Electromobili

VinFast Accelerates Global Push with EB8 and EB12 Electric Buses Set for 2026 Deployment

   Brussels / Hanoi, January 19, 2026 — Vietnamese electric vehicle pioneer VinFast is gearing up for a major milestone in sustainable public transportation as its first dedicated electric bus models, the EB8 and EB12, prepare for commercial operations and deliveries across Europe and beyond in 2026.

   Unveiled at Busworld Europe 2025 in Brussels last October, the EB8 and EB12 mark VinFast's official entry into the European public transit market—its first international expansion for buses beyond its home market in Vietnam. The company, already established in Europe with electric SUVs like the VF 6 and VF 8, positions these new models as key components of a comprehensive green mobility ecosystem aimed at democratizing electric transport.

The flagship EB12 is a full-size 12-meter low-floor city bus designed for high-capacity urban routes. Measuring 12,110 mm in length, 2,550 mm in width, and 3,330 mm in height, with a 5,900 mm wheelbase and a gross vehicle weight of 19,200 kg, it features a three-door configuration for efficient passenger flow. Powered by twin 125 kW wheel-hub motors delivering a combined 250 kW output and a top speed of 80 km/h, the EB12 is equipped with a 422 kWh LFP battery pack from CATL, providing over 400 km of range (SORT 2 cycle) and supporting 140 kW fast charging.

   Passenger capacity reaches up to 90 people, including 35 seated, 54 standing, and one wheelchair space, with customizable interiors. Advanced features include dual-zone climate control with heat pump technology, full air suspension, 26 USB charging ports, and a comprehensive ADAS suite featuring drowsiness detection, blind spot monitoring, intelligent speed assistance, and forward collision warning. The model fully complies with UNECE and CE regulations and has been available for orders in Europe since its debut.

   The compact EB8, an 8.6-meter midibus tailored for agile urban and feeder routes, measures 8,610 mm long, 2,470 mm wide, and 3,220 mm high. It uses a single 200 kW central electric motor for a top speed of 80 km/h and a 359 kWh battery (sourced from Gotion in some configurations), delivering more than 290 km of range per charge with 120 kW fast charging capability. It accommodates up to 60 passengers (24 seated, one wheelchair space, and 35 standing), and includes amenities like full air suspension, single-zone automatic climate control, an electric wheelchair ramp, and the same robust safety package as the EB12.

    Both models draw on VinFast's four years of real-world experience operating over 300 electric buses across five major Vietnamese cities, where the company has built a complete ecosystem for production, deployment, and maintenance. Manufacturing takes place at VinFast's state-of-the-art facility in Vietnam, boasting an annual capacity of 1,500–2,000 units.

   VinFast backs the EB8 and EB12 with industry-leading warranties: five years/unlimited mileage on the entire vehicle, plus eight years/unlimited mileage on the battery and anti-corrosion protection (with at least 80% state-of-health guaranteed after eight years for the EB12).

"Le Thi Thu Thuy, Vice Chairwoman of Vingroup and Chairwoman of VinFast, emphasized the company's vision: 'VinFast was founded with the aspiration of democratizing electric mobility. Through our comprehensive product ecosystem, ranging from personal cars to buses, we stand ready to collaborate with individuals, corporate partners, and communities worldwide.'"

   The company is forging strategic partnerships with European transport and infrastructure specialists to establish distribution networks in key markets including Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, Sweden, Central and Eastern Europe, and the Baltic states. First deliveries and commercial operations for both models are slated to begin in 2026, aligning with broader ambitions for zero-emission public transit and sustainable urban development.

   As 2026 unfolds, VinFast's entry into the electric bus segment underscores its rapid evolution from a domestic player to a global contender in e-mobility, contributing to Europe's goals of reducing emissions and enhancing smart, accessible transportation. With ongoing expansions in India and other regions—including plans for e-buses in additional markets—the EB8 and EB12 represent a pivotal step toward a cleaner, greener future for mass transit.

