Optare / Switch Models Explained

An overview of common Optare and Switch single‑deck models in the UK, with emphasis on visual cues useful for BusOva entries.

From Optare to Switch

Optare has produced distinctive low‑floor single‑deckers for many years. More recently the brand has transitioned to Switch Mobility, especially for electric models.

• Optare Solo - compact low‑floor bus widely used on local and rural routes.
• Optare Versa - longer, more “full‑size” appearance but still clearly an Optare design.
• MetroCity / MetroDecker - urban single and double‑deck products, including electric variants.
• Switch - branding used on newer zero‑emission products and updated designs.

Spotting Solos, Versas and MetroCity/MetroDecker

These models have very recognisable front ends and window layouts once you have seen a few examples.

• Solo - short wheelbase, curved front profile and deep front window, often with a “podgy” stance.
• Versa - longer wheelbase with more conventional proportions but still a distinctive Optare front.
• MetroCity - full‑size single deck with squared‑off styling compared with Solo/Versa.
• MetroDecker - double decker with squared front and rear, normally on Optare/Switch integral chassis.

Electric variants

Optare and Switch have been early movers in electric buses. Electric versions often share body shells with diesel or hybrid variants but have extra equipment.

• Look for roof‑mounted battery packs and charging points compared with diesel equivalents.
• Branding such as “Electric”, “EV” or Switch logos is common on the sides or front.
• On BusOva, make sure to set the fuel/power type correctly where known and mention the variant in notes.

Recording Optare / Switch models on BusOva

You do not need to chase every sub‑variant; getting the main family right is already useful.

• If you can tell it is a Solo but not the exact length or generation, record it as Solo and leave the variant blank.
• For MetroDecker and MetroCity, be clear whether you are recording the integral model or a body on another chassis, if that combination exists.
• Use notes to flag when you believe a vehicle has been converted or heavily refurbished compared with its original spec.

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