With three products launched in two years, including the Volvo 9700, 9900 and MCV, Volvo says it has the market covered
Volvo Buses demonstrated two products at Coach & Bus UK. On its stand was the MCV EvoTor, which was launched last year, and the new Volvo 9700, anticipated for the UK market in the near future, was in the Vehicle Display.
The first of EvoTor’s updates includes more Volvo branding to capitalise on the firm’s reputation – the Iron Mark features prominently on the centre of the dash. A redesigned engine cover is hinged for better safety and improved aesthetics on its front passenger door give drivers a curb view. Following customer feedback, the entrance gangway has been widened by 40mm with no effect on seat pitch. Volvo’s automated I-shift transmission is still used, now with push-button command.
James Hyde, Retail Sales Director for Volvo Buses UK & Ireland, says MCV’s willingness to listen and act on feedback is testament to their serious approach to the coach market.
In the Vehicle Display Area was the 9700, also built on the B11R chassis, a left-hand drive (LHD) variant from France. A stablemate to the upmarket 9900, which was launched at Euro Bus Expo in 2018, the 9700 is part of what Volvo Buses describes as 
the biggest renewal of its European coach range in decades.
Price for the UK variant, which is envisaged to go into production next year, is still to be determined, says Mr Hyde. A left-hand drive variant to UK market specification is expected in the first quarter next year, which will be demonstrated to UK customers. It will have alloy wheels as standard, and three choices of seats built under license by Kiel. All will have real leather and three-point seat belts.
“We continue to invest,” explains Mr Hyde. “New products launched in the last two years include the EvoTor, the 9900, and the 9700. To have three new models in two years is unprecedented. By demonstrating the new products, and working with six bodybuilders, we have every base covered.”
