Stanford Coachworks Newsletter:

Mike answers your questions!

Q: What would you consider to be your most popular conversion features?

A: During my (almost!) 14 years at Stanfords, we have converted such a wide range of vehicles and some of the most popular features that our clients have requested include handy removable seating, rear saloon passenger climate control and our fold-out side step, specially designed for assisted access. We have also had a number of specialist requests from custom-built storage compartments to headrests embroidered with logos and even a designated seating area for a client’s dog! For practicality, our wipe clean / moquette mix seating is incredibly popular as it’s easy to clean yet still offers the option for a colourful soft patterned design.

Q: I’m looking for a larger minibus which can carry up to 17 passengers, do I need a specialist driving licence?

A: Yes, when a vehicle exceeds 8 passenger seats plus the driver or exceeds 3.5 tonnes, it is no longer classed as a car (M1 vehicle). For these minibuses you will require a specialist D1 driving licence. It’s good for you to check your licence as you may already hold a D1 entitlement. If you passed your driving test before January 1st 1997 you could automatically hold this. For more information, click here to read our helpful guide on who can drive a minibus.

Q: How do your Super Flat Floor conversions differ from other conversions on the minibus market?

A: Our Super Flat Floor conversions are designed to maximise passenger space in the rear saloon. This additional space is achieved by eliminating all wheel arch intrusions and installing an underfloor tail lift between the original vehicle floor and the SCW Super Flat Floor. The protected tail lift position ensures that no corrosion or damage occurs. Plus, they are exclusive to Stanfords Coachworks, so you won’t find one anywhere else! We also offer a Flat Floor conversion which again works by eliminating wheel arch intrusions however the tail lift can either be installed inside the rear saloon or underneath the exterior of the vehicle. Read more about our specialist conversions here.

Paul answers your questions!

Q: Do you offer conversions on electric vehicles?

A: Yes we do! Unfortunately, we cannot offer conversions on smaller single wheelchair accessible vehicles, such as the Citroen e-Berlingo, due to the placement of the batteries, however we can offer our current e-SCW conversions on anything mid-range and upwards. Our current range includes the Maxus e-deliver 9, Volkswagen ABTe, Fiat e-Ducato, Ford e-Transit and Renault Master ZE. Many manufacturers are working hard to bring us more options and we have a team dedicated to sourcing new low-energy features, currently in development from our suppliers.

Q: How do your e-SCW conversions differ from your original Stanfords conversions?

The only major difference is that we can’t currently offer independent heating or cooling solutions on our e-SCW conversions. This is due to the drain that the systems have on the batteries, subsequently lowering the vehicles range. We can however, divert the vehicle’s original climate control into the rear saloon. Our suppliers are also currently developing suitable climate systems designed specifically for electric vehicles. Much alike our traditional conversions, we still offer our bespoke touches. Whether it be premium stitched seating, executive flooring or luxury interior lining, we can help!

Q: Is an e-SCW conversion right for me?

There’s many things to consider if you’re looking to go green with your fleet. I would definitely recommend trialling an electric vehicle to see what works best for you. Factors such as external temperature, vehicle size and load weight can contribute towards a variation in mileage range, so it is worth considering these points. Also consider whether you have the correct infrastructure, specifically how accessible charging points are within your area, when making your decision. Although priced slightly higher, overall electric vehicles come with lower running and maintenance costs. Many manufacturers are offering fantastic warranties, servicing and breakdown packages too.

Nigel answers your questions!

Q: My minibus must reflect my organisation, how can you help?

A: We love to create minibuses that are bespoke to our clients, so we have a number of different features, materials and designs for you to choose from. During the earlier stages, we like to meet with our clients so that we can truly understand what their requirements are. Recently, we personalised a client’s whole fleet by incorporating a luxury diamond stitch interior design finished in a blue and orange colour scheme to compliment their organisation. We even included a custom embroidered panel with their logo which featured on each of the vehicle's modesty screens.

Q: I'd like some specialist features included in my conversion, could you do this?

A: We have over 25 years worth of experience and during this time, we have converted some exciting vehicles such as mobile youth clubs, doctors clinics, mobile barbers, production & tour buses and much more! We invite our customers to join us at our factory and take a look at some of our vehicles in build. This is a great way to gain an idea of what you would like included in your conversion. Plus, the visit also gives you the chance to meet the coachbuilding team who will be responsible for converting your minibus from start to finish. The only limit is your imagination (and of course your budget) so whether it be TV screens, dressing rooms or somewhere to store your PPE, we can deliver your vision.

Q: Why should I choose Stanford Coachworks, what makes you different from your competitors?

A: The quality of our conversions are second to none. Each minibus is converted by a team of two highly skilled coachbuilders who take great pride in their work. As for our conversions, we only use components that are tested and quality checked by our team. All of our vehicles meet strict safety regulations and each undergo either an IVA test or are built to meet high standard NSSTA requirements. Safety is our number one priority.  

We are delighted to announce that we will be attending a number of exciting shows in 2022. We can’t wait to get back to exhibiting our latest innovative conversions, catching up with clients & suppliers and meeting new faces!

May Madness!

Over the next month, we’re set for a very busy time ahead preparing specialist minibuses for not one, but two exhibitions in May! The Stanfords team are working incredibly hard to bring you some fantastic new conversions that really will wow the crowd!

After the pandemic leading to the cancellation of many 2020 and 2021 shows, we’re so excited to finally be back at it. More information regarding our upcoming events will be released on our social media, so be sure to stay up to date with all of our latest news by following us.

From 11th - 12th May, we will be heading to the Farnborough International Centre for the ITT Hub conference. At this event, we’re excited to announce that we will be launching a brand-new vehicle as part of our e-SCW range. Make sure you’re there to take a look!

Later that month, we will be heading back to our usual spot on the Webasto stand at the highly-popular CV show. Come and join us from 24th - 26th May at the NEC in Birmingham where we will be launching a second adventurous conversion.