Bus commuters who travel to and from Bicol and Northern Samar are in for a treat as Elavil Tours Phils. Inc. (ETPHI) recently took delivery of the first batch of Scania buses comprised of three (3) units of the Scania K360 and one (1) unit of the Scania K400 Touring.
These new buses will stand at the forefront of ETPHI’s fleet of more than 120 buses as they are designed to provide passengers with utmost comfort and convenience and are equipped with state-of-the-art safety systems and smart technologies to improve the driving experience and protect road users.
BJ Mercantile, Inc. (BJM), the exclusive distributor of Scania in the country, is scheduled to complete delivery of ETPHI’s initial order of six (6) units of the Scania K360 and three (3) units of the Scania K400 Touring before the year ends.
Choosing to upgrade with Scania, the world’s leading provider of sustainable transport solutions, is aligned with ETPHI’s mission and vision to provide outstanding transportation services by adopting new technologies and acquiring modern buses and equipment.
“It was an easy decision for us as the buses made by Swedish manufacturer Scania are known worldwide for their reliability, durability, safety, and efficiency. Not to mention we’ve been very impressed with BJM’s track record of excellent after-sales service and
unwavering commitment to ensure spare parts are readily available,” said Adolfo Lo Villamonte, Chief Executive Office of ETPHI.
The 360 horsepower Scania K360 has a bus body built by esteemed local manufacturer Del Monte Motor Works, Inc. This 49-seater bus with 2×2 configuration boasts plush leatherette seats with a cushioned headrest and are reclinable. The bus is also equipped with a well-appointed toilet for maximum convenience.
The 400 horsepower Scania K400 Touring, on the other hand, is fully imported with the bus body manufactured in China through a partnership between Scania and Higer.
It also has 51 seats with 2×2 configuration but this time using imported fabric that breathe and offer excellent comfort. Just like in commercial airplanes, you can stow your hand carry items in the enclosed overhead luggage compartment.
Both models have audio-video onboard so you can watch movies to while away the time and all the seats have its own dedicated USB charging port, so your phone won’t run out of juice during the long trip.
Passenger can also expect a smooth ride as they will hardly feel the bumps on the road thanks to an Electronically Controlled Air Suspension system.
Scania buses also prioritize the safety of drivers, passengers, and the motoring public. ETPHI’s bus drivers will appreciate the eight-speed Scania Opticruise semi-automatic gearbox with three driving modes namely Economy, Standard, and Power.
It is Scania’s automated, clever, intuitive, fast, and smooth gear-changing system that relieves the driver of all work related to changing gears whilst driving, improving driver safety, comfort and fuel economy. They are also equipped with the latest technology to enhance the safety of its passengers and other motorists with features such as Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Speed Limiter, Traction Control, Hill Hold, and Auxiliary Break (retarder).
Another invaluable feature is Scania’s Fleet Management System (FMS) that allows BJM and ETPHI to remotely monitor driver behavior, vehicle data and fleet position, as well as conduct diagnostics to aid in service planning.
“Through FMS, we will be able to work more closely with ETPHI to make sure their buses are in tip-top shape, operates safely and with extreme efficiency, and will have excellent uptime,” said Marc Hizola, Contracts and Connected Services Head of BJM.
To learn more about Scania, you may visit its showroom located at 1132 EDSA Balintawak, Quezon City. You may also call (02) 8361-0088, email scania@bjmerc.com, or visit www.scania.ph or check their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/scaniaphilippines/.
