Iveco is a well-known and highly regarded bus producer in Ireland. Even though the Italian manufacturer has an extensive range of factory built integral buses and coaches, so far many models have not been offered in RHD (right hand drive) form. In Ireland, a number of importers and body builders have carried out their own coachworks on the Iveco Daily chassis and drivetrain, which have proved popular for operators.
At a trade press event in Milan at the beginning of November, newly appointed Brand Leader at Iveco Bus, Stephane Espinasse, outlined some of the company’s plans for the future
Domenica Nucera, President of the Bus Business Unit, stated at the opening of the event: “We are moving towards a new business model: from selling a product to selling a service. The key to achieving this shift is a well-organised flow of information. Connectivity and digitalisation are today key.”
Stephane Espinasse added: “Sustainability is the main trend in the transportation industry and will remain so in the foreseeable future. The entry into force of the clean vehicle directive and the Low Emission Zones issues in many cities mean that PTOs need affordable solutions, financially and environmentally. Today Iveco Bus has 8,000 natural gas vehicles in operations across Europe. The trend toward gas bus deployment in Europe remains strong. In the first half of 2021, 10 percent of intercity buses sold in Europe were gas-powered. The share grows to 48 per cent in France. And what about e-mobility? In the portfolio there are the Crealis In-motion-charging and the E-Way range (marketed under Heuliez Bus brand in France). We offer e-mobility solutions in 7 European countries, we produced 500 units and we have in 2021 a share of 12% in the European electric bus market.”
Natural[1] gas is particularly attractive in terms of meeting environmental challenges: air quality, climate protection and reduced silence in operation. This alternative fuel source is 100% compatible with gas recovered from organic waste. Iveco Bus natural gas buses and minibuses help preserve natural resources as the fine particle level is almost zero and NOx is reduced by more than a third. This environmental benefit results in a reduction in greenhouse gases of up to 95% and noise levels are halved, providing exceptionally quiet operation for drivers, passengers and residents alike. With around 8,000 Gas vehicles on the roads today across Europe, contributing to a cleaner transport sector, IVECO BUS is the undisputed leader of this market, accounting for one out of every three gas vehicles sold.
The Daily range: Iveco Bus expertise extended to minibuses
The Daily minibus is the perfect complement to the full size buses, making Iveco Bus unique among the full Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs). The Daily minibus Model Year 2022 offers more comfort and safety on board, with a focus on flexibility as well as a substantial total cost of ownership reduction. A constant search for improvement makes this minibus the best in its category.
A unique engine line-up delivers performance and sustainability for every task. It is now available with diesel power ratings of 180 and 210 hp as well as a 136 hp Natural Gas version. This CNG version helps to preserve natural resources, as it is fully compatible with bio-methane.
The Daily minibus offers the choice of two transmissions, following the introduction of a new 6-speed manual gearbox alongside the highly acclaimed 8-speed Hi-Matic auto box.
