Jan/Feb 2017 Busline Magazine

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Trusted to keep you out in front.

At MCI, we take our customers where they want to go with coaches that offer exceptional style, reliability and value, with low total cost of operation. From our North American-made MCI J4500, the best-selling coach in its class, to the Buy America-compliant D-Series, plus the luxury of the Setra brand, we offer exceptional models, all backed by a parts and support network that is driven to excel. And now, teamed with New Flyer, we’re even better equipped to help your business move ahead with confidence. Contact us today to get out in front.

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CONTENTS

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JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2017 Published by Rankin Publishing, Inc. www.buslinemag.com

IN THIS ISSUE “You never get a second chance to make a first impression.”

Anderson Coach & Travel Celebrating Its 80th Year .................8

253 Vehicles Provide 9 Million Rider Trips Annually

Greater Dayton Regional Transit Authority...................30 UMA Headed To St. Louis For Expo ................................36 Busline Buyers Guides:

Vehicle Lifts...48 • Seating & Fabrics...50

Busline Vehicle Showcase: Motorcoaches .............................55-64 ON THE COVER: Anderson Coach & Travel, of Greenville, PA, is celebrating its 80th anniversary in 2017. The company provides various types of transportation services. Shown in front of one of the company's Prevost motorcoaches, left to right, are Ryan Nicklin, director of human resources and risk management; Sue Anderson Nicklin, vice president; and Doug Anderson, president. See page 8.

RAPID RESPONSE ..........................Page 6

INDUSTRY NEWS.......................Page 40

CALENDAR OF EVENTS FEBRUARY 2017 February 26-March 2 United Motorcoach Association (UMA) Motorcoach Expo St. Louis, MO Info: 800-424-8262

JUNE 2017 June 11-16 Community Transportation Association of America (CTAA) Expo 2017 Detroit, MI Info: 800-891-0590

MAY 2017 May 7-10 APTA Bus & Paratransit Conference Reno, NV Info: 202-496-4800

JULY 2017 July 14-19 National School Transportation Association (NSTA) Annual Meeting Indianapolis, IN Info: 703-684-3200

May 13-17 Canadian Urban Transit Association (CUTA) Annual Conference Montreal, Quebec Info: 416-365-9800

AUGUST 2017 August 6-9 International Motorcoach Group (IMG) Strategic Alliance Meeting Nashville, TN Info: 888-447-3466

SEPTEMBER 2017 September 11-13 BusCon 2016 Indianapolis, IN Info: 800-576-8788 OCTOBER 2017 October 8-11 APTA Expo & Annual Meeting Atlanta, GA Info: 202-496-4800 JANUARY 2018 January 27-30 American Bus Association (ABA) Annual Meeting & Marketplace Charlotte, NC Info: 800-283-2877

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 2017 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 2017

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, Kris Bott Reception: Mary Jo Dunn Advertising Contact Kevin Kennedy @ 813-502-6672 Email: kevloraz@gmail.com Or Don Rankin @ 800-598-8083 Fax: 217-268-4815 Email: drankin@consolidated.net

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THE IS COME SEE US AT UMA 2017 TO EXPERIENCE THE FUTURE BOOTH # 1635

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50 Glaval Bus ....................55

Prevost ..........................56

Motor Coach Industries...58

Visit Busline at UMA Expo #

BOOTH 1806 ABC Companies.........60-62

Company

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

Website

Irizar .............................64

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5Star Specialty www.5starsp.com ABC Companies www.abc-companies.com Access Commercial Capital www.accesscapital.biz Alliance Bus Group www.alliancebusgroup.com Amaya-Astron www.amaya-astron.com.mx American Cooling Technology, Inc. www.actusa.us.com AngelTrax www.angeltrax.com ARBOC Specialty Vehicles www.ARBOCsv.com Atlantic Detroit Diesel-Allison www.atlanticdda.com Awash Systems Corp. www.awashsystems.com Bauer’s Intelligent Transportation www.bauerscertifiedpreowned.com Bergen Auto Upholstery Co., Inc. www.bergenseat.com Bitimec Wash-Bots www.wash-bots.com Bitzer www.bitzerus.com Bridgestone www.bridgestonefirestonemileagesales.com BYD www.byd.com Camira www.camirafabrics.com Carlyle www.carlylecompressor.com CBM NA www.cbmna.com Complete Coach Works www.completecoach.com Continental VDO www.vdoroadlog.com Davey Coach Sales, Inc. www.daveycoach.com De Leo Transportation Fabrics www.deleotf.com Detroit Diesel www.DemandDetroit.com Diamond Manufacturing www.diamondmfg.com Dixie Electric Ltd. www.dixie-electric.com Euramtec www.euramtec.com Freightliner www.freightlinerchassis.com Glaval Bus www.GlavalBus.com Hudson River Corporation www.lavdump.com idrive www.idriveglobal.com

27 5 41 7 10 28 11 14 34 48 40 54 16 36 18 15 52 44 35 20 33 29 53 9 48 46 42 3 13 45 17

Company

INA Bus Sales (Irizar) Kiel Seats North America LLC Lancer Insurance Lantal Textiles, Inc. Lazzerini Marathon Brake Systems Midwest Bus Corporation Mile-X Mohawk Lifts Motor Coach Industries (MCI) Motorcoach Tire Sales Onspot Automatic Tire Chains Prevost Car ProAir, LLC Profusion Industries Relational Bus Systems Resorts Casino Hotel RUD Chain, Inc. Safety Step Sardo Bus & Coach Upholstery Service Insurance Shriver/Capacity Insurance Sutrak TEMSA TIB TransitWorks Turtle Top UMA United States Warranty Corp.

Willingham Inc. Worldwide Monochem

UMA Motorcoach Expo Booth Numbers Current As Of 02/02/17, courtesy of www.motorcoachexpo.com.

Website

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www.inabussales.com www.kielna.com www.lancerinsurance.com www.lantaltextiles.com www.lazzerini.it/en/ www.MarathonBrake.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.rbs2000.com www.ResortsAC.com www.rotogrip.us www.safetystep.net www.sardobus.com www.serviceins.com www.shriverinsurance.com www.sutrakusa.com www.temsa.com www.tibinsurance.com www.Transit-Works.com www.turtletop.com www.motorcoachexpo.com www.uswceagle.com www.willinghaminc.com www.worldwidemonochem.com

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

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January/February 2017

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See us at UMA Expo Booths #5 and #1335

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A n d e r s o n C o a c h & Tr a v e l Celebrating Its 80th Year “You never get a second chance to make a first impression.”

Anderson Coach & Travel is a family-owned and operated enterprise. Shown at left are company officials Doug Anderson, Sue Anderson Nicklin and Ryan Nicklin.

The company's facility is located in Greenville, PA.

By Harrell Kerkhoff Busline Magazine Editor

ince 1937, the Anderson family of western Pennsylvania has been in the business of transporting people to destinations and events as far away as Alaska. In 2017, Anderson Coach & Travel is celebrating its 80th anniversary with special programs and service throughout the year, as the company looks ahead with second- and third-generation family members at the helm.

Today, the Greenville, PA, company is a diversified transportation provider, working within three main travel segments: n Charters — The company’s charter operations service a large number of groups, schools, universities and tour operators across western Pennsylvania and eastern Ohio; n Tours — This involves more than 300 preplanned tours each year, from one-day casino trips to an extended round trip experience to Alaska.

Some of Anderson Coach & Travel’s most popular tour destinations include regular New York City Express trips that give guests 12

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hours in The Big Apple without the burden of arranging for a hotel or parking; overnights to Lancaster, PA, to see shows at the Sight & Sound Theatres; and trips to such popular locations as New England, Mackinac Island, MI, and Florida. The company also offers three-day tours to such destinations as New York City, Washington, D.C., Chicago, IL, and Nashville, TN; as well as its popular 12-ormore-day Showcase Vacation Tours. In some years, the company has been connected in some way to all 50 states pertaining to its charter and tour offerings; and, n School transport — The origin of Anderson Coach & Travel is school bus transportation, and this service remains a major part of the business today.

“By revenue, our charter operation is the largest part of the business when it comes to servicing customers across Pennsylvania and Ohio. By number of vehicles, our school service is the largest, operating nearly 100 vehicles in support of school districts in western Pennsylvania,” Anderson Coach & Travel President Doug Anderson said. “Our company

started in 1937 with school transportation, and has been involved with some of our existing school contracts since 1948. We continue to service these schools and look at them as an extension of our own organization.

“We have found various opportunities in our area over the past three years to help us increase our school bus business by over 50 percent. We don’t want to service everybody, but selectively have chosen those school districts where we think we can make a difference in their transportation needs.”

Turning 80 years old is a big deal for the Anderson family as well as the company’s approximately 280 employees. Plans are in the works to celebrate all year long, and will include a special “Birthday Bash” tour.

“We hold a ‘Birthday Bash’ tour every year, but this year we expect it to be larger,” Doug Anderson said. “We already have four coaches sold out for the trip, which will travel to Branson, MO, in September. Guests will receive a special customer appreciation ‘thank you’ price, which will include most of their meals, sightseeing and seven shows in Branson.

“We see this as a celebration for turning 80 and an appreciation of our customers.

Hopefully, it will become a high-volume trip.

The last time we visited Branson, which was for our 75th anniversary, it involved 12 motorcoaches. To have three already booked thus far, for our 80th anniversary celebration, is a very good indicator.”

January/February 2017

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The 80th anniversary celebration Dorotha and O.D. Anderson are pictured at left. The couple were the started in late December 2016 with a driving force behind Anderson Coach & Travel for many decades. kick-off dinner for the company. At this O.D. Anderson is shown at right during an early trip. event, a representative from Prevost presented the Anderson family with a special painting.

Anderson Coach & Travel was also able to showcase one of its motorcoaches, as well as the company’s antique bus, during the recent American Bus Association (ABA) Annual Meeting & Marketplace in Cleveland, OH. “As a company, the significance of turning 80 is ber of local colleges that are all about longevity, stabiliour customers. Applications ty and being blessed with were solicited from individumany quality employees als at these colleges who wantover the years,” Anderson ed the opportunity to travel Coach & Travel Vice and report their experiences President Sue Anderson from the road through social media. We accepted an applicaNicklin said. She is a sister tion from a student who is attending the University of Mount of Doug Anderson. “We Union, in Alliance, OH. She will be spending 80 days on the remain dedicated to providroad with our company to celebrate 80 years of service. She ing superior travel experihas been given scholarship funds and will blog about her travences for the years ahead.” els online. It should be fun.”

To further celebrate the The student kicked off her adventures by taking an Anderson company’s 80th anniversary, Anderson Coach & Travel has welcomed a “roving reporter” to trav- Coach & Travel motorcoach for a New York City Express trip on New Year’s Eve. The “roving reporter” will spend another 79 days on the road el for 80 days with the company to different destinations.

Doug Anderson explained the concept: “We were brainstorming about with the company.

She can be followed at: www.OnTheRoadWithGoAnderson.com. unique ways that our company could tell its story and show what it’s like “We offer around 300 tours a year. She will be exploring new destinato be a passenger on one of our trips. We decided to reach out to a num-

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tions such as Mackinac Island, reporting live, taking videos and documenting the experiences that our passengers have, then broadcasting on social media,” Doug Anderson said. “Our hope is that this will help showcase our company to a younger generation. There are many services we provide that are of interest to younger customers. This includes wine tasting tours, trips to New York City and Washington, D.C., and NASCAR races.”

