Al-Futtaim Auto and Machinery Company (FAMCO), part of Al-Futtaim Automotive and one of the region’s leading distributors of heavy vehicles, commercial vehicles and machinery, has set a new precedent in the UAE’s public transportation sector through the launch of the Volvo Smart Bus at the UITP MENA Transport Congress & Exhibition.
Organised by Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) in collaboration with the International Association of Public Transport, this year’s event theme ‘Sustainable Mobility and Wellbeing’ underlines the UAE’s extended Year of Sustainability and continued commitment to climate change action on the heels of a historic COP28 that concluded with a momentous UAE Consensus on transitioning towards sustainable alternatives. Al-Futtaim Group was the Strategic E-Mobility Partner of COP28, and provided electric buses for use during the event.
At the UITP MENA Transport Congress & Exhibition 2024, the newly unveiled Volvo Smart Bus is taking centre-stage with its cutting-edge technology and customisations specifically to meet the unique requirements of the UAE. FAMCO demonstrated the Volvo Smart Bus’s exceptional performance, underpinned by over a decade of proven reliability of Volvo chassis and propulsion systems in the UAE’s challenging urban environment.
Key features of the Volvo Smart Bus included:
- Innovative Volvo Chassis: Equipped with a powerful B8RLE chassis boasting 350 HP and the new ZF Ecolife II 6AP1420B transmission, the Volvo Smart Bus ensured optimal performance and efficiency on Dubai’s roads.
- Advanced Safety Systems: The Volvo Active Safety Platform 3 (VASP3) incorporated state-of-the-art driver assistance systems, enhancing passenger safety and confidence.
- Enhanced Driver Experience: A new Volvo Digital Driver Cluster provided intuitive driver information and ergonomic design, optimizing comfort and control behind the wheel.
- Futuristic Design: Collaborating with international designers, the Volvo Smart Bus boasted a sleek and aerodynamic appearance, setting new standards for public transportation aesthetics.
- Mirrorless Technology: With a 360-degree road monitoring system, the Volvo Smart Bus ensured unparalleled visibility and safety for both passengers and pedestrians.
- Aluminium Construction: The bus structure was designed with aluminium, ensuring durability, ease of repair, and eco-friendliness.
- Reliable AC System: Featuring the most reliable and highest-capacity AC system, the Volvo Smart Bus prioritized passenger comfort, irrespective of weather conditions.
"As automotive and transportation market leaders, Al-Futtaim Automotive and FAMCO remain fully committed to advancing and shaping the future of transportation within the UAE. Our strategic sponsorship and collaboration with MENA Transport Congress & Exhibition 2024 is a clear reflection of that commitment. We look forward to actively contributing to the pivotal discussions and initiatives under focus within this year’s theme of ‘Sustainable Mobility and Wellbeing’," said Yousuf AlRaeesi, Director of Government Relations & HSSE, Al-Futtaim Automotive.
He further added, “FAMCO has a long history of successful mobility partnerships with RTA and various government entities; a partnership solidified with our participation this year. At the event, we will showcase our new Volvo Bus, fully designed, and manufactured to meet the UAE’s commercial transportation needs and a continuing illustration of FAMCO’s mission to modernize transportation for a connected, safer, and a more sustainable future.”
By unveiling the Volvo Smart Bus at the UITP MENA Transport Congress and Exhibition 2024, FAMCO underscored its leadership in providing forward-thinking solutions that addressed the evolving needs of Dubai’s transportation ecosystem.