Cardiff based Watts Coaches has bought a new B9R coach with Jonckheere bodywork.
Volvo was able to supply the new coach within the family run operator’s limited time frame, ensuring it could quickly enter service.
“The coach has already covered some 10,000 kilometres on our continental tour work and has just got back from a ten day trip, so consistency and reliability are clearly important factors for us,” explained Watts Coaches Managing Director James Watts.
“We’re taking a keen interest in the B9R’s performance in terms of fuel economy and will be able to make a full assessment after we’ve run the coach for a couple of months.”
Watts continued, “We have had Volvo coaches previously, Volvo Bus were able to supply us with a cost effective coach in the time frame we required.
“The aesthetics of the coach certainly make it a very appealing vehicle and our team report it also drives very well.”
Watts Coaches’ new B9R is specified with Jonckheere bodywork. It is fitted with a Volvo rear-mounted, 6-cylinder, 9-litre diesel engine with 380hp.
The coach is fitted with a smooth and efficient Volvo i-Shift 12-speed fully automated mechanical gearbox along with the VR3250 compact retarder, offering very powerful auxiliary braking. It also features Volvo’s electronic braking system which combines with powerful all round disc brakes to give a rapid reaction time and shorter stopping distance making Volvo one of the safest coaches on the road.
Watts Coaches has been operating for more than 50 years, specifying an impressive fleet ranging from 29 to 85 seats. Operations include public services, school contracts, domestic and European private hire. Its luxurious coaches feature toilets, DVD players, reclining seats and air conditioning, catering for any passengers needs.
Volvo Bus Regional Sales Manager, Jo Standbridge, added, “We are delighted to supply a new B9R with Jonckheere bodywork to Watts Coaches. We were able to finalise a deal in the short time frame given.”
