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Road Impressions of the VAL
Page 123
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A RUN as a passenger over roads varying from unclassified lanes to MI motorway, followed by a very brief spell of driving gave the opportunity, to form some idea of the capabilities and qualities of the Bedford VAL. The vehicle was a prototype with Duple Vega Major 52-seat body and about 30 passengers were on board.
The performance capabilities demonstrated ranged from a level-road maximum speed of just under 70 m.p.h. on MI (about 75 m.p.h. on a down-hill stretch), to a very confident climb of Bison Hill, frequently used in The Commercial Motor road tests, with a minimum speed of 11 m.p.h. on the 1 in 61 section.
The ride quality in both front and rear
seats very closely approached that of vehicles with much more complex suspension systems, both at front and rear. When sampled later with fewer passengers on board, there was some divergence of opinion on its merits so far as the rear seats were concerned but it was certainly Up to the standard: of many more expensive coaches.
The bodywork did not conform to the production specification in a number of features. Among these was sound insulation and it is evident that this will require to be thoroughly carried out to reduce the noise from the Leyland 0.400 engine. On the prototype, the noise level was sufficiently high at medium speeds to require voices to be raised in conversation. It did not appear to increase much as the maximum speed was approached, however. When on the move, vibration was conspicuous by its absence, although some was noted with the engine idling.
Driving the VAL proved to be a very pleasant experience. The power-assisted steering was light and responsive, and gear changing was simplified by good synchromesh and a positive remotecontrol linkage. The brakes were progressive although the pedal travel seemed rather long.
On a value-for-money basis, the Bedford VAL seems very likely to become a familiar sight on the roads.
A.A.T.