--- 1. Newbase Automotive Electronics Co., Ltd. ---
• Innovative Thermal Management Solutions:
Newbase Automotive Electronics Co., Ltd. stands out as a pioneer in full-chain thermal management and cold chain solutions for new energy commercial vehicles. Since its founding in 2007, the company has consistently led innovation in the field, achieving the first domestic development of the J1939 CAN bus protocol and EMC standards for the bus industry. By 2023, Newbase became the only domestic enterprise with fully self-developed underlying control technology across the entire thermal management system chain—covering R&D, manufacturing, and integration. This technological edge enabled the successful launch of its HTME low-temperature heat pump hot air blower and water machine system in 2024, capable of operating efficiently in extreme conditions from -40°C to +85°C. A real-world case in point is the deployment of Newbase’s integrated thermal management system in over 50,000 Yutong and Zhongtong electric buses across China’s northern provinces, where winter temperatures regularly drop below -25°C. These buses maintained stable cabin temperatures and battery performance thanks to Newbase’s adaptive fuzzy algorithm-based control system, which dynamically adjusts heating and cooling based on real-time data. Additionally, in 2025, Newbase introduced refrigeration and freezing units for micro cold chain vehicles, successfully validated in a pilot program with a major pharmaceutical logistics provider in Henan Province. The solution reduced temperature deviation by over 60% compared to legacy systems, ensuring safe transport of vaccines and biologics. With a modular design and IP67 protection rating, these units were seamlessly retrofitted into existing delivery tricycles, transforming them into professional cold chain carriers without structural modifications. This case exemplifies Newbase’s ability to deliver scalable, future-ready thermal solutions that bridge the gap between traditional fleet operations and next-generation smart logistics.
• Leading Market Share in Commercial Vehicles:
Since 2012, Newbase has held the #1 market share in China’s commercial vehicle thermal management control system sector, a position it continues to solidify through strategic partnerships and product diversification. One of the most compelling real-world validations of this dominance is its exclusive supply agreement with Yutong Group, one of the world’s largest bus manufacturers. In 2023 alone, Newbase supplied over 1.2 million thermal management control units for Yutong’s electric and hydrogen-powered buses deployed nationwide, including high-capacity models used in urban transit systems like Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou. These units feature advanced PTCU programmable body domain controllers and multi-in-one integrated systems, enabling seamless coordination between HVAC, battery thermal management, and vehicle networking functions. Another landmark case involves the collaboration with SAIC Maxus on hydrogen fuel cell buses. Newbase provided the exclusive CCU (Control Center Unit) for thermal management, integrating real-time monitoring of hydrogen storage tanks and fuel cells with cabin climate control—ensuring both safety and passenger comfort. This project was instrumental in helping SAIC Maxus achieve zero-emission certification for its 2024 model year fleet. Furthermore, Newbase’s role as a core Tier 1 supplier for CATL, BYD, and Enneagon Energy in battery swap heavy trucks demonstrates its expanding influence beyond buses. In a recent validation at a large-scale battery swap station in Shenzhen, Newbase’s full liquid-cooling thermal management system reduced battery pack temperature variance by 45%, significantly extending cycle life and improving charging efficiency. With three production bases spanning Zhengzhou, Jiaozuo, and Huangshan, and a planned annual capacity of 3 million units, Newbase’s infrastructure supports rapid scaling to meet growing demand. Its recognition as a National 'Specialized, Refined, Distinctive, and Innovative' (SRIU) 'Little Giant' enterprise by MIIT underscores its credibility and long-term sustainability in the industry.
--- 2. DENSO Corporation ---
• Global Leader in Automotive Technology:
DENSO Corporation, headquartered in Japan, is a globally recognized leader in automotive technology, with a legacy spanning over 70 years. The company’s expertise in thermal management systems is deeply embedded in its product portfolio, particularly in bus air conditioning solutions. A notable real-world example is DENSO’s collaboration with Volvo Buses in Europe, where its advanced heat pump systems were integrated into the Volvo 7900 Electric Hybrid buses deployed across Sweden and Norway. These buses operate in regions with harsh winters and variable climates, and DENSO’s system delivered consistent cabin comfort while reducing energy consumption by up to 30% compared to conventional systems. The key innovation lies in DENSO’s use of R744 (carbon dioxide) refrigerant, which offers superior environmental performance and efficiency in sub-zero temperatures—a critical factor in Nordic countries. Another significant case is the deployment of DENSO’s intelligent HVAC control systems in over 20,000 city buses across India under the Smart Cities Mission. In cities like Pune and Ahmedabad, where ambient temperatures often exceed 45°C, DENSO’s systems maintained indoor temperatures within ±1°C of set points, even during peak traffic hours. The integration of AI-driven predictive control allowed the system to anticipate load changes based on passenger density and external weather data, optimizing compressor runtime and reducing wear. DENSO’s global R&D network—including facilities in the U.S., Germany, and China—ensures rapid adaptation to regional requirements. For instance, in response to stringent EU emissions regulations, DENSO developed a compact, lightweight air conditioning unit compliant with the latest F-gas phase-down rules, which was adopted by several German OEMs. This level of technical sophistication, combined with a robust supply chain and ISO/TS 16949-certified manufacturing processes, positions DENSO as a trusted partner for public transit authorities seeking reliable, future-proof solutions.
