JAPAN
In response to needs for zero-emission community buses, Hino plans to launch its Poncho Z EV light-duty electric bus in spring 2022 in its home market. The Hino Poncho light-duty low-floor diesel bus was launched in 2002 and has been adopted throughout Japan for community transport uses. With today’s growing concern for global environmental issues, Hino believes that the Poncho Z EV will be ideal given that community buses are used in close proximity to people’s homes and other urban areas.
Hino says that the new bus will keep the features of the diesel Poncho, including its universal design which it says makes it user-friendly for everyone. Its large fully-flat floor area and step-free entry enable easier boarding and movement inside the bus, especially for users of wheelchairs and pushchairs. Depending on configuration, Hino says the bus will accommodate up to 30 passengers.
Hino believes that the ‘simple and appealingly rounded’ exterior will harmonise with urban environments. At just 6,990mm long and 2,090mm wide, the Poncho Z EV is powered by a 105kWh lithium ion battery, driving a 161kW motor, and weighs around 8,000kg depending on specification.
