0116 Busline Magazine

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UMA Expo In Atlanta Busline Motorcoach Feature

Great Canadian Trailways Kitchener, ON

Carrie Butler General Manager

Busline Transit Feature

Lextran Lexington, KY

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Leading the industry starts with a winning team. team

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CONTENTS

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JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2016 Published by Rankin Publishing, Inc. www.buslinemag.com

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IN THIS ISSUE Combined Strengths Of Owners Power Great Canadian Trailways .........................8

Serving Kentucky Area

Lextran Carries 5 Million Passengers Annually ...........................26 UMA Expo Heads To Atlanta..........................................................36 Busline’s Buyers Guide To

Seating & Fabrics.........................................52

Busline’s Buyers Guide To Vehicle

Lifts ..................................................56 RAPID RESPONSE ..................................Page 6

Busline Vehicle Showcase

MOTORCOACHES 58 - 65

INDUSTRY NEWS .................................Page 39 ON THE COVER: Lorna and Larry Hundt, of Great Canadian Trailways, stand next to one of their Prevost motorcoaches at the company's Kitchener, ON, facility.

See page 8.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS JANUARY 2016 January 9-12 American Bus Association (ABA) Marketplace Louisville, KY Info: 202-842-1645

May 15-18 APTA Bus & Paratransit Conference Charlotte, NC Info: 202-496-4800 May 22-27 Community Transportation Association of America (CTAA) Expo 2016 Portland, OR Info: 800-891-0590

January 31 - February 4 United Motorcoach Association (UMA) Motorcoach Expo Atlanta, GA Info: 800-424-8262 MAY 2016 May 14-18 Canadian Urban Transit Association (CUTA) Annual Conference Halifax, Nova Scotia Info: 416-365-9800

JULY 2016 July 16-20 National School Transportation Association (NSTA) Annual Meeting & Convention Greensboro, NC Info: 703-684-3200

AUGUST 2016 August 2-4 International Motorcoach Group (IMG) Strategic Alliance Meeting Norfolk, VA Info: 888-447-3466 SEPTEMBER 2016 September 11-14 APTA Annual Meeting Los Angeles, CA Info: 202-496-4800 September 19-21 BusCon 2016 Indianapolis, IN Info: 800-576-8788

Busline Magazine is published 6 times a year by Rankin Publishing, Inc., 204 E. Main, P.O. Box 130, Arcola, IL 61910-0130.

Publisher assumes no liability whatsoever for content of any advertisement or editorial material contained herein. Copyright 2016 Rankin Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form without written consent of Rankin Publishing, Inc. Subscription Rates in United States: 6 issues $25. Single Copy rate: $10 including postage/handling; Buyer’s Guide $15 including postage/handling. International rates: 6 issue annual Air Mail Subscription $60 U.S. dollars net

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January/February 2016

EDITORIAL & CORPORATE OFFICES

Rankin Publishing Co., Inc. Don Rankin and Linda Rankin, Publishers 204 E. Main Street • P.O. Box 130 Arcola, IL 61910-0130, USA Email: drankin@consolidated.net Website: www.rankinpublishing.com (800) 598-8083 (U.S.) • (217) 268-4959 Fax: (217) 268-4815 Editorial: Harrell Kerkhoff, Editor Rick Mullen, Associate Editor Design: David Opdyke Reception: Gina Volk Advertising Contact Kevin Kennedy @ 623-434-8959 Email: kevloraz@cox.net Or Don Rankin @ 800-598-8083 Fax: 217-268-4815 Email: drankin@consolidated.net

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52

Prevost ........................58

Volvo ...........................59

Motor Coach Industries...60

56 Visit Busline at UMA Expo

BOOTH #326 Glaval Bus....................62

Company

Temsa..........................62

Website

ABC Companies ............64

Page #

ABC Companies www.abc-companies.com Advantage Funding www.advantagefund.com Alliance Bus Group www.alliancebusgroup.com Altro Transflor www.altrotransflor.com Amaya-Astron www.amaya-astron.com.mx American Cooling Technology, Inc. www.actusa.us.com AngelTrax www.angeltrax.com Atlantic Detroit Diesel-Allison www.atlanticdda.com Bauer’s Intelligent Transportation www.bauerscertifiedpreowned.com Bergen Auto Upholstery Co., Inc. www.bergenseat.com Bitimec www.bitimec.com Bitzer www.bitzerus.com Bridgestone www.bridgestonefirestonemileagesales.com Camira www.camirafabrics.com Complete Coach Works www.completecoach.com De Leo Transportation Fabrics www.deleotf.com Distinctive Systems www.distinctive-systems.com Dixie Electric Ltd. www.dixie-electric.com Eno Center For Transportation www.enotrans.org Euramtec Corporation www.euramtec.com EverBank www.everbankcommercialfinance.com Freightliner www.freightlinerchassis.com Glaval Bus www.GlavalBus.com Hometown Trolley www.hometowntrolley.com Kirks Automotive, Inc. www.kirksauto.com LaFrance Industries www.mvmills.com/lafranceindustries Lancer Insurance www.lancerinsurance.com Lazzerini www.lazzerini.it/en/

67 20 7 24 18 37 9 33 30 54 22 29 31 54 39 52 45 47 51 42 40 3 23 15 51 53 19 55

Company Micro Bird Commercial Midwest Bus Corporation Mile-X Mohawk Lifts Motor Coach Industries (MCI) Motorcoach Tire Sales.com Onspot Automatic Tire Chains Prevost ProAir, LLC Profusion Industries Protective Insurance Company Relational Bus Systems Resorts Casino Hotel RUD Chain, Inc. Safety Step Sardo Bus & Coach Upholstery SEFAC Service Insurance Shriver Insurance Agency Sutrak TEMSA TransitWorks TRP Bus Parts Turtle Top UMA Motorcoach Expo Vanner Power Willingham Inc.

UMA Motorcoach Expo Booth Numbers Current As Of 12/21/15, courtesy of www.motorcoachexpo.com.

Website

Page #

www.mbcbus.com www.midwestbus.com www.mile-x.com www.mohawklifts.com www.mcicoach.com www.motorcoachtiresales.com www.onspot.com www.prevostcar.com www.proairllc.com www.ProFusionIndustries.com www.protectiveinsurance.com www.rbs2000.com www.ResortsAC.com www.rotogrip.us www.safetystep.net www.sardobus.com www.slec.com www.serviceins.com www.shriverinsurance.com www.sutrakusa.com www.temsa.com www.Transit-Works.com www.TRPParts.com www.turtletop.com www.motorcoachexpo.com www.vanner.com www.willinghaminc.com

Read or Download Complete Issues Of Busline Magazine Online At: www.buslinemag.com Page 6

BUSLINE

January/February 2016

11 28 49 57 2 12 47 5, 68 43 16 35 38 48 14 50 17, 55 56 50 66 41 21 46 34 13 27 10, 32 44

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By Harrell Kerkhoff Busline Magazine Editor

P The Great Canadian headquarters (below) is located in Kitchener, ON. Shown above, left to right, are Lorna Hundt, Michelle Hundt Tupman, Andrea Hundt Lorentz and Larry Hundt.

Combined Strengths Of Owners POWER Great Canadian Trailways Page 8

BUSLINE

January/February 2016

ride in country as well as the motorcoach industry has led Larry and Lorna Hundt to build a successful transportation enterprise in Canada over the past three-plus decades. The couple, married for 32 years, has allowed each other to use his and her specific strengths for the betterment of the family-owned/operated Great Canadian Trailways and their affiliated companies.

“We once took an assessment test that identifies individual talents,” Lorna Hundt said. “According to the assessment, Larry’s No. 1 talent is ‘ideation,’ which means he is the idea guy. My No. 1 talent is ‘activator,’ which means I’m a doer. The test showed what we had already known; that together we make a great team.”

Although both go by the job title of managing director, technically Larry Hundt is president of Great Canadian Coaches & Fleet Services; while Lorna Hundt is president of Great Canadian Holidays, the tour arm of the organization. The motorcoach operation is known as Great Canadian Trailways, due to its

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affiliation with the Trailways Transportation System. It provides both tour and charter travel with a fleet of 53 vehicles.

Overall, the Hundts employ approximately 160 people from a sprawling facility in Kitchener, ON, a city of around 219,000 residents, located 57 miles west of Toronto. The couple’s two daughters, as well as a sonin-law, are also involved in the family business.

One daughter, Michelle Hundt Tupman, serves as director of tour operations for Great Canadian Holidays. “Michelle specialized in English and history in college and never thought she would be involved with the family business, but has become an integral part of our tour operation,� Lorna Hundt said. “She brings a lot to the table. Having grown up in the family business, Michelle instinctively knows plenty about the tour business, and has that youthful energy. “Our youngest daughter, Andrea Hundt Lorentz, serves as marketing director. She went to school in graphic design and worked for an advertising agency before joining the family business. Andrea looks after marketing and brand management. She also designed customized vinyl wraps for some of our coaches. These wraps have proven to be huge marketing tools. Her husband, Joel Lorentz, is our human resources manager.�

The Building Of ‘Great Canadian’

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lthough the history of the Great Canadian family of companies dates to 1984, both Larry and Lorna Hundt have been involved with various types of transportation services for most of their adult lives.

While in college at the University of Waterloo (ON), Larry Hundt became what he described as “a campus entrepreneur.� “I was involved in many business-related activities. This included student bus transportation between Waterloo and Toronto during the weekends. Other trips I helped with featured travel to and from the Quebec Winter Carnival (in Quebec City, QC).�

Larry Hundt soon developed a great fondness for the bus industry, which led him to seriously follow this career path. He started working full time for a motorcoach company in 1972, and later took a job with a larger tour business. “While at the tour company, I hired an assistant which happened to be Lorna. We have been working together ever since,� Larry Hundt said.

The couple eventually started their own company with the help of a third business partner. It was called Golden Age Travel and was in operation from 1977 to 1984 to service the senior citizen travel market. “After some time, Lorna and I decided to start our own business in 1984 under the name Travel Ventures. It focused on innovative and large group travel,� Larry Hundt said. “It flourished, but there were challenges with finding reliable coach companies to serve our tour clients.�

To answer this challenge in 1990, the Hundts purchased a new H�Series Prevost European�style motorcoach. They were attracted to the vehicle’s panoramic windows for their sightseeing customers. “Buying that particular motorcoach was the best decision we ever made,� Larry Hundt said. “We have built a lot of our success around that particular Prevost model. It’s still a very important part of where we are as a motorcoach operation.�

Today, Great Canadian Trailways operates 43 Prevost H3-45 motorcoaches. “These vehicles provide great views because of their large windows, while the cabin area is very spacious. We get maximum cabin and luggage space due to the height of our motorcoaches,� Larry Hundt said. “That has been a huge selling feature for us — luggage capacity and visibility.�

Events within Canada in the mid-1990s led the Hundts to show their pride as Canadians, leading to a major rebranding effort at their company. This was spurred by actions surrounding the October 1995 Quebec referendum, which asked voters in the Canadian province of Quebec whether the province should proclaim national sovereignty and become an independent state. The Hundts were in favor of keeping Canada united, and they attended several unity rallies at various Canadian cities dur-

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ing the year. n Coach 1961, named The vote was close, but “Great Canadians,” featurresidents of Quebec chose ing notable prime minisagainst becoming an indeters, humanitarians, vispendent state. After attionaries and philanthroending the unity rallies pists from the country. and watching the election “Our coach numbers are results, Lorna and Larry not part of a routine sysHundt decided that the tem that is used by most operators. Instead, the company’s fleet should numbers relate to the exemplify Canadian hismurals on each coach, featory. They hired an artist turing historical signifito paint murals on the cance. Our numbers are all sides of several company over the map,” Larry motorcoaches, featuring a Hundt said with a laugh. variety of famous Can“There have been approxiadian people and themes. mately 15 different themes The vehicles included a painted on our motorcorresponding numbering coaches. We have also system which is still in Coach Operations Manager Jim Pattison, left, and COO Pat Grobe display a banner repeated some of these use today. at the launch of the company’s 30th anniversary cruise getaway. themes with different variExamples of motorcoaches at Great Canadian Trailways featuring these murals now include: ations. The total number of our vehicles featuring painted murals is around 25. n Coach No. 99, named “The Great Canadian Game,” which is dedi“Unfortunately, it’s hard for our artist to keep up. It takes about six to cated to hockey in Canada; seven weeks of dedicated work to finish a mural on both sides of the vehin Coach No. 1867, named “Great Canadian Moments,” depicting pivotal scenes of Canada’s history, including the Canadian Confederation of cle. Therefore, our daughter Andrea has designed vinyl graphics that are 1867, which was the process by which the federal Dominion of Canada also used on some of our vehicles. They are very reflective and beautiful, especially whenever light shines on the side of the coach.” was formed; With such elaborate artwork featured on various Great Canadian n Coach No. 1919, named “Lest We Forget,” paying tribute to Canadian men and women who have served Canada in times of war and Trailways’ motorcoaches, it’s not hard to understand the strong interest these vehicles have garnered over the years with not only passengers, but during peacekeeping missions; and,

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motorcoach companies fail to do properly.

“It’s my feeling that many operators miss a golden opportunity to properly use their ‘traveling billboards.’ There is 100 feet of space (on a full-size motorcoach) that travels down highways. Many motorcoaches just have a stripe along their sides, with no real message,” Larry Hundt said. “These operators aren’t taking advantage of the phenomenal opportunity they have to distinguish their motorcoaches from the competition. They aren’t promoting their market area or places they go to. We know, from our This motorcoach from Great Canadian Trailways features a vinyl wrap showing famous scenes in Canada. experience, the impact our other people on the road and at various destinations. coaches have to the marketing of Great Canadian Trailways.”

“Our motorcoaches are often parked at major tourist areas, Another big year for the Hundts was 1998, when two significant allowing people from all over the world to see and take photos. It’s events occurred, starting with a company name change — from Travel not uncommon to have 100-plus photographs taken in a day of one Ventures to Great Canadian Holidays & Coaches. The Hundts also of our motorcoaches by people who are simply passing by,” Larry came up with the idea of a company mascot, “Corporal Mackenzie.”

Hundt said. “We have also found that our passengers are very proud to The mascot is a person inside a beaver costume, dressed in a Royal ride in these vehicles, and it gives them a special conversation piece for Canadian Mounted Police uniform. Corporal Mackenzie makes appearwhen they go home.” ances at several company events.

Larry and Lorna Hundt are big proponents of having the appearance of Also in 1998, the company received an expansion to its operating motorcoaches stand out. This is something Larry Hundt feels many rights.

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“The Ontario market is still highly regulated. We were granted a license in 1998 that covers much of southern Ontario. This allowed us to expand our coach business, from 7 to a current fleet of 53 motorcoaches,” Larry Hundt said.

Six years later, in 2004, Great Canadian became a member of the Trailways Transportation System.

Making Good Use Out Of A Rather Large Floor Plan

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s Great Canadian Trailways continued its growth path during the start of the 21st century, a need developed to find more space for the company’s motorcoach and tour operations. At first Larry and Lorna Hundt looked into purchasing property in the Kitchener area, with the idea of building a new facility.

Plans changed, however, when a 81,000square-foot factory building in Kitchener, located near the company’s original site, became available. It came with 12 acres of land.

“We looked at the cost of the existing factory structure against the cost of building a new facility, and we found we could get three times the value and size by purchasing the old factory and turning it into a facility that would meet our needs. The purchase occurred in 2008,” Larry Hundt said. “Our goal was to carve up a big chunk of the building and lease it to other companies, with the idea of using the rental income to help pay our mortage.

As it turned out, however, my entrepreneur instincts took over.

Various painted murals on motorcoaches operated by Great Canadian Trailways depict important events and people associated with Canada.

“I started coming up with ideas on how we could put our own businesses in that facility, sharing synergies with our core business.”

Eventually, the Hundts opened an auto care center in part of the company’s new facility, offering many warranty-approved auto services including transmission repairs, oil changes, collision repair and paint work as well as auto detailing. In 2011, the Great Canadian Truck

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& Fleet Services also opened, offering similar work for trucks, buses and motorcoaches. The company’s complex also includes a fueling station.

