KG Mobility (KGM) is set to develop a new 12-meter electric bus as part of its strategy to strengthen its commercial EV lineup and counter the growing presence of Chinese-made electric buses in the domestic market.
Following the launch of its 11-meter electric bus, the company plans to expand its large electric bus portfolio while increasing its market share amid intensifying competition from low-cost Chinese manufacturers.
According to industry sources, KG Mobility's subsidiary KG Commercial Mobility (KGMC) has officially begun development of the 12-meter electric bus. A KGM official said the company aims to complete development by 2028.
The upcoming model is expected to feature high-performance battery systems supplied by LG Energy Solution. By adopting premium batteries, KGMC intends to differentiate its buses from Chinese competitors, particularly in terms of driving range and charging speed, areas often cited as weaknesses of lower-cost Chinese electric buses.
KGMC is also preparing production plans for the new vehicle at its Hamyang plant. Considering customer delivery schedules and government subsidy timelines, mass production is expected to begin after 2028.
Industry observers interpret KGMC's move as a direct response to the rapid expansion of competitively priced Chinese large electric buses in Korea's commercial vehicle market.
Once the 12-meter model is completed, KGMC will offer a broader electric bus lineup consisting of 7-meter and 9-meter mid-sized buses, as well as 11-meter and 12-meter large buses, bringing its total electric bus portfolio to four models.
