Nine buses operating in the Kilmarnock area have been decorated with floating green leaves by Lanarkshire-based vehicle graphic experts, OPG, using 3M™ Envision™ Print Wrap Film 48C.

As well as being non-PVC, the film contains no added chlorine or halogens and uses 58 per cent less solvents than conventional films, eliminating potential hazards to the environment at end of life.

Stagecoach wanted to invest in special graphics to promote its 100 per cent biofuel buses and created the tree-themed concept with cut-out floating green leaves to create maximum impact without obscuring the view through the windows for passengers.

Alan Watson, general manager at OPG, a 3M Select Platinum partner, said: “When Stagecoach presented us with the design, we suggested taking the environmental theme further by printing the graphics on the latest Envision non-PVC vinyl film from 3M. This is an intermediate film that combines enhanced sustainability with ideal performance.”

OPG used solvent-free latex ink technology to print the leaf graphics in three pieces and these were then laminated and profile cut before being applied to the buses on a single Sunday to minimise disruption to services.

3M Envision Print Wrap Film 48C is extremely durable, especially when combined with Envision Gloss Overlaminate 8048G by 3M. It has a life-span of up to five years, even when exposed to extremes of weather and harsh vehicle-cleaning regimes.

The film also incorporates innovative features, such as 3M Comply Adhesive with air-release channels as well as 3M Controltac Graphic Film Technology that is repositionable to allow fast and easy installation.

Said Alan: “Our applicators were already familiar with the Envision range and had quickly become proficient after only minimal training. Conformability is as good as with conventional intermediate films and the Comply Adhesive by 3M is known for its applicator-friendly properties.”

Talk to us about a project