Reading Buses has confirmed an order for seven double deckers compliant with London’s Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) from Alexander Dennis, a subsidiary of NFI Group Inc., one of the world’s leading independent global bus manufacturers. The Enviro400 buses are for the operator’s high-profile Green Line 702 and 703 services to London and Heathrow Airport.
To meet Reading Buses’ requirement for a stunning and versatile vehicle for longer distance operations, the buses will be the first 11.5m long Enviro400 that Alexander Dennis has built with City-style bodywork. They will feature a glazed staircase, skylights, air chill, wood effect flooring, high back seats with USB and wireless charging, social seating areas and LED mood lighting.
Five of the seven buses will have space to accommodate two wheelchair users, while the other two will have an additional luggage rack for airport journeys. Both versions will have a total of 76 seats.
Robert Williams, Chief Executive Officer of Reading Buses, said: “We are delighted to be placing this order with Alexander Dennis after a full tendering exercise showed the best specification for our customers alongside the best value for money, 24-hour support and lowest carbon impact. We anticipate this order setting a trend for the future as bus patronage continues to recover following the pandemic and look forward to deploying the buses onto our high-profile Green Line services.”
Alexander Dennis Regional Sales Manager, Mark Taylor, commented: “We are pleased to have secured this prestigious order from Reading Buses as the award-winning operator upgrades its iconic Green Line services. Our expertise in tailoring vehicles to operators’ requirements means these will set new standards with a bespoke specification that will enhance passengers’ journeys to and from London and Heathrow Airport. The Reading Buses team will be fully supported around the clock by our comprehensive AD24 aftermarket.”
