Cargo bussed to Channel Is
Page 16
If you've noticed an error in this article please click here to report it so we can fix it.
by Noel MiHier • Iveco Ford has delivered its first right-hand-drive Cargo-based PCV chassis to Jersey Coach operator Blue Coach Tours of St Helier.
The Brescia-built 95. 9E18F CountryBus is aimed at operators requiring a relatively low-cost dual-purpose vehicle with up to 36 seats. Blue Coach Tours' vehicle is fitted with WS Vanguard 2 luxury 42seat coach bodywork.
The additional seating is permitted because the vehicle is not expected to exceed 48km/h (30mph) in operation—Jersey regulations allow axle loadings to be increased by 15%.
Power is supplied by a frontmounted 5.9-litre charge-cooled Iveco engine producing 174hp (130kW) at 2,700rpm with 413Ibft (560Nm) of torque at 1,400rpm. Allison auto transmission replaces the standard six-speed manual box. Air/hydraulic disc brakes are standard with ABS and anti-skid control an option.
Parabolic steel spring suspension with anti-roll bars and dampers are set up for passenger operations.
A brief drive on Jersey's narrow, congested roads demonstrated its light responsive steering and progressive brakes.
The chassis is priced from £27,000 (ex-VAT); the chassis could be produced at Iveco Ford's Langley plant if UK demand is sufficient.