Ireland’s First Volvo 9700 Double-Deck Coaches Join the Matthews Fleet

We’re excited to share some big news from Matthews Coach Hire – we’ve just taken delivery of three brand-new Volvo B13R 9700 double-deck coaches, the first of their kind to enter service in Ireland. These new additions are part of an order for five identical high-capacity coaches, marking a major milestone for both our company and Irish coach travel.

More Capacity, More Comfort

These impressive 14.8m double-deck coaches offer a 34% increase in seating capacity compared to the vehicles they replace – with space for up to 95 passengers. That means more seats for our busy commuter routes connecting Dundalk, Drogheda, Dublin, and University College Dublin, without adding extra vehicles or drivers.

Inside, passengers will enjoy:

• Ergonomic moquette-upholstered seating with fold-down tables

• Smart wood-effect flooring

• USB-A/C charging at every seat

It’s all about providing a first-class travel experience, whether you’re commuting, heading to college, or travelling for an event.

Supporting Student Commuters

Every day, Matthews carries a large number of students travelling to Dublin’s major colleges and universities, including UCD, DCU, and Trinity, as well as Dundalk Institute of Technology. These new double-deckers will make a real difference to student commuters, with more capacity to meet growing demand and thoughtful features that make studying – or simply relaxing – on the move much easier.

Designed for Reliability & Safety

Reliability has always been a top priority for us, and these new coaches deliver just that. They feature Volvo’s advanced Euro 6 D13K engine, offering up to 500hp, paired with the smooth and efficient I-Shift transmission for fuel savings and powerful performance.

Drivers are already praising their smooth handling and enhanced visibility, thanks to state-of-the-art mirrorless camera systems that improve safety on busy urban routes and help detect vulnerable road users like cyclists and e-scooters.

A Premium Choice for Private Hire & Events

Beyond daily services, the new Volvo 9700s are perfectly suited for private hire, bespoke tours, and event transport. With their premium interiors and increased capacity, they’re ideal for everything from student groups to large concert crowds.

A Longstanding Partnership with Volvo

Over 90% of our 45-vehicle fleet is built on a Volvo chassis, and these new models are another step in our trusted relationship with Volvo. Our Director, Majella Lambe, sums it up best:

“These new 9700s not only look stunning, they offer increased capacity and comfort, and provide a first-class travelling experience for passengers. Our drivers can also be assured that their working environment reflects Volvo’s commitment to quality, safety, and advanced technology.”

Looking Ahead

Matthews Coach Hire has come a long way since being founded in 1995 by Paddy and Mary Matthews. Today, from our base in Inniskeen, Co. Monaghan, we carry more than 4,500 passengers every day across 145 services, connecting communities and supporting major events across Ireland.

We’re proud to be the first operator in Ireland to introduce the Volvo 9700 double-decker coaches – and we can’t wait for you to experience the journey.