When it comes to motorcoach charter work, officials at Anderson Coach & Travel take advantage of the many colleges and universities located in the company’s wide service region.

“We are proud of our strong affiliations with a number of local Division I and Division II schools,” Doug Anderson said. “This involves a lot of campus-to-campus transportation, such as for athletic teams.”

LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT

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he origin of Anderson Coach & Travel can be traced to a chance meeting between a young entrepreneur and a new school teacher.

In 1937, O.D. Anderson started transporting children to and from a one-room school house near Mercer, PA, using a converted panel truck.

That first day, he went to check on the dismissal time of the school, asking the young teacher by the name of Dorotha “Dot” Elder. The two soon struck a friendship and three years later were married. They would form a strong alliance that lasted for 50 years, involving a marriage, a family and a business.

“Our dad always said he fell in love on his first bus trip,” Doug Anderson said. “They were married in 1940. While our dad drove the bus, our mom, who stopped teaching, handled all of the behind-the-scenes work. This included bookkeeping, tour planning, chartering bus routes and dispatching drivers.”

Together, the young couple shared an entrepreneurial spirit that started with other businesses as well. This included trucking and selling farm

Anderson Coach & Travel received the International Motorcoach Group (IMG) Safety Award in 2016. Members of the Anderson Safety Committee are shown above.

In the photo at right, Doug Anderson is presented the award by Dennis Streif, past chairman of IMG (far right).

machinery, steel buildings and automobiles. In 1957, they made a total commitment to the transportation industry.

O.D. and Dorotha Anderson also raised four children: Karen, Lyle, Sue and Doug. All four of the younger Andersons became part of the company from an early age, learning to clean buses, answering the company phone and working around the office. Two of the children, Sue and Doug, remain active in the business today.

Although the cornerstone of the business has always been transporting

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students, O.D. Anderson saw an “School bus transportation is still opportunity early on to branch out an integral part of our business, but his fledgling bus enterprise. In 1941, we feel Anderson Coach & Travel he started organizing sightseeing has become a leader on a national trips to Pittsburgh, PA, visiting such scale when it comes to the motorplaces as the Carnegie Museum and coach business,� Doug Anderson the H. J. Heinz factory. said. “Our father drove a coach to “Dad didn’t want his school buses many destinations around the counto be dormant on the weekends. He try. He was a self-taught walking started taking adults on educational book of knowledge about places to go and see in the United States and trips to Pittsburgh,� Doug Anderson said. “It’s important to remember that Canada. He was a true pioneer in this took place in the the motorcoach business, 1940s. A lot of people my while our mom managed dad was transporting durthe operational aspects of Several drivers for ing these early trips were the office, while having Anderson Coach from rural areas in western four children.� & Travel are shown Pennsylvania. These trips Always willing to show above, while mechanics not only provided additionhis customers new places Scott Fetzer, left, and al revenue for my parents, to visit via a motorcoach, Rick Rupinski, right, are but allowed many of these O.D. Anderson decided in also pictured. people to see the highlights 1966 that a month-long of downtown Pittsburgh round trip to Alaska was in for the first time. order. With the help of one “Even as a young man years later, I can recall my father driving a group of his drivers, O.D. Anderson and a group of passengers made the long of people to old Forbes Field to watch the Pittsburgh Pirates play. I journey to The Last Frontier, often traveling on dirt roads. The company remember that he parked our bus on a large hill. Our company has always became one of the first — if not the first — motorcoach operation locathad a great following of customers seeking transportation to watch vari- ed east of the Mississippi River to take on such an enormous trip. It’s a service that continues to this day, although many of the roads have greatous sports teams in such cities as Pittsburgh and Cleveland.�

In 1948, O.D. and Dorotha Anderson purchased their first motorcoach. ly improved. “We have been running a company tour to Alaska since 1966 that takes This led to further growth for the company’s transportation business.

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See us at UMA Expo Booth #111

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between 28 and 31 days. It provides motorcoach transportation as well as travel by ferry and train. The group tours the whole way to Alaska and the whole way back, with Alaska obviously being the featured destination,� Doug Anderson said.

died in 2013 at the age of 96. “The values that our parents instilled in us have always centered around a strong commitment to customer service, safety, preventative maintenance and a family atmosphere,� Doug Anderson said. “This translates to providing a

“The values that our parents instilled in us have always centered around a strong commitment to customer service, safety, preventative maintenance and a family atmosphere.

This translates to providing a quality experience for our customers, and involves hiring the right people and purchasing the best equipment to make this happen.� —Doug Anderson, president Anderson Coach & Travel has provided its Alaskan tour as many as three times a year, but currently offers it every second or third year, depending on demand. “We keep a waiting list, allowing us to attain a good pre-sell on this offering,� Doug Anderson said.

O.D. and Dorotha Anderson had been married for 50 years when O.D. died in 1990. In 1991, Doug Anderson was named company president. Dorotha stayed actively involved with the family business well into her 90s. She

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quality experience for our customers, and involves hiring the right people and purchasing the best equipment to make this happen.�

Doug Anderson, and his sister Sue Anderson Nicklin, currently run the company. Three years ago, they welcomed Sue’s son, Ryan Nicklin, who is now the company’s director of human resources and risk management. He is also a qualified motorcoach operator, driving for the company on a part-time basis. “Primarily, I oversee our human resources and safety departments, managing personnel

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lthough variations have taken place over the years, one well-known characteristic of Anderson Coach & Travel’s motorcoaches has been their look — namely black vehicles with red, yellow and orange accents as part of the company logo. “Our clients often refer to these vehicles as, ‘black beauties,’� Sue Anderson Nicklin said. “We have recently introduced a new design for the side of our newer motorcoaches to honor the company’s 80th anniversary. It features a starburst and road design in red, yellow and orange graphics, depicting our company’s moving forward spirit, while keeping the Old English ‘A’ for ‘Anderson’ that Dad and Mom developed in the early 1960s.�

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issues and helping ensure that we hire the best people possible,� Ryan Nicklin said. “This involves both the motorcoach and school bus side of our company.�

Nicklin is an Air Force Academy graduate, and was a fighter pilot in the U.S. Air Force, spending 13 years in the military prior to joining Anderson Coach & Travel.

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See us at UMA Expo Booth #1427

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tinguished color for a vehicle. It portrays the type of service that the Anderson organization has always provided, a type of black limousinestyle service. Black remains our main color of choice for motorcoaches, even though it’s probably the hardest color to maintain from a cleanliness standpoint.”

According to Doug Anderson, the company’s employees take great pride in these vehicles.

“Our black motorcoaches attract a lot of attention. It’s not unusual for people to ask one of our drivers, while stopped at a destination, if the vehicle is an entertainer coach,” Doug Anderson said. “We get a lot of compliments.

They become moving billboards, which help with our marketing/branding efforts.”

There are also other ways company officials get the word out about Anderson Coach & Travel’s transportation offerings. When it comes to tour options, the company makes seven annual mailings that are sent to approximately 27,000 clients. These mailings are constantly showcasing new tour products.

“We also are community minded, and support benefits through tour offerings when applicable,” Sue Anderson Nicklin said.

“Other ways we publicize our company is through newspaper and radio advertising, as well as having an up-to-date website for our charter and tour guests. And, Anderson

Coach & Travel is active on Facebook and Shutterfly.

“We also employ outside sales people who contact current and potential customers via the phone and in person. All of these efforts make for a strong marketing program.”

Anderson Coach & Travel provides a wide assortment of vehicles for its varied customer base. This includes a full range of school and cutaway buses, 12- and 15-passenger vans, and different sizes of motorcoaches.

“In an effort to be as ‘green’ as possible, providing the right type of vehicle, from a economy standpoint, is very important. For example, if we are transporting a 20-member high school wrestling team, we are not going to be using a 56-passenger motorcoach,” Doug Anderson said. “It’s important to provide alternatives, at more affordable rates, while reducing our carbon footprint.”

Among the company’s fleet of vehicles are many over-the-road Prevost motorcoaches.

Anderson Coach & Travel has had a business relationship with Prevost since the late 1990s.

“We are proud to have had over 52 Prevost coaches in our fleet during this time. Prevost manufactures a great product, and does very well with keeping up with the latest technology,” Doug Anderson said. “We currently operate 32 H3-45 56-passenger Prevost motor-

coaches for our tour and charter businesses. We received two new 2017 Prevost vehicles last fall, with three more ordered for delivery in early 2017.”

Among the many amenities on these motorcoaches are Wi-Fi capabilities and 110-volt outlets with USB ports at every seat.

“It seems no matter the demographic, people like to stay connected. All Anderson coaches also have been retrofitted with seatbelts,” Doug Anderson added, “and we have updated many of our seats. This provides added comfort and leg room. We also have cup holders with this seating on our newer vehicles. And of course, restrooms, several monitors and beautiful scenic-view windows are standard.”

He added that high-definition televisions and video equipment are extremely important to the company’s athletic teams and student groups, the latter of which often play educational tapes en route to various destinations.

All Anderson Coach & Travel vehicles are equipped with GPS for tracking purposes, and are 100 percent electronic logged.

“We have always embraced technology to make our operations more efficient, safer and to better serve our customers. Our charter order and dispatch system is connected to advanced software, which also provides an Internet portal for our drivers to receive trip assignments

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and paperwork remotely,” Doug Anderson said. “Our vehicle maintenance is also tracked and completed with sophisticated software. We have made use of wireless vehicle telematics and tracking for several years, and this year we have completed the transition to electronic records of duty status, well before the mandated deadline.

“Our tour planning and reservation system is also software based, and we make great use of customer relationship management software and programs to remain engaged with our charter and tour customers. In the interest of safety, all of our vehicles, including school buses, are equipped with camera systems to monitor driver and passenger behavior, as well as capture any road incidents that may occur.”

The company’s “track your coach” service is becoming increasingly popular among various customer groups.

“This is a system we pioneered, in cooperation with our telematics provider. From our company’s website, any customer with a charter order number can track the vehicle associated with his/her trip, down to a street level view on a map. We have found this to be very popular among parents during school trips. They are able to see where their children are in realtime,” Doug Anderson said. “This has also been popular with athletic directors, who can

now see the actual time of arrival for different sports teams. It provides everybody with an added level of comfort.”

Keeping vehicles clean and beautiful — inside and out — is another long standing practice first started by O.D. and Dorotha Anderson many decades ago.

“We take great pride in the quality and appearance of our vehicles. As the saying goes, ‘You never get a second chance to make a first impression,’” Doug Anderson said.

The company employs a staff to clean and service its vehicles seven days a week. This work is dedicated to interior and exterior cleaning after every trip.

“We have excellent supervisors who keep everybody on task, making sure all of our vehicles are cleaned to company specifications,” Doug Anderson added.

GREENVILLE, PA: RIGHT IN THE MIDDLE

T

he rural western Pennsylvania community of Greenville (estimated population 5,900) is conveniently located in the middle of an imaginary triangle between three well known cities/metropolitan areas: Pittsburgh to the south; Cleveland to the west; and Erie, PA, to the north.

Youngstown, OH, is also nearby.

“We have a great facility in Greenville. It has expanded as the business has grown over the years, with multiple additions through the decades. In fact, Doug’s current office was once the living room of the house we grew up in, as our old family home has become part of the company’s main office complex,” Sue Anderson Nicklin said.

Doug Anderson added: “We have a very large presence with our facility and grounds in Greenville. This includes nearly 20 acres. There are four generations of garages that have evolved here, having been built in 1948, 1955, 1972 and 2000. We are proud of our modern, first-class maintenance shop. Our company was started near Mercer, PA, and was moved to Greenville in 1948 after attaining local school bus routes. We do have a few buses stationed in Cleveland, but the rest of our operation is based in Greenville.”

