MARCOPOLO LAUNCHES WORLD'S FIRST FOUR-AXLE RHD DOUBLE DECKER COACH

The model, developed for the South African market, is the first with right-hand drive and can carry 80 passengers, meeting the country's weight regulations

Marcopolo is launching the world's first double-decker coach model with four axles and right-hand drive (RHD) on the South African market. The vehicle, a Paradiso G8 1800 Double Decker, will be supplied to Intercape, the country's passenger transport operator, as part of an order for 21 units that will be deployed on international routes in Sub-Saharan Africa as well as interstate services.

The Paradiso G8 1800 Double Decker coach with four axles (8x2 configuration) and right-hand drive (RHD) is the first Marcopolo model in the world to feature this combination of characteristics. Built on a Volvo B510R Euro 6 chassis, the vehicle was developed in an 8x2 configuration to accommodate 80 passengers, featuring a new interior layout and an 800-liter fuel tank, meeting the technical and regulatory requirements of the South African market and the customer's operational needs.

"Once again, Marcopolo innovates and broadens its portfolio of solutions for transportation across the African continent. The Paradiso G8 1800 DD RHD is the first model with four axles on the market, which until then used three-axis vehicles, and the only one with capacity for 80 passengers and greater autonomy, with the 800 liter tank ”, highlights Renan Pesente, general manager of Marcopolo South Africa.

The development of the new Paradiso G8 1800 DD 8x2 involved specialized solutions created jointly by the engineering teams of Marcopolo Brazil and Marcopolo South Africa, including specific components for the 8x2 chassis configuration on a double-deck vehicle, as well as enhancements aimed at greater operational efficiency on long-distance routes, such as the 800-liter fuel tank.

Among its technological innovations, the new coach is also the first Double Decker in the South African market equipped with an electronic camera mirror system, replacing conventional mirrors and enhancing safety.

South Africa plays a key role in Marcopolo's international strategy and has been establishing itself as one of the company's leading markets on the continent. In 2025, the company produced 449 units in the country, representing 16.5% of its total international production.

This is consistent with the company's strategy of adapting its portfolio to the specific demands of different markets, particularly in regions with distinct operational requirements.

About Intercape

Founded in 1979 in Cape Town, Intercape began operations running the shuttle service between the airport and the city center. In 1986, the company obtained long-distance licenses for passenger services between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth. Since then, it has steadily expanded its fleet and operations, today running 230 vehicles across 150 routes throughout South Africa.

About Marcopolo

Founded 76 years ago in Caxias do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul, Marcopolo is one of the world’s leading bus body manufacturers and a benchmark in quality, technology, and innovation. Committed to advancing mobility, the company continuously invests in design, efficiency, new solutions, and international expansion, contributing to the development of passenger public transportation. With manufacturing facilities on five continents, its vehicles operate in more than 140 countries.

Image credit: Marcopolo Disclosure