Hyundai launches electric minibus, with artificial engine noise

South Korean automotive giant Hyundai Motor Company has launched the company’s first electric minibus, introducing the County Electric for the Korean market, described by the company as “an economical, eco-friendly, safe, and convenient alternative to diesel-powered buses.”

The new Hyundai County Electric measures in at 7,710mm in length and is equipped with a high-efficiency, high-power 128kWh lithium-ion-polymer battery providing a range of 250 kilometres on a single full charge.

“County Electric is a zero-emission bus that offers tremendous safety and convenience features for drivers and passengers,” said Yoon Lee, VP and head of commercial vehicles at Hyundai Motors.

“With demand for electric vehicles rising in the commercial vehicle market, Hyundai is accelerating its introduction of vehicles such as the County Electric.

The County Electric boasts 30% faster acceleration compared to diesel models within the 50 to 80km/h range and is equipped with electronically controlled, air-over-hydraulic(AOH) brake system with more robust brake discs to handle increased vehicle weight due to the battery.

Hyundai will offer the bus in configurations with 15 to 33 seats. The County Electric will also come with what Hyundai is describing as “the latest safety technologies to prevent accidents when passengers get on and off.”

Specifically, various sensors located near the middle door of the bus prevent the door from closing while a passenger is getting on or off, while sensors will also trigger an alarm when a body part gets caught in the door and will automatically open the door.

An ultrasonic sensor will also prevent the bus from moving forward from a stop when passenger movement is detected, and the County Electric will also come with a virtual engine sound system and rear parking assist to warn pedestrians and prevent accidents.

Joshua S. Hill is a Melbourne-based journalist who has been writing about climate change, clean technology, and electric vehicles for over 15 years. He has been reporting on electric vehicles and clean technologies for Renew Economy and The Driven since 2012. His preferred mode of transport is his feet.