China's heavy-duty electric truck sector (primarily Class 8 equivalents for long-haul, regional haul, dump, mixer, and tractor applications) is experiencing explosive growth in 2025-2026, far outpacing other global markets. Battery-electric heavy trucks captured 22% of new heavy-duty sales in the first half of 2025 (up from ~9% in H1 2024), rising to 28% by August 2025. Forecasts indicate nearly 46% penetration in 2025 overall and around 60% in 2026, driven by falling costs, battery-swapping infrastructure (now ~40% of deployments), government incentives, and standardized swappable packs like CATL's "75#" module (compatible with dozens of models).

While few entirely "new" flagship models were announced in late 2025/early 2026 beyond ongoing expansions, the market features rapid iterations, new variants, and aggressive scaling from major players. Key developments and models include:

• Sany Heavy Industry (top seller in electric heavy trucks): Continues dominating with battery-swapping and plug-in models for construction, logistics, and haul. Sany plans to export its electric trucks to Europe starting in 2026, having already shipped to the US, Thailand, India, UAE, and others. No brand-new model announcements in recent months, but production ramps and autonomous integrations (e.g., with Pony.ai for Gen-4 trucks mass production in 2026) support growth.

• BYD: Expanded lineup includes electric tractors, dump trucks, and mixers for long-haul and urban construction. Showcased models at the 2025 China Commercial Vehicles Show (e.g., Q3 electric tractor). BYD broke ground on an electric truck/bus factory in Hungary in 2025 to support European exports and meet carbon targets.

• Foton (BAIC Foton): Active in heavy-duty EVs, including refrigerated variants like the OLLIN iBlue El-Plus for cold-chain. New cyber-style Cavan Beacon (joint with Bosch Ventures/Boyuan Capital) launched late Q1 2026 expectations—features streamlined cabin, camera mirrors, dual motors (up to 350 kW), ~500 km range, and 6x4/4x4 configs for heavy haul.

• Other major players (Dongfeng, Sinotruk, FAW, XCMG, Zoomlion, Shacman): Rapidly shifting to new energy powertrains. Sinotruk and FAW report strong NEV sales growth (>200% YoY in some periods). Dongfeng launched G-Series high-end heavy-duty brand (including electric variants) at 2026 summits. New models often focus on battery-swapping compatibility, high-power motors, and vocational uses.

• Windrose Technology (Chinese startup): Launched R700 Class 8 electric semi in the US (2025), with >418-mile range (700+ kWh battery), low drag (0.2755 Cd), and plans for Georgia assembly plant to avoid tariffs. Aiming for 2025-2026 deliveries; positioned as Tesla Semi rival.

• Broader trends: Battery swapping accelerates adoption (CATL targets 300 stations by end-2025, expanding nationwide). High-power charging demos (e.g., 1.39 MW triple-gun setups) emerge. Exports surge, with Chinese firms enabling global decarbonization where local supply lags.

The sector prioritizes short/medium-haul and vocational applications due to infrastructure advantages, though long-haul improves with swapping and megawatt charging. Challenges remain (e.g., grid strain, standardization), but momentum positions China to lead globally, with projections of 50-80% electrification by 2028.

For visuals of recent Chinese heavy-duty EVs (e.g., Sany swapping models, BYD tractors, Foton/Cavan designs, and high-power charging demos):

These examples highlight the practical, high-volume designs dominating China's market. The shift is reshaping global diesel/LNG demand and pressuring Western OEMs to accelerate

CES 2026 Spotlight: Electric Bicycles, Scooters, and Motorcycles Electrify the Show Floor

   Las Vegas, NV – January 14, 2026 – The Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2026 wrapped up its first week with a strong emphasis on sustainable micromobility, as manufacturers unveiled a wave of advanced electric bicycles (e-bikes), electric scooters, and electric motorcycles designed to redefine urban commuting, off-road adventures, and high-performance riding. From tech-integrated commuters to boundary-pushing superbikes, the event highlighted faster charging, smarter features, and expanded ranges, signaling a maturing market for electric two-wheelers.

