Last year, ElectricBrands unveiled the eBussy, an electric mini-mover that transforms into ten different vehicles. Now, the German company is ready to unveil its prototype. The ultra-modular tiny transporter, today called the Xbus, promises to become one of the most versatile, affordable electric vehicles that exist, transforming between van, tipper, mini-camper, pickup, and so much more.
A press announcement last week confirmed an official name change from eBussy to Xbus. The prototype will make its debut on July 7, at which ElectricBrands will also launch a configurator, ordering system, and crowd investment campaign.
The company plans to mate its Lego-inspired modular body components to two different chassis:
- An off-road chassis with a higher all-terrain suspension setup
- A lower, more road-oriented standard chassis.
Both chassis options will comprise an all-wheel-drive electric powertrain with four in-hub motors that offer up to 1,000 Nm (738 lb-ft) of torque. The battery options are as modular as its body, available in various sizes between 10 and 30 kWh for projected ranges from 124 to 373 miles (200 to 600 km). As a bonus, Xbus drivers will be able to swap out battery packs using the quick-access battery drawers.
Xbus range figures are enhanced by integrated solar charging and lightweight materials. The Xbus is so light that it falls in the L7e-B2 quadricycle homologation class. Due to its classification, the Xbus will be legally limited to driving only three people. Oddly, despite this, the bus will be available in both two- and four-seat configurations.
However, ElectricBrands plans to make an “XL” model for those that prefer their vans and trucks more spacious and want to carry more passengers.
Among the ten different Xbus configurations planned, prices will range from roughly US$18,850 (€15,800) for the two-seat flatbed to US$34,350 (€28,800) for the off-road camper. According to initial estimates, if buyers choose to convert their single Xbus between its many configurations, individual add-on modules will cost between US$950 and $13,125 (€800 and €11,000).
ElectricBrands is on track towards a late-2021 production start. It’s currently offering European reservations, with a €1,000 (US$1,195) early-bird discount that’s good until tomorrow. The company’s website puts total reservations at 9,083 as of publishing. ElectricBrands will expand availability outside of Europe in mid-2022. According to their website, US reservations are expected to open in September this year.
