Ensign Bus has taken delivery of six new Volvo B5LH hybrid buses with Wrightbus bodywork for use on local services in the Thurrock area.
Engineering Director Brian Longley said: “We’ve been keen to invest in hybrid technology for a while and the Volvo hybrid driveline with the Wrightbus bodywork provides a really nice combination. We wanted the vehicles to be as environmentally friendly and fuel efficient as possible, without compromising on driveability. Volvo’s parallel drive system was very appealing and we’re looking forward to placing the new vehicles into operation.”
The B5LHs use parallel hybrid architecture to achieve fuel savings. The system combines the power of a 4.8-litre diesel engine with an electric motor.
The vehicles were handed over to Ensign Bus Chairman Peter Newman by Volvo Bus Regional Sales Manager, Phil Fletcher. “The outstanding fuel efficiency of these hybrid vehicles was a determining factor in this sale,” Phil explained. “There is a real interest in the industry as to how Volvo hybrid development has progressed and this sale represents further evidence of that.”
Brian added: “We have a longstanding relationship with Volvo Bus and with the local MC Group dealership. We’ve had a large number of Volvo manufactured vehicles in the past and it was a pleasure working with Phil Fletcher on the purchase of these vehicles.”
