Manufacturer to supply 114 Metrocity buses in 10.1m and 10.8m lengths to Tranzit Group
Optare has secured its biggest ever Australasian export order with a NZ$40m (£21m) deal to supply 114 buses to Tranzit Group, one of New Zealand’s largest public transport operators.
The agreement will see Optare provide 114 Euro 6 Metrocity buses to the New Zealand capital, Wellington, and the surrounding region. The first of the Metrocitys are due to be delivered in March 2018, with the entire order expected to be fulfilled by July 2018. Graham Belgum, President of Optare, commented: “This is a significant step for Optare as part of our international export strategy and signals the exciting growth opportunities available to us in Australasia.
“Further, it recognises our continued innovation in lightweight products that use fuel efficient and environmentally friendly technologies.”
Paul Snelgrove, Managing Director of Tranzit Group, said: “A team of us travelled the world to find the ideal lightweight solution (12-tonne GVM) for New Zealand roads.
“We were impressed with the lightweight design of the Metrocity, combined with the excellent passenger capacities it offers. The design’s reputation for excellent performance with regards to fuel efficiency particularly appealed to us.
“In addition, the Metrocity provided us both a small and medium-sized vehicle option at 10.1m and 10.8m respectively, with identical body and running gear. The 10.1m Metrocity, with a shorter wheelbase, is ideal for travelling through some of Wellington’s narrow streets and hilly terrain.
“Overall, we were impressed with Optare’s approach and willingness to work in partnership – it was a no-brainer decision for us.”
Jason Pecotic, General Manager of Optare’s Australasian distributor Bus Corp Oceania, said the low weight from the vehicle’s monocoque construction means the Metrocity offers 30% more seating capacity while still fitting within New Zealand’s 12-tonne GVM tax bracket.
He added: “Optare’s monocoque design saves around 900kg in weight, meaning it generates more pay-load while saving the operator money.
“In this case we estimate that the Metrocity will deliver savings of around $4,000 per bus per year for Tranzit before taking into account double digit savings in fuel consumption and operating costs.”
