Wrightbus sees UK sales opportunity for its new tri-axle zero-emission StreetDeck double-deck bus platform in addition to core Far Eastern markets for that class of vehicle, it says.
That was noted by CEO Jean-Marc Gales (pictured) when debuting prototype examples of the 6×2 bus that it says are “simultaneously” coming off production lines in Northern Ireland and Malaysia. The manufacturer adds that orders are “already lined up” for the product in Europe and the Far East.
Mr Gales adds that Wrightbus has worked “round the clock for the last two years” to develop the StreetDeck in tri-axle zero-emission format.
It has a driven third axle and a second axle ahead of that which in a notable specification can be fixed or steered. When combined with what Wrightbus claims is battery placement that will not compromise passenger capacity, that “is a real triumph for our engineers,” Mr Gales adds.
Efficiency and durability testing will be completed this summer and a demonstrator will be shipped to an operator in Hong Kong for a 12-month period. Beyond Hong Kong and the UK, the manufacturer sees opportunities for the tri-axle StreetDeck in Australia, New Zealand and Singapore, it says.
“We are building momentum not just in our home territories but overseas as well, as news of our brand reaches all corners of the globe,” continues Mr Gales.
“We are the leading manufacturer in zero-emission technology, and we have more than 100 hydrogen buses heading to Germany, as well as fleets of hydrogen and battery-electrics across the UK.
“Our 6×2 will be another important string to our bow, showing that Wrightbus – 80 years old next year – is at the very forefront of technology.”
Wrightbus has previously bodied 6×2 diesel chassis from other manufacturers for the Far East, but the tri-axle zero-emission StreetDeck is its first entirely in-house product in that size class. It also has a tri-axle hydrogen-powered coach in hand that is due to debut in 2026.