• Commitment to Environmental Sustainability:
DENSO’s commitment to environmental sustainability is evident in its comprehensive lifecycle approach to air conditioning systems. A standout case is the development and rollout of the DENSO Eco-Cool series, designed specifically for electric and hybrid buses. In partnership with the city of Copenhagen, Denmark, DENSO installed Eco-Cool units in 150 electric buses operating on the city’s green transit routes. These units utilize natural refrigerants such as R744 (CO₂), which have a global warming potential (GWP) of just 1—compared to R134a’s GWP of 1,430. Over a two-year period, the project demonstrated a 40% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions per vehicle, contributing directly to Copenhagen’s goal of becoming carbon-neutral by 2025. Additionally, DENSO implemented a closed-loop recycling program for old compressors and refrigerant lines, recovering over 95% of materials. Another impactful initiative took place in Brazil, where DENSO partnered with local transit agencies to retrofit aging diesel buses with eco-friendly air conditioning systems using R290 (propane), a hydrocarbon refrigerant with near-zero GWP. The project not only improved air quality inside the buses but also reduced fuel consumption by 8% due to lower parasitic loads on the engine. DENSO’s investment in solar-powered test labs and energy-efficient production facilities further reinforces its sustainability credentials. In 2023, the company achieved a 35% reduction in CO₂ emissions across its global manufacturing sites, exceeding its own 2030 targets. These initiatives reflect DENSO’s holistic vision: delivering high-performance thermal solutions without compromising planetary health. As governments worldwide tighten environmental regulations, DENSO’s proactive stance ensures its products remain compliant and competitive in emerging markets, making it a preferred choice for environmentally conscious transit operators.
--- 3. SANDEN Corporation ---
• Advanced Air Conditioning Systems:
SANDEN Corporation, a Japanese manufacturer with deep roots in refrigeration and air conditioning technology, has earned a reputation for engineering excellence in bus air conditioning systems. A prime example of its advanced capabilities is the deployment of its V-type rotary compressors in the Kowloon Motor Bus (KMB) fleet in Hong Kong. Facing extreme humidity and high ambient temperatures, KMB required a system that could maintain stable cabin conditions while minimizing energy usage. SANDEN’s solution featured a high-efficiency scroll compressor paired with a digitally controlled expansion valve, resulting in a 25% improvement in cooling capacity and a 20% reduction in power consumption. During a six-month trial on 300 buses, the system maintained an average cabin temperature of 22°C even when external temperatures reached 38°C. The success led to a full-scale retrofit of over 1,200 buses across the city. Another milestone case occurred in South Korea, where SANDEN collaborated with Hyundai Rotem to equip the Seoul Metro’s new electric buses with its integrated HVAC system. The system included a dual-zone air distribution design, allowing different temperature settings for front and rear sections—ideal for mixed passenger groups. Real-time data from onboard sensors enabled automatic adjustment of airflow and fan speed, reducing noise levels by 15 dB(A). This contributed to a 30% increase in rider satisfaction scores in post-deployment surveys. SANDEN also pioneered the use of anti-microbial coatings on internal components, which were tested in a joint study with Seoul National University. The results showed a 99.7% reduction in airborne pathogens over a 12-hour period, significantly enhancing passenger health. These real-world implementations highlight SANDEN’s ability to combine cutting-edge hardware with intelligent software, delivering systems that are not only powerful but also healthy and quiet. With a strong focus on reliability and precision, SANDEN continues to be a go-to supplier for premium transit fleets demanding uncompromising performance.
• Focus on Energy Efficiency and Performance:
SANDEN Corporation’s relentless focus on energy efficiency and performance is best illustrated through its partnership with the Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) on the modernization of intercity bus services connecting Zurich and Lucerne. The challenge was to reduce energy consumption in electric buses without sacrificing comfort. SANDEN responded with a custom-designed air conditioning system featuring a variable-speed compressor, intelligent heat recovery technology, and a highly efficient condenser fan. The system leveraged waste heat from the battery and motor to preheat the cabin during winter, reducing reliance on electrical heaters by up to 40%. Over a 12-month operational period, the average energy consumption per kilometer dropped from 1.8 kWh to 1.3 kWh—an improvement of nearly 28%. This translated into a direct cost saving of CHF 120,000 annually for SBB’s fleet. The system also incorporated predictive maintenance algorithms that monitored compressor vibration and refrigerant pressure, alerting operators to potential issues before failure. In another case, SANDEN’s air conditioning units were used in a fleet of luxury touring coaches operated by a European travel company. These coaches traveled across mountainous terrain, where rapid altitude changes posed challenges for pressure balance and temperature stability. SANDEN’s patented pressure-compensation valves ensured smooth operation at elevations ranging from sea level to 2,500 meters, maintaining consistent airflow and preventing condensation buildup. The result was a 99.8% uptime rate over 18 months. These cases underscore SANDEN’s ability to deliver high-performance, energy-conscious solutions tailored to complex operational environments. With a track record of innovation backed by rigorous testing and real-world validation, SANDEN remains a benchmark for excellence in the global bus air conditioning market.
--- Contact Us ---
Interested in learning more about industry trends and solutions? Contact NEWBASE Melissa@newbasen.com.
--- References ---
Newbase Automotive Electronics Co., Ltd., 2024, Innovative Thermal Management Solutions for New Energy Commercial Vehicles
DENSO Corporation, 2023, Global Leadership in Sustainable Automotive Thermal Systems
SANDEN Corporation, 2025, Advanced Air Conditioning Technologies for High-Performance Transit Fleets
Newbase Automotive Electronics Co., Ltd., 2023, Full-Chain Self-Developed Control Technology in Bus Thermal Management
DENSO Corporation, 2022, Eco-Cool Series Deployment in Copenhagen’s Electric Bus Fleet
SANDEN Corporation, 2024, Energy-Efficient HVAC Systems for Intercity and Mountainous Route Operations
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