Megabus.com is testing the UK's first 15-metre Scania Irizar i6

The UK's first 15-metre overall length Scania Irizar i6 coach is set to enter service later this month when it embarks upon long-term trials on a megabus.com route. The initial trial will run for six months, during which time the vehicle is to be based at Stagecoach's Rugby depot and will operate on routes across the UK.

Based on a Scania K 410 EB 6x2*4 rear-steer chassis, the vehicle features Scania's 13-litre DC13-115 engine, which complies with the Euro 6 exhaust emissions standard using Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) only. Power output is 410 horsepower at 1,900 r/min and the unit delivers 2,150Nm of torque at 1,000 - 1,300 r/min. Transmission is by way of Scania's GR875R eight-speed gearbox with integral retarder and Scania Opticruise fully-automated gear selection system. The vehicle is also equipped with Scania's C200 OnBoard fleet management system.

In addition to being the UK's first 15-metre Scania Irizar i6, the vehicle is also the first to be equipped with a 13-litre Euro 6 engine, a front wheelchair lift (PLS and Magic Floor) and a full height emergency door with fold-out cassette steps.

Inside, the coach provides seating for 61 passengers on Irizar PB passenger seats with three-point seatbelts, leather headrests and centre armrests. Seating capacity is reduced to 59 if the vehicle's NMI Magic seats for wheelchair passengers are in use. Three-pin electrical sockets and USB charging sockets are provided at each double seat. Other interior fitments include Hannover DDA-compliant destination equipment, a Synetics CCTV system and a rear offside surface-mounted Shades freshwater toilet.

"Scania has long enjoyed a productive and mutually beneficial business relationship with Stagecoach and we are delighted to have been given the opportunity to prove this exciting new vehicle on its megabus.com service," comments Tony Tomsett, Bus, Coach and Engine Sales Director for Scania (Great Britain) Limited. "The Scania Irizar i6 is highly appointed, provides exceptional levels of passenger comfort and undoubtedly has the wow factor. We are therefore confident it will be extremely well received both by megabus.com and its customers."

Megabus.com Managing Director Elizabeth Esnouf said: “We are always keen to look at new options that have the potential to enhance our fleet and deliver a continued high standard of service for our customers. This is potentially an exciting new vehicle for us and we look forward to the results of this trial.”

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