Edwards Coaches has announced details of a huge fleet investment plan. It will result in the arrival of 86 new coaches in an investment of over £32 million as the South Wales business observes “a positive outlook in 2024.”
The bulk of that total is accounted for by 68 Caetano Levante 3A models built on tri-axle Scania chassis that will be deployed on Edwards’ National Express services. That represents a spend of £25.7 million. The first Levantes were delivered towards the end of 2023 for use from depots in Llantrisant and Swansea. The remainder will arrive “throughout the course of 2024,” the operator says.
In a notable further development, Edwards has ordered 10 Van Hool Altano overdeck coaches, also for use on National Express work. Such a purchase marks a return to the National Express fold for Van Hool after many years away. Each of the Altanos will cost £480,000 and they are expected to arrive in June.