Mellor Maxima

Mellor Maxima
Overview
ManufacturerMellor Coachcraft
Production2016–
AssemblyRochdale, Greater Manchester
Body and chassis
ClassSingle-decker bus
LayoutFront-engine, front-wheel drive
Doors1
Floor typeStep-entrance
ChassisIveco Daily
Powertrain
Engine170 bhp (130 kW), 3.0-litre Iveco diesel
Transmission8-speed ZF fully automatic
6-speed Iveco manual
Dimensions
Wheelbase4.75 m (15.6 ft)
Length8.54 m (28.0 ft)
Height2.84 m (9.3 ft)
Kerb weight7,200 kg (7.2 t), GVW

The Mellor Maxima is a step-entrance minibus bodywork produced by Mellor Coachcraft on Iveco Daily chassis since 2016.[1] With a capacity of up to 31 passenger seats, eight wheelchair bays or a combination of both,[2] the Maxima is aimed at local authorities providing accessible transport and community transport.[3]

The Maxima was launched in 2016, in response to the discontinuation of the popular Mercedes-Benz Vario chassis and its minibus variants in the United Kingdom, such as the Plaxton Beaver. Intended to fill the same market, the Maxima features a flat floor interior which is accessed by a stepped entry at the front or a rear wheelchair lift.[3] The Maxima was initially only available on diesel Iveco Daily chassis; in 2021, a fully-electric variant known as the Mellor Maxima E23 was announced, but has not yet entered production. The Maxima E23 will feature a maximum passenger capacity of 23 seated, with a range of 99 miles (160 km) from an 80 kWh battery pack.[4]

The Maxima has seen strong sales with local councils in the United Kingdom since its introduction, with customers including Dumfries and Galloway Council[5] and Hackney London Borough Council.[6]

References

  1. ^ "Maxima is a midi milestone from Mellor". Route One Magazine. 20 April 2016. Retrieved 12 June 2022.
  2. ^ "Specialist Bus Brochure" (PDF). Mellor Coachcraft. Retrieved 12 June 2022.
  3. ^ a b "Presenting the new Mellor Maxima". Mellor Coachcraft. 29 January 2016. Retrieved 12 June 2022.
  4. ^ Randall, Chris (3 June 2021). "Mellor expands electric bus range by two new models". Electrive. Retrieved 12 June 2022.
  5. ^ "Dumfries and Galloway Council's two Maximas". Route One Magazine. 9 March 2017. Retrieved 12 June 2022.
  6. ^ Williams, Mark (23 March 2022). "Light heavyweight contender". Bus & Coach Buyer. Retrieved 12 June 2022.