SWEDEN Söne Buss AB of Sweden has taken delivery of 10 VDL FMD2-148s, a 14.8-metre variant of the Futura that has been manufactured especially for the operator. The coaches are based at Karlskoga in the middle of Sweden and used on route 500 between Örebro and Karlskoga.
The VDL Futura FMD2, which won the IBC Economy Award last year, is known for its high profitability, says VDL, being ideal for both touring and intercity work. For the operator, the Futura FMD2 means ‘Profit of Ownership’. The low net weight, reduced fuel consumption, high passenger capacity, generous luggage space and low running costs make the Futura FMD2 a highly profitable investment.
The Söne Buss Futuras have spacious seating for 57 and have wheelchair lifts at their middle entrances. The FMD2-148 variant was specially built for Söne Buss to accommodate the large numbers of passengers it carries, particularly an issue apparently during the winter. The coaches are also equipped with a winter specification that includes extras such as additional heating at the doors due to the cold climate.
Söne Buss AB is one of the largest family-owned Swedish bus companies. Founded in 1927 by Albert Gustafsson, it is now run by the third generation, granddaughter Maria Gustavsson and her brother Christian Plyhm. With a fleet of 200 buses and coaches, the company provides local, regional and long-distance services mainly in southern Sweden from 10 depots.
