Increased luxury is hallmark of Duple's 1972 coaches
Page 36
If you've noticed an error in this article please click here to report it so we can fix it.
by Derek Moses • Better seats and a warm-tone interior trim are prime standard specification features for 1972 season coaches from Duple Coachbuilders Ltd, while the range of chassis to which Duple bodies can be fitted has been doubled. Another major feature is a completely redesigned instrument panel and switches layout, determined by a careful study of ergonomic and safety requirements of the driver.
The principal model remains the Viceroy, which first appeared in July 1966, was subjected to styling improvements in 1968, and was extended to heavy-duty chassis last year when production of the Commander body ceased as part of Duple's rationalization plans. For the smaller Bedford VAS and the long-established Bedford SB chassis, the 29-seat Vista and 41-seat Vega bodies respectively remain in production; already restyled externally for the 1971 season, they will now incorporate the interior improvements made to the Viceroy.
Indeed, virtually no changes have been made to the exterior styling for 1972 production, the current design of all models incorporating some of the best features from the erstwhile Commander III. Operators looking for radical changes in Duple coaches, following the company's takeover by Frank. B. Ford last September, will probably have to wait until next year's Commercial Motor Show.
Mr Ford's philosophy, which he outlined to me some time ago, is that the Viceroy's greatest asset is its external appearance, but internally he feels it looks rather bare compared with some of its competitors. The purpose of the design exercise for 1972 was to overcome this drawback. The improved seats use a new specification of Dunlopillo latex Mini which provides a softer cushion withoui entailing any impairments to the wearini properties of the upholstery. Reshaping of the seat back now incorporates concavit3 near the base to provide better latera support for passengers. Stout "high-g' pedestals are still used; the range o moquette patterns has been extended to 17.
The styling of the interior trim has alS( been made more luxurious, and thd solid-base parcel racks are surrounded witi fin. foam padding covered with welded Anil)la pvc preformed in a linear-fluted block pattern after the fashion of pv upholstery. To give a warmer impressior the vynide sections can be golden brow instead of fawn, and red floor covering i offered as an alternative to brown. Beige c oyster grey are available as alternatives t golden brown for the ceiling centre panels.
A teakwood-grained polished melamin panel has been provided as an attractiN centre relief to the underside of the pare racks; individual jet vents are located c this panel when forced air ventilation specified and/or reading light consoles. Tt blower units are now located over tt mid-section of the racks, offering improvc performance and ease of maintenance of ti motors.
Other improvements include all handrai