Southern Transit has purchased two new, custom-made Alexander Dennis Enviro400 City double-decker buses.
Joining the fleet ahead of London’s Ultra-Low Emission Zone regulations, which come into force in April 2019, Southern Transit claims it is the only company to invest in the city-spec vehicles in the South East, making the buses the only ones in operation outside of London.
The purchase of the Enviro400 City buses, which Southern Transit has re-named ‘Citymasters’ to reflect their bespoke build, cost £500,000.
Neil Bird, Director of Southern Transit, commented: “Southern Transit may be a local independent business, but I wanted to ensure that we were prepared for the future, and could compete with the big players in the industry, hence taking the initiative to invest now. When the Ultra-Low Emission Zone regulations come into effect next year it is sure to affect a lot of people, not only industry professionals, but also group travel customers who must find a supplier that can meet the London requirements.
“It is clear that the independent coach and bus industry has diminished over the years with the big suppliers taking away large contracts, and less work overall, but I just couldn’t risk that with Southern Transit. Businesses today have to work hard and stay focused, a statement which is especially prevalent in public transport with technology advancing at a rapid pace.”
Southern Transit’s Citymasters feature ‘a sophisticated temperature control system,’ tables and chairs with USB charging points, a wireless bell system, sky-view windows and LED lighting. Seating 72 passengers, the buses will be available for private hire from May 2018 at around £800 per day.
