Thirty Six Fuso Fighters for Ritchies Coachlines

Ritches Coachlines new Fighter

Northland Fuso dealer Keith Andrews has supplied eight Fighter units to Ritchies Coachlines and will supply 28 more by the end of the year.

Destined for school rounds, the 5.5 tonne 4x2 Fighter units are fitted with a 48-seat bus body, custom built by Christchurch's Designline. Ritchies managing director Andrew Ritchie is thrilled with the result.

"New Zealand's bus fleet is rapidly aging and new regulation requires significant investment from operators," he said. "In the medium term, we estimate we'll need in excess of 180 new buses and the quality and cost efficiency of this solution is very pleasing."

With affordable Japanese imports falling outside the new regulations and the cost of running larger buses uneconomical, the conversions have saved Ritchies a massive 37% in operating costs while providing safe, comfortable transport for customers.

"Between the factory suspension and sway bars, and the care Designline took to keep the centre of gravity down, the ride quality is a good fit for purpose," said Mr Ritchie. "The drivers like them and the gearbox is easy to use. To keep our fleet to a high standard we'd expect to roll them over in around 10 years."

He's also delighted with the service from Keith Andrews Trucks (KAT) and Fuso.

"KAT came up with the best deal when we went out to tender for the truck and chassis. Ever since, Keith, his team and Fuso have been great to deal with. I've been most impressed by their dedication and commitment. We've spent millions of dollars building hundreds of vehicles over the years and seldom do suppliers bother to deliver vehicles in person. Keith did and I value that."