Kim Long Motor signs landmark bus export deal

Kim Long Motor signs landmark bus export deal

Kim Long Motor has signed its first large-scale bus export contract with a strategic partner in Southeast Asia, underscoring the growing quality and production capabilities of Vietnamese manufacturers on the global stage.

The sales cooperation agreement was signed between Kim Long Motor Hue JSC and Thailand's Cho Thavee Group on June 27, marking an important step in its regional expansion to Thailand following its recent entry into the South Korean market.

Under the agreement, Kim Long Motor will supply 3,000 electric buses and Yuchai-engine buses annually to Cho Thavee Group, with production taking place at its engine manufacturing plant in Hue.

Speaking at the ceremony, Dao Viet Anh, general director of Kim Long Motor, said, "After South Korea, Thailand is the latest country to purchase Kim Long-branded buses to ensure people make safe and comfortable journeys to their destinations. This marks a significant milestone in the development and integration process of Kim Long Motor and is a demonstration of our strong commitment to delivering high-quality, internationally standardised commercial vehicles to the regional market."

Khun Ju, board member of Cho Thavee Group and CEO of NP Energysaving, said, "We are greatly impressed by the rapid growth, modern production system, and professionalism of Kim Long Motor. Our assessments show that Kim Long buses meet high technical standards and are easily customised to suit the needs of Thai people. This collaboration is a crucial link in our strategy to develop a sustainable transport network across Southeast Asia."

Both vehicle models selected in the agreement between Kim Long Motor and Cho Thavee are newly developed, based on international technical standards and flexibly customised to suit Thailand’s climate, transportation infrastructure, and operational regulations.

Among them, the 12-metre electric bus stands out with its modern, environmentally friendly design. Equipped with advanced high-capacity battery technology, it ensures smooth, stable, and efficient operation under various conditions. With energy-saving capabilities and reduced emissions, this bus model meets green transportation development goals and aligns with the Thai government’s sustainable energy transition strategy.

The second product is a 7.5-metre diesel bus meeting Euro 5 emission standards, designed with a compact size and greater manoeuvrability – ideal for crowded urban areas or short-distance routes. The bus is equipped with a Yuchai engine – a leading Chinese brand – manufactured directly at the Kim Long Motor engine manufacturing plant in Hue.

Groundbreaking for the $260 million-plant took place last August, which boasts automation levels exceeding 90 per cent. Additionally, the vehicle has been researched and developed by Kim Long Motor’s engineering team to optimise durability, fuel efficiency, and maintenance costs – key factors that enhance operational efficiency for transport businesses.

Cho Thavee Group, established in 1968 and headquartered in Khon Kaen Province, Thailand, offers a diverse range of products and services – from standard products to specialised designs including trucks, semi-trailers, buses, airport equipment, light rail systems, and smart urban solutions.

The group provides comprehensive solutions in transportation and heavy industry. For many years, Cho Thavee has been a strategic partner to major transportation organisations in Thailand and has played a vital role in promoting the development of intelligent, sustainable transportation in the country.

Amid rising demand for green, smart, and sustainable transportation in Southeast Asia, the partnership between Kim Long Motor and Cho Thavee carries long-term strategic significance. It opens major opportunities for both sides to grow together while contributing to the promotion of sustainable transportation trends in the region.

Backed by high-quality products, a state-of-the-art research, development, and manufacturing centre, a team of seasoned engineers, and a strong commitment to international collaboration, Kim Long Motor continues to assert its position as one of Vietnam’s leading commercial vehicle brands, ready to accompany global partners on the journey to shaping a smarter, safer, and more eco-friendly transportation future.

On June 2, Kim Long Motor handed over the first electric bus to South Korea's Daon Mobility Co., Ltd. under the contract signed between the two sides in April. Kim Long Motor will supply 200 buses of different kinds annually for tour services and student support in South Korea.

This marked a significant step for Kim Long Motor and the Vietnamese vehicle industry, highlighting the country’s growing technological capabilities and competitiveness in the global market.

VIR