ftr - the future of travel

Select an FAQ category from the menu on the left to find the answers to some commonly asked questions about ftr. If you can’t find what you’re looking for please contact us and we will be pleased to answer any queries. We will continue to add frequently asked questions to this list.

How easy is it to board or alight?

There are two customer entrances on ftr, one behind the front wheels, the other in the rear section. Boarding is only allowed at the front entrance but you can exit at either door. An automatic ramp for wheelchair users is available at the forward door, and the spacious layout around the entrance means that priority seating and the wheelchair space are immediately accessible.

How big is the ftr vehicle?

The articulated ftr vehicle is unlike any other vehicle in operation in Europe. It has been constructed to a new length of 18.7m. As such it is marginally longer than articulated buses. The vehicle is 3.5m high, higher than existing single-deck vehicles due to the roof mouldings that enclose the air-conditioning and other technical equipment.

How many people can it carry?

ftr has 53 seating positions with space for 60 standing. It has priority space for 1 standard wheelchair and 3 buggies or up to 4 buggies if the wheelchair space is not occupied.

How does the layout of ftr specifically cater for people with buggies?

ftr has been designed to allow easy access for customers boarding with buggies and incorporates an area near the front of the vehicle to allow customers to sit comfortably next to their buggy once they are onboard.

What's it like for the driver?

As well as creating a unique environment for passengers, ftr also provides new standards for its pilot (driver). The pilot is in a totally-enclosed full-width compartment, separated from the passenger compartment by a full-height partition with tinted glazing. The pilot’s air-conditioned workstation is as spacious as that on a tram, and to make his or her job as easy as possible has ergonomically-designed controls. The driving position is also similar to that of a rail vehicle, to give a good view of the road ahead. While the separate driving compartment allows the pilot to concentrate on driving safely, as a customer you can be assured that help is on hand if it is needed. A Customer Service Host will be available to assist you on each ftr. In addition, a public address system allows two-way communication between driver and customers. A CCTV system is provided throughout the vehicle.

What measures are there to keep me safe on ftr?

A CCTV system is provided throughout the vehicle. The driver can see CCTV images of all passenger areas on the vehicle.

Have you done anything different to stop the inside of the vehicle getting dirty?

A dedicated cleaning team makes sure that ftr is always at it’s best. The layout and materials used in the design of the vehicle have been selected with ease of cleaning and durability in mind.

What are the main differences between ftr and a normal vehicle?

ftr brings together all of the latest knowledge and technology to provide a forward thinking mode of travel. A state of the art-vehicle has been combined with other ingredients to make a truly groundbreaking service.

Priority measures make sure you arrive on time. Real time information is available online, on your mobile, on street and on board. Customer Service Hosts reduce queuing at stops and are on hand to provide assistance. The interior and exterior design of ftr means that you arrive in total comfort and style.

Who manufactures the ftr vehicle?

The vehicle used for ftr is Wright Group's 'StreetCar'. The Wright Group has pioneered low floor buses in the UK and has earned a reputation for producing vehicles that are stylish, durable, high in quality and packed with innovative features. The Wright Group is based in Northern Ireland.