MCV, the Egyptian-based bodybuilder, is broadening its Evolution single-deck range in a deal with the Arriva Bus & Coach dealership to bring the Dutch-built VDL SB180 to the UK. It has also confirmed plans to enter the UK coach and double-deck bus markets. The Arriva deal is ideal for both partners. It reduces MCV's dependence on existing chassis partners Alexander Dennis, which supplies it with specific models within its Enviro200 Dart range, and MAN, which supplies its 12.240 and 14.240. Arriva has been unable until now to bring the six-cylinder Cummins-engined SB180 to the UK, as Wrightbus and Plaxton - which bodied the four-cylinder SB120 predecessor - saw limited potential for what had become an expensive chassis. Linking up with MCV provides it with a proven, British-designed stainless steel body built in Egypt where labour costs are US$4 (￡2.55) an hour. The deal also presents MCV with little commercial risk, as Arriva will supply the chassis and take responsibility for the complete vehicles when they are arrive in England. In line with the dealership's policy across its entire bus and coach range, it will have a Euro5 engine.
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