The Volksbus 18.320 EOT on show at the IAA 2010 is powered by a 235-kW (320-hp) six-cylinder diesel engine with common-rail injection, coupled with a six-speed automatic transmission with retarder for economical driving. The engines from Cummins have a capacity of 8,270 cm³ and develop their maximum torque of 1,288 Nm in the wide speed range of 1,300 to 1,600 rpm. The result: high driving performance with few gear changes. The passengers are only too happy with the very quiet engines. The engines comply with the Euro 3 exhaust-gas standard and can also be operated on biodiesel, which is widely used in South America. Automatic transmission takes the strain off the clutch and off the drivers, relieving them of the work of changing gear.

VW Volksbus 18.320 EOT with building Irizar

The boogie chassis with its transfer wheelbase of 3,000 mm gets top marks for its modularity with an unladen weight of several hundred kilograms less than its competitors. The air-sprung Meritor axles and light alloy wheels also make their contribution in this respect.

In the cockpit module, drivers will quickly find an ergonomically suitable seating position that allows them to work without becoming fatigued. The steering wheel, which can be adjusted in two dimensions, helps here.

VW chassis Volksbus 18.320 EOT