First VDL Futura 3 coaches delivered to customers
VDL Bus Group has delivered the first VDL Futura 3 coaches to customers. The vehicles were handed over on Friday 23 January to Kupers Touringcars and De Baar Touringcars and will now be seen on public roads. This officially marks the transition of the latest generation of the VDL Futura from introduction to daily operation.
The VDL Futura 3, the result of years of continuous development, was presented in October 2025 at Busworld in Brussels. With this third‑generation VDL Futura, VDL Bus Group sets a new benchmark in long‑distance transport, with a strong focus on efficiency, comfort, safety and lower operational costs throughout the vehicle’s entire service life.
The first deliveries mark an important milestone for both VDL Bus Group and its customers. Four VDL Futura 3 12.9‑metre single‑deck vehicles have been handed over to Kupers Touringcars and De Baar Touringcars; one of these vehicles operated by De Baar Touringcars will be officially presented at a later date as part of the company’s 100th anniversary celebrations.
Logical next step
Marc van Doorn, Managing Director Coach at VDL Bus Group: “With the first vehicles now delivered to customers, the VDL Futura 3 is entering the next phase of practical operation. Coach operators can now deploy the vehicle in their daily operations, while passengers will start experiencing the latest generation of the Futura on the road.”
Bert Fonteijn, Managing Director of Kupers Touringcars: “For Kupers Touringcars, quality and reliability have been at the heart of our business for generations. Being among the first customers to take delivery of the new VDL Futura 3 – and even the very first to put it into operation – makes us proud. The vehicle fits perfectly with our ambitions in terms of comfort, safety, efficiency and sustainability. We look forward to welcoming our customers on board this new generation of the Futura on a daily basis.”
Efficient and future‑proof
One of the key features of the VDL Futura 3 is its significantly improved fuel efficiency. Thanks to a combination of optimised aerodynamics, weight reduction and advanced vehicle technology, fuel savings of up to 15 per cent have been achieved. This results in lower operational costs and a more sustainable fleet. In addition, the vehicle has been prepared for future updates, including potential alternative drivelines.
The Futura 3 also offers advantages in terms of maintenance and operating costs. Through smart engineering, a modular design and improved system accessibility, repair and maintenance costs are kept to a minimum, further reducing the total cost of ownership (TCO).
Comfort and safety
During the development of the VDL Futura 3, extensive use was made of feedback from customers, drivers, passengers and the aftersales network. This is reflected, among other things, in an ergonomically designed driver’s cabin with improved seating comfort and intuitive controls. For passengers, a new interior, ambient lighting and high‑quality materials ensure a comfortable travel experience.
In terms of safety, the Futura 3 is equipped with the latest generation of ADAS driver assistance systems, improved lines of sight and has been prepared to meet the most stringent safety standards. The completely redesigned climate system contributes to quiet and efficient temperature control throughout the vehicle.
Photo from left to right: Paul de Baar (De Baar Touringcars), An-Sophie Meeuwissen (VDL Bus Group), Marc van Doorn (VDL Bus Group), Julius Fonteijn, Bert Fonteijn (Kupers Touringcars)