Megabus.com trials first UK Scania Irizar i6 coach 19 August 2014

The UK's first 15-metre overall length Scania Irizar i6 coach is set to enter service later this month when it embarks upon long-term trials on a megabus.com route.

The initial trial will run for six months, during which time the vehicle is to be based at Stagecoach's Rugby depot and will operate on routes across the UK.

Based on a Scania K 410 EB 6x2*4 rear-steer chassis, the vehicle was specified with Scania's 13-litre Euro 6 DC13-115 engine, which uses SCR (selective catalytic reduction) after treatment only – making it another first.

Output is 410bhp at 1,900 rpm and the unit delivers 2,150Nm of torque at 1,000—1,300rpm, and the engine drives through a Scania GR875R eight-speed gearbox with integral retarder plus the Opticruise fully-automated gear selection system.

The vehicle has also been equipped with Scania's C200 OnBoard fleet management system.

This coach is also the first to be equipped with a front wheelchair lift (PLS and Magic Floor) and a full height emergency door with fold-out cassette steps.

The vehicle provides seating for 61 passengers on Irizar PB passenger seats with three-point seatbelts, leather headrests and centre armrests.

Seating capacity is reduced to 59 if the vehicle's NMI Magic seats for wheelchair passengers are in use. Three-pin electrical sockets and USB charging sockets have also been provided at each double seat.

"Scania has long enjoyed a productive and mutually beneficial business relationship with Stagecoach and we are delighted to have been given the opportunity to prove this new vehicle on its megabus.com service," comments Tony Tomsett, bus, coach and engine sales director for Scania (Great Britain).

And Megabus.com managing director Elizabeth Esnouf says: "This is potentially an exciting new vehicle for us and we look forward to the results of this trial."

Author
Brian Tinham

Related Companies
Scania (Great Britain) Ltd

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