The first AOS Grand Toro II midicoach has arrived with UK and Ireland supplier EVM for testing ahead of a 2026 launch into the market for the latest variant of the popular mid-engined model.

EVM has seen success with the existing Grand Toro, which couples a Cummins B4.5 engine and Allison automatic gearbox with a maximum of 37 seats within a compact footprint.

As the model’s latest iteration, the AOS Grand Toro II has what EVM says is a suite of refined improvements that will strengthen the model’s electrical robustness, increase its interior durability, enhance environmental protection, and elevate overall quality assurance. Restyling has also been introduced.

The new product also comes fully compliant with the EU General Safety Regulation 2 (GSR2). Technologies forming part of the GSR2 work include:

• • Blind Spot Information System, which detects vehicles in blind spots and alerts the driver to help prevent potential collisions
  • Moving Off Information System to detect pedestrians around the midicoach when it moves away and alert the driver
  • Intelligent Speed Assistance, which limits the vehicle’s speed according to traffic regulations and alerts the driver to instances of speeding
  • Emergency Stop Signal to automatically activate the hazard lights during sudden braking to warn following vehicles
  • Cybersecurity measures that protect in-vehicle communication systems from cyberattacks and ensures secure data transmission
  • Reversing Motion, which alerts the driver to obstacles when in reverse.

EVM notes that while GSR2 has not yet been adopted in the UK, investing in compliant vehicles now futureproofs investments and delivers immediate safety benefits.

Other refinements made to the AOS Grand Toro II are described as “meaningful” by EVM, which adds that they have been implemented following extensive evaluation of operator feedback and real-world performance data. That leaves the updated model “fully aligned with market expectations for reliability and lifecycle cost.”

Continues Founder and CEO Danny McGee: “Ground-built midicoaches are the future. They are more competitive than a chassis-plus-body approach, and having a fully integrated product means no disputes between chassis manufacturer and bodybuilder.

“There is one source for aftersales, and we provide unrivalled support from purchase through to resale.” The new model will be fully backed by EVM’s technical expertise and parts and service management arm.

Arrival of early demonstrators with the supplier is part of what it describes as “a structured pre-launch programme.”

Head of Operations Cosimo Facecchia adds: “My team work tirelessly to uphold high manufacturer standards and quality assurance. Sharing the vehicle with customers before launch provides open and honest feedback, giving us valuable insights for continued improvements before release and beyond.”

Initial customer impressions are strong, the dealer continues, with pricing, passenger capacity and exterior kerb appeal commented upon, along with the traveller experience.