(04 Mar 2020, 1:45 pm)mb134 wrote Obviously there are other factors at play, but I'd suggest the fact that Transdev Blazefield have gone for E400MMCs for The Witch Way and CityZap over the B5TL is a good indication that operators really don't like the B5TL. 

That 6.7L Cummins engine is pretty reliable, and represents a 34% increase in engine size over the B5 - thus less stress on the engine at those higher speeds. If I remember correctly Transdev made a point about the reliability of the E400 running gear in their announcement of the order. 

I don't see too much of an issue, bar perhaps Eldon Square, for coaching stock on the X9/10 - remember that Megabus/National Express serve city centres and similar urban areas frequently with triaxle coaches without issue. The problem is more with accessibility, however the latest stuff from Plaxton addresses that very well. Stagecoach operate coach type stock on any number of routes within Scotland without issue.

Isn't Cityzap getting 6 Cylinder StreetDecks?

TBH, I'd say the most sensible option for the X9/X10 would be coaches if GNE can get a good service life out of then and or resale value.

The next best option would be 8x Scania E400MMC (incl 1x spare). I'd even go as far to spec any new vehicles with full coach seating.

Will 6334/35 end up at Chester Le Street / Washington when no longer needed as spares for the X9 / X10?