Jan/Feb 2018 Busline Magazine

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CONTENTS

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JANuAry/FEbruAry 2018 Published by Rankin Publishing, Inc. www.buslinemag.com

E

IN THIS ISSUE Maintaining Local Presence In Each Market For

Silverado Stages ...........................................8

Plus University Of 45,000 Students

Champaign-Urbana MTD Serving Community Of 140,000 ......30 2018 UMA Motorcoach Expo In San Antonio.........................42 Business Model: Always Learning, Adapting/Evaluating.........46 Busline Buyers Guides

Vehicle Lifts.......................54 • Seating & Fabrics.............56

Busline Vehicle Showcase: Motorcoaches ............................60 UMA Motorcoach Expo Booth Numbers Current As Of 12/07/17, courtesy of www.motorcoachexpo.com.

RAPID RESPONSE.........................Page 6 INDUSTRY NEWS .......................Page 45

ON THE COVER: Silverado Stages President Sharron Galusha and Chairman of the Board Jim Galusha stand next to one of their company’s Volvo 9700 motorcoaches. Silverado Stages operates out of several locations in the western part of the United States. See page 8.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS JANUARY 2018 January 6-10 United Motorcoach Association (UMA) Motorcoach Expo San Antonio, TX Info: 800-424-8262 January 26-28 International Motorcoach Group (IMG) Maintenance & Safety Meeting 2018 Charlotte, NC Info: 888-447-3466 January 27-30 American Bus Association (ABA) Annual Meeting & Marketplace Charlotte, NC Info: 800-283-2877

MAY 2018 May 6-9 APTA Bus & Paratransit Conference Tampa, FL Info: 202-496-4800 JUNE 2018 June 10-14 Community Transportation Association of America (CTAA) Expo Pittsburgh, PA Info: 800-891-0590 SEPTEMBER 2018 September 23-26 APTA Annual Meeting Nashville, TN Info: 202-496-4800

OCTOBER 2018 October 1-3 BusCon 2018 Indianapolis, IN Info: 800-576-8788 JANUARY 2019 January 6-10 United Motorcoach Association (UMA) Motorcoach Expo Fort Lauderdale, FL Info: 800-424-8262 MARCH 2019 March 19-21 Bus2Bus Trade Show & Congress Berlin, Germany Info: www.bus2bus.berlin

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 2018 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

Page 4

BUSLINE

January/February 2018

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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Company

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www.inabussales.com www.infantibusandcoachupholstery.com www.jjchem.com www.kielna.com

23 5 7 22 40 11 10 36 50 41 16 6 15 59 21 17 13 52 48 37 32 38 3 49 53 71 18 50 57

Company Lancer Insurance Lazzerini Marathon Brake Systems Midwest Bus Corporation Mohawk Lifts Motor Coach Industries (MCI) Motorcoach Tire Sales National Interstate Onspot Automatic Tire Chains Petro Stopping Centers Prevost Car ProAir, LLC Relational Bus Systems Resorts Casino Hotel Safety Step Sardo Bus & Coach Upholstery SCALABROS Service Insurance Shriver Transportation Insurance Agency Sutrak Thermo King TIB Transportation Information Systems TRP Bus Parts Turbo Images UMA Expo United States Warranty Corporation Vanner Power VDO RoadLog

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January/February 2018

Website www.lancerinsurance.com www.lazzerini.it/en/ www.MarathonBrake.com www.midwestbus.com www.mohawklifts.com www.mcicoach.com www.motorcoachtiresales.com www.natl.com www.onspot.com

www.prevostcar.com www.proairllc.com www.rbs2000.com www.ResortsAC.com www.safetystep.net www.sardobus.com www.scalabros.it www.serviceins.com www.shriverinsurance.com www.sutrakusa.com www.thermoking.com www.tibinsurance.com www.iFleetELD.tisfleet.com www.TRPQualityParts.com www.turbo-images.com www.motorcoachexpo.com www.uswceagle.com www.vanner.com www.vdoroadlog.com

Page # 19 56 33 34 55 2 12 27 51 53 72 24 43 54 51 9 48 52 70 26 44 39 47 14 25 69 31 28, 45 35

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Growth Through Acquisitions While Maintaining Local Presence In Each Market For

Silverado Stages

“I have always felt that opportunity does not come knocking.

Instead, opportunity kind of sneaks into the back of the room, and if you don’t see it before it trots back out of the room, it’s gone.”

Pictured left: Silverado Stages Chairman of the Board Jim Galusha and President Sharron Galusha

By Harrell Kerkhoff, Busline Magazine Editor

said. “I have always felt that opportunity does not come knocking. Instead, opportunity kind of sneaks into the back of the room, onstantly looking for, and taking advantage of, new busiand if you don’t see it before it trots back out of the room, it’s gone. You have to be ready when you first see opportunity.” ness opportunities has paid off well over the years for If recent company growth is any indication, Galusha and his Silverado Stages, a major transportation provider headmany co-workers have been ready. Through various mergers, quartered in Phoenix, AZ. This is part of a business philosophy acquisitions and service expansions, Silverado Stages is now one that continues to drive the company to different customers and locations. And it’s a philosophy that starts at the top. of the largest bus/motorcoach operators on the U.S. West Coast.

“I stress to our employees that we, as a company, can’t just dig The company operates out of eight terminals — located in the in our heels, and only go after California cities of San Luis “I stress to our employees that we, as a Obispo, Sacramento, Santa the kind of work that we know Barbara, Torrance, and San well and like the best. We have company, can’t just dig in our heels, and only to learn new skills, and use go after the kind of work that we know well and Diego; and well as in Reno these skills to penetrate addiand Las Vegas, NV, and like the best. We have to learn new skills, and tional markets when they Phoenix. It has approximately become visible and available,” use these skills to penetrate additional markets 600 employees and a large when they become visible and available.”

Silverado Stages Chairman fleet of motorcoaches — of the Board Jim Galusha —Jim Galusha including those manufactured

C

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BUSLINE

January/February 2018

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John Busskohl CEO

Mike Watson CMO

Susan Schmidt CFO

Joseph Uffens COO

Cory Medigovich Marketing Mgr.

