Optare, Ashok Leyland’s subsidiary in the UK, has launched the MetroDecker, its new double- decker bus in London. Designed and built at a modern assembly facility in Leeds, the MetroDecker leverages Optare’s extensive experience and engineering capabilities and boasts exceptional build-quality, comfort and optimised operational efficiency.

The vehicle shares a common platform with its single-deck siblings and has been designed to deliver improved fuel economy and increased customer comfort. Speaking at the launch, G P Hinduja, co-chairman of the Hinduja Group, said, “We are extremely proud that Optare is transforming itself into a truly international company. In the first phase, Ashok Leyland invested heavily in upgrading Optare’s capabilities by consolidating production in an all-new manufacturing facility in Leeds. As part of the second phase, Ashok Leyland is supporting the development of a new series of products that will open more markets for Optare.”

Enrico Vassallo, CEO, Optare, said: “The MetroDecker represents the evolution of Optare design and quality standards. We have worked hard to assess and evaluate every part of the vehicle to ensure it is as efficient as possible, consolidating parts, reducing complexity and removing duplication. All this has been achieved with real-world fuel savings and outstanding safety and customer comfort at the top of our agenda. With clean lines, uncluttered view of destinations and route numbers, direct access to an extra-large wheelchair area, ample space for multiple buggies, the MetroDecker ensures optimal customer comfort”.

Vinod K Dasari, MD, Ashok Leyland, said: “We are very happy to be a part of this new, second phase of Optare and commit our full support to them. The MetroDecker is a completely integral bus and a critical product in this new series. I am sure customers will find great value in this product.”