Minibus supplier PHVC has taken delivery of the UK's first right-hand drive, factory-built Iveco Daily Line Hi-Matic minibus.

The 22-seater has been purchased as a demonstrator to showcase to fleets, but the company has already placed an order for a further 20 vehicles.

The Hampshire-based firm, which supplies vehicles to sectors education, community transport and local authorities, is confident of strong demand for Iveco Bus's latest minibus after customers have driven it.

PHVC has spotted a growing market for 22-23-seater vehicles and chose Iveco Bus for the first time because of its class-exclusive eight-speed Hi-Matic transmission which it says is good for performance and comfort.

PHVC managing director Paul Huxford said, after trialling an IVECO Daily Hi-Matic, his firm will now only buy automatic vehicles and that the manufacturer's success in being named International Minibus of the Year 2017 with its Daily Tourys put them ahead of all their competitors.

Mr Huxford said: 'Iveco Bus lent us a 3.5 tonne Daily panel van with Hi-Matic transmission to test out ' and it was sublime. We can see why the Daily is becoming so popular.

'Another reason we chose Iveco Bus is this vehicle's 6.5 tonne gross vehicle weight which makes it very sturdy. With this and the impressive Hi-Matic transmission, it shows Iveco Bus is a major player in the minibus sector. We are really enthusiastic about this new partnership and are confident we will enjoy a long and fruitful relationship'

The Daily 65C18HA8 was delivered directly from IVECO's factory in Italy and is powered by the manufacturer's 3.0 litre Euro VI diesel engine delivering up to 180hp. Built on a 4,100mm wheelbase, the vehicle also offers a rear access lift for passengers with disabilities.

The Daily Line is also available with a Natural Power engine running on compressed natural gas (CNG).

Mr Huxford added: 'A lot of the sectors we supply vehicles to are already looking at alternative fuels.

'We expect around 50 per cent of our orders will be for CNG vehicles in five years. So, for us it's vital to have a good working relationship with the manufacturer which is leading the way in this market'