Chris Groepler VP Charter Sales

Aaron Langmayer Jennifer Werkowski Dir. Bus/Truck Ser. Safety/Risk Mgr.

Mark Stumpf IT Mgr.

by Prevost and Volvo — as well as mini-coaches, “We purposely try to provide a well-rounded mix of school buses, limousines, sedans, SUVs and vans. business. That way, if one segment suffers a serious “We provide a large variety of transportation downturn due to a situation beyond our control, our options. This includes over-the-road charters; scheduled route service; employee, campus and airport entire company will not suffer as much.� shuttles; and in-house tour work,� Galusha said. “Our primary service area is Arizona, California and Nevada, but we travel all across the United States and into Canada. companies ‘put all of their eggs in one basket’ during the “We provide travel options to numerous over-the-road clients, months following 9/11. Some of these companies, whose pricoast-to-coast. A lot of these customers use our services to visit mary business was catering to the inbound U.S. tourism marnational parks in such western states as California, Arizona, ket, ended up folding. “We find that the charter travel segment is the most profUtah, Wyoming and Colorado. We are not afraid to get out there itable for us. Unfortunately, it is also the least stable. There are and travel.� huge variations in seasonal demand. We counter the negative Service diversification is important to Galusha and his team. aspects of seasonal charter work with the more stable contract “We purposely try to provide a well-rounded mix of busiservice transportation.

This helps us provide continuous work ness. That way, if one segment suffers a serious downturn due for our drivers, even during the slower charter months. It’s to a situation beyond our control, our entire company will not extremely helpful with driver retention.� suffer as much,� Galusha said. “I saw what can happen when

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THE ENTREPRENEURIAL SPIRIT ilverado Stages has been providing ground transportation work across the West Coast for over 30 years. Although they have not been in the bus/motorcoach industry quite as long, Jim Galusha and his wife, Silverado Stages President Sharron Galusha, have also garnered plenty of experience in this line of business, stretching nearly 20 years.

“My wife and I are entrepreneurs, and have been involved in various types of companies over the years.

The biggest thing we have always looked for in a prospective business is its ability to grow. Sharron and I are both type ‘A’ personalities. We tend to grow bored if a business quits growing,” Jim Galusha said. “In 1998, we sold a sports memorabilia company that was built from scratch over the previous 10 or so years. It became one of the five largest companies of its type in the country.

“At the time of the company’s sale, Sharron and I were residing on the Central Coast of California, just as the wine industry in that area was starting to explode in popularity. We took a winery tour in this area, that was offered by a local hotel. The tour included travel on a small cutaway bus, holding 15 to 17 passengers.”

During the trip, Sharron and Jim Galusha became just as interested with the bus travel experience as they were visiting the different wineries. Being true entrepreneurs, and looking for a project or business as an investment opportunity, the couple started talking about operating and owning their own transportation company. They eventually purchased a new, 21-passenger cutaway

S

Silverado has a fleet of approximately 336 vehicles.

bus, and began advertising per capita wine tours, in association with local hotels.

“Our business began to grow at about the same pace as the local wine industry,” Jim Galusha said. “Shortly afterward, we added per capita trips to various professional sporting events including local NFL, NBA and MLB games, as well as NASCAR races. The investment in tickets to these events was somewhat risky at first, but the service turned out to be quite profitable. Within a year, Sharron and I purchased our first full-size motorcoach.

“We were very aggressive in our quest to build a successful bus business. In fact, the name of our new company during its first five years in business was ‘Quest Transportation.’ We put all of our

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profits back into the company, such as purchasing advertising and additional equipment.”

In 2003, Quest Transportation merged with Silverado Stages.

The original Silverado was also located on the central California coast, having been established in 1987. It was a main competitor of Quest prior to the merger.

“Merging these two similar companies doubled our market share, and increased the size of the fleet to 24 motorcoaches,” Galusha said. “A couple of smaller transportation operations were also absorbed in the years that followed, allowing us to establish operations in the Santa Barbara and Sacramento markets.”

In-house tours and charters continued to be the major services that the company provided. It also successfully added long-term

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BUSLINE

service contracts, which fueled organic growth.

“Another big event for Silverado Stages occurred in 2011, when an ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan) was implemented. As an approved ERISA (Employee Retirement Income Security Act) retirement plan, we were able to utilize company profits to acquire company stock and contribute that stock, free of charge, to our employees. This basically made these employees owners of our company,” Galusha said. “It’s gone a long way in increasing efficiencies and adding quality at our company, as more employees have taken an active interest in the well-being of Silverado Stages. Employees realize that growth and better efficiencies lead to higher stock prices, which directly affects the value of their retirement. I’m happy to report that our ESOP plan is continuing to flourish. Employee ownership is growing at Silverado Stages.

“Pride of ownership, and our employees’ motivation to make the company as good as it can be, has been quite helpful and instrumental in our success. These factors have led to increased revenue growth and additional mergers.”

In February 2015, Silverado Stages merged with Silver State Coach, opening the Las Vegas market for Silverado and increasing its fleet. Another merger occurred in December 2016 with Michelangelo Leasing (operating under the Divine, Ryan’s Express and White Tie brand names), which had terminals in Los Angeles, Las Vegas, San Diego and Phoenix. Silverado Stages’ fleet expanded again with this merger, to its current level of approximately 336 units.

In the early part of 2017, the corporate headquarters of Silverado Stages was moved from San Luis Obispo to Phoenix.

This was done, in part, to help the company maintain its growing administrative workforce.

“Over the past few years, there have been many mergers and acquisitions at Silverado Stages. This process involves a lot of work. It can be a daunting task to consolidate operations, take advantage of economies of scale, identify unproductive activities within a different company and making modifications to existing cultures, procedures and policies,” Galusha said.

“Our recent success with mergers and acquisitions is a strong testament to the staff working at Silverado. We have the proper people in place to make these events successful.

“Mergers and acquisitions are quite complicated and risky, but if successful, the process can be very rewarding and help grow the overall business.”

