Voith is supplying 140 four-speed DIWA automatic gearboxes that are being fitted to Alexander Dennis Enviro200s supplied to Stagecoach this autumn.
The DIWA’s first gear replaces the first two gears on a conventional automatic, cutting fuel consumption. It also reduces gear shifts at lower speeds giving a more comfortable ride for passengers. Voith said: “The new gearboxes are being rolled out onto Stagecoach vehicles across the UK.”
Stagecoach UK Bus Regional Director Sam Greer said: “We chose the Voith transmission because it has proven to be the most reliable and cost effective option. This coupled with the improved fuel economy and the company’s good customer service made it an obvious choice.”
John Domigan, Voith Turbo’s Sales and Marketing Manager, said: “In previous years Stagecoach opted for the three-speed box, but at the end of last year they selected the four-speed transmission as it showed a clear benefit in fuel consumption trials.
“This success is confirmation that our fuel consumption results in both existing buses and independent trials – coupled with our growing reputation for reliability and longevity – is playing a crucial part in keeping operator costs to a minimum over the life-cycle of buses.”