Over the past 18 months, Melbourne-based operator Alston Coaches has added nine Volvo B8R Euro 6 coaches to its fleet, positioning itself as a loyal customer of the manufacturer and marking the start of a fruitful relationship.
Located in Braeside, Alston Coaches has built a reputation for excellence in private school charters, extended tours, and corporate events.
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Founder Fazlaan Farook, who started the company over 17 years ago, now presides over a fleet of more than 60 buses, emphasising quality and reliability as the cornerstones of his operation.
The recent investment in Volvo Buses reflects a strategic move to align the business with industry-leading technology and service standards.
“Volvo vehicles exude peace of mind for both tour operators and customers,” Farook says.
“During my visit to the Volvo factory in Sweden, I was deeply impressed by the meticulous processes designed to make their buses the pinnacle of safety, reliability, and innovation.
“After witnessing their dedication firsthand, it became clear that Volvo buses stand out as the best in the market, prioritising customer experience above all. This commitment ultimately led to my decision to incorporate them into our fleet.”
The Volvo B8R Euro 6, a model celebrated for its efficiency & reliability, is an ideal fit for operators like Alston Coaches.
With an Irizar i6s body and top-of-the-range specification, these vehicles offer an unparalleled travel experience, featuring reclining Sege seats, passenger reading lights, onboard toilets, wheelchair lifts, and USB charging ports.
From a performance standpoint, the B8R delivers exceptional uptime and fuel efficiency, minimising operating costs and maximising productivity. It’s advanced Euro 6 engine technology ensures reduced emissions, aligning with global sustainability goals and positioning Alston Coaches as a forward-thinking operator.
The successful transition to Volvo was aided with the help of CMV Trucks & Bus, Volvo’s dedicated dealer in Victoria.
CMV Volvo Bus account manager Brad Schulz was especially helpful, playing a pivotal role in understanding Alston Coaches’ unique needs and fostering a productive relationship.
“Brad and the CMV team have been incredibly supportive throughout this process,” Farook says.
“They took the time to understand our business and ensure the vehicles we purchased were tailored to our exact requirements. That level of dedication and attention to detail made all the difference.”
The decision to pivot to Volvo is a bold move for Alston Coaches, reflecting its confidence in Volvo’s product and service offering.
“Making the switch to Volvo wasn’t a decision we took lightly,” Farook says.
“We were looking for a partner who could not only deliver top-quality vehicles but also provide ongoing support and service. Volvo, through CMV Trucks & Buses, has exceeded our expectations on both fronts.”
In an industry where reliability, efficiency, and customer satisfaction are paramount, the collaboration between Alston Coaches and Volvo Bus serves as a testament to the power of partnerships.
“Alston Coaches’ decision to incorporate Volvo into their fleet demonstrates our mutual commitment to sustainability, safety, and delivering an exceptional experience for passengers,” Volvo Buses Australia and New Zealand general manager Mitchell Peden says.