Optare has won a multi-million pound order for 33 of its Solo SR model to be used on the Island of Jersey.

Hackney based social enterprise company HCT Group is taking 33 vehicles to form the backbone of a new bus fleet for an island life on Jersey following its successful win of a competitive tendering process from the island’s government. Operating as CT Plus, it is already providing bus transport on neighbouring Guernsey and will commence operations on Jersey on 1st January 2013.

The CT Plus buses are the Slimline version of the Solo SR, which at just 2.35 metres wide will be well suited to the island’s narrow roads. At 9.7 metres in length, the buses are equipped with Lazzerini 3840 Pratico seating and feature Actia CCTV and Mobitec destination equipment.

Optare Sales Director John Horn says: “HCT has established itself by far as the UK’s leading social enterprise operator in the public transport field. Its choice of the Solo SR is based on good experience with the model in its operations in mainland Britain and will provide a first-class service to the Islanders. Furthermore, its use on Jersey will allow the bus to be showcased to the many thousands of holiday makers who visit the island each year.

“I am delighted to win this business from such a highly respected operator. Along with many other orders this year for our Solo SR they prove what an unrivalled lead the model has in the midibus sector.”