Golden Boy Coaches is the first UK operator to place an order for an Irizar i6S Efficient integral. The i6S Efficient line-up, which the manufacturer claims will deliver a like-for-like reduction in fuel consumption of up to 13%, was launched earlier in May. The integral example for Golden Boy will be a 13.2m tri-axle with 53 seats and it will be PSVAR compliant ex-factory.
The Hoddesdon operator will take delivery of the i6S Efficient integral in the autumn. It takes to 16 the number of Irizar integral coaches purchased by the Hertfordshire business since 2014. The new coach will have a Euro VI step E DAF MX-11 engine developing 450bhp driving through a ZF EcoLife automatic gearbox.
Director Paul Murdoch says: “We chose Irizar again this season as we feel it represents value for money with a good residual return. We will also benefit from the anticipated efficiency of the new model, and any saving on fuel is always welcome.”
The i6S Efficient integral has been specified with rear-view cameras in place of conventional mirrors. Mr Murdoch adds that Golden Boy was attracted by the promised contribution to improved fuel economy that comes from the lack of mirror arms. While he notes that such a change alters the look of the coach, “in a year or two it will be the norm, and it will hopefully eliminate driver errors that damage mirrors.”
Adds Irizar UK Sales Director Julie Hartley: “I am delighted that we have been able to continue the tradition with Golden Boy Coaches in taking our newly launched models.
“The innovation that we see with the new i6S Efficient will no doubt reap benefits for the operator in terms of improved fuel consumption and increased service intervals, which in turn will assist in reduced total cost of ownership and a maximisation of profit.”
Irizar has made wholesale changes to deliver the i6S Efficient, which reduce aerodynamic coefficient by 30% and weight by 900kg compared to the standard i6S range.
