Berkshire based Courtney Coach Group has ordered 11 Optare Solo SRs to form the backbone of a renewal of its bus fleet and to maintain the maximum age profile of five years on its Corporate and Bus network.

Deliveries will commence in November with conclusion of the order in line with Courtney’s requirements in January 2013.

Ten of the vehicles are the standard width version of the Solo SR at 9.0 metres in length. They will be equipped with Esteban Civic V3 seating and will also feature Synetics CCTV and Hanover LED destination equipment. The 11th vehicle is a SlimLine variant, which at just 2.35 metres in width will be well suited to some of the narrower routes on which Courtney’s operate.

Optare Sales Director, John Horn comments: “I am delighted to have secured this business from such a highly respected operator. Rising fuel costs continue to put pressure on all bus operators and we know that our class leading Solo SR continues to prove the most fuel efficient vehicle in this sector.”

Bill Courtney, Managing Director of Courtney Coaches said of the order: “Courtney’s have first-hand experience of Optare products. Operating in both Corporate Business Parks & Public Bus Services, it was imperative that we chose vehicles that could not only deliver a reliable service, but also portray a professional image for our Corporate clients.

In addition, operating costs are such a major factor in today’s marketplace, it is imperative to get the right mix of being able to deliver cost effective solutions whilst catering for passenger’s demands, we feel confident that in placing this order it will enable us to continue with our current commitments and protect long term contracts.