The first DAF LF-based Noone Turas 900S midicoaches have entered service with UK operators. Carriageways of Cambridge and John Leask and Son of Lerwick (pictured) have each taken delivery of a 9.1m example with 33 seats.
The 10,000kg GVW, front-engined LF chassis is powered by a 4.5-litre Paccar PX-5 engine rated at 213bhp. In both midicoaches delivered so far it is coupled to a six-speed manual gearbox. A ZF automated manual transmission with the same number of ratios is offered as an option.
Additionally, dealer Midlands Bus and Coach Sales (MBCS) can supply the Turas 900S at 9.6m and seating 37 on a 12,000kg GVW LF chassis. It has both chassis variants available from stock via Brian Noone.
Passenger response to the Carriageways DAF has been good, says Director Dee Cooper. Carriageways chose the Dutch chassis to compare engine noise levels. Mrs Cooper says that with the DAF it has proved to be lower than on comparable models from other manufacturers.
“We are pleased with the vehicle and customers like it. Drivers do too,” she adds. In the time that Carriageways’ example has been in service it has recorded around 16mpg on motorway journeys.
MBCS reports that an LF-based Turas 900S demonstrator will enter service soon. It also says that the DAF chassis is proving attractive to other potential buyers. The alternative underframe, the Mercedes-Benz Atego, remains available.