“Since then, we have also included a national franchise at our facility called Great Canadian Tirecraft® Auto Centre. This allows us to buy and sell many brands of tires, at very good pricing,” Larry Hundt said. “An added feature, due to our large storage capacity, is that we actually have room to store other people’s off-season summer and winter tires.

“Our facility has become very busy with these different enterprises.

We have rented out a small portion of the building to other companies.

However, close to 80 percent of the building is used by our own businesses.”

Larry Hundt noted that soon after the factory building was purchased by his company in 2008, the bottom dropped out of the Canadian and U.S. economies due to the Great Recession.

“We were able to work through this challenge and still complete the needed renovation work,” Larry Hundt said. “I now feel we have a wonderful future with this facility. The synergy we have in place with our different services allows us to meet various customer needs in an efficient way.”

During the renovation process, the Hundts and their staff focused on making the facility as “green” as possible. This included a new roof with additional insulation, the installation of an air curtain that keeps cold air out while large garage doors are open, and 330 solar roof panels, which are now generating electricity.

“We also installed new lighting within the building. All of this work is helping us reap the benefits of electricity and heat savings,” Larry Hundt said.

To market the company’s green initiative, Andrea Hundt Lorentz developed a “Think Green, Go Blue” logo.

“We are promoting how ‘green’ motorcoach travel is, serving as a viable alternative to driving cars,” Lorna Hundt said. “This is one of our industry challenges for the future. There is a large segment of the population that is maturing. They are the Baby Boomers. Getting them to give up their steering wheels and try motorcoach travel is something that is both exciting and challenging.”

Another component to Great Canadian Trailways’ success can be attributed to its home city. Kitchener is part of a growing metropolitan region in southern Ontario that includes neighboring cities Waterloo and Cambridge. This area has easy access to nearby and well known southern Ontario destinations.

“We are very fortunate to be located in a strategic part of southern Ontario, with a high population center,” Larry Hundt said. “We are very close to Canada’s No. 1 tourist attraction, which is Niagara Falls.

Meanwhile, Toronto is a very vibrant gateway city that includes a lot of international clients.

“We are also within a day’s drive of many major tourist cities in the United States such as Boston, New York, Philadelphia, Washington, D.C. and Chicago.”

To help spread our Great Canadian Trailways’ coaches to different travel markets, the company has developed four satellite facilities that include maintenance and cleaning capabilities.

“These locations help us position vehicles into key regions, while minimizing deadhead and driver hours-of-service issues,” Larry Hundt said.

“They are all located in southern Ontario.”

He added that Great Canadian Trailways’ motorcoaches can be found throughout Canada and the United States for both tour and charter work.

“I feel we have captured a good part of the market in southern Ontario and beyond,” Larry Hundt said. “We are ranked as the largest motorcoach tour company and the second largest charter operation in Ontario.”

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Adapting To Changing Travel Demands

E

ntering the 32nd year of operation, there are many reasons for the success the Hundts have enjoyed as business owners. One important factor, according to Larry Hundt, is the cooperation between the tour and motorcoach segments.

“Our tour business works hand-in-hand with our coach company.

This has improved overall utilization, which is very important,” he said. “If a motorcoach operator is just sitting around waiting for the telephone to ring, and depending on the charter market, he/she is going to have a lot of ups and downs in business. Our entire transportation operation benefits from a balanced schedule to better survive the slower times.”

On the tour side, the Hundts recognized several years ago that their company had to expand from just serving preformed groups. This was due to changes in the way people wanted to tour.

“We have seen other tour companies come and go over the years. It’s important to constantly change in the tour business and adapt to the marketplace,” Larry Hundt said.

Lorna Hundt added: “We began our business fully as a tour operation, with 95 percent of our customers coming from preformed groups.

However, we saw the need to expand the way we marketed our tour products. This involved working with different travel agents. It was a very big step for us because we had always dealt directly with consumers, but our travel agent partners have been wonderfully supportive.

“We have been able to significantly broaden our base, and can now originate our tours pretty much all across southern Ontario. It helps that we provide shuttle services so that our tour passengers can be transported, at no charge, to and from their hometowns and the locations of our motorcoaches.”

The company’s tour business has also benefitted through expansion of its product offerings.

“We started in business by specializing in tours directed toward retirees.

Although this remains the majority of our tour work, we also provide more special interest tours,” Lorna Hundt said. “There are all kinds of things and places that people have an interest seeing, and it’s not just from senior citizens. The special interest genre has grown by leaps and bounds.”

A little mystery while on a motorcoach tour can also help. In fact, Great Canadian Trailways has taken many groups on tours where the passengers have no idea where they are headed — and are more than happy to pay for such an experience.

“A lot of times people will ask, ‘What is your most popular destination?’ I jokingly tell them, ‘I can’t really tell you, because it’s the mystery tour,’” Larry Hundt said. “Lorna and I have put together hundreds of tours over the years directed to mystery destinations. There are many customers who like an element of surprise and fun. They put their trust in our hands, which we don’t take lightly. We transport them for three or four days and visit some wonderful destinations.

“We make sure these mystery tours are full of surprises, entertainment, good food and great things to see. We have conducted the single coach departure mystery tour for close to 20 years. We have also moved as many as 750 people, in 15 coaches, on a four-day mystery tour in the dead of winter.”

Quality Equipment, Great Employees

T

here are many parts to motorcoach travel that can “make or break” a trip for passengers. One important aspect to a successful trip is the coach itself.

“We have found great success since the very beginning with the Prevost H-Series,” Larry Hundt said. “We continue to embrace technolo-

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gy found with these vehicles. This includes satellite and various monitoring systems as well as electronic logs. Our coaches also have electrical outlets, and are Wi-Fi equipped for both sides of the U.S.Canadian border.”

Great Canadian Trailways uses full-size motorcoaches for the core of its business, although it does find uses for other vehicle types such as 12passenger vans and mid-size coaches.

“We have been part of several Prevost focus groups that focus on different types of equipment that best suit customer needs. I have always found these to be interesting sessions,” Larry Hundt said. “Certainly, motorcoaches have changed tremendously over the years, and I think motorcoach manufacturers have done a good job in trying to be reactive to the needs of operators. I respect Prevost for having these focus groups, and working hard to see how technology can make a true difference.”

He added that the company’s modern electronic logging and satellite systems allow staff to accurately track Great Canadian Trailways’ vehicles while on the road. This has proven very beneficial, especially during the winter.

“We had a situation once with lake-effect snow that involved some of our vehicles. We were able to track these coaches and talk with the drivers, helping them take alternate routes away from the snow,” Larry Hundt said. “As a company, we have also benefited by using software that interfaces quite well between our tour and coach sides of the business.”

Having in place a quality workforce, encompassing a wide variety of positions, is also imperative while running a transportation operation.

This includes hiring drivers who can be entrusted to safely transport a varied customer base.

“Our drivers are very skilled at providing experienced transportation to different types of destinations. They know and understand how important customer service is, doing those extra things for clients that can make a

big difference,” Larry Hundt said. “We have been very fortunate in our driver recruitment process. Many drivers who exhibit good personal skill levels have gravitated toward our company due to the type of tour work we provide.

“Being a good motorcoach driver is much more than just standing at the bottom of the bus stairwell with a smile on his/her face. It’s all about getting customers safely to their destinations on time, while fully dressed in a uniform. It’s important that motorcoach drivers look and dress professional. There are so many components to customer service that really make a difference. We look for drivers who come with great people skills, while also capable of providing safe and wonderful transportation.”

Lorna Hundt added that most good tour drivers also have a natural sense of curiosity and wonder, and enjoy seeing, learning and sharing travel experiences.

“That is what the experience of touring is all about. It’s not just going from ‘Point A’ to ‘Point B,’ but enjoying the good things that can happen in the middle of a trip,” she said.

One challenge the Hundts have had to work through, when it comes to the retention of drivers and mechanics, is that of competing with the level of wages and benefits offered by many public sector transportation providers.

“Quick frankly, it’s hard to compete with governments. We have worked very hard at recruiting and developing drivers and mechanics, only to find them leaving us for higher wages at a government facility,” Larry Hundt said. “There are also challenges pertaining to increased governmental regulations in both Canada and the United States.”

Winter weather can provide obstacles as well, especially when traversing highways across Canada and the northern United States. However, officials and drivers at Great Canadian Trailways are very adept at handling snowy conditions.

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“Our coaches are all equipped with engine heaters, which certainly helps the starting process. We also use tires with a particular tread that provides very solid grip,” Hundt said. “The drivers we employ are good at what they do and are used to snowy conditions. Our coaches are rarely grounded due to winter weather; we usually get through the season pretty unscathed.”

Looking Forward To Increased Demand

D

espite challenges that are always present, Lorna and Larry Hundt remain optimistic about the future of not only their businesses, but overall bus and motorcoach transportation in the years ahead.

“On the tour side, we feel business will continue to expand as more Baby Boomers let go of their steering wheels. It’s important to recognize that they have different tendencies than members of the generation before them, such as booking later in the process and wanting more choices,” Lorna Hundt said.

Larry Hundt added that as traffic congestion becomes a greater problem throughout North America, he expects to see more reliance on bus/motorcoach travel by people wanting to find better ways to get to and from work. A larger international presence in North America should also help the bus/motorcoach industry.

“Many people from China are becoming world travelers. There is also a lot of international travel potential from other areas of Asia as well as Europe. These people want to see Canada and the United States, providing a great opportunity for motorcoach growth,” he said.

It’s therefore important, Larry Hundt added, to innovate as a bus/coach provider and guard against complacency.

“It’s good to recognize future trends and adapt. I feel we, as a company, have been able to do this well,” Larry Hundt said.

Lorna Hundt added: “We never want to forget those things that enhance the travel experience for customers. It’s very easy to sit behind a desk and think only about operating costs. At the end of the day, however, it always comes down to pleasing those customers traveling in our vehicles. This always has to be ‘top of mind.’”

To help gauge customers’ sentiment while traveling on a Great Canadian Trailways vehicle, the company uses comment forms that have proven very popular.

“We receive a shockingly high number of these forms, and I still read every single one,” Lorna Hundt said. “It’s a lot when considering we have over 250 multi-day tours a year, while also receiving completed forms from one-day trips and the charter side of our operation.

“Even with a customer base as large as ours, there is still that level of familiarity and comfort associated with many of the passengers who are coming aboard our vehicles. It’s important to never lose that accessibility.”

Being active in the motorcoach industry outside of southern Ontario is also important to the Hundts. In fact, Larry Hundt has served several years on the United Motorcoach Association (UMA) Board of Directors. It’s a service he greatly enjoys, and includes being the conference chairman for the annual UMA Expo.

“I love this industry, and my involvement with UMA has given me the opportunity to contribute and give back. You can’t run a business in isolation. The more you network and get involved, the more you are going to learn,” Hundt said. “I do feel it’s important to give back to the motorcoach industry, and help it move forward through creative thinking.”

Contact: Great Canadian Trailways, 353 Manitou Drive, Kitchener, Ontario, Canada N2C 1L5. Phone: 519-896-8687.

Website: www.greatcanadiancoaches.com.

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Busline Magazine’s

Suppliers 2016

Company Profile

A Directory of Manufacturers and Suppliers to the Motorcoach, Transit, Specialty Vehicle & Para-Transit Industries

Free Listing

Deadline: Wednesday, June 1, 2016

Mail to: Busline Magazine, 204 E. Main, P.O. Box 130, Arcola, IL 61910 - USA Phone 800-598-8083 (US) • 217-268-4959 • FAX 217-268-4815

The following form will be used to compile a company profile to be included in Suppliers 2016, published in the July/August 2016 issue of Busline Magazine. Suppliers 2016 is an international suppliers directory that will be read all year long by motorcoach, transit, specialty vehicle and para-transit companies.

Please fill out and return as soon as possible and no later than Wednesday, June 1, 2016. You may also email the information requested below to: drankin@consolidated.net; please use subject line, “Busline Suppliers.” Thank you for your help in making this suppliers directory the most helpful and most comprehensive yet.

SUBMITTED BY: ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________ COMPANY NAME: _________________________________________________________________________________________________________

ADDRESS: _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________ CITY:____________________________________________ STATE: ___________________ ZIP: ________ COUNTRY: _____________________ TELEPHONE: _________________________________________ E-MAIL: __________________________________________________________ WEBSITE: _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

COMPANY OFFICERS: _____________________________________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

PRODUCTS (150 WORDS MAXIMUM) Please list products and services only.

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

0116Busline.FINAL_Layout 1 1/18/16 9:15 AM Page 26

Above: Lextran General Manager Carrie Butler (left) and Director of Community Affairs Jill Barnett are looking forward to the move to the transit system’s new state-of-the-art facility currently under construction (lower left).

By Rick Mullen, Busline Magazine Associate Editor

or many, Lexington, KY, means horse racing and big-time collegiate basketball. There is more, however, to Kentucky’s second largest city, as it is home to several major companies and was named by time.com as one of its five “great small cities to retire.” Another major asset of the city is its public transit system, Lextran, as many local residents traveling to and from work and school can attest.

“Lextran is the transit authority of the Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government,” said Lextran General Manager Carrie Butler, during a recent interview with Busline Magazine at the system’s headquarters in Lexington. “We provide both fixed-route and paratransit service in Fayette County, carrying about 5 million passengers a year between those two services.

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the men’s basketball program, well “We have a contract with American known to hoops fans nationwide. It is the Red Cross WHEELS for our paratransit largest indoor sporting arena in the counservice, which is provided countywide, try, according to www.rupparena.com, in addition to the 3/4-mile service with a capacity of 23,500 people. It is requirements as per the Americans with named after legendary Kentucky Wildcats Disabilities Act (ADA). We have a hubmen’s basketball coach Adolph Rupp, and-spoke system with mostly all of our who headed the team from 1930 to 1972. routes converging at the downtown tran“We provide service on the University sit center. From the transit center, riders of Kentucky campus,� Butler said. “They can transfer and travel to just about anyhave a few buses that they operate, but where in the city. We have a couple of we provide the largest component of the passenger waiting areas there with vendon-campus bus service.� ing machines.�

Lextran’s vision statement is: “To A customer service center is also enhance the quality of life for the citilocated at Lextran’s downtown transit zens of Lexington and beyond by procenter, where calls are taken from viding optimal mobility solutions.� patrons who have an issue or who want The transit system’s mission statement to offer feedback. is: “To become the preferred choice of “We have an open-door policy,� transportation by providing courteous, Butler said. “We also have a Passenger timely, safe, accessible, affordable, susAdvisory Committee, comprised of ridTracy Sewell, director of operations tainable and reliable transportation ers and other interested community members. The committee meets every other month to talk about customer modes. We strive to demonstrate operational excellence, while ensuring our customers a positive experience.� issues or challenges customers might have. “The population of Fayette County is about 350,000 people. Lexington Moving Down The Street is the home of the University of Kentucky Wildcats, several major employers, including Xerox, Lexmark International, Amazon, and a number of breweries and distilleries. Other major attractions include n April 1972, the local government incorporated what is now known Keeneland horse racing facility and the Kentucky Horse Park.� as Lextran. Before 1972, the system had been privately owned.

The region is also known for its horse farms. Keeneland has been a Lextran’s current facility, housing administrative offices and maintehorse-racing mecca since 1936. In addition, Lexington is home to Red nance facilities, has been the system’s headquarters for nearly four Miles Harness Track, which is billed as the second oldest racing track in decades, Butler said. However, a new, larger state-of-the-art building is the nation. being constructed down the street from the system’s current location.

The University of Kentucky’s main campus is located in Lexington, Construction is about 75 percent completed. and Lexington is home of Rupp Arena, which serves as the home court of “The new construction will expand our maintenance facilities, as well

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as consolidate our administration offices,” Butler said. “We currently first and second quarters of 2016,” Butler said. “We will be building a have a satellite administration office. Also, expanding our maintenance CNG facility at the new location. We are working on a partnership with facilities will improve our service reliability, allowing us to fix vehicles the Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government to jointly share the CNG fueling station, but it hasn’t quicker and work on preventive maintenance issues. The new “We have several hybrid-electric buses in service been confirmed at this time. The majority of the rest of our fleet is facility will be a huge change and improvement for our riders and right now, and we are scheduled to take delivery clean-diesel.

