The Ikarus 55 bus was designed and manufactured in Hungary from 1955 to 1973. It was a high-floor coach that was used for long-distance and interurban travel, and it was the first rear-engine bus made by the company. The model was a remarkable achievement of engineering and design, and it represented the success and innovation of the Hungarian bus industry during the socialist era.
The Ikarus 55 had two hand-operated doors, one in the front and one in the rear, both opening outward. It had a panoramic windshield and a roof window. It had 32 to 44 seats, depending on the configuration. It had two heating systems, one for the passenger compartment and one for the driver’s area and the front door. It had a roof rack for luggage and a rear compartment for the engine.
The Ikarus 55 was a revolutionary bus that showed the creativity and skill of the Hungarian bus industry. It was one of the first buses in the world to have a rear-engine layout, which improved the passenger comfort and the driving performance. It was also one of the first buses to have a self-supporting body, which reduced the weight and the cost of the vehicle. It had a modern and elegant design, with a curved front and a streamlined shape. It had a spacious and comfortable interior, with large windows and adjustable seats. It had a reliable and powerful engine.
The Ikarus 55 was a popular and successful bus, both in Hungary and abroad. It was exported to many countries, especially in Eastern Europe and the Soviet Union. It was also sold to some Western European countries, such as Austria, Switzerland, and Sweden. It was praised for its quality, durability, and performance. It won several awards and distinctions, such as the Grand Prix at the Brussels International Exhibition in 1958, the Gold Medal at the Leipzig Fair in 1960, and the Diploma of Honour at the Paris Motor Show in 1961.
If you want to see an Ikarus 55 in person, you have a great opportunity to do so at the Lumina Park, a spectacular light exhibition that celebrates the 150th anniversary of Budapest.
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