Optare MetroCity


The Optare MetroCity is an integral midibus manufactured by Optare since 2013. Originally aimed at the London market, the MetroCity is based on the existing Optare Versa, which continues to be produced separately. In the UK market, longer variants of the MetroCity have replaced the Optare Tempo SR. As at August 2018, over 250 had been built.

Diesel version

The first prototype was delivered to London United. The MetroCity is available in five lengths, with the V990MC, V1010MC, V1060MC, V1080MC and V1152MC models measuring 9.9m, 10.1m, 10.6m, 10.8m and 11.52m long respectively. The shorter models were designed to replace the Optare Solo SR in London, while the longer models were to replace the Optare Versa and Optare Tempo SR in the London market. Although the Solo SR and Versa remain in production, the Tempo SR has now been entirely discontinued in the UK market with the introduction of the MetroCity due to poor sales.

Electric version

An electric version is available, named "MetroCity EV", using a 150kW Magtec motor. In July 2014, four entered service with London United on route H98. In September 2015, nine entered service with Arriva London on route 312.

Operators

United Kingdom

were the launch customer for the MetroCity, taking delivery of four examples in April 2014. These were followed in May 2014 by twelve for Quality Line, currently the largest operator of the type in London. Two electric MetroCity’s were delivered to Arriva London in November 2014, followed by a further seven in August 2015.
Other large purchasers have been New Adventure Travel and West Coast Motors.

New Zealand

In September 2017, Tranzit Group ordered 114 for use in Wellington.