Lochs Motor Transport is among the first operators to place an order for the Volvo B13R with UNVI XL bodywork, with customer deliveries of the new coach expected from summer 2026.
The model was announced by Volvo Bus UK and Ireland earlier in 2025. It is tailored to UK and Irish market needs and is marketed as a premium vehicle, with a 500bhp D13K engine within the 12.8m, two-axle configuration.
Following operator feedback, the standard PSVAR compliant version will be complemented by a PSVAR ready alternative. A camera monitoring system in place of conventional mirrors is now also offered as an option.
The first Volvo B13R UNVI XL will be assembled over coming months ahead of testing and evaluation starting in late autumn. Volvo Bus UK and Ireland Product Director Josef Gisslow says the manufacturer has “been bowled over” by the interest shown in the new coach.
“It has exceeded all expectations at such an early stage in the project, and it is exciting to see so many operators sharing our vision for the new model, and in our partnership with UNVI,” he adds.
Lochs Motor Transport is based on the Isle of Lewis. Managing Director Roddy Macdonald says that the B13R UNVI on order will serve as a frontline touring coach.
“It will be doing a variety of work from cruise ship contracts to taking school trips and pipe bands onto the mainland, as well as private hire work for some of our high-end clients who demand the best,” continues Mr Macdonald.
“We wanted the 13-litre engine as it will spend most of its time at full capacity, plus at 12.8m long it keeps us from crossing over into the more expensive ferry categories for vehicles over 13m.”
Smaller UNVI-bodied products are already within the Lochs Motor Transport fleet and Mr Macdonald says the build quality of those is excellent. “When you are based on an island in the Outer Hebrides, you have to have absolute confidence in the products you operate. For us, the Volvo and UNVI partnership is a meeting of two very trusted brands.”
Volvo Bus UK and Ireland Managing Director Domenico Bondi has welcomed the first confirmed customers for the B13R UNVI and notes how the deal with Lochs Motor Transport is testament to a longstanding relationship between the two businesses.
“The Volvo B13R chassis offers fantastic fuel efficiency to enhance the total cost of ownership for operators,” continues Mr Bondi. At the time of the B13R’s launch, Volvo said it would deliver a 9% reduction in diesel consumption compared to the outgoing B11R.
“When coupled to the UNVI platform, we are confident that it will deliver the perfect combination of durability and comfort for long-range routes.”
