Lucketts has become the latest operator to trial Irizar UK’s i4H hybrid coach, following in the footsteps of Prospect of Lye Cross and Coventry-based Travel de Courcey.
Mark Jordan, Group Engineering Director at Lucketts, said: “We’re incredibly excited to take part in this important trial. The coach industry is working hard to drive down its impact on the environment and hybrid vehicles are the logical next step. Our drivers will be working closely with the manufacturer Irizar to give their feedback on how the vehicle works in a real-life context.”
The Irizar i4H has regenerative braking, which means it recharges itself while the driver has their foot on the brake. Mark said the feature would be particularly useful during rush hour journeys on roads such as the M27 and M3, which often have heavy traffic.
He added: “The stop-start nature is where the electric power comes into its own, so this vehicle is going to be perfect for the more urban jobs we undertake too.”
Lucketts Travel MD, Tony Lawman, said: “I’m delighted that Lucketts is involved in this trial and looking forward to hearing how what drivers and customers think of it. If the vehicles prove a hit with staff and customers we’ll certainly be looking into getting our own hybrid coach in the not-too-distant future as part of our on-going investment in our fleet.”
