The rise of the 9-seater minibus

It used to be the 9-seater minibus (technically classed as a car) was not an obvious choice for schools or organisations when considering a minibus.

That’s no longer the case, there are several reasons this type of vehicle’s popularity has risen recently including price, comfort, and the fact anyone can drive them.

We’re going to take you through these reasons with a particular focus on the Toyota Proace Verso EV 9-seater, that Rivervale currently has in stock for only £379 per month + VAT*.

Exclusive Pricing

The price of a 9-seater, especially this Toyota Motor Corporation , which Rivervale has an exclusive offer on, is considerably less than a standard minibus (12-17 seats) because of its size. Compare £379 + VAT per month* with the cost of the 12-seat Ford Transit Minibus or a Peugeot Boxer 15-seater, currently priced around £660 - £770 per month + VAT.

Leasing with Rivervale means your vehicle is fully maintained, so you don’t need to worry about MOTs and services, road tax, or breakdown recovery; these are included in your monthly costs. All you need to do is add fuel and insurance.

If you're reading this guide after the offer has ended on the Toyota Proace, Rivervale will have other 9-seater vehicles available – please do just get in touch.

Saving money with an electric vehicle

If you haven't yet considered an electric vehicle, it might be the time to do so. Not only are they better for the environment, but they're cheaper to run, especially if you use off-peak electricity to charge overnight.

For schools and organisations operating within the M25 or in a ULEZ or clean air zone, there is currently no charge for electric vehicles.

We appreciate 'range-anxiety' is a real concern, but the Toyota Proace Verso EV L1 50kWH will give you 120-140 miles per charge which will enable you to drive from London to the White Cliffs of Dover, Southampton or the far Northwest of Oxfordshire. Charging will also take as little as 30 minutes with a 100kW rapid charger, or 7 hours if you’re using a 7kW charger overnight.

Anyone can drive them and no Section 19 Permit required

9-seater vehicles can be driven by anyone with a valid car licence.

Vehicles with 8 passenger seats or less are considered cars and therefore do not require a Section 19 Permit. Therefore they can be driven by anyone with a valid car licence with none of the restrictions of the permit, such as being over 21, having held a licence for two years, and being paid to drive.

Compact and Comfortable

9-seater vehicles offer the comfort of a car with the advantage of carrying so many more passengers. Most have configurable seats to give you greater flexibility.

The exterior of the Proace Verso EV gives the functional feel of a minibus and its boxy shape maximises interior space. It is literally like having a mini-minibus. Inside, the seats are configurable and can be adjusted or removed to suit different needs. This flexibility makes it ideal for both carrying passengers and luggage. It’s perfect for smaller sports teams and equipment, or transporting passengers and their luggage.

Although supremely comfortable, the materials used in the interior are durable and built to withstand wear and tear from less-than-careful students, service users or clients.

For the driver, their position is elevated providing good visibility, and the dashboard is user-friendly with intuitive control with an infotainment system to keep all onboard entertained.

Large enough to be an advert for your organisation

We have talked about the advantages of having a smaller vehicle; the price, the ease of driving and the lack of restrictions, but let’s not forget a 9-seater is larger than the normal car! It is certainly big enough to make an impression out on the road, becoming an effective and enviable advertisement for your organisation.

School runs, regular pick-ups, smaller sports teams, nursery schools and care homes would also benefit from demonstrating they have these modern and more comfortable vehicles for their students, clients or service users.

Rivervale will add your livery and logos before delivery so your vehicle arrives looking amazing and ready to promote your brand from day one. Again all this is included in the costs.

So, if we have whet your appetite for a 9-seater, or more specifically the Toyota Proace Verso EV, then please do give us a call to reserve your vehicle or find out what else we have on offer. Simply call: 01869 253 744 or email: minibus@rivervale.co.uk

*£379 + VAT per month based on a 5-year funder-maintained contract, an initial rental charge of 3 months £1137 + VAT, with 59 subsequent monthly payments and 5k annual mileage. Business users only, subject to status, guarantees and indemnities maybe required. Excess Mileage charges apply. Unfair Wear and Tear and Damage Charges may apply. For full terms and conditions, visit www.rivervale.co.uk. Rivervale is a broker and not a lender. Rivervale Minibus Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (registration number 3723474).