How does it compare?
Speed
Let’s face it, in the world of electric buses, speed is not the crux of the matter. The e.COBUS 3000 clocks in at a respectable top speed of 65 mph (105 km/h). The BYD K9 trails behind ever so slightly at 60 mph (96 km/h), whereas the Proterra Catalyst E2 matches pace with the COBUS at 65 mph (105 km/h). On the other hand, the Mercedes-Benz eCitaro is less concerned about breaking speed records, cruising comfortably at 50 mph (80 km/h). Clearly, the e.COBUS 3000 stands shoulder-to-shoulder with its speedier rivals.
Range
Next up, the holy grail of any electric vehicle: range. The e.COBUS 3000 is armed with a 120 kWh battery offering a commendable range of 160 miles (257 km). Meanwhile, the BYD K9 offers an impressive 155 miles (250 km). The Proterra Catalyst E2 leaves its competitors eating dust with a whopping 250 miles (402 km). The Mercedes-Benz eCitaro, meanwhile, delivers a sturdy performance at 150 miles (241 km). Undoubtedly, the Catalyst E2 takes the crown, but the COBUS holds its own quite well.
Power
Torque aficionados, this ones for you. The e.COBUS 3000 belts out a robust 200 kW of power. In comparison, the BYD K9 churns out 180 kW. Pulling ahead in the power game is the Proterra Catalyst E2 with an outrageous 350 kW, and the Mercedes-Benz eCitaro ignites the tarmac with its 243 kW. No prizes for guessing who’s the heavyweight here.
Charging Time
What good is an electric bus if it’s perpetually tethered to a charging cable? The e.COBUS 3000 refuels its electric soul in roughly 3.5 hours. The BYD K9 totes a similar figure, clocking in at 4 hours. The Proterra Catalyst E2, despite its massive battery, refreshes in about 3 hours. Similarly, the Mercedes-Benz eCitaro claims a full charge in 3.5 hours. Efficient and swift, the COBUS fares splendidly here.
Price
While the e.COBUS 3000 keeps its price cards close to the chest, let’s delve into the benchmarks. The BYD K9 struts in at around $400,000 (£315,000/€367,000). The Proterra Catalyst E2 doesn’t shy away, demanding upwards of $700,000 (£552,000/€644,000). Lastly, the Mercedes-Benz eCitaro entries at approximately $500,000 (£394,000/€459,000). While the COBUS’s price remains a mystery, its likely to be positioned competitively in this golden triangle.
In this electrifying showdown among the e.COBUS 3000, BYD K9, Proterra Catalyst E2, and the Mercedes-Benz eCitaro, each brings unique strengths to the table. Speed, range, power, charging efficiency, and price—each facet reveals the evolving prowess and competition in the electric bus arena.

