Van Hool has unveiled its next generation of touring and executive coaches, the new T series
Following on from the well-known Van Hool T8, T9 and TX ranges, Van Hool has introduced the T-series as its next generation touring coach offering, which it describes as the logical successor to previous models. Previewed in December, Van Hool says the T-series will set the tone for the brand over the next decade and fits in perfectly with its existing portfolio of coaches, namely the EX and TDX series.
At the launch event, the manufacturer demonstrated its new Alicron, T Acron and T Astron single-deckers, which retain the familiar model names of earlier models. Van Hool says its latest coach is guided by four main themes: aerodynamics, design, comfort and safety.
Aerodynamic
The new arrival’s clean, controlled aerodynamics front and rear offer optimal efficiency by reducing fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, says the manufacturer. It’s wrap-around design at the front and rear retains an element of familiarity, and the front lip spoiler ensures optimal streamlining to avoid as much air turbulence as possible. Fog lights and cornering lights have also been integrated into the smooth design of the front end, which has a revised, more restrained if somewhat bland look. Integrated fairing fins and a roof spoiler are designed to guide the air flow as it leaves the vehicle at the rear, further reducing turbulence to the maximum extent.
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Likewise, the large convex windscreen has been designed to reduce drag, improve air flow and maximise efficiency, Van Hool says. The underside also boasts a smooth finish to minimise air turbulence. The combined efforts also promise to reduce wind noise to a minimum, helping to contribute to the overall feeling of comfort, a key aim for Van Hool in designing the new coach.
The new T series has redesigned wing mirrors as standard, but also offers cameras to replace the mirrors as an option, which Van Hool says will add further to the aerodynamic properties of the new design.
Design
Van Hool describes the T as “traditional and recognisable design according to Van Hool’s typical style canons. A horizontal interplay of lines results in an innovative, elegant and timeless concept in the Van Hool tradition.”
Horizontal lines front and rear, together with the chrome strip on the side of the vehicle, make the T instantly recognisable as a Van Hool product, enhanced by subtle chrome elements at the front of the coach and the glossy black surface between the headlights which the manufacturer says emphasises the Van Hool design language and also gives the T a premium look, although it is hard to escape the fact that it is a somewhat plain-looking coach, devoid of details to relieve the large flat panels.
The front and rear lights are the now-standard LEDs, while a chrome strip creates a separation between the windows and the bodywork. At the rear, the side of the coach is adorned with a body-coloured fin that provides a ‘dynamic touch’ to the design of the flanks, but makes no visual contact with roof and bodywork.
However, on the inside, the T really captures the attention. All surfaces are finished in fashionable black, such as the window framing, seat frames and rails. The roof liner above the driver’s seat, on the other hand, is finished in a light colour and is indirectly illuminated by the LED interior lighting. The result is a muted luxury lighting effect which avoids disturbing the driver and his view outside.
The driver benefits from a completely new work environment, with a new dashboard offering ergonomic design and a pleasant, modern and premium-feeling workplace. A digital display and a multimedia system with both touchscreen and physical keys are designed to not only facilitate a driver’s work but also make it enjoyable.
The new interior is created with materials chosen to be pleasant to touch, giving a premium ambience thanks to subtle strips in brushed chrome. A new generation of seats also make their appearance with the launch of the T. The seats are designed to be both lighter and more comfortable, offering a whole range of options whilst giving a weight saving of between 5kg and 6kg per seat, helping achieve the bottom line reduction in fuel consumption.
Passengers have the use of newly designed overhead racks which are slightly tilted, increasing the storage volume, whilst the edge has been moved further from the aisle to create a greater sense of space. This also allows passengers seated in aisle seats to stand up straight without being obstructed by the racks.
In the entrance area, the steps have also been widened, and the folding courrier seat moved to allow more space, while passengers have more and larger handles available for easy and safe access to the vehicle.
Van Hool has also developed a new climate control system for its new T range which it says heats and cools better and faster, while also being more energy efficient and quieter than the previous generation. Depending on the version, the new systems produce 6 to 10 decibels less noise, says Van Hool, which marks a step forward in terms of overall passenger comfort. The air-conditioning is divided into four individual but centrally controlled compact units, which are recessed into the roof and provide rapid and even climate control in all four zones of the cabin. The driver also enjoys enhanced comfort thanks to a new heating system at the front with a separate connection for the driver.
Safety
Safety is not forgotten: a range of systems are fitted to assist and alert the driver. Mobileye’s Shield+ safety programme is fitted as standard, and comprises :
- Turning Assist to detect the presence of vulnerable road users next to the vehicle;
- Pedestrian Collision Warning, whichdetects moving pedestrians in front of the vehicle and warns the driver in the event of an impending collision;
- Speed Limitation Indication, which recognises traffic signs with a speed indication and displays them on the dashboard;
- Traffic Sign Recognition;
- Highway Monitoring Warning to warn the driver if the distance to the vehicle in front is too small, and;
- Turn Signal Reminder, which reminds the driver of a direction indicator left on too long.
This is further supplemented with the DDI, or Driver Drowsiness Indication, which monitors the driver’s condition via steering behaviour and provides an alert by means of an audible and visual alarm.
The Van Hool T will initially be marketed as the Van Hool T Alicron (12-13 m), T Acron (10-14 m) and T Astron (13-14 m). Engines will be from PACCAR-DAF’s range of EURO VI NG powerplants offering capacities of 11 or 13 litres and with a power range of 270kW/367hp to 390kW/530hp. A choice of automated manual ZF Traxon and automatic ZF EcoLife and Allison gearboxes will be offered.
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