The first Van Hool T-range coach to be completed in Leger Luxuria format has been delivered to Staffordshire operator Johnston Coaches.
It is a T17 Astron equipped with seats that are to a 2+1 layout and completed with cream leather. Multiple tables are fitted along with a large centre kitchen, and each traveller gets a personal entertainment system.
Arrival of the Van Hool continues a period of fleet investment by Johnston Coaches that has seen it take delivery of multiple new vehicles since March 2024. The business advises that more are to follow as part of a long-term strategy to provide customers and clients with one of the most modern fleets in the region.
The new coach will be based out of Johnson Coaches’ depot in Stoke-on-Trent. It is the first Luxuria example for the operator. Operations Manager Shaun Lynch advises that choice of Van Hool reflects the fleet flagship nature of the vehicle.
“Being awarded a contract of this magnitude by a client that we have worked closely with over the past few years is a privilege,” he says. “As the relationship has grown, so has Leger’s confidence in us, and we wanted to reciprocate that trust by investing in what we believe is one of the finest touring coaches available.”
A regular husband and wife crew of Jon and Annemarie King have been entrusted with the Van Hool for Leger Luxuria work. Mr Lynch notes how they “consistently get fantastic scores on their tours,” with the new arrival quickly working a departure to Spain after delivery.
Leger notes that to suit Luxuria use, coaches must have a flat floor to permit the offset gangway that comes as a result of the 2+1 seating layout. A length of 14m length is also required to meet legroom requirement, a spokesperson adds.
“We do not limit suppliers to a specific type of vehicle as ultimately it is their business decision, but we take a collaborative approach as we want to ensure that Luxuria continues to be an iconic touring vehicle,” they continue.
Power in the Van Hool for Johnston Coaches is from the DAF MX-13 engine developing 530bhp coupled to an Allison T525R six-speed automatic gearbox.
