(20 Dec 2015, 1:35 pm)Dan wrote Including the two X66/X67 branded examples, there are six MAX specification VDL Pulsars in the fleet at Stockton.
Would it not make more sense to allocate these six vehicles as first point of call, followed by the Sapphire specification VDL Pulsar, assuming it is not required for the 5/5A? That way, the premium features advertised on the X12 service would still be available, while other services it interworks with are upgraded?
It really puts Arriva at risk of customers claiming 'no quibble' money back guarantees, on the basis that they haven't had the premium features advertised on their journey.
7 buses still won't cover the amount of boards that works X12s. On a Sunday there are 12 27 running boards and only 2 of those don't work any trips on the X12. So, in effect, you'll still end up with at least 3 vehicles that aren't to 'MAX' standard. However, don't forget, Stockton has 7 unbranded standard Pulsars fitted with WiFi (1457-60/91/2/4) so they can effectively cover the boards.