June 18, 2008

Callinan Coaches of Claregalway have just taken delivery of five new Volvo 9700 Prestige Plus coaches, two of which are in the 13m tri-axle configuration.

The new Volvo 9700 Prestige Plus is specified with the popular Volvo DH12E engine – rated at 460hp – and I-Shift gearbox combination. Enhanced safety features include Front Underrun Protection (FUPS) which prevents a car being wedged underneath the coach in the event of a frontal collision, along with Front Impact Protection (FIPS) and Knee Impact Protection (KIPS) which protects the driver in the same. The latest generation Electronic Braking System (EBS) with its Electronic Stability Program (ESP) promote controlled braking and road holding, for a safe, smooth ride.

The 9700’s distinctive and stylish front end and interior detailing create an overall feeling of luxury, space and comfort. The theatre-style flooring ensures that all passengers (53 on Callinan’s tri-axle coaches and 49 on their standard length vehicles) have excellent viewing, while the climate control, servery, toilet and Volvo Sound & Vision entertainment system – comprising CD, DVD player and TFT monitors – mean that every comfort is guaranteed.

The Volvo 9700 driver’s area has been designed to provide an excellent overview and enhanced control, whereby the instruments are easy to monitor with a comprehensive, yet clear, information display panel in the middle of the main instrument binnacle. The instrument panel itself has gently flowing lines and logically positioned controls, whilst large window areas and rear-vision mirrors, with integrated wide-angle mirrors, provide the driver with excellent visibility throughout the vehicle.

All five new 9700s will be used mainly for touring work throughout Ireland, Britain and Europe. In addition to touring, the new coaches will also undertake regular express work on behalf of Bus Eireann.

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