VDL Futura FDD2
The VDL Futura family is now
complete with the launch of Double Decker VDL Futura FDD2. As the successor to
the successful VDL Synergy, the VDL Futura FDD2 is the next step. In 2010, VDL
Bus & Coach launched the luxurious New Futura FHD2, which in 2012 was
crowned with the prestigious title ‘Coach of the Year’. It formed the basis for
an entirely new line of coaches, with the FDD2 as the current – and with a
height of four metres, literal – high point.
Following in the tracks of the
FHD2 and FMD2, the new FDD2 is the third branch in the Futura family. The
Futura design language is clearly recognizable in the FDD2. Yet this
double-decker also has its own distinctive design features. The height of four
metres gave the designers the opportunity to create a bold and beautiful double
decker.
The design is accentuated by
the daytime running lights in the dynamically designed, arrow-shaped headlight
units and the contour lights above the windscreen. The interior is
characterized by round corners, good workmanship, modern, light colours and
lightweight materials. It radiates unity and harmony, making the traveller feel
at ease during the longer commutes for which double-deckers are mainly
deployed. The Futura FDD2 is available in two lengths: 13,085 mm (FDD2-130 for
up to 84 passengers) and 14,145 mm (FDD2-141 for up to 96 passengers), both
three-axle coaches.
The integral construction is similar to that of the FHD2,
naturally with the necessary modifications for strength and stiffness that are
required for a double-decker. The family is modular making it easy for
manufacturing with more common parts. For example, the basic front and rear
axle modules for the FDD2 are identical to those of the FHD2.
