BYD has unveiled the C12 DUO, its new electric coach

The world premiere took place in Birmingham at Euro Bus Expo 2026 (3–5 November): the event chosen by BYD to launch its new electric coach, the C12 DUO, initially intended for the UK market. The 12-metre coach features BYD’s proprietary Blade Batteries and offers a manufacturer-claimed range of approximately 340 miles/547 kilometres.

In recent days, we reported that the Shenzhen-based giant was preparing to launch an electric coach.

“The transition to zero-emission commercial transport is no longer a distant goal, it is an operational reality,” said Frank Thorpe, Managing Director, BYD UK Commercial Vehicles. “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.”

A closer look at BYD’s C12 DUO

BYD says the vehicle can also be registered as a Class II bus for operation on interurban and regional routes. However, it is very much a coach, “designed to offer a premium travel experience”. The model unveiled is a 12-metre, two-axle version accommodating up to 57 passengers, with a luggage compartment offering 4 cubic metres of storage space.

As previously mentioned, energy is stored in LFP Blade Batteries, with a total capacity of either 429 or 495 kWh. The battery pack, covered by a 15-year warranty, is integrated directly into the vehicle chassis, increasing torsional stiffness and reducing vehicle weight by 8% compared with the previous generation.

Technical specifications

Beyond electric coaches: BYD brings its B-series urban electric bus range to Euro Bus Expo

Alongside the C12 DUO, BYD showcased its urban electric bus range, including the BD11 double-decker, designed specifically to meet the requirements of London’s transport network: an 11-metre vehicle with a low floor and capacity for up to 85 passengers. Its large Blade Battery capacity, reaching 532 kWh, enables a range of approximately 547 km.

BYD’s single-deck urban bus range includes models measuring between 8.9 and 11.8 metres, accommodating up to 81 passengers and featuring battery capacities of up to 541 kWh, alongside flexible DC charging options via plug-in connectors or pantographs.

BYD’s 3,000th electric bus for the UK

BYD’s presence at Euro Bus Expo 2026 also reflects its growing position in the British bus market. To mark the occasion, the Chinese manufacturer celebrated the production of its 3,000th electric bus for the UK. The milestone vehicle is a B11, completed at the Hangzhou plant, measuring 10.84 metres and featuring two doors, wheel-hub motors, LFP batteries and CCS plug-in charging.

“Reaching 3,000 electric buses for the UK is a significant moment for BYD, and it is built on more than a decade of work with British operators. For operators, what matters is that the bus arrives on time, runs every day and is supported locally. Our latest-generation zero-emission buses continue to surpass expectations, unlocking new opportunities for route expansion into regional and remote communities thanks to class-leading battery range and exceptional charging performance,” said Thorpe.