{
  "id": 7702227,
  "title": "Vietnamese made Kim Long buses debut in Thailand",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/16/vietnamese-made-kim-long-buses-debut-in-thailand",
  "topic": "business",
  "section": "Business",
  "published": "2026-09-16T04:03:10.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Vietnam Investment Review",
    "slug": "vietnam-investment-review",
    "url": "https://vir.com.vn/vietnamese-made-kim-long-buses-debut-in-thailand-160909.html"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "On September 15, Vietnamese bus manufacturer Kim Long Motor unveiled its first batch of commercial vehicles in Thailand, collaborating with local distributor KIJSETTHI Mobility. This marks a significant step in the company's plan to establish Thailand as a strategic manufacturing and export hub for ASEAN.\n\nKIJSETTHI Mobility, Kim Long Motor's authorized distributor in Thailand since April, has developed a comprehensive network of showrooms, service stations, and spare parts warehouses to ensure 24/7 technical support for customers. The joint venture aims to deliver high-quality, operationally optimized transport solutions tailored for Thailand's market.\n\nIn Phase 1 of their partnership, Kim Long Motor will introduce commercial vehicles, including next-generation EURO 5-compliant internal combustion engine models and fully electric vehicles. The company has already achieved a 90% localisation rate for diesel buses and a 60% rate for electric vehicles, with a goal of reaching 90% by late 2026. The 12-meter KIMLONG99 series can accommodate 42-44 passengers, while the 7.9-meter KIMLONG19-N21 features a 21-seat configuration for urban transit and short-haul routes.\n\nThe debut event, held on the 50th anniversary of Vietnam-Thailand diplomatic relations, highlights the deepening cooperation between the two nations. Kim Long Motor's first batch of electric buses was delivered to Thai company INNOPOWER, marking the start of a contract for 113 vehicles. The launch showcases Kim Long Motor's commitment to green transition and fuel-efficient engines, addressing geopolitical risks in the global energy market.",
  "summary": "Kim Long Motor has launched its bus models in Bangkok marking the Vietnamese brand s official entry into Thailand s commercial vehicle market",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}