The UK’s first 15-metre Scania Irizar i6 is about to enter service on a six month trial with Stagecoach’s megabus.com. It’s to be based at Rugby depot where it will operate on routes across the country.
Based on a Scania K410EB6x2*4, the vehicle has a Euro 6 DC13-115 engine and Opticruise GR875R eight-speed automated gearbox with integral retarder. There’s also a Scania’s C200 OnBoard fleet management system and the coach is the first in the UK to combine a 13-litre engine with a front wheelchair lift (PLS and Magic Floor) and a full height emergency door with fold-out cassette steps.
As well as 61 Irizar PB seats with three-point seatbelts, leather headrests and centre armrests, there are three-pin electrical sockets and USB charging sockets at each double seat, Hanover DDA-compliant destination equipment, a Synetics CCTV system and a rear offside surface-mounted Shades freshwater toilet.
“Scania has long enjoyed a productive and mutually beneficial business relationship with Stagecoach and we are delighted to have been given the opportunity to prove this exciting new vehicle on its megabus.com service,” said Tony Tomsett, Bus, Coach and Engine Sales Director for Scania (Great Britain) Limited. “The Scania Irizar i6 is highly appointed. We are therefore confident it will be extremely well received both by megabus.com and its customers.”
Megabus.com Managing Director Elizabeth Esnouf said: “We are always keen to look at new options that have the potential to enhance our fleet and deliver a continued high standard of service for our customers. This is potentially an exciting new vehicle for us and we look forward to the results of this trial.”