Segway Leads with Versatile E-Bikes and Off-Road Power

Segway, a dominant force in micromobility, made one of the biggest splashes by expanding its e-bike lineup and debuting an electric dirt bike. The Myon, a commuter and leisure e-bike priced at $1,999 and available now, features a 500W motor with 85Nm torque, selectable Class 1/2/3 modes (up to 28 mph assisted), electronic shifting via a 9-speed Shimano CUES drivetrain, and up to 80 miles of range from a 722Wh battery. It integrates Segway's Intelligent Ride System for anti-theft (including Apple Find My and Lost Mode), OTA updates, auto-headlights, and app connectivity.

   The Muxi, a compact utility/short-tail e-bike (priced at $1,699, launching March 2026), offers a 750W direct-drive motor, single-speed setup, Hill Start Assist, and similar smart features with up to 80 miles range. Both models emphasize customization, modularity, and automotive-inspired safety.

    Segway also introduced the Xaber 300 electric dirt bike (pronounced "say-br"), inspired by Dakar Rally prototypes. Priced at $5,299.99 and slated for spring/summer 2026 release, it simulates 150/200/300cc power modes, includes an electronic clutch, Traction Control System (TCS), and parental controls for wheelie limits—making it accessible for beginners while thrilling for experts.

   Yadea Targets North America with Rugged and Commuter Models

   Yadea, the world's top-selling electric two-wheeler brand, debuted the FATBOY and FLO e-bikes tailored for North America. The FATBOY, a rugged fat-tire model with 20x4.5-inch tires and a 750Wh battery, delivers up to 87 miles range for cross-terrain leisure and light off-road use. The FLO focuses on urban commuting with a 500W motor and torque sensor for natural assist. Backed by a Mexico manufacturing hub and $150 million R&D investment, these models underscore Yadea's push into Western markets.

High-Performance Scooters from Navee and INMOTION

Electric scooters pushed boundaries with premium, high-speed designs. Navee showcased the UT5 Ultra X, a dual 2,400W-motor "hyperscooter" with supercar-inspired styling, 43 mph top speed, 0-12 mph in 1.98 seconds, hydraulic suspension, and up to 87 miles claimed range (priced around $2,499). The off-road-focused NT5 Ultra X hits 40 mph with dual 1,200W motors, ABS brakes, and 56 miles range. Navee also teased wild concepts like an AI golf cart and electric seaplane.

INMOTION highlighted high-performance options, including the upcoming RS PRO scooter (up to 94 mph top speed) and the flagship P6 electric unicycle (93 mph), emphasizing SiC high-voltage platforms and automotive-grade batteries.

Electric Motorcycles: Solid-State Breakthroughs

   The event's most futuristic reveals came in electric motorcycles. Verge Motorcycles debuted an updated TS Pro with what it claims is the world's first production solid-state battery in a road vehicle (via partner Donut Lab). Options include a 20.2 kWh pack (217 miles range) or 33.3 kWh (370 miles), with 10-minute fast charging to 80% via NACS (Tesla-style) plug, 737 lb-ft torque, 0-60 mph in 3.5 seconds, and top speed of 124 mph. Pricing starts at $29,900, with deliveries in Q1 2026.

 Other highlights included the Novus One (U.S. debut: 430Nm torque, 80 mph top speed, ~80 miles range, full carbon fiber, $19,000–$24,000) and various concepts blurring e-bike and e-moto lines.

Trends and Takeaways

CES 2026 underscored micromobility's evolution: smarter connectivity (apps, anti-theft, OTA), longer ranges, off-road capability, and solid-state battery adoption for faster charging and safety. Brands like Segway, Navee, Yadea, and Verge are making electric two-wheelers more accessible and performant, appealing to commuters, adventurers, and thrill-seekers alike.

