A groundbreaking strategic partnership agreement reached with Dawsonrentals bus and coach limited has secured a 50-bus order for Optare.

The agreement gives Dawsonrentals access to the international sales force of Optare’s major shareholder, Ashok Leyland, to facilitate the disposal of its used vehicles in right-hand-drive markets outside the UK. In return Dawsonrentals will purchase new replacement vehicles from Optare for its extensive UK rental fleet.

Optare Deputy CEO Glenn Saint commented: “This groundbreaking reciprocal collaboration will enable Dawson’s, through the purchase of Optare buses, to replace its rental fleet with new, improved and more fuel efficient vehicles. The agreement benefits Dawson’s by creating an outlet for its used vehicles in countries where the initial purchase price may be an obstacle to the acquisition of brand new buses. It will also reduce the excess of ageing vehicles in the UK market.

“This is a further demonstration of the excellent ‘fit’ of our Ashok Leyland ownership,” he added. “We have always said such benefits would flow from this and here is a very significant one”.

Optare will benefit from an ongoing new order stream commencing with the initial 50 vehicle order calling for the supply over the next six months of a mix of Solos, mostly in 9.0 and 9.7m form, which will join Dawsonrentals rental fleet.

Paul Sainthouse, Managing Director of Dawsonrentals bus and coach, said: “Our rental business depends upon our success in marketing our used vehicles and this agreement gives us access to new world markets for them supported by a Top 5 global bus player – Ashok Leyland. We are delighted that this reciprocal agreement also means that we will be able to offer our British rental customers an even better selection of new and advanced products from Optare.”