Alexander Dennis has confirmed its first tranche of stock-built Plaxton coaches for the new year; 60 Plaxton Panther and Leopard coaches will be available for delivery from Q1 2023.
The manufacturer said that the move follows the continued recovery in the market for new coaches, with particularly high levels of interest being seen in versatile vehicles suited to a variety of operations. The initial build of 60 vehicles may be followed later in the year by additional coaches, it added. The build programme will include both Panther and Leopard coaches, all of them with side-mounted wheelchair lifts and destination equipment to meet PSV Accessibility Regulations. Built on the well-known Volvo B8R chassis, a choice of I-Shift and automatic transmissions will be offered, and all 2023 stock vehicles will have upgraded interiors with next-generation Brusa seats fitted as standard.
Plaxton Panther stock will be available with a choice of 53 or 57 seats and toilet at the continental exit door, or 61 seats. The Leopard, designed for school and contract services and private hires, and fitted with an in-swing door, will be available with 59 seats in a 2+2 arrangement or 72 seats in a 3+2 configuration.
Simon Wood, General Manager for New & Used Coach Sales at Alexander Dennis, says: “We’re delighted to confirm our initial stock programme for next year with no fewer than 60 Plaxton Panther and Plaxton Leopard coaches that will give operators a wide range of options to best suit their requirements. These will be fantastic additions to any fleet that will be prepared for long working lives while also offering great residual values if operating requirements change. With strong demand continuing for pre-used vehicles, especially the Plaxton Leopard, we will continue to offer attractive trade-ins on late-model vehicles.”
Sales Director at Volvo Bus UK Phil Owen added: “We are proud to partnership with Plaxton once again in supplying 60 B8R chassis. The B8R chassis is a tried and tested platform, it has all the technical, safety, Euro VI and fuel-saving benefits that Volvo are renown for. Bodied by Plaxton it provides the industry with a vehicle that offers a great level of versatility and value for money.”
