NINGBO - A Chinese company on Thursday unveiled the world's quickest charging electric bus, with a battery that takes just 10 seconds to be fully charged.

The bus recharges while stationary or while passengers get on or off, and each charge enables the bus to run for least five kilometers, said Zhou Qinghe, president of Zhuzhou Electric Locomotive, a subsidiary of high-speed train maker CSR.

In addition, the bus consumes 30 to 50 percent less energy than other electric vehicles.

The capacitor can function safely for 12 years even under extreme temperatures, according to the company.

CSR hopes the electric bus will attract foreign customers. Central and east Europe, looking to replacing their old vehicles, was cited as market with potential.

On Thursday orders for 1,200 buses were placed.