August sees strong growth for big buses

Date: 7/9/2011

The registration of coaches and big buses both saw an increase last month.

Figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) revealed that the new large bus market was subject to 114 per cent growth during August and 70 per cent over the last three months.

The registration of coaches was up 25 per cent on July figures, although it was six per cent down over the rolling year.

According to the SMMT, a likely reason for this growth is the enhanced reliability of the vehicles now coming to market.

Paul Everitt, SMMT Chief Executive, says: "Double-deck and big bus manufacturers continued to enjoy the strong growth seen since June, up 114 per cent in the month with healthy demand for new highly reliable and fuel-efficient models."

However, he added that there are still challenges present, particularly amid continuing concerns about the economy.

One type of large commuter vehicle that may not be witnessing such growth is the bendy bus.

Transport for London has revealed that a further 43 of these have been removed from the city in line with Mayor Boris Johnson's campaign.

"These ginormous machines are far more suited to the wide open vista of a Scandinavian airport than London's narrow streets," he said.

Posted by Mary Treen