Previous experience with Volvo – notably fuel consumption rates, reliability and low noise levels – promoted the latest order, says the operator.
With a capacity for 79 passengers, each bus features the UNVI Urbis 25 half canopied upper deck for sightseeing – to which several upgrades have been made since Bath Bus acquired similar vehicles last year.
“Our experience of Volvo-UNVI has led to our selection of this tried and tested combination once again,” says Martin Curtis, managing director.
“Our team is particularly impressed with the adaptations made to the design and layout of the new buses, including increased cab space, wider entrance doors and changes to the wing mirrors and fuel filler.
“In particular, the twin stair/two door access enables much faster loading and unloading of passengers, which is especially important for us in restricted bus waiting areas within the city.”
Meanwhile, Optare’s latest order has gone to the opposite side of the world, to Hamilton Island in Australia.
The island resort has taken delivery of an Optare Solo to transport holidaymakers around the car-free island – part of a fleet replacement programme.
The 7.5m slim Solo is fully air conditioned and works 18-hour days covering 200km.
The 50-seater Solo offers low floor access and a dedicated wheelchair or buggy space. The vehicle can navigate tight roads on the island not suited to other low floor midi buses, and passenger boarding and alighting time is decreased.