Redwing Coaches to be launch customer for Volvo eVoTor

London-based Redwing Coaches, backed by sector investor REL Capital, is to be one of the launch customers for the Volvo B8R-based MCV eVoTor, the new coach exclusively launched in the UK and Ireland in November.

The six new Volvos will join a 35-strong fleet of coaches at the operator’s depot in Croydon and Gravesend, Kent. They will feature Redwing Coaches’ new red and silver livery and will be operating a range of services across central London, including school transport, commuter services and tours, with each vehicle covering up to 100,000km annually.

“…when we saw this new model introduced by Volvo Buses we knew it would align perfectly with what we’re doing” – Tom Maidman, Director of Operations at Redwing Coaches

Tom Maidman, Director of Operations at Redwing Coaches, said: “We take pride in operating a premium service with vehicles of the highest quality – so when we saw this new model introduced by Volvo Buses we knew it would align perfectly with what we’re doing.

“Our recent success means we’re steadily expanding our fleet with an aim of getting back to pre-Covid levels where Redwing operated 60 vehicles across its London depots. Next year that will include further additions of the Volvo B8R – MCV eVoTors, alongside luxury 9900 coaches.”

The six PSVAR-compliant coaches are built on the B8R eight-litre chassis, featuring the D8K engine that produces up to 350hp and a peak torque of 1,585Nm. The 12-speed I-Shift automated transmission combines smooth and precise gearshifts with high average speeds and outstanding driveability.

Maidman continues: “The team at Volvo Buses has been supportive throughout this process and made every effort to meet our needs. It’s a pleasure to deal with our representative, but also with the experienced technicians at our local dealerpoint, Volvo Truck and Bus Centre London South across the road from our Croydon depot. We know we can count on them to always be there, and when we need Genuine Volvo Parts, they arrive with us the next day.”

All vehicles offer generous onboard luggage racks and are designed with 53 seats and a centre-sunken fresh water toilet, which can be dismantled to allow for a total of 55 seats. The new MCV eVoTor body features clean lines and sleek surfaces, and passengers are kept connected on the go with individual USB charging points and a premium Bosch audiovisual system for those longer journeys.

Redwing Coaches is owned by REL Capital, which made the acquisition in February 2022, previously belonging to Addison Lee. REL own a total of eight UK coach operating businesses and is keen to strengthen its partnership with Volvo Buses into 2024 as it plans for further acquisitions.