President William Ruto and his African counterparts riding on a bus to Queen Elizabeth's burial elicited debate online with the images shared widely across the globe.
Riding the bus was a guideline set to ease traffic as over 2,000 VVIPs graced Her Majesty's burial. A few heads of states, including US President Joe Biden, were, however, allowed to travel in their motorcade for security purposes.
The heads of state who were ferried by buses enjoyed the services of Richmond's coaches.
Richmond's is a family-run business with over 30 fleets of cars and offers first-class services on its buses.
While the coaches range in the number of passengers they can ferry, all the buses have similar features that enable them to meet their executive status.
Key among the features is a privacy glass, reading lights, fridge, breathalyser immobiliser and a sophisticated air filtering system.
To enhance the safety of its users, the company has also installed a Traction Control System (TCS)
TCS helps keep traction between the tires and the road in dangerous weather conditions and an anti-lock braking system enhances the safety of the vehicle when the driver hits the brake pedal.
The system works in the background to help accelerate and prevent wheel slippage (or “over-spinning”) when driving on slippery surfaces.
Traction control, according to automobile experts, is most effective when accelerating from a stopped or slowed position, or when trying to accelerate up a slippery hill.
Additionally, Richmond's coaches offer hospitability services to its guests.
The executive services include bottled water, meet-and-greet hosts, Wi-Fi, and Fold tables among others.
"This approach means that we offer one of the most sophisticated, safe, and up-to-date service offerings across the full breadth of the UK coach industry.
"Our investments in modern vehicles, systems and technologies – further improving fuel efficiency, safety and passenger comfort – are reflected in our refreshed identity and livery," Richmond states on their website.
Notably, the company also has a double-decker coach which can carry over 75 to 83 people with more comfort features such as a toilet and hot drink point.
Most of the vehicles of the company founded in 1946 by Harold Victor Richmond are manufactured by Mercedes Benz.
