Alexander Dennis Limited (“ADL”), a subsidiary of NFI Group Inc. (“NFI”), one of the world’s largest independent global bus manufacturers, today announced that it has delivered a new Plaxton Leopard coach to Lancashire operator Don Fraser Coaches.
The new wheelchair-accessible, 12.8m long Plaxton Leopard coach provides an upgrade for the family-run business, which has been providing quality coach travel since 1972. Built on the reliable Volvo B8R chassis, its seating for up to 70 passengers is partially installed on tracking to accommodate up to two wheelchair users who board the vehicle via a side-mounted lift. This is the first Plaxton Leopard to be manufactured that offers space for two wheelchairs.
Features include digital destination displays meeting PSV Accessibility Regulations, as well as full air conditioning, smart tachograph and a comprehensive eight-camera CCTV system. Exterior chrome edging, upgraded mirrors, wood-effect flooring and leather headrests complete the exclusive specification of the coach.
Don Fraser Coaches Director, Kimberley Golding said, “This year has been an incredibly challenging time for independent coach operators like us and we are glad to now see our latest set of wheels on the road. We received it at the end of March, right at the beginning of lockdown! We had been in deep thought prior as to whether we should have it in our possession or not. The future was extremely uncertain at the time and still is, however, we decided to bite the bullet and take delivery of it. Our new Plaxton Leopard has fit in to our fleet nicely and we are proud of our achievement. It is a versatile addition. ADL have been great to do business with.”
Charlie Miller, Regional Sales Manager at ADL, said: “Don Fraser Coaches have been a pleasure and a lovely family to deal with. With this new Plaxton Leopard, they will enjoy style and comfort in a steady workhorse that can be put to a multitude of uses as the industry recovers from lockdown and customers return to coaches.”