News from Volvo: Travellers Choice of Carnforth has outlined fuel economy as the key factor in its decision to specify Volvo, following the recent delivery of six new B11R coaches with Jonckheere bodywork.
The Lancashire based company bought its first Volvo coach in 1972 and has had a strong association with the Swedish manufacturer ever since. This latest six vehicle purchase means that 90% of the operator’s entire fleet is now Volvo specified.
“Fuel economy on the B11R is excellent,” explained Travellers Choice Managing Director, John Shaw. “We have a long association with Volvo and the performance of these latest vehicles is already the very best we’ve experienced on a coach of that size.
“Like all operators today, we have to be cost sensitive and it’s vital that our vehicles deliver fuel performance of the very highest standard. Volvo has clearly done a lot of work with its range and our new coaches clearly demonstrate that.
“In addition, the drivers are reporting that the new coaches are easier to manoeuvre, with gear changes much smoother thanks to the first class Volvo I-Shift gearbox. This early feedback certainly bodes well.”
Travellers Choice’s new B11R coaches are already operating on various UK tours and are also proving popular with passengers. The vehicles are fitted with 53 passenger seats and also feature a servery and two TV screens.
The new vehicles are specified with the Volvo D11K 430hp engine connected to the 12-speed Volvo i-Shift gearbox.
“As long-term Volvo buyers Travellers Choice knows the quality that comes as standard with our coaches,” explained Regional Coach Sales Manager, Phil Hudson. “However, it was important that they saw the continued development taking place with our products across the board. The improved fuel performance achieved by the B11R is clearly something that has impressed them.”