The fresh arrivals represent a significant investment to the Westbus fleet and mark a welcome return to the Volvo brand, reflecting the company’s commitment to providing superior service and comfort to its passengers. Featuring bespoke interiors, the new models incorporate Westbus’ distinctive livery and branding while offering functionality and refinement tailored to modern coach travel.
Tim Miles, General Manager of Westbus, says: “We have returned to Volvo Buses because of the new B8R offering – I see it as great value for a premium specification. The team at Volvo have also been incredible throughout the process, working closely with us to design the corporate, bespoke interior – we are very pleased with the result!
“We have also received great support from Volvo Truck and Bus Centre South & East’s London Heathrow depot and have the added peace of mind in knowing we have access to the extensive Volvo Truck & Bus dealer network.”
Boasting 53 reclining seats trimmed in a customised moquette upholstery, complemented by faux leather side flairs and headrests, each coach provides seat back tables, magazine nets, footrests, and individual USB charging ports for passenger convenience. Additionally, the vehicles feature full PSVAR specification with a side mounted wheelchair lift and a centrally located sunken freshwater toilet.
Miles continues: “We are already seeing really positive feedback from both customers and drivers in response to these impressive new vehicles. We are confident that all seven will prove to be valuable additions to the fleet.”
The B8R features Volvo’s D8K engine for enhanced fuel-efficiency, producing up to 350 hp and a peak torque of 1,585 Nm. This is driven through a 12-speed I-Shift automated transmission, combining smooth and precise gearshifts with high average speeds and outstanding driveability.
Founded in 1986, Westbus specialises in incoming tourist work, private and corporate travel and is one of London’s largest and longest established coach operators. It maintains a modern and varied fleet comprised of 35 vehicles ranging from mini coaches and single deck executive coaches to high-capacity double deckers. Westbus is part of ComfortDelGro, the international multi-modal transport organisation operating in 13 countries.