Yuchai Debuts 65 kW Flywheel Extender in Hong Kong Buses, Cuts Fuel by 50%
China Yuchai rolled out minibuses in Hong Kong equipped with its 65 kW YC-FRS flywheel range extender via Wisdom Motor. It achieves up to 50% fuel savings in congested traffic and offers unlimited range without fixed charging, supporting green transport in the Greater Bay Area.
1. Hong Kong Deployment
China Yuchai International introduced a small batch of commercial minibuses in Hong Kong SAR through Wisdom Motor, marking the first deployment of its YCY24-65 kW Flywheel Range Extender System (YC-FRS) in the region. This launch targets local public transport operators in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.
2. YC-FRS Technology Features
The YC-FRS integrates a flywheel and engine crankshaft in a rigid coaxial design, combining engine and alternator into one unit. Its dual fuel–electric replenishment mode eliminates the need for fixed charging infrastructure, delivers low noise, regenerative braking, and maintains engine operation at optimal efficiency.
3. Market and Sustainability Impact
By offering up to 50% fuel savings in stop-start urban traffic and virtually unlimited range, the system addresses high acquisition costs, range anxiety, and battery degradation challenges faced by pure electric vehicles. The rollout supports the low-carbon transformation of urban transport and could pave the way for broader adoption across Greater Bay Area markets.