Van Hool’s build quality and attitude to customer requirements secures deal with Kent operator
Gravesend-based DJ Coaches has continued the move to Euro 6 with the delivery of a pair of Van Hool Astromega TDX27 double-deckers as part of its continued fleet investment.
The two 85-seaters have been supplied by Arriva Bus and Coach, and they arrive at the same time as four Mercedes-Benz Tourismos.
The double-deckers will be used principally on European tour and ski work and they replace two similar Astromegas dating from 2014.
“We looked at other models, and received a quote for one of them, but I prefer to stick with what I know in Van Hool,” says Director Matt Blanks, who adds that the Belgian manufacturer’s build quality remains “second to none.”
Van Hool’s flexibility in terms of specification also ticked a major box and the coaches each have a ski box and a trailer for use when required. They are powered by the DAF MX-13 engine at its highest 510bhp rating coupled to the ZF AS-Tronic automated manual gearbox.
Delivery of the six new vehicles means that 22 members of DJ Coaches’ 27-strong fleet is now Euro 6. Mr Blanks adds that of the other five, he plans to retrofit three Mercedes-Benz Tourismos to achieve ULEZ compliance.
