With a range of what it says are “industry-leading leasing packages” and a full-size coach line-up to suit every operating requirement, Irizar UK used the show to reveal the latest developments in its coach range.
On display for the first time at the show was the new i6S integral luxury coach, bringing levels of comfort and sophistication previously only found in the Spanish manufacturer’s tri-axle i8 integral flagship to the two-axle market.
Major changes over its i6 integral stablemate, which remains in production, include a restyled aerodynamic body incorporating LED lighting inside and out, and luxury passenger seating with a wide range of options.
Technically, the i6S has a fully multiplexed wiring system, from the i8, and the driver enjoys a revised cockpit area with a new instrument panel, which can include a HMI screen. This offers touchscreen and joystick control over all vehicle systems, in addition to sat-nav.
Irizar’s flagship tri-axle i8 Integral coach can now be specified with a wheelchair lift: opening a new world of luxury travel to people with restricted mobility.
Irizar (UK)’s managing director Steve O’Neil, said: “We have had requests from operators serving specialist customers such as cruise lines for a vehicle which combined absolute luxury with accessibility.
“We have engineered the new Masats KS8 underfloor lift to neatly fit over the rear axles. At the same time, we have developed a solution that allows the WC to be repositioned to the rear of the coach, which liberates even more luggage space.”
Also on display for the first time at the show was Irizar’s new i4H, bringing fuel-saving hybrid driveline technology to the commuter coach market in a UK first.
The driveline combines a HVO bio-fuel capable Cummins ISBe 6.7-litre engine with an advanced Eaton PHP hybrid transmission, incorporating an electric inverter and traction motor-generator, together with a conventional six-speed automated manual gearbox. The result is up to 20% fuel savings in mixed ‘real-life’ conditions, where relatively high-speed running on major roads is interspersed with stop-start urban traffic, says Irizar.
Outside, Irizar’s UK-spec 10.85m electric bus made its debut, providing demonstration runs (see separate story).
