[GB] The (real) new Solo

After 10 years of production run, Optare has introduced a complete makeover of its successful Solo midibus, naming new version as Solo SR. Although it retains the unique shape of the "classic" Solo, this new version has a more curvy body that resembles its larger sisters, the Versa and Tempo, and in fact shares a lot of parts with these 2 types as well. The drivetrain is essentially similar to the Solo classic, with 3 choices of engine coupled to an Allison transmission. Although it doesn't look as cute as the Solo classic, the Solo SR looks like it has a lot of added quality in it

Preston Bus has the honour as the first customer of the Solo SR, ordering 8 examples to replace the same number of older Solos on the park & ride service in the city of Preston. These buses, entered service during the end of May, have leather seats and wood-effect floor (i.e. not real wood), and powered by a Euro-5 Mercedes OM904 engine.

At the moment, Optare is offering both the Solo classic (including the SE version) and Solo SR, although the latter costs 10% more. The general expectation is the SR will eventually be offered in the full Solo range and replaces the classic version in the long run.

To be honest, I much prefer the original version! This new version looks a bit weird except the back, which looks a lot better than the original version.

原帖由 VolvoB7TL 於 2008-6-8 09:38 發表
To be honest, I much prefer the original version! This new version looks a bit weird except the back, which looks a lot better than the original version.

I actually think it will look a lot better if it has an upright blind box like most of the classic Solos. This SR doesn't look as good, but it's way better than the odd looking Versa.

But I think being the new solo, there is a need to give the bus a new look, mostly a tremendous one
to signify the change.
I do like its new look!
As time passes until we get used to it, it will be OK.

原帖由 NV58 於 2008-6-8 20:38 發表


I actually think it will look a lot better if it has an upright blind box like most of the classic Solos. This SR doesn't look as good, but it's way better than the odd looking Versa.

Compare with the Versa, the new Solo definitely looks good! I am wondering who is the designer for Optare these days!!! Is he/she lack of ideas or just wants to create something striking/revolutionary?!

老實講…我覺得似係『非士笠』多過似係改款…