Now here's one in the eye for all thiose Aussie and Kiwis droning on about their great big roadtrains operating in subtropical conditions! Get a load of this baby guys! yes Bigloryblgo can exclusively reveal that The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew has taken delivery of one of the most specialised Iveco Daily light commercials operating anywhere in the UK---and here it is the ultimate Daily roadTRAIN....
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Named 'Explorer II', it hauls a train of three, 24-person carriages and provides the perfect introduction to Kew Gardens' 326 acres. Explorer II (there's also an Explorer I) operatos on a round-robin route lasting some 40 minutes and making eight stops close to buildings and areas of interest.
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Kew's ultimate people mover began life as a regular Daily 35C12 AGile chassis cab before being converted by Electromec Services in Southampton. The modifications saw the wheelbase shortened to 2.2m and the rear axle replaced with an FPW double reduction axle offering a 10:1 ratio. It's also got a two-line air brake circuit for the carriages plus an air handbrake system which operates a spring brake on the tractor and all carriages, sufficient to hold the full 15 tonne gross vehicle weight! Now click through here for more and ANOTHER Daily roadtrain that's set for a real 'lift-off'....
And this one has been operating at the Imperial War Museum's Duxford site since 2005 (one of Biglorryblog's favourite days out..)
Meanwhile, back to Kew, the PR blurb tells BLB: ".Built to operate solely around RBG Kew, the Daily's wheel sensors have been re- engineered to ensure the automated gearbox operates within the low speed parameters required. This enables the Explorer II to reach a cruising speed of 12mph in fourth gear at 2,000 revs, although maximum speed within the Gardens rarely exceeds 4mph, with the 2.3 litre HPI engine delivering up to 116 hp and guaranteeing a smooth and comfortable ride for both driver and passengers. The cab also features a PA system with 100v line connections to the trailer speakers, enabling the driver to provide a commentary on the history and work of RBG Kew, especially in relation to science, education and conservation."
Mary Done, Kew Explorer Manager, at RBG Kew, tells BLB: "The Kew Explorer service has been running for ten years and one of our lead units was coming up for renewal. e approached Electromec Services who recommended the Iveco for this application, having completed a similar project in recent years where the Daily has excelled. The Explorer II can accommodate up to 72 passengers, including space for pushchairs and a wheelchair, and operates 363 days a year. In addition to the daily public tours, it is also used on special tours for weddings, corporate clients, schools, and to assist special needs visitors in enjoying the full scope of the Gardens," she adds."
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