VDL Bus & Coach is supplying 65 mini/midi buses to Cyprus Public Transport (CPT) for the island of Cyprus. The total order consists of 15 VDL MidCitys (the first four of which have already been delivered) and 50 VDL MidEuros. The new bus company CPT is the operator for the district of Nicosia and Larnaca; its latest contract begins on 5 July and has a duration of 10 years.
The order follows the operator’s recent acquisition of 120 new full-size buses and 36 new coaches from King Long.
The MidCitys will operate mainly in the historic capital Nicosia and on quiet routes through Larnaca, where demand changes during the winter and summer seasons. Meanwhile, the MidEuros will be used in the less populated areas, where these buses are the only means of public transport for local residents.
Julio Tironi, CEO of CPT, commented: “We are confident that our loyal customer will appreciate the modern design and comfort of these buses, and are looking forward to the delivery of the remaining 61 vehicles.”
Mark Francot, Director of VDL Bus Venlo, the production company within VDL Bus & Coach responsible for the mini and midi segment, added: “It makes me very proud that our VDL MidCity and VDL MidEuro are going into operation in this new market in Cyprus. The delivery of these versatile vehicles shows that VDL Bus & Coach, with its various products, can provide the right solution for every transport need.”
The MidCity has what VDL describes as a ‘multifunctional section’ with a low floor that is ideal for standing passengers or wheelchairs. Its compact dimensions make it a worthy consideration for city centres and metropolitan areas. The CPT vehicles have 14 seats, 11 standing places and a wheelchair space with a ramp. Additional features include USB charging points, a ticket console next to the driver and a double door that measures 1,240mm wide, making it the widest door in the segment according to VDL.
By contrast, the MidEuro is a compact coach aimed at the luxury passenger transport segment. However, VDL says that its efficient engine and range of layout options make it a cost-effective all-rounder for scheduled services. CPT’s vehicles are being supplied in a public transport configuration and are equipped with 17 passenger seats as well as a co-driver’s seat.
The vehicles are also equipped with an electric sliding door and electric extendable entrance step, which the driver can operate via the dashboard. There are USB connections for both the driver and passengers, and payments can be made through the ticket console located next to the driver.
