Anglo-Dutch Bus for South America
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QENIOR representatives from the P--) governments of countries in South America were among the guests invited to a preview which took place yesterday of an ACLO (A.E.C.) Regal Mk. VI city service bus intended for operation in that continent. Based on a substantially standard U2LA 19-ft. 6-in. wheelbase chassis with A.E.C. AH690 engine and Monocontrol transmission, the vehicle has bodywork by N.V. Auto-Industrie Verheul, the well-known Dutch concern which is associated with the British concern, A.E.C. Ltd.
Generally similar to 150 buses ordered by two co-operative undertakings, C.O.E.T.C. and U.C.O.T., which have been formed with Uruguayan Government backing to provide improved bus services in Montevideo, the vehicle shown is actually a demonstration model which is being sent to the A.E.C. distributors in Peru, based at Lima, The overall dimensions are 36 ft. by 8 ft. 2 in. and seating capacity is provided for 40 passengers, in addition to which up to 60 standing passengers may be carried, A front entrance and centre exit are provided, equipped with twin-hinged and double-jacknife doors, respectively, both powered by Bosch air-pressure door gear used in conjunction with electrical control equipment. The body framework is constructed from square-section steel tubes of 40 mm. by 40 mm. by 2 mm. dimensions. The pillars are welded to the cross-bearers which support the marine plywood floor. Steel is also generally used for the exterior panelling, I mm. (20 S.W.G.) sheet being employed. The wheelboxes are of 1.25 mm. (18 S.W.G.) sheet. Plastics-covered sheet is used for the interior side and roof panels, and a 1.375-in, blanket of Isoflex insulation material is incorporated in the doubleskin roof.
The seats are built on Verheul tubular steel frames and have foam rubber cushion fillings and plastics upholstery. Among items of equipment are front and rear bumpers, the latter designed to prevent anyone standing on it, and a mechanical bell near the entrance, operated by a ceiling-mounted strap running along the length of the bus.
Waiting for the Bridge OOKING forward to completion of .1-0 the Severn Bridge, the Rhondda Transport Co. Ltd. is asking local authorities concerned to co-operate in obtaining sanction for an express coach service on Saturdays during June, July and August, between Minthead and the Rhondda, Pontypridd and Caerphilly districts.