Mercedes-Benz hands over final bus in 100-unit order from Putco

17th September 2021 By: Irma Venter - Creamer Media Senior Deputy Editor

Mercedes-Benz hands over final bus in 100-unit order from Putco

Mercedes-Benz Buses has handed over the last unit in a 100-bus order from transport operator Putco.

The delivery of this fleet was staggered into batches from December.

Mercedes-Benz Buses is a brand of Daimler Trucks & Buses Southern Africa.

The new buses comprise the OF1726, front-engine bus chassis equipped with the Marcopolo Torino G7 bus bodywork, and adds to Putco’s fleet of more than 1 850 vehicles. 

Putco is the biggest commuter bus operator in South Africa and transports more than 230 000 commuters daily in and around Mpumalanga, Gauteng and Limpopo.

“The handover of the hundredth Mercedes-Benz bus today, is a culmination of hard work, dedication, and collaboration from both the Larimar/Putco and the Mercedes-Benz Bus teams,” says Larimar/Putco MD Franco Pisapia.

“The first 23 buses were delivered in December and we have already seen happier passengers, as well as a shift in perception from the general public. 

“The company is deriving value for money due to reduced total cost of ownership, a comprehensive maintenance package, outstanding fuel efficiency, and reliability. 

“There is a reduction in on-route breakdowns, providing convenience and consistency in our operations,” notes Pisapia.

“In addition, the new delivery has set the new fleet apart and created excitement among drivers who have taken ownership and pride in driving these buses. 

“This is a huge investment towards a sustainable transport system in our country. We are already discussing our future bus replacement programme, as we continue to strengthen our position in the market.”

The after-sales service to Putco will be supported by the Sandown Commercial Vehicles dealership.