I am writing this while sitting in marcopolo. Volvo buses are a hit in bangalore. Primary reasons being
- Agility - It has extremely good acceleration
- Pleasant interiors
- Sound and pollution proof
- Good gentry and less crowded
Tata's have in general done a good job on Marcopolo as its definately bring a different class of buses in India. In Delhi, old buses are rapidly being replaced by new Maropolo (CNG). Wide an big glass windows gives a good look. I believe introducing marcopolo is generating/adding a new class of riders. Although once you take few rides you would realize Marcopolo's are nowhere close to replacing volvo buses. Although there were news articles of stopping further procurement of volvo buses as:-
I am sure BMTC would have to reconsider such a decision. Marcopolo is a class in between and not a replacement.
Let me compare both in detail on niche items from a riders perspective.
- volvo's are double the cost
- less fuel efficient
- higher maintenance cost
- Import cost added as tax benefit has been removed.
I am sure BMTC would have to reconsider such a decision. Marcopolo is a class in between and not a replacement.
Let me compare both in detail on niche items from a riders perspective.
- Boarding: Volvo has a lower floor without a step while in marcopolo you have to climb one step. For elderly and differently - abled one would consider it to be a point.
- Interiors : Volvo definitely are far better, although at first glance it looks tata copied from volvo.
- Engine noise: Both have engines on rear, but tata's engine is noisy in comparison. But still compared to other tata vehicles(buses), Tata's have done a good job.
- A/C : I found the cooling capacity competitive in 'Bangalore' weather, but fans made far greater noise. I don't think Bangalore conditions are good to compare A/c. So no further comments on it.
- Seating: Very similar to Volvo. Plenty of leg room, with front seats passenger facing (group seating).
- Fare: Is 50/60 % of volvo fare. and about 40/50% more than our regular buses. hence it bringing out a new class of riders in Bangalore.
- Agility : Its important in Bangalore as every one is 'racing' to witch mountain, and in my personal opinion bikes fare the best. While Volvo was no different than a car in agility terms. Marcopolo lacks that agility and feel. Volvo's have quicker pickup.
- Shock absorbers: Comparatively ok but not close to Volvo.
All in all, new Tata buses can be considered a middle path but not a replacement.
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