(23 Feb 2014, 1:59 pm)andreos1 wrote Which SPD's have lived for 15 years?
Genuine question as I thought the oldest in the fleet was the X reg examples from 2000/2001
Using the comparison of an R reg Renown, they were here in 1998 and should outlive the oldest SPD (having outlasted the majority of batches bought since).
I agree, the cost analysis will be done over a different period of time - but two purchases of a cheaper lightweight vehicle lasting a combined 24 years, possibly works out more expensive longer term than two heavyweight vehicles lasting 30years (hard to tell given inflation).
Given the 30 year duration of two heavyweight vehicles, you need to purchase 2 ½ lighter vehicles to cover the same period.
The oldest SPD in the fleet which has only just been withdrawn is 8221 - new in 1999, it was withdrawn in 2014. It should have been withdrawn in 2011, but has lived for three further years.
The R-reg Renowns would have only lasted for one year longer than they should have, so they haven't really 'outlived' the SPDs in the sense that most are only going to be withdrawn a few months after they should have been.
It really isn't a case of lightweight vs heavyweight, because the "Citylink" branded Versas (lightweight) should be withdrawn in 15 years' time, just like the "Connections4" branded Mercs (heavyweight).