Anadolu Isuzu promises new approach in intercity transportation with its Kendo CNG

The Kendo CNG bus, designed and developed by Anadolu Isuzu, has achieved sales of nearly 50 units in Europe, 30 of them for customers in France, since its launch last year. The Kendo CNG has also been confirmed as a finalist in the intercity category for the Sustainable Bus Awards 2022 which will be announced later this year and is now continuing its Euro Tour 2021 across Europe to demonstrate the vehicle to a range of short-distance intercity operators, school bus operators, tourism, and public transport sector representatives.

The vehicle is powered by an 8.9-litre, 320hp CNG engine which is also compatible with biogas use, and delivers 1,356Nm of torque with ZF automatic transmission. The Kendo CNG has 1,520-litre type-3 gas cylinders to provide an extensive range with the cylinders having superior thermal conductivity, greater heat tolerance and shock-proof features. The 13m Kendo has a passenger capacity of 63 with luggage capacity of 7.5 cu m, modern aerodynamic exterior design, covered CNG tanks, wide passenger windows and stylish parking lights, plus LED signal lights and LED daytime running lights. A digital multi-functional cluster provides full control to the driver by showing vehicle-related information to enable the driver to focus on safe driving. Retarder, hill holder, ABS, ASR, EBS, ESC and ESP are standard, and AEBS and LDWS can also be integrated.

“Positive comments and feedback from customers in demo tours are motivating us to go further with sustainable buses,” says Tuğrul Arıkan, general manager, Anadolu Isuzu. 

“Increasing population trends in urban areas are expected to continue in European countries which will lead to more vehicles to be on roads and have longer daily journeys and as a result, more air pollution. Therefore developing environmentally and socially friendly modes of transport is a necessity. 

“Anadolu Isuzu has focused on the development of new technologies and policies for more environmentally friendly buses and Kendo CNG is one of the results. This technologically-innovative bus not only reduces the negative environmental impact of transportation, but also makes journeys attractive and enjoyable. The Kendo CNG perfectly meets increased market demands for sustainable passenger transport in urban and interurban areas.”

In addition to being a finalist in the Sustainable Bus Awards, the Kendo CNG was a winner in the Big See Product Design Awards 2021, which recognises outstanding design across manufacturers in south-east Europe.

https://www.isuzu.com.tr/en/bus/intercity/kendo-13

Right-hand drive models:

Kendo CNG is currently only available as left-hand drive (for continental Europe). Anadolu Isuzu says it may develop a RHD version if there is demand in the UK and Irish markets. Anadolu Isuzu currently offers two RHD models in the UK and Ireland: a 39-seat, 9.5m Visigo midicoach (since 2019) and 35-seat 8.5m Grand Toro midicoach (by the end of 2021). Harris Group represents Anadolu Isuzu in the UK and Ireland.