(11 Feb 2016, 8:13 pm)S813 FVK wrote Think people may be missing the point slightly? The vehicle doesn't need to be purchased to become the spare vehicle. Yes it can't be repainted but there is nothing stopping them from using it for that purpose.
But at the same time, Wrightbus are going to want that bus back eventually to sell as dealer stock to a bus operator. This bus presently remaining in the fleet is probably to support the product launch of the new Wright StreetDecks, much like the Optare Solo on loan to Hexham Depot.
The longer that is in use with Go North East, the more it will depreciate in value. I would expect it to depreciate at a rate of £15,000/year, so for Wrightbus to make a return on the vehicle, they will want to sell it fairly soon.