Familiar good characteristics: powerful engines and safe designs

For the drive system, VDL Bus & Coach continues to depend on powerful six cylinder inline engines from DAF. For the 2-axle models, the Euro 5 or EEV engines from the PR and MX series are the first choice. With their 361 and 410 hp, they provide high performance in combination with low fuel consumption. The most powerful engine, rated at 460 hp, is reserved for the 3-axle high deck models and with 2,300 Nm of torque provides convincing power even at low rpm. The automatic AS Tronic transmission eases the driver’s job and selects the right gear in any situation, while the exceptionally quiet ZF rear axle ensures optimal engine speeds thanks to gear ratios that are perfectly matched to practical driving situations.

Among the good characteristics for which VDL is known are the high level of driving safety and comfortable transport. The New Futura with its high-quality chassis also fulfils this expectation. Thanks to a top quality independent front suspension, a precisely linked rear axle and ECAS
(electronically controlled air suspension), the Futura possesses superior road-handling capabilities. With the stabiliser at the rear axle that resists torquing around the vertical axis, the Futura also presents itself as an extremely comfortable coach that makes travelling a pleasure. The EBS brake system satisfies the most demanding requirements: with disc brakes all round and the brake assistant, the service brake can handle any traffic situation. During an emergency the ESC electronic stability program employs independent braking of the individual wheels to prevent the vehicle from skidding or tipping.

New cockpit with top-level automotive quality

For the driver of the New Futura, the new cockpit is a true pleasure. Major plus-points are the luxurious driver’s seat with large adjustment range and the adjustable steering wheel. The attractive, single piece, two-colour dashboard is an exceptionally high-quality construction. The right side tapers off to give the driver a good view of the area outside the front right corner of the coach. The ergonomic operating concept for the driver’s workplace has been completely redeveloped, ensuring that all control elements and switches are easily accessible. Naturally the Futura is also equipped with a separate climate control system for the driver’s area and passenger compartment. The tour guide has a comfortable sitting area with ample storage space and all the control elements at hand’s reach.

The first Futura models are currently in production at the Dutch factory in Valkenswaard where they are being built with an advanced manufacturing method. Special modules, including entire vehicle platforms, side walls, roofs and front modules, come off the assembly line in complete, pre- assembled form. Last but not least, a few words about the durability: the Futura will remain impervious to corrosion for many years, since virtually all the steel components are made of stainless steel. Only proven technologies and components are used – the collective know-how amassed by the VDL Bus & Coach subsidiaries over many decades all flows together during production of the New Futura.

The new cockpit

Fotos und Text:
VDL Bus & Coach
Video-Clip:
BUS TV