1999 – A new generation of Plaxton coaches launches as the Panther. Built to the new maximum width of 2.55m, it is Plaxton's first to be constructed out of stainless steel to better resist corrosion. In updated form, it continues to form the basis for the company's range today.
Plaxton’s Panther range was first introduced in 1999 on the B10M chassis along with the Paragon model which had a more upright front and a pivot door rather than the Panther’s plug door arrangement, the rake of the screen precluding a pivot unit. Originally limited to 12m, a number of longer Panther versions were subsequently introduced, among them a 12.3m with an extended front overhang, 12.8m B12M and B12B, and the 15m.
2005 – Plaxton becomes the first manufacturer in Europe to build coaches with wheelchair access by way of the main passenger entrance when it launches the new Profile model. This ability is extended to the Panther the following year, using a cassette lift that neatly tucks away inside the entrance steps, and wheelchair accessibility has since been rolled out across the entire Plaxton coach range.
WheelsAge.org '2005–atual