Comprehensive guide to all minibus categories, from compact 8-seaters to large commercial vehicles. Understanding specifications, applications, and choosing the right type for your needs.
Understanding how minibuses are categorized by size, capacity, and application
8-9 Passengers
Perfect balance of capacity and maneuverability for small groups and family use. No special license required.
Learn More10-16 Passengers
Most versatile category, ideal for commercial operations and medium-sized groups.
Learn More17-25 Passengers
Professional-grade vehicles for high-capacity group transport and commercial operations.
Learn MoreAll Sizes Available
The future of passenger transport with zero emissions and advanced technology.
Learn MoreCompare all minibus categories at a glance
| Category | Passengers | License | Length | Typical Use | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Compact | 8-9 | Category B | 5.0-6.0m | Family, Executive | €35-55K |
| Standard | 10-16 | D1 | 6.0-7.5m | Tours, Shuttles | €40-70K |
| Large | 17-25 | D | 7.5-9.0m | Groups, Events | €55-85K |
| Extra Large | 26-35 | D | 9.0-12m | Public Transport | €70-120K |
Perfect balance of capacity and maneuverability for small groups and family use
Passenger Capacity: 8-9 (including driver)
Vehicle Length: 4.9 - 6.0 meters
Gross Weight: 2.8 - 3.5 tonnes
License Required: Category B (Standard)
Fuel Economy: 8-12 L/100km
Price Range: €35,000 - €55,000
• Standard License - No special requirements
• Easy Handling - Car-like driving experience
• Parking Friendly - Fits standard spaces
• Lower Costs - Similar to car insurance/tax
• Fuel Efficiency - Better than larger minibuses
• Urban Navigation - Easy city driving
• Large Family Transport
• Executive Shuttle Services
• Hotel Guest Transportation
• Medical Transport
• Airport Transfers
• Small Group Tours
Premium Compact Minibus
Premium choice with exceptional comfort and luxury features
German Engineering
Excellent build quality and versatility for families
Best Value Option
Best value proposition with good features
Most versatile category, ideal for commercial operations and medium-sized groups
Eligibility: Min age 21, Category B for 2+ years
Process: Medical exam, theory test, practical test
Costs: €800-1,200 total (training + tests)
Market Share: 60% of commercial minibus market
Revenue: €0.50-1.20 per passenger-kilometer
Resale Value: 65-70% after 3 years
Tourism: Small group tours, airport shuttles
Corporate: Employee shuttles, events
Education: School trips, university transport
Professional-grade vehicles for high-capacity group transport
Access: Limited city center access
License: Category D + CPC required
Classification: Commercial vehicle registration
Utilization: 85-95% occupancy needed for profit
Cost per passenger-km: €0.35-0.45
Annual revenue potential: €15-25K
Economic lifespan: 12-15 years
Break-even: 85% capacity utilization
Educational: School buses, university transport
Corporate: Employee shuttles, large events
Tourism: Large group tours, cruise transfers
Public: Urban feeder services, community transport
The future of passenger transport with zero emissions and advanced technology
Range: 150-400 km
Charging: 6-10h (AC) / 1-2h (DC)
Operating Cost: €0.05-0.08 per km
Price Premium: +40-60% vs Diesel
Range: 600-800 km
Fuel Economy: 6-9 L/100km
Operating Cost: €0.12-0.15 per km
Price Premium: +15-25% vs Diesel
Electric Range: 50-80 km
Total Range: 500-700 km
Operating Cost: €0.08-0.18 per km*
Price Premium: +25-35% vs Diesel
Use our decision matrix to find the perfect minibus category for your needs
2-8 people → Compact Minibus
9-16 people → Standard Minibus
17+ people → Large Minibus
Category B only → Compact
D1 or willing to get → Standard
Category D + CPC → Large
€35-55K → Compact
€40-70K → Standard
€55K+ → Large
Recommended: Compact Minibus (8-9 seats)
Best Models: Mercedes V-Class, VW Caravelle
Why: No special license needed, manageable size, premium comfort
Recommended: Standard Minibus (12-16 seats)
Best Models: Mercedes Sprinter, Ford Transit
Why: Optimal capacity/efficiency ratio, wide model selection
Recommended: Large Minibus (20-25 seats)
Best Models: Specialized school bus variants
Why: Maximum efficiency, enhanced safety features
Use our comprehensive tools to compare specific models within your chosen category and calculate total costs.