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Based on the seating capacity, the market is divided into Below 10 seats, 10 - 20 seats, and above 20 seats. The 10 - 20 seats segment is expected to hold over 40% of the market share by 2032. This size range provides a blend of passenger capacity and maneuverability. They can negotiate tight streets and congested areas more efficiently than bigger buses, making them excellent for urban settings as well as for sightseeing tours, airport shuttles, and accessing isolated sites.
Along with this, the 10 to 20-seater sector provides an ideal blend of passenger capacity and operational expenses. They utilize less fuel than larger buses and are frequently exempt from some laws or licensing requirements that would apply to larger vehicles. They also provide a more pleasant travel experience than smaller vans, with more capacity for baggage and legroom for people, making them ideal for extended travels or tours.
Based on propulsion, the market is categorized into ICE, electric, and hybrid. The ICE segment holds around 75% of the minibus market share in 2023. ICE minibuses are often less expensive to acquire than electric or hybrid vehicles. This is an important consideration for many firms, particularly smaller operators, or those in cost-conscious areas. The cheaper initial expenditure enables faster fleet deployment and greater return on investment.
In contrast to charging facilities for electric minibuses, gas stations are widely distributed and easily accessible around the globe. This makes ICE minibuses easier to run, particularly on lengthy travels or in locations with inadequate electric car infrastructure. In addition to this, there is a wide availability of mechanics with experience maintaining and repairing ICE engines. This results in reduced maintenance costs and shorter repair periods as compared to electric or hybrid minibuses that typically require specialist experts or components.
Asia Pacific minibus market size dominated around USD 4.9 billion in 2023. As cities across the region expand, the demand for efficient and flexible transportation choices such as minibuses is set to increase. Minibuses can handle crowded regions and provide first- and last-mile connections, making them excellent for urban settings. The Asia Pacific area is a major tourist destination, leading to a growing demand for minibuses for imparting a comfortable and personalized travel experience for groups. Along with this, large investments in airports, hotels, and corporate headquarters around the area are driving up demand for minibuses for passenger shuttles and transportation services.
U.S. minibus market will register substantial growth between 2024 and 2032, driven by the rising demand for shared and group transportation options, especially for tourism, corporate events, and community services. Minibuses provide flexible and cost-effective solutions for transporting small to medium-sized groups. Additionally, the growth of the ride-sharing and shuttle service industries has increased demand for minibusses as they offer efficient, convenient, and comfortable transport. Environmental concerns and stricter emissions regulations are further driving the market toward more sustainable options such as electric minibusses. This apart, advancements in safety features and modern amenities enhance the appeal of minibusses to both operators and passengers.