Volvo Buses

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Orders, a Ministerial visit and a live national BBC broadcast – Day 1 at Euro Bus Expo for Volvo Bus

Volvo Bus marked a successful first day at the Euro Bus Expo show at the NEC in Birmingham with the announcement of a highly significant order of 71 new B9R coaches for the Ministry of Defence.
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The 71 new B9R high specification coaches are to be supplied during a phased delivery period for completion by mid 2013. Built in partnership with bodybuilder Plaxton, the new vehicles are set to replace existing MoD vehicles approaching the end of their working life. Delivering economical fuel consumption thanks to Volvo’s proven 9-litre engine, the 12.8 metre B9R also features 55 reclining seats and air conditioning.

“We are delighted to open the 2012 Euro Bus Expo show with the announcement of such a significant and positive order story for the company,” explained Volvo Coach Director, Nick Page. “The B9R is one of our most popular coaches and we’re absolutely delighted to secure the contract alongside our partners at Plaxton.”

Further positive Euro Bus Expo news for Volvo Bus came courtesy of Under Secretary of State for Transport, Norman Baker’s announcement of £20 million of new investment for the next round of Green Bus Funding. 

“Norman Baker visited our stand following his earlier announcement about further Green Bus Funding and it’s tremendous news for the industry,” explained Steve Dewhurst, Volvo Bus, Managing Director. “We are exhibiting our new environmentally friendly hybrid single deck complete Volvo bus product, the 7900H, for the first time in the UK and Mr Baker was extremely interested when he took the time to view the vehicle.

“The announcement on Green Bus Funding will provide operators with the financial support and reassurance they need to continue investing in environmentally friendly transport technology,” continued Steve Dewhurst. “With the launch of our new 7900H complementing the existing B5LH hybrid double deck option, Volvo Bus is well positioned to support the industry operators with this initiative.”

Volvo Bus also made an appearance on national television earlier in the day. BBC Breakfast TV Business Reporter, Steph McGovern visited the Euro Bus Expo show taking the opportunity to broadcast live inside Volvo’s new hybrid 7900H bus. While interviewing First Group, Managing Director, Giles Fearnley and Confederation of Passenger Transport CEO, Simon Posner, Steph highlighted a number of key features of the new Volvo hybrid vehicle.

“It has been a busy and successful first day for Volvo Bus at Euro Bus Expo,” continued Steve Dewhurst. “Many of our customers have visited us and we look forward to welcoming many more operators during the next two days.”

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