As the second anniversary of the UK launch of the Volvo B11R/Jonckheere JHV2 approaches, Volvo Bus is predicting another strong sales performance next year for this premium coach combination in the UK and Ireland.
With sales of the high-specification coach set to continue on an upward trend, Volvo has confirmed it will be placing an order for at least 50 coaches for the 2019 season, as production of the bodywork moves from VDL’s Roeselare, Belgium, factory to its Valkenswaard plant, Eindhoven, The Netherlands.
VDL Jonckheere MD Peter Wouters says: “Our relationship with Volvo dates back 25 years and it is a partnership that has been built on product quality and customer support.
“That remains unchanged with the relocation of coach production to Valkenswaard, especially given that quality inspection will continue to be based at our Roeselare factory.”
Adds Volvo Retail Sales Director James Hyde: “The introduction of the JHV2 was the result of a great deal of innovation, investment, and commitment from Jonckheere, working in close partnership with ourselves.
“The vehicle’s external styling and high levels of interior appointment and comfort, together with the safety, performance and operating efficiency of the Euro 6 Volvo B11R chassis continues to hit all the right notes with many operators in the premium touring market.
“We envisage further strong demand for next season, as the JHV2 continues to be an important part of our coach portfolio in the UK and Ireland.”
Making its debut at Euro Bus Expo in late 2016, more than 100 Volvo B11R/JHV2s have entered service. A distinctive and increasingly familiar sight on roads across the country, the new model has continued the success of the Volvo/Jonckheere partnership, further adding to the approximately 2,000 vehicles sold since 1993.
