New Leopards now with dual seating-arrangement certification

Newly-built ADL Plaxton Leopards are now available with dual seating-arrangement certification.

The new feature enables operators to switch their Plaxton Leopard coaches from 3+2 seating (typically featuring 72 seats in a 12.8m long vehicle) to 2+2 seating for 59 passengers without the need for a VTP5 inspection by the DVSA. The change can be made to quickly down-seat and up-seat coaches to reflect changing operational requirements.

The Leopard, which is built on the Volvo B8R chassis, has a flat floor with dual tracking designed to allow changes in interior configuration.

“Dual certification is the logical next step in the evolution of this popular product” – Alexander Dennis’s Sales Manager New and Used Coach Sales, Simon Wood

Alexander Dennis’s Sales Manager New and Used Coach Sales, Simon Wood, said: “The Plaxton Leopard already is one of the industry’s favourite coaches thanks to its excellent versatility. Dual certification is the logical next step in the evolution of this popular product, cutting out the paperwork when operators adjust vehicles to changing requirements for different seasons or new contracts and making the Plaxton Leopard even better value for money all around.”

Dual certification is available from the start of 2023 on newly-built Plaxton Leopard coaches originally manufactured to 3+2 configuration, covering stock vehicles as well as coaches built to order. It is intended to empower operators to make seating changes themselves in line with manufacturer guidelines and approved seating options. Additionally, customers can choose to offer to have this work performed at the AD24 service centre in Anston.