ONE of Ireland’s best-known independent transport companies, John McGinley Coach Travel in Magheroarty, Co. Donegal, have just taken delivery of 10 stunning new state-of-the-art coaches from Volvo on Saturday (April 13th).
The cleaner, greener, new fleet additions, worth over €4 million, made their successful maiden voyage from Volvo in Dublin to McGinley Travel headquarters based along the Wild Atlantic Way in Donegal arriving in the afternoon.
Many well-wishers turned out at various locations along the route to greet the colourful convoy.
Speaking on the arrival of the new coaches, Managing Director James McGinley said he was delighted to take delivery of them from Volvo and is looking forward to seeing them go into service soon.
He said their investment is a commitment to offering top quality travel for all their passengers, while still being environmentally responsible as they look to the future.
James stated: “The think is to say a massive THANK YOU to everyone for their support. The arrival of our new coaches last Saturday 13th April, 2024, marked a milestone that our family will cherish for a long time!
“Starting off from the Volvo Irish Commercials depot in Naas, our journey back to Donegal was nothing short of unforgettable! As we hit the road with our ‘10 New coaches’, little did we know the incredible outpouring of support and good wishes that awaited us along the way.
“From Dublin to Donegal, people lined the route to cheer us on as we passed by! The smiles, waves and good wishes made every part of the journey very special. From cards, to Facebook posts, videos and TikTok’s your support and encouragement is truly appreciated.
“To the people of Donegal especially, we say a massive thank you to each and every one of you for making this day so special. Your continued support is very important to us and makes us even more determined to continue serving you with dedication and the highest standards in passenger safety and comfort.
“Here’s to many more unforgettable journeys together. This video shows our journey home, enjoy!” James added.
This was one of the largest individual custom orders Volvo undertook in 2023, and is a major commitment by the family-run firm to improving the standards of independent local and national transport services.
The new additions will see McGinley’s expand their daily services to and from Dublin, as well as other services and private hire options.
Offering the latest in style, safety and comfort, these new vehicles are among the most modern on Irish roads and are a greener way to travel with significantly less emissions thanks to the modern technology used. “
Built on Volvo’s new B13R chassis to add fuel savings of up to 9 per cent, the order comprises seven 13.1m 4×2 and three 14m 6×2 models, with 55 and 61 passenger seats respectively. The 9700s are powered by the fuel-efficient Euro-6 D13K engine, producing up to 500 hp and a peak torque of 1,585 Nm, reducing running costs and CO2 emissions. The 12-speed I-Shift automated transmission combines smooth and precise gearshifts with high average speeds and outstanding driveability.
The family run enterprise was founded in 1968. It now provides travel for corporate, holiday and tour groups of all sizes, as well as daily coach services between Co. Donegal and Dublin City and Airport.