Maynes of Buckie has boosted its 2015 fleet replacement programme with the order of three VDL Futura 2s and an EVM minicoach. The four vehicles are in addition to a pair of DAF-powered Van Hool TXs already due to enter service with the Buckie-based operator next year.
The latest order comes in the wake of a visit by the Mayne family to the recent Coach & Bus Show 2014 in Dublin.
The VDLs, two of which will be 53-seater and the other a 57, will be built to Maynes’ executive specification.
Onboard facilities will include half-leather seats, full airconditioning, a WC, hot and cold drinks machine and a full entertainment system. They will also be equipped with pavement lights, together with a vacuum cleaner and coach wash to maintain the presentation for which the operator is well-known for.
While two of the new VDLs will sport a tour operator’s livery, all three will blend into Maynes’ touring and private hire fleet, predominately being engaged on UK and Continental tours.
Asked by CBW what the vehicles are replacing, Kevin Mayne, Operations Director at Maynes Coaches, replied: “Three 2012-registered Neoplan Tourliners, which have been traded in, will leave the fleet in mid June.”
The VIP-specification nine-seater Mercedes-Benz from EVM will have airline leather seats, with one table, wood effect flooring, dark tinted glass, air-conditioning and an on-board entertainment system.
Enthusing about the order, Kevin commented: “We have returned after a few years to place our chosen order with Moseleys for the 2015 season. Our last new VDL coaches joined our fleet in 2008 and we are looking forward to rejoining our partnership with Moseleys.
“The total investment at the show of around £880k allows us to continue to keep our fleet age profile to be one of the youngest in the UK. It shows our continued commitment to our customers that ‘Travelling The Mayne Way’ is to travel in a first class vehicle, specifically selected for its comfort, reliability and safety.”