The Alexander ALX100 is a minibus body that was built by Walter Alexander Coachbuilders between 1997 and 1999. The second vehicle to be launched in the 'ALX' range, over 150 ALX100 bodies were built, exclusively on the Mercedes-Benz O814D Vario and O810D van chassis cowls.
Design
The ALX100 was launched in 1997 as a replacement for the AM-Type 'Sprint' body, fitted to the previous Mercedes 709D chassis. With the retention of the Mercedes front chassis cowl, including the grille, bonnet and headlights, the aluminium framed ALX100 was extremely visually similar to the competing Plaxton Beaver 2, which was also bodied on the Vario. The ALX100 mainly differed with a rear-end design developed from Alexander's ALX200 low-floor midibus, incorporating circular rear lights recessed into the bodywork to reduce the risk of breakage and a curved rear window that contrasted with square-cornered gasket side windows.
As a result of the new Vario suspension featuring a lower frame height and air suspension, the ALX100 had a low entrance step, which led to two further steps up to the passenger compartment. The ALX100 could also be specified with different door styles as well as to two different lengths depending on the wheelbase model, similar to the Beaver 2.
Operators
Cowie Group subsidiaries Midland Red North and Stevensons of Uttoxeter were the launch customers for the ALX100, taking delivery of eleven in June 1997 for use in on local services in Lichfield and Crewe.