Joylong E6 commuter bus lands

JOYLONG has landed its first all-electric commuter bus on Australian soil this week with the 14-seat E6 making its debut in Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney.

Retailed via Global Auto Distributors, the (previous generation) Toyota HiAce Commuter-based Joylong E6 is already “well-proven” in Asian markets, where it serves city and suburban medium-transit roles.

The E6 is powered by a 60kW and 382Nm liquid-cooled electric motor driving the rear wheels. Power is supplied via an 86.1kWh lithium iron phosphate battery (also liquid- cooled) and provides power to the vehicle’s dual-zone climate control for “maximum passenger comfort” when the vehicle is stationary.

Charging is handled by a 22kW OBC Euro type socket supporting 20- or 32-amp three-phase (AC) inputs. Respective charging times are listed at five and four hours, with a 20 to 80 per cent charge time of 2.3 hours possible through a 32-amp connection.

Joylong importer Global Auto Distributors says the E6 offers a driving range of “around 300km”, depending on usage. The vehicle is equipped with four-wheel disc brakes, ABS and EBD and can tow up to 1800kg with approved trailer brakes.

“It is very easy and comfortable to drive, and with the battery pack centrally located under the floor, the (bus’) lower centre of gravity enhances safety in tight and twisty city environs,” said Global Automotive Distributors managing director, Frank Johnson.

“We opted for the six-metre length to make sure there was much more open space in the passenger area and plenty of Aussie legroom.”

Mr Johnson said the 14 fabric-upholstered seats are arranged with Aussie frames in mind and offer adjustable backrests and three-point seatbelts in all positions.

He said the E6’s independent double rear rooftop evaporator provides maximum cooling in even the hottest weather, and that the vehicle is further equipped with driver- and front-seat passenger airbags. The E6 is also equipped with rear parking sensors.

Global Auto Distributors said commuter bus operators will benefit from a “huge reduction” in servicing expenses and down-time with ongoing maintenance of the E6 limited to coolant checks, tyre rotations, and replacing consumable items (such as brake pads).

The importer said it has carried out extensive testing of the E6 over all types of roads and in a range of weather conditions to ensure the bus stands up to Australia’s harsh conditions. It has been “very impressed with the durability of the E6 electric bus”.

Australia is the first Western country to import the E6. The importer says it has worked successfully with the manufacturer over the last two years to ensure Australian Design Rule (ADR) compliance.

Global Auto Distributors have the importation rights for the model through a distribution agreement covering both the Australian and New Zealand market.

Testing and enquiries of the E6 commuter bus are now available through the company’s four distributors in Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney. 

Joylong claims the E6 will result in a payback within two years. The model retails for about $90,000 (plus on-road costs), depending on which state or territory it is purchased in.

Stock is available now, with further stock available within three to four months, depending on shipping.

Local rivals for the E6 include conventionally powered bus variants of models such as the Ford Transit 410L 12-seater ($64,690), Renault Master L3H2 12-seater ($65,850) and Toyota HiAce Commuter SLWB 12-seater ($69,650 - $72,650).