Hyundai Motor Company has been experimenting with electric vehicles for a long time, including commercial ones. However, County Electric, which debuted in the South Korean home market, is its first mass-produced electric minibus, providing an economical, eco-friendly, safe, and convenient alternative to diesel-powered buses.
The 7.7-meter novelty has several configurations with a capacity of 15 to 33 seats. The mechanics of County Electric use an electric motor whose power and torque data have not been revealed, but announces that it is more powerful than the rest of the buses of its type. The manufacturer notes that County Electric provides a 30% faster acceleration within the 50 to 80 km/h (31-50 mph) range compared to its diesel counterparts.
A high-efficiency and high-power 128-kWh lithium-ion-polymer battery provide a range of 250 kilometers (155 miles) on a single charge – in theory, this may be enough for a full day of work on the route. The battery can be fully charged in 72 minutes using a standard Combo 1 DC system (based on 150kW charging). Also, the battery pack can be charged from a regular 220-volt outlet, but in this case, the process will stretch for 17 hours, and the corresponding charger is optional.
As its performance and weight have increased, Hyundai has equipped its electric minibus with an electronically controlled, air-over-hydraulic(AOH) brake system with more robust brake discs. The brand also points out that its latest creation incorporates the latest technologies to guarantee the safety of travelers. Several sensors prevent the doors from closing when passengers are getting on or off, and can also trigger an alarm when a body part gets caught in the door, automatically opening it to prevent injury.
In addition, the ultrasonic sensor connected to the bus’s acceleration pedal prevents the bus from moving forward from a stop when passenger movement is detected. Among other features of the minibus are a virtual engine sound system and rear parking assistant to warn pedestrians and prevent accidents.
The driver relies on a seat with ventilation and heating, a “smart key” for starting a button that enables remote start, and a multi-function steering wheel. The dashboard houses the main 7-inch color LCD screen and two 4.2-inch auxiliary screens, which display additional information about the operation of various bus systems. County Electric will also have a twin swing-type rear emergency door, seats with a 220-mm-higher backrest, and a new seat belt system that can reduce abdominal pressure during emergency braking.
