NEWS

VDL Futura FMD2 wins IBC Economy Award

The focus of the 2015 edition of the International Bus & Coach Competition (IBC) was the intercity coach. A number of experts in the field subjected the participating coaches to a battery of tests conducted over five days at the beginning of May 2015. The VDL Futura FMD2 was the undisputed winner for most cost-effective coach. The carefully considered lightweight concept in combination with the aerodynamic design and the most optimal powertrain resulted in the lowest fuel consumption by far. Add to this a high passenger capacity, lots of luggage space and a low cost per kilometre and the result is a coach that enables an operator to truly make money. 
“We see winning the IBC Economy Award as confirmation that we are successfully making good on our promise to provide ‘Profit of Ownership’, one of our core brand values. We are very proud of this,” said Rémi Henkemans, managing director VDL Bus & Coach bv. The IBC Economy Award will be presented during Busworld 2015.

IBC test results
The tested coach was a VDL Futura FMD2-129 with a length of 12.9 metres, fitted with seating for 49+1+1. The IBC test showed once again that the Futura is currently the most profitable coach. The kerb weight of this FMD2-129, including wheelchair lift and 660 litres of diesel, is just 13,300 kg. In combination with the modern, fuel-efficient DAF MX-11 engine, this results in extremely low fuel consumption. The optimally balanced powertrain also offers stable, superb road handling, on straight roads and in curves. High marks were also given for the logically arranged dashboard and the good driver visibility. The lower entry, which facilitates quick, smooth passenger boarding and alighting, the comfort and the legroom also scored well.

Profitable all-rounder
The VDL Futura FMD2 is a coach with many possibilities. The vehicle can be used both for tour and intercity service, but is also perfect for use as a school bus for example. The 1,250 mm floor height provides easy entry and egress. The wide centre door, available as an option, can be equipped with a cassette lift to enable disabled passengers to safely enter and exit the coach. Like the FHD2, the FMD2 has a flat floor without any raised areas. This construction provides the passengers with a spacious interior without obstacles. At the same time, the flat floor saves weight. Furthermore, a floor without corners and edges is easier to clean and keep clean. The driver enjoys the same dashboard found in the Futura FHD2, which is designed to offer the optimal combination of ergonomics, safety, organization and efficiency combined with an automotive design. The owner/operator will find that the Futura FMD2 offers ‘Profit of Ownership’: the low net weight, reduced fuel consumption, high passenger capacity, generous luggage space and low running costs make the Futura FMD2 a highly profitable investment.

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