The main service region for Anderson Coach & Travel is western Pennsylvania, eastern Ohio, West Virginia and western New York. The company, however, sees itself as a national provider of transportation services, and is able to take customers across North America.

“As would be expected in our area, our two largest destinations remain New York City and Washington, D.C., but we regularly travel all

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across the country and into Canada,” Sue Anderson Nicklin said.

The rural nature of Greenville presents both challenges and advantages for the Andersons.

“Geographically speaking, sometimes it is a challenge when we have to go a long way to pick up groups, but the quality of personnel that we can recruit here is very good and a defining factor for us,” Doug Anderson said. “We currently employ about 280 people, which includes our sales staff, maintenance and cleaning personnel, dispatchers, coach operators, tour directors, school bus operators and support personnel.”

Although all jobs are important, any good bus/motorcoach transportation company heavily relies on employing and maintaining quality drivers. Anderson Coach & Travel is no different.

“Customer service is a fundamental part of our initial driver training. We hire drivers based on their personalities; and then we train them to drive,” Doug Anderson said. “We like to hire the right personality in order to provide the right customer service, and then we train them to become excellent bus and motorcoach operators.”

As director of human resources and risk management for the company, Ryan Nicklin said the first item of importance when looking

Sue Anderson Nicklin and Doug Anderson are pictured with their mother, Dorotha Anderson, in front of the company's antique vehicle.

At right, Ryan Nicklin represents the family’s third generation at Anderson Coach & Travel.

for driver candidates is their focus on safety.

“We want to bring in people who understand that they are being given the responsibility for 50 or more customers during a trip. The decisions they have to make as drivers on the road

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BUSLINE

January/February 2017

will affect those individual lives. So safety must be No. 1 in importance,” he said. “And then they have to recognize the customer service aspect to the job. Driver candidates need to have the capability to interact positively with passengers, while representing our company in a professional manner.”

Throughout the initial driver training process, Ryan Nicklin said it’s also important to properly evaluate a candidate’s ability to manage stress, avoid distractions and to prioritize tasks.

“No trip is going to be exactly the same.

Drivers have to be flexible and demonstrate good decision making — all in an effort to get our guests safely down the road and back home,” he added.

Driver candidates at Anderson Coach & Travel take part in five weeks of training. This involves approximately one week of classroom curriculum, followed by four weeks of on-the-road driving to perfect their operational skills. Following this training, they are placed with a mentor for three months.

Mentors assist each new driver with any issues that arise.

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0117Busline.FINAL_Layout 1 2/3/17 9:41 AM Page 24

Located in a northern climate, not far from area, where many people know we offer a qual- all via motorcoach, and are the most expenLake Erie and its lake-effect snow capabilities, ity place to work.” sive. We offer a rotation of these tours as Another important position within the diverse as the Northwest Territories, the driving in ice and snow is a common challenge for rookie and seasoned drivers alike. Ryan employee ranks is that of tour directors. These Pacific Northwest, California Redwoods, the Nicklin said that many driver candidates get an are employees who accompany drivers during Southwest and national parks as well as our early taste of possible winter hazards, as the motorcoach tours to make the trip more inform- Alaskan program. Our clients have great concompany’s main training school usually begins ative and enjoyable for customers. fidence in spending their leisure dollars with in January. us, and we are very proud of these programs.”

“Anderson Coach & Travel “Customer service is a fundamental invests a great amount in training To properly gauge customer part of our initial driver training. We hire experiences during a trip provided so all of our drivers are prepared to operate safely in all conditions.

by Anderson Coach & Travel, the drivers based on their personalities; This includes training every year company conducts customer satison how to drive safely in adverse faction surveys. The goal of these and then we train them to drive.” weather,” Ryan Nicklin said. “We —Doug Anderson, president surveys is to see how well the also conduct annual winterization company pleased its passengers in checks on each of our vehicles to specific areas of service.

“They tend to the needs of our customers and ensure they are in proper condition to safely “For charters, we ask about the quality of provide pertinent information throughout the their experience with the driver, the vehicle operate in ice and snow.”

He added that company officials continue to trip,” Sue Anderson Nicklin said. “We take and other fundamentals; and on our tour side, focus on training throughout a driver’s career, great pride in hiring individuals who love peo- we ask about the driver, the tour director, the and use a variety of recruitment tools to find ple and traveling. These associates are available motorcoach as well as the quality of amenities to our guests 24/7 while on the road, and must found in the hotels and sightseeing attractions new drivers. they visited,” Doug Anderson said. “These are “We have been blessed with good drivers, but possess great people skills and adaptability.

“Whether part of our Alaskan trip or travel- the finer details of the tour and travel experifinding new candidates can be a challenge.

However, we feel that the culture of our compa- ing to New York City, the fact that we have a ence that interest us. We are constantly evaluny, as well as its representatives, are our best tour director on board adds to the professional- ating our performance when it comes to cusambassadors to attract quality individuals. We ism that we are selling within our retail tours. tomer service.” like to use in-person referrals when seeking The Anderson organization has enjoyed much He added that the company’s driver bonus new employees,” Ryan Nicklin said. “Anderson success with our retail Showcase Vacation program places a large emphasis on its driver Coach & Travel enjoys a good reputation in our Tours. These are longer trips (12 days or more) surveys. All comments are shared with associ-

Page 24

BUSLINE

January/February 2017

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start the trip, he/she logs in which tells management that a driver has arrived at the garage and ready to go out on the road. If that driver fails to do this within a given period of time before the trip, management is notified. A process is then put into place to find out where that driver is, and why he/she did not properly report for duty. “This type of service helps prevent a customer from calling us at the last minute, asking where it’s still his/her group’s motorcoach about selling to, and interacting with, people. is, only to later find that the driver simply overslept.�

MORE TO COME This is definitely a ‘people industry.’�

Keeping up with technolo—Sue Anderson Nicklin, vice president gy is seen by officials at fter 80 years of servAnderson Coach & Travel as ice, the Anderson family and their employees are ready electronic logging compliance. We have actual- one reason why the business has been able to to embrace the many opportunities and chal- ly found that once presented with this technol- thrive for 80 years. ogy, our drivers have embraced electronic loglenges awaiting them down the road. “At one time, there were three motorcoach “We are very confident that we have a bright ging extremely well. This is one of those issues companies in our county, which has a populafuture and are happy that, with the arrival of that Ryan, and other members of our compli- tion of 120,000 residents. We are the sole surRyan three years ago, a third generation family ance department, are constantly talking to driv- vivor through acquisition and attrition. It member is on board,� Doug Anderson said. ers about,� Doug Anderson said. “We also have helps that we have stayed on the cutting edge “The important thing is to not become compla- been busy with a unique program now in place of new ideas and new techniques,� Doug regarding our dispatching. When a driver is Anderson said. cent as a company. “I feel there will always be opportunities for assigned to a trip, he/she can get all of the trip’s Giving back to the North American good, quality motorcoach transportation serv- information through a Web portal. This bus/motorcoach industry is also important to ices. There will also always be low-cost com- includes itinerary and any paper work. That the Anderson family. petition. Therefore, it’s important that driver can print this information from home. “I have been active in many of our industryAnderson Coach & Travel differentiates itself Then, when that driver reports to the garage to related associations through the years. ates so they are aware of customer perceptions. by providing a superior travel experience for “This acts as a great training tool in itself. our customers.�

Adapting to new government regulations Our company’s mission is to provide superior travel experiences. Every one of our associates that continue to populate the U.S. bus/motorplays a role in achieving that mission, and we coach transportation industry is another objecregularly conduct training focused on customer tive for company officials. “We pride ourselves in staying on top of regservice,� Doug Anderson said. “Past programs in this area have included ‘Out Of This World ulations to the point that many times we are Customer Service’ through the International ahead of government deadlines, such as with Motorcoach Group (IMG), which we are planning to “As high tech as we all are today, update and complete again.�

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Specifically, I have served as president of IMG and currently sit on many of its committees. I have also served in various capacities with The American Bus Association (ABA), such as being a past president of the organization and currently the chairperson of the ABA Foundation,” Doug Anderson said. “Anderson Coach & Travel is also a longtime member of the United Motorcoach Association (UMA), the Pennsylvania School Bus Association, the Pennsylvania Bus Association, and has been a contributor to The Museum of Bus Transportation, in Hershey, PA.” Anderson Coach & Travel has also received recognition within the industry. For example, in 2016 the company was named the IMG Safety Award winner. IMG also presented the business with its Operator of the Year Award in 2011.

“We were extremely honored to receive these awards, having been chosen from an elite group of motorcoach operators,” Doug Anderson said.

The Anderson family is confident that the overall bus/motorcoach industry in North America will continue to grow in the years and decades ahead.

“I feel there will always be a need for point A to point B personalized group service. This industry has available various sizes and types of vehicles that can be operated very cost effectively for a wide range of customers,” Doug

T

Prevost presented a painting to Anderson Coach & Travel in honor of the company’s 80th anniversary. Shown, left to right, are Doug Anderson, Sue Anderson Nicklin, Ryan Nicklin and Prevost's David Schmidt.

Anderson said. “The camaraderie that is part of this industry is always critical to its success. I continue to believe that there will always be people who want to be part of other people’s experiences as they traverse our country. This can be accomplished very well via motorcoaches. It’s a flexible means of transportation.”

Sue Anderson Nicklin added: “As high tech

as we all are today, it’s still about selling to, and interacting with, people. This is definitely a ‘people industry.’”

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“It’s time to ride.”

253 Vehicles Provide 9 Million Rider Trips Annually

By Rick Mullen, Busline Magazine Associate Editor

kiosks and easy-to-read digital he Greater Dayton signage, with real-time bus Regional Transit arrival and departure displays.

Authority (RTA), The sheltered waiting area feaof Dayton, OH, tures architectural “rooms withoperates the fourth out walls” that define well-lit largest transit system in the platform sections, full accessistate behind the Greater bility for customers with disCleveland Regional Transit abilities, and climate control for Authority, the Central Ohio winter conditions, according to Transit Authority (Columbus) www.downtowndayton.org. and Cincinnati Metro. RTA RTA’s vision statement is, services the transportation “To be a premier public transneeds of customers in Montportation provider that connects gomery County, of which people and communities.”

Dayton in the county seat, and The agency’s mission statea portion of Greene County to ment is, “To provide great the east. value, dependable service, and “RTA has a total of 253 vehito be responsive, timely and cles, including 177 fixedChief Customer and Business Development Officer Brandon Policicchio accountable for all that we do.” routes buses and 76 vehicles in our paratransit fleet,” said Chief Customer and Business Development Officer Brandon ITS TECHNOLOGY OVERHAUL Policicchio, during a recent interview with Busline Magazine.

RTA recently completed a $13 million project to upgrade its real Operating 35 fixed-routes, while maintaining more than 3,000 bus time information system and other ITS (intelligent transportation sysstops and 5 transit hubs, RTA’s motto is “It’s time to ride.” The system’s fixed-route buses travel an average of a little more than 7 million miles tem) technologies.

“We had a full overhaul of our ITS system, and part of that involved annually, while the paratransit fleet logs 1.8 million miles a year.

RTA’s riders take 9 million-plus trips annually. The system serves daily our CAD/AVL (computer aided dispatch/automated vehicle locator) sys30,000 fixed-route customers and over 400 paratransit customers. In addi- tems, which drive the real time information system,” Policicchio said. tion, its Wright Stop Plaza Transit Center connects over 17,000 trips each “We call the real time information system ‘RTA RideTime.’”

