(24 Jan 2016, 1:45 pm)Dan wrote Full size single-decks have an expected life span of 15 years, while midibuses (8xxx series fleet numbers) only have an expected life span of 12 years, so the '04 plate DAF SB120s which have been withdrawn this year are being withdrawn in line with their expected life span. These are more expensive to maintain, so makes sense to withdraw them as soon as possible.
I personally would also like to see the remaining dual-door Volvo B10BLEs withdrawn, as I've never been particularly fond of the vehicles in the fleet with a dual-door configuration, with it being non-standard in the region.
The 04 Plate Cadets are VDL SB120s from 2004 while the Merits despite being registered the same year where built around late 2002 early 2003 like 8242-8252, one way to tell this is by the DAF chassis plate next to the door instead of a VDL one fitted in ones manufactured after the 2004 takeover.
So actually makes them older than the Cadets that GNE are replacing first and most are in Worse condition than the Cadets they replaced at Washington.