“We have been able to purour organization. We have been in this current location about 40 of some CNG and electric vehicles during the first chase CNG buses because of the federal Congestion Mitigation years, and have outgrown the and second quarters of 2016.”

Air Quality Program, and the space. electric vehicles by way of the “The new facility will be — Lextran General Manager Carrie Butler federal Low or No Emissions LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certified. We will have some nice features at the Vehicle Program. We are supportive of those programs increasing. We are site, including bioswales for storm water retention, and other features to grateful for those funding sources, both to get into alternative fuel buses, and also to offer a more sustainable and environmentally friendly fleet.” support environmental sustainability.”

The first public transit system in Lexington was established in 1874 The Battle To Mitigate Traffic Congestion and featured oversized horse-drawn stagecoaches. From 1890 to 1938, streetcars were the mode of travel for what was called the Kentucky Traction and Terminal Company, owned by Kentucky Utilities. The sysextran operates 65 buses on its 22 fixed-routes. The system’s tem was sold to D.D. Stewart, who renamed it Lexington Railway System door-to-door paratransit service is also growing and is popular, when motor buses replaced the streetcars in early 1938. particularly with senior citizens, as the city has been touted as a The Lexington Railway System later was renamed the Lexington good place to retire.

“We are seeing a lot of growth in our paratransit service as the popuTransit Corporation, which underwent two more changes in ownerlation ages,” Butler said. “Lexington has won a number of recognitions ship and management, leading up to 1972.

Lextran’s new headquarters and maintenance facility will also include as being a great place in which to age, with the city’s relatively low cost of living and decent weather. We have definitely seen an increase in our a compressed natural gas (CNG) terminal.

“We have several hybrid-electric buses in service right now, and we are paratransit demand.”

Mainline bus service runs from 5:30 a.m. until 12:30 a.m. All Lextran scheduled to take delivery of some CNG and electric vehicles during the

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buses are wheelchair accessible and equipped with bike racks.

Lexington is located on Interstate 75, a major cross-country, north-south freeway, which is one of the longest in the U.S., extending from the northern tip of Michigan to southern Florida. The thoroughfare is also one of the busiest, expanding to six lanes even in rural areas.

Another heavily traveled roadway that commuters use to go in and out of Lexington is Nicholasville Road (U.S. 27). As in many other cities its size, Lexington battles traffic congestion, and Lextran is constantly exploring ways to help.

“Certainly we have some congestion problems,” Butler said. “One criticism that we hear is, ‘The bus takes too long.

It is stuck in the same traffic as everybody else. I can’t get to where I am going any faster than I can in my own car.’”

Lextran has studied ways in which bus transit can mitigate the congestion problem by perhaps adding designated routes for commuters or possibly designing some kind of bus rapid transit lanes.

Pictured from left are Wesley Shearer, Lextran maintenance supervisor, “A couple of years ago, we did an alternatives analysis Sharon Newman, transportation supervisor and Steve Rohde, transportation supervisor. study on the Nicholasville Road corridor,” said Lextran Director of Community Affairs Jill Barnett. “That is the road that Lexington, but that would involve a huge capital expenditure.”

One of the challenges in developing alternative routes to encourage the majority of commuters from outside the county use to access the city. The road, at various times of day, has interchangeable lanes. For commuters to ride the bus has to do with the layout of Lexington.

Barnett explained: “We don’t have a centralized employment core inbound traffic in the morning, there are multiple lanes to get commuters downtown, with only two serving as outbound lanes. Then, in here. We have one area that has a little bit of industry and another that the evening, that is reversed. We conducted the alternatives analysis has a little more industry. In some cities our size, there might be one to look at some options, like maybe a BRT route, or something simi- zone where there is a lot of industry and office parks. We don’t reallar. We hear people say it would be great to have light rail in ly have that. There are office parks spread throughout the city, so it is

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hard to design a route that might serve commuters. We know where the majority of commuters come into the city, but where they go, once they get into Lexington, is all over the place. It is difficult in that regard.”

Riding To Work And School

I

would mention Lextran on Twitter. I thought, ‘Why not have a way to communicate with them?’”

Currently, Lextran is on Facebook and Twitter.

“Social media has opened doors to interaction with riders,” Barnett said. “When people have a complaint, it gives us the opportunity to clarify, and to identify the problem and come up with a solution.

“Another example of being more responsive to students concerns routes that operate on the University of Kentucky campus. We also have a route that serves the periphery of the campus where student apartments, etc., are located.”

n discussing Lextran’s ridership demographic, rather than categorizing passengers as “transit dependent” or as “choice riders,” Butler said Lextran looks at why people ride the bus.

“About 70 percent of our riders use Lextran to get to work or school,” Butler said.

The rise of the Millennial generation is also “Social media has opened doors to interaction with riders. impacting “why” people ride the bus.

When people have a complaint, it gives us the opportunity to “Many younger people of the Millennial generation are delaying the purchase of a car, clarify, and to identify the problem and come up with a solution.” either because they don’t want to make such a purchase, or because of other reasons, includ— Lextran Director of Community Affairs Jill Barnett ing the benefits of taking public transit,” Butler added: “As many agencies have recognized, the days of printing Butler said.

Evidence would indicate many Millennials are buying into what is a pocket schedule and being done with it have gone by the wayside. We called “sharing economy,” also known as “collaborative consumption,” have a vibrant presence because of our website and social media, such as Butler explained. The sharing economy concept is a trend that involves Facebook and Twitter. With these communication platforms, we receive a the ability or preference of people to rent or borrow goods, rather than lot of responses about our service, especially from the student population purchasing them to own. Millennials also seem to more quickly embrace at the University of Kentucky, and we are able to communicate with peomodern communication technologies, such as smartphones, tablets, lap- ple in that way.

“We have made some improvements with the information available on tops and social media.

“When I started here six years ago, we weren’t involved in social mobile devices. We have developed a real-time information app. We are media,” Barnett said. “However, the ridership on our student routes was always looking for new ways to disseminate information. Jill (Barnett) growing faster than any of our other routes, and I started noticing students and our community affairs department have developed a nice campaign

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in conjunction with our Metropolitan Planning Organization.”

Barnett said: “The campaign touts ‘People You Count On Count on Lextran.’ It is, in part, a reminder to people, whether customers or not, that their tax dollars (for Lextran) contribute to economic development, quality of life, and mobility access for people who might not otherwise have a way to get around.”

Indeed, the public, whether users of Lextran or not, have an investment, as a significant chunk of the system’s funding comes from a local property tax.

“We are funded by a percentage of the property tax raised here in Fayette County,” Butler said. “This was the result of a voter referendum that passed in 2004.

From left, Ronda Brooks, receptionist; Roy Campbell, bus operator; Jerry Plummer and Bill Ratcliffe, mechanics We are very appreciative of that funding.

It helps us balance our operation, because we know what is coming local standpoint.”

While funding issues are challenges for most public transit operations, year-to-year. Obviously, federal funding sources are important as well.

“However, there are some challenges. The change from a discre- competing with Americans’ love for their automobiles is also an industrytionary capital program to a formula capital program for bus replace- wide challenge.

“People often do a lot of different things when they are out in their ment hit us, and other public transit agencies, hard. We were averaging about $1.5 million per year from discretionary rewards. We cars,” Butler said. “They go from home to the dry cleaner, for example.

They take their children to school and go grocery shopping. We underreceived nearly $500,000 less with the capital awards formula.

“We also receive support from the Commonwealth of Kentucky. stand that people do a lot on their trips, and that riding on a Lextran route However, public transit in Kentucky is lowest on the list of per capita is not often the most convenient way to go.”

Being a college town, there is some enthusiasm about bicycle travel spending. More money would help us match federal dollars from a

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and bike lanes can be spotted on city streets. “It is interesting to see how popular biking and some of the transportation demand management companies are,� Butler said. “I believe we can all work together. Maybe one day a person is going to ride a bike to work, and then another day he or she might take Lextran. People can leave their cars at home and use Uber to go out on Friday and Saturday nights.�

On the whole, both Butler and Barnett agree public transportation is being well received and has the support of the community. “‘When it comes to people using Lextran, more is better,� Butler said. “We receive a lot of positive remarks from the community. I think we have a good sense that people understand how important public transit is and what it means for individuals. We certainly would love to have more people using it, whether they are commuting to work or using it on the weekends to go to a park and spend time with their families. It is always great to have more riders.�

Barnett added: “The Millennial generation and the on-campus population are big segments of our rider base. We get good feedback from them about what we do and how they are able to use Lextran.�

To further reach out to current and potential riders, Lextran often visits schools and senior citizen facilities to promote the system and to teach people how to ride the bus. “We have a staff person who does a lot of community outreach,�

Barnett said. “She will go places such as the senior citizens center and middle school and high school career fairs. She not only teaches how to use the bus to get to and from jobs, she also shares what it is like to be an operator, or mechanic or any other position here.�

In reaching out to the community, Lextran and the local Salvation Army are involved in a life skills program. The system also has an ongoing relationship with the Winburn Middle School Family Resource Center.

“(Winburn) has a program in which middle school students learn how to balance a checkbook, how to purchase insurance, the do’s and don’ts of getting a credit card, etc.� Barnett said. “The program teaches life skills that aren’t really taught much in schools. “The program has evolved and also teaches students about the bus. It has been good for us to have a lot of face time with that group.�

Lextran also has relationships with some local employers whereby they purchase passes and then offer them to their employees at a discount. In addition, University of Kentucky students, faculty and staff, can ride the bus for free by showing their university IDs. Lextran Employees Go Beyond Call Of Duty

W

hile the recent spate of gun violence and terrorist attacks in the United States and elsewhere have many people a little skittish, riders can be assured Lextran staff members are highly trained in handling emergencies. “We have a director of safety and risk management (John Givens) on our senior management team,� Butler said. “We have a system safety and emergency preparedness plan. We think it is important to make sure that we have the foundation in our organization to understand what happens in an emergency. In addition, we maintain contact with first-line responders in the community, as well as the police department. We have a contract with the police department whereby officers provide services at our downtown transfer center. Police are also available to respond to any issue or emergency that would happen on a vehicle. We have video cameras on our vehicles and facilities.�

Mother Nature is also the cause of emergency events from time to time, as Lexington is not immune to rain and snow, and even hurricanes.

Indeed, the region was touched by the remnants of Superstorm Sandy,

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“One of our directors startwhich struck the East Coast ed here years ago as a bus in October 2012. operator,” Barnett said. “The “Last year, we had two route he operated was one of major snow events, and we our campus routes. One day, didn’t stop service. We kept while on his route, he met a running everyday,” Barnett young lady and they are now said. “At one point, we had married and have children more than 18 inches of and grandchildren.” snow on the ground. Our While some companies are operators came to work and facing the challenges of havdrove their buses and our ing an older workforce headmaintenance people were ing for retirement, Lextran’s on hand to keep them runworkforce has a good balance ning. of younger and older people, “Our maintenance empButler said. loyees were kind of the These colorful murals at Lextran’s facility depict several eras of “We have been experiencunsung heroes to passenpublic transportation in Lexington, Kentucky’s second largest city. ing some challenges in hiring gers, as they work behind operators,” she added. “I the scenes. In some cases, think right now is particularly challenging because of the holiday season. they left the shop and were out driving snowplows.”

Butler added: “We have 186 employees, including operators, mechan- There are many seasonal jobs available.”

Lextran is currently hiring new operators, Barnett said. An operator ics, service workers, utility workers and the administrative staff. They are the heart of what we do. I have been proud to work with this group of candidate must bring to the table a mix of good driving and customer people. They do a tremendous job in our community. I hope they under- service skills.

“Both safe driving skills and customer service skills are very imporstand how much of a difference they make in people’s lives everyday, getting them to work and to school, etc. Operators know their passengers tant,” Butler said. “Our operators have a very strong customer service mentality. We want to make sure the people we hire like working with very well.”

In speaking about how Lextran operators get to know their passengers, people. They must understand that the job is a people-to-people position.

We are looking for that mix of safety and customer service skills.”

Barnett told the story about how one operator met his future wife.

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January/February 2016

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Lextran has an extensive initial driver training program, as well as ongoing refresher training throughout the year.

“We recently extended the program we use for safe driving and refresher training,” Barnett said.

Goals And The Future

S

ome of the goals Butler has set for Lextran’s future have to do with a couple of significant events scheduled to take place next year.

With the transit system’s move into its new headquarters in 2016, Lextran officials will continue to explore the facility’s potential in the sustainable infrastructure arena.

In addition, Butler said, Lextran will continue to move forward with the diversification of it energy resources, with the planned delivery of electric and CNG vehicles.

“We are also looking to grow our service with some major employers in the city,” Butler said.

When it comes to expanding services down the road, Butler and Barnett said offering service within Fayette County is more feasible at this time, rather than trying to do any major projects beyond the county’s boundaries.

“As Jill (Barnett) mentioned earlier, we have explored the possibility of creating some kind of bus rapid transit or expanded commuter service in the Nicholasville Road corridor,” Butler said. “This route is used by people commuting back and forth from adjacent Jessamine County (just south of Lexington).

“In addition, there is a Toyota plant in Georgetown (KY), which is just north of Fayette County, and we have talked with Toyota officials about providing service to and from the factory. There are some transportation providers in adjacent counties that provide a small amount of rural trans-

portation. We are in contact and work with them all the time. They will bring people to our transit center if they need to come into Fayette County. Although there are no definite plans to expand in the next six months, these are some of the things we are exploring.”

One of the challenges with expanding to nearby counties is that Fayette County residents pay for the service as a part of their property tax. Indeed, this funding mechanism is how Lextran receives the majority of its operating funds, Barnett said.

She added: “There are people living in Fayette County who pay the tax, yet don’t have service. These people would likely ask, ‘I don’t have bus service, so why are you going outside the county?’”

Butler also offered some thoughts on what she sees for overall public transit in the near future.

“One positive development has been the interest in public transit shown by the Millennial generation, as well as by senior citizens,” Butler said. “I think it is a great time to be in transit in Lexington. The Millennial and senior citizen markets are growing and contributing to the value and importance of public transit. I think it is a great time.

“I also see public transit on a growth trajectory nationwide. When I talk to colleagues in some larger cities, such as San Francisco, Boston, and New York City, that have made an investment in rail and bus service, it is evident public transportation is really making a difference and is becoming more and more popular. It is also encouraging when cities such as Houston, Dallas and Los Angeles — traditionally car cities — are leading the way in transit design and transit facilities. If the tide is turning, it is certainly turning back toward transit.”

Contact: Lextran, 109 West Loudon Ave., Lexington, KY 40508.

Phone: 859-255-7756.

Website: www.lextran.com.

See us at UMA Expo Booth #721 January/February 2016

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Atlanta, GA, is the location for the 2016 United Motorcoach Association’s (UMA) Motorcoach Expo.

The annual event will take place January 31 through February 3 at the Georgia World Congress Center, and will include a large tradeshow, educational seminars and many networking opportunities.

Events begin on Sunday, January 31, with the 12th Annual Ray Dupuis Memorial Golf Tournament. It’s scheduled from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Marriott’s Stone Mountain Golf Club, in Stone Mountain, GA. Additionally, the UMA State Association Summit/FMCSA Listening Session is scheduled from 1 to 5 p.m. on Sunday at the Georgia World Congress Center.

Sunday’s events will conclude with the UMA Welcome Reception for all attendees. The event will take place from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Hyatt Recency Atlanta Centennial Ballroom.

Monday, February 1, starts with UMA registration from 7:30 a.m. to 6:45 p.m. at C1 and C2 lobby at the Georgia World Congress Center. There will be a continental breakfast at the foyer of the Georgia Ballroom from 8 to 8:30 a.m.

The Georgia Ballroom will be the site of the UMA Expo Opening Session, scheduled from 8:30 to 11 a.m. The session will include an address from keynote speaker Andrew Young, who is a former U.S. Congressman, U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations and Page 36

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Mayor of Atlanta. Also taking place at the Opening Session will be the annual UMA

UMA EXHIBIT HALL HOURS February 1 - 3

MONDAY, Sneak Preview 4:30 to 6:45 p.m.

TUESDAY 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

WEDNESDAY 9 a.m. - Noon Active Member Meeting and Legislative & Regulatory Update.

