Setra set for breakthrough down under
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KASSBOHRER has launched its Imperial double-deck coach on to the Australian coach market. The model is the first Setra and the first long-distance double-decker to be offered in Australia. Axle weight restrictions mean that the vehicle will be available with seating capacity reduced to 65.
The Imperial is marketed by Austral, a local buk builder. An initial batch of 21 Imperials have been ordered and are being slopped complete from the KHssbohrer plant at Ulm in West Germany. At least five operators are said to have placed firm orders for Austral Imperials.
Design modifications for Australian conditions include specifying the new ZF seven speed manual gearbox and replacing the single-tyred third axle with a double-tyred 'lazy' axle ahead of the driven axle.
Austral intends to build Imperials from CKD kits supplied from Germany in future and has long-term plans for complete production at its plant in Geebung, Queensland.
MCW in Britain is also looking at the Australian market for its Metro-Liner double-decker which is already being promoted in Australia as the MCW Intercity by another Australian coachbuilder, Anseair — a division of the Amen Transport group which has interests in coach and ail transport operations.
Like the Imperial, the MCW would have to be ,.)TIered with reduced Seating capacity to meet axle requirements. MCW is looking at the engineering modifications necessary before an Australian demonstrator can be built. MCW says that interest in its double-deck coach by Australian operators is encouraging and operators are particularly impressed by the saloon headrooms possible.
Its sees supplying that market as practical as its engine
supplier, Cummins, is already strongly represented. AS is trasmission supplier Voith.