The new TfL-specified Volvo B9TL double deck bus has been launched, marking the beginning of a new partnership agreement with Egyptian based bodybuilder, MCV Group.
"This is very much a long-term commitment," explains Volvo bus sales director, Phil Owen. "We don't expect large-scale sales to happen overnight, but the new vehicle will be competitively priced and we're looking at gradually building our presence over time, as the London operators review their fleet options."
Volvo's low floor 10.3m B9TL is specified with a rigid low beam front axle. The bus is powered by a rear mounted Volvo D9B engine, which is rated at 260bhp or 310bhp dependent upon operator requirements.
Available to meet Euro 5 incentive, the vehicle also has EEV available as an option. Fitted with the ZF Ecolife gearbox as standard the new bus also has the Voith D864.5 gearbox as an option.
The new vehicle is also the first diesel double deck bus with a passenger weight of 68kg to achieve a 28° tilt during testing.
Key to the development of the new vehicle was former TfL employee Mike Winter, now UK commercial director at MCV UK. "As part of the development process we have made sure to comply with EC Regulation 107, which is more stringent, but strategically places us well in the long-term," he explains.