Atego-based model to arrive first but MAN to be an option; strong sales of smaller coaches
The first example of the Ilesbus Calista midicoach will arrive with South Wales-based dealership Ilesbus UK by the end of August as it reports that 44 examples of its smaller Mercedes-Benz Sprinter- and Iveco Daily-based vehicles have been sold in less than a year.
Ilesbus UK will offer the Calista on the MAN TGL and the Mercedes-Benz Atego chassis, both with gross weights of 12,000kg.
The first to come here will be built on an Atego, says Director Gary Johns. In that configuration the Calista has all-round air suspension and is powered by the six-cylinder OM 936 engine. The entrance is ahead of the front axle with both chassis and accessible options will be offered.
“There are three interior layouts: 32 seats with a toilet and 35 without, while an accessible model will be created by adding a door on the nearside and installing a flat gangway.”
Additionally, Ilesbus is soon to add a third Sprinter-based minicoach conversion. It will be a top-of-the-range model and complement the existing Harmony and Renaissance products. Ilesbus’ coachbuilt Daily-based midi is also proving popular, adds Mr Johns.
The initial Calista will act as a demonstrator. “The best way to help operators to understand a product is for them to see it. They also benefit from knowing about the service that we provide. We have a mobile unit that attends to body-related issues on customers’ premises.”
Further news relating to developments at Ilesbus UK will be announced soon, he continues. At Coach & Bus UK the importer will show a Calista built on an Atego chassis, two Sprinter minicoaches and one on a Daily underframe.