Silverado Stages has been successful in finding and retaining what Galusha calls,

January/February 2018

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See us at UMA Expo Booth #1143

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THREE KEYS TO “A fantastic upper level manSUCCESS agement staff, one that has past experience in helping harron and Jim Galusha companies the size of ours have spearheaded a sucgrow.” cessful transportation He added: “Our CEO, John enterprise for nearly 20 years.

Busskohl, comes from a wellAlong the way, they have recestablished bus family. His ognized three main keys to sucexperience with mergers and cess, which continue to help acquisitions is invaluable. Our their business remain strong CFO, Susan Schmidt, also while also growing. These three has years of experience in simkeys are: Silverado Stages’ 24/7 control center, located in Phoenix, AZ, n Service — “First and foreilar positions at companies our includes dispatch and scheduling operations. size and larger, as does our most, we have always concenCMO, Mike Watson, and our Vice President of Sales, Chris trated on providing quality transportation services to all our Groepler. Our COO, Joseph Uffens, came to us from the merg- clients. Everything else is minor compared to a high level of server with Michelangelo, with a long ice,” Jim Galusha said. “‘Service’ is background in this industry. And our “Service is an all-encompassing term. an all-encompassing term. It entails Director of Maintenance, Aaron giving clients more than they expect It entails giving clients more than Langmayer, also has an extensive to receive. they expect to receive.” work history with both the transit and “An example is having newer motorcoach segments. vehicles in our fleet. We know that “The overall knowledge that comes from our C-level staff has buses and motorcoaches, generally speaking, can run for a very been extremely helpful. As importantly, we give back to our long time. We also know that all vehicles eventually break. industry through active board participation in such organizations However, newer buses and motorcoaches tend to break less freas the ABA (American Bus Association), UMA (United quently than older units. And clients don’t like it when their bus or Motorcoach Association), CBA (California Bus Association) and coach breaks.” the NBTA (National Business Travel Association).”

Another example of providing a high level of service at

S

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BUSLINE

January/February 2018

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Silverado Stages is employing timelier fashion.”

“We have standardized our operations across uniformed professional drivThe company’s dispatch all terminals and created a centralized business ers, as well as responsive sales center, which at Silverado model. At the same time, we still maintain a agents who maintain regular Stages is referred to as the local presence in each of our sales markets.” contact with clients. “control center,” is now a “When it comes to service, state-of-the-art operation locwe take extraordinary pride in our drivers, other staff members ated in Phoenix, and is operated 24/7. and our equipment,” he added.

“It helps that we have real-time GPS in place for all of our n Standardized Operations — While maintaining eight termi- buses/motorcoaches. We know exactly where each of these vehinals, in three states, it can be easy to lose sight of the company’s cles is located, and how fast they are traveling. On-board diagnosoverall brand and business strategy. This is a challenge that tics also relay any engine-related issues to our control center,” Silverado Stages’ employees work every day to overcome.

Galusha said.

“We have standardized our operations across all terminals Cameras located inside the company’s vehicles also allow officials and created a centralized business model,” Galusha said. “At at Silverado Stages access to what is going on with each trip, in real the same time, we still maintain a local presence in each of our time. This technology not only helps from a security standpoint, but sales markets.” also lets drivers know they are not alone if an issue occurs while on Maintaining eight terminals not only allows officials at the road.

Silverado Stages to better serve different transportation markets in the western United States, but helps the company cut down on cer“I have always felt that most employees, tain operational costs. including drivers, welcome supervision.”

“We are able to efficiently move equipment between yards as demand dictates, helping us to take better advantage of seasonality differences. This leads to higher utilization across our “I have always felt that most employees, including drivers, entire fleet. We are also able to reduce the amount of deadhead welcome supervision. This was something I believe was missmovement,” Galusha said. “In the case of equipment break- ing when Sharron and I first entered the transportation industry. downs, having eight terminals — spread over a wide geograph- There didn’t seem to be any real-time supervision for a compaic region — allows us to provide ‘rescue vehicles’ in a more ny’s primary employees, who are the drivers,” Galusha said.

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BUSLINE

January/February 2018

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“At Silverado Stages, we still require drivers to be self-reliant and capable of handling all types of situations while on the road. But, at the same time, our drivers know that we, at Silverado Stages, are available to help them as well if any type of trouble occurs.” n Reinvestment — A large portion of Silverado Stages’ profits are reinvested into the company for the purchase of new equipment, facility improvements and market area enlargement, as well as supporting its employees through competitive pay, benefits and ESOP participation.

Galusha added that operating any business, especially a transportation company, requires the ability to adapt to changes in customer demands.

“There are levels and plateaus in this business that you must transition through as you grow. It’s also important to recognize that running a 12-bus operation is very different from operating a 24-bus operation, etc.,” he said. “When I was overseeing a 12-bus operation, I personally was in contact with every bus, with every driver and with every mechanic. I could be very hands-on and get a good feel for what was happening within the company. When we grew, however, I noticed that I was getting further and further removed from the feeling that I had a hand in everything. This is natural.

“It’s therefore important to have the proper policies and procedures in place to ensure, as the owner of the company, that your needs and expectations are being met by the people on the front lines, even though you are further removed from day-to-day operations.”

Galusha added that company growth can be a challenge for any business owner, and is part of an ongoing process.

“At Silverado Stages, we have been able to work our way through many levels of business. Currently, our main company challenges are like what I imagine most other bus/motorcoach entities are encountering today,” he said. “The driver shortage is, and will continue to be, problematic. Overall wages and benefits are steadily rising in an effort to find employees with good work ethics. Finding lower insurance rates is also a challenge, as is finding good interest rates from lenders who are not afraid to offer financing for expensive equipment that quickly depreciates.

These are all challenges facing today’s transportation industry.”

A FLEET FULL OF MODERN AMENITIES ith a fleet of approximately 336 vehicles, it’s fair to say that Silverado Stages offers a wide variety of transportation options. This includes a varied assortment of motorcoaches, which Galusha hopes to eventually consolidate.

“When we acquire or merge with another company, the fleets of both businesses are combined. This is why Silverado Stages now has buses and motorcoaches from many different manufacturers,” he said. “Efforts are ongoing in trying to sell and/or trade off units, with a goal of minimizing the number of different makes and models that we have in operation.”

