BASE Coach Sales has announced that it can offer a full PSVAR-compliant retrofit solution for existing MOBIpeople Explorer and Midi Explorer models that do not currently satisfy the Regulations.
BASE and MOBIpeople have developed a kit to suit each model.
Work undertaken includes the addition of an extra door for wheelchair access, the fitment of a lift, installation of floor tracking and sundry other items required to achieve certification. It is available for all non-PSVAR MOBIpeople coaches that are already in service.
All MOBIpeople PSVAR bases covered
In a statement, BASE says that it “has been working with MOBIpeople to develop a retrofit PSVAR compliance package for Explorer models operating in the UK market.
“We have viewed a conversion in progress on a Midi Explorer at the MOBIpeople factory in Coimbra and we expect the first kits required for full-size Explorer coaches to arrive within the next couple of weeks.”
The dealership adds that it has taken the steps following increasing indications from local authorities that they will expect operators to meet PSVAR on in-scope school services.
The Department for Transport recently announced a two-year exemption process for some non-compliant vehicles used on home to school services that satisfy certain criteria, but that move does not benefit all operators. Failure to comply with PSVAR where it is required is a criminal offence.
No details of pricing for the PSVAR compliance work have been released by BASE, but it expects demand to be high. Although the first conversion has been carried out in Portugal, subsequent examples will be undertaken at the dealership’s premises in Leyland.
New models also available
BASE continues to sell new examples of both the Explorer (pictured), built on MAN RR8 and Scania K-series chassis, and the Midi Explorer, on the front-engined MAN TGL underframe, with PSVAR certification.
It has also undertaken several conversions of two-axle Caetano Levante coaches to 75-seat 3+2 layout while retaining PSVAR compliance.
