Portuguese bus manufacturer CaetanoBus has launched a new generation of zero-emission urban buses in 8.5-, 12-, and 18-metre versions, offering battery-electric options across all models and hydrogen-powered variants in the larger sizes. The lineup features significant drivetrain updates, including new partnerships with battery supplier CATL and motor systems from CRRC.
The revised models mark CaetanoBus’ shift from NMC to LFP battery chemistry, with CATL’s BC5 battery system now standard across the fleet. The system supports energy capacities of up to 266 kWh, 465 kWh, and 700 kWh for the 8.5-, 12-, and 18-metre models respectively. The LFP cells are designed for a long cycle life, exceeding 4,000 charge cycles, according to CaetanoBus, which claims they offer more than a decade of reliable performance with minimal degradation.
The company is also replacing its previous Siemens motors with a new 6-in-1 integrated drivetrain supplied by CRRC. This system consolidates motor functions and control components into a single unit and is said to be up to 70% lighter due to the use of high-voltage IGBT technology and direct liquid cooling. While the BEVs adopt the CRRC drivetrain, the hydrogen-powered H2 City Gold buses continue to use Toyota’s 2.5-generation fuel cell stack, which delivers 70 kW of output and is now paired with the new CRRC motor and CATL battery modules.
“The new generation of CAETANO buses represents the forefront of e-mobility engineering,” said Nuno Lago de Carvalho, CCO and Executive Committee member at CaetanoBus. “Our common platform approach, spanning from 8.5m to 18m models, ensures flexibility and efficiency while seamlessly integrating battery-electric and hydrogen fuel cell systems.”
CaetanoBus, which is jointly owned by Toyota Caetano Portugal and Mitsui & Co., has co-branded with Toyota since 2021. The manufacturer says demand remains strong for both battery and hydrogen buses, with recent orders including the e.City Gold for Lisbon. The new 18-metre model will also be offered in a Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) configuration, designed with doors on both sides. A hydrogen-powered coach, developed in collaboration with Temsa, is also in the pipeline.