Many models are available now or launching soon—check official sites for regional availability, regulations, and real-world testing. As urban mobility shifts greener, CES 2026 proved electric two-wheelers are accelerating toward mainstream adoption.

• The Brussels Motor Show 2026, the 102nd edition of Europe's longstanding automotive showcase, kicked off on January 9 and runs through January 18 at Brussels Expo. This year's event has solidified its position as a key launchpad for the industry, drawing over 60 car brands, more than 20 motorcycle marques, and a host of equipment manufacturers across fully booked halls exceeding 50,000 m². With electric mobility dominating discussions amid Europe's push for sustainable transport, the show delivered a strong lineup of electric vehicles (EVs), from compact city cars to performance-oriented models and practical commercial options.

• The spotlight shone brightly on electrification, with several world premieres and European debuts emphasizing longer ranges, faster charging, and broader accessibility. Kia made a major splash by unveiling the Kia EV2, a compact B-segment electric SUV positioned as an approachable "gateway" to EVs for first-time buyers. Featuring class-leading interior space, intuitive tech like Pet Mode for parked comfort, and a claimed WLTP range of up to 448 km, the EV2 is set to enter production early in 2026 with standard, long-range, and GT-Line variants. Kia also showcased sporty GT versions of the EV3, EV4, and EV5, highlighting dual-motor all-wheel drive and performance-tuned dynamics to make EVs more engaging.

• Chinese brands continued their European expansion with notable entries. Zeekr presented the 7GT, an electric shooting brake (station wagon) on the 800V PMA2+ platform, offering 75 kWh or 100 kWh batteries for WLTP ranges of 519–655 km and ultra-fast 450 kW charging (10-80% in 13 minutes). The rear-wheel-drive version delivers 310 kW (416 hp). Meanwhile, Leapmotor introduced the affordable B03X SUV, a compact model with a 90 kW (121 hp) single motor, modern styling including flush handles and optional LiDAR, targeting budget-conscious buyers.

• Hyundai emphasized its electrification strategy with the world premiere of the STARIA Electric, the brand's first fully electric multi-purpose vehicle (MPV), expanding its EV portfolio into family-oriented segments. The show also teased the upcoming IONIQ 3 (Concept THREE), a compact, Europe-designed and -produced EV aimed at everyday usability and accessibility.

• Toyota surprised with the ninth-generation Hilux pickup, featuring a fully electric BEV variant alongside a 48-volt mild hybrid. The electric Hilux, due in April 2026, boasts a 59.2 kWh battery, dual-motor all-wheel drive, up to 380 km urban range (WLTP), 715 kg payload, and 1.6-ton towing capacity—positioning it as a practical choice for European commercial users.

• Other highlights included Opel's battery-electric advancements, such as the Grandland Electric AWD (the brand's first all-wheel-drive EV with 239 kW/325 hp) and the extended-range Frontera Electric. Concepts like Hyundai's Insteroid and various GSE Vision models from Opel added flair, blending futuristic design with rally-inspired performance.

• The event also hosted the European Car of the Year 2026 announcement, with electric and electrified contenders prominent among finalists. Visitors enjoyed interactive activities, fleet-focused networking, and LEZ-related incentives for Brussels residents.

• As the first major auto show of 2026, Brussels underscored the accelerating shift to electric vehicles, with manufacturers addressing range anxiety, charging infrastructure, and affordability to drive mainstream adoption in Europe. The show remains open to the public until January 18, offering a comprehensive look at the future of sustainable mobility.

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   Kosmera, a new Chinese electric vehicle brand backed by the Dreame ecosystem (known for smart home appliances like robot vacuums), has dropped exciting teasers for two high-performance prototypes set to make their global debut at CES 2026 in Las Vegas (January 6–9). 

