Optare reports highly successful show

A significant number of orders and an ‘exceptional’ response to their new Solo SR model are reported by Optare following their attendance at Coach & Bus Live 2007.

“We took orders totalling well over 100 vehicles from both major national players and local and independent operators,” says Optare Group Managing Director, Bob Coombes. “These include significant numbers of orders for our Versa model, which is now in full scale production with the first deliveries being made in October 2007.

“The overall level of interest in the products we had on display was very high and the feedback extremely positive, particularly in relation to our new Solo SR model, launched at the show and, for many, the star attraction.

“There is no doubt that operators were very impressed by the new Solo SR and the extent to which we have integrated a number of the features of Versa that have made it so appealing to them. At the same time we have enhanced the excellent performance characteristics for which Solo is renowned and which have underpinned its success leading to sales now totalling almost 3,000 vehicles.”

The new Solo SR will be available in 8.9 and 9.6 metre lengths for delivery from March 2008.

Key benefits of the Solo SR model include:

Striking and attractive external styling and bright, modern internal designs that will be strongly appealing to passengers

New standard of ride and handling that will provide a smooth, quite and comfortable travelling experience

Low unladen weight that will contribute to class-leading fuel efficiency

Choice of three power units using either SCR or EGR technology

Choice of integrated or conventional electronic destination equipment

Fully adjustable ‘tilt and reach’ steering column, enhancing driver comfort

Use of ground gears on the drive axle to increase durability and reduce internal / external noise levels

Additional 100 mm of length forward of the front axle increasing the low floor area

LED lights as standard for improved vision and visibility.

“We are now looking forward to building on our growing success on the Continent through our attendance next week at the 2007 Busworld Show in Kortrijk, Belgium,” says Bob Coombes. “Solo is already becoming established in mainland Europe and our first Tempo has recently entered service in Germany.”