Galusha said he’s been very satisfied with the large number of Prevost and Volvo motorcoaches used by Silverado Stages. This includes 34 Prevosts that encompass a mix of H3-45s, used for charter work, and X3-45s, used for line runs. The company also operates 64 Volvo 9700 models, which are used for both charter and line runs.

“We have always had Prevost motorcoaches in our fleet,

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and have an amazing relationship with the company. These motorcoaches are of excellent quality, and both our drivers and customers love them for their comfort and amenities,” Galusha said. “When there is a problem, Prevost is quick to respond with assistance.

“Prevost has proven to be a great partner in regard to customer service, vehicle assistance and technical knowledge. The company’s willingness to support our staff and vehicles has proven to be second to none. This relationship has helped us to grow.”

Among the charm of Silverado Stages’ motorcoaches are such amenities as Wi-Fi capabilities and 110-volt outlets with USB ports at every seat.

Mechanics play a key role in helping Silverado Stages’ approximately 336 vehicles stay in top shape.

“These features are among our most requested amenities. All of our charter motorcoaches are also equipped with DVD players and monitors,” Galusha said. “Much like the airline industry, our passengers have the option to individually purchase Wi-Fi on demand. Groups no longer need to purchase the service for everyone involved with a trip, whether each person wants it or not.

This gives individual passengers the freedom and service they expect.”

He noted that when it comes to serving the public, first impressions mean everything.

“All of our motorcoaches, for example, feature a clean and simple look. This includes attractive logos that reflect light at night, and our trademarked destination ovals that can be seen on the sides of many of our vehicles — making them rolling masterpieces. Each oval shows a painted scene of one of our destinations,” Galusha said.

Along with modern amenities, another key area of service that Silverado Stages does not cut corners on is cleanliness. This is true no matter the vehicle used or the distance traveled, according to Galusha.

“It’s our policy to clean every vehicle after every trip. These vehicles are cleaned whether they are scheduled to go out the next day or not. You never know when a call will come in, and you need to send a specific vehicle out right away,” he said. “Our maintenance staff receives schedules on which vehicles are arriving. These people are properly trained, and the importance of getting the job done correctly is emphasized from the start.”

Little things — such as the sights and smells a customer first experiences when boarding a vehicle — all need to be taken into account for the proper “first impression” to take place.

“We are cognizant of the fact that a passenger may be sitting in one seat for hours. He/she is going to see every little defect and/or

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piece of dirt in close proximity to that seat. And, that passenger is going to see it over and over again, throughout the entire time in that seat. By the time the trip’s over, it’s permanently engrained in that person’s mind,” he said. “The passenger may someday forget some of the positive aspects of his/her trip, or even the name of our company, but will likely still remember any negatives — including the cleanliness or lack thereof, of the area around that seat.

“Most of the time, customers are quick to point out any failure on our part. That’s a good thing. This helps us pinpoint areas where we need to improve. Unhappy customers who never say anything are often lost forever. Those are the ones who can hurt future business.”

Galusha also places high value on other aspects of his company’s operation.

“When it comes to our internet presence, people will often check out our website design, its contents and the pictures of our fleet. If it all looks good to them, they attach value to our company,” he said. “They can often tell if we have invested money in the products that we are trying to sell. To most people, if you have spent money investing in your products, they feel more comfortable investing their own money in your company. This includes using good looking vehicles with attractive graphics, shiny chrome, clean glass and nice upholstery. These are all worthwhile investments to a bus/motorcoach company that will result in maximum sales. If the value that customers perceive in your business is higher than your asking price, you

have likely just made a sale.”

Along with GPS, Wi-Fi, event recorders and cameras, other technological tools used on many of Silverado Stages’ vehicles include adaptive cruise control, accident avoidance and proximity sensors and electronic logs.

With the latter technology, Galusha said his company is experiencing an increase in driver efficiencies and more accurate tracking of hours-of-service, as a result of using electronic logging devices (ELDs).

“We are finding that many of our drivers like using electronic logs, and when this technology is used properly, these drivers can even end up with more over-the-road hours available to them, compared to using paper logs,” he said.

Bus/motorcoach operators around the nation are working to comply with the new federal ELD mandate. This requires most drivers who currently use paper logs to use an ELD, as defined by the mandate, by Dec. 18, 2017.

Although various drivers at Silverado Stages are getting used to these logs, Galusha reported one downside he has noticed.

“I don’t think the (federal) government has taken into account the amount of auditing that is now required,” he said. “This entails additional manpower that we have had to bring onboard.

We have also found that when there is an error with the (ELD), it’s much more complicated to correct than with a paper log.”

Overall, today’s technological advancements now available for operators are very much embraced by officials at Silverado Stages.

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BUSLINE

January/February 2018

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“If you want to grow as a company, it’s important to embrace new technology,” Galusha said. “Technology helps us lower our overall cost of operation, which allows us to experience a reasonable profit margin, while still being able to compete against those companies that are considered ‘low-ball’ competitors.”

“We are available 24/7 to handle all the needs associated with our range of services. This includes actual people answering the telephone and providing trip confirmations and other help for customers, while fully understanding their expectations,” Galusha said.

About 600 people are employed throughout the Silverado Stages’ serv“If the value that customers perceive in your business is higher ice network, of which over 400 are than your asking price, you have likely just made a sale.” either part- or full-time drivers.

When it comes to drivers, as well as Along with an updated website, officials at Silverado Stages all employees, Galusha said a strong work ethic is a major charalso focus on expanding the company’s reach via different social acteristic he looks for when hiring and promoting. media outlets. Silverado is involved as well with geo-targeting “It’s really important that an employee can help our company advertising, which is the practice of delivering specific content or during a special time of need. For example, if a driver calls in advertisements to a website user, based on that person’s geographic region.

“Technology helps us lower our overall cost of operation,

which allows us to experience a reasonable profit

‘GO THE DISTANCE’ margin, while still being able to compete against those roperly reaching out and satisfying potencompanies that are considered ‘low-ball’ competitors.” tial and current customers is a never-ending objective for officials at Silverado Stages. sick, there is that need for another driver to step up and say, ‘Yes, “We have different company themes that our employees I will come in and work in that driver’s place,’” he said. incorporate into our business. When it comes to branding and Just like a company must make a good first impression when customer service, our theme is, ‘We go the distance for travel- seeking a new customer, the same is true for those people hoping ers,’” Galusha said. to find employment and build a solid career at Silverado Stages.

