Mellor Coachcraft MD pays tribute to team effort that has also seen other new models unveiled, including Strata HF on Sprinter base; Orion E’s EV driveline suite for transfer to other models
Mellor Coachcraft’s “groundbreaking” 16-seat Orion E electric minibus made its hotly-anticipated public debut at last week’s CV Show.
The Orion E is visually identical to the diesel-powered, Fiat Ducato-based Orion and MD John Randerson says that the manufacturer is “ready to go” with series versions of the electric mini.
To be WVTA certified
Delivery for orders placed now will be in September and production examples will be certified under the European Whole Vehicle Type Approval scheme.
“We are at an advanced stage of negotiations with a number of customers and orders are waiting in the wings,” says Mr Randerson.
He confirms that the driveline used in the Orion E, which gives a 100-mile range, is compatible with other members of Mellor’s line-up. “It will transfer when we see a demand for it in other models. At the moment, we are challenging our engineering department for continual improvements.”
Another new bus unveiled: Strata HF
Also unveiled at the CV Show was the Strata HF. Based on the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter chassis, it follows the low-floor Strata LF and it can carry up to 19 seated passengers or seven wheelchair users, one more than its predecessor.
Mr Randerson adds that both the Strata HF and Strata LF could be adapted to suit other base vehicles if customers dictate.
“What I am proudest of about all of the new models that we have introduced over the last year is the effort that the team has put into them. The Orion E is a groundbreaking vehicle and it will only get better thanks to the team at Mellor.”