RTA patrons can receive real time information about when a bus day in downtown Dayton.

The center, which opened in mid-August 2009, features informational will arrive at a particular bus stop by way of a mobile app for smart

T

0117Busline.FINAL_Layout 1 2/3/17 9:41 AM Page 31

With RideTime, customers will also be able to see where RTA buses are located on an interactive map. Similar technology allows agency dispatchers and supervisors to see exactly where a bus is located and to communicate with a driver important information, such as a sudden detour or necessary reroutes, according to RTA. “The system works by recording the GPS location of a bus into the system,” Policicchio said. “Based on the speed of the bus, locations of time points RTA employees Terry Downey, Barb Chamberlain and on routes and GPS coorNathan Owens (left to right) discuss the phone app, Transit, dinates, the system is during a RideTime training event for RTA staff members. able to predict the time it is going to take a bus Cincinnati utilize the app. So, technically, peoto arrive at a particular location.” ple could use this app in Columbus and pull up Policicchio said RideTime has their system’s bus information. Likewise, a perbeen embraced by RTA patrons as son could go to Cincinnati and view that sysa helpful aid in riding the bus. tem’s real time bus information,” Policicchio Furthermore, the Transit app can said. “It is a universal app that is available be used to track buses in other around the world.” cities that use it in their real time While the RideTime upgrade was the primary systems. There have been almost goal of the $13 million project, other technolo2,000 app downloads since RTA gies were also included. launched its real time technologies RTA employee Linda Tipton trains customers “We have also upgraded our camera and in December 2016. on how to use the new RideTime features radio systems on all our vehicles,” PolMarathonBuslineAd_1_17.qxp_Layout 12/20/16 1 example, Columbus and icicchio said. during a public event at Wright1Stop Plaza. 2:15 PM Page“For

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streetcar fleet. As a result, what was to be an â&#x20AC;&#x153;experimentâ&#x20AC;? with the new electric trolley buses became a permanent replacement, according to Mark Donaghy, who is CEO of Greater Dayton RTA. Today, RTA is one of only five transit agencies still operating trolley buses on overhead electric wires. The other four are in Boston, MA, Seattle, WA, Philadelphia, PA and San Francisco, CA. The trolley buses are equipped with poles that are raised to connect them TRAVELING â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;OFF THE WIREâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Top: RTAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new NexGen dual mode electric trolley bus with the electric lines overhead. is parked outside Wright Stop Plaza. â&#x20AC;&#x153;One of the challenges RTA faces is According to RTAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s history summary Below: Passengers board a NexGen trolley bus our current trolley bus fleet dates to on its website, www.i-riderta.org, the on the platform at Wright Stop Plaza.

1998,â&#x20AC;? Policicchio said. first public transportation system in Furthermore, Policicchio explained, Dayton operated 36 years before the first the trolleys can only run off the wire for area electric light was turned on, and 41 a short period of time. However, this is years before the first paved street was about to change as RTA is poised to complete. The Omnibus Line, begun in introduce what it calls its â&#x20AC;&#x153;NexGenâ&#x20AC;? trol1847, took passengers from Dayton ley buses. south to Cincinnati for $2. It took seven The new trolleys will operate on the hours to complete a trip that today would wire, but will also have a battery to allow take less than an hour by car. them to travel up to 15 miles off-wire.

In 1869 the Dayton Street Railway During the past 18 months, Dayton Company built a streetcar line, which is experimented with four NexGen protoconsidered the real birth of public transtypes, built through a unique partnership portation in Dayton. between Vossloh North America and In August 1888, electric line service Gillig Corp. The buses are the only purbegan in Dayton. The system was built pose-built, dual mode coaches in the by an electric railway company out of electric lines have been â&#x20AC;&#x153;hotâ&#x20AC;? ever since.

Chicago. Work on the line was completed by In 1933 the first electric trolley buses arrived U.S. Not only can these buses run off-wire, but moonlight in order to avoid mule or horse in Dayton. A 1932 fire in one of the car barns the trolley poles can be deployed or racked streetcar traffic in the daytime. Daytonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s consumed a significant portion of Daytonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s without the driver ever leaving his seat. As part RTAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new high definition camera system allows dispatchers and security personnel to take a â&#x20AC;&#x153;live-lookâ&#x20AC;? into all vehicles to see exactly what is happening at any time, according to RTA. This $3.1 million system upgrade was installed on all fixed route and paratransit vehicles.

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of Dayton’s investment in the latest electric trolley technology, there are plans to convert the agency’s diesel routes back to electric trolley bus service as the NexGen fleet grows, Donaghy said.

“We had certain requirements that we were looking for when we developed this trolley bus.

The two vendors came to the table and said they would work together and provide us with this vehicle,” Policicchio said. “In the United States right now, there is no other trolley system that has a vehicle that has been proven to operate off the wire for long periods of time. NexGen buses will replace our almost 20-year-old trolleys. In addition, our trolley infrastructure is a major source of funding. We get additional federal funds to maintain the system’s infrastructure.”

Policicchio said RTA’s next large investment is to replace the trolley system’s infrastructure.

Dayton has 124 miles of active wire servicing seven bus routes. The agency will soon release a plan for a complete overhaul of the system.

“In some areas (the wire) is more than 100 years old,” Policicchio said. “We have an aggressive plan to get that system up and running.

“Starting this year, we also are going to move toward purchasing an open fare payment system. Customers will be able to pay on board with their smartphones or smartcard enabled transit passes. Hopefully, that project will be completed by the end of next year, 2018.”

banstats.org, while Montgomery County, as a whole, has a little more than 500,000 residents. The origin of the city’s nickname is uncertain, but a Dayton Daily News story published in 2015 speculated the name came from a story filed in the Cincinnati Chronicle on August 18, 1845, by a reporter known as “T.” In his story “T” wrote: “The most indifferent observer will not fail to notice Dayton — it may be fairly said that Dayton is the gem of all our interior towns.”

Dayton’s motto is, “The birthplace of aviation.” Perhaps the city’s most famous resi-

dents were the Wright Brothers, Orville and Wilbur, who invented and flew the first successful airplane. The younger of the two brothers, Orville Wright, was born in 1871 in Dayton. Wilbur Wright was born in 1867 near Millville, IN. In 1882, the brothers opened a bicycle sales and repair shop in the city called the Wright Cycle Exchange, according to www.wright-brothers.org.

RTA’s ridership numbers have suffered in recent years due to lower gas prices, and other related factors. While in the process of bouncing back after the Great Recession, Policicchio said the resurgence has been

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Over the years, many Midwest cities have experienced a significant decline in their manufacturing base, which has cost people their jobs, and severely impacted local economies. Dayton was known as a General Motors town, but that changed during the recent Great Recession when GM closed its manufacturing plant there in 2008.

Policicchio said, like many other cities in the region with similar experiences, Dayton is in the process of redefining and revitalizing itself.

“There is a revitalization effort taking place in the city’s downtown area,” Policicchio said. “There is going to be a lot of investing there over the next five years.

The city is coming back.”

Doing its part in the revitalization effort, RTA is planning a new service for downtown residents, employers and visitors.

“We are getting ready to launch our downtown circulator route, which is going to be one of the new services that will connect people within the downtown area,” Policicchio said. “The service will be free. Folks can ride the bus and it will take them to major downtown destinations.”

Known as the “Gem City,” Dayton’s population is 141,527, according to www.subur-

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slow, but recently picking up steam. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are experiencing what many transit agencies industry-wide have experienced, which is a decrease in ridership,â&#x20AC;? Policicchio said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Like a lot of public transit systems, we are working to change our system and revitalize it, while introducing new services to spur more ridership. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We conducted a demographics study several years ago that indicated 65 percent of our riders were going to work. Another 15 percent were traveling to medical appointments and 10 percent were utilizing the system to go to and from educational facilities.â&#x20AC;?

STAKEHOLDER RELATIONSHIPS Policicchio said RTA takes an aggressive approach to its stakeholder relationships, which include federal, state and local government officials, human service agencies, area businesses and non-profits. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We work with and educate stakeholders about what RTA has to offer and the alternative solution it provides to people to get from point A to point B. We utilize our social media outlets to convey the services we have to offer and engage our customers in real time,â&#x20AC;?

Policicchio said.

Furthermore, RTAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s program called â&#x20AC;&#x153;SmartChoice,â&#x20AC;? allows people commuting to and from work to deduct the cost of transit passes from their taxes. A range of tax-free, commuter benefit packages are available to all area employers throughout the Miami Valley, RTA said.

Policicchio said RTA has received significant support from both local and state governments. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have a great relationship here in the region with our leaders and government officials,â&#x20AC;? Policicchio said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;They understand the return of investment that public transit provides as an economic driver, transporting people to and from their jobs.â&#x20AC;?

CUSTOMER SERVICE A PRIORITY There are many priorities in running a transit system, including ensuring the safety of riders, maintaining a fleet of vehicles, keeping on top of technologies and managing employees. At RTA, customer service is also high on the list, because, as Policicchio said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Customers are the reason why we are here.â&#x20AC;?

He added: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our philosophy is we put customers first. We put services in place, based on what they need. Our mission is to operate a dependable service, offering great value to customers. We are responsible to our riders and taxpayers. Our sole purpose is providing the safest, most reliable and accessible service that we can. We survey customers annually and gauge their feelings on different things to see what kind of improvements we can make.â&#x20AC;?

Working to meet the needs of the riding public is RTAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s staff of 667 employees, which consists of 273 regular bus operators, 83 paratransit drivers, and 100 maintenance employees, including janitors and line crew.

In addition, 211 employees work in other areas, such as dispatch, administrative offices, etc. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our employees are everything. Our philosophy is, if you treat your employees well, they will treat your customers well,â&#x20AC;? Policicchio said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;They are the frontline connection to the public. Employees are valuable in making our services better by being out there every day engaging riders. They are the best resource for making RTA successful.â&#x20AC;?

Once a person is hired, he or she tends to stay with the agency. While RTAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s retention rate is good, finding good employees can be difficult, Policicchio said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Retirements are increasing, and, like some other industries, we have an aging workforce. We are trying to attract that new generation to come in and join RTA,â&#x20AC;? Policicchio said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a trend we are seeing in a lot of areas. Hiring is definitely a challenge right now. It is not really related to

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retention, it is more the workforce is retiring and moving on, as they should.”

Perhaps no employees interact with riders more intimately than the system’s bus and paratransit drivers. Policicchio outlined what kind of person RTA is looking for to fill such critical positions.

“We have a saying, ‘We employ professional bus operators.’ The most important thing is that they are people who have respect, integrity and care about customers, and, obviously, we want folks who are also focused on providing a safe trip,” he said.

Policicchio said someone who is looking to have a career as a bus operator need not have experience as a driver of large vehicles before applying at RTA. The agency will train inexperienced new hires to obtain a CDL (commercial drivers license).

RTA’s door-to-door, ADA-certified paratransit service is called “Project Mobility.”

“Our paratransit service operates within the Montgomery County region,” Policicchio said. “One interesting fact to note is we actually provide more paratransit service in terms of riders than Cincinnati, and slightly less than Columbus. Of the four largest transit agencies in the state, we are the fourth, but when if comes to paratransit, we are third in regards to ridership.”

In discussing the future of public transportation nationwide, Policicchio said, “One thing we are finding is people want options.”

In this vein, RTA offers its bike share program called “Link” via a partnership with Bike Miami Valley.

