Operator Updates for MHR East Anglia
Update: Large coach order to replace all B10Ms and derivatives on X'press services arriving. Will be introduced alongside New Coach Connections (network) into the new Colchester CoachCentre.
Update: First batch of Clacton / Stephenson Rd allocated midi MMCs have arrived.
Update: Thanks to all Priory Heath staff for the feedback on our plans. We will be withdrawing ALL DESIGNTECH MACROTECHS (L640-L672) for 28/7 to send for the refurb at KBB East Anglia. The Citaros will arrive in time for these withdrawals, and will stay for a few days at least. If needed, we will re-activate all of the MLF11xx .223s temporarily.
Update: We are now planning the refurbishment of the Ipswich / Priory Heath Designline Designtech Macrotechs. We would like staff comment on what powertrain to use, as this refurb will involve driveline replacements. To cover the vehicles whilst they get refurbished, the plan is initially to send the Stowmarket Regionals O530Ns to Priory Heath, and if required activate the ex-Felixstowe 12.223s as they were fitted with the uprated DO836 engine in 2014. Forgot to mention that we are willing to trial some powertrains on individual vehicles.
Update: Following our recent collaboration with KBB to purchase GBV NZ after its collapse, we have committed to ordering at least 15 of the new Desigline by KBB Olymbus Midi Microturbine Hybrid buses for demonstrating the type to other operators. These vehicles are likely to operate out of Castle Hill depot on their Midi services numbered in the 18x and 19x range. After negotiations, we have committed to ordering 22 of the type as well as considering Voith gearbox 200MMCs as we have heard news that there is likely to be a major improvement this generation from Voith.
Update: Order placed for large quantites of GBV NZ MAN 16.250 Enviroline GenIIs to replace older types at Lowestoft Depot. These are scheduled to arrive in early 2019. We are also considering our options for Low Emissions trial vehicles for most depots.
Update: The Hybrid vehicles originally allocated to Barrack Street have had their LD spec refurbishment complete and will enter service today.
Update: Intended vehicles arrived in time to operate the 6.
Update: Order placed for 19 + 10opt vehicles to work the new Route 6 from Norwich (Lackenham Community Hall) to Diss via Long Stratton. These vehicles are intended to work out of Chapel depot. If they do not arrive in time for the intended start date, we can use some of the VOC LongLink pool Gemini IIs on a reduced frequency. These vehicles will be MAN 18.290 GBV Enviroline GenII with single front door and Long Distance spec interior, similar to LongLink but slightly less.