At Coach & Bus Live 2011 Optare is again demonstrating its adaptability and flexibility in producing buses that meet detailed and very different customer specifications. On its stand (G1), it will be showing three models from a comprehensive range that now extends from 18 seater midibuses to 100 passenger double-deckers.

One of the three vehicles on display is the new Tempo SR heavy-duty, low-weight single-decker. This model is aimed at the 10 to 12 metre sector of the UK market and Optare is confident that its proven driveline and exceptional fuel efficiency combined with eye-catching styling will prove a winner.

Alongside the Tempo SR are examples of the popular Versa and Solo SR models.

The vehicles on display are:

• The new Tempo SR, which is from an order for 13 for trent barton who have worked closely with Optare in developing this new model. Full details are contained in an accompanying separate press release.

• An 11.1m Versa for Arriva Southern Counties, which is one of an order for 18 currently being delivered from Optare’s new Sherburn plant and which are the first Versas to be operated by Arriva Southern Counties.

The model on display has seating for 37 on Esteban Civic V2 seats of which three are tip-ups in the wheelchair/buggy bay. It is finished internally to the latest version of Arriva’s corporate colour scheme and has Hanover LED destination equipment.

The Versa is powered by the Mercedes-Benz OM904LA engine developing 115 kW (154 bhp) and is Euro 5 emissions compliant. This is matched to a five-speed Allison 2100 Series fully-automatic transmission featuring full CAN interface with the engine and incorporating a lock-up torque converter for improved fuel efficiency.

• A Solo SR midibus in the colours of Nottingham City Transport and which is one of an order for 24 recently delivered. The 9.95 metre bus is powered by the Cummins ISBe engine rated at 150kW (201 bhp) and matched to an Allison 2100 Series five-speed transmission.

It has seating for 33 with 31 on fixed Fainsa Punta 7 seats trimmed in Camira leather and a further two tip-ups in the wheelchair/buggy bay. Mobitec LED destination equipment is fitted.

Dawson Rentals (stand J31)

Also on display on the stand of Dawson Rentals is an 11.1 metre Versa powered by the Mercedes-Benz OM904LA engine developing 115 kW (154 bhp) and matched to a five-speed Allison 2100 automatic transmission. It has seating for 40 on Esteban Civic V3 seats and three tip-ups in the wheelchair/buggy bay. Altro slip resistant flooring is fitted and the bus has Mobitec LED destination equipment. Like all models in the Optare integral range, the Versa features the Eco Drive dashboard for driver performance monitoring to support safer driving and better fuel efficiency.