(10 Oct 2024, 12:32 pm)nova347 wrote Probably due to the whole X-Lines branding, new brand = new buses.
True, but back then, a heavily refurbished B9TL with the XLines Moquette (instead of full leather) and better surfaced tables would've still been good.
As for the StreetDeck.....6-7 MPG tearing around country lanes and up / down the hills, or closer to 8-9 MPG on routes where the B9TLs were overkill?
Got to remember GNE trailed potentially fitting GKN modifications to 6084-6117 with 6085 and 6104 as the test vehicles. Obviously didn't go ahead for some reason, but GNE were clearly trying to improve fuel economy on the 56 & 309/310 at the time.
Plus not forgetting that Consett already had experience with the Toon Link & Red Kite B9TLs too.