Bus Manufacturer News & Discussion

[Dfatcontroller]

It's not a problem that's insurmountable, though. If there's enough demand for a given chassis and body combination, they'll make the adaptations and build it. We are talking about a combination of two long-standing coach builders which, in the past, have had to build buses and coaches on a far greater range of chassis than is currently available

Plaxton's current strategy is to build a number of coaches to a standard specification that they think will satisfy demand for the coming year. For this year it was to build a batch of 60 vehicles, split between the Leopard and Panther models.

60 Plaxton Panther and Plaxton Leopard coaches in initial 2023 stock programme | Alexander Dennis

Alexander Dennis, a subsidiary of NFI Group Inc., one of the world’s leading independent global bus manufacturers, today confirmed its first tranche of stock-built Plaxton coaches for the new year. 60 new Plaxton Panther and Plaxton Leopard coaches will be available for delivery from Q1 2023...

www.alexander-dennis.com

For next year the plan is to build only Leopards for stock.

Alexander Dennis confirms Plaxton coach build programme for 2024 | Alexander Dennis

Alexander Dennis, a subsidiary of NFI Group Inc., one of the world’s leading independent global bus manufacturers, today confirmed that it will build a substantial number of Plaxton coaches in 2024. Stock output will focus on Plaxton Leopard coaches with side-mounted wheelchair lifts and...

www.alexander-dennis.com

This makes sense - build a batch of coaches in one go then turn the manufacturing facilities over to building buses for the rest of the year. If a customer wants something else in the product range, it'll be built to order - Plaxton says that its facilities are flexible enough to cope with this anyway. How big that order now needs to be, I don't know. I imagine that many coach operators doing run-of-the-mill stuff will be happy to take a product off the shelf. Companies that are looking for a more premium product are probably going to go for something like a Mercedes Tourismo or a Neoplan Tourliner anyway.

The problem with this "make an order big enough to justify making the changes" approach is it excludes current operators of Plaxton models who purchase in small quantities.
Acklam is a great example of an operator who would purchase a pair of Interdecks or an Elite or three and they are now prevented from doing so.
Custom lost by Plaxton.

 

[GusB]

The problem with this "make an order big enough to justify making the changes" approach is it excludes current operators of Plaxton models who purchase in small quantities.
Acklam is a great example of an operator who would purchase a pair of Interdecks or an Elite or three and they are now prevented from doing so.
Custom lost by Plaxton.

Has it actually been stated anywhere that they won't just build a couple of vehicles, though? On the web pages for the Elite, Interdeck, Panther LE and Panorama, it simply states that the coach is built to order and to contact the sales team for details.

 

[MotCO]

<Shudders> 3 hours on a motorway with that 6l Cummins lump screaming away? No thanks!

But operators have, I believe, placed repeat orders, so can they be that bad?

 

[Goldfish62]

But operators have, I believe, placed repeat orders, so can they be that bad?

Depends what they're used for. They have very much a bus feel, together with non-optional ADL rattles.

 

[MasterSpenny]

According to buslistsontheweb.co.uk, the second Yutong U11DD demonstrator has been given registration YD73FTP.

 

[dmncf]

According to buslistsontheweb.co.uk, the second Yutong U11DD demonstrator has been given registration YD73FTP.

Has anyone heard any updates on the two Yutong U11DD buses ordered by Newport Transport in Nov 2022?

Newport Transport orders two Yutong U11DD ’deckers - routeone

Newport Transport has become the first UK customer to commit to the Yutong battery-electric double-decker, now known as the U11DD.

www.route-one.net

 

[mbonwick]

It's not a problem that's insurmountable, though. If there's enough demand for a given chassis and body combination, they'll make the adaptations and build it. We are talking about a combination of two long-standing coach builders which, in the past, have had to build buses and coaches on a far greater range of chassis than is currently available

Plaxton's current strategy is to build a number of coaches to a standard specification that they think will satisfy demand for the coming year. For this year it was to build a batch of 60 vehicles, split between the Leopard and Panther models.

60 Plaxton Panther and Plaxton Leopard coaches in initial 2023 stock programme | Alexander Dennis

Alexander Dennis, a subsidiary of NFI Group Inc., one of the world’s leading independent global bus manufacturers, today confirmed its first tranche of stock-built Plaxton coaches for the new year. 60 new Plaxton Panther and Plaxton Leopard coaches will be available for delivery from Q1 2023...

www.alexander-dennis.com

For next year the plan is to build only Leopards for stock.

