Kijsetthi Mobility Launches KIM LONG ICE and EV Buses in Thailand with After-Sales Network

Kijsetthi Mobility (Thailand) has officially introduced KIM LONG MOTOR buses and minibuses from Vietnam to Thailand’s commercial vehicle market, aiming to support operators with comprehensive vehicle solutions and after-sales services to enhance investment confidence.

Kijsetthi Mobility Positions as One-Stop Commercial Mobility Provider

Kijsetthi Mobility is establishing itself as a single-source provider offering consultation, customisation, distribution, spare parts, technician training, maintenance and after-sales service for KIM LONG vehicles in Thailand. The company targets passenger transport, tourism, corporate shuttle, and urban transit operators who prioritise performance, safety, operating value and long-term support.

Following a supply agreement signed in December 2025 and an official distributor appointment in April 2026, Kijsetthi Mobility is focused on adapting vehicles to local operational needs and expanding dealer and service networks in line with customer growth.

Range of Internal Combustion and Electric Buses Included

The launch features four KIM LONG models, including 12-metre 99N43, 99N44, 99N42 WC passenger buses plus the 19N21 minibus. The 99 series utilises a Full Monocoque body structure for weight reduction and improved rigidity, paired with YUCHAI K11 engines compliant with Euro 5 emissions standards. Fuel efficiency is reported at approximately 19–21 litres per 100 kilometres.

Kijsetthi Mobility also plans to offer KIM LONG pure electric buses employing BYD battery technology to support Thailand’s gradual shift toward sustainable transport solutions.

KIM LONG’s Manufacturing and Development Capabilities Provide Support

KIM LONG MOTOR’s vertical integration encompasses manufacturing and assembly, component development, and R&D. The company can design and configure vehicles to meet specific market requirements, developing key parts such as chassis, engines, batteries, and electrical systems. This integrated production approach aims to optimise supply chains, quality control, and costs.

The partnership combines KIM LONG’s industrial capabilities with Kijsetthi Mobility’s knowledge of the Thai market and after-sales infrastructure, addressing operators’ total cost of ownership concerns.

After-Sales Service and Spare-Parts Network Critical for Market Expansion

Kijsetthi Mobility emphasises after-sales support, establishing a comprehensive spare-parts supply system alongside a specialist technical team. The company will provide training and maintenance services throughout vehicle lifecycles to ensure reliability and operational continuity for customers.

Progressive expansion of service points and dealerships will be driven by customer demand to maintain service quality and vehicle availability.

Phased Strategy Includes Local Manufacturing Ambitions

The partnership includes a two-phase roadmap. Initially, efforts will focus on market development, network building, and after-sales systems. Operator feedback will inform product adaptions for Thailand.

The second phase envisions transitioning from importing Completely Built Units (CBUs) to local assembly of Completely Knocked Down (CKD) units, targeting at least 50% local content. From 2027 to 2030, Thailand may become a strategic manufacturing and export hub for KIM LONG MOTOR, supporting local supply chains, industry development, and employment.

Implications for Thailand’s Commercial Vehicle Sector

The introduction of KIM LONG’s ICE and electric buses, combined with Kijsetthi Mobility’s comprehensive support infrastructure, provides operators with diversified vehicle options aligned with operational and investment needs. This stability and lifecycle support can impact fleet management, maintenance planning, and total cost of ownership.

The planned localisation of manufacturing may enhance supply chain resilience and reduce costs, which is relevant for operators facing fluctuating import tariffs and component availability.

Next Steps Include EV Fleet Solutions Development and Market Growth

Kijsetthi Mobility and EVOLT Technology have signed a memorandum of understanding to develop an end-to-end electric vehicle fleet solution, indicating a focus on sustainable mobility. Monitoring how electric bus deployment scales and the progression from imported units to local assembly will be key in assessing the partnership’s impact on Thailand’s transport sector.