At 13.2m long (tri-axle, superhigh single deck), the new coach will come equipped with 53 passenger seats. Half iLeather trim will give a touch of luxury, with quilted side wings adding to the effect. Each seat will be equipped with lap belts and USB connectivity.
Golden Boy has opted to specify PSVAR preparation only on this occasion, having purchased two fully compliant i6S earlier this year. With the future proofing in place, residual value will be protected, according to Irizar.
The coach will be propelled by DAF’s MX-11 443bhp diesel coupled to ZF’s Ecolife 6 speed automatic gearbox.
Paul Murdoch, director of Golden Boy Coaches, said: “We chose Irizar again this season as we feel it represents value for money with a good residual return, we’ll also benefit from the anticipated efficiency of the new model, as any saving on fuel is always welcome”.
The new i6S Efficient, based on the Integral platform, sees a reduction of 900kg, achieved mainly through a transition to using high strength steel and modern composites. An optimised layout rebalances the vehicle and also helps achieve greater internal space.
The design has reduced the vehicle’s aerodynamic coefficient by 30% and, combined with the weight saving and other adjustments, is said to result in a 13% reduction in fuel consumption.
These benefits come after those made in 2018, where improvements in the DAF/ZF driveline, overall reduction in weight and the power on demand electrification of key componentry resulted in up to 6% improvement in fuel consumption.
The Golden Boy i6S Efficient is scheduled for delivery in the autumn of 2022