Alexander Dennis confirms Plaxton coach build programme for 2024 | Alexander Dennis

Alexander Dennis, a subsidiary of NFI Group Inc., one of the world’s leading independent global bus manufacturers, today confirmed that it will build a substantial number of Plaxton coaches in 2024. Stock output will focus on Plaxton Leopard coaches with side-mounted wheelchair lifts and...

www.alexander-dennis.com

This makes sense - build a batch of coaches in one go then turn the manufacturing facilities over to building buses for the rest of the year. If a customer wants something else in the product range, it'll be built to order - Plaxton says that its facilities are flexible enough to cope with this anyway. How big that order now needs to be, I don't know. I imagine that many coach operators doing run-of-the-mill stuff will be happy to take a product off the shelf. Companies that are looking for a more premium product are probably going to go for something like a Mercedes Tourismo or a Neoplan Tourliner anyway.

Or is this just Plaxton saying that they've got a decent MoD order for the next couple of years, and that any smaller orders will be fitted around that?

 

[Fletcj10]

Presumably this is pre-order vehicles on B11R chassis.

These are B8R and not even entering service yet. They have had some issues and some have already had to go back to Volvo for work. I'm unsure if they were already stock before the B8R new electrical version. I don’t know but they're not very good at the moment.

 

[Trnsprt4Sctlnd]

These are B8R and not even entering service yet. They have had some issues and some have already had to go back to Volvo for work. I'm unsure if they were already stock before the B8R new electrical version. I don’t know but they're not very good at the moment.

Volvo based products are usually reliable..I’ve heard that the Plaxton Panorama have not been particularly reliable.

Seen as the B8R is available with MCV EvoTor bodywork I can see the attraction to go elsewhere, whether the issues surrounding reliability have been by Volvo or Plaxton is unprovable to the general bystander.

At this point it does seem that Volvo are slowly but certainly going with MCV for all its UK products

 

[tramboy]

Has anyone heard any updates on the two Yutong U11DD buses ordered by Newport Transport in Nov 2022?

Newport Transport orders two Yutong U11DD ’deckers - routeone

Newport Transport has become the first UK customer to commit to the Yutong battery-electric double-decker, now known as the U11DD.

www.route-one.net

My understanding is that they are in transit to the UK.

 

[Edvid]

Found a Wrightbus comparison photo on Facebook - there's a standard (I presume) Streetdeck next to a low-height version, and a pair of GB Kites with original and TfL-spec front ends.

Direct photo link

 

[Volvodart]

Stagecoach in Scotland is the launch customer for the Enviro100EV.

20 Alexander Dennis Enviro100EV headed for launch customer Stagecoach | Alexander Dennis

Alexander Dennis, a subsidiary of NFI Group Inc., one of the world’s leading independent global bus manufacturers, today confirmed Stagecoach as the launch customer for its recently-launched Enviro100EV small zero-emission bus. The purchase has been supported by the Scottish Zero-Emission Bus...

www.alexander-dennis.com

Alexander Dennis, a subsidiary of NFI Group Inc., one of the world’s leading independent global bus manufacturers, today confirmed Stagecoach as the launch customer for its recently-launched Enviro100EV small zero-emission bus. The purchase has been supported by the Scottish Zero-Emission Bus Challenge Fund (ScotZEB).

The Enviro100EV was unveiled earlier this month as part of the manufacturer’s next generation of battery-electric buses. Highly manoeuvrable at just 8.5m length and 2.35m width, the Enviro100EV seats up to 25 passengers in the same comfort and style as larger buses with a bright and spacious interior and generous 2+2 seating.

Powered by the Voith Electrical Drive System, the energy stored in its 354kWh batteries gives it a class-leading range of up to 285 miles, making it a versatile performer even on longer, rural routes.

The battery system was developed for Alexander Dennis by its partner Impact Clean Power Technology. Particular attention has been paid to making it future-proof by allowing easy battery replacement with newer batteries in later life without a need for vehicle modifications.

Stagecoach placed its order for 20 Enviro100EV ahead of the type’s launch and production is now under way with deliveries expected in the first half of 2024. The purchase has been supported by the Scottish Government’s ScotZEB challenge fund and the vehicles are expected to be allocated to operating companies in Scotland.

“We are sure they will establish themselves as a long-serving staple of the Stagecoach fleet”

Sam Greer, Chief Operating Officer for Stagecoach, said: “Acquiring the new Enviro100EV reaffirms our commitment to our customers experience while also bringing us a step closer to realising our goal of being fully Net Zero by 2050. As a part of the fabric of daily life in the UK, we will continue to build on our work to tackle climate change and become more energy efficient. Having been involved with these battery-electric buses from the concept phase, we are sure they will establish themselves as a long-serving staple of the Stagecoach fleet.”

