Mellor makes a splash with a double debut at Euro Bus Expo 2018 as two all-new versions of successful Strata minibus were revealed in Plus and Ultra variants, which now offer higher capacities of up to 30 passengers.
The Strata Plus and Strata Ultra were unveiled at the NEC and they follow the success of Strata, which Mellor developed to be ‘the UK’s small bus of choice’.
The new models combine the rigorously tested Mellor coachbuilt body and low frame conversion with the proven Mercedes Benz Sprinter chassis and drivetrain. They also have the Strata’s class leading fuel economy and low cost of ownership, the manufacturer says.
The innovative low-floor saloon easily accommodates wheelchair or buggy users, while creating accessible and spacious seating areas.
Strata Plus immediately benefits from Low Emission Bus (LEB) accreditation, further reducing operating costs. It is anticipated that LEB accreditation of the Strata Ultra will follow in early 2019. Operators also receive a comprehensive three-year warranty from Mellor.
Both models have extended wheelbases and body lengths and are on the new Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 907. The Strata Plus is 8.1m long and the Ultra is 8.8m. They have accessible low floor single-step entry and are the same width as the original Strata.
Strata Plus and Strata Ultra accommodate 26 and 30 passengers respectively, giving operators the opportunity to increase vehicle-carrying capacity while still enjoying the efficiencies, economies and advantages delivered by a small bus.
Mellor Managing Director John Randerson says: “We actively encourage the engagement of our sales and engineering teams with our customers to ensure vehicles are tailored to meet their requirements.” An array of features are available including destination signage, interactive next stop audio-visual displays, climate control, wi-fi and USB ports.
Highly customisable, they also come with a range of options to meet varying accessibility and executive demands. Choices of seats, interior trim and designs are available across the range.
Mellor says that the Strata Plus and Ultra ‘exemplify its commitment to the small bus sector, and its belief that bus services can be provided cost-effectively’. Mr Randerson adds: “We invested extensively during the Strata’s initial development phase.
“This has been justified since its introduction with excellent customer feedback and significant numbers of vehicles already delivered and in service. As part of our growth strategy and as a result of customer requests, we challenged ourselves further, to provide a higher carrying capacity on what is acknowledged to be an excellent platform.”
