Dawsonrentals has secured a ‘strategic partnership agreement’ with Optare, which includes a 50- bus order.
The agreement gives Dawsonrentals access to the international sales force of Ashok Leyland, to help facilitate the disposal of its used vehicles in righthand- drive markets outside the UK. In return, Dawsonrentals will purchase new replacement vehicles from Optare for its UK rental fleet.
The initial order will be delivered over the next six months and includes a mix of Solos, mostly in 9.0 and 9.7m form. Optare Deputy CEO Glenn Saint said: “This collaboration will enable Dawson’s, through the purchase of Optare buses, to replace its rental fleet with new, improved and more fuel efficient vehicles.
“The agreement benefits Dawson’s by creating an outlet for its used vehicles in countries where the initial purchase price may be an obstacle to the acquisition of brand new buses. It will also reduce the excess of ageing vehicles in the UK.
“This is a further demonstration of the excellent ‘fit’ of our Ashok Leyland ownership. We have always said such benefits would flow from this and here is a very significant one.”
Paul Sainthouse, MD of Dawsonrentals bus and coach, added: “Our rental business depends upon our success in marketing our used vehicles and this agreement gives us access to new world markets for them, supported by a top five global bus player – Ashok Leyland.
“This agreement also means we can offer our British rental customers an even better selection of new and advanced products from Optare.”
