About HS Code 870220
This category covers public transport vehicles designed to carry 10 or more persons, including the driver, propelled by both a compression-ignition internal combustion piston engine (diesel or semi-diesel) and an electric motor. These hybrid diesel-electric buses and coaches represent a significant step towards more sustainable public transport, combining the efficiency of electric propulsion with the range and reliability of a diesel engine. They are particularly effective in reducing emissions and fuel consumption in urban stop-and-go traffic. Importers are often municipal transport agencies and private operators looking to modernize their fleets, meet environmental targets, and reduce operational costs without fully committing to pure electric infrastructure. Exporters are leading bus manufacturers investing in hybrid technologies, primarily from developed nations.
Products Under This Code
Hybrid city buses, diesel-electric coaches, articulated hybrid buses, school buses with hybrid powertrains, low-emission public transport vehicles, hybrid shuttle buses
Real World Examples
New Flyer Xcelsior CHARGE HFS, Nova Bus LFS Hybrid, Volvo 7900 Hybrid, Mercedes-Benz Citaro Hybrid, BYD K9 (some hybrid variants)
Common Misclassification
Often confused with 870210 (pure diesel buses) or 870230 (if a pure electric bus code existed), requiring careful distinction of the dual propulsion system.
Industry
This code belongs to the Automotive & Vehicles industry.
Trade Overview
Strong adoption in environmentally conscious regions like Western Europe, North America, and parts of Asia, driven by urban emission regulations and green initiatives.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is HS code 870220?
HS code 870220 covers: Vehicles; public transport type (carries 10 or more persons, including driver), with both compression-ignition internal combustion piston engine (diesel or semi-diesel) and electric motor for propulsion, new or used. This category covers public transport vehicles designed to carry 10 or more persons, including the driver, propelled by both a compression-ignition internal combustion piston engine (diesel or semi-diesel) and an electric motor. These hybrid diesel-electric buses and coaches represent a significant step towards more sustainable public transport, combining the efficiency of electric propulsion with the range and reliability of a diesel engine. They are particularly effective in reducing emissions and fuel consumption in urban stop-and-go traffic. Importers are often municipal transport agencies and private operators looking to modernize their fleets, meet environmental targets, and reduce operational costs without fully committing to pure electric infrastructure. Exporters are leading bus manufacturers investing in hybrid technologies, primarily from developed nations.
What products fall under HS code 870220?
Hybrid city buses, diesel-electric coaches, articulated hybrid buses, school buses with hybrid powertrains, low-emission public transport vehicles, hybrid shuttle buses
What are common misclassifications for HS code 870220?
Often confused with 870210 (pure diesel buses) or 870230 (if a pure electric bus code existed), requiring careful distinction of the dual propulsion system.
How is HS code 870220 structured?
HS code 870220 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (87) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (02) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (20) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.