Volvo B7RLE
| Volvo B7RLE | |
|---|---|
|
|
| Overview | |
| Manufacturer | Volvo Buses |
| Production | 2001–present |
| Body and chassis | |
| Doors | 1, 2 or 3 sets of doors |
| Floor type | Low entry |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | Volvo D7C/D7E |
| Capacity | 31 to 50 seated |
| Power output | 250hp, 275hp, 290hp |
| Transmission | Voith D864.3E/D864.5 Volvo I-Shift ZF Ecomat/EcoLife |
| Dimensions | |
| Length | various from 10.0m to 12.0m |
| Width | 2.5m |
| Height | 3.0m |
| Chronology | |
| Predecessor | Volvo B10BLE |
| Successor | Volvo B8RLE (European market) |
Volvo B7RLE is a low-entry single-decker bus chassis manufactured by Volvo Buses since 2001. In markets where the Euro VI emission requirements are enforced, it was replaced by the B8RLE in 2013 in some markets.
B7RLE is similar to its predecessor, the B10BLE. In essence the B7RLE is the front section of the B7L chassis mated with the rear section of the B7R chassis. Originally, the B7RLE featured the D7C 6-cylinder, 7.3-litre diesel engine with a turbocharger and intercooler, producing 250 or 275 bhp and meeting the Euro III incentive emission standard. This was replaced by the 7.1-litre Volvo D7E engine producing 290 bhp, to Euro IV/Euro V/Euro III incentive emission standards. Unlike the B7L, the B7RLE's engine is mounted at the center of the rear overhang as opposed to the nearside, resolving the issue of engine intrusion into the saloon. The Volvo B7RLE is also equipped with disc brakes and ABS.
B7RLE was launched in mainland Europe and Australia in 2001, and then in the United Kingdom in 2003 to supplement the B7L single-decker, which was unsuccessful in both countries. The B7RLE appealed more to UK operators, with whom the B7L was unpopular and has sold well compared to its predecessor. UK operators of the B7RLE include Arriva, FirstGroup, East Yorkshire Motor Services, Blazefield Group, Rosso, Wilts & Dorset, Warrington Borough Transport and Go North East, Lothian Buses and National Express West Midlands. Initially the B7RLE was only available in the UK with Wright Eclipse Urban bodywork. Since 2004 it has also been used as a low-floor single-decker coach, with a longer front overhang and Wright Eclipse Commuter body. From late 2006 the B7RLE in the UK is available with Plaxton Centro bodywork followed by Alexander Dennis Enviro300 and Optare Esteem bodywork in 2008.
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