Press release

New Volvo B8RLE MCV eVoRas strengthen Coach Services’ Thetford network

2026-04-08

Coach Services has taken delivery of its first two 10.8m Volvo B8RLE MCV eVoRa buses, supporting more frequent services across Thetford – in line with local improvement plans.

The new buses build on a proven relationship, joining a 40-vehicle fleet where Volvo is the clear majority supplier. As part of Norfolk County Council’s Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP), the investment demonstrates how Volvo Buses works collaboratively with local authorities and operators to deliver shared transport goals.

Rob Crawford, Director of Coach Services, says: “Over the last five years, every single-deck bus we’ve purchased has been a Volvo B8RLE MCV eVoRa, largely because of its reliability. This time we’ve opted for a shorter length as it gives us better manoeuvrability – something our drivers appreciate on the narrow routes they operate on.”

Coach Services has previously centred its standardisation around the 12m specification, and the move to add the 10.8m models builds on that approach in a shorter format. The new additions are expected to travel more than 230,000km annually, carrying passengers on the daily T1, T2, and T3 Thetford Rangers services, which run through the town and its surrounding forest corridor. Their white, yellow and grey livery is complemented by the fleet’s stag logo, reflecting the surrounding forest landscape.

As part of Norfolk County Council’s Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP), the investment demonstrates how Volvo Buses works collaboratively with local authorities and operators to deliver shared transport goals.

“We’re also around the corner from Volvo Truck and Bus Centre Thetford, with three more locations within 30 miles, which is incredibly convenient for parts supply or getting technical assistance when needed. That level of support is a big part of why the partnership has remained so strong – it makes it far easier to provide a consistent, dependable service for our passengers,” adds Crawford.

Each of the new Volvo B8RLE MCV eVoRas features 35 high-backed seats, with additional standing room allowing for a total capacity of 84. They are PSVAR-compliant and include next stop audio-visual displays to provide clear, accessible passenger information.

Power comes from Volvo’s proven 8-litre D8K engine, delivering up to 320 hp and a peak torque of 1,200 Nm. It works in combination with the ZF automatic transmission, designed to enhance driver comfort, improve safety and optimise energy efficiency.

The new additions are expected to travel more than 230,000km annually, carrying passengers on the daily T1, T2, and T3 Thetford Rangers services, which run through the town and its surrounding forest corridor.

Coach Services is a family-run business, operating public bus routes across Norfolk and Suffolk, alongside private hire services for travel across the UK from its depot in Thetford.

Warwick
8 April 2026

For more press information, please contact: Charlotte Baker or Natalie Ganshert, Garnett Keeler PR, on phone: +44 (0)20 8647 4467, or email charlotte.baker@garnettkeeler.com or natalie.ganshert@garnettkeeler.com.

Volvo Buses is one of the world’s leading providers of sustainable people transport solutions. The offer includes premium city- and intercity buses, coaches, and bus chassis as well as services for increased productivity, uptime and safety. Volvo Buses has sales in 85 countries and a global service network with more than 1,500 dealerships and workshops. Volvo Buses is part of Volvo Group, one of the world’s leading manufacturers of trucks, buses and construction equipment as well as drive systems for marine and industrial applications. Volvo Group also provides complete financing solutions. For more information visit http://www.volvobuses.com