Single-deckers are replaced with double-decker Enviro400 MMCs, representing a £4.5m investment
Stagecoach South’s Gold route 1 from Aldershot to Farnborough and Camberley has seen a £4.5m investment in a new bus fleet.
The latest vehicles are 18 double-decker Alexander Dennis Ltd (ADL) Enviro400 MMCs, which include E-Leather seating, free WiFi and USB charging points.
The vehicles have replaced single-decker ADL Enviro300s, most of which are built on MAN chassis and have first generation Stagecoach Gold specification.
Edward Hodgson, Managing Director for Stagecoach South, commented: “We continue to significantly invest in our fleet to improve our service and customer experience.
“These ‘next generation’ buses will enhance connectivity, comfort and sustainability for customers – signifying our solid commitment to delivering an unbeatable, eco-friendly travel experience.
“The Gold route 1 maintains important links across the district and with the additional in-travel benefits and more seating capacity, we hope to tempt even more people to try the service.”
The buses have also been fitted with Euro 6 engines and utilise ‘Smart Accessories,’ meaning that the air compressor and alternator only charge the systems when the vehicle is braking or slowing down – when there is no fuel being used – creating ‘free energy’ and returning improved fuel economy and lower CO2 emissions.
The Stagecoach Gold route 1 operates every 10 minutes Monday to Saturday daytimes and every 15 minutes most of the day on Sundays.
Prior to going into service on December 5, the vehicles debuted at a special photo ceremony, held within the grounds of Farnborough College of Technology, one of the key destinations along the route for students and staff.
Speaking at the launch, Principal Virginia Barrett said: “We are very pleased that Stagecoach has come to Farnborough College of Technology to launch these high-tech new buses, especially as three of our students are currently doing their Engineering Apprenticeships with coach and bus manufacturer ADL.
“ADL is responsible for building each of these buses and it’s a thrilling thought that some of our students may be a part of the manufacturing team of the future.
“Farnborough College of Technology is very proud of our strong links to local employers and industry in general which are so important to improve employability and prosperity for the whole community.”
