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Camping on the campaign trail

This modded Volvo B7R is just the kind of place to host a `political' party...

Wealth and power have long been clubbed together - one breeds the other and vice-versa. But what we have here is an astonishing example of excess - a 12m 110kph behemoth which costs somewhere in the region of two luxury saloons, and we're talking Mercedes S-Class or Audi A8 here. A one-off vehicle designed and constructed by Dilip Chhabria (DC), this Volvo B7R-based coach is very nearly a palace on wheels.

DC has done his thing with the exterior, with a more dynamic look in place. The headlamps are all-new and the front has hints of Volvo's European tractor-trailer about it. There's not much you can do with the side of a bus though, and all it gets is a coat of good paint. Step inside however, and it's something else. An interplay of wood and leather, set off by demure LED lighting is more lounge than utility transport. What's more, it boasts of a state-of-the-art entertainment suite, replete with twin 32-inch LCD screens, a single 40-incher, two 15-inch screens and just in case somebody got left out, three 5-inch LCD screens. There's surround sound audio of course, and satellite TV, just in case you run out of DVDs.

The inside is divided into two main `chambers', the first with a sofa-bed for two and the other with six lounge chairs with fold out tables. The master lounge has a touch-screen multi-function remote, which operates the entertainment system, the automatically extending bed and the lighting.

So what's the point? Well, this is a politician's campaign vehicle and the icing on the cake is the pulpit that rises from the bus, hoisting the politician over the crowd. A public address system and spotlights that will illuminate him can be deployed at the touch of a button.

Communications are important in an election campaign and a laptop with internet is also specified. Security for a high-level politician is very important, so cameras around the bus allow a view of the surroundings without having to step off the bus. Tinted windows and draw-up blinds also lend privacy.

This bus is designed for the long haul and keeping that in mind, a fully functional kitchenette with a microwave oven, fridge and coffee machine ease the hassles of long-distance travel. A chemical toilet and shower cubicle figure too. Election or not, this bus is definitely a winner.

HARMAAN MADON

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