Volvo Buses
UNITED KINGDOM & IRELAND
The unique specification of the new vehicle played an important role in Hollinshead’s decision to specify Volvo. “The company had a requirement for a 2 axle executive coach,” explained Hollinshead’s Stephen Haydon, “We are an entirely Volvo fleet and have progressed from B10 to B12 – so the B13R was the next logical step”.
“Having had many years experience operating Volvos we know that they are good reliable vehicles, so for us to change to another product would have been a big decision and thankfully, one which wasn’t necessary,” continued Stephen Haydon.
“We have used other bodybuilders in the past, but we were very impressed with the Volvo 9700, so we did plenty of research, including speaking to other operators and they all highly recommended the product”.
Hollinshead’s new 49 seater vehicle, liveried in the company’s distinctive red and cream, is specified with Volvo’s Euro 5 compliant, fuel efficient, 13 litre diesel engine, rated at 460hp, coupled to the Volvo I-Shift gearbox.
The new coach also features an on board toilet, entertainment facilities including a radio, CD & DVD player and TV monitors. It is also equipped with climate control, a drinks area, CCTV, and top of the range seating with leather headrests and trim.
Already operating across Hollinshead’s own tour programme, the new Volvo B13R coach will also be used for private hire activity and an increasing number of corporate customers.
With an exclusively Volvo fleet of nine vehicles it is not only the products which continue to impress Stephen Haydon. “We have known and dealt with Volvo Bus Coach Sales Manager, James Hyde for many years and we really like him, but we have also got to know Volvo Bus Regional Sales Manager, Duncan Crosby during this deal and his input in specking the vehicle was invaluable”.
“Duncan’s enthusiasm and attention to detail were amazing and I wouldn’t hesitate in dealing with him again. If you cut him in half it would say Volvo down the middle!”
“This is a unique vehicle,” explained Duncan Crosby. “It’s the first Volvo B13R 9700 on a 2 axle configuration, not only that but it’s a lovely vehicle and very well specked out”.
ENDS
26 July 2011
Caption for image: Volvo’s first B13R two axle coach with 9700 bodywork has been delivered to Hollinshead Coaches.