“Out of all the bike share programs in the country, we are the first transit agency to operate and manage the bike system’s physical assets,” Policicchio said. “We work with a company called BCycle. How it works is, at one of our bike stations, a person can pay with either a credit card or a Link membership card. After paying, he or she can ride the bike between the stations we have set up throughout our downtown core area.”

RTA also bills itself as having the “greenest” fleet in Ohio, as it operates diesel, hybrid diesel and electric trolley buses.

“In helping to improve the environment and reduce congestion, public transit is a viable option, and RTA supports those two goals,” Policicchio said. “I wouldn’t say environmental issues are the overwhelming reason people use transit, but they are definitely a consideration for some people in deciding to ride the bus. There is no doubt that public transportation is a contributing factor to improving the environment and congestion, if used in the right way.”

In his role as the chief customer and business development officer, Policicchio leads the development, implementation and analysis of all marketing, ridership, planning, service and scheduling efforts of the agency. Under his leadership, the Customer and Business Development team’s focus is on fostering positive and progressive relationships with RTA employees, customers, area agencies, businesses and organizations, according to the agency’s website.

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UMA Headed To S t. L o u i s For Expo

T

he Gateway to the West, otherwise known as St. Louis, MO, is home to the 2017 United Motorcoach Association’s (UMA) Motorcoach Expo. The annual event will take place February 26 through March 2 at the America’s Center Convention Complex (Halls 4 and 5), located in downtown St. Louis. It will include a large tradeshow featuring nearly 200 exhibitors, educational seminars and many networking opportunities.

“Each year, the UMA Motorcoach Expo hosts the largest gathering of motorcoach operators in North America. This is where nearly 2,000 bus and motorcoach industry professionals proactively evaluate and purchase new products and services,” UMA President & CEO Victor Parra said. “We annually revamp the show to offer fresh attractions

and experiences for our audience. Located in the great city of St. Louis, UMA Motorcoach Expo 2017 will not disappoint. We encourage people in the bus and motorcoach industry to not miss this opportunity to strengthen their business and make an impact.”

Registration in the Plaza Lobby is open from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday, February 26, for this year’s UMA Motorcoach Expo. A complimentary shuttle service from Lambert-St. Louis International Airport to UMA host hotels will be available from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Official events begin on Sunday with eight separate sightseeing tours, taking place from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., allowing attendees an opportunity to see all that St. Louis has to offer. Additionally, the UMA State Association Summit is scheduled from 1 to 5 p.m. on Sunday.

See us at UMA Expo Booth #1412 Page 36

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Two events will conclude Sunday’s schedule, starting with the UMA Welcome Reception, held in the Regency Ballroom at the Hyatt Regency St. Louis at the Arch, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. A new UMA Expo event will follow, the Icebreaker at the City Museum in St. Louis, from 7 to 10 p.m.

Monday, February 27, starts with UMA registration from 7:30 a.m. to 6:45 p.m. in the Plaza Lobby. There will be a continental breakfast from 8 to 8:30 a.m. near America’s Ballroom in the convention hall. The ballroom itself will be the site of the UMA Expo Opening, Legislative and Regulatory Update & UMA Active Member Meeting, scheduled from 8:30 to 11 a.m.

The UMA Maintenance Interchange is scheduled for 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: n Transforming Your Business (Marketing); n What Finance Companies Need From Operators, And What They Find Instead (Finance); n Managing Multiple Locations (Operations); n Technology 101 To 301 (Technology); and, n Small Fleet Operators Session 1 — Marketing Part 1, First Day In Business, And Regulatory Update.

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 America’s Ballroom.

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

2016 Sneak Preview After-Party n

Expanding Into New Markets (Marketing); Spader Business Management-Part 1 (Finance); n Maximizing The Sale Of Your Company/Prudent Everyday Business Practices (Operations); n What’s New With SEO, SEM, Analytics And Social Media (Technology); and, n Small Fleet Operators Session 2 — Fundamentals Of Fatigue Management, Marketing Part 2, And The New Unified Carrier Registration.

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is slated for 3:15 to 4:15 p.m.: n How Much Is Too Much Online Marketing (Marketing); n Spader Business Management - Part 2 (Finance); n ELD Pitfalls (Operations); n How Technology Is Influencing The Fundamentals And Choices Of Group Travelers (Technology); and, n Small Fleet Operators Session 3 — When The Trip Goes Bad, Fuel And Tire Tax Exemptions, Marketing Part 3.

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 4 and 5.

Exhibitors will give demonstrations and showcase their latest industry products and services during the sneak preview. A ribbon cutting ceremony, in front of the Expo Hall 4 entrance, will take place from 4:15 to 4:30 p.m.

See us at UMA Expo Booth #1015 Page 38

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January/February 2017

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 following the Sneak Preview. From 7 to 10 p.m. is the UMA Expo Sneak Preview After-Party, held at the Anheuser-Busch Brewery. In a separate event, the Go Motorcoach Annual Fundraiser is also scheduled for Monday evening, following the Sneak Preview After-Party, at the Thaxton Speakeasy.

The 2017 UMA Motorcoach Expo on Tuesday, February 28, will begin at 7:30 a.m. with the UMA Maintenance Competition. This event, which will take place at the Vandalia Bus Lines’ facility, lasts until 11 a.m., and provides participants with a chance to compete against each other to solve different maintenance-related issues.

A new event this year is the UMA International Driver Competition.

It will take place Tuesday morning, at a time and site to be determined.

Tuesday’s UMA Expo registration is scheduled from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the Plaza Lobby.

Meanwhile, a continental breakfast will be located outside the concurrent solution session rooms from 8:15 to 8:45 a.m.

UMA Concurrent Solution Sessions on Tuesday will take place from 8:45 to 9:45 a.m.: n Is Your Marketing Working? How To Measure Techniques (Marketing); n How Equipment Valuations Will Influence Your Purchase Arrangement And Payment Schedule (Finance); n Best Practices For Installing 110 Outlets (Operations); n Managing Your Current Digital Presence (Technology); and, n Small Fleet Operators Session 4 — How The FLSA New Overtime Rule Will Impact Your Business.

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

Also scheduled in the exhibit hall on Tuesday are several UMA Education Sessions.

Topics and times are: n Is Your Business Ready For The ELD Mandate? (from 10:15 to 11:15 a.m.); n How To Prepare For, And What To Expect From, A DOT Audit (from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.); n Driver Recruitment And Retention: Top Priorities For A Successful Motorcoach Company (from 12:45 to 1:45 p.m.); n Verbal SWAT: Basic Tools To Defuse Conflict (from 2 to 3 p.m.); and, n What Opportunities To Expect From A Sharing Economy For The Motorcoach Industry (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.

Tuesday’s final event will be the UMA Leadership Awards Celebration, scheduled

0117Busline.FINAL_Layout 1 2/3/17 9:41 AM Page 39

from 6:30 to 11 p.m. at America’s 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 2017 UMA Motorcoach Expo is Wednesday, March 1. 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 two UMA Education Sessions in the exhibit hall. Topics and times are: n How A Successful Driver Program Can Reduce Risk, Drive Down Costs And Increase Passenger Satisfaction (from 9:15 to 10:15 a.m.); and, n Vehicle And Driver Certifications, How To Improve Your Margins, And How To Save Fuel, Save Money And Gain Marketshare (from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.).

Meanwhile, the UMA Member Bus Operations Site Visit is scheduled from 12:15 to 2:30 p.m. at the Vandalia Bus Lines’ facility.

A complimentary shuttle service from UMA host hotels to the Lambert-St. Louis International Airport is available from 2 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday.

Wednesday will conclude with the “Tourism Rocks At Hard Rock Cafe St. Louis” event, scheduled from 9:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m.

The 13th Annual Ray Dupuis Memorial Golf Tournament is scheduled from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Thursday, March 2, at the Stonewolf Golf Club, located in Fairview Heights, IL. Meanwhile, a complimentary shuttle service from UMA host hotels to the Lambert-St. Louis International Airport will be offered from 4 to 11 a.m.

Visit www.motorcoachexpo.com for more information.

2017 UMA EXPO EXHIBIT HALL HOURS

February 27 - March 1 Monday, Sneak Preview, 4:30 to 6:45 p.m.

Tuesday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Wednesday, 9 a.m. - Noon

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Dates, times and events are subject to change.

See us at UMA Expo Booth #1610 January/February 2017

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PEOPLE IN THE NEWS

MCI’s Pat Ziska Receives 2017 Women In Buses Award Pat Ziska, vice president of new coach sales for MCI, was honored with a Women in Buses Award during the American Bus Association (ABA) Marketplace in Cleveland for her, “industry knowledge, pioneering leadership and personal touch,” according to a press release.

Ziska began her career 40 years ago for Hausman Bus Sales, a preowned coach and service center operation, based in Chicago. At the time, Hausman was also the exclusive U.S. distributor of “brandnew” MCI motorcoaches.

“Her proficiency in shorthand and personality got her the job.

Her drive, confidence and genuine care for motorcoach operators, got her to her top role in today’s industry.”

From the administrative post at Hausman, Ziska put herself through college, earning a B.A.

Pat Ziska

degree, and then began her career in customer service and marketing.

MCI bought Hausman in the 1980s. By 1997, she had become the first woman vice president at MCI. She was named vice president of customer relations in 2001, and in 2012, vice president of new coach sales.

Patrick Scully, MCI executive vice president of sales and marketing said, “MCI salutes Pat on receiving this prestigious and well-

deserved award. We’re proud of her accomplishments at MCI and dedication to helping customers.

Pat has always believed customer needs and passenger desires come first.”

“Other highlights in Ziska’s career include: • In 1996, Ziska led the launch of MCI’s Renaissance coach at the ABA meeting in Hawaii. The Renaissance paved the way for the MCI J4500 coach, launched in 2001; • Ziska helped launch the Motorcoach Council in 2007; • In 2008, Ziska established the ABA’s Green Spirit Award as a way to recognize operators promoting the environmental benefits of motorcoach travel, and MCI’s green tool-kit for operates to use to promote their efforts to passengers and clients alike.”

Ziska is starting her fifth decade in the business. MCI said she is admired by all women who work at MCI for her position, open-door approachability and judgment in business and in life.

Ziska has raised her four children while pursuing her career. Her three sons have started families and are pursuing careers in business. Her youngest, Kaitlyn, is a freshman at Iowa State University majoring in engineering.

The Women in Buses award recognizes the role of women in the motorcoach industry who work collaboratively on issues and concerns of women business leaders as well as industry specific trends.

Visit www.mcicoach.com or www.newflyer.com.

Prevost Names Directors Of New Coach Sales Prevost has promoted two veteran employees to lead new coach sales for the company’s recently created Eastern Region and Western Region. Responsibility has been divided for the North American market under the leadership of National Sales Vice President Jack Forbes.

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can play in addressing traffic and air quality concerns, particularly in the western United States.

Visit www.prevostcar.com for more information.

From Temsa/CH Bus Sales:

Grundman Promoted To Director Of Marketing Glen Gendron

Keith Hayward

Glen Gendron and Keith Hayward have been named directors of new coach sales, Eastern Region and Western Region, respectively.

Gendron has worked for Prevost for more than 20 years, and was most recently the director of preowned coach sales. He began his career in parts sales in 1996. Over the years, he has also worked as a regional parts sales manager and as a product expert in the Prevost manufacturing facility in SainteClaire, Quebec, Canada.

Hayward has nine years experience as a regional sales manager with Prevost.