Paul Davies, Alexander Dennis President & Managing Director, said: “We’re delighted to have Stagecoach on board as the launch customer for our Enviro100EV ‘big small bus’. We really valued their input as we worked closely with them through the concept phase. These next-generation electric buses will be versatile assets for Stagecoach, their expansive range and diminutive road footprint making them equally suited to narrow town streets as winding country lanes.

“Our engineers have pulled out the Top Trump card once again”

“It’s a significant technical challenge packaging 354kWh of battery capacity and up to 285 miles of range into such a small vehicle but our engineers have pulled out the Top Trump card once again. The Enviro100EV is best-in-class by some distance and with its future-proof battery system and the next generation of aftermarket support from AD24, this new fleet of small buses is destined to enjoy long, productive working lives in the Stagecoach fleet.”

 

[overthewater]

I take it Glenrothes will be getting these? Mind you two due for the AB1?

 

[RacsoMoquette]

Speaking of new bus designs, has the been any further information regarding if any of the Switch E1 electric vehicles are being ordered for any UK bus operators? As it has been pretty silent since the launch of the type in 2021/2022.

 

[Dfatcontroller]

I take it Glenrothes will be getting these? Mind you two due for the AB1?

Ayr are to receive 3 and Kilmarnock 9.
i don't know where the other 12 are to go.

I thought the AB1 was only supposed to get one?

 

[cnjb8]

Ayr are to receive 3 and Kilmarnock 9.
i don't know where the other 12 are to go.

I thought the AB1 was only supposed to get one?

Apparently Glenrothes

 

[Edvid]

Speaking of new bus designs, has the been any further information regarding if any of the Switch E1 electric vehicles are being ordered for any UK bus operators?

It was designed as a left-hand drive vehicle (for the mainland European market), so no.

 

[MotCO]

It was designed as a left-hand drive vehicle (for the mainland European market), so no.

Have any orders been placed for the left hand drive version?

 

[Edvid]

Don't think so. I've not found any such press releases from Switch or any prospective customers.

 

[Mikey C]

Have Switch actually made any buses in their Spanish factory yet?

 

[RacsoMoquette]

In late 2021/2022 Switch surveyed possible assessments of the vehicles to suit the UK market, however since that announcement by Swich it has been ominously silent regarding that bus type.

 

[MasterSpenny]

In late 2021/2022 Switch surveyed possible assessments of the vehicles to suit the UK market, however since that announcement by Swich it has been ominously silent regarding that bus type.

So that might explain why the only new buses being built for the UK are the MetroCities (such as the batch on London route 339, which started operating earlier this year)

 

[Dfatcontroller]

So that might explain why the only new buses being built for the UK are the MetroCities (such as the batch on London route 339, which started operating earlier this year)

and a batch of diesel Solos for Stagecoach.

 

[CSB0241]

I take it Glenrothes will be getting these? Mind you two due for the AB1?

Ayr are to receive 3 and Kilmarnock 9.
i don't know where the other 12 are to go.

I thought the AB1 was only supposed to get one?

Apparently Glenrothes

1. I thought that they were gonna get 4 to completely replace all the Enviro200AVs? Am I mistaken?
2. What services are most likely to get them? 37 maybe?

 

[GusB]

1. I thought that they were gonna get 4 to completely replace all the Enviro200AVs? Am I mistaken?
2. What services are most likely to get them? 37 maybe?

Until it is actually known where these buses will be allocated, it's best not to speculate too much at this stage. Such questions would be more appropriate in the individual operator threads anyway.

 

[Dfatcontroller]

1. I thought that they were gonna get 4 to completely replace all the Enviro200AVs? Am I mistaken?
2. What services are most likely to get them? 37 maybe?

The original press release regarding the extension of the service to Dunfermline stated that one bus would be purchased to facilitate the increased PVR.
Does the AB1 not currently run less frequently than originally planned though? Would think they have enough just now.

 

[YorkRailFan]

Alexander Dennis, a subsidiary of NFI Group Inc., one of the world’s leading independent global bus manufacturers, today announced that it will supply Enviro500 double-deck buses to Spokane Transit Authority (STA) following an order for seven vehicles.

The Alexander Dennis Enviro500 will be the first double-deck transit buses in Spokane, Washington and its surrounding urban areas.

They will serve Spokane Transit’s Cheney service, made up of two primary routes numbered 6 and 66. These link Eastern Washington University, the West Plains Transit Center which is a major hub for connections to job sites in that area including a large Amazon Fulfillment Center, downtown Spokane and the University District near downtown Spokane.

