more than 100 countries and regions, with over 10,000 units operating in Saudi Arabia alone.
China’s Ambitious Goals for Electric Buses
China has set ambitious targets for expanding the use of electric buses and public transport. The plan aims to raise the share of electric vehicles (EVs) in public transportation systems to 80% in key areas, including bus and taxi services, by 2025.
Accelerating Electrification Initiatives
According to a pilot plan from the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, along with seven other ministries, China will accelerate the full electrification of vehicles used in public transport from 2023 to 2025. This includes the development of a charging and replacement infrastructure system that is “moderately advanced, well-balanced, intelligent, and efficient.”
Shifts in Chinese Exports
Chinese exports are undergoing a significant transformation, with the traditional trio of household appliances, furniture, and clothing now being overshadowed by high-tech products, dubbed the “new three”: electric vehicles, lithium-ion batteries, and solar cells. This was highlighted by economist Yu Xiyangrong in a research note from Citigroup.
Progress in Industrial Upgrading
“The changing dynamics of exports indicate progress in China’s industrial upgrading. The country has clearly enhanced its value chain and remains competitive amid the restructuring of the global supply chain,” stated Yu, who led the research team.
Growing Demand for Electric Buses
As China accelerates its efforts to promote a green transformation amid the growing New Energy Vehicle (NEV) sector, the number of Chinese electric buses is rising in the global market.
