Volvo has announced high-capacity variants of its B8R coach with MCV Evotor body that will see the model gain a 12.8m variant that can carry up to 72 passengers in a 3+2 layout.

Alongside it will sit a 59-seat option at 2+2, with dealership Volvo Buses UK and Ireland noting that the new variant of the B8R Evotor combination will permit adjustment of capacity across its lifetime to give maximum versatility and residual value.

Its introduction will bring Volvo back into the high-capacity coach market on two axles. Deliveries of the new model are due to commence from autumn 2026. The newcomer complements the existing 12.6m Evotor and is the same height as that coach.

Volvo adds how the 12.8m variant will have a reconfigured entrance and luggage area that are redesigned to enable a flat floor. That has seen the seating area lowered slightly to the same height as the aisle. To achieve the higher seating capacity, the new model will come with a manual rear emergency exit with integrated steps.

Each seat will have a footrest and USB-A and USB-C charging points will be at each row. The dealership adds that all of the new model will be PSVAR compliant including a passenger lift, Hanover white LED destination displays and quick-release seats where applicable.

The driveline consists of the 7.7-litre D8K engine coupled to a ZF EcoLife six-speed automatic gearbox, a combination that Volvo says will deliver good driveability and strong fuel economy.

Speaking about the development, Volvo Buses UK and Ireland Managing Director Domenico Bondi says: “We have worked closely with our partner MCV to develop a solution for school transport operators.

“These customers face unique challenges, balancing safety, capacity and cost-efficiency while ferrying the next generation to and from the classroom and for educational outings.

“This new model addresses those demands with increased seating capacity, allowing students to travel together in a single vehicle. Combined with the reliability of the Volvo chassis and the D8K engine, operators and teachers can be confident that passengers will get to where they need to go comfortably and safely.”