The weather was kind when Irizar UK invited current and prospective customers to its i-Drive event at Corby, with the object of having fun
Almost 200 people had a grand day out thanks to Irizar UK, when it hosted its second i-Drive event at the Rockingham race circuit, on part of the site of the former Corby steelworks in Northamptonshire.
With current and prospective customers invited, the aim of the event, says Irizar UK Business Development Director Julie Hartley, “is a relaxed day out.”
To ensure this was the case, Irizar had taken over the entire circuit, comprising an outer banked race track, inner tightly-turning track – used for events such as Touring Car racing – plus a wet circuit and a stunt area, where displays of motorbikes and go-karts were made.
Also, visitors could bring their own performance cars to drive around the track, which many did, or ride as a passenger in one of the cars provided.
Midday saw a hog roast lunch, alongside catering all day, at the free-to-attend event.
Naturally, Irizar brought examples of its now extensive coach range, with three models, i4, i6 and i8, now available in a variety of lengths and specifications.
Many were available to drive around the track, as were a DAF rigid truck and a DAF tractor cab.
Of particular interest was the newly launched i4 hybrid, which was available to drive and ride, and received a ‘thumbs up’ from those who did.
Also on display was some of minibus convertor EVM’s extensive range. “We’ve partnered with EVM as a sponsor as there’s a nice synergy between us,” says Julie. “EVM do quality conversions and it adds a new dimension to the event.”
EVM’s products were also available to ride and drive in, and an eye-catching conversion was its new low-floor Sprinter conversion, aimed at the small bus market and seating up to 18, including seats in the low floor area.
There were other celebrations too.
Basildon-based Peter Godward, of the operator of the same name, took delivery of an i6 – the 300th Irizar integral to be delivered in the UK – while Whitestar Coaches of Glasgow had travelled to the Midlands to collect its 70-seater i4.
Irizar UK Director Steve O’Neil was keen to point out other highlights, including an i8 team coach for National Express-owned The King’s Ferry – one of a batch of three. With full kitchen facilities amidships, it has been converted by AD Coach Systems.
Also on display was an i8 for Ellison’s – the first i8 with a wheelchair lift. It is mounted over the rear axle on this coach, which is expected to spend much of its time on cruise ship transfers.
The event received widespread trade support, with event sponsors including EVM, routeone, MasterPart, Mistral, Crystal Business Finance, John Hill Coach Sales, Prime Passenger Seating, Alcolock UK, Airconco, Coach & Bus UK 2017 and AD Coach Systems.
With good weather and plenty to do, Irizar achieved its aim of a fun day out for its customers.