“The market for our coaches is different in each region, and in these roles, we’ll be able to better focus on the specific needs of our customers and sales managers,” Hayward said.

Before joining Prevost, Hay ward worked as a sales manager and sales trainer in the pharmaceutical industry. Hayward said he was attracted to the motorcoach industry because of the key role it

Michaela Grundman has been promoted to director of marketing at CH Bus Sales.

“Grundman continues to focus on enhancing the CH Bus Sales and TEMSA brands, and now also coordinates all customer and tradeshow networking events. She works closely with the sales team and after-market support team,” said CH Bus Sales.

“Grundman first joined the company in June 2013 as a marketing manager. Her role, over the last three years, has allowed her to gain a better understanding of the motorcoach industry and how operators make coach purchasing

Michaela Grundman

decisions. She has excelled at strengthening the Temsa customer base and in networking with new customers to build a strong partnership for the future.”

CH Bus Sales, LLC, is the exclusive distributor of Temsa motorcoaches in the United States and Canada, offering new and preowned coach sales as well as aftermarket support in warranty, technical assistance, parts, service & maintenance.

Visit www.chbussales.com for more information.

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From ABC Companies:

Two New Van Hool CX35s For James River Bus Lines Stephen Story, president of Richmond,VA-based James River Bus Lines said the company was founded in 1928. In the 1950s, Storyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s father, Woody Story, returned from service in the Navy, and took a job at the bus line. He became the general manager, and in 1972, he purchased the business. In the 1970s, James River was primarily a charter and tour company.

Stephen Story started working in the company in 1980, just out of high school. While earning a degree from University of Richmond, he also drove buses and worked in the garage and in management. By 1984 he was general manager.

Woody Story still comes in, but turned management over to Stephen Story in 1990.

Half the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s charter business evaporated following

9/11, Stephen Story said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Despite the financial crises caused by 9/11 and the recession in 2008, we did not cut our staff, or change their pay.â&#x20AC;?

He diversified the company, and became less dependent on a single segment of the market. James River Bus Line became James River Transportation. It provides

ground transportation at both the Richmond and Norfolk airports, and works with organizations, including corporate, military, schools and colleges, wedding parties, religious congregations, hospitals, and government.

The company handles about 8,500 charters and 29,000 airport runs each year,. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We hired a person to do nothing but customer service training,â&#x20AC;?

Story said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all in how you treat people.â&#x20AC;?

Today, 99.5 percent of its customers give the company the highest rating possible. It operates a fleet of more than 90 vehicles, and has recently taken delivery of two new Van Hool CX35s. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have a lot of expertise in operating mini-buses,â&#x20AC;? said Story, â&#x20AC;&#x153;but our motorcoach customers were looking for smaller coaches, with the same qualities as our 45-foot coaches. The CX35 was the right size and fit in well with our luxury fleet in terms of ride and amenities.â&#x20AC;?

The 38-passenger coaches are equipped with entertainment systems with 15-inch video monitors, as well as 110 volt and USB outlets. They also have Van Hool safety features including 3-point seatbelts, backup cameras, lane departure warning, antilock brakes, tire pressure monitoring, fire suppression systems, automatic stability control, daytime running lights, curbside lighting and adaptive static aiming lights.

Visit www.abc-companies.com.

Vic Parra, UMA President/CEO, To Retire UMA President/CEO Vic Parra will retire effective March 31.

Vic Parra

The association will celebrate Parraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 18 year tenure and accomplishments during the 2017 UMA Motorcoach EXPO in St. Louis, MO, February 26 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; March 2.

Associates and friends are asked to join in thanking Parra for his leadership and friendship.

UMA said it will use a search firm for the new president/CEO. Visit www.uma.org.

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Queen’s Award Presented To Camira

Award following previous wins for sustainable development and innovation.

The presentation ceremony was attended by about 100 of the company’s 700-person workforce, which is located at sites in England and Lithuania.

Textile manufacturer Camira Group was presented with a Queen’s Award for Enterprise in International Trade on January 16, 2017, by the Vice Lord Lieutenant of West Yorkshire, UK, Tim Hare, recognizing the company’s sustained growth in overseas markets over the past six years.

The ceremony took place at Camira’s woollen yarn spinLeft to right, are Camira CEO Grant Russell, ning plant in Birkby, Tim Hare, Camira Director of Sales for Asia Huddersfield, UK, Pacific Brigitte Heimrath, and Camira Production Manager Richard Hutchinson. with Hare presenting a cut-glass rose bowl The company said, “The to Camira’s Director of Sales for Camira Yarns spinning mill repreAsia Pacific Brigitte Heimrath, sents the start of the textile manuand Production Manager Richard facturing process, and has been Hutchinson. instrumental in developing enviHeimrath had earlier attended a ronmental yarns which go into reception at Buckingham Palace fabrics made from blends of in London, together with Director wool, nettles, hemp and flax.” of European Sales Reiner Rupp.

Visit www.camirafabrics.com.

This is Camira’s fifth Queen’s

EFFICIENCY. RELIABILITY. COMFORT. COUNT ON CARLYLE FOR BIG BENEFITS BY THE BUSLOAD.

Known as the industry’s workhorse, Carlyle’s 05G is designed to lower engine horsepower drain for reliability and fuel savings, all while ensuring greater passenger comfort. Just another reason why the transportation industry can count on Carlyle.

For more information, please visit us online at carlylecompressor.com. © Carrier Corporation 2016

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IRIZAR DELIVERIES Omar Orozco, founder and president of Professional Charter Ser vices, located in San Francisco, CA, recently took delivery of three new Irizar i6 luxury motorcoaches.

sprinter vans, and two Cadillac Escalades.

Fernando Medina, president of Medina Tours and Charters Inc., of San Jose, CA, added two new 2016 Irizar i6 coaches to his fleet (integral chassis built in Spain).

Medina Tours and Charter operates a mixed fleet of 19 vans, buses, and coaches for charter and contract work in the Silicon valley.

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Irizar i6 has European curb appeal and aerodynamic design, incorporating systems and components such as lane departure warning system, acceleration skid control, aluminum wheels, seats with foot rests and more. The 56-passenger coaches are equipped with WiFi, USB and 110V plug outlets, three-point safety belts, leather seats and individual A/C,â&#x20AC;? said Irizar.

Professional Charter Services currently operates eight motorcoaches, seven cutaway buses, two

CHARTER

L Fernando Medina

Family owned, Medina Tours and Charters said it was attracted to INA Bus Sales and the Irizar brand, in part, because of the family ownership and personalized support, as well as the curb appeal and ride quality of the Irizar i6.

Visit www.irizar.com/usa/

avatory dump hopper is assembled and ready to install in your existing sewer system. Its cover plate is easily rolled back with the remover tool. Each of your service lanes can easily be equipped with this time-saving unit, which has been the industry standard for over thirty years. All major credit cards accepted.

Call 1-866-LAV-DUMP or email lavdump@yahoo.com for additional information.

Washroom waste is removed quickly, easily and safely

HUDSON RIVER CORPORATION Call toll free: 1-866-LAV-DUMP | Fax: 1-201-420-3322

www.lavdump.com

January/February 2017

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TRANSPORTATION

INSURANCE SINCE 1952

SERVICE INSURANCE AGENCY, LLC

CCW Begins Bus Delivery To Cerritos, CAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s First Group Complete Coach Works (CCW) has begun delivery of buses to First Group for the city of Cerritos, CA. The contract, which calls for the rehabilitation of five buses, was awarded earlier this year. Two of the five buses have been completed and delivered to Cerritos.

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s #HARTER s 4RANSIT s 3CHOOL s ,IMO s !UTO ,IABILITY s 0HYSICAL $AMAGE s 7ORKERS #OMPENSATION s %ASY 0AYMENT 0LANS The work varied from bus to bus depending on the initial inspection.

Buses are inspected for repairs while other parts are already scheduled for replacement. Some of the components being replaced include engines, transmissions, suspension parts, radiators, batteries, power steering pumps, surge tanks, and exhaust components.

CCW General Sales Manager Kevin Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Brien said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is very important that transit properties keep their buses reliable and in good condition. We are very appreciative that First Group has chosen us to be the ones to help maintain their high standard.â&#x20AC;?

CCW has more than 28 years of service in the transportation industry.

,OCAL 4OLL &REE &!8 % -AIL TOBRYAN SERVICEINS COM Tim Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Bryan %XT

Visit our web site: serviceins.com

Visit www.completecoach.com or call 800-300-3751 for more information.

Transportationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Strongest Step

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0117Busline.FINAL_Layout 1 2/3/17 9:41 AM Page 47

Houston Metro Awards MCI 3-Year Contract With Options For 169 Commuter Coaches The Board of Directors for Houston-based METRO (Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County) has awarded MCI a new three-year contract for 139 Commuter Coaches, including 10 options per year for a total of 169 coaches. The contract has an approximate total value of $84 million. The 169 coaches from this order were included in New Flyerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fourth quarter backlog.

The new METRO contract follows orders in 2014, 2015 and 2016 contracts for a total of 105 MCI coaches delivered.

METRO's new coaches replace older models for an upgrade of its commuter express services. The coaches are equipped with wheelchair lifts, seats with threepoint passenger seatbelts and baggage bay slide-out bike racks.

The MCI Commuter Coach, which is Buy America-compliant and Altoona-tested, is designed for express service and highway speeds. It has a semi-monocoque structure which elevates passengers and drivers above traffic. In addition to seat belts, safety features include Electronic Stability Control (ESC), tire pressure monitoring and a fire suppression system.

METRO and MCI have had a relationship since 2001. Over the past 16 years, the system has purchased 391 MCI Commuter Coaches. This includes 122 coaches with a diesel-electric hybrid propulsion system.

Houston METRO operates an integrated transit system that includes light rail, local bus paratransit, HOV/HOT lanes and 25 Park & Ride lots.

Visit www.mcicoach.com and www.newflyer.com for more information.

January/February 2017

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ARI-HETRA 12775 Randolph Ridge Ln. Manassas, VA 20109 USA 703-359-6265, 800-562-3250 Website: 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 Website: www.grayusa.com

Products: Gray Manufacturing designs, manufactures, sells and services 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 Hwy 134 Pinckard, AL 36371 USA 866-624-2872

Email: sales@maha-usa.com Website: 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

The MotorCoach Tower Washâ&#x201E;˘ $! + 0+. + $ $ + +3!.Ĺ? /$Ä´Ĺ?/5/0!)Ĺ?$ /Ĺ? !!* 0$ $!Ĺ? %* 1/00.5Ĺ?(! !. %* %*Ĺ?" /0Ĺ? * Ĺ?! +*+)% (Ĺ? 1/Ĺ?3 /$%*#Ĺ?"+ +.Ĺ?

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0117Busline.FINAL_Layout 1 2/3/17 9:41 AM Page 49

Mohawk Lifts See Ad At Right 65 Vrooman Ave., P. O. Box 110 Amsterdam, NY 12010 USA 800-833-2006 Email: info@mohawklifts.com Website: www.mohawklifts.com Company Officers: Steve Perlstein, Sales & Marketing Manager; Ray Pedrick, Assistant Sales Manager Products: Mohawk Lifts manufactures vehicle lifts ranging from 7,000 to 240,000 pound capacities. Mohawk’s product lines include two post, four post, mobile columns and parallelograms, and are all designed, welded and manufactured in the U.S.A. Contact Mohawk for any technical questions, fleet evaluation or CAD shop design assistance. 17 Omer North America Inc. 2300 Speers Rd. Oakville, Ontario L6L 2X8 CANADA 877-799-5438 Website: 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 hotdipped 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 Dr. Madison, IN 47250 USA 800-640-5438 Email: userlink@rotarylift.com Website: www.rotarylift.com Company Officer: David Fischmer, Marketing Director Products: Rotary® Lift offers a line of heavy-duty vehicle lifts. The line includes mobile column, modular inground, scissor, parallelogram and four-post lifts. Rotary has reinvented the popular wireless mobile column lift to make it even faster and more powerful for lifting any bus. The new Mach™Flex powered by RedFire™ wireless mobile column lifting system puts the ability to lift more than 150,000 pounds in technicians’ hands with a patent-pending remote control. Using the remote control lets the technician move around the vehicle

while operating the lift from anywhere in the bay for maximum visibility and flexibility. Each MCH19 FLEX mobile column can lift up to 18,800 pounds, for a total of 150,400 pounds with a set of eight.

