Mellor has unveiled a restyled version of its Maxima accessible front-engined high-floor midibus, which is built on the Iveco Daily base vehicle.
It is the largest model in the Mellor range and accommodates up to 32 passengers or eight wheelchair users. That continues what the manufacturer says is a best-in-class capacity for the Maxima, which is popular with local authorities and healthcare trusts.
Multiple enhancements and new features have been added to the restyled Maxima. It sits on a 7,200kg GVW, General Safety Regulation 2 compliant chassis and is 8.5m long with a width of 2.3m and a height of 2.9m.
The front of the vehicle is reworked to deliver what Mellor says is “striking road presence” and the model comes with what is described as a bolder and more dynamic silhouette.
A composite body structure continues to minimise weight and assist in straightforward maintenance, while the batteries are now located at the nearside skirt to give better access for servicing.
Inside, added is what Mellor terms a ‘sky view’ windscreen. It eliminates the traditional cab header panel to increase internal headroom and allow natural light “to flood the saloon.” A brighter and more open interior that enhances the environment for all passengers regardless of accessibility needs is the result.
Within the entrance is an ergonomically curved stepwell. It improves comfort for passengers with limited mobility and creates a more open and inviting entrance space.
The door has been moved forward to align the driver’s eyeline with boarding passengers. That improves safety and enhances interaction without needing the driver to turn awkwardly and is particularly beneficial for overseeing vulnerable passengers, Mellor adds.
The cab is redesigned to give better visibility, comfort and alignment with a “contemporary exterior facelift,” the builder continues. Now offered is an optional camera mirror system.
Passengers benefit from new cove panels and a redesigned ceiling layout, custom-designed lighting extrusion from the new Strata LF range housing an updated LED system for enhanced comfort and energy efficiency, and a fully tracked flat floor for rapid layout reconfiguration.
The flooring material is slip-resistant while all steps have high-visibility edges. The 2+2 seating is configurable to support various use cases.
Mellor Head of Sales Richard Matthews says that changes made to the Maxima are built on feedback from operators and passengers.
“The new Maxima combines practical design with thoughtful features that enhance the driver and passenger experience – especially for those with additional accessibility needs – while providing operators with a cost-effective, durable solution.”
Orders for the new Maxima are currently being taken with deliveries to commence in Q4.
