Setting the standard in Hampshire...

Together with finance specialist Dawsongroup bus and coach Ltd, Alexander Dennis have supplied another five Enviro400 double-deck buses to English independent operator XelaGroup.

Xelabus was founded in 2010 and today is one of the largest independent operators in Hampshire. It began using high-capacity, 11.5m-length Enviro400 in 2022 and with the latest addition of a further five buses, now has 18 of the type in its modern fleet.

With 85 seats, wheelchair access and full PSV Accessibility Regulations (PSVAR) compliance, Xelabus has the flexibility to use the double-decker buses on school and college contracts, private hires and rail replacement work as needed. The buses’ specification includes three-point belts at all fixed seats, USB charging ports for passengers, radio and public address systems, as well as digital tachographs.

Xelabus founder and Managing Director Gareth Blair said: “This year, Xelabus is celebrating 15 years in business and we’ve continuing to invest in new staff as well as new buses. This supports the award of several new college contracts, for which the Enviro400 is extremely well suited thanks to its high passenger capacity in a reliable and easy-to-maintain base vehicle. It has been great to work with Alexander Dennis and Dawsongroup bus and coach to add these latest five examples to our fleet.”

Mark Taylor, Regional Sales Manager for Alexander Dennis, said: “We’re delighted to continue supporting Xelabus with high-capacity, versatile vehicles that meet the needs of their growing operations. The Enviro400 is a proven performer, and it’s fantastic to see it playing a key role in Xelabus’s success across school, college and rail replacement services. Our ongoing collaboration with Dawsongroup bus and coach ensures operators like Xelabus can access reliable buses with flexible financing options.”

Jason Claridge, Regional Sales Manager South & South East for Dawsongroup bus and coach, said: “It’s been an absolute pleasure working with Gareth and the team at Xelabus as we continue to build and strengthen our strategic partnership, supplying five new Alexander Dennis Enviro400. These vehicles will be instrumental in serving local community colleges and schools, where safety, comfort, and low emissions are critical.

“With the support of Alexander Dennis, we were able to deliver the vehicles on time, and in traditional Xelabus livery, meeting contract start dates, and providing a high standard of service that Xelabus is known for.”