January/February 2016

The UMA Maintenance Interchange is 9:30 a.m to 4:30 p.m. on Monday. This event features motorcoach owners, operators and maintenance personnel discussing maintenance issues.

The first group of several UMA Concurrent Solution Sessions is scheduled from 11:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. on Monday. They are: n Being The Highest Priced Player In Your Market (Marketing); n Cash Flow Management (Finance); n Creative Ways To Retain Drivers (Operations); and, n Session 1 - Big Ideas, Small Fleet; Business 101; as well as Subcontracting, Farms-outs, And The New Leasing Requirement (Small Fleet Operator).

A UMA Associate/Travel Partner Membership Meeting is also scheduled for 11:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m., followed by the UMA Luncheon from 12:30 to 1:45 p.m. The luncheon will take place in the Georgia Ballroom.

The second group of UMA Concurrent Solution Sessions is scheduled from 2 to 3 p.m.

They are: n Integrating Online Marketing Such As

0116Busline.FINAL_Layout 1 1/18/16 9:15 AM Page 37

Emails, Websites, Social Media, Etc., With More Traditional Offline Marketing Including Print Advertising, Broadcast/Cable, Direct Mail, Etc. (Marketing); n Spader Business Management-Part 1 Financial Trends (Finance); n Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) - What Now? (Operations); and, n Session 2 - Cash Is King; The Fundamentals Of Regulatory Compliance; and Understanding IRP, IFTA, UCR and URS (Small Fleet Operator).

The third group of UMA Concurrent Solution Sessions on Monday is slated for 3:15 to 4:15 p.m. They are: n Reaching New Customers By Tapping Into Emerging Markets (Marketing); n Spader Business Management - Part 2 Managing Growth And Plateaus (Finance); n The Next Generation - How Are Millennials Looking At This Industry?

(Operations); and, n Session 3 - Equipment Maintenance For Small Fleet Operators; Managing A Breakdown; and Americans With Disabilities Act Compliance (Small Fleet Operator).

A major event on Monday will be the UMA Expo Exhibit Hall Sneak Preview, taking place from 4:30 to 6:45 p.m. in Halls C1 & C2. Exhibitors will give demonstrations

UMA Expo attendees meet with industry suppliers.

and showcase their latest industry products and services during the sneak preview.

Also scheduled for 4:30 to 6:45 p.m. on Monday is the first day of the Motorcoach Marketing Council’s silent auction, along with a live auction starting at 6 p.m. Both events will take place in the exhibit hall.

Two events are scheduled immediately following the Sneak Preview. A new function set for 7 to 10 p.m. is the UMA Expo Sneak Preview After-Party, with the site being the

World of Coca-Cola. In a separate event, the Go Motorcoach Annual Fundraiser is also scheduled for Monday evening at a site to be determined.

The 2016 UMA Motorcoach Expo on Tuesday, February 2, will begin at 7:30 a.m. with the UMA Maintenance Competition. This event, which will take place at the Southeastern Stages, Inc., facility in Atlanta, lasts until 11 a.m. and provides participants with a chance to compete against each other to solve different

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maintenance-related issues.

Tuesday’s UMA Expo registration is scheduled from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the C1 and C2 lobby. Meanwhile, a continental breakfast will be located outside the concurrent solution session rooms from 8:15 to 8:45 a.m.

The first group of UMA Concurrent Solution Sessions on Tuesday are slated for 8:45 to 9:45 a.m. They are: n Leveraging Your Current Customer Base (Marketing); n Putting The Best Financing Strategy In Place For Your Next Coach Purchase (Finance); and,

Equipment Utilization n Maximizing (Operations).

Also during Tuesday morning’s events, a National Association of Motorcoach Operators (NAMO) meeting is slated for 10 to 11 a.m.

The UMA Expo exhibit hall will be open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Tuesday, allowing attendees to visit a wide variety of vendors.

Lunch will be served at the exhibit hall from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on this day.

Also taking place on Tuesday will be several UMA Education Sessions at the exhibit hall.

Topics include: n How Tracking Technology Can Make Your

See us at UMA Expo Booth #732 Page 38

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January/February 2016

Business More Efficient (from 10:15 to 11:15 a.m.); n Like New, Re-energized, Reman or As Is What’s What When Purchasing Preowned Vehicles (from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.); n Reduce Downtime And Save Money With The Use Of Nickel Carbon (from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.); n Passenger Safety & Defensible Use Of Force (from 12:45 to 1:45 p.m.); n Heavy-Duty Diesel Vehicle Regulation Training For Entering California (from 12:45 to 1:45 p.m.); n Managing Large Claims In A Volatile Legal Environment (from 2 to 3 p.m.); n Vehicle And Driver Certifications Improve Margins, Save Fuel And Money And Gain Marketshare (from 2 to 3 p.m.); n Passenger & Driver Safety - Technology And The Motorcoach Experience (from 3:15 to 4:15 p.m.); and, FMCSA Record Retention & n Recordkeeping Requirements (from 3:15 to 4:15 p.m.).

The Motorcoach Marketing Council’s silent auction will take place for its second day, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., on Tuesday in the exhibit hall.

Meanwhile, the OMCA Coach Operator Council will meet from 2 to 3 p.m.

Tuesday’s final event will be the UMA Leadership Awards Celebration, scheduled from 6:30 to 11 p.m. at the Georgia Ballroom.

This will include a reception, dinner, presentation of awards and cigars/cordials.

The final day that the exhibit hall will be open for the 2016 UMA Motorcoach Expo is Wednesday, February 3. Show floor hours are 9 a.m. until noon, with registration beginning at 8 a.m.

The Motorcoach Marketing Council’s silent auction will take place for its third and final day, from 9 to 10 a.m. on Wednesday, while a brunch is scheduled from 10 a.m. to Noon. Both events will again be located in the exhibit hall.

Also on Wednesday will be three UMA Education Sessions at the exhibit hall. Topics include: n E-logs and ELDs Workshop (from 9:15 to 10:15 a.m.); n CVSA Inspection Demonstration (from 9:15 to 10:15 a.m.); and, n Using Your Coach As A Billboard For Your Company’s Brand (from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.).

Meanwhile, the UMA Member Bus Operations Site Visit is scheduled from 12:15 to 1:45 p.m. at the nearby Southeastern Stages, Inc., facility.

Wednesday will conclude with the “Tourism Rocks At Hard Rock Cafe Atlanta” event from 9:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. All motorcoach operators who attended UMA Motorcoach Expo are invited to attend this event free as guests of the sponsors.

Visit www.motorcoachexpo.com for more information.

Dates, times and events are subject to change.

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Complete Coach Installing Diesel Particulate Filters For EPLA Buses Complete Coach Works (CCW) is in the process of completing the installation of Diesel Particulate Filters (DPF’s) on 20 coach buses for El Paso-Los Angeles Limousine Express, Inc. (EPLA).

“The project ensures that coaches operated by EPLA meet particulate emission standards for diesel-powered vehicles set by various regulatory agencies. Several days of data logging on each engine are performed to obtain crucial information about the vehicle's exhaust system,” according to CCW.

“The data logger, which is temporarily installed on each vehicle, documents exhaust temperatures during normal engine operation. Exhaust temperatures, which can be influenced by vehicle speed, load, idling, ambient air temperatures and driver tendencies, can impact the operation of the proper filter.”

“After data logging, each engine undergoes an assessment for flaws such as oil leaks, heavy smoke and exhaust leaks.

“The assessment is then preceded by the installation of the DPF, which is a three-day process. Every EPLA coach receives the same type of passive filter, which can be removed, cleaned and replaced while the coaches are in the shop for routine maintenance.”

Complete Coach Works is a U.S. bus remanufacturing and rehabilitation company with over 28 years of service in the transportation industry.

El Paso-Los Angeles Limousine Express, Inc. was established in 1966 to provide transportation between Los Angeles and El Paso with few stops. It has expanded to more than 20 bus terminals in six states, with main terminals in El Paso, Albuquerque, Denver, Phoenix, Las Vegas and Los Angeles. The company also offers shipping and charter services to schools, government agencies and professional sports teams.

E-mail ccasas@completecoach.com for more information.

MCC Acquires Climatic Technologies International Ltd. Mobile Climate Control China (MCC) has acquired the assets of Climatic Technologies International Ltd (CTIL) from TRACS Pty., an Australian distributor of HVAC products.

CTIL is a Hong Kong-based provider of HVAC products to bus builders in mainland China.

“The acquisition of CTIL’s assets greatly enhances MCC’s offer of HVAC products to bus builders in China, as well as complementing MCC’s current bus AC product portfolio. MCC will continue supporting all of CTIL’s customers, and we are looking forward to enhancing the strong relationships established by CTIL,” said Clas Gunneberg, president and CEO of MCC Group.

Mobile Climate Control (MCC) offers complete climate comfort systems for three main customer segments: buses, off-road and defense vehicles.

Visit www.mcc-hvac.com for more information.

See us at UMA Expo Booth #928 January/February 2016

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PERSONNEL From Nova Bus:

John Manzi Named Regional Sales Manager For The U.S. East Coast Nova Bus has named John Manzi regional sales manager for the East Coast. Prior to joining Nova Bus, Manzi served as Eastern Regional transit sales manager for a transmission manufacturer. He has over 30 years of experience in the transportation industry.

Rob Mowat leads the team in North America, which includes the United States: Judy K. Dennis for the West, Steve Kratzer for the Midwest, and John Manzi for the East Coast.

Nova Bus offers propulsion technologies such as natural gas and electric buses to American transit authorities.

Nova Bus is part of the Volvo Group.

Visit www.novabus.com for more information.

Motorcoach Marketing Council Names Christian Riddell New Executive Director

Christian Riddell, have been named to fill the position. Riddell has been the spokesman for the council for the past two years.

Riddell started his motorcoach career as a driver and sales manager for a company in Portland, OR. After a decade away from the

Arnold Isham Named Cincinnati Metro’s Director Of Transit Operations Christian Riddell

At its semi-annual meeting in Phoenix on October 29, the Motorcoach Marketing Council announced the hiring of a new executive director. Chinook Holdings, and its principal,

“The Motorcoach Council’s GoMotorcoach program has recently been receiving international attention and has helped hundreds of operators around North America create powerful inexpensive marketing materials, train their sales staff, created powerful social media campaigns, recruit new drivers and market more effectively,” according to the council.

The Motorcoach Marketing Council is a nonprofit organization whose volunteer board members are motorcoach operators and motorcoach associations from around North America.

Its mission is to help operators sell more charters to more people for more money.

Visit www.motorcoachmarketing.org for more information.

industry as the creative director for a West Coast company, he came back to the industry.

In the last five years, he has created several companies that all serve the motorcoach industry, including the development of websites, marketing materials, industry newsletters and more.

Cincinnati Metro has promoted Arnold Isham to the position of director of transit operations, responsible for overseeing the delivery of Metro’s fixed-route services to the community.

Isham has been with Metro for 23 years and began his career as a bus operator. He has held various leadership positions within

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January/February 2016

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Metro including serving as group manager, sector manager, street operations and on-time performance manager, station manager, and most recently as assistant director of transit operations.

Greater Cincinnati.

Visit www.go-metro.com.

SEFAC Names Dustin Sweeney Southeastern Regional Sales Manager

Florida, and he will be working with both existing users of SEFAC mobile lifts and pursuing new customers.

For more information, contact Jamie Pedrick at (443) 730-1023 ext.105.

Greater Dayton (OH) RTA Announces Promotions Of Tony Nicely And Thomas Nichols

SEFAC, Inc., manufacturer of heavy-duty mobile lifts, has named Dustin Sweeney

The Greater Dayton (OH) RTA has announced the recent promotions of Tony Nicely to security supervisor and Thomas

Arnold Isham

He holds certifications in Leadership Development from the Urban League, Xavier University’s Leadership Course, and the Primary Leadership and Development Course with the United States Army.

Metro is a non-profit public service of the Southwest Ohio Regional Transit Authority, providing about 17 million rides per year in

Dustin Sweeney

Southeastern regional sales manager. This is a newly created position within the company.

Sweeney is located in the central region of

Tony Nicely

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PERSONNEL Nichols to p.m. shift supervisor.

Nicely is responsible for overseeing the dayto-day operations of the Wright Stop Plaza transit center. His job is to ensure that “excellent service is delivered to customers every day.”

He will provide leadership to the RTA transit ambassadors in their daily engagement with, and quality service to, RTA customers.

In his previous position as an operations supervisor, Nicely received the 2014 RTA Supervisor Safety Award.

Thomas Nichols

Nichols has been promoted to p.m. shift supervisor. As one of three in that role, he manages all aspects of revenue operation on the

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Mobile Climate Control Opens Microchannel Aluminum Coil Manufacturing Facility In North America “Mobile Climate Control (MCC) has invested more than $3.5 million in new state-of-theart production capabilities to be able to deliver its own in-house designed and manufactured microchannel aluminum heat exchangers.

“This investment in Mississauga (Toronto), Ontario in Canada brings manufacturing and jobs back to North America from Asia. The investment is also a strategic move that strengthens our vertical integration. It also shows our owner’s dedication to, and trust in MCC,” said Clas Gunneberg, CEO of MCC Group.

The company said this investment allows MCC to take control of another component of the HVAC system.

Mobile Climate Control (MCC) offers climate comfort systems for three customer segments: buses, off-road and defense vehicles.

Visit www.mcc-hvac.com for more information

evening shift. He leads all supervisors and bus operators within the framework of RTA’s core values. His focus is safety, quality of service, and on-time performance.

Nichols has been with RTA nearly five years.

He began his career as a Project Mobility driver, became a fixed route driver, and was then promoted to operations supervisor. RTA serves

January/February 2016

3,300 stops on 31 routes throughout Montgomery and parts of Greene County. The agency operates diesel, hybrid diesel, and electric trolley buses that take people to work, school and shopping. Customers ride RTA on more than 9 million passenger trips each year.

Visit www.i-riderta.org for more information.

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Oklahoma State University’s Big Orange Bus Service Has Three New MCI D4500 Coaches Powered By CNG staff and the public between the university’s Stillwater and Tulsa campuses.

“It’s a big milestone: We're the first in the state to have a bus fleet that is completely CNG,” said Tom Duncan, Oklahoma State University transit services manager, crediting BOB service with increases in employment, educational opportunities and attendance at OSU’s Tulsa campus. “The majority of ridership is tied to the university, but residents and travelers to the area find the Oklahoma State University Transit Services Manager Tom Duncan with one service convenient of three new MCI D4500 coaches powered by CNG. because we connect equipped with wheelchair lifts and Wi-Fi, will with Greyhound and Tulsa International serve the University’s Big Orange Bus (BOB) Airport. And the free Wi-Fi allows riders to take transit system, which shuttles students, faculty, care of business while they commute .

Oklahoma State University (OSU) has switched its bus fleet to compressed natural gas.

Its three new CNG MCI D4500 coaches,

MCI said that passengers especially like the model’s forward-facing seating, reading lights, airflow controls, 110-volt outlets, Wi-Fi connectivity and three-point passenger seatbelts.

The Big Orange Bus travels a 71-mile route between Stillwater and Tulsa Monday through Friday. The system is self-sustaining through bus fares and state and federal funds.

OSU has a Ride System smartphone app that displays bus routes and real-time locations, along with estimated arrival times at each stop.

The university uses Twitter to announce delays and route changes, texting information related to passengers’ stops.

All together, OSU operates 24 CNG vehicles on a system that includes fixed route, shuttle and paratransit service.

Visit www.osu-tulsa.okstate.edu/bob for more information.

Motor Coach Industries (MCI), headquartered in Des Plaines, IL, is an intercity coach manufacturer in the United States and Canada, with sales, service and repair facilities in both countries. MCI is also the distributor of the Setra S 417, Setra S 407 and Setra parts in the U.S. and Canada. The company offers 24-hour technical support and technician training along with aftermarket parts and repair service.

January/February 2016

Visit www.mcicoach.com for more information.

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HART And St. Petersburg College Team-Up For Green Initiative In The Tampa Bay Area The HART Environmental and Sustainability Management Program (ESMS) has created a new partnership with students at St. Petersburg College’s (SPC) College of Business.