More than 1,100 MOD Series lifts have been installed since the product’s introduction in 2002. Rotary Lift’s patented universal style lifting saddles make inground lifts’ set-up faster and easier. Rotary is a Vehicle Service Group (VSG) brand. Its American headquarters and manufacturing facilities are in Madison, IN. 17 SEFAC, Inc. 23 Fontana Ln., Suite 109 Baltimore, MD 21237 USA 443-730-1023 Website: www.slec.com Products: 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, MD. 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 non-scheduled 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 Email: lifts@stertil-koni.com Website: www.stertil-koni.com 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 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 also offers a Reverse Rolloff Protection option for the company’s vertical rise heavy-duty platform vehicle lifting system, SKYLIFT. Stertil-Koni is headquartered in Stevensville, MD, and has expanded its U.S. production facilities in Streator, IL. 16 January/February 2017

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Amaya-Astron Seating See Ad On Page 10 Pirules 16E, Complejo Ind. Cuamatla CuautitlĂĄn Izcalli, 54730 MEXICO +52(55)5881-2007 Email: 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-220, GT, A-2TEN and Torino G Plus provide the latest in ergonomic technology and passenger safety, fulfilling the FMVSS and CMVSS standards for 3-point seat belts seats. The newest models, the A220 and GT, provide more legroom because of their 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.

Seats also have a large list of options and accessories available to meet and exceed customersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; 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 USB/110V outlets. AmayaAstron also offers luxury seating options as the 2+1 seats. For sales and service inquiries in the U.S. and Canada, contact George Farrell, email: gfarr007@aol.com; or Bob Greene, email: bgreene45@cox.net. 17

See us at UMA Expo Booth #618 Page 50

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January/February 2017

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 changing needs of customers. Manufacturers of 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

0117Busline.FINAL_Layout 1 2/3/17 9:42 AM Page 51

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 have parts for American, Amaya, Van Hool and Wakefield seats also.

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. Â

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 #1517

0117Busline.FINAL_Layout 1 2/3/17 9:42 AM Page 52

Bergen Auto Upholstery Co., Inc. See Ad On Page 56 375 North St., Suite U Teterboro, NJ 07608 USA 201-457-9100 Email: bergenauto@aol.com Website: www.bergenseat.com Products: Seat replacement and complete interior refurbishing, including seat covers, ceilings, sidewalls, lav area, under racks, dash and 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 At Bottom Right 2476 Waldorf Court, NW Grand Rapids, MI 49544 USA 616-288-0655 Email: camira-usa@camirafabrics.com Website: www.camirafabrics.com Company Officers: Grant Russell, Chief Executive; Rune Akselberg, President, Camira Group Inc.

Products: Global textile manufacturer, Camira 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, vinyls, leathers and a wide range of ancillary interior trim fabrics for other surfaces within motorcoaches. Transportation fabric collections include Atom, Aura, Fusion, Vigor, and Vita. Added fabric protection comes from Defender, Camira’s triple action, long-lasting fabric treatment which has an invisible protective shield making fabrics antibacterial, anti-fungal and anti-stain.

As well as an extensive portfolio of stocked ranges from motorcoach interiors, Camira has an in-house design team that can develop something more bespoke, adding personality and flair to any vehicle interior. Whether a stocked range or custom-made, Camira’s transport fabrics are designed to coordinate with a wide range of other options including leather and vinyl, as well as trim options for piping, headrests, wall

MANUFACTURING THE HIGHEST QUALITY MANUFACTURING MANUFA QUALITY COACH COACH SEATS SEATS IN THE USA USA SINCE 2009

side and ceiling finishes, and curtaining to provide flexible options for combination seats using more than one material type. Camira is represented by Wagner & Associates (Phone: 919-552-4466) and Transportation Products Sales and Service (Phone: 724-640-8826). 17 Chestnut Ridge Foam, Inc. 443 Warehouse Dr., P. O. Box 781 Latrobe, PA 15650-0781 USA 724-537-9000 Email: info@chestnutridgefoam.com Website: ww.chestnutridgefoam.com Products: SAFGUARD XL fireresistant 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 cushion-

ing durability and comfort.

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, Inc. 13145 NW 45th Ave. Opalocka, FL 33054 USA 305-685-9651 Email: mnovick@cmiautomotive.com Website: www.cmi-enterprises.com Company Officers: Michael Novick, CEO; Jorge Canamero, Pres.

Products: CMI offers a complete line of interior soft trim materials and value added services consisting of fabrics, leather, vinyl and urethane coated products. In addition, CMI offers lamination, die and computerized cutting, perforating, RF emboss/deboss and various

A new Vision for transport fabrics.

Visit us at the UMA Motorcoach EXPO, booth 629, to see Vision, our new collection of ÁDW ZRYHQ SHUIRUPDQFH SRO\HVWHU IDEULFV IRU WUDQVSRUW LQWHULRUV

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KIEL KIEL SEATS SEATS NORTH NORTH A AMERICA MERICA LLC LLC 451 4519 9W Wyland yland D Drive rive | E Elkhart, lkhart, IIN N4 46516 6516 - U USA SA P Phone: hone: + +1-574-293-3600 1-574-293-3600 | F Fax: ax : + +1-574-293-3655 1-574-293-3655 Email: o office@kielna.com ffice@kielna.com Web: www.kielna.com See us at UMA Expo Booth #313 Page 52

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January/February 2017

See us at UMA Expo Booth #629

0117Busline.FINAL_Layout 1 2/3/17 9:42 AM Page 53

other custom fabrication services on a just-in-time basis from locations in Elkhart, IN; Forest City, NC, and Miami, FL. CMI has been servicing the bus industry, together with other transportation sectors since 1984, and will be opening a new vinyl manufacturing facility in its North Carolina location during the first half of 2017 to provide made in the USA material. 17 De Leo Transportation Fabrics See Ad Below 53 Dwight Pl. Fairfield, NJ 07004 USA 973-439-6801 Email: deleotf@deleotf.com Website: www.deleotf.com Company Officers: Craig DeLeo, Chief Executive Officer; Ismail Arslan, Vice President of Business Development Products: De Leo Transportation (DLT) 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 manufacturing partner Epengle Tekstil, DLT

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

With 100-plus years combined, 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 international FR requirements as well as FMVSS302. Specialty and custom design work is available to fit customer needs, along with anti-bacterial, stain repellant and water proofing finishes. DeLeo provides short production lead times, New Jerseybased customer service and on-time deliveries. Warehousing in South Carolina offers quick shipping and easy logistics.

Visit www.deleoTF.com to view DeLeoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 2016 stock program and new flat woven collection. 17 Fabric Services 103 Hinsdale Farms Rd. Bristol, IN 46507 USA 574-848-5100

Website: www.fabserv.com Products: Fabric Services is a provider of many fabrics, leather, coated fabrics and flat-woven 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 Email: jp.paonessa@freedmanseating.com Website: www.freedmanseating.com Products: Seats and seating related products for many different applications. Product lines include small to mid-size bus, motorcoach, rail, marine, delivery truck, para-transit, specialty and commercial vehicle seating. 16 Kiel Seats North America LLC See Ad On Page 52 4519 Wyland Dr., Elkhart, IN 46516 USA Phone: 574-293-3600 Email: office@kielna.com Website: www.kielna.com

Products: Kiel Seats North Amer ica is part of the international Kiel Group, a manufacturer of transit seating systems for commercial vehicles and public transportation, including buses on the local, regional, and intercity level. 17 LaFrance Industries 290 Old Anderson Rd. LaFrance, SC 29656 USA 864-646-3213, 551-482-1608 Email: interiors@jeffgoldwasser.com Company Officers: Judson Boehmer, Pres.; Jeff Goldwasser, Sales Products: U.S. made plush and flat woven seat fabrics for transit, rail and coach seats and interiors. 17 Lantal Textiles, Inc. See Ad On Page 54 1300 Langenthal Dr., P. O. Box 965 Rural Hall, NC 27045 USA 800-334-3309 Email: timl@lantaltextiles.com Products: Supplier of flat woven fabric to the bus, rail and aviation markets. Manufactured in North Carolina, Lantalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fabrics meet or exceed the specifications required by the industry as well as Buy America

See us at UMA Expo Booth #1521 January/February 2017

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for the transit market. Free design services. Visit UMA booth 812. 17 Lazzerini Corporation See Ad On Page 50 1011 Herman St.

Elkhart, IN 46516 USA 574-206-4769 Email: franco.paganuzzi@lazzerini.us Website: www.lazzerini.us Company Officers: Franco Paganuzzi, Sales Director; Rocco

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

BERGEN AUTO UPHOLSTERY

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 #812 Page 54

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January/February 2017

Carbone, Operations Manager Products: Lazzerini Corporation is a U.S. based subsidiary of Italian seating company, Lazzerini S.r.l. Founded in 1967, Lazzerini, S.r.l. designs and manufactures innovative and lightweight passenger seats for the global mass transit markets with localized operations in UK, Europe, Hong Kong, New Zealand and Canada. In 2015, Lazzerini Corp. was established in Elkhart, IN, and is manufacturing /supplying buy-America compliant seats.

Lazzerini is known and respected for its ability and know-how in the intelligent use of latest technology materials, to create standard flexible seating platforms combined with fully modular construction.

This allows for easy customization, installation, maintenance and efficient vehicle packaging that optimizes passenger â&#x20AC;&#x153;living spaceâ&#x20AC;? and vehicle seating capacity. 17 National Seating Co./CVG 200 National Dr. Vonore, TN 37885 USA 800-222-7328 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 companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Vonore, TN, facility. 13 RECARO North America 4120 Luella Ln. Auburn Hills, MI 48326 USA

248-484-3203 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 Sardo Bus & Coach Upholstery See Ad On Page 25 503 S. Main Ave. Minneola, FL 34715 USA 352-242-1313 Email: sandy@sardobus.com Website: www.sardobus.com Company Officers: Lou Sardo, Pres.; Sandy Follis, Pres./Sales; Kathy Cruse, National Sales Mgr. Products: Provider of upholstery and flooring replacement/refurbishment to the motorcoach industry.

From a single replacement seat cover, to complete interior refurbishments for multiple coaches, Sardo has a solution for customer needs.

Upholstery products include seat covers, sidewalls, center headliners, modesties and more. Uses the finest quality fabrics and offers a variety of innovative styles, color combinations and patterns utilizing fine quality wool, poly blends, vinyl/leathers.