“When a driver candidate comes in, we even like to go out and He added that an old adage remains true in today’s transportalook at his/her personal vehicle to see if it’s clean or if the interition marketplace — the customer is No. 1.

P

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or is cluttered with stuff. The thought is, if hired, the candidate will treat our vehicle the same as he/she treats a personal automobile,â&#x20AC;? Galusha said.

He added that when hiring drivers, good driving skills are a must, but just as important are good customer service skills. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The driver is often the only person in our company who interacts with clients during a trip. Many times, this interaction is what passengers will remember about us, as the transportation provider,â&#x20AC;? Galusha said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also important that our drivers understand the vehicles they are operating. This helps them

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Over the years, we have increased our amount of hands-on training. We find this keeps driver candidates better engaged regarding our training goals.â&#x20AC;?

to fix minor problems while on the road, or at least properly communicate back to our control center about any mechanical issues that they are experiencing.â&#x20AC;?

Officials at Silverado Stages donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t like to hire people who have worked for multiple employers within a short period of time. â&#x20AC;&#x153;That has always been a red flag for us,â&#x20AC;? Galusha explained.

Driver training at Silverado Stages includes participation in both online and hands-on programs. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Over the years, we have increased our amount of handson training. We find this keeps driver candidates better engaged regarding our training goals,â&#x20AC;? Galusha said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The

more time candidates can actually spend on a bus/coach, the better chances we, as a company, have of preventing future driver errors.â&#x20AC;?

GOALS FOR THE FUTURE ne way to measure a companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s true success is to see how itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s recognized within an industry. If recent years are any indication, many people involved with the North American bus and motorcoach industry think highly of Silverado Stages.

In particular, the company has received three awards within the past three years, which is very gratifying for Galusha and his staff.

They are: n 2015 United Motorcoach Association (UMA) Vision Award â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Which recognized Silverado Stagesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; various goals, targets and direction, including its newly created ESOP program; n 2016 UMA Green Highway Award â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Given to an operator that has shown success in implementing environmental friendly business practices; and, n 2017 California Bus Association Driver Trainer of the Year Award â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Presented to a company that has implemented a superior driver training program, with a special emphasis placed on safety. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s very nice to be recognized by your peers. It shows we, as a company, are doing something worthwhile, and have garnered some good results,â&#x20AC;? Galusha said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It helps that we work hard at meeting our customersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; expectations, which continue to increase. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The goal is to make our company as streamlined and profitable as possible. We are always bidding on new jobs. The main thing is

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to remain flexible, while properly responding to todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s different market needs.â&#x20AC;?

As for the overall future of the bus and motorcoach industry, Galusha sees more company consolidations taking place. This trend may continue well into the future, he added.

can you just get in, turn the key, and go. I have a private pilotâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s license and have come to the realization that new buses/coaches are getting to be almost as complicated as some airplanes,â&#x20AC;? Galusha said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;When you combine these mechanical complications with the complexities of managing people, and then throw in all of todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s compliance issues, you begin to realize that this â&#x20AC;&#x153;The goal is to make our company as streamlined and can be a very challenging business.â&#x20AC;?

On the positive side, Galusha feels future profitable as possible. We are always bidding on new demand will remain strong for bus and motorjobs. The main thing is to remain flexible, while properly coach transportation in North America. responding to todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s different market needs.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;There will always be a need for these kinds of â&#x20AC;&#x153;While we, at Silverado Stages, are not actively looking for cur- vehicles, moving large groups of people for scheduled route servrent merger or acquisition possibilities, we are not opposed to ice, employee shuttles, tourist and charter groups, etc. This reviewing prospects that come our way,â&#x20AC;? Galusha said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are demand is not going away,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The big question is, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Who is very selective in that any such growth opportunities must be with- going to provide these services in the future?â&#x20AC;&#x2122; We, at Silverado in those geographic areas that are of close proximity to our exist- Stages, want to be one of those companies.â&#x20AC;? ing operations. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I feel there are, and will continue to be, significant barriers of entry for new private transportation operators. After all, how many people can afford a $500,000 vehicle to start a business?â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Meanwhile, I feel the biggest challenge for most current bus/coach operators in the near future will likely be driver availability. Recent truck industry reports indicate there is a current shortage of 50,000 truck drivers. This shortage is expected to grow to over 150,000 within the next few years. The bus industry competes for many of these same drivers.â&#x20AC;?

According to Galusha, being a bus/motorcoach operator is Contact: Silverado Stages, Inc., not the easiest career path to select. However, the rewards can 2239 N. Black Canyon Hwy., Phoenix, AZ 85009. be many.

Phone: 888-383-8109. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s buses and motorcoaches are complicated. No longer Website: www.silveradostages.com.

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January/February 2007

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Busline Magazine’s

Suppliers 2018 Company Profile

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

Free Listing

Deadline: Friday, June 15, 2018

Mail to: busline Magazine, 204 E. Main, P.O. box 130, Arcola, IL 61910 - uSA Phone 800-598-8083 (uS) • 217-268-4959 • FAX 217-268-4815

The following form will be used to compile a company profile to be included in Suppliers 2018, published in the July/August 2018 issue of Busline Magazine. Suppliers 2018 is an international suppliers directory that will be read all year long by motorcoach, transit, specialty vehicle and para-transit companies.

Please fill out and return as soon as possible and no later than Friday, June 15, 2018. You may also email the information requested below to: drankin@consolidated.net; please use subject line, “Busline Suppliers.” Thank you for your help in making this suppliers directory the most helpful and most comprehensive yet.

SubMITTED by: ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________ COMPANy NAME: _________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ADDrESS: _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

CITy:____________________________________________ STATE: ___________________ ZIP: ________ COuNTry: _____________________ TELEPHONE: _________________________________________ E-MAIL: __________________________________________________________ WEbSITE: _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________ PrODuCTS (15 WOrDS MAXIMuM) Please list products only.