“As part of their final course work before graduation, college seniors enrolled in the Sustainability Management Degree curriculum must complete a 16-week sustainability improvement project. HART invites those students to apply the theories and concepts they've

learned to real-world environmental initiatives at HART. In turn, HART will use data generated from those studies to continue growing its sustainability culture implementing additional green initiatives,” said HART CFO Jeff Seward.

“We take pride in the authority's ability to foster more sustainable lifestyles and help commuters reduce their carbon footprint. We hope this partnership will increase the ability to recycle, and educate our customers on the environ-

mental advantages of being green. It is also a great example of collaboration for the betterment of the Tampa Bay area and surrounding communities.”

Cooperative work has begun and a project team is analyzing the impact of implementing a solid waste recycling program to serve HART personnel and passengers. HART environmental staff and SPC students are developing ways to decrease solid waste management costs; quantify how much waste is disposed of by passengers at HART facilities around Hillsborough County; improve resource optimization; and enhance core services.

“The waste reduction initiative is also the first Design For Six Sigma HART project. Using Lean Six Sigma techniques and tools, the project team is designing a solution to address the large amounts of solid waste that HART either directly produces or is responsible for managing.

“The goal of these studies is to increase the amount of recycled materials captured from HART waste streams and diverted away from landfills by as much as 10 percent, which will translate to solid waste management cost reductions and greater operational efficiency at HART.” Visit www.goHART.org.

Southern California Transit Training Consortium Receives Achievements In Transit Award

Your one stop shop for coach, rail, and ship interiors.

Upholstery, New & Used passenger & Drivers seats, flooring, floor structural, foam, gas struts and upholstery cleaning machines.

Dealers for Isringhausin and National Seats, we have a full stock of seats and parts for both brands. We also have parts for American, Amaya, Vanhool and Wakefield seats.

If we don't have it, we can get it.

Over 40 years of service to the motorcoach industry, all seat covers guaranteed for 4 years or 400,000 miles.

Any questions about your seats or other needs, please call 425-432-9867 or visit us at www.willinghaminc.com.

See us at UMA Expo Booth #940 Page 44

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January/February 2016

The Southern California Transit Training Consortium (SCRTTC) was awarded the National Transit Institute’s (NTI) Achievements in Transit Training Model Program Award for its National Innovative Transit Training Learning Model.

“SCRTTC was conceived over a decade ago by a grassroots effort of transits in Southern California that were mandated by the South Coast Air Quality Management District to be the first in the country to procure, maintain, operate and repair low/zero emission buses,” SCRTTC Chair Tommy Edwards of Sunline Transit said upon receipt of the award.

The SCRTTC has delivered over 65,000 hours of transit training to over 4,500 participants to date.

Originally funded under SAFETEA-LU enabling the development of its foundational courses, the SCRTTC also pursued supplemental funding as a non-profit to provide hybrid and electric transit bus training.

SCRTTC also recently completed a Federal Transit Administration’s (FTA) Innovative Transit Workforce Development (ITWD) Program; an award specific to training that enabled the development and the delivery of a Distance Education Technician Program.

Visit wwwscrttc.com for more information.

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Van Hool Deliveries

9 Van Hool TX45s For Hotard Coaches

8 New Van Hools For TX’s Roadrunner Company “I've loved coaches as long as I can remember and drove my first bus at 12 years old. I grew up singing and traveling all over America with my family riding in motorcoaches,” said Ron Wills, CEO of Euless, TX-based Roadrunner Companies.

The companies’ eight new Van Hool CX45s are equipped with wood grain flooring, aluminum wheels and Van Hool’s contoured parcel racks, including a video system with 22-inch monitors.

Roadrunner Companies (www.roadrunnercompanies.com) serves the Dallas/Ft. Worth market with 88 buses, offering charters to destinations throughout the United States and Canada. The company began with a single small bus in 2001.

“Ron Wills and the Roadrunner family continue to be market leaders in our industry,” ABC Account Manager Zane Gray said. “They're long-term thinkers and have been extremely successful in managing their acquisitions and growth. All of us at ABC are extremely grateful for their loyalty and our strategic partnership.”

Callen Hotard, president of New Orleans, LA-based Hotard Coaches, represents the third generation of Hotards to run the company since it was founded in 1935. Specializing in charters and contract transportation services, its fleet has grown to 78 coaches and 10 mini-coaches.

ABC Companies, Van Hool's exclusive U.S. distributor, recently delivered nine Van Hool TX45 luxury motorcoaches equipped with entertainment systems, wood grain floors and leather accented passenger seating.

The coaches are equipped with Van Hool safety features including three-point seatbelts, backup camera, lane departure warning, antilock brakes, tire pressure monitoring, fire suppression systems and automatic stability control. Hotard has seven additional TXs on order.

Call 800-222-2875 or visit www.abc-companies.com for more information.

See us at UMA Expo Booth #714 January/February 2016

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Camira Group Hosts Royal Visit For Queen’s Award Presentation “UK-based global textile company, Camira Group Ltd., welcomed HRH The Duke of Gloucester and Her Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of West Yorkshire Dr. Ingrid Roscoe to its Mirfield headquarters in West Yorkshire, December 2, for the presentation of The Queen’s Award for Enterprise: Sustainable Dev elopment Category 2015,” acording to a press release from Camira Group.

“Following the announcement earlier this year, Camira hosted The Duke and Lord-Lieutenant for a site tour and presentation of the award to Camira’s Director of Design Dr. Fern Kelly. With five years of continuous environmental advancement and best in class performance, this is the second time Camira has been awarded The Queen’s Award for Enterprise: Sustainable Development,” said Camira Chief Executive Grant Russell Camira, with headquarters in Mirfield, UK, and 400,000-square-feet of manufacturing at its three sites Pictured, left to right, are Camira Chief Executive Grant Russell, in Huddersfield, has been recognized for its outstandHRH The Duke of Gloucester, Camira Director of Design Fern Kelly, and ing achievements in sustainable product design, supply Her Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of West Yorkshire Dr. Ingrid Roscoe. chain initiatives, waste saving and recycling, people development and corporate social responsibility. This is the com- fabrics for commercial interiors and public transport, supplying the pany’s fourth Queen’s Award, following previous awards in both London Underground, high street banks, and tech firms such as Google, Microsoft, Facebook and LinkedIn. the Innovation and International Trade categories.

Visit www.camirafabrics.com The Camira Group manufactures over 8 million meters of fabfor more information. ric a year and sells to 70 countries worldwide. Camira Group offers

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American Seating Introduces INSIGHT-PRIMEâ&#x201E;˘ And INSIGHT-PRIME+â&#x201E;˘ Transit Seating New from American Seating are its INSIGHT-PRIMEâ&#x201E;˘ and INSIGHTPRIME+â&#x201E;˘ transit seating.

The new products were introduced at the American Public Transportation Association (APTA) annual meeting in San Francisco.

They join the InSight line which was launched in 2006. The INSIGHTPRIME and INSIGHT-PRIME+ seats are engineered to be lighter in weight.

The seats were also designed for cleanability and aesthetics, according to the company. â&#x20AC;&#x153;INSIGHT-PRIME is the primary element of InSight â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a new solution without fabric inserts, back panels and associated hardware, yielding a weight savings of more than 25 percent compared to the typical two-pass transverse seat. â&#x20AC;&#x153;INSIGHT-PRIME+ adds color inserts for an aesthetic value while offering cleanability, weight and cost advantages. INSIGHT-PRIME and INSIGHT-PRIME+ are available in all the same configurations as InSight, including transverse, longitudinal, flip-ups, rear cross and backto-back,â&#x20AC;? according to a press release. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Transit authorities need new ways to make vehicles weigh less so they can achieve greater fuel efficiency. At the same time, they want a clean,

sanitary and modern aesthetic. Plus, theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re looking for cost-effectiveness. With this new generation of InSight, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re meeting these needs and more,â&#x20AC;? said Doug Oswald, director of marketing for transportation at American Seating. â&#x20AC;&#x153;All features and options have been maintained with the new design, including comfort and durability.â&#x20AC;?

The INSIGHT-PRIME texture pattern provides a two-tone look without an insert. INSIGHT-PRIME+ offers an insert that allows for two-color selections. Both productsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; 18-inch-wide seats do not require an added back panel. The 17-inch-wide seat has the same insert shapes as the 18-inch-wide seat, while maintaining design continuity throughout the vehicle.

InSight received the iF (International Forum) award for design in 2010.

Chicagoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s major transit authorities were the first to purchase InSight.

Since then, Baltimore, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Grand Rapids, Miami, Minneapolis, San Diego, Washington, D.C., Victoria, British Columbia, and others have also installed the seats. Canadaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s SkyTrain selected InSight for the 2010 Olympics.

Visit www.americanseating.com for more information.

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ARBOC Breaks Ground On New Lamination Facility ARBOC Specialty Vehicles, of Middlebury, IN, has broken ground on a 14,000-square-foot building to house its lamination process.

“This addition will enable us to streamline our current production process and provide flexibility for future multiple product offerings in our current production environment,” ARBOC Specialty Vehicles President/CEO Don Roberts said.

Founded in 2008, ARBOC Specialty Vehicles develops and manufactures low-floor technology up to 30-feet.

Its three key product offerings are: the Spirit of Mobility, Spirit of Freedom and Spirit of Liberty. ARBOC paratransit products meet and exceed 2014-2018 federal fuel economy standards.

The ARBOC management team pictured breaking ground on the company’s new addition is, left to right, Don Roberts, Mike Skibbe, Blain Hite, Robb Ledbetter, Del Herr and Bill Fay. Pictured is a rendering of the completed addition behind ARBOC’s current production facility.

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Visit www.ARBOCsv.com for more information.

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From Angeltrax:

500GB Solid-State Hard Drives Standard In All Hard Drive DVRs AngelTrax has announced an across-the-board switch to 500GB solid-state hard drives in all AngelTrax hard drive DVRs, backing the SSDs with a 10-year full replacement warranty.

AngelTrax President and CEO Richie Howard said, “Effective immediately, the Hybrid Quest, Hybrid Vault and HDX mobile DVRs will now ship standard with 500GB solid-state hard drives. The CoPilot-WA and SDX DVRs feature solid-state SD cards, which now include capacities up to 256GB each.

“We strive to supply our customers with the latest and most reliable technology. That focus has led us to solid-state storage, for its dependability and efficiency, as a logical advancement in the mobile surveillance marketplace.”

AngelTrax solid-state hard drives are available in 256GB, 500GB and 1TB capacities for upgrades on existing DVRs and can be installed quickly.

AngelTrax is a designer, manufacturer and provider of in-vehicle mobile surveillance for the student transit, mass transit, waste management, law enforcement and rail industries.

Call 1-800-673-1788 or visit www.angeltrax.com for more information.

Home of the Best Full-Service Travel Plaza in Northern Illinois Featuring…

Seating for 175, Homestyle Cooking, Daily Specials, Buffet, Soup & Salad Bar, Full Menu, Carry-Out

(815) 562-5840

Seating for 40, Specialty Sandwiches, Stromboli, Fresh Salads & Pizza, Hand-Dipped Ice Cream!

(815) 561-9595

Designated Bus Parking and Pull-Thru Fueling Island

Bus Drivers & Tour Guides Eat free!

Mini-Mall — 2 Stores with over 5,000 sq. ft. of shopping!

ATM, Major Credit Cards accepted.

I-39 & Hwy 38, Exit 99 Rochelle, IL

OPEN 24 HOURS

Please call ahead!

January/February 2016

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ADVERTORIAL

Hometown Trolleyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Villager Now Electrified The popular Villager model is now electrified. Innovation is on the rise again with the Hometown Trolley research and development team.

Hometown Trolley made a commitment many years ago to contribute to efforts to reduce fossil fuels polluting the environment through transportation.

It is estimated that there are over eight million fossil fueled buses and trucks operating in America today. These vehicles are producing outrageous levels of dangerous toxic pollutants. It is estimated that a single fossil fueled bus emits .75 # of carbon dioxide for every mile it is driven. Choosing an electric Villager will drastically reduce these numbers.

In 2002 the Villager model was equipped with the first generation hybrid electric system and Altoona Tested for a 10 year STURAA test. Since that time Hometown Trolley has continued to develop and improve the system with the latest technology. American made products have been top priority to the development of the Hometown Trolley electric propulsion system to ensure readily available parts.

In 2012 Hometown Trolley developed a series hybrid electric system for the low floor Streetcar trolley which has proven well during testing at the Chattanooga Advanced Vehicle Test Track and in the field. Hometown Trolley has now developed a third generation full electric system for the Villager trolley. The Villager model is the most versatile trolley for transit

TRANSPORTATION

applications including tour, shuttle or transit and it is now available in a full electric zero emissions chassis platform.

With todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s environmental concerns communities are eager to participate in reducing their carbon foot print. The Villager trolley available in full electric zero emission propulsion system offers the operators a choice to provide a clean, quiet form of fun transportation and increase ridership at the same time.

Some of the benefits of going with a full electric Villager trolley are the elimination of the engine and transmission, providing reduced maintenance costs and moving part failures. The electric Villager uses regenerative braking, eliminating maintenance on brake parts and providing system recharging while in route. Fuel costs savings can be up to $400,000 over the life of the trolley. Operating range on a single charge is 100-120 miles, with a recharge time of four hours using the facility charger. When upfitted with an in route induction charging system, range is unlimited.

The Electric Villager = *Quiet *Clean *Economical Hometown Trolley is a Certified DBE, Certified TVM, 3rd generation family owned and operated manufacturing company. Hometown Trolley remains committed to preserving the handcrafted quality of a turn of the century transportation trolley while implementing the latest green technology.

Visit www.hometowntrolley.com for more information.

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0116Busline.FINAL_Layout 1 1/18/16 9:15 AM Page 51

FMCSA Releases Additional Analysis On Alternatives For Safety Measurement System The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has released a Congressionally directed report confirming that the amount of data used in the agencyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Safety Measurement System (SMS) is sufficient to allow FMCSA to identify high-risk truck and bus companies. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The report found that SMS effectively identifies the truck and bus companies involved in 90 percent of the more than 100,000 crashes that occur each year, and those that are identified as high-risk carriers continue to have crash rates that are twice the national average.â&#x20AC;?

In examining commercial motor vehicle crash rates, FMCSA looked at carriers of various sizes in accordance with the congressional directive. The analysis revealed no significant difference in actual crash rates between small carriers and those with 20 or more roadside inspections.

FMCSAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s examinations further determined that the category of carriers with 11-20 inspections and patterns of non-compliance has the highest crash rates, presenting a clear and immediate intervention opportunity for the agency to proactively bring these carriers into compliance with important safety regulations, including: hours-ofservice limitations designed to prevent fatigued driving; vehicle maintenance, and; commercial driverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s license (CDL) requirements.

FMCSAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s current SMS data sufficiency standards allow the agency to effectively identify and proactively intervene with high-risk carriers before a crash involving a large truck or bus occurs.

In March, the Government Accountability Office (GAO) recommended that the agency increase the minimum number of required roadside safety inspections needed before prioritizing truck and bus companies for interventions. FMCSA disagreed, pointing out that a delay in responding to known non-compliant carriers would needlessly jeopardize the safety of the motoring public.

Under current Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs), a carrierâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s safety fitness can only be assigned following an on-site investigation; SMS is a tool to prioritize high-risk truck and bus companies for enforcement interventions.

The recent report underscores the critical importance of consider-

ing carriers of all sizes in the agencyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s continuing efforts to remove unsafe carriers and commercial drivers from the nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s roadways and protecting travelers everywhere.

For a copy of the report, see: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/newsroom/limitations-and-uses-safetymeasurement-system-data-assessing-motor-carrier-safety.

TRANSIT SENIOR EXECUTIVE PROGRAM: Moving Transit Leaders Forward Become a better transportation leader today.

Enroll in this leadership development program designed ZWLJPĂ&#x201E;JHSS` MVY [OL [VW [YHUZP[ L_LJ\[P]LZ PU [OL PUK\Z[Y`.

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Cincinnati Metro Announces Plans For 2016 Cincinnati Metro has announced plans to build a new Oakley transit center in 2016; it also plans the introduction of new small buses, and mobile ticketing.

During the 2015 State of Metro annual meeting, Metro announced ways that, â&#x20AC;&#x153;it is reinventing transit in the community,â&#x20AC;? including the new construction and other improvements beginning in 2016, according to a release.

