Around 100 Panthers to be delivered this year as new LE and Panorama models make debuts at EBE
Both the Panorama double-decker and the Panther LE low-entry coach were displayed by Plaxton as the Scarborough manufacturer prepares to record its strongest performance under Alexander Dennis (ADL) ownership.
But the Panther high-floor came in for the greatest praise from ADL CEO Colin Robertson, who describes 2018 as being the mid-range model’s best year yet.
“We expect to deliver around 100 Panthers in 2018,” adds Plaxton Commercial Manager Mark Ballam. “Our market share has grown, driven by retail sales. Particularly pleasing is our success with conquest customers. We are confident that will continue into 2019.”
The Panther has seen particular success on the Volvo B8R chassis. In 12.8m form, it offers a capacity of up to 61. When combined with availability from stock, that has driven momentum, says Mr Ballam.
Retail interest has also been generated by the Panorama. The first for a retail buyer will go to Acklams Coaches of Beverley. Another has been sold to an Irish customer.
The Acklams example seats 87 with a toilet and a servery. It has one primary wheelchair user space by the centre door, but every seat in the lower saloon is tracked, allowing several others to be carried.
“Flexibility is key to the Panorama. Wheelchair users can board at either door, and that along with large luggage racks downstairs and overall passenger space was important to Acklams,” says General Manager Coach Sales Simon Wood.
Plaxton’s Panorama demonstrator will be available in Q1 2019 and operators are “queuing up” to try it, adds Mr Wood.