Brutal Cold and Battery Blues

Driving an electric car during a mild spring afternoon feels effortless. The torque arrives instantly, the cabin remains silent, and the range estimator stays honest. However, move that experience to Yakeshi, Inner Mongolia, where temperatures routinely plummet to minus twenty-five degrees Celsius, and the narrative changes entirely. Autohome, the largest automotive outlet in China, recently wrapped up its annual winter evaluation. The findings serve as a cold shower for anyone expecting laboratory-grade performance in sub-zero environments.

The testing site in Yakeshi provides a merciless backdrop for modern machinery. When the mercury hits such lows, the chemical reactions inside a battery pack slow down to a crawl. The electrolyte liquid becomes more viscous, hindering the movement of lithium ions between the anode and cathode. The Autohome team focused on seven key categories to see which manufacturers actually managed to engineer their way out of a frozen stalemate. These categories included range, consumption, fast charging, air conditioning efficiency, automated emergency braking, acceleration, and off-road capability.

The Science of Lithium Ion Sluggishness

To understand why these tests matter, one must look at the internal resistance of the battery. As the temperature drops, internal resistance increases. That physical reality means more energy is wasted as heat instead of being converted into motion. It also means that regenerative braking, which usually helps claw back some efficiency, is often severely curtailed or disabled entirely to protect the cells from damage.

• Lithium ion mobility decreases significantly as temperatures fall below zero.
• Battery management systems must divert precious energy to internal heaters just to keep the pack operational.
• High voltage systems struggle to maintain consistent output under heavy load in extreme frost.

Automakers often quote range figures based on the China Light-Duty Vehicle Test Cycle, which assumes moderate temperatures and gentle driving. In the real world, especially in a place like Inner Mongolia, those numbers evaporate faster than hot coffee in a blizzard. The Autohome data highlights a staggering gap between marketing promises and icy reality. Some vehicles lost over half of their advertised range during the long-distance endurance runs.

Real World Range Versus Laboratory Estimates

Range remains the primary anxiety for potential buyers. During the Autohome evaluation, the team drove a variety of models until the batteries were completely depleted. The results were telling. Vehicles equipped with heat pumps generally fared better than those relying on traditional resistive heaters. A heat pump works like a refrigerator in reverse, scavenging heat from the outside air and the drivetrain to warm the cabin. Even at minus twenty degrees, a well-tuned heat pump can offer a substantial efficiency advantage.

Consumption figures were equally eye-opening. The kilowatt-hour per hundred kilometer metrics nearly doubled for several popular sedans. When the car has to fight against thickened grease in the bearings, high-rolling resistance from winter tires, and the constant demand of the HVAC system, efficiency takes a backseat. The data suggests that buyers in cold climates should essentially halve the official range figures when planning a winter road trip.

• Heat pump technology remains a critical factor for maintaining efficiency in sub-zero conditions.
• Aerodynamic drag increases in cold, dense air, further penalizing high-speed highway travel.
• Energy consumption for cabin heating can sometimes equal the energy used for propulsion itself.

Fast Charging Hurdles in Inner Mongolia

If the reduced range was not enough of a headache, the charging times in Yakeshi were enough to test the patience of a saint. Cold batteries cannot accept high currents. If a charger attempts to force energy into a frozen cell, it can cause lithium plating, which permanently degrades the battery and can even lead to short circuits. Consequently, the car's computer throttles the charging speed until the pack reaches a safe temperature.

The Autohome test measured the time required to go from thirty to eighty percent state of charge. In optimal conditions, some of these cars can complete that task in under twenty minutes. In the Inner Mongolian frost, some took over an hour. The most successful models used pre-conditioning software. By using the navigation system to flag a charging stop, the car began warming the battery pack while still on the move. That foresight allowed for much faster speeds upon arrival at the plug.

• Battery pre-conditioning is no longer a luxury but a necessity for winter usability.
• Charging curves at minus twenty degrees are significantly flatter than those at room temperature.
• Thermal management systems play a pivotal role in determining the total duration of a winter commute.

