In July 2024, a new line of buses was launched in South Africa, from the manufacturer MarcoPolo represents a reckless pursuit of excellence. The new G8 is a testament to MarcoPolo’s dedication to pushing the envelope towards delivering products to exceed expectations.
At the recent re-launch of Intercity Express Bus Company we were privileged to participate in the first local delivery, of the first right-hand drive G8 on a Scania Euro 5 Chassis, to Riaaz Paruk, Director of Intercity Express and Eagle Liner.
Also present were senior executives of the major bus suppliers such as Daimler SA, MAN and Scania together with major suppliers to the bus industry.
Intercity, a 25 year old company which has evolved over the years under many different guises covering short and long-haul routes from Baragwanath to various destinations in Kwa-Zulu Natal, also including some cross border routes.
In his opening address, Riaaz Paruk, commented on the success of the company and said, “We took over the business as Trans-Africa Holdings and in just over two years that we have been running Inter-City Express we have shown more than 50% growth since commencing operations under the new company”.
Further the added “My team of senior management under Wynand VanNieuwenhuizen, CEO, Intercity Express and Eagle Liner, having been tasked with this ‘New Kid’ on the block have taken the Company to the next-level and today, our passengers have experienced a notable improvement in our service levels, which is reflected in our numbers”.
Included in this memorable occasion was the handover of MarcoPolo Andare buses on MAN chassis to Eagle Liner, a subsidiary company to Intercity Express. This is a milestone achievement for an original order of 50 buses, with 36 having been delivered to date.
In his address at the handover, Jan Aichinger Managing Director of MAN Automotive (SA) referred to the 30 year partnership with Mohammed Paruk, founder of Trans Africa Holdings, and added, “In this time the relationship has grown and is based on buses and not really on trucks. Along the way you have collected many MAN vehicles in your fleet, including a number of very special vehicles such as a double-decker bus, the only one in the country “.
Further, Aichinger added “Intercity, has always stood for advancement in technologies, and investing in the latest technology, both in coaches and setting the standards in the industry, including commuter buses. The latest example of this is the partnership you have entered into with us in electric buses, which will be operating at Wits University. This represents a great example of foresight and leadership in the market by exploring something new which would help our citizens in terms of exhaust emissions”