The Oakley Transit Center will break ground in 2016. It will serve several eastside routes and offer customer amenities like real-time information and a ticket vending machine Metro also plans to offer new smaller buses for more efficient operations on low-ridership routes that donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t require a 40-foot bus, but that still need lifeline transit service. It will also add new commuter-style buses for longer routes serving suburban park and rides.

For more information about Metroâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s plans for 2016, visit www.go-meto.com.

See us at UMA Expo Booth #831 January/February 2016

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Amaya-Astron Seating See Ad On Page 18 Pirules 16E, Complejo Industrial Cuamatla Cuautitlรกn Izcalli, 52786 MEXICO +52(55)5881-2007 E-Mail: donovan@amaya-astron.com.mx Website: www.amaya-astron.com.mx Company Officers: Donovan Albarran, Export Sales Director; Rosario Arellano, Sales and Customer Service Products: The Amaya-Astron Seating models: A-2TEN, TORINO G PLUS and the new GT seat, provide the latest in ergonomic technology and

passenger safety, fulfilling the FMVSS and CMVSS standards for 3-point seatbelt seats.

Amaya-Astron seats focus on ergonomic design, allowing for more hip to knee room and thus more legroom overall. The introduction of the newest model, the GT, will increase this legroom because of its thinner seat back design while maintaining comfort in the seat. The goal is to continually develop seats which use the highest quality materials and latest and most innovative technological advances available today.

As North American leaders in the seating

See us at UMA Expo Booth #813 Page 52

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industry building and equipping motorcoaches, Amaya-Astron seats also have a large list of options and accessories available to meet and exceed customer expectations and requirements.

The most common of these are the automatic footrests, grab handles, airline style and flip-up tray tables, cup holders, mesh magazine pockets, and 110V outlets. Amaya-Astron also offers luxury seating options, such as the 2 plus 1 seats.

For sales and service inquires in the United States and Canada, contact George Farrell, email: gfarr007@aol.com; or Bob Greene, email: bgreene45@cox.net. 16

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American Seating 401 American Seating Center Grand Rapids, MI 49504 USA 616-732-6600 Website: www.americanseating.com Products: American Seating has a long history of researching, designing, and manufacturing products that meet the ever changing needs of customers. The company manufactures passenger seating for city service bus, rail, motorcoach and mobility aid securement. These products are on the road and rail each day in every major North American city. 15 Bergen Auto Upholstery Co., Inc. See Ad On Page 54 375 North Street Secaucus, NJ 07094 USA 201-457-9100 FAX: 201-457-9103 E-Mail: bergenauto@aol.com Website: www.bergenseat.com Products: Seat replacement and complete interior refurbishing, including seat covers, ceilings, sidewalls, lav area, under racks, dash, entrance door. Parts distributor with large inventory in stock.

Bergen offers a complete cleaning service, seat cover shampooing, seat frame cleaning, cleaning of sidewalls and A/C ducts, and shampooing of any carpeted surface. Bergen road crew is available to install on location. 14 Camira See Ad On Page 54 2476 Waldorf Court, NW Grand Rapids, MI 49544 USA 616-288-0655 FAX: 616-288-0656 E-Mail: camira-usa@camirafabrics.com Website: www.camirafabrics.com Company Officers: Steve Bullas, Chairman; Grant Russell, Chief Executive; Andrew Schofield, Group Sales and Marketing Director; Nick Brown, Finance Director; Rune Akselberg, President, Camira Group Inc. Products: Camira, formerly known as Holdsworth Fabrics, offers total fabric solutions for passenger transport interiors. Known for its traditional plush wool moquettes, Camira’s manufacturing expertise also covers lighter weight pile fabrics with added design and texture, contemporary flat weave fabrics for seating and a wide range of ancillary interior trim fabrics for other surfaces within motorcoaches.

Fusion is Camira’s newest high wool content moquette fabric with a strong environmental profile. Being 10 percent lighter in weight compared with traditional pile fabrics, Fusion saves on raw materials giving fuel savings potential and reducing operating costs, without compromising technical performance.

Comprising a variety of designs, the range offers a mixed palette of subtle trend colors and traditional brights - a total of 36 options are available.

Camira are represented by Wagner & Associates (tel 919-552-4466) and BusTex Corp (tel 303-404-0890). 16 Chestnut Ridge Foam, Inc. 443 Warehouse Drive, P.O. Box 781 Latrobe, PA 15650-0781 USA 724-537-9000 FAX: 724-537-9003 E-Mail: info@chestnutridgefoam.com Website: www.chestnutridgefoam.com Company Officers: Carl Ogburn, President; George Romanish, Vice President, OPS; Robert

Bologna, CFO; Anthony Tomasello, Sales Manager Products: SAFGUARD XL fire-resistant seat cushioning to comply with F.T.A. fire safety criteria. SAFGUARD XL eliminates the profuse burning and known fire hazards associated with FMVSS 302 cushioning if exposed to open flame ignition sources. Provides the fire performance needed in today’s environment. The use of F.T.A. fire performance criteria helps avoid the potential for individual and transit authority liability. This fire-resistant cushioning is available to all seating manufacturers for O.E.M. vehicles. SAFGUARD XL represents major advancements in seat cushioning durability and comfort.

See us at UMA Expo Booth #1021 January/February 2016

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Visit www.chestnutridgefoam.com to view the fire performance capabilities in action with a comparative testing video of completed bus seats exposed to flame. This video is also available in DVD format for an educational tool demonstrating the danger of how fire may impact bus interiors. CR SAFGUARD XL can easily be added to new vehicle seating specifications. Contact Chestnut Ridge Foam for condensed specification verbiage. 16 CMI Enterprises 13145 NW 45th Ave., Miami, FL 33054 USA 574-226-2977 Website: www.cmi-enterprises.com Products: Bus/coach upholstery, fabric. 14 De Leo Transportation Fabrics See Ad On Page 52 53 Dwight Place, Fairfield, NJ 07004 USA 973-439-6801 FAX: 973-439-6815 E-Mail: iarslan@deleoco.com Website: www.deleotf.com Company Officers: Ismail Arslan Products: De Leo Transportation Fabrics, a division of the Edward B. De Leo Company, Inc., was established in 1962, and continues to deliver services and products to the automotive, transportation and upholstered furniture manufacturing industries. Working with producer

partner Epengle Tekstil, DLT offers high quality velvets for bus, motorcoach and light rail fabrics to public and private transportation industries.

For 50-plus years, De Leo and Epengle have provided a variety of pile compositions including 85/15, 30/70 wool blend, 100 percent Polyester, 100 percent Acrylic and 100 percent polyester flat woven to meet the highest standards of the transportation industry. All qualities meet the International FR requirements as well as FMVUSS-302. Specialty and custom design work can be accommodated and antibacterial, stain repellant and water proofing finishes are available.

The company offers short production lead times, excellent New Jersey-based customer service and on-time deliveries. Warehousing in South Carolina offers quick shipping and easy logistics. These fabrics will be featured at The UMA Expo in Atlanta January 31 - February 4, 2016. 16 Fabric Services 103 Hinsdale Farms Road, Bristol, IN 46507 USA 574-848-5100 FAX: 574-848-1776 Website: www.fabserv.com Products: Fabric Services is a provider of many fabrics, leather, coated fabrics and flatwoven textiles for shuttle bus and motorcoach seating as well as interior trim applications.

Other value-added services include custom cutting and lamination. 13 Freedman Seating Company 4545 W. Augusta Blvd., Chicago, IL 60651 USA 773-524-2440 Website: www.freedmanseating.com Products: Manufactures seats and seating related products for many different applications.

Product lines include bus, rail, marine, delivery truck, specialty and commercial vehicle seating.

A leading supplier to the U.S. domestic bus and transportation industry. Manufacturing seats for buses, Freedman Seating supplies the major OEMs, over 250 bus distributors, the federal government, and many states and municipalities. Includes products for small and mid-size coaches, paratransit vans and buses, public transit buses, and private bus operators. 15 LaFrance Industries See Ad On Page 53 290 Old Anderson Road, LaFrance, SC 29656 USA 864-646-3213, 551-482-1608 FAX: 864-646-4235 E-Mail: interiors@jeffgoldwasser.com Company Officers: Judson Boehmer, President; Jeff Goldwasser, Sales Executive Products: U.S. made seating fabrics for all transit and motorcoach requirements. 16

Fusion by Camira.

Lightweight, versatile and contemporary.

If Your Seats Are Not Becoming To You, They Should Be Coming To

BERGEN AUTO UPHOLSTERY

Come and visit us at the UMA Motorcoach EXPO, booth 948 for an exclusive look at Fusion, our new high wool content moquette fabric.

www.camirafabrics.com

Â&#x2021; Quality Workmanship

Â&#x2021; Large Selection of Fabric

Â&#x2021; On Time Delivery

Â&#x2021; A Guaranteed Fit Â&#x2021; Unsurpassed Customer Service 0UZ[HSSH[PVUZ°HrL°H[°V\Y°MHJPSP[`°PU°TeterborV °51°VY° BerNLU Z°9VHK°*rL^°^PSS°PUZ[HSS°H[°`V\Y°SVJH[PVU Call, fax or e-mail us today for a quick quote, and see for yourself why Bergen Auto Upholstery is your seating headquarters.

Bergen Auto Upholstery Co., Inc. 375 North Street, Suite U, Teterboro, NJ 07608 Toll Free: 800-732-8750 Phone: (201) 457-9100 Fax: (201)457-9103 e-mail: bergenauto@aol.com website: www.bergenseat.com See us at UMA Expo Booth #948 Page 54

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January/February 2016 Busline advert DEC 2015_.indd 1

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Lantal Textiles, Inc. P.O. Box 965, Rural Hall, NC 27045 USA 905-823-9427 Website: www.lantal.com Products: Lantal Textiles is a Swiss company specializing in the weaving of high-quality, well-designed velvet pile fabrics for the bus industry. Though Lantal has been in business in Europe for over 69 years, the company first introduced these velvet pile fabrics to North America in 1997. Lantal is a supplier of upholstery and companion fabrics to bus and seating manufacturers. 11 Lazzerini Corporation See Ad On Page 55 1011 Herman St., Elkhart, IN 46516 USA E-Mail: info@lazzerini.us Web Site: www.lazzerini.us Products: Founded in 1967, the company produces seating for transit buses and motorcoaches. Based in Italy with a U.S. office. 15

425-432-9867 FAX: 425-432-3668 Website: www.willinghaminc.com Products: Seatcovers, complete interiors, floors, step tread kits, parcel rack door and bay door pistons, foam rubber replacement kits, net pockets, cup holders, grab handles and accessories. Seat parts for all models. 12

Your Ideal Traveling Companion Since 1967 the name Lazzerini has been synonymous with creativity and innovation in the design and production of high quality light weight seating for transit bus and motorcoach.

National Seating Co./CVG 200 National Dr., Vonore, TN 37885 USA 800-222-7328 FAX: 423-884-4859 Website: www.cvgrp.com Products: Motorcoach driver and passenger seats, including 4210 passenger seats that feature the comfort and durability long associated with National Seating with the added safety of 3-point seat belts. All products are produced in the company’s Vonore, TN, facility. 13 RECARO North America 4120 Luella Lane, Auburn Hills, MI 48326 USA 248-484-3203 FAX: 248-364-3806 Website: www.recaro-automotive.com Products: RECARO has been manufacturing seating products for over 100 years. RECARO manufactures ergonomically correct seating that will support customers through the hours of operation they perform.

RECARO products are designed to optimize comfort and reduce fatigue by offering superb support. 15

“BUY AMERICA” COMPLIANT

Lazzerini Corporation | 1011 Herman St. - 46516 Elkhart, IN

Sardo Bus & Coach Upholstery See Ad On Pages 17 & 55 503 S. Main Avenue, Minneola, FL 34715 USA 800-654-3824 FAX: 352-242-9290 E-Mail: sandy@sardobus.com Website: www.sardobus.com Company Officers: Sandy Follis, President of Sales; Kathy Cruse, National Sales Manager; Lou Sardo, President Products: Sardo Bus & Coach Upholstery’s craftsmanship and customer service have made the company an industry leader in motorcoach and transit refurbishment. It manufactures custom fit seat covers for mail out service. Sardo’s Professional Mobile Road Crew is a trendsetter, providing experienced on-site installation service at a customer’s facility. This minimizes down time, and gives customers personal attention to every detail.

Seat covers, sidewalls, flooring and more, Sardo helps with all interior objectives.

Warranties are offered. 16 Willingham Inc. See Ad On Page 44 20008 244th Ave. S.E., Maple Valley, WA 98038 USA

See us at UMA Expo Booth #1041

See us at UMA Expo Booth #1022 January/February 2016

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ARI-HETRA 12775 Randolph Ridge Lane Manassas, VA 20109 USA 703-359-6265, 800-562-3250 Web Site: www.ari-hetra.com Products: Privately held company offering heavy-duty mobile lifting equipment, exhaust extraction systems and wheel service equipment. 15

Gray Manufacturing Company, Inc. 3501 S. Leonard Rd., St. Joseph, MO 64503 USA 816-233-6121 FAX: 816-233-7251 Web Site: www.grayusa.com Products: Gray Manufacturing is a family-owned and operated company. It designs, manufactures, sells and services innovative, high-quality and reliable professional service equipment for the automotive, truck, and service vehicle industries. Gray offers a complete line of professional service equipment including: mobile column lifts, wheel lift systems, transmission and component jacks, air jacks, floor jacks, vehicle support stands, shop presses, wheel dollies, fluid handlers, forklift jacks, oil filter crushers, and truck tire changers. 09 MAHA USA 2404 East Highway 134, Pinckard, AL 36371 USA 866-624-2872 FAX: 334-983-1094 E-Mail: sales@maha-usa.com Web Site: www.maha-usa.com Products: MAHA USA unites German engineering with American craftsmanship to produce heavy-duty mobile column lifts. MAHA USA manufactures vehicle lifting systems from its 90,000-square-foot production facility in Pinckard, AL. Its wireless mobile column lifts are powered by state-of-the-art ball-screw technology. MAHA USA also offers a full line of heavy-duty workshop equipment consisting of pantograph and parallelogram lifts; wheel lifting systems; various floor, transmission and clutch jacks; wheel service equipment; emission testers and PBBT-certified brake testers. 15

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See us at UMA Expo Booth #432 BUSLINE January/February 2016

Mohawk Lifts See Ad On Page 57 65 Vrooman Ave. \ P.O. Box 110, Amsterdam, NY 12010 USA 800-833-2006 FAX: 518-842-1289 E-Mail: info@mohawklifts.com Web Site: www.mohawklifts.com Company Officers: Steve Perlstein, Sales & Marketing Manager; Ray Pedrick, Assistant Sales Manager Products: Mohawk Lifts manufactures environmentally safe above ground garage lifts ranging from 7,000 to 240,000 pound capacities and many lift accessories. Included in Mohawkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s product lines are two post, four post, mobile column and parallelogram lifts, capable of lifting all

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tour and transit buses. Mohawk’s popularity is based on a combination of safety systems, design, construction, and inclusive warranty. Mohawk Lifts are designed, welded and manufactured in the U.S.A. 16 Omer North America Inc. 2300 Speers Rd. Oakville, Ontario L6L 2X8 CANADA 877-799-5438 FAX: 905-891-1214 Web Site: www.karliftsolutions.com Products: Omer North America offers the KAR LIFT Pantograph lift in capacities of 44,000, 55,000, 66,000, 77,000, 88,000 and 99,000 pounds. The KAR LIFT is available in runway lengths of 23’, 26’, 30’, 33’, 36’, 48.5’ long powder coated or completely hot-dipped galvanized.

All of these models have been ALI/ETL certified.

