The operator is returning to Volvo for its latest purchase after successfully running its first MCV Evora since 2023
Suffolk-based BorderBus has placed an order for a second Volvo B8RLE MCV Evora service bus after being highly satisfied with the performance of an identical model purchased in October 2023.
The new 10.8m single-deck vehicle is being built to the same specification, and is scheduled to enter service later this year, joining a fleet predominantly made up of other vehicle types. It will join the existing Evora in operating the six-day-a-week route 146 from Southwold to Norwich via Kessingland and Beccles – a route on which the operator says its initial 73-registered vehicle has been delivering impressive fuel efficiency and a faultless service.
Managing Director of BorderBus Andrew Pursey said: “The B8RLE MCV Evora came onto our radar as there’s a lot of them operating in the region, and we wanted to see how one would stand up against the single-deck buses we were already running. To collect some feedback a group of us took a journey on an Evora in the Sanders Coaches fleet and the first thing we all noticed was the quality of the ride. The suspension was so smooth; it soaked up the bumps and potholes – aided by the fact it rode on 22.5” tyres, rather than 19.5” tyres common on vehicles of this size. We were sold on it immediately.”
Andrew said his only apprehension was as to whether the Volvo’s 7.7-litre D8K engine could match the fuel efficiency BorderBus was accustomed to from other vehicles on its fleet, which typically operate with a smaller 4.5-litre engine. He explained: “We suspected the larger engine might cost us at the pumps, but that’s not been the case. It’s hit a real fuel efficiency sweet spot, averaging 12.86mpg on the 146, which is very competitive given the passenger loads we carry. Drivers have also appreciated the extra performance as it means they don’t have to work the engine as hard.
“The decision to order a second Evora was an easy one, as the first vehicle hasn’t skipped a beat in service. When you’re running a busy operation to timetable, you can’t underestimate the importance of a product which delivers great reliability, comfort, safety and fuel efficiency, day after day.”
The new B8RLE MCV Evora will wear the company’s smart blue, white and yellow livery, and is expected to clock-up around 72,000 miles per annum. Both vehicles will be serviced and maintained in-house, supported by a supply of Volvo parts from the local Volvo Truck and Bus Centre South & East dealership in Norwich.
