BYD C8 – A Mid-Sized Electric Coach for Modern Transit
The BYD C8 is a 34-foot (10.5-meter) electric coach bus purpose-built for intercity and shuttle applications. Manufactured in China and priced at $300,000 (€277,800), the C8 fills a sweet spot between compact models like the BYD C6 and larger 12-meter coaches. It’s designed for operations that require passenger volume, maneuverability, and zero emissions—think regional tourism, corporate transport, or resort shuttles.
BYD C8 Price – Premium, But Justified
At $300,000 (€277,800), the C8 isn’t cheap—but it balances cost with long-term savings. Between government incentives, reduced maintenance, and fuel savings, operators can offset the upfront investment. Diesel buses in this segment may undercut it initially, but the C8’s electric credentials and lower running costs make it a wise long-term play for eco-conscious fleets.
C8 Range – Ideal for Fixed Routes
The 324 kWh battery grants the BYD C8 a driving range of 250 km (155 mi), making it suitable for city-to-suburb or looped shuttle services. While diesel coaches can stretch well beyond, the C8 thrives in environments where routes are predictable and charging stations are within reach.
Battery – Built for Longevity
BYD’s LiFePO4 battery packs offer up to 4,000 charge cycles, renowned for thermal stability and safety. The 324 kWh unit supports overnight charging at depots (typically 3–4 hours via DC fast charge), reducing downtime and keeping the C8 ready for next-day operations. These batteries are robust, minimizing fleet disruptions and long-term cost of ownership.
Speed – Practical for Urban and Regional Routes
Top speed sits around 100 km/h (62 mph), which is plenty for intra-city and regional driving. The electric motor delivers roughly 200 kW of continuous power, with instant torque that helps on inclines and during full-capacity departures. It’s not built for the Autobahn, but it performs right where it’s needed most—around town and on suburban roads.
Exterior – Clean, Streamlined Design
From the outside, the C8 doesn’t scream luxury, but it’s practical and polished. White and metallic finishes dominate, with BYD’s familiar branding. The bus includes wide entry doors, large windows, and a low step height, optimizing visibility and accessibility. Its mid-size form makes it easier to navigate tight depots or narrow curbsides compared to full-length coaches.
Interior – Built to Move People Efficiently
While it technically accommodates 60 passengers, most configurations include 35–40 seats for comfort and space. The layout prioritizes utility—basic seats, overhead bins, and standard A/C. Don’t expect plush recliners or infotainment, but the ride is smooth, and the cabin remains quiet thanks to the all-electric drivetrain.
Comparison – Slotting Between Giants
BYD’s C-series places the C8 perfectly between the 7-meter C6 and the 12-meter C9. Against diesel coaches in the same size class, the C8 wins on operating cost and emissions but loses in raw range. Compared to the C6, it offers much higher passenger capacity and better highway presence while retaining agility for suburban routes.
Availability – Proven on the Ground
Launched globally in 2018, the C8 has found homes in fleets across Asia and North America. Operators from Singapore to California report dependable service in campus, airport, and hospitality shuttles. With production handled in both China and BYD’s U.S. facility in Lancaster, it’s readily available and well-supported in the commercial EV space.
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F.A.Q. about BYD C8:
What is the range of this electric coach bus on a single charge?
The BYD C8 offers a range of up to 250 km (155 miles) per charge, making it suitable for shuttle loops, regional commutes, and tourism services.
How long does it take to fully charge?
The C8 takes approximately 3–4 hours to charge using a DC fast charger, which suits overnight depot charging or scheduled top-ups during breaks.
What is the top speed?
The BYD C8 has a maximum speed of 80–100 km/h (50–62 mph), ideal for urban, suburban, and regional driving.
How many passengers can the C8 accommodate?
The C8 has a total passenger capacity of up to 60 and typically seats around 35–40 passengers depending on the interior configuration. Some versions offer 4 dedicated luxury seats or wheelchair spaces.
What is the battery capacity?
The BYD C8 is equipped with a 324 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) battery, providing stable performance and long lifecycle durability.