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

For advertising information or to publish an Enhanced Company Listing, contact Kevin Kennedy at 813-502-6672 or email kevloraz@gmail.com. your Company Enhanced Listing receives • Logo • Highlighted background color over entire listing • up to a 300 word product description • Company contact information (Name, address, website, phone, E-mail, social media/Fb site)

0118Busline.FINAL_Layout 1 12/11/17 11:01 AM Page 30

Plus University Of 45,000 Students

Champaign-Urbana MTD

Serving Community Of 140,000 A

Karl Gnadt, Managing Director & CEO

By Rick Mullen, Busline Magazine Associate Editor

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BUSLINE

January/February 2018

s the home of the University of Illinois, the twin cities of Champaign-Urbana, IL, located along Interstates 74 and 57 in east central Illinois, are often collectively known to many as a “ college town.” While the U of I has certainly helped put the cities on the map, so to speak, there is much more to the vibrant, growing metro area than the university, as the people who work and live there can testify.

Helping to keep the bustling communities “on the go” is the Champaign-Urbana Mass Transit District (MTD).

“In addition to the U of I campus, MTD services Champaign-Urbana and the suburb of Savoy, located just south of Champaign,” said MTD Director of Customer Service Amy Snyder, during a recent interview with Busline Magazine at the district’s state-of-the-art headquarters in Urbana. “The combined population of Champaign-Urbana is about 140,000. The University of Illinois’ undergraduate and graduate population is about 45,000. We operate 111 buses and 14 vans.”

MTD’s vans are used for its ADA Paratransit and SafeRides programs. SafeRides is an overnight service that provides safe transportation for individuals who are generally traveling alone, when no other means of safe transportation is available.

In addition to SafeRides, paratransit and fixed-route services, MTD offers: n Express Service — A variation of the fixed-route

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service that typically operates on special routing only, during morning and afternoon peak hours; n Hopper Service — MTD has several routes that include Hopper Service. Hopper buses only serve the portion of a route that experiences the heaviest rider volume; and, n Half-Fare Cab Program — This supplemental program, provided exclusively for DASH Pass holders, provides discounted cab rides within the MTD boundaries. Seniors and Medicare card holders may travel for a 50-cent fee or for free with a DASH Pass.

MTD’s ongoing goal is to be a “customer driven” organization. One of the underpinnings of this effort is a core value — Commit to “Yes.” This program includes providing outstanding customer/public service, developing long-term positive relationships and embracing opportunity and innovation.

“MTD employees are challenged to keep the customer in mind when they are dealing with all the things their jobs entail,” Snyder said. “We recognize every department plays a role. Commit to ‘Yes’ is

the challenge we pose to employees of, ‘I will find a solution and, if I don’t have the answer, I will point the customer in another direction.’

We try to support each other as best we can across departments to maintain that commitment.

“I often think the daily grind, and the weight that the community and our passengers put on us, can sometimes cause us to lose focus.

That customer-driven focus gives us a reason to be and unites us across departments. If we ever lose sight of that, we won’t be great, we will just be good. I’d like to see all departments really challenge themselves. I think morale is always an issue, so focusing on the customer and why we are here will help us all do our jobs better.”

MTD Planner Jay Rank added: “I think she (Snyder) is spot on with that assessment. Customer service is why we are here and we need to focus on it across the board — not just the people answering the phone or driving a bus, but from everybody in the organization.”

MTD employees are encouraged to see the big picture as they carry on with their daily responsibilities.

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are pulled from bus operators.”

In addition, Snyder said, maintenance department employees can work to become a shift foreman. Likewise, call center personnel can aspire to become a supervisor.

“We have full-time management staff members who started, not as interns, but as a phone answerer, or as a bus operator. It is so great to bring people in and “I often think the daily grind, and the weight that allow them opportunities to grow and advance.” the community and our passengers put on us, Another coveted position at MTD is that of a can sometimes cause us to lose focus. That street supervisor. customer-driven focus gives us a reason to be and “Street supervisors check on the service to unites us across departments. If we ever lose sight make sure everything is operating as it should,” of that, we won’ t be great, we will just be good.”

Rank said. “For example, they make sure drivers — MTD Director of Customer Service Amy Snyder have their nameplates up and are making complete stops at stop signs. They check on all the For its employees who are seeking a long-term career in public tran- little things that make the system click.”

Snyder added: “The street supervisor position is really an opportusit, MTD has several paths available. The system employs around 250 drivers, about 50 maintenance department workers and utility person- nity to move up, so that is a big goal for folks. A street supervisor uses a van to help monitor our service. Among his/her duties are helping nel, Rank said.

In addition, there are street supervisors, radio operators, a manage- operators if they have a fare dispute, and checking on road construcment team, people who work in accounting and customer service, as tion sites to see if we need to reroute. They also serve as a dispatcher well as technology services staff. Rank is the system’s planner. In all, in our control center.”

MTD employs 350 people.

THE ONGOING SEARCH FOR DRIVERS “One thing we really try and broadcast to employees is the opportunities of upward mobility,” Snyder said. “If you start as a hile Champaign-Urbana MTD has many veteran bus operbus operator, after you have been with us a certain number of years, ators, the search for good drivers at the entry level is an you can become a radio operator, which means you dispatch in our ongoing challenge. The transit district has been taking control center. You can also become a trainer. Our training department steps to attract people who are willing to stick with the job long has line instructors, road instructors and classroom instructors, which enough for it to develop into a long-term career path.

“For example, reminding the mechanic who is fixing a bus that he is not just making it turn on and do all the things a bus does, he is providing a vehicle to give people access to mobility, independence and all those wonderful things,” Snyder said. “Everybody at MTD is part of that mission.”

W

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“We are always hiring. We are always “We are short on drivers, it seems,” Rank said. starting to “It is a challenge, and we understand why. It is a seniority-based system. A offer night new hire starts off with the lowest wage, and weekend and the overnight and weekend hours. training.”

To be successful, a new driver has to — MTD Planner Jay Rank have the long-term goal in mind. The longer a driver stays here, the better it gets for him/her with higher wages and weekday, daytime hours. A person can have a great life if he/she stays here.”

