MAN Truck & Bus has made European transportation history by introducing the continent’s first fully electric coach. The Lion’s Coach E marks a significant step forward in sustainable long-distance travel. Building on the success of the Lion’s City E electric buses—more than 2,500 of which have been sold since 2019—MAN is now moving into the coach segment with the same electric expertise.
The new coach uses reliable electric drive systems from MAN’s eTruck and features advanced NMC battery packs, which are produced at the company’s plant in Nuremberg, Germany. The Lion’s Coach E will offer a range between 356 and 534 kWh, enabling travel distances of up to 650 kilometers on a single charge.
The coach also has a modern aerodynamic design that reduces wind resistance. Its drag coefficient (Cd) is just 0.31—similar to compact SUVs—making it more efficient on the road. With seating for up to 61 passengers and no compromise in luggage capacity compared to diesel models, the electric coach offers the same comfort and practicality as conventional options.
The Lion’s Coach E will debut at the “Busworld Europe” trade fair in Brussels in October 2025. Series production is scheduled to begin in 2026.
“Our eCoach marks the beginning of a new era of emission-free and low-noise travel that many customers have been waiting for,” said Barbaros Oktay, Head of Bus at MAN Truck & Bus. “We are proud to lead the way with such a dynamic and innovative vehicle.”
A Step Forward in Zero-Emission Mobility
The launch of the Lion’s Coach E is part of MAN’s broader strategy to become a leader in zero-emission transport. The company has already made major progress with its Lion’s City E buses for city and regional travel. In the first quarter of 2025 alone, electric buses accounted for more than 50% of MAN’s city bus sales in Europe, totaling 283 units.
Now, MAN is turning its attention to coaches. The electric coach meets both government climate goals and growing demand from customers for greener travel options.
Production of the Lion’s Coach E will take place at MAN’s plant in Ankara, Turkey. The facility has recently been adapted to support electric vehicle manufacturing.
Before full production begins, MAN will deliver early versions of the electric coach to selected customers in key European markets during 2025. These test fleets will help prepare for wider adoption.
Flexible Usage: From Daily Shuttles to City Tours
Initially, the Lion’s Coach E will be suited for short- and medium-distance routes. With a range of up to 650 kilometers, the vehicle is ideal for shuttle services, employee transport, and urban sightseeing trips.
Heinz Kiess, Head of Product Marketing Bus at MAN, sees strong potential in coach tourism. “The eCoach is a real opportunity to attract travelers who care about sustainability. It opens the door to a new group of environmentally conscious customers.”
The coach offers fast charging capabilities using the Combined Charging System (CCS) at up to 375 kW. This allows recharging to align with drivers’ legally required rest breaks. MAN is also developing a Megawatt Charging System (MCS) with power up to 750 kW, which could enable longer intercity or cross-border trips in the future.
Reliable Foundation with a Modern Twist
The Lion’s Coach E is built on the well-established Lion’s Coach platform, first launched in 2017. The first electric version will be a 13.9-meter, three-axle model with a maximum gross weight of 27.3 tons. Despite the electric drivetrain, it offers generous luggage space—ranging from 11 to 13 cubic meters.
Over time, MAN plans to expand its range of electric coach models, with new variants expected by the end of the decade.
The vehicle’s design also breaks new ground. MAN’s “Smart Flow Design” optimizes aerodynamics and contributes to the coach’s impressive drag coefficient. The reduced drag not only boosts efficiency but also extends driving range.
Inside, the coach features a digital cockpit with the intuitive MAN SmartSelect control system. This layout is designed for driver comfort and ease of use. Advanced assistance systems also improve safety and handling on long journeys.
Conclusion
With the launch of the Lion’s Coach E, MAN Truck & Bus is setting a new benchmark for clean, quiet, and comfortable travel across Europe. The electric coach combines cutting-edge technology with proven reliability, providing a forward-looking solution for public transport operators and passengers alike.
As the industry moves toward zero emissions, MAN’s electric coach stands as a strong example of what the future of travel could—and should—look like.
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