Minibus Market Trends

The minibus industry has witnessed significant technological advancements and safety features. Ergonomic seats, improved temperature control systems, and onboard entertainment choices improve passenger comfort during journeys. This is especially useful for extended excursions or tours. The integration of technology such as autonomous emergency braking, lane departure warning systems, and blind-spot monitoring considerably increases passenger safety. This is a big selling factor for parents looking for transportation for their children, as well as employers planning staff shuttles. In addition to this, modern minibuses can have Wi-Fi connectivity, USB charging outlets, and digital information displays. These capabilities address the increased desire for travelers to stay connected and informed during their journeys.

For instance, in June 2023, the hydrogen-powered Renault Master minibus, known as the Renault Master City Bus H2-TECH, was launched at the UITP Summit. This innovative minibus features a 30-kW fuel cell, a 33 kWh lithium-ion traction battery, and a tank containing 4.5 kg of hydrogen at 350 bar. Manufactured in France, this minibus is designed to carry up to 15 passengers with 10 seats, offering a daily range of up to 300 km and a quick refueling time of five minutes. The Renault Master City Bus H2-TECH is part of the HYVIA ecosystem, a joint venture between the Renault Group and Plug Power, aimed at promoting hydrogen mobility solutions.