How does it compare?
The CHARIOT e-bus 8.5 m struts into the competitive arena of electric buses with a compact size and promising specs. But how does it stack up against the likes of the BYD K8, Proterra ZX5, Mercedes-Benz eCitaro, and the Yutong E10? Lets dive in.
Speed
While the CHARIOT e-bus 8.5 m can hit up to 62 mph (100 km/h), the BYD K8 provides a slightly more sprightly 65 mph (105 km/h). The Proterra ZX5 fairly matches the BYD with another peak of 65 mph. Meanwhile, both the Mercedes-Benz eCitaro and Yutong E10 hover around 55 mph (90 km/h). So, for those urban routes, CHARIOT holds its tires firm in the middle of the pack.
Range
The CHARIOT e-bus 8.5 m confidently promises a 150-mile (241 km) range on a single charge. The BYD K8 stretches a bit further to approximately 190 miles (306 km). The Proterra ZX5 impresses with up to 329 miles (530 km), a range so vast it could moonlight as a long-distance coach. The Mercedes-Benz eCitaro delivers a respectable 125 miles (200 km), while the Yutong E10 lies somewhere in between with 155 miles (250 km).
Power
Muscular and mighty, the CHARIOT e-bus 8.5 m shoulders a 240 kW electric motor. It falls short of the Proterra ZX5s punchy 335 kW peak output. The BYD K8 and Mercedes-Benz eCitaro are close contenders with 180 kW and 250 kW respectively. The Yutong E10 cranks out 350 kW, proving itself quite the heavyweight in the segment.
Charging Time
Nothing frustrates an operator more than long idle times. The CHARIOT e-bus 8.5 m requires about 2.5 hours for a full charge, an acceptable pit-stop duration. On the speedier end, the Proterra ZX5 and BYD K8 can hook up and power up in about 2 hours. The Mercedes-Benz eCitaro takes a tad longer, around 2.5 to 3 hours. The Yutong E10 matches the Proterra with a 2-hour recharge sprint.
Price
Without a solid price point to plant our flag, the CHARIOT e-bus 8.5 m stands somewhat in the shadows. The BYD K8 typically hovers around $400,000 (£315,000, €370,000), while the Proterra ZX5 often gallops past the $750,000 mark (£590,000, €690,000). The Mercedes-Benz eCitaro demands a hefty sum, roughly $550,000 (£430,000, €505,000). The Yutong E10 balances a bit closer to the entry-level at about $450,000 (£355,000, €415,000).
Conclusively, the CHARIOT e-bus 8.5 m stands firm with respectable performance, making it an intriguing prospect amongst eco-warriors, fleet managers, and green tech enthusiasts alike.