What type of battery does it use?
This coach uses BYD’s proprietary lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) battery technology, known for safety, thermal stability, and longevity (up to 4,000 cycles).
Is the BYD C8 suitable for long-distance travel?
No, the BYD C8 is designed for short to medium-distance routes. Its 250 km range limits it to intercity travel, shuttle routes, or local tourism rather than long-distance trips.
What is the price of this electric coach?
The BYD C8 starts at approximately US$ 300,000 (€ price may vary depending on specifications and market location), offering good value when factoring in fuel and maintenance savings.
What are the advantages of using the BYD C8?
The C8 provides zero-emission, quiet operation, low maintenance costs, and a balance between capacity and maneuverability, making it ideal for campuses, airports, or resort shuttles.
Where is the BYD C8 manufactured?
The BYD C8 is manufactured in China, with final assembly options available in BYD’s U.S. facility in Lancaster, California, to meet local compliance standards.
Comparison of BYD C8:
The BYD C8 stands out in the mid-size electric coach segment, offering a 250 km (155-mile) range, 324 kWh battery, and seating for 60 passengers. But how does it compare to rivals like the Proterra ZX5, GreenPower EV550, Yutong E10, and Alexander Dennis Enviro500EV? Let’s take a closer look at how these electric coaches compete on range, performance, capacity, battery, and price.
Range
The BYD C8 delivers a practical 250 km (155 miles) on a single charge—ideal for city-to-city shuttles or resort routes. The Proterra ZX5 leads the segment with up to 529 km (329 miles) using a 660 kWh battery. The GreenPower EV550 clocks around 275 km (171 miles), while the Yutong E10 offers 350 km (217 miles). The Alexander Dennis Enviro500EV hits 300 km (186 miles). The C8 holds its ground in typical shuttle loops but lags behind for long-haul efficiency.
Seating & Capacity
The BYD C8 carries up to 60 passengers depending on layout but seats around 35-40 comfortably for shuttle use. The GreenPower EV550 handles over 50 seats, while the Proterra ZX5 seats 40-42. The Yutong E10 holds up to 44, and the Enviro500EV, a double-decker, maxes out at 130 passengers, though with a much larger footprint. The C8 offers a balanced configuration for medium-volume routes without overcommitting space or size.
Battery & Performance
Powered by a 324 kWh LiFePO4 battery, the BYD C8 delivers smooth torque and whisper-quiet acceleration. The Proterra ZX5 features up to 660 kWh, while the GreenPower EV550 uses a 320 kWh pack, and the Yutong E10 carries 350 kWh. The Enviro500EV packs 472 kWh. With a top speed of 80-100 km/h (50-62 mph) and reliable 150-200 kW electric motor output, the C8 excels in short intercity and commuter routes, though it's not designed for high-speed travel.
Charging Time
The BYD C8 recharges in 3-4 hours with DC fast charging, suitable for overnight depot charging or planned breaks. The Proterra ZX5 matches or beats this with Proterra Energy chargers, while Yutong E10 and GreenPower EV550 require 3-5 hours depending on charger size. The Enviro500EV uses a dual-plug system for faster top-ups, ideal for high-volume urban networks. The C8’s charging time is acceptable but not record-breaking, requiring careful scheduling on high-frequency routes.
Price
At $300,000 (€280,000), the BYD C8 is more affordable than premium coaches. The Proterra ZX5 starts around $750,000 (€700,000), the Enviro500EV can exceed $900,000 (€840,000), and the Yutong E10 comes in at around $320,000 (€300,000). The GreenPower EV550 sits near $400,000 (€375,000). The C8 offers excellent value for operators needing reliable, zero-emission transport without the sticker shock.
Verdict
The BYD C8 is a mid-size electric coach that nails efficiency, simplicity, and versatility. It’s not built for luxury or ultra-long range, but for urban shuttles, campus routes, or regional loops, it’s quiet, reliable, and cost-effective. Compared to its pricier competitors, the C8 hits a sweet spot of range, capacity, and upfront cost, making it a strong choice for operators embracing electric fleets on a budget.
