Neoplan Tourliner to be joined by fifth Barbi Galileo thanks to operator’s uncertainty over retrofit
MAN will be 2019’s order of the day for Runcorn operator Anthony’s Travel after it completed deals for two coaches from the German manufacturer.
A 12.2m Neoplan Tourliner P21 supplied by MAN Bus and Coach will be joined by Anthony’s fifth Barbi Galileo-bodied RR2, which will come from established partner BASE Coach Sales.Managing Partner Richard Bamber says a number of reasons are behind the purchase of two further new coaches.
“With the greater emphasis on Euro 6, the fluctuating residual value of Euro 4 and Euro 5 vehicles and uncertainty surrounding the reliability of exhaust retrofit systems along with the high cost of the equipment, it made better long-term sense to continue to upgrade our fleet,” he says.
Mr Bamber adds that a buyer’s market means that some good deals on new coaches can be had at present. Anthony’s relationship with MAN was also key, he says.
“We did consider other manufacturers, but we have a great relationship with MAN and BASE that stretches back over 14 years. Both parties understand my company and our business ethos, and they are a pleasure to deal with.” Anthony’s was one of the launch customers for the original Tourliner. 2019’s Barbi, meanwhile, will be to sports team specification.
“The Galileo is not a mass-produced coach, but it a bespoke build and thus is an ideal vehicle if a top-quality product is required that stands out from the crowd.”