Dublin-based Harris Group’s Bus and Coach division has launched a concept for a fully kitted out Covid-19 mobile testing and vaccination bus built around the Isuzu AOS Visigo midicoach, in response to a public health plan to manage the spread of the pandemic.
The Covid-19 mobile testing bus is the latest in a series of concept bus projects undertaken as part of what Harris Group calls its ‘commitment to new thinking and innovation.’
The design concept showcases how a passenger coach can be re-envisioned as an adaptable resource to fit current needs – in this case increasing Covid-19 testing and vaccination capacity on a mobile basis.
Harris Group says that its fully functioning vehicle is a flexible and cost-effective answer to the unique needs brought on by the pandemic, with the ability to carry a trained response crew and necessary/associated lab equipment in one vehicle. It could extend care outreach to rural communities, schools, and existing healthcare facilities by bringing vital equipment to be used on demand.
“We are all aware of the importance of mass Covid-19 testing and vaccinations for our economic and public health. However, there is not enough happening to help the hard-pressed agencies operating at the frontline to bring these solutions to every far-reaching corner of Ireland,” said Chris Haughton, General Manager of the Harris Group Bus and Coach division.
The conversion takes the Isuzu AOS Visigo and kits it out with features such as side awnings, eight removable seats for the crew, a W.C, wet area, water boiler, kitchen, four pop-up tents stored underfloor, external lights, and a portable generator. Lab and other equipment may be customised depending on the customer requirements.
“These buses are adapted from a tried and tested model already on the road and will offer the necessary technology, flexibility, efficiency, and mobility needed to adapt to anyone’s use case,” added Chris.
Praised for its design by a Design Platinum Award in 2018, the Isuzu AOS Visigo won Irish Midi Coach of the Year at the Fleet Transport Bus & Coach Awards 2020.
