Mellor has launched its high-floor electric bus, which it says is the first of its kind in the industry. Available in two length options of seven or nine metres, the new Sigma 7 and Sigma 9 High Floor offer a zero-emission solution for specialist passenger transport.
The new electric vehicle has been designed to support local authorities on their electrification journey; in 2020, disabled adults in England made 28% fewer trips than non-disabled adults, Mellor says, and the new vehicle has been designed to help close that transport gap and offer electric options for everyone. With a focus on accessibility, Mellor says its new vehicle has been deisigned to support those with specialist care needs, such as special education needs, the elderly and people with reduced ability.
Available with up to 22 seats or accommodating seven wheelchairs in the Sigma 7 and 34 seats or up to 10 wheelchairs in the Sigma 9, the flat-floor buses sport a standard-fit wheelchair lift, have a claimed range of 160 miles and offer a host of configurable options. With orders already received for the Sigma High Floor range, Mellor publicly debuted the seven-metre bus at the APSE Scotland Fleet, Waste and Grounds Seminar 2023 in May. After its UK launch, the range is also set to be promoted in overseas markets.
Melor Sales Director Richard Matthews commented: “At Mellor, we believe that accessibility should never compromise on sustainability. Our industry-first High-Floor electric bus, part of our much-loved Sigma range, is a game changer for specialist passenger transport.
“Our skilled team have worked hard to create a vehicle that is not only environmentally friendly but also offers maximum accessibility, safety, and comfort for passengers. This latest innovation brings us one step closer to making sustainable transport more inclusive and accessible for all.”
