Optare lands largest export midibus order ever12 July 2010

Optare has won a €3 million order for 25 Optare Solo midibuses, with an option for a further three, from Syntus, which runs a network of integrated bus and rail services in the east of The Netherlands.

The buses are all the 8.1 metre model, with seating for 24 and up to 15 standing. Syntus has also opted for the Euro 5 compliant Mercedes-Benz OM904LA engine, rated at 95kW (127bhp), matched to an Allison 2100 five-speed automatic transmission with lockup torque converter in gears three, four and five.

The specification calls for several additional features, including system to handle the Dutch National Tariff System of paperless ticketing, with OV-Chipcard and card readers. A real-time information system will also be fitted during build, and the buses will sport the Optare Eco Drive dashboard, which provides driving style information to improve driver behaviour and hence fuel consumption.

"The Optare Solo midibuses are a perfect match for our high quality requirements, especially since Syntus wants to present a public transport offering that is customised to exactly meet the demands of the modern passenger," says Frank de Leeuw, managing director of Syntus.

Says Glenn Saint, Optare commercial director: "The Syntus order represents our largest ever export order as Optare plc, and is particularly significant since it involves the supply of buses into one of the most sophisticated public transport markets in the world.

"Though now in its second decade, the Optare Solo remains at the forefront of bus design when compared to the products of many other European makers, offering outstanding passenger accessibility and low operating costs."

Author
Brian Tinham

Related Companies
Optare plc

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