Gillingham-based operator takes first two of new model, which have a highly-diverse workload in store
Established Irizar UK customer The Kings Ferry will be the first UK operator to take delivery of the i6S integral when it receives a pair of 14.07m tri-axles next month.
The 57-seaters have wheelchair lifts, destination display equipment, Irizar i6 Plus seating and wood-effect flooring, and they will be used on a wide variety of work by the Kent operator, says Managing Director Ian Fraser.
“A coach may start the week on a London commuter route, then do private hires before setting off on a continental tour. To that end, we have created an interior colour palette that gives all of our vehicles an identical Kings Ferry ambience.”
Also fitted are USB charging points at all seats and Mr Fraser pays tribute to Irizar’s ability to produce a coach exactly to The Kings Ferry’s specification.
“Another very important factor is the external appearance. We compete not only with other operators, but also with different modes of transport, including rail and car.
“Any vehicle operated by us must have an element of style and presence on the road. Irizar has always built a good-looking coach, but the new i6S integral takes things to the next level. It is outstanding.
“When everything is taken into account, it’s offered at a very competitive price. It’s not the cheapest coach, but it is very good value.”
The i6S integral was launched in right-hand drive form at Coach & UK and the first of The Kings Ferry’s was handed over to Mr Fraser by Irizar UK Director Steve O’Neill at the show.
Differences to existing the i6 integral include a restyled aerodynamic body incorporating LED lighting inside and out, a wide range of seating options, a fully multiplexed wiring system and many benefits for the driver.
The two Kings Ferry coaches are powered by the DAF MX-11 engine rated at 435bhp driving through the ZF EcoLife automatic gearbox.
