Sandwell-headquartered bus and coach operator Rotala has bought a new fleet of environmentally friendly vehicles with financing from Manchester-based Shawbrook Bank.

Rotala, which has its base in Tividale, operates commercial and subsidised bus routes for businesses, local authorities, the public and private individuals. It operates bus routes across the region.

Using the £3.2m hire purchase asset ownership facility with Shawbrook Bank it has purchased 19 fuel-efficient, low-emission vehicles. The new buses will provide greater efficiencies, including fuel improvements and lower emissions, as well as additional operational cost savings.

The new fleet has been purchased for Rotala’s Diamond Bus (North West) and Hallmark Connections businesses, part of the wider Rotala Group which services 40 million passenger journeys per year.

As well as improving reliability and performance, the new vehicles will enhance passenger experience with features such as e-leather seating, USB charging points and WiFi. The fleet replaces several older vehicles and removes remove those currently on hire, reducing the average age of the firm’s assets and associated maintenance costs.

Rotala’s aim is to reduce its carbon footprint while strengthening its brand and providing its customers with a reliable and comfortable service.

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