Minibuses

A minibus is a passenger vehicle designed to transport more passengers than a typical automobile while remaining smaller than a full-size bus. Typical seating capacity ranges from about 8 to 16 passengers, with variations depending on country and configuration. Minibuses are built on purpose-made frames or adapted from light commercial vans and can be configured with different entry doors, seating layouts, and luggage capacity.

Common uses include scheduled local or regional services, school transport, airport or hotel shuttles, charter or tour operations, and private hire for groups. They are valued for being more maneuverable and economical than full-size coaches, while offering more seating and cargo space than standard vans.

In terms of regulation, minibuses are subject to vehicle and operator rules that vary by country. Many jurisdictions require commercial licensing for the driver, vehicle registration as a passenger vehicle, and adherence to safety standards such as seat belts, construction standards, and sometimes accessibility requirements. Some minibuses are designed to be wheelchair accessible and may be equipped with ramps or lifts.

Market trends include the use of lighter, more fuel-efficient designs, diesel, petrol, or alternative-fuel powertrains, and increasingly electric minibuses. In urban areas, minibuses serve as flexible transport options that fill gaps between private cars and larger buses, while in rural settings they can provide regular service on limited routes.