Having bought i6 Integrals two years ago, Dartline has returned to Irizar UK to buy two more.
The Devon-based operator which runs a fleet of 70 vehicles – around 25 of them touring coaches – says it’s had a positive experience of running the two DAF-engined 53-seaters it has had in the fleet since 2015: “The response from passengers has been good,” said Managing Director David Hounslow. “It’s an aesthetically pleasing coach, with a modern appearance.”
David says the two new i6s – both 12.9-metre, two-axle vehicles with he powerful MX11 271 engine and Ecolife automatic gearbox – will mainly be destined for European travel. Based on feedback, Dartline has added USB charging points throughout the coach: “The drivers reported being asked regularly by passengers to ‘lend’ their USB charging points!” he says.
The coaches have 53 i6 seats with seatback tables, a toilet, drinks machine, the standard two-monitor DVD system and reversing horn and camera.
Dartline was founded in 1987 with eight minibuses and, through a series of acquisitions and moves, built its fleet into its current form. The company has extensive home-to-school work, private hire and touring work.