[4] Optare constructed the Tempo as an all welded heavy-duty box section 'one-piece' integral (unconventionally for the time)[2] from stainless and carbon steel dressed in a mix of GFRP (fibreglass) and aluminium modular exterior panels with sleek bonded glazing (no gasketted), integrating easy maintenance features like swing out headlamp clusters and multiple LED lamps.

[9] Tempo cabs, set for an optimal driver/passenger height, include a steering column with telescopic tilt and reach and later Optare's computerised 'EcoDrive' gauge pod with TFT.

[10][11] Produced in collaboration with Actia,[12] the revised dashboard incorporates telematics analysis with the ability to alert both the driver and operator in realtime (latter over the internet) to fuel consumption, maintenance issues and driving style.

ZF 8098 steering gear is implemented through a MAN V9-65L-03 drop centre low-floor front axle suspended on a further two air bags (with electronic kneeling capabilities).

[18][19] This technology was integrated into ten 10.6 metre variants, which also featured Transport for London spec double doors, leaving space for 28 seats.

A notable reversal on the original design,[20][21] ZF's 6HP500 six-speed transmission could be specified as an alternative to the now standard Allison T310R gearbox – both of which feature integral retarders.

[22] Between Trentbarton, transport design and branding agency Best Impressions (led by Ray Stenning) and Optare -featuring suggestions and ideas from Nottingham-area bus users- the Tempo SR was born.

[22] The design reportedly drew on inspiration from Stenning's 'design heroes' Raymond Loewy and Pininfarina, with close attention paid to details.

[1] Trentbarton and Manchester Airport have both purchased a number of Tempo SRs, though Ipswich Buses are now their biggest UK operator, having taken on Trent Barton's fleet.

[30] Beginning with KVG in Kiel, Germany as 713, registered KI-EL 7713, in 2010 it moved to Breda, Netherlands where it was re-registered BV-VH 41 and operated by Arriva as fleet no.