Active Safety Performance on Slick Surfaces

Safety tech like Automated Emergency Braking is great on dry asphalt, but how does it handle a sheet of ice? The Autohome crew tested these systems against stationary targets on low-friction surfaces. The results were mixed. Camera-based systems struggled with the glare from the snow and the frost buildup on the windshield. Lidar and radar units were generally more reliable, but the physical limitation of tire grip on ice meant that even the smartest computer could not defy the laws of physics.

Stopping distances on ice are roughly four to five times longer than on dry pavement. The software must account for this discrepancy. Some systems were too aggressive, triggering ABS too early and losing steering control, while others were too timid, failing to apply enough pressure to avoid a collision. The best performers utilized sophisticated torque vectoring to maintain stability while the brakes were pulsing.

• Sensor calibration must account for snow interference and lens frosting.
• Braking algorithms require specific winter tuning to prevent wheels from locking on black ice.
• Integration between the stability control and the emergency braking system is crucial for avoiding skids.

Off Road Capabilities and Low Grip Physics

The off-road portion of the test was particularly grueling. Deep snow acts a lot like sand, requiring constant momentum and precise throttle control. For an electric motor, the challenge is managing the massive, instantaneous torque. Without a fine-tuned traction control system, the wheels simply spin and dig a hole, high-centering the vehicle.

Some dual-motor setups showed impressive prowess. By independenty controlling the front and rear axles, the computers could send power to the wheels with the most bite. However, the added weight of the battery packs worked against them in some scenarios. A heavy SUV can sink into soft snow banks where a lighter internal combustion vehicle might stay on top. The Autohome testing emphasized the importance of dedicated winter driving modes that soften the initial power delivery to prevent wheel spin.

• Electric motors provide excellent low-end torque for climbing through snow, provided the software can manage the grip.
• Ground clearance is a limiting factor when traversing unplowed Mongolian trails.
• Low temperature affects the elasticity of rubber seals and suspension bushings, impacting ride quality.

Cabin Comfort and Thermal Management

Nobody wants to drive while shivering. The air conditioning test measured how long it took for the cabin to reach a comfortable twenty degrees Celsius from a cold soak at minus twenty. This is where the sheer power of the electrical system is put to the test. Some cars managed to toast the occupants in less than ten minutes, while others struggled to keep the windows clear of fog.

The trade-off is obvious: every watt used to warm your toes is a watt that will not move the wheels. Modern designs are increasingly using radiant heating panels in the doors and floorboards to keep passengers warm with less energy than blowing hot air around. Autohome noted that seat and steering wheel heaters are far more efficient than the main HVAC system, advising drivers to lean on those features to preserve range.

• Efficient thermal management involves more than just a powerful heater; it requires smart insulation.
• Remote start and cabin pre-heating while plugged in are the best ways to ensure comfort without sacrificing mileage.
• Defrosting performance is a critical safety metric that varies wildly between budget and premium models.

Future Directions for Cold Weather Engineering

The 2025 winter test from Autohome proves that while the industry has come a long way, the cold remains a formidable adversary. The transition to solid-state batteries could eventually solve many of these issues, as they are theoretically less sensitive to temperature fluctuations. Until then, engineers must continue to refine heat pump designs, battery chemistry, and thermal insulation.

For the average driver, the takeaway is clear. If you live in a region where the wind chill makes your face hurt, you need to do your homework. Look for vehicles with advanced thermal management and robust battery pre-conditioning. The Autohome results provide the data needed to cut through the fluff and see which cars can actually survive a night in the frozen north without becoming a glorified ice cube.

• Solid state batteries offer a potential long term solution to cold weather performance degradation.
• Software updates continue to improve how existing cars manage their energy reserves in winter.
• The Yakeshi tests remain a vital reality check for an industry moving toward total electrification.