OC500RF addresses market segment that Tourismo cannot; front lift planned to suit scheduled services
EvoBus (UK) displayed a Mercedes-Benz OC500RF chassis at EBE, with the dealership promising that when bodied, it will offer an accessible solution that the Tourismo cannot.
An extended front overhang is the most important part of the OC500RF. EvoBus (UK) is currently finalising an agreement with a bodybuilder for a product that allows rapid loading of wheelchair users via the front door in high-floor single-deck layout and – possibly – overdeck format.
That coach will initially be offered in 14m, tri-axle form but EvoBus does not rule out adding a two-axle version later.
“The OC500RF is manufactured at our plant in Sámano in Spain. The key to being able to offer different versions is its modular construction,” says Ian Wallace, Senior Manager Bus, Minibus and Chassis Sales.
“For a two-axle layout, a module is removed. To offer a different engine, a different one is swapped. Additionally, the front module can sit at different heights, allowing for both a high- and low-driver configuration,” he continues.
The first right-hand drive chassis has a 10.7-litre OM 470 engine developing 460bhp coupled to a Powershift 3 automated manual gearbox. A 450-litre diesel tank is fitted.
Independent front suspension is standard, as is a coolant pre-heater. The Sámano plant also prepares the chassis for addition of an air-conditioning compressor, while positioning of components at the rear is optimised to allow maximum headroom throughout the saloon.
“Sámano is very customer-focused and our priority has been to make the bodybuilder’s life as easy as possible,” says Mr Wallace.
The completed coach will debut in 2019.
