How does it compare?
In the bustling world of electric transit, the CHARIOT e-bus 12 m stands as a formidable contender among its electrified peers. Oh, but don’t just take my word for it; let’s pit it against the heavyweights like the Proterra Catalyst E2, BYD K9S, New Flyer Xcelsior, and the Volvo 7900 Electric.
Speed
The CHARIOT e-bus 12 m shuns convention with a top speed of 65 mph (104 km/h). It’s no slouch, but it’s a tad slower when compared to the Proterra Catalyst E2, which pushes the envelope at 70 mph (113 km/h). Meanwhile, the BYD K9S, happy at a leisurely pace, cruises comfortably at 62 mph (100 km/h). The New Flyer Xcelsior is a fair middle ground at 65 mph (104 km/h), and the Volvo 7900 Electric, with Scandinavian coolness, retains a modest 55 mph (89 km/h).
Range
Range anxiety? Not with these titans. The CHARIOT e-bus 12 m proclaims a respectable range of 250 miles (402 km). Yet, the Proterra Catalyst E2 raises the stakes with a staggering 350 miles (563 km). The BYD K9S takes it easy at 150 miles (241 km). The New Flyer Xcelsior hits a sweet spot with 200 miles (322 km), while the Volvo 7900 Electric swings back to a conservative 124 miles (200 km).
Power
A bus’s clout lies in its power, and the CHARIOT e-bus 12 m thunders proudly with a 345 kWh battery. Of course, the Proterra Catalyst E2 flexes muscles with an 660 kWh behemoth. The BYD K9S is no weakling, touting 324 kWh. The New Flyer Xcelsior delivers a potent 466 kWh, while the Volvo 7900 Electric hails a charming 200 kWh battery.
Charging Time
When it comes to sipping electrons, the CHARIOT e-bus 12 m refuels in roughly 5 hours on a high-power charger. On par, the Proterra Catalyst E2 also climbs back to full charge in an identical 5-hour stint. The BYD K9S brags a quicker 4-hour charge, yet the New Flyer Xcelsior lingers longer at just over 6 hours. The Volvo 7900 Electric clocks an efficient 3 hours, besting them all with its nimble turnaround.
Price
Your wallet will feel the pinch here. The price for the CHARIOT e-bus 12 m sets you back at approximately $400,000 (around £308,000, €360,000). Comparatively, the Proterra Catalyst E2 bites harder at $649,000 (£500,000, €583,000). The BYD K9S offers a more palatable $300,000 (£231,000, €269,000). For the New Flyer Xcelsior, you’re looking at $225,000 (£173,000, €202,000), and the Volvo 7900 Electric meets you in the middle at $450,000 (£346,000, €405,000).

