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Hino Poncho for Qld operator

Clark’s Buses has received a brand new Hino Poncho bus, which is now in service in Holmview in Logan

 

Hino Australia general manager of brand and franchise development Bill Gillespie says Australia is the first overseas market for the Hino Poncho bus outside of Japan, meaning Holmview locals will be the first in Australia to realise its benefits, including quick wheelchair boarding that takes less than a minute.

“We have been working with Hino Japan for several years to identify and introduce the right bus for the community transport market – in addition to its public transport potential, it provides an affordable, flexible option for organisations like aged care providers, schools and universities,” he says.

“There really isn’t another bus like it in the Australian market – this particular bus has a DDA-compliant 18-seat saloon layout including wheelchair provision plus standees.”

Measuring less than seven metres in length and featuring a tight turning radius, the Hino Poncho bus is ideal for narrow streets.

TransLink and Clark’s Buses have selected a bus that is compliant with the Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (DDA), which will come into full effect in 2022.

TransLink deputy director general Matt Longland says the organisation is proud to be leading the way by introducing smart solutions onto the public transport network.

“The Poncho’s innovative design, with its wheelchair friendly access and smaller size, is perfect for the Holmview route and we are really excited to see it in action,” he says.

“The new Holmview route served by the Poncho opens up more opportunities for locals to access jobs or health and education services as well as making it easier to take a trip to the shops.”

Clark’s Buses CEO Graham Davis says the Poncho’s specifications are perfect for the Holmview route and is impressed with its eye-catching design.

“We are delighted to continue our relationship with Hino Australia, a partnership that now spans 38 years,” he says.

 

Hino Poncho features:

  • ABS
  • Air-over-hydraulic brakes
  • Three emergency exit points
  • Excellent field of vision
  • Power steering, telescopic and tilt-adjustable steering column and three-way adjustable seat
  • True two-pedal solution with a five-speed Aisin A500 automatic transmission with torque converter
  • Air bag suspension with shock absorber and stabilisers
  • Three-year or 100,000kmwarranty (whichever comes first)
  • 850mm sliding door featuring touch technology and extra sensors near the entrance to stop the door from closing if there is an obstruction. A door interlock also ensures the door stays closed until the park gear is selected.
  • 8 Rear mounted J05E-TS 4-cylinder common-rail turbo-diesel engine produces 180Hp (132kW) and 530Nm of torque and meets Australian emission standards with a DPR emissions control system.

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