The pre-production 10.5m Transport for London (TfL) specification Metrodecker demonstrator has completed a successful trail with Go-Ahead London.  The Optare double decker was put through its paces operating on routes from Go-Ahead’s Bexleyheath bus garage.

Richard Harrington, Engineering Director for Go-Ahead London, commented: “Go-Ahead are committed to taking care of our customers changing needs, today, tomorrow and always, so we were delighted to be able to put the Metrodecker through its paces in London. We were pleased with the Metrodecker’s overall performance with regards to reliability, serviceability and fuel efficiency. We received very positive feedback from the 95 different drivers who drove the vehicle in service, with the majority reporting that it was a great product with a clear view of the road ahead.  Our customers were also very complimentary of the vehicles comfort and design.”

Robert Drewery, Commercial Director, Optare said, “We are delighted with the performance of the Metrodecker in the capital and the positive feedback from Go-Ahead London and their customers.  The vehicle will remain with Go-head London for a little longer, moving to New Cross Garage, where drivers and engineers will undergo familiarity training in preparation for the Metrodecker EV prototype route 36 trial in the summer.”

The Metrodecker, powered by the Mercedes-Benz OM934LA, Euro 6, four-cylinder engine with ZF Ecolife transmission, has a fully integral frame, boasts light weight credentials, enviable fuel economy and class leading seating capacity.  The Metrodecker is available in two lengths the two door TfL specification measures in at 10.5metres and the single door provincial specification at 11.1metres.  A TfL specification fully electric prototype Metrodecker was also launched in November last year at EuroBus Expo.

Photo Caption: Left to Right, Robert Drewery, Commercial Director, Optare with Deborah Cane, Driver Mentor and Type Trainer for Go-Ahead Bexleyheath and Richard Harrington, Engineering Director, Go-Ahead London with the Optare, Metrodecker.