How to Choose the Right Minibus

February 23, 2024
• 5 min read

In the market for a new minibus for your business? Whether you run a school, a charity, or a sports team, purchasing the right minibus for you is crucial for your transportation needs. With so many options out there, we understand that adding a new vehicle to your business’ fleet can feel overwhelming - but that’s where we come in.

When searching for a new minibus, there are several factors to take into consideration. From determining the right size for your group, to choosing between a new or used vehicle, we will help you to make an informed decision for your business’ needs. Additionally, we will also explore the pros and cons of combustion engine versus electric minibuses, as well as the importance of durability, accessibility and safety features.

What size minibus will I need?

If you're in the market for a new minibus for your business, it's important to consider the size that will best suit your needs. Whether you’re planning on mostly using your new minibus to transport students on school trips, need a new vehicle to take a sports team to games, or you’re looking for an accessible vehicle for wheelchair users, you know your unique requirements when it comes to transporting people and equipment safely and comfortably. 

First, it’s key to consider the number of seats you will need on your minibus. How many passengers do you typically transport? Make sure to choose a minibus with enough seats to accommodate everyone. 

It’s also important to remember any equipment or gear that you may need to transport. Whether it's sports equipment or supplies for a charity event, make sure there is ample space in the minibus for loading and unloading with both passengers and equipment on board.

Additionally, if you work with individuals who require wheelchair accessibility, you will need a wheelchair-accessible minibus. This will ensure that all members of your community can travel with ease and inclusivity. 

Where can I purchase a wheelchair-accessible minibus?

Are you looking for an accessible minibus for wheelchair users? If you work with individuals with disabilities or have passengers who use wheelchairs, opting for a wheelchair-accessible minibus is essential. These minibuses play a crucial role in ensuring that individuals with limited mobility have equal access to transportation options. By providing wheelchair-accessible vehicles, businesses are not only meeting their legal obligations under accessibility laws, but they are also demonstrating their commitment to inclusivity and diversity.

At Minibus.co.uk, we understand the significance of wheelchair-accessible minibuses and offer custom-made accessible minibuses designed to cater to the needs of wheelchair users. Our specialist minibuses are built with either an inboard lift, or underfloor lift, making it easy and convenient for wheelchair users to board and disembark from the vehicle. 

Alongside this, our wheelchair-accessible minibuses also include wheelchair restraints to ensure the safety and security of passengers during the journey. These restraints provide peace of mind to both the passengers and the driver, knowing that everyone is properly secured.

Need to travel at night? Fear not, we have also taken into careful consideration the need for night-time transportation by fitting all our minibuses with lights. This not only enhances visibility during nighttime journeys but also ensures that passengers with limited mobility feel comfortable and safe throughout their trip. We believe that accessibility should not be limited by time constraints, and our vehicles are equipped to provide a reliable mode of transportation at any time of the day.

If you’d like to find out more about our wheelchair-accessible minibus, please visit our dedicated page, or contact us to speak to our friendly team.

Which is best - new vs. used minibus?

Once you’ve chosen the size and accessibility features you’ll need in your minibus, it’s time to start browsing the different appropriate options available on the market. But, when it comes to new or used minibuses, which is best?

Whilst both new and used minibuses have their advantages and disadvantages, opting for a new minibus can have numerous benefits, with one of the main advantages of purchasing new being the peace of mind that comes with it. 

With a new vehicle, you can be confident in its reliability and performance. New minibuses also come with warranties, ensuring that any unexpected repairs or issues will be covered. New minibuses are also equipped with the latest safety features, providing a higher level of protection for both the driver and passengers. 

If you’re concerned about fuel efficiency, you’ll also likely find that new minibuses often have better fuel efficiency, which can result in long-term savings on fuel costs. Alternatively, if you’re looking for a more eco-friendly way to travel, you may find that an electric minibus is more suited to your needs.

On the other hand, used minibuses may be more affordable upfront, but they come with their own set of risks. There is a higher chance of encountering mechanical problems or needing costly repairs as the vehicle has already been used.

Preloved minibuses may also lack the advanced safety features found in new, custom-built models such as ours. While buying a used minibus can be a viable option for those on a tighter budget, it is important to weigh the potential risks and expenses that may arise. Overall, new minibuses offer numerous advantages in terms of reliability, safety, and long-term savings.

Comparing the pros and cons: combustion engine vs. electric 

Another important factor to take into consideration is the decision between a combustion engine minibus or an electric minibus. While both options have their advantages, electric minibuses are undeniably the more eco-friendly choice. 

Electric minibuses produce zero emissions, which means they do not contribute to air pollution and do not release harmful greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. This is a significant benefit for companies that prioritise sustainability and want to reduce their carbon footprint. 

Alongside the environmental benefits, electric minibuses are also much quieter than their combustion engine counterparts, creating a more peaceful and enjoyable experience for passengers.

However, one thing to keep in mind when considering an electric minibus is its limited mileage. Electric minibuses typically have a shorter range compared to combustion engine minibuses. But, if you’re looking to primarily use your new minibus for shorter trips, opting for electric is to your advantage. 

Electric minibuses are ideal for urban areas or routes with frequent stops, where they can easily be recharged at charging stations along the way. So, if you’re looking for a minibus suitable for journeys with frequent stops, such as school pick-ups and drop offs, you may want to consider an electric minibus.

What safety features should my minibus have?

Whatever type of journeys you’re looking to use your new minibus for, it’s crucial to invest in a minibus that can withstand the demands of daily use and provide a safe transportation experience for your passengers. 

At Minibus.co.uk, we understand the importance of ensuring the safety of both drivers and passengers. That's why all of our standard minibuses come equipped with a range of essential safety features.

Our standard minibuses are fitted with an actuated side step, making it easier for passengers to board and depart from the vehicle safely. We also include sliding ventilation to ensure a comfortable and well-ventilated environment for everyone on board. The seating in our minibuses is M2 tested, providing reassurance that they meet the necessary safety standards. And in the event of an emergency, an emergency escape hatch is included for quick and easy evacuation.

When purchasing your new vehicle, we’d strongly recommend choosing a minibus that has all of these safety features to keep both your passengers and drivers safe throughout each journey. 

How can I find a reliable minibus supplier? 

If you’re looking to purchase a minibus from a company committed to safety, look no further than Minibus.co.uk. Our minibuses are designed to meet and surpass all legal regulations, providing peace of mind for both drivers and passengers

We understand that when it comes to transportation, there should be no compromises on safety. That's why we go above and beyond to ensure that our minibuses not only comply with regulations but also exceed them.

So, whether you’re looking for a standard, electric or wheelchair-accessible minibus for your business, we’ve got you covered. We offer a wide range of minibuses, carefully crafted to exceed both safety standards and regulatory requirements. If you’d like to find out more about how we can help, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our friendly team today.

You might also like...

View all blogs