In the effort to attract and train new drivers, MTD is offering training after normal business hours for those prospects who already have other jobs.

“We have a new training facility,” Rank said. “We are starting to offer night and weekend training, which I think is helpful for people who have a job and can’t spend six or eight weeks from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. in training. We are doing what we can to attract more employees.”

Bus operator prospects do not need prior experience operating large vehicles. In fact, MTD prefers to train people from scratch.

“Some people who come from the over-the-road truck industry have bad habits,” Rank said. “Our training department likes to start with somebody who is fresh and ready to learn.”

MTD is a third-party CDL (commercial driver’s license) certifier. The transit district works with the Illinois Secretary of State to maintain its independence in providing CDL certification for trainees, Snyder said.

She added: “We will train people from beginning to end, and they

will earn their CDLs.” MTD’s driver program has a customer service component, but the main thrust of the training focuses on operations.

“We are really focused on being safe out there,” Snyder said. “We are conducting fatigue training and attention training through the Atticus Consulting Group LLC system. We are really training operators to be prepared and to be in a good mental state.”

Unfortunately, in today’s society, mass shootings seem to be more and more frequent. As Europe can testify, public transportation can offer soft target opportunities. Over and over again terrorists and lone wolf shooters remind people such violence can break out anywhere at anytime. Thus, MTD has a plan and has trained its employees how to react in the event of a terrorist attack on the system, or if a lone gunman poses a threat.

“Our drivers understand where their resources are when they are in a coach on the street, and how they should respond to an emergency, such as a terrorist attack,” Snyder said. “We spent the past six months writing a control center manual for radio dispatchers, so they will know what they should do, from their back-end perspective, to respond.”

In the case of an attack or a shooter(s) on a bus, the operator’s perspective would be limited to his/her immediate surroundings. Radio dispatchers are trained to supply drivers with instructions or pertinent information from a wider perspective.

“We are working to make sure response coordination is really tight,” Snyder said. “MTD has a good relationship with METCAD 9-1-1 as

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well, which helps us to be prepared.â&#x20AC;?

METCAD 9-1-1 is the primary Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP) serving Champaign County, IL. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have security at MTDâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Illinois Terminal,â&#x20AC;? Rank said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;If there is a question or an issue, the driver can alert dispatchers who can call police for a quick response.â&#x20AC;?

Buses are also equipped with security cameras that provide a visual record. Video hard drives can be viewed post incident to help determine exactly what took place as well as being used for training purposes. â&#x20AC;&#x153;With our CAD (computer aided dispatch)/AVL (automatic vehicle location) system, we know where buses are at all times,â&#x20AC;?

Snyder said.

In the event of an emergency, drivers can open a radio channel inside the bus. â&#x20AC;&#x153;If there is an active shooter situation in a bus, our control center can listen in without drawing attention to themselves,â&#x20AC;? Snyder said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;In addition, a street supervisor can go out and meet a bus if there is an issue.â&#x20AC;?

MTDâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s driver training program is not exclusively for bus operators. The transit districtâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s management staff also trains with a view to earning a CDL. This training allows for a backup pool of bus operators to be called upon when needed, such as in the case of a weather emergency. Such training also gives management a better idea of what drivers face out on the streets day-in and day-out. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I think it is useful to get a different perspective on things,â&#x20AC;?

Rank said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m a planner, and if I have driven a bus myself, I will likely be more sympathetic to a driverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s needs and concerns when I write a schedule. For example, when planning a route, I will have a better take on what turns are possible or are more difficult to make. It is one thing to look at it on a map, but it is a different perspective from behind the wheel.â&#x20AC;?

Snyder added: â&#x20AC;&#x153;It helps management staff to know what it is like

to respond and communicate with passengers. It helps in understanding what a driver can and canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t see when operating our large vehicles.â&#x20AC;?

Indeed, the staff training gives insight into all the many things a driver must be aware of simultaneously, while ensuring riders have a positive and safe experience. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Being able to get the perspective of what it is like in the driverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s seat is helpful,â&#x20AC;? Snyder said.

Such training also helps maintain morale throughout the system. This allows management staff members to have empathy when a driver says, â&#x20AC;&#x153;If you only knew what we go through.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Now we can say, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;We have been out there driving a bus. We understand,â&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;? Rank said.

While the ongoing search for good drivers continues, the system is also facing the challenge of finding good mechanics. A situation Snyder said is not unique to MTD, as other transit systems are also dealing with the same problem.

Public transitâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s main competition for drivers and mechanics is the over-the-road truck industry. Recent news reports indicate that segment is also experiencing a shortage of both. For example, www.telegram.com reported in late 2016, â&#x20AC;&#x153;As the transportation industry continues to grow and baby boomers continue to retire, the need for trained diesel mechanics and truck drivers has never been greater. Job openings span the United States, and many sit open while businesses feel the stress of a massive talent shortage.â&#x20AC;?

In the search for good mechanics, MTD has established a relationship with Parkland Community College, located in Champaign, which offers a diesel tech program. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our mechanics must be willing to work overnight hours and on weekends,â&#x20AC;? Snyder said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It can be tough because we compete with over-the-road trucking companies, where a diesel tech typically does not have to work those days and hours.â&#x20AC;?

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LOOKING OUT FOR PASSENGERS ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) paratransit drivers and ver the years, there have been many news stories writ- we have some bus drivers who serve as backup. Our ADA ten about how fixed-route bus drivers look after their paratransit drivers have some of the biggest hearts. It takes a passengers and are acutely aware of what is happening lot of patience, because they are serving our most vulnerable on their routes. For example, in November, a Cincinnati (OH) passengers.

Metro operator spotted a small child wandering alone on a busy “We discuss the option for people to be ‘conditional’ riders road on his route. The driver brought the child on board and when they apply for ADA paratransit service. What that called for assistance, thus averting what could have been a trag- means is, the majority of the time, they can use fixed-route ic situation. buses, but, for example, when the weather gets really bad, they “A lot of our operators take pride and ownership of their routes, can request a paratransit ride. We call those people conditional riders, because our whole system is accessible to people with while anticipating the needs of their passengers,” Snyder said.

