Al Futtaim Auto & Machinery and Volvo Buses: Keeping the UAE Moving

Volvo Buses and FAMCO have received an order from the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority to supply 143 Volvo luxury intercity coaches over the next two years, in what is FAMCO’s largest deal with the RTA to date.

Volvo’s B11R is the first bus in the Middle East to meet the strict Euro 6 standards of fuel efficiency and emissions; aiding the successful signing of the deal which was evaluated against the RTA’s rigorous 10-year total cost of ownership requirements, including fuel and operational costs.

Commenting on the significant new signing, Akash Passey, Senior Vice President for Volvo Buses Region International said, “Being the first bus manufacturer to introduce Euro 6-standards to the Middle East has enabled us to deliver the most fuel efficient, cost effective and environmentally conscious public transport solution, helping the RTA to continue to lead the way in safety and sustainability. These buses mark the beginning of a new breed of modern buses focused on delivering clean, safe and efficient public transport.”

“The Volvo coaches will be operating not only in Dubai, but across the entire UAE, bringing people closer and uniting communities, and we’re proud to be a part of the RTA’s goal to increase the community’s mobility via public transport by as much as 30% by 2030.”, said Nigel Johnson, Senior Managing Director, FAMCO UAE.

Euro 6 Efficiency

Volvo’s 11-litre 430hp Euro 6 engine adheres to not only the most stringent level of emission requirements for diesel engines the world over, but also delivers uncompromised power and performance. Combined with a suite of smart fuel-saving services like the Volvo I-Shift gearbox, advanced engine management system and I-Coaching; a real-time device which offers the driver continuous on-the-job training with instant feedback on their acceleration, braking, cornering and over-revving, it ensures a safer and more fuel-efficient journey.

Volvo Safety

As with all Volvo Buses, these coaches offer class-leading safety for all roads users – from bus passengers to commuters on the roads. The ‘Volvo Driver Support System’, which is available on all Volvo buses and coaches, offers a package of high-end safety technologies normally found in premium cars; collision warning with emergency brake, lane keeping support and adaptive cruise control, which uses a radar to ensure a safe distance between the bus and the vehicle in front during changing traffic conditions.

Comfort and reliability

All 143 Volvo coaches delivered to the RTA will be fitted with the Sunsundegui SC5 bodies. These buses will have future-ready ITS systems which provide the most modern levels of fleet tracking, allowing the RTA to deliver an enhanced level of service to its passengers. Each bus will have premium interiors, fitted with 55 luxury ISRI lightweight ergonomic seats, and all of the comfort and accessories required by a modern commuter like USB charging capabilities for all passengers, foot rests, cup-holders and plush wooden finish flooring