With a combined average weekday ridership of 1,900 daily boardings, the two routes will benefit strongly from the Enviro500’s design which allows 84 seats to be fitted across the two floors while providing level boarding and easy access for all passengers including those using wheelchairs.

The buses will be built in the United States as part of the recently announced partnership between Alexander Dennis and Big Rig Manufacturing and are expected to be delivered in 2025. They will be supported in operation by Alexander Dennis’s own staff as well as through the wider NFI Parts organisation.

“Spokane Transit is thrilled to add the iconic double deckers to our fleet”

“Spokane Transit is thrilled to add the iconic double deckers to our fleet,” said STA CEO E. Susan Meyer. “These new buses along with Eagle Station and Four Lakes Station, complete the Cheney Line investments promised in STA Moving Forward, the organization’s current 10-year plan.”

Stephen Walsh, Alexander Dennis Vice-President North America, said: “We’re delighted to add Spokane Transit to the roster of transit agencies that value the benefits of double-deck buses including their unrivalled passenger capacity on a compact road footprint. Commuters will enjoy great views from the top deck and a comfortable ride, taking public transportation to a new level.”

Alexander Dennis introduced double-deck transit buses to the North American market in 2000 and has delivered over 1,200 Enviro500 since then.Forward-looking statements
This press release may contain forward-looking statements relating to expected future events and financial and operating results of Alexander Dennis and NFI Group that involve risks and uncertainties. Although the forward-looking statements contained in this press release are based upon what management believes to be reasonable assumptions, investors cannot be assured that actual results will be consistent with these forward-looking statements, and the differences may be material. Actual results may differ materially from management expectations as projected in such forward-looking statements for a variety of reasons, including market and general economic conditions and economic conditions of and funding availability for customers to purchase buses and to purchase parts or services; customers may not exercise options to purchase additional buses; the ability of customers to suspend or terminate contracts for convenience; production may be delayed or production rates may be decreased as a result of the pandemic or ongoing and future supply chain disruptions and shortages of parts and components, shipping and freight delays, and disruption to labor supply; risks related to reliance on third-party manufacturers of Alexander Dennis’ products; and the other risks and uncertainties discussed in the materials filed with the Canadian securities regulatory authorities and available on SEDAR at www.sedarplus.ca.

Due to the potential impact of these factors, the NFI Group disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, unless required by applicable law.

Seven Alexander Dennis Enviro500 on order as Spokane Transit buys first double deckers | Alexander Dennis

Alexander Dennis, a subsidiary of NFI Group Inc., one of the world’s leading independent global bus manufacturers, today announced that it will supply Enviro500 double-deck buses to Spokane Transit Authority (STA) following an order for seven vehicles. The Alexander Dennis Enviro500 will be the...

www.alexander-dennis.com

Alexander Dennis has had quite a bit of success in Canada, especially Toronto, so it's nice for the US to get involved.

 

[PG]

Seven Alexander Dennis Enviro500 on order as Spokane Transit buys first double deckers | Alexander Dennis

Alexander Dennis, a subsidiary of NFI Group Inc., one of the world’s leading independent global bus manufacturers, today announced that it will supply Enviro500 double-deck buses to Spokane Transit Authority (STA) following an order for seven vehicles. The Alexander Dennis Enviro500 will be the...

www.alexander-dennis.com

More orders for Alexander Dennis from a Hong Kong company, they only had one last month. Looks like Alexander Dennis is going to be a go to for Hong Kong bus operators.

Unless I'm being particularly dense, the order you linked to refers to 7 deckers for the USA and not Hong Kong.

 

[YorkRailFan]

Unless I'm being particularly dense, the order you linked to refers to 7 deckers for the USA and not Hong Kong.

Yes sorry, will edit, it's been a long day.

 

[GusB]

Things aren't looking so good at Alexander Dennis.

Bus manufacturer workers begin two-week strike amid pay dispute

Unite said around 400 members will join the strike action after they voted to reject a real terms wage cut.

news.stv.tv

Hundreds of workers at a bus and coach manufacturing company have walked out amid an escalating dispute over pay.

Unite said that around 400 union members at Alexander Dennis Limited (ADL) will go on strike for two weeks after voting to reject pay offers under 5% for 2023 and 2024, which they said represents a real terms pay cut.

The union said members demonstrated their frustration over the company’s failure to make a fair pay offer by recording an 81.3% yes vote in favour of industrial action on a 72% turnout.

The union represents coach builders and spray painters at the Camelon factory in Falkirk.