VDL BOVA delivers unique 'Limo Bus'

In mid-January 2007, the unique 'Limo Bus' was delivered to Greek client 'Greek Limo Bus' in Athens. A Magiq MHD 139 in a version that can best be described as a limousine bus, a new dimension in VIP transport.

'Limo Bus' concept

The Event Makers Company has been active in the Greek tourist market for more than 10 years. Countless numbers of requests for a super deluxe bus, both within the country and abroad, have led to the concept 'Limo Bus'. Not just a luxury bus, but a luxurious mobile conference room, outfitted with all imaginable comforts and equipped with the most advanced audio/video equipment.

Greek Limo Bus, a daughter of the Event Makers Company, was established just for this purpose. The honour of giving form to the 'Limo Bus' concept was entrusted to VDL BOVA, in close collaboration with Greek Limo Bus and Petropoulos, VDL BOVA's Greek distributor.

Driver's compartment

The Magiq MHD 139, with a length of 13.9 metres, is outfitted with a complete infrastructure for meetings, presentations and teleconferences and is equipped with everything needed for direct communication with the outside world. The bus is divided into 2 compartments. The driver's compartment is completely separated from the passenger area. The driver can monitor, and when necessary control, all the functions of the passenger area from behind the wheel. Through use of closed-circuit cameras, the driver can see what is happening in the passenger compartment. The front windscreen is equipped with an LCD monitor that can be used, among other things, to display advertisements. A separate PC unit for the tour guide is mounted beside the passenger seat.

A camera on the front of the bus and 23" LCD screens in the passenger area allow everyone to follow the route while underway.

Passenger compartment

The passengers are afforded optimal seating comfort by 29 extremely luxurious seats in a 2+1 arrangement. Every seat is accompanied by a table. The 2-person seats have fixed tables, while the 1-person seats have fold-away tables. The 1-person seats also swivel on their base. Every seat has a 110/220/12 Volt connection and a network connection for personal electronic devices such as a mobile phone charger or a laptop. The individual audio system offers a choice of 8 channels including digital TV, DVD, CD, radio stations and iPod. Each station is equipped with a headphone jack, and all audio is in Dolby Surround. A 9" TFT LCD screen is built into the back of every seat.

At the rear of the bus is a conference table for 7-10 people. Four 23" LCD screens, located throughout the bus, make it possible for everyone to follow a presentation. These presentations can be made via one of the two laptops or the main server. The entire network has access to cable and satellite connections. Fixed and wireless microphones, a fax, a colour printer, a copy machine, a scanner, telephone via Internet, and VoIP (Voice over IP) for the computer fans make the facilities complete.

The chairperson of the conference, sitting at the head of the conference table, can control and monitor all the functions. Special spotlights above the conference table can be dimmed to provide optimal lighting. In addition, blinds in the entire passenger area can be lowered during a presentation to prevent interference from bright daylight.

The crème de la crème

Wood and leather in warm shades of colour combined with black give the interior a luxurious and exceedingly pleasant atmosphere. The floor is also finished in wood. A special kitchen unit was designed for the 'Limo Bus' that would not be out of place in many a luxury apartment. It is truly equipped with every kitchen convenience: a dishwasher, a microwave oven, a refrigerator with freezer compartment, an ice maker, a sink with a mixing tap, and even a tap for cooled mineral water, coffee machines for regular coffee as well as espresso and cappuccino, and warming units for meals. The toilet was also specially designed for the 'Limo Bus', matching the overall design style of the interior and providing uncommon comfort.

To ensure continuous climate control, the bus is equipped with 2 standard air conditioning units and its own generator. The baggage area includes a generous wardrobe. Naturally the Magiq conforms to the most stringent safety requirements. It is also equipped with a track & trace system and an access control system.

Extremely versatile

With the 'Limo Bus', Greek Limo Bus intends to serve a very broad, primarily business public, by accommodating required travel while providing luxury and comfort for both work and relaxation.

PRESS RELEASE VDL Bus & Coach, Eindhoven, 5 February 2007