Mitsubishi Fuso may take over electric bus models from Taiwanese manufacturer

Within a month, Mitsubishi Fuso is mentioned for the second time regarding a major collaboration: this time, the new project involves the sale of electric buses, with Taiwanese company Foxconn as the Japanese firm’s partner. The news was first reported by Nikkei Asia, citing a source close to the Taiwanese firm, noting that while the agreement has not yet been signed, it is very close to completion. According to reports, the collaboration would see the Japanese commercial vehicle manufacturer add Foxconn’s two models — the compact Model U minibus and the full-sized, sleekly designed Model T urban solo electric bus — to its lineup.

Mitsubishi Fuso’s urban and suburban bus offerings are in need of modernization: the Aero Star series, last updated in 2014, originally debuted in 1996 and is currently available only with diesel engines, limiting its market potential despite offering various body styles. The range notably lacks fully electric models, and it seems the Japanese company is opting for a quicker solution rather than developing its own. Mitsubishi Fuso, part of Daimler Truck, announced a merger with fellow Japanese company Hino Motors in early June, which, through its long-standing partner Isuzu, already offers an electric bus model. However, it appears this is not being shared with Mitsubishi Fuso. Meanwhile, taking advantage of the delay by traditional Japanese brands, several Chinese bus manufacturers, such as BYD and EV Motors, have entered the Japanese market with their electric buses, and last year, South Korea’s Hyundai followed them. In this context, Mitsubishi Fuso has found a foreign partner in Foxconn from Taiwan.

The Foxtron Model U minibus features a design popular in the Far East

The collaboration could be beneficial for both parties, allowing Mitsubishi Fuso to quickly and easily expand its product range with electric bus models, while Foxconn could establish a foothold in the otherwise difficult-to-enter Japanese market — a move they announced plans for in April. Vehicle assembly would likely occur locally at the Mitsubishi Fuso plant under the well-known Japanese brand name, and local reports suggest the parties are considering a joint venture for bus production. Details are not yet available on any design or technical modifications expected before the planned Japanese market launch in 2027.

The Foxtron Model T is striking on the road with its minimalist lines

Founded in 1974, Foxconn (officially Hon Hai Technology Group) is one of the world’s largest contract manufacturers of electronic products, responsible for producing devices like the iPhone, iPad, BlackBerry, as well as Nintendo and PlayStation consoles. Since 2020, the company has been producing electric vehicles under the Foxtron brand. The nearly 7-meter-long Model U minibus debuted last October alongside the Model D van. The uniquely designed Model T solo electric bus was introduced in Taiwan in 2021, with the first series hitting local roads in 2022. It features a 400 kWh battery pack, a 400-kilometer range, and a 25% climbing capability, with a right-hand drive version available for the Indonesian market. However, the charging system would likely need conversion to the CHAdeMO standard for Japan. Interestingly, in May, Foxconn signed a cooperation agreement with Mitsubishi’s passenger car division (now under different ownership from the commercial vehicle division) for the joint production and marketing of the Foxtron Model B crossover.

Photos: Foxconn