Arriva has introduced a fleet of 30 new MCV Evora-bodied Volvo B8RLEs for its Luton Busway network.
They represent what the operator says is a transformational upgrade for the corridor, which serves Dunstable, Houghton Regis, Luton and Luton Airport. The buses are the fruits of a £9.7 million investment and they follow improvements made to Busway services on 1 June.
Arrival of the new fleet follows earlier purchases of the B8RLE Evora combination for Arriva’s Bedfordshire and Buckinghamshire fleet and other parts of the group’s operations in England and Wales.
Such a level of investment in Luton reflects what Arriva says is its “ongoing commitment to better, more reliable local bus services, with a focus on frequent, accessible transport that connects people and the places they need to travel to.”
It adds that the new buses have been designed to major on passenger experience, with those flying from the airport and travelling for work or study considered.
The vehicles will see round-the-clock usage on some Luton Busway routes, with the recent service changes by Arriva having given some areas direct links to the segregated bus-only road and improved airport links to the airport.
Speaking about the changes, Network Manager Matt King says: “This investment is about more than just new buses. It is also about raising the standard of public transport for everyone who lives, works or travels in and around Luton.
“We have listened to our passengers and shaped the new buses, routes and timetables around what they told us the need. With frequent services, comfortable seats and direct links, we want taking the bus to feel like the natural choice over the car, which is better value for money and better for the planet.”
Luton Airport Surface Access Development Manager Andy Martin adds that the air travel hub anticipates continuing to work closely with bus operators to further expand and improve services for staff and visitors.