Getting to know and establishing relationships with passengers disabilities.” on campus routes is difficult, because large numbers of students Rank added: “We have universal access to all our buses. Anybody can get on and off the bus through all the doors without showing a fare, Rank said.

“The campus routes are very busy and more anonymous,” he said. “In contrast, on routes that go throughout the community at large, drivers often have conversations and with Available establish relationships with passengers. ly Fees No Month They know where they get on and off and their preferences. Drivers know which passengers need to be sitting down before the bus starts moving, or who is OK walking while the bus is moving. There are countless examples of this kind of thing.”

Snyder and Rank told of how drivers have taken care of a passenger who often travels alone and who suffers from dementia.

“He has our DASH Pass, which means he can ride for free because he is a person with www.vdoroadlog.com a disability,” Snyder said. “On his DASH card is his name and other information about him provided by his family. Our drivers ™ know him and where he goes. They will redirect him if he gets confused.”

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FMCSA “Every year, typically in August, we per✓ VDO certified and FMCSA registered. form service improvements. In May, we conduct a public hearing. There are some ✓ Built-in printer to get through regular riders who attend these hearings inspections faster. to check on their routes. I know where these people work and I can say to them, ✓ 24 / 7 US-based ‘You are going to be fine. Nothing is phone support. changing for you.’ For some people, public transit is their independence. I’ve met mothers whose adult children are autistic and they are so happy because they know www.vdoroadlog.com (855)-ROADLOG their children have that independence, and roadlog-sales@vdo.com that MTD cares about them.”

The transit district’s paratransit drivers also have developed similar relationships with their regular riders, even though these operators have a more difficult task in some ways than regular fixed-route drivers.

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in a wheelchair can get on any of our vehicles. What we have done, Center), that transports people with developmental disabilities. Again, historically, is to encourage people to ride the bus when they can. It we give them operating money and collect data on their ridership, etc.â&#x20AC;? gives them more flexibility versus paratransit, where they need to AN EVOLVING WORKPLACE CULTURE schedule a day in advance. It offers a different level of freedom that we have always encouraged.â&#x20AC;?

TD strives to put great emphasis on customer service Another challenge paratransit drivers face is accommodating riders throughout all its departments. To help keep everyone on with special requests, which happens frequently, Snyder said. the same page and to promote interdepartmental cooperaOperators are only allowed to go through the first door of a personâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tion, MTD traditionally fostered a â&#x20AC;&#x153;familyâ&#x20AC;? workplace culture. As the residence to give aid. They also must be able to keep an eye on their system has grown, the more intimate family atmosphere of the past parked vehicles while on a call. has been more difficult to maintain. â&#x20AC;&#x153;There are always those tricky cases paratransit drivers must know â&#x20AC;&#x153;These are interesting times,â&#x20AC;? Rank said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Historically, we have how to handle,â&#x20AC;? she said. considered ourselves a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;family,â&#x20AC;&#x2122; but Fortunately, MTD does not have to we have grown so drastically in the meet the paratransit needs of the compast 10 or 15 years, it is hard to munity alone. describe it that way anymore. We â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have our own paratransit servstill try to hold on to some of that. I ice,â&#x20AC;? Snyder said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our call center, think we do our best to make everywhich gives out route and schedule body feel welcome and happy here, information, also schedules ADA but certainly it is a challenge to get transit. We also help fund and support 350 people to buy in to provide other paratransit providers. The unigreat customer service. Maybe versity, for example, provides paraâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;teamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; is the best way to describe transit for students, which is great our culture today.â&#x20AC;? because the campus is difficult to â&#x20AC;&#x153;I think we face the same problem serve. We give the university operata lot of medium-size systems face. We ing funds, collect data on them, drug are big enough that it is difficult to Champaign-Urbana MTD is starting to offer night and weekend test their drivers, etc. know everybodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s name, but we are training in the effort to attract new employees who are unable â&#x20AC;&#x153;Another local paratransit provider to train during normal business hours. Pictured is Kyle McClain, not so large that you can get away is DSC (Developmental Services with not saying â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;hiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; to somebody,â&#x20AC;? operations, in the districtâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new training facility.

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Snyder said. “If you looked at MTD 10 years ago, I would also call us a ‘family.’ We have stellar employees who have long tenures and are committed to the district. We have people who have put in 10, 15 and 20 years, and they have made this their lives. They have committed to service. We attract good people, because if you are going to stay here, you are going to have to be committed to serving the public. That is who we are.

“One area in which I think MTD is a leader is we have always had interns. A lot of our management staff caught the transit bug while they were interns. This has been a successful path for us in bringing in a younger workforce.

“We had two interns this summer. We like to maintain those relationships. (Rank) had an intern who now works for the Metropolitan Saint Louis Transit Agency.”

SERVING A MULTICULTURAL POPULATION s director of customer service, Snyder is acutely aware of the importance of customer service to the overall paradigm of the transit district, and puts great emphasis on training customer service personnel. Part of their training is in how to serve people with limited English language proficiency.

For a metro area of its size, Champaign-Urbana has a large percentage of non-native born people, partly because of the multi-cultural U of I student body.

“We also have a pretty large population of Congolese immigrants,” Snyder said. “Therefore, we have training modules that teach employees how to communicate to our non-native born population.

“Champaign is one of 12 cities in the country receiving special funding to establish a New American Welcome Center to help people

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acclimate to our community.”

Given the eclectic and multicultural nature of Champaign-Urbana’s population, it is important to pinpoint who the target audience is in marketing the transit system, Snyder said.

“For the university population, there is a universal pass program.

Students can board the bus using their iCard (ID card),” Snyder said.

“Students pay a fee. Bus passes for the faculty, staff and retirees are paid for by the university. Ultimately, in marketing the system to students, we want them to understand they can use their iCards to travel anywhere on and outside the campus.”

The district’s buses themselves are also used to market the system.

“We have a lot of information posted in the interior of the buses,” Snyder said. “We also sell exterior ad space, as well. In addition, we use our local media outlets. We also view it as a responsibility to market to the community at large. Because we collect property taxes as part of our funding, everybody owns a piece of MTD. We take that