Irizar has announced further updates to its i6S Efficient integral and confirmed that the Efficient approach to reducing fuel consumption and emissions will expand to other members of its coach range, starting with the i8 in 2024.
Work on the i6S Efficient integral second generation coincides with updates required to meet the EU General Safety Regulation (GSR) and cybersecurity requirements. In addition, updated DAF MX-11 and MX-13 engines will be introduced at the same time.
DAF says that the latest units each come with a new cylinder head and block, optimised combustion, redesigned pistons and cylinder liners, and more. Maximum torque has been increased by between 50 and 150Nm and it is understood that the new engines are lighter than their predecessors. Differential ratios have been tweaked to account for that additional torque output.
When all work on the i6S Efficient integral is combined, Irizar says it will deliver a further 5% reduction on baseline fuel consumption compared to the existing model. The coach will also come with a new dash area with a revised steering wheel and digital binnacle, including an option to select ‘night mode’.
The next generation i6S Efficient integral will enter build in April 2024 in readiness for GSR. Irizar also recently revealed the prototype zero-emission i6S Efficient Hydrogen, which uses power from a fuel cell, although production for that model is further away.
Launch of the i8 Efficient will come in Mexico, recognising the model’s popularity there. As with the i6S Efficient when it debuted in 2022, the i8 Efficient will be available in both integral and body-on-chassis format.
Irizar notes that the i8 already has a rear-view camera option, but availability of further details around the Efficient package for it is awaited. No exact figure on weight reduction is to hand, but the Spanish OEM says that it will be at least 500kg. Some changes to optimise airflow around and under the coach are also expected.
