Yutong Launches Second-Generation U11DD Electric Double-Decker, Aligned with TfL Safety Standards

Yutong has unveiled a significantly upgraded version of its U11DD battery-electric double-deck bus, engineered specifically to meet Transport for London’s (TfL) stringent Bus Safety Standard. This development positions Yutong to compete directly in the capital’s regulated bus market.

The revised U11DD builds upon the original platform, first introduced in 2023, and incorporates several key design enhancements. Notably, the vehicle now features full flat floors on both decks, improving accessibility and passenger flow, while the rear saloon areas have been reconfigured through a repackaging initiative to optimize internal layout.

UK-Market Engineering and Assembly

UK distributor Pelican Bus and Coach confirms that the redesigned U11DD is not exclusive to TfL operators. While the model revealed at Busworld was a single-door seed vehicle, all future units will reflect input from UK transit stakeholders. Final vehicle assembly and commissioning will continue to be handled at Pelican’s facilities in the UK, ensuring compliance with domestic regulations and operational expectations.

Driveline and Energy Storage Enhancements

The updated U11DD will be equipped with a 417kWh battery system. According to Ian Downie, Head of Yutong UK, the use of thinner battery modules has allowed for strategic repositioning of packs around the chassis, contributing to better weight distribution without compromising passenger capacity or range. A single-motor drivetrain remains standard, continuing Yutong’s focus on simplicity and reliability for high-frequency urban operations.

Fleet Adoption and Market Penetration

The development follows the growing success of the first-generation U11DD, which has already entered service with multiple UK operators. In 2024, First Bus placed an order for 127 units as part of a broader deal to expand its zero-emission fleet with Yutong vehicles. The enhanced U11DD is expected to further Yutong’s traction in the British market, especially in regulated urban environments.

Broader Electric Line-Up Showcased at Busworld

In addition to the U11DD, Yutong showcased several other electric vehicles at Busworld, reinforcing its capability across multiple operational segments. These included the T14E battery-electric coach—positioned as the LHD equivalent of the UK-spec GTe14—as well as the U12 and U15 battery-electric buses.

The U15, a 15-metre tri-axle model, features a class-leading 663kWh battery and an impressive claimed range of 850km under SORT2 conditions—ideal for interurban or express transit routes with fewer charging opportunities.

Also on display was the IC12E, a 12.7-metre low-height interurban coach designed for mid-range routes. With 465kWh of battery storage, it offers a projected range of 675km (SORT2), targeting rural and semi-urban transport networks.

New Battery and Powertrain Technology Highlighted

Yutong also used the event to outline its latest developments in battery and drivetrain technology, all falling under its new EV Long-life Tech platform. Yutong Europe CEO Jack Li explained that the company’s new battery systems are engineered for a 15-year or 1.5 million km lifespan, with a guaranteed 70% state of health retention at end-of-life—a critical factor for fleet TCO calculations.

The platform also includes a flat-wire motor architecture with a projected service life of 20 years or two million kilometers. This motor uses low-resistance materials and hairpin winding technology to improve efficiency and durability. A compact seven-in-one controller system supports modular integration and streamlined diagnostics, aiming to reduce maintenance overheads and enhance operational reliability.