By the end of next year, no fewer than 19 new Euro 6 Alexander Dennis Ltd (ADL) Enviro500 double-deckers will enter service in Eastern Switzerland with PostBus – representing the first British-built double-deckers to be introduced in the country. The vehicles will offer 78 seats and 55 standing spaces.
Double-decker vehicles have been part of the PostBus fleet in Eastern Switzerland since 1995. The third generation is now being produced, as the double-decker buses currently in use are becoming outdated. The first two of the new vehicles will come into service imminently.
The buses will mainly be used on the Engelburg–St. Gallen–Heiden routes, and then subsequently in the Obertoggenburg and the regions of Rorschach and Goldach.
Alexander Dennis has adapted the Enviro500 to PostBus’ needs and Swiss regulations. The first new double-decker was presented to the media in Engelburg (canton St Gallen) on May 19. During an open day event on May 20, the locals were able to view the vehicle at the regional PostBus garage.
Between now and the end of 2018, the 19 double-decker Postbuses currently used in Eastern Switzerland will be replaced gradually by the new vehicles.
The new double-decker buses will be equipped with two sets of stairs to the top deck, and will have three entrances instead of two.
Both decks have dual display screens and free WiFi. The vehicles are 13 metres long and four metres high. They are powered by Cummins ISL six-cylinder engines, coupled with ZF EcoLife gearboxes.
