The Volvo B12BLE is a low-entry city and suburban bus chassis launched in 2001 with an engine mounted on the rear overhang. It replaced the Volvo B10BLE and is used as a base for single deck buses in Europe and Australia.
It is a similar to the B7RLE in design, with the overall chassis being the same, however the B12BLE features the 12-litre Volvo DH12 engine and is equipped with 4-wheel disc brakes because of the extra weight. The engine is mounted horizontally, as opposed to vertically, for example, with the Volvo D7 engine in the B7L. The radiator is mounted low on the right hand side.
The B12BLE is also available in articulated form since 2005, which is known as the B12BLEA. The creation was from the tractor and turntable modules of B7LA, and the rear modules of the rigid B12BLE. The B12BLEA can now be purchased by any operator as part of Volvo's product range and is now available with a more refined Euro IV engine.
From 2004, the B12BLE is available with the MkII electrical system and a 6-speed ZF 6HP592C automatic transmission, the B12BLEA also having the MkII electrical system and a 6-speed ZF 6HP602C automatic transmission.
The B12BLE is also available as a complete integral bus package in Europe - the Volvo 8500LE and 8700LE.