Sardo can install a brand new complete flooring, and in most cases can provide repairs on existing flooring. It offers installation at the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Los Angeles factory or customers can receive expert installation from Sardoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s professional Original Mobile Road Crews at their facility. These crews travel across the nation and do the installation at a customerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s location, minimizing down time and providing the opportunity to give attention to every detail. Sardo also has a mail out service with easy installation instructions if customers prefer to do the work themselves. 17 Willingham Inc. See Ad On Page 51 20008 244th Ave. S.E., Maple Valley, WA 98038 USA 425-432-9867 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

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Glaval Bus

Glaval Bus

Glaval Legacy

Glaval Apollo

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 ADA-compliant paratransit options. Also available with rear luggage, overhead and under floor storage, the Legacy has the versatility to fit all transportation needs. Now also available in 42foot length.

When a specialty bus with maximum capacity is needed, Glaval’s Apollo has customers covered. Built on the heavy-duty Freightliner MB65 chassis, this front engine vehicle is powered by the versatile Cummins 6.7L ISB diesel engine and ever-reliable Allison Transmission. Numerous floorplan layouts and hundreds of custom options make the Apollo a necessity for any university campus, airport shuttle, prisoner transport, or private touring company.

Seating is available up to 45 passengers, and the optional ADA-compliant equipment makes it perfect for specialized transit routes. Whether seeking a different look, better layout or customized interior, the Apollo has it covered. Its flexibility and price point is just what a transportation service is looking for in today’s market.

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

Model ............................................................................................Glaval Legacy Seating Capacity ....................................................................................45 Max Length........................................................................32’, 35’, 37’, 40’ and 42’ 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

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

Model .............................................................................................Glaval Apollo Seating Capacity ...................................................................................45 Max. Length.......................................................................................................28’—40’ Width...............................................................................................96” and 102” Height ............................................................................................128” and 132” Engine..............................................................................Cummins 6.7L Diesel Transmission..................................Allison 220 PTS w/Park Pawl 5-Speed Chassis..................................................................................Freightliner MB65 Air Conditioning .............................Carrier/MCC, ACC, Trans Air, and ACT Wheelchair Option.................................................Accommodates up to 14 Steering ......................................................................................Tilt/Telescopic Suspension ........................................................Front Spring, Rear Air Ride January/February 2017

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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 IShift 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 X3-45 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 2017

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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 industry leading low total cost of operation. This year, MCI unveils the latest generation of EPA 2017 Cummins ISX and Detroit DD13 engines, a new Parker-Vansco multiplexing system and an upgraded ProHeat X45 auxiliary heater.

In addition, to its BMW USA designed good looks, the J4500 turning radius stands at 40 feet, 11 inches, with the standard passive rear tag — tight enough to maneuver more easily on congested city streets and parking lots. A Bendix braking system delivers car-like control, along with the optional Bendix Wingman Advanced, a collision mitigation system.

Passenger comfort is enhanced with new luxury upholstered Amaya A-220 seats that have a thinner back for more per-passenger cabin space. Sleek Kiel seats are available as an option, along with an enhanced REI entertainment system for premium sound and HDMI tour guide connectivity. Optional 110-volt power outlets and Wi-Fi systems from SinglePoint or Saucon are also available from MCI. Drivers will continue to appreciate the improved ventilation, fan controls and additional legroom in the driver cockpit.

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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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 D-Series is North America’s best selling coach.

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....................................................................50.75 ft.; 44.70 ft.

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

MCI® Commuter Coach

Setra S 417 TC

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 perseat 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 German-built Setra S 417, now with more choices including an optional second door; 2-1, or reversible executive 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. A redesigned front fascia and improved rear styling make the model a stunner for 2017. Other interior upgrades include Harmonia rosewood flooring and Makassar wood rear lavatory walls. Additionally, the Setra S 407 Comfort Class arrives with significantly more curb appeal, featuring exterior and interior finishes similar to the Setra S 417, and at a superior value.

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....................................................................50.75 ft.; 44.70 ft.

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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ABC Companies

ABC Companies

Van Hool TX Motorcoach With its retooled chassis design, the Van Hool 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 classs by itself, delivering high traveling style across North America.

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

Van Hool CX45 Motorcoach The Van Hool C-coach model has been a staple of North American fleets for 15 years, and has consistently delivered reliability and versatility to fleets while providing the luxury customers have come to expect. The CX45 offers a new interior and exterior design that integrates a host of new safety features, with the added bonus of increased mechanical serviceability.

The CX series is available in 35- and 45-foot models, and 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 45foot 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 who already run the Van Hool CX45 in their fleets, the need for driver and mechanic training is greatly mitigated.

ABC Companies; 1506 30th Street, NW; Faribault, MN 55021 USA; 507-334-1871 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 (450HP) EPA 2013—Standard Cummins ISX 12.9 (425HP) 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 60

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Model...........................................................................................Van Hool CX45 Seating Capacity...........................56 Passenger with 3 point seat belts Length ...............................................................................................................45’ Width ...............................................................................................................102” Height ............................................................................................................11’ 6” Engine ...........................Detroit Diesel DD13 (450HP) EPA 2013—Standard Cummins ISX 12.0 (425HP) 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-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 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 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 (345HP) 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 an 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.

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-theart, integrated heating and air conditioning systems with upper and lower controls at each level, provide a comfortable environment for all the 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 (425HP) EPA 2013 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 January/February 2017

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ABC Companies

Temsa

Temsa TS 30 Van Hool TD925—Skydeck Skydeck double-deck coaches are currently offered by ABC Companies. They combine the best of two worlds by offering a great higher level view for passengers on the upper deck, while the enclosed lower deck and the coach itself retains standard Van Hool features and parts commonality.

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

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 is constructed from stainless steel 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 Website: www.chbussales.com

Model.......................................................................Van Hool TD925–Skydeck Seating Capacity ...........................................................................Customized Length................................................................................................44’ 4-9/32” Width ...............................................................................................................102” Height ....................................................................................................13’ 1-1/16” Engine .................................................Cummins ISX 12.0 (425HP) EPA 2013 Transmission....................................................ZF Astronic or Allison B500 Chassis ..................................................Stainless Steel Lower Body Frame Air Conditioning ....................................................Integrated HVAC System Steering................................................................ZF Variable Ratio Steering Suspension............................Independent Front & Tag Axle Suspension 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 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 17 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 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 17 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 2017

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ADVERTORIAL

Koro-Trans™ Astra Flor™ Safety Flooring

Irizar Domestically Produced Bus Flooring System

By Profusion Industries

Irizar i6 INA Bus Sales is the exclusive U.S. distributor of the new Irizar i6 motorcoach. The 128-year-old company was excited to partner with North American’s INA Bus Sales. Irizar has manufacturing facilities in Spain, Morocco, Brazil, Mexico and South Africa, making it one of the largest global bus manufacturers in the world.

The Irizar i6 has European curb appeal and a clean aerodynamic design, incorporating systems and components focusing on passenger safety. The Irizar i6 is equipped with lane departure warning systems, acceleration skid control, and 3 point safety belts to provide great safety features. The 56-seat Irizar i6 is built for maximum passenger comfort including individual air conditioning and lighting, armrest and footrest, seat back table, magazine rack, flat screen monitors, Wi-Fi and 110v outlets at every seat.

The Irizar i6 is also built to reduce fuel consumption with the newest Cummins Diesel technology, appropriately matched with the 6-speed Allison transmission. Irizar strives to be the best-in-class in fuel economy for the luxury motorcoach sector. For those who desire a true European coach featuring the sleek European design, while avoiding cumbersome systems, the Spanish-built Irizar i6, distributed and serviced by INA Bus Sales, is the right choice.

INA Bus Sales; 5410 Cameron St., No. 203; Las Vegas, NV 89118 Phone: 702-431-0707; Email: mbarrett@inabussales.com Website: www.inabussales.com Model........................................................................................................Irizar i6 Seating Capacity.............................................................................................56 Length ...............................................................................................................45’ Width ...............................................................................................................102” Height ....................................................12.23 feet/12.89 feet (super cargo) Engine ............................................................................................Cummins ISX Type of fuel................................................................................................Diesel Chassis .........................................................................................Irizar integral Air Conditioning..................................................................Hispacold (HVAC) Wheelchair Lift Option .........................................................................Masats Steering .............................................................................................................ZF Suspension........................................................................................................ZF Page 64

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Astra Flor™ Safety Flooring shares all the outstanding performance features of Profusion Industries’ other flooring options plus it has enhanced slip resistance and an attractive metal flake appearance. Astra Flor™ can be installed on wood, metal or composite subfloors.

When compared with competitive products: • Astra Flor™ is easier to clean because it achieves a high coefficient of friction without mop snagging materials embedded in the material surface; • Astra Flor™ abrasion resistance makes it ideal for paratransit applications and wheelchairs; and, • The Astra Flor™ System includes Step Treads and Nosing components that are manufactured to last the life of the vehicle. Available in matching designs, paired flooring and step tread components unify the appearance of a fleet.

Astra Flor™ was designed to meet the aesthetic requirements of the Motorcoach, Shuttle, and Transit bus industries, while still providing a ribbed center aisle, desired by many bus operators. Astra Flor™ is the only system able to deliver the smooth side, rib aisle type of flooring layout. An additional service to Profusion Industries’ customers is its unique capability to provide flooring that is factory welded, cut to specific length/shape and ready to install upon arrival.

Whether a customer requires a ribbed center aisle or an all smooth design, Profusion Industries offers a great quality, domestically-manufactured product. Stop by Profusion Industries’ booth #508 at the 2017 UMA Expo to see Astra Flor™.

Additional information can be found at www.profusionindustries.com/products_astra_flor.php, or contact the Profusion Industries’ sales team at 800-938-2858 for more information.

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CH Bus Sales And Temsa Open New Full-Service Location In Pinebrook, NJ CH Bus Sales, LLC has opened a new full service motorcoach sales, maintenance and repair facility in Pinebrook, NJ. The facility is located at 57 Route 46 East in Pinebrook, 30 miles northwest of Manhattan, NY, and about 25 miles northwest of Newark (NJ) Liberty International Airport.

“This new facility offers sales of new and pre-owned coaches with a fully stocked retail parts center that will be staffed with expertise to support and service all makes and models of motorcoaches,” said a company spokesperson.

Duane Geiger, executive vice president of sales & service, said, “We are proud to be expanding into our fourth full-service facility as Temsa’s exclusive distributor. This full-service location is our first in the Northeast Region and we are happy to offer our Temsa customers, as well as other operators the maintenance and repair support that they have come to except in our industry.”

Tony Mongiovi, vice president of sales & service in the Northeast said, “Our staff and I are veterans of the industry and understand the urgency associated with a coach being out of service. If you own one coach or a fleet of hundreds, this new, strategically located facility, will assist in keeping your vehicles up and running.”

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

Visit www.chbussales.com or www.temsa.com for more information.

STER REGI WIN TO ED 4K CURVD TV H

S OW SPEH CIAL S

WHAT IS OUR FORMULA FOR SUCCESS? ODOR CONTROL SOLUTIONS • Global Sanitation Manufacturer • Industrial Strength products • Freight Paid program • Proven Performance products • Bio “Green” toilet treatment

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 Stop by our booth and see the new exciting things we have to offer.

See us at UMA Expo Booth #1410

Please call ahead!

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Insurance Agency

See us at UMA Expo Booth #1819

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See us at UMA Expo Booths #1 and #135

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Saves fuel.

Wastes the competition.

The Volvo 9700 makes productivity a priority, with superb handling, minimal maintenance and superior uptime. Now with a choice of transmission integrated with the power of a Volvo engine for maximum fuel efficiency. Your passengers will get a coach experience theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll choose again and again. www.prevostcar.com

See us at UMA Expo Booths #2 & #435