Irizar UK is named Go-Ahead Group strategic coach supply partner
Irizar UK has been appointed strategic coach supply partner by the Go-Ahead Group. That will give its operating companies access to a comprehensive range of Irizar vehicles across multiple lengths and configurations, with the framework supporting a commitment of more than 90 coaches across an initial three-year period.
Additional opportunities beyond that are anticipated as Go-Ahead continues to develop and expand its coach operations, which have seen multiple business acquisitions in recent years.
Standard and touring specification coaches are included, as is a comprehensive package of ongoing parts and service support alongside options for end-of-life vehicle solutions. That approach aligns with both organisations’ focus on maximising efficiency and reducing total cost of ownership across coach lifecycles, Irizar UK says.
The dealership – which earlier in 2026 significantly grew its sales and support capability with the opening of new premises in Blyth – has secured the position with Go-Ahead after a competitive tender process, an exercise that Irizar UK Managing Director Andrew Blundell describes as “very rigorous.”
Under the framework, Go-Ahead gains streamlined access to a consistent vehicle supply programme across its operating companies. That supports procurement efficiency, fleet standardisation, and enhanced operational flexibility.
For Irizar UK, the agreement creates what it says is “a platform for deeper collaboration with one of the industry’s most influential transport groups” in a partnership that will enable both parties to collaborate on future fleet development, sustainability initiatives, and operational best practice.
It adds that sustainability was key to the tendering process. Both Irizar UK and Go-Ahead recognise the importance of reducing environmental impact while maintaining high standards of passenger experience and operational performance, the dealership says.
“The framework’s lifecycle approach, encompassing vehicle support, parts support, service provision and end-of-life solutions, supports a more sustainable and efficient model of fleet management,” Irizar UK adds.
Go-Ahead Group Head of Procurement and Strategic Contracts Sebastian Golby-Meek describes the Irizar i6S Efficient model as “particularly compelling” for the group’s coach businesses, noting that it brings together reduced fuel consumption and lower emissions with whole-life efficiency.
On the framework, Mr Golby-Meek adds: “This award reflects Go-Ahead’s proactive approach to strategic procurement: working with partners that can combine a highly professional operation with proven product quality, strong lifecycle support, and a clear commitment to sustainability.
“Irizar demonstrated throughout the tender process that it understands the needs of large, complex transport operators and can provide a vehicle and support proposition that delivers operational reliability, commercial value, and an excellent passenger experience.”
He notes how work by Irizar to develop alternative fuel technologies within its products gives Go-Ahead confidence that the partnership “can support both our current operational requirements and our longer-term transition to more sustainable coach solutions.”
Mr Blundell says that consolidation in the coach industry means it is “strategically important” for the dealership to have a vehicle offering that is attractive to large fleets. "This partnership with Go-Ahead is further evidence that Irizar UK can be the supplier of choice whether you are buying one or 500 units,” he continues,
“The framework arrangement is built around a portfolio of services, ensuring that we support Go-Ahead Group operating companies throughout the Irizar ownership life. This reflects our recent business transition, giving us the capability to align with customers through not only the sales and specification process, but also with comprehensive aftersales and parts supply.
“I am incredibly proud of the commitment and dedication that the team showed in this tender. It is a tough process, and to come out of as number one choice really showcases our capabilities, professionalism, and passion to achieve the desired outcome.”
Two Van Hool TDX27 Astromega coaches join Grange Travel
Grange Travel of Gravesend has added a pair of Van Hool TDX27 Astromega double-deck coaches to its fleet, supplied by VDL Bus UK.
They are each 14.2m long and have 86 Kiel 1020 seats upholstered in leather. Three-point belts, carbon-effect armrests, USB charging and drop-down tables are part of that package.
On the lower deck is a freshwater toilet with electric dryer. Grange Travel has also specified a fridge, a boiler, a microwave, and 22-inch LCD monitors in both saloons. They are coupled to a DVD player as part of an entertainment system that includes a radio and CD player.
A camera monitoring system is included in lieu of conventional mirrors, and both coaches have pavement lighting on each side. Power is from the DAF MX-13 engine developing 530bhp coupled to the Allison T525R six-speed automatic gearbox.
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Wrightbus GB Kite Electroliner fleet makes debut with Lothian
Lothian has taken delivery of its first current-generation Wrightbus battery-electric buses in the form of nine GB Kite Electroliner single-decks. The Edinburgh operator is putting them to work on route 36 between Ocean Terminal and Gyle Centre, converting it to zero-emission from diesel-electric hybrid.
They represent an investment of £3.6 million and can each carry 76 passengers. Included in the specification is a dedicated space for a wheelchair user and a multi-use area for buggies and mobility aids. The municipal says that the electrics are part of wider work to modernise its fleet and operate a more sustainable transport network.
In addition to the GB Kite Electroliner deliveries, Lothian noted in May that with part-funding from the third round of the Scottish Zero Emission Bus challenge fund it expects to order 20 Wrightbus StreetDeck Electroliner double-decks alongside 40 Volvo BZL examples with Alexander Dennis Enviro400EV bodies.
Engineering Director Dylan Dastey has welcomed the single-deck arrivals. “This investment is about delivering the best possible experience for our customers, with modern vehicles that are comfortable, accessible, and reliable," he says.
“The new buses provide a quieter and smoother journey while helping us to continue to improve the quality of our network. As customer expectations evolve, it is important that we continue investing in our fleet and infrastructure to ensure public transport remains an attractive, accessible and convenient choice for people travelling across Edinburgh.”
Adds Wrightbus Managing Director Christian Reynolds: “We are proud to be working with Lothian Buses as it continues its drive towards an all-zero-emission fleet.
“Wrightbus has a proud history of working with Lothian. This latest partnership is not only another step towards decarbonising public transport, providing cleaner air for the people of Scotland, but it also supports domestic supply chain jobs across Scotland and the UK.”
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