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13 August 2012
By Stagecoach

Six new buses fitted with free Wi-Fi internet access are set to be launched by Stagecoach as part of a £1.1m investment.

The fleet of branded high-tech double deckers are being introduced by leading bus operator Stagecoach on route 43, which connects Sheffield and Chesterfield via Dronfield.

The route runs every 30 minutes during the day, supplemented by additional trips at busy times on route 43A between Dronfield and Sheffield.

The 80 seat low-floor, easy access vehicles feature the special Peel Monument livery, celebrating the services’ connection with Dronfield. Each vehicle is also fitted with a Euro 5 engine which will produce lower levels of emissions that the Euro 4 engines currently used on the route.

They are being introduced to cater for significant passenger growth and will replace the fleet of single decker buses previously used on the route.

The launch will be celebrated with a special giveaway event in Chesterfield town centre on Thursday, August 23.

Rupert Cox, commercial director, Stagecoach Yorkshire, said: “The number 43 continues to be one of our most popular routes with passenger journeys having doubled since we last improved the frequency and introduced new buses onto this route in 2008. This latest investment in these state-of-the-art double deckers is about meeting this ever growing demand.

“The Chesterfield-Sheffield corridor via Dronfield is very well used by workers and shoppers and the introduction of free Wi-Fi is part our commitment to catering for the requirements of passengers, for both business and leisure.”

Stagecoach has partnered with award-winning Moovbox technology to deliver the passenger internet access.

Rupert added: “In 2008, we launched a fleet of single decker buses costing £500,000 for the 43 and it was a huge success, with passenger numbers rocketing by 55 per cent during the first 12 months. The service has gone from strength to strength over the last few years, becoming ever more popular, which is why we have invested once again.

“We take great pride in aiming to exceed our customers’ expectations with frequent, reliable, value-for-money services that offer the highest standards of comfort and accessibility. By providing more seats on every journey customers will not need to worry about having to stand.

It is the third Stagecoach route in the region to introduce free Wi-Fi – Stagecoach’s X17 and 120 services also provide passengers with internet access.