Wil Travel adds a high-specification Erener Revolution midicoach
Wil Travel of Dunfermline has introduced an Iveco Daily with coachbuilt Erener Revolution bodywork, supplied by EVM UK.
It is to a luxury fit-out, including 16 seats in grey with red trim at a 2+1 configuration. Three-point belts, diamond stitching and armrests at the window and aisle sides are included, as are USB-A, USB-C and 240-volt charging points. Two tables towards the rear continue the coordinated colour approach, as do the curtains.
A fridge within the dash, panoramic side glazing and LED internal lighting are also part of the package, as is a touchscreen-based multimedia system with saloon speakers.
Luggage space is within a rear boot and side lockers to give a total of around five cubic metres. The driver gets an electrically-powered sunblind, while a courier position is also provided.
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Irizar shares developments on zero-emission coach offerings
Introduction of a dedicated right-hand-drive hydrogen fuel-cell electric coach for the UK is being hampered by the country's hydrogen ecosystem, executives from Irizar Group have said.
The statement comes after the company detailed progress with the second generation of development on its fuel-cell electric coach prototype, which continues to target a 1,000km range for long-distance zero-emission operation.
Chief Executive of Irizar S. Coop Imanol Rego (pictured) and Irizar UK Managing Director Andrew Blundell note the Group has “big ambitions” to grow its presence in the UK market, but that the arrival of the fuel-cell electric coach, currently a proof-of-concept, hinges on developments in the hydrogen ecosystem.
Mr Rego says that includes investments in electrolysers and the availability of green hydrogen. “As soon as we see developments in green hydrogen increase, and the availability of a competitive price for hydrogen, the platform will be here,” he adds.
The hydrogen coach programme forms part of development of a broader electric coach platform. Mr Rego hints that Irizar is also monitoring battery technology closely and that a long-distance battery-electric coach may follow when energy density reaches the level needed to meet the group’s specification for extended-haul work. “We are on the new generation of batteries, the third generation, and closer to making a coach that would meet the specification for long-distance applications,” he says.
Until then, hydrogen offers a means of delivering on range without the penalty associated with large battery packs.
Andrew Blundell, Managing Director of Irizar UK, also stresses that introduction of a fuel-cell electric option “is not about the vehicle — it’s about the supply of hydrogen, and the infrastructure.”
Last year, the government confirmed £500 million in support for hydrogen infrastructure announced in the Spending Review, which it says will enable the development of the first regional hydrogen transport and storage network.
Wheelers Travel adds a pair of Mercedes-Benz Tourismo coaches
Wheelers Travel of Southampton has continued its fleet investment programme with the arrival of a pair of Mercedes-Benz Tourismo coaches, supplied by Daimler Buses UK.
They seat 53 in Travel Star Eco fabric upholstery. Armrests, drop-down tables and USB charging are present at each position, while both vehicles have a centre sunken toilet.
PSVAR compliance has been specified, a package that uses a factory-fitted passenger lift and white LED destination displays. The driver benefits from a heated seat and a leather-trimmed steering wheel.
Safety items include a rear-view camera, Active Brake Assist 6, Sideguard Assist 2 and Traffic Sign Assist. Polished alloy wheels and cherished registration marks complete the visual element of the new Tourismo pair.
Under the bonnet, they are both powered by a 7.7-litre OM 936 engine developing 350bhp coupled to the eight-speed PowerShift automated manual gearbox.
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