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BLK showcases buses that are ‘proven in service’

While dramatic bus reveals and announcements were all the rage at the Bus and Coach Show, BLK Auto decided to go down a different route

Lined up one after the other, the bus manufacturer decided to utilise its stand space to showcase models that have stood the test of time.

“This year we really wanted to present vehicles that are new but also vehicles that are ‘proven in service’,” BLK Auto operations manager Kylie Bellamy told ABC.

“It was an opportunity to show the diversity BLK offers. We are not your typical ‘off the shelf’ one size fits all manufacturer.

“We build what the customer wants and the vehicles we had on display showcased this.”

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A standout from this idea was the BLK President 3 luxury three-axle battery electric coach. In service since 2022, this build was the first battery electric coach in Australia.

“We have received not only great feedback from those who have driven this model, but also from those simply just having a look,”  BLK Auto national sales manager Mark Nichols told ABC.

“People were amazed at how well it has been performing since its launch in 2022.”

Other models on display included the BLK Citystar Combo body on a Volvo chassis, the BLK President 2 body on a MAN chassis and the BLK President 10 midi coach.

“Our BLK/Volvo Citystar low floor – a project we did together with Port Stephens Coaches – was received particularly well,” Bellamy says.

“People were super impressed in this build and were wowed with the two for three seating and luggage bins in a low floor vehicle.”

The BLK team say they are already starting to get excited for the next iteration of the Show, with plans in the works.

“As part of BLK’s business plan, new model development and upgrades to existing models is critical,” BLK Auto sales and special project manager David Jiear told ABC.

“Planning new models and upgrades, plus the expansion of our spare parts store, are all in our plans over the next two years.

“Bring it on!” 

Read more:

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