Volvo 9700 coach range to be produced in Mexico (on delivery in Europe from 2026)

Volvo has decided to move production of the 9700 coach range in its own plant in Mexico. The news is reported on Hungarian trade media Magyarbusz[info], that quotes Volvo Buses spokeperson Joakim Kenndal.

The first Mexican-built Volvo 9700s are scheduled for delivery in 2026 for the continental European and UK markets. The future of the Volvo 9900 premium range is unclear as it was not mentioned by Volvo communication office.

Volvo moves production of 9700 coach in Mexico

This developments follows the stop of complete bus production announced by the Swedish group in early 2023 (in force by early 2024), the deal with Sunsundegui and the subsequent halt of this cooperation followed by pre-bankruptcy proceedings of the Spanish bodybuilder (transfer of technology appeared to be so complex and costly that it was not feasible to produce the new generation of Volvo coaches in Spain, Volvo stated at that time).

Then, as reported on Magyarbusz, having failed to find a suitable partner to continue production in Europe, Volvo Buses has changed strategy and decided to move series production of the 9700, which is on offer in the European market, to its plant in Tultitlán, Mexico. According to Joakim Kenndal, their Mexican factory, which has been producing customised models for the Latin American market for more than 25 years, is the only one with the expertise and technology to mass produce the 9700. This is confirmed by the experience gained in the production of its sister and predecessor model, the 9800, which is similar not only in styling but also in construction.