Omer has built KAR LIFTS up to 57’ long and 121,000 pound capacity. Omer holds several patented design features that include a “Volumetric Control” that eliminates all electronics on the lift, and AOS energy absorbing material that eliminates the need for the lift scissors to have “slide” to eliminate stress. For customers who prefer electronic synchronization, Omer offers a four motor/pump control with industrial inclinometers mounted on each scissor. 13 Rotary Lift 2700 Lanier Drive Madison, IN 47250 USA 800-640-5438 FAX:800-578-5438 E-Mail: userlink@rotarylift.com Web Site: www.rotarylift.com Company Officers: David Fischmer, Marketing Director Products: Rotary Lift is a manufacturer of vehicle lifts designed to increase technician productivity and fleet uptime, with a commitment to quality, testing and safety. Rotary Lift offers a full line of heavy-duty vehicle lifts for servicing the wide range of buses on the road today. The line includes modular inground, mobile column, scissor, parallelogram and fourpost lifts. The new MOD35 is the next generation of Rotary Lift’s MOD Series modular, environmentally friendly heavy-duty inground lift. More than 1,100 MOD Series lifts have been installed since the product’s introduction in 2002. Rotary Lift offers patented universal style lifting saddles.

Rotary Lift’s Mach™ Series of mobile column lifts can be used anywhere to service almost any vehicle. Wired and wireless communications options are available. Rotary Lift is a Vehicle Service Group (VSG) brand. Its American headquarters and flagship manufacturing facilities are in Madison, IN. 16 SEFAC, Inc. See Ad On Page 56 23 Fontana Ln., Suite 109 Baltimore, MD 21237 USA 443-730-1023

E-Mail: allisterc@slec.com Website: www.slec.com Company Officers: Allister Collings, President Products: SLEC, Inc., which began manufacturing its own heavy-duty vehicle lifts last year, has seen significant sales growth in 2015, with volume up 20 percent. The new lift, designated the 18Type, has many new and innovative features. However; one feature which has evolved but never changed is the drive system which comprises a bronze load nut mounted on a threaded screw. The screw and load nut are guaranteed self-locking, meaning the vehicle will always remain in the air as it is only power that can cause the screw to rotate. A self-locking drive screw and load-bearing nut system will also last longer - usually 20 years or more - because it is only wearing when the lift is raising or lowering.

SLEC lifts are certified by the Automotive Lift Institute, to ANSI/ALI ALCTV: 2011 standards. The company employs factory trained service technicians located in the northeast, southeast, southwest, northwest and Baltimore.

The company is committed to providing a high level of after-sales support. It offers annual inspection programs, off-contract inspections and always aims to react quickly to any nonscheduled call-outs. SLEC lifts are made in the USA. 16 Stertil-Koni USA, Inc. 200 Log Canoe Circle Stevensville, MD 21666 USA 410-643-9001 FAX: 410-643-8901 E-Mail: lifts@stertil-koni.com Web Site: www.stertil-koni.com Company Officers: Jean DellAmore, President; Paul Feldman, Director of Marketing Products: Stertil-Koni offers heavy-duty vehicle lifts - notably serving the transit bus and motorcoach industries - and is a supplier to the world’s leading transit agencies and private companies in the bus and truck industries.

Stertil-Koni’s products meet all ranges of lifting needs and include mobile column lifts, two-post FREEDOM LIFTS, four-post, platform lifts, half-scissors and its U.S. and Canadian-patented axle-engaging, in-ground, scissor style ECOLIFT. Of particular interest to transits, Stertil-Koni has recently begun installing the DIAMOND LIFT, a full rise telescopic piston lift designed to set new standards in precision heavy-duty lifting. In addition, the company has recently introduced a “frame” version of this in-ground piston lift ideal for replacement situations with existing concrete pits.

Stertil-Koni has introduced a Reverse Roll-off Protection option for the company’s vertical rise heavy-duty platform vehicle lifting system, SKYLIFT. Stertil-Koni is headquartered in Stevensville, MD, and has recently expanded its U.S. production facilities in Streator, IL. 16 January/February 2016

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Prevost

Prevost

Prevost H3-45

Prevost X3-45

The H Series’ striking style is clean and timeless with flush-mounted, frameless windows that ensure exceptional panoramic views, greater passenger privacy and a reduced strain on the air-conditioning system. In addition, the coach boasts the most luggage space on the market with an impressive amount of underfloor capacity and the highest deck in the Prevost lineup. The dependable Volvo D13 engine has smooth, quiet operation and drastically lowers emission of air pollutants.

For the safety of passengers and drivers alike, Prevost AWARE Adaptive Cruise Braking, the Prevost Electronic Stability Program, and the Prevost Welded Rail System take safety to a new level. In addition, driver controls for key functions are located on the steering wheel, rather than the dashboard, helping to increase safety for all on board.

The Driver Information Display (DID) provides significant advantages to drivers and operators. Important information is easily communicated, offering several valuable tools such as fuel data management, data logging and clear text display messages.

From its distinctive and proud front end to its elegant rear treatment, there is no mistaking any ordinary bus for the Ultimate in Touring Coaches: the Prevost H-Series.

The X3-45 carries on the Prevost tradition of innovation, showcasing advanced technologies. The Prevost Welded Rail System and Prevost Electronic Stability Program take safety to a new level.

Volvo’s D13 engine has smooth, quiet operation and drastically lowers emission of air pollutants. The Volvo D13 with advanced SCR exceeds EPA emissions standards.

The Prevost X3-45 has the longest wheelbase in the touring coach market (334.5 in.), giving passengers a smooth ride, and features the largest under-floor surface area (139 sq. ft.) in the industry. At 134 inches, the Prevost X3-45 has the lowest overall height of all seated coaches, providing easy access to virtually any pick-up or drop-off site.

Equipped with the Prevost Advanced Multiplex System, the Prevost X3-45 delivers dependability and maximizes operational efficiency. The user-friendly system features a multitude of benefits, including easier maintenance, faster troubleshooting and quick and accurate diagnosis of problems with vital components.

Model............................................................................................Prevost H3-45 Seating Capacity.............................................................................................56 Length ...............................................................................................................45’ Width ...............................................................................................................102” Height........................................................................................................146.25” Wheelbase......................................................................................................314” Overhang (front/rear) ......................................................................75” - 107” Inside Height (min./max.)..........................................Floor to Ceiling - 77” Turning Radius ............................................................................................45.6’ Tire Size..........................................................................................315/80 R22.5 Engine................EPA Compliant Volvo D13 w/DPF and SCR, 435 HP, 13L Transmission ..................Allison World, 5th Gen., 6-Speed Auto. Trans.; Volvo I-Shift, 12-Speed Automated Manual Brakes..........................................................All-Wheel Disc Brakes with ABS Fuel Tank Capacity.......................................................................230 U.S. gal.

Air Conditioning..........................................................................Bitzer 4FNCY Baggage Capacity............................................................................580 cu. ft.

Wheelchair Lift Option...............................Interchangeable Swap & Plug Steering ........................................Steering Wheel w/Integrated Controls, Tilt & Telescopic, and Integral Power Steering, Variable Assistance Power Steering Suspension ..........Wide-Stance Tuned Suspension w/Liftable Tag Axle

Model............................................................................................Prevost X3-45 Seating Capacity .............................................................................................55 Length ...............................................................................................................45’ Width ...............................................................................................................102” Height..............................................................................................................134” Wheelbase .................................................................................................334.5” Overhang (front/rear) ...........................................................72.30” - 86.60” Inside Height (min./max.) .........................................Floor to Ceiling - 80” Turning Radius ............................................................................................42.6’ Tire Size..........................................................................................315/80 R22.5 Engine ................EPA Compliant Volvo D13 w/DPF and SCR, 435 HP, 13L Transmission ..................Allison World, 5th Gen., 6-Speed Auto. Trans.; Volvo I-Shift, 12-Speed Automated Manual Brakes..........................................................All-Wheel Disc Brakes with ABS Fuel Tank Capacity ........................................................................192 U.S. gal.

Air Conditioning..........................................................................Bitzer 4FNCY Baggage Capacity .............................................................................513 cu. ft.

Wheelchair Lift Option...............................Interchangeable Swap & Plug Steering ........................................Steering Wheel w/Integrated Controls, Tilt & Telescopic, and Integral Power Steering, Variable Assistance Power Steering Available Suspension ..........Wide-Stance Tuned Suspension w/Liftable Tag Axle

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Prevost 35 Gagnon Blvd., Ste-Claire, Quebec GOR 2VO CANADA Tel: 418-883-3391 Toll-Free: 877-773-8678 Fax: 418-883-4157 Website: www.prevostcar.com

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Prevost

Prevost

Prevost X3-45 Commuter Coach Volvo 9700 The Volvo 9700 is a coach that makes an impression. A modern exterior with characteristic Volvo feel is matched by an elegant interior featuring soft, gentle shapes and well-designed trim.

Exceptional comfort abounds throughout the Volvo 9700.

Electronically controlled air suspension and a rigid frame design make for a confident, reassuring ride. A low interior noise level and comfortable seats also ensure an enjoyable journey, and large tinted windows provide excellent visibility all around.

High-efficiency brakes, electronic stability program, three-point seat belts and Volvo-unique impact protection for the driver and the other road users are just some examples of its safety equipment. With all its service points grouped together logically, the Volvo 9700 is easy to maintain. Highly integrated components – like the D13 engine and I-Shift Transmission – simplify service scheduling and make for convenient “one-stop shopping” when vehicles require maintenance.

The I-Shift is an intelligent transmission system that combines the robustness and dependability of a manual gearbox with the comfort and convenience of an automatic transmission. Its latest generation ensures substantially improved performance and fuel economy. Productivity, efficient design and safety define the Volvo 9700.

Model .................................................................................................Volvo 9700 Seating Capacity.............................................................................................54 Length ...............................................................................................................45’ Width ...............................................................................................................102” Height..............................................................................................................145” Wheelbase ......................................Between front and tag axle - 254.84” Overhang (front/rear) .....................................................................112” - 109” Inside Height (min./max.) .................................Front - 77.2”; Rear - 72.8” Turning Radius..........................................................................................42.83’ Tire Size..........................................................................................315/80 R22.5 Engine ................EPA Compliant Volvo D13 w/DPF and SCR, 435 HP, 13L Transmission.........................Volvo I-Shift, 12-Speed Automated Manual Brakes...............................All-Wheel Disc Brakes w/ABS double circuitry Fuel Tank Capacity........................................................................210 U.S. gal.

Air Conditioning .........................................................Carrier - AC353 GenIV Baggage Capacity................................400 cu. ft. (under-floor capacity) Wheelchair Lift Option .........................................................................Built in Steering .....................Tilt and Telescopic, and Integral Power Steering Suspension ..........Wide-Stance Tuned Suspension w/Liftable Tag Axle

The X3-45 Commuter Coach is designed from the Prevost platform known for durability, reliability, and lifetime value. The coach has been Exova Certified for structural integrity and is BAA compliant. Developed with a focus on transit operation concerns such as passenger safety, accessibility, low operation costs and ease of maintenance, the X3-45 Commuter is the ideal coach for the commuter market.

The Prevost Electronic Stability Program is the first system with rollover and under/over-steer protection and electronically compensates for quick reaction in adverse conditions. The Prevost X345 includes three-point seat belts on a 20G rated welded rail system for an exceptionally secure passenger environment.

Passengers of the X3-45 Commuter immediately notice the large entry area through the bi-part doors with the lowest steps and shortest stairway, making it easier on mobility challenged passengers. Another feature noticed by passengers is the high interior space - a full 80-inches of space from floor to ceiling. Additionally, the commuter can be outfitted with a Wi-Fi system, state-of-the-art sound and video, and electrical outlets at each seat to keep passengers plugged in and in touch while commuting.

Model .........................................................Prevost X3-45 Commuter Coach Seating Capacity .............................................................................................57 Length ...............................................................................................................45’ Width ...............................................................................................................102” Height..............................................................................................................134” Wheelbase .................................................................................................334.5” Overhang (front/rear) .............................................................72.30”; 86.60” Inside Height (min./max.) .........................................Floor to ceiling - 80” Turning Radius ............................................................................................42.6’ Tire Size..........................................................................................315/80 R22.5 Engine.................EPA Compliant Volvo D13 w/DPF and SCR, 435 HP,13L Transmission ....................Allison World, 5th gen., 6-speed auto. trans.

Brakes...........................................................................All-Wheel disc. w/ ABS Fuel Tank Capacity ........................................................................192 U.S. gal.

Air Conditioning..........................................................................Bitzer 4FNCY Baggage Capacity .............................................................................513 cu. ft.

Wheelchair Lift Option...............................Interchangeable swap & plug Steering.........................................Steering wheel w/integrated controls, Tilt & telescopic, and integral power steering, (Variable Assistance Power Steering Available) Suspension.............Wide-stance tuned suspension w/liftable tag axle January/February 2016

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Motor Coach Industries

Motor Coach Industries

MCI® J4500

MCI® D4005 and D4505

The best-selling MCI J4500 offers premium curb appeal, reliability and excellent fuel economy. In addition to its BMW USAdesigned good looks, the J4500 turning radius stands at 41 feet, 9 inches, with the standard passive rear tag - tight enough to maneuver more easily on congested city streets and parking lots.

The model’s best-in-class 16,400-pound payload capacity to improvements like new 150-amp Denso alternators, REI entertainment systems and easier access to electrical components, proves its leadership. A Bendix braking system delivers car-like control, along with the optional Bendix Wingman Advanced, a collision mitigation technology that uses a forward-mounted radar sensor to issue warnings and prompt active driver intervention to help avoid incidents. Options also include 110-volt outlets, USB plugs and Wi-Fi. Operators serving mining and other rugged applications will appreciate MCI’s optional heavy-duty package, with protection against rocks, gravel and road debris. Add in MCI’s investments in service and support, and excellent residual value, and this is a coach that will reward operators with exceptional performance for years to come.

The workhorse. Built to legendary quality standards, MCI 40and 45-foot D-Series coaches offer low cost, high quality performance, while maintaining a high level of passenger comfort. The model recently received many of the improvements made to the MCI J4500, including dual 150-amp Denso alternators, new parcel racks that expand capacity, and the REI A/V system.

The D models also gained new 90-mm headlights, including an LED headlight option. Reliable and value-motivated, the MCI DSeries is North America’s best selling coach.

Model ..................................................................................................MCI J4500 Seating Capacity.............................................................................................56 Length .........................................................................................................45.58’ Height ........................................................................................................140.75” Headroom ..................................................................................................78.25” Turning Radius ...................................................................................40 ft 11 in Wheelbase......................................................................................................315” Floor - Low or standard ...................................................................Standard Engine Options.......................................Cummins ISX 12L, 425 HP engine w/engine brake; optional Detroit Diesel DD 13 also w/engine brake Transmission.......Allison B500 6-speed automatic transmission with prognostics capability Chassis .............................................................................................Monocoque Fuel Tank Capacity ................................................................................183 gal.

Fuel Options ................................................................................................ULSD Brakes....................................................Bendix® ADB22X™ Air Disc Brakes GVWR ..................................................................................................54,000 lbs.

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Motor Coach Industries; 200 East Oakton St., Des Plaines, IL 60018; 847-285-2000; 800-428-7626; Fax: 847-285-2013 • Email: marketing@mcicoach.com; Website: www.mcicoach.com

Model...............................................................................................MCI D-Series Seating Capacity ......................................................................................55; 47 Length.......................................................................................................45’; 40’ Height..............................................................................................................137” Headroom. .................................................................................................78.25” Turning Radius ..................................................................................47’; 44.70’ Wheelbase (s).....................................................................................318”; 279” Floor - Low or Standard...................................................................Standard Engine ............................................................................................Cummins ISX Transmission.................................................................................Allison B500 Chassis .............................................................................................Monocoque Fuel Tank Capacity................................................................................164 gal.

Fuel Options ................................................................................................ULSD Brakes..............................................................Meritor all-wheel EX-225 disc GVWR...........................................................................50,000 lbs.; 46,000 lbs.

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Motor Coach Industries

Motor Coach Industries

Setra S 417 TC MCI® Commuter Coach The MCI Commuter Coach, based on the best-selling D-Series model, is the preferred vehicle on long-distance express routes because of its passenger comfort and safety at higher speeds.

Safety technologies include electronic stability control (which helps secure directional stability), fire suppression systems and three-point passenger seatbelts.

The MCI Commuter Coach offers a highly competitive per-seat price, and workhorse reliability. Increasing fuel economy and helping public transit agencies advance their clean-energy goals also factor into MCI’s engineering. That’s why the MCI Commuter Coach is available in clean-diesel; diesel electric and CNG engine configurations. Options also include 110-volt outlets, USB plugs and Wi-Fi.

