Volvo targets e-mobility agenda
Volvo has reported that bus sales in 2017 had been really strong, with over 500 B5LH hybrids supplied, the majority of them to London
Speaking at the Coach and Bus UK show – at which Volvo exhibited coaches – MD Nick Page said: “If you look at Volvo’s worldwide hybrid and electric sales it is around 3,700 vehicles and 1,800 of them are in the UK, so we are very strong in that area.”
He said he wanted to drive the e-mobility agenda, pointing to the order for 7900e electrics from Harrogate and the 7900e demonstrator running for TfGM which was ‘working really well.’ He added: “Outside of London there is still a lot of demand for diesel, especially if you take in the Irish market. The B5TL is still a very important part of the portfolio.”
He said aftersales support has become crucial to maintaining sales: “It’s very important… an integral and vital, key part of our business. Our connection with the dealer network that delivers on the ground is really important. It is an important element in our customer retention. We have further plans to strengthen it. I am devoting a lot of my time to developing the aftermarket proposition.”
On Coach and Bus UK, Nick commented: “I don’t think a show every year is sustainable. At a time of uncertainty everyone has to look at cost and you can’t have a new message every year.” He felt the scaled-down stand space taken was “an appropriate investment to support the industry.”
Find out how Volvo made a big splash. Turn to page 17 to begin your journey through the event’s launches