Midlands Bus and Coach Sales will handle supply; new model on DAF LF chassis to be launched at EBE
Midlands Bus and Coach Sales (MBCS), based in Tamworth, has been named as the UK agent for the Turas range of small coaches by Irish importer Brian Noone.
MBCS is owned by Andy Garratt, who is also a director of Solus Coaches. Stock examples of the Turas range, which is built on the Mercedes-Benz Atego and Sprinter and Iveco Daily chassis, will be held at Tamworth.
MBCS also has access to Brian Noone’s stock in Dublin and to vehicles in production.
Customised options, too
In addition, UK customers retain the ability to order customised mini and midicoaches from the Turas range via MBCS.
“We are delighted to announce this partnership and we are excited about future opportunities to build the Turas brand and market presence,” says Mark Noone, Director of Brian Noone Ltd.
MBCS will hold fast-moving parts for the Turas range in Tamworth, but Brian Noone has taken the decision to manage all other support from its Dublin head office. There, it has an extensive parts holding, and components will be shipped to the UK via courier, says Mr Noone.
DAF-based midi at EBE
Mr Noone adds that future additions to the Turas range are already being explored. At Euro Bus Expo the importer will unveil the Turas 900s, a midicoach based on the front-engined DAF LF chassis that seats up to 37 passengers.
Available in standard- and long-wheelbase form, the Turas 900s has a GVW of 10,500kg. It is powered by a 4.5-litre Paccar PX-5 engine rated at 210bhp that drives through either a manual or an automated gearbox, both with six speeds.
“In the Turas 900s we have retained the direct access to the driver’s seat that is seen on the Atego-based 900. The order book is open for the DAF-based midicoach; it will enter production from December and be available for delivery from Q1 2019,” adds Mr Noone.
