ABC has launched a new refurbishment program to add years of service with an exciting array of applications to the proven Van Hool TD925 double-deck bus. The program offers a number of refurbishment options to key market segments including traditional tour and charter operators, the day tour and sightseeing business, as well as a “conversion” model with customer-selected options for a variety of corporate users, professional sports teams and the conversion enthusiast. Since its market entry in 2008, the high-capacity, 81-seat coach is built by Van Hool for robust performance — a key consideration in ABC’s decision to provide this model for extended revenue service.
According to Roman Cornell, who envisioned the program and heads the company’s Specialty Vehicles Division, “customer response has been very positive and validates our strategy to offer a broader commercial application to the secondary market. These units are proven performers offering all the durability of a true double-deck bus, plus many exciting features for the sightseeing market segment. Why not extend the lifecycle of a viable market leader and offer a product that can still provide years of dependable revenue service?” states Cornell.
Currently plans are in the works for the following coach offerings:
A traditional Charter Fleet Refurbishment Option will offer operators a refurbished TD925 unit that has undergone a rigorous multi-point inspection for mechanical and engineering components. Additionally, the coaches will feature a number of interior and aesthetic upgrades that will provide a refreshed, service-ready vehicle to operators.
The TD925 Sky Deck Refurbishment Option converts the proven double-deck to an open-top sightseeing bus that offers many exclusive features including up to 85 passenger capacity – that’s 15 more seats than standard open-top competitors. And unlike competing models, the Van Hool TD925 Sky Deck offers a true double-deck design with a robust suspension system designed and built to carry two levels of flooring, seating and passengers safely. With extensive experience in coach body and mechanical services, ABC’s in-house team has successfully reintroduced the new TD925 Sky Deck model. The roof is removed and the top deck is taken down to its original wall frame structure and composite flooring. New perimeter wall panels and deck drains are installed to allow water to escape from the top deck area while keeping the lower level out of the elements. Seat tracks are installed to receive 61 new weatherproof seats that feature standard seatbelts which are not typically offered in an open-top sightseeing bus. Next, the interior walls and deck of the upper level is prepped for installation of a proven weatherproof two part hybrid modified polyurea seamless coating system and slip-resistant floor. Finally a stainless steel perimeter safety railing is installed. Downstairs, the upholstery is renewed offering customers a choice of seating fabric colors.
A variety of standard features include:
- Seatbelts
- A/C on lower level
- Restroom equipped
- PA system equipped
- Low-floor ADA accessibility
- Aluminum wheels
- Paint and graphic design
Upon completion of refurbishment, the sleek TD925 Sky Deck is ready for sightseeing duty and intracity tours. With plans set to carry a limited number of stock units, the revamped TD925 Sky Deck has already proven to be a very popular program.
Finally a third “Conversion” Option will be built featuring both a second “open deck” and third deck “Race Deck” design. Offered to appeal to corporate customers, professional sports teams and high-end tailgaters, the Race Deck design offers customers custom build-outs in a limousine-type interior that features all the comforts of home. A flowing design will house comfortable living space that provides a full kitchen, dinette with seating for six and powder room facilities. Passengers can relax and enjoy the “main event” — be it NASCAR, college or pro-sport tailgating, corporate outings, etc., from a custom “Race Deck” that features a collapsible roof railing or from the “open deck” which provides an ideal outdoor space for round-table seating for six and stairs to access the lower deck level. Indoor accommodations include a master bedroom with front windshield view, a full-size bath and two additional bunks. The race deck can be custom-configured to any customer preference. ABC plans on building a demo unit that will be available for test and inspection in Q3-4 of 2015.
For complete information about the Van Hool TD925 Refurbishment Program and specialty model options, please contact Roman Cornell, Executive Vice-President at 800-222-2871 or rmcornell@abc-companies.com.