JOHANNESBURG - Putco has launched six new accessibility buses aimed at making public transport more inclusive for people with disabilities.
The Mercedes-Benz Low Entry buses feature purpose-built technology and design to improve accessibility for passengers.
The buses come with a fitted ramp and inside there is dedicated space for wheelchairs as well as priority seating for passengers who may need it.
Putco spokesperson Lindokuhle Xulu said the goal was to rethink how accessibility is considered when designing public transport, something he claims has traditionally been placed at the back end.
"At the forefront, we wanted to think about accessibility as being the core when it comes to designing buses, and that's really what we've done," he said
Xulu said Putco said this was a collaborative effort from Putco alongside organisations for people with disabilities, including the South African Disability Alliance and the National Council for Persons with Disabilities, to help guide the design.
Xulu said their input was important in ensuring the buses respond to the real needs of passengers living with different disabilities.
The launch brings together Putco, Daimler Truck Southern Africa and organisations to discuss the future of inclusive mobility.