With luxury plus personalized design, operators can differentiate their fleet with the Daimler-built Setra S 417, now with more choices including an optional second door; 2-1, reversiblie executive or club-corner lounge seating; premium fabrics; galleys; and the optional TopSky and rear window. The front collision guard, cornering lights and rain/light sensors are just a few of the features contributing to the model’s safety standards.

Motor Coach Industries; 200 East Oakton St., Des Plaines, IL 60018; 847-285-2000; 800-428-7626; Fax: 847-285-2013 • Email: marketing@mcicoach.com; Website: www.mcicoach.com

Motor Coach Industries; 200 East Oakton St., Des Plaines, IL 60018; 847-285-2000; 800-428-7626; Fax: 847-285-2013 • Email: marketing@mcicoach.com; Website: www.mcicoach.com

Model ..............................................MCI® Commuter Coach D4500/D4000 Available in CNG, Hybrid & Clean-Diesel Seating Capacity........................................57 Passengers; 49 Passengers Length.......................................................................................................45’; 40’ Height..............................................................................................................137” Headroom ..................................................................................................78.25” Turning Radius ..................................................................................47’; 44.70’ Wheelbase...........................................................................................318”; 279” Engine Options...................................Cummins ISL (hybrid), ISX or ISX G Transmission ...........................Allison B500, Allison EP 50, Hybrid drive Chassis .............................................................................................Monocoque Fuel Tank Capacity .................................................164 gal. CNG 114.6 (DGE) Diesel Gallon Equivalent Fuel Options..........................................................Clean-diesel, hybrid, CNG Brakes..............................................................Meritor all-wheel EX-225 disc GVWR...........................................................................50,000 lbs.; 46,000 lbs.

Model ...........................................................................................TopClass S 417 Seating Capacity.............................................................................................56 Length ...............................................................................................................45’ Height.................................................................................................................12’ Headroom .......................................................................................................6.6’ Turning Radius ..........................................................................................481.7” Wheelbase.....................................................................................................280” Floor - Low or Standard...................................................................Standard Engine...........................................................Mercedes-Benz OM 471 450 hp Transmission.............................................................................Allison B 500R Chassis .............................................................................Monocoque Integral Fuel Tank Capacity................................................................................180 gal.

Fuel Options................................................................Ultra low sulfur diesel Brakes - Air or Hydraulic.................................................Knorr disc brakes GVWR...................................................................................................50,534 lbs.

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Glaval Bus

Temsa

Glaval Legacy The Legacy is built on the heavy-duty Freightliner S2C chassis and powered by the proven Cummins 6.7L ISB diesel engine and Allison transmission. Built with rear air-ride suspension, the Legacy is sure to impress with stylish beauty, outstanding ride quality and rugged durability.

Whether looking for first-class transportation or even public shuttle service, the Legacy is just the answer. The Legacy can seat up to 45 passengers and is available with a wide variety of ADAcompliant paratransit options. Also available with rear luggage, overhead and under floor storage, the Legacy has the versatility to fit all transportation needs.

Glaval Bus 914 CR #1 North Elkhart, IN 46514 800-445-2825 Website: www.glavalbus.com

Temsa TS 30 The Temsa TS 30 coach is manufactured in Turkey and is distributed in the United States exclusively by CH Bus Sales, LLC. The TS 30 is a fully integral designed mid-size coach that provides the same level of comfort and amenities as a full size coach.

The TS 30 has independent front suspension and automatic transmission, contributing to a smooth, comfortable drive. With an American driveline (Cummins/Allison), the TS 30 provides power and serviceability. These are combined with European quality and craftsmanship to create a high quality driving experience. It is stringently tested to ensure the highest standards.

Despite its compact dimensions, the TS 30 has a tough, integral stainless steel chassis for extra durability and safety. The luxury interior integrates a high quality heating and air conditioning system, abundant luggage space, a restroom and reclining seats.

The TS 30 is appropriate for smaller groups and is more economical to purchase and operate than a larger coach, according to the company. It is fuel efficient and kind to the environment as well as an operator’s finances.

CH Bus Sales, LLC 1645 Lyndale Avenue N., Suite 102, Faribault, MN 55021 Phone: 507-331-7911; Fax: 507-331-1338 Website: www.chbussales.com

Model ............................................................................................Glaval Legacy Seating Capacity ....................................................................................45 Max Length................................................................................32’, 35’, 37’ and 40’ Width...............................................................................................96” and 102” Height..............................................................................................................129” Engine..............................................................................Cummins 6.7L Diesel Transmission ...............................Allison 2200 PTS w/Park Pawl 5-Speed Chassis.....................................................................................Freightliner S2C Air Conditioning ..............................Carrier/Mcc, ACC, Trans Air and ACT Wheelchair Option.................................................Accommodates up to 14 Steering ......................................................................................Tilt/Telescopic Suspension ........................................................Front Spring, Rear Air Ride Page 62

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Model...............................................................................................Temsa TS 30 Seating Capacity .............................Up to 34 passengers with restroom Length .........................................................................................................30.64’ Width...........................................................................................................94.64” Height.......................................................10.89’ (including air conditioner) Engine.........................................................Cummins ISB 6.7 250 HP-EPA 13 Type of Fuel ...............................................................................................Diesel Chassis ......................................Frameless monocoque in stainless steel Air Conditioning ...........................Full auto HVAC system/roof type unit (27 KW cooling, 39 KW heating) Wheelchair Lift Option.................................................................................Yes Steering .............................................................................................................ZF Suspension..............Independent front suspension w/shock absorber

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Temsa

Temsa

Temsa TS 45 Temsa TS 35E The newly enhanced Temsa TS 35E coach is manufactured in Turkey and is distributed in the United States and Canada exclusively by CH Bus Sales, LLC. The TS 35E is a fully integral designed mid-size coach that provides the same level of comfort and amenities as a full size coach. This mid-size coach offers a luxurious and spacious interior for passengers and driver.

With an American driveline (Cummins/Allison), the TS 35E provides power and serviceability. These are combined with European quality and craftsmanship to create a high quality driving experience.

The TS 35E is constructed from stainless steel for extra durability and safety. It is stringently tested to ensure the highest standards. The TS 35E is appropriate for smaller groups, more economical to purchase and operate than a larger coach, but with the same high-end features, according to the company.

CH Bus Sales, LLC 1645 Lyndale Avenue N., Suite 102, Faribault, MN 55021 Phone: 507-331-7911; Fax: 507-331-1338 Website: www.chbussales.com Model.............................................................................................Temsa TS 35E Seating Capacity .............................Up to 40 passengers with restroom Length ...............................................................................................................35’ Width............................................................................................................100.4” Height ..............................................................................................................11.5’ Engine.........................................................Cummins ISL 8.9 345 HP-EPA 16 Type of Fuel ...............................................................................................Diesel Chassis ......................................Frameless monocoque in stainless steel Air Conditioning..................................Full automatic convector system/ Roof type air conditioning unit 32 KW/Carrier 05G Wheelchair Lift Option.................................................................................Yes Steering ....................................................................................Power Steering Suspension .................................................Independent front suspension w/shock absorber

The Temsa TS 45 is manufactured in Turkey and is distributed exclusively in the United States by CH Bus Sales, LLC. The TS 45 is a fully integral full size coach constructed from stainless steel offering strength and stability. This coach is tested to ensure the highest quality performance.

With an American driveline (Cummins/Allison), the TS 45 provides power and serviceability. These are combined with European quality and craftsmanship to create a high quality driving experience.

This 56 passenger coach ensures the safety of passengers by offering the highest safety features on every coach. Standard features include an engine fire suppression system, lane departure warning system, tire pressure monitoring system, ABS, ATC, ESC, RSC, brake pad wear monitoring and warning system, and 3point safety belts. Also installed on this coach is laminated plus tempered window glass that is an excellent safety feature.

CH Bus Sales, LLC 1645 Lyndale Avenue N., Suite 102, Faribault, MN 55021 Phone: 507-331-7911; Fax: 507-331-1338 Website: www.chbussales.com

Model...............................................................................................Temsa TS 45 Seating Capacity .............................Up to 56 passengers with restroom Length...............................................................................................................45’ Width ...............................................................................................................102” Height ..............................................................................................................11.6’ Engine................................................................Cummins ISX 425 HP-EPA 16 Type of Fuel ...............................................................................................Diesel Chassis ......................................Frameless monocoque in stainless steel Air Conditioning ...........................................Full automatic HVAC system/ 6 cylinder Bitzer A/C compressor with brushless evaporator and condenser Wheelchair Lift Option ................................................................................Yes Steering ....................................................................................Power Steering Suspension .......Independent front suspension w/2 shock absorbers; Rear suspension w/4 shock absorbers; Tag suspension w/2 shock absorbers January/February 2016

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ABC Companies

Van Hool TX Motorcoach With its retooled chassis design, the TX Motorcoach features expanded baggage capacity and a host of luxury appointments.

Offering advanced technology and European design, the Van Hool TX class delivers high-style to American operators.

Available in 40- and 45-foot lengths, the TX luxury touring coach series combines the ultimate sophistication in engineering, styling and design with a robust, reliable performance. It’s in a class by itself, delivering high traveling style across North America.

ABC Companies; 1506 30th Street, NW; Faribault, MN 55021 USA; 507-334-1871 Fax: 507-334-0246 E-mail: abcinfo@abc-companies.com Website: www.abc-companies.com

Model................................................................................................Van Hool TX Seating Capacity................40’ - 48 Passenger with 3 point seat belts; 45’ - 56 Passenger with 3 point seat belts Length.......................................................................................................40’, 45’ Width ...............................................................................................................102” Height......................................................................................................12’ 2.25” Inside Height ..................................................................................................77” Engine .......................Detroit Diesel DD13 (450 HP) EPA 2013 - Standard ...........................Cummins ISX 12.9 (425 HP) EPA 2013 - Optional Transmission .........................Allison B500 Six-Speed Automatic (Gen5) Chassis .......................................................................................Stainless Steel Air Conditioning...................Integrated HVAC system/134a Refrigerant Wheelchair Lift Option Braun NL-502 Steering................................................................ZF Variable Ratio Steering Suspension............................Independent Front & Tag Axle Suspension Page 64

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January/February 2016

ABC Companies

Van Hool CX Motorcoach The CX series brings Van Hool’s quality design and engineering, plus rugged reliability and the perfect flexibility to a fleet. With parts interchangeability, fleet maintenance is a lot easier. The 35 and 45 foot models share a nearly identical design. Their high level of parts and components interchangeability drive some high-value benefits to operators. A dramatic reduction in spare parts investment is an obvious advantage, but for operators that already run the Van Hool CX45 in their fleets, the need for driver and mechanic training is greatly mitigated.

The CX35 features the same driver’s area layout, control panel and a familiar engine compartment layout - allowing drivers to confidently slip behind the wheel while enabling quick and easy mechanical serviceability - just like the CX45.

ABC Companies; 1506 30th Street, NW; Faribault, MN 55021 USA; 507-334-1871 Fax: 507-334-0246 E-mail: abcinfo@abc-companies.com Website: www.abc-companies.com

Model...........................................................................................Van Hool CX45 Seating Capacity ........................56 Passenger with 3 point seat belts Length ..............................................................................................................45’ Width ...............................................................................................................102” Height ............................................................................................................11’ 6” Engine ......................Detroit Diesel DD13 (450 HP) EPA 2013 - Standard; Cummins ISX 12.0 (425 HP) EPA 2013 Emission - Optional Transmission .........................Allison B500 Six-Speed Automatic (Gen5) Chassis .......................................................................................Stainless Steel Air Conditioning...................Integrated HVAC system/134a Refrigerant Wheelchair Lift Option Braun NL-501 or Ricon (BayLift®) Steering................................................................ZF Variable Ratio Steering Suspension............................Independent Front & Tag Axle Suspension

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ABC Companies

ABC Companies

Van Hool CX35 Motorcoach The CX35 and CX45 share a nearly identical design, including an extensive array of common parts and components that can drive some high-value benefits to operators. A dramatic reduction in spare parts investment is an obvious advantage, but for operators that already run the Van Hool CX45 in their fleets, the need for driver and mechanic training is greatly mitigated.

The CX35 features the same driver’s area layout and control panel as the CX45 - allowing drivers to easily adapt to operating the smaller vehicle with minimal training. And, a familiar engine compartment layout similar to the CX45 will enable technicians to quickly and easily understand how to service the coach.

With many exclusive features unique to the small-coach segment, the new Van Hool CX35 offers a truly user-friendly design.

Featuring front-to-rear flat passenger floor design, the coach’s 102 inch exterior width and full-size coach height offers a roomy and spacious cabin design, with no step-up throughout. The integrated A/C system translates to more luggage space below, plus a curved passenger entry is both aesthetically pleasing and offers the same uniform step height as the CX45 for passenger boarding. The CX35 also features a mid-ship wheelchair lift for ADA passengers.

ABC Companies; 1506 30th Street, NW; Faribault, MN 55021 USA; 507-334-1871 Fax: 507-334-0246 E-mail: abcinfo@abc-companies.com Website: www.abc-companies.com

Model...........................................................................................Van Hool CX35 Seating Capacity 38 Passenger with 3 point seat belts Length ...............................................................................................................35’ Width ...............................................................................................................102” Height ............................................................................................................11’ 6” Engine .....................................................Cummins ISL 9 (345 HP) EPA 2013 Transmission .........................Allison B500 Six-Speed Automatic (Gen5) Chassis .......................................................................................Stainless Steel Air Conditioning...................Integrated HVAC system/134a Refrigerant Wheelchair Lift Option Mid-Ship Position Wheelchair Lift w/ 2 Tie-Down Positions Steering................................................................ZF Variable Ratio Steering Suspension.................................................Independent Front Suspension

Van Hool TDX Double Deck Intercity Coach The highline Van Hool TDX double deck coach makes a bold statement in any marketplace. With passenger seating up to 81, this coach is the industry frontrunner in reduced carbon emissions and fuel consumption - providing an additional 43 percent more passenger capacity and up to 486 passenger miles per gallon.

Featuring a dramatic upper deck sky view rooftop, centrally located restroom, ample storage, front and rear stairs, dual-deck entertainment system and more, the TDX offers one of the most innovative coach designs offered to the U.S. traveling public since the Scenicruiser®.

The generously proportioned steps and wide doorways provide easy access and easy loading and unloading from both the front and the rear staircases. The lowered aisle and increased interior height enables every passenger to walk upright through the coach.

Three-point seat belts are standard on all seats. Individual lighting and ventilation, together with state-of-the-art integrated heating and air conditioning systems with upper and lower controls at each level, provide a comfortable environment for all passengers.

Model .............................................................................................Van Hool TDX Seating Capacity...................59 Seats Upper Deck and 22 Seats Lower Deck (81 Passenger Capacity) with 3 point seat belts; Restroom Deletion - Add 2 additional seats (83 Passenger Capacity) - Optional Length................................................................................................44’ 4-9/32” Width ...............................................................................................................102” Height ....................................................................................................13’ 1-1/16” Engine ................................................Cummins ISX 12.0 EPA 2013 (425 HP) Transmission........................................................................Allison B500R G5 Chassis ..................................................Stainless Steel Lower Body Frame Air Conditioning ....................................................Integrated HVAC system Wheelchair Lift Option ........................Foldable Wheelchair (ADA) Ramp with two tie-down positions in lower deck Steering................................................................ZF Variable Ratio Steering Suspension............................Independent Front & Tag Axle Suspension January/February 2016

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See us at UMA Expo Booth #521

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See us in Atlanta at UMA Jan. 31- Feb. 3, Booth #1140

Van Hool CX35

Van Hool Sky Deck

Contact ABC Companies for more information: 877.427.7278 option 1 or email abcinfo@abc-companies.com See us at UMA Expo Booths #6, #7 and #1140

abc-companies.com

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OUR REPUTATION FOR SERVICE IS FUELED BY EXPERIENCE. Every Prevost coach is backed by a highly skilled service team that’s committed to keeping you productive and profitable. From our 24-hour emergency assistance to our coast-to-coast network of certified providers, we’re here with uptime support that’s unmatched in the industry. www.prevostcar.com

See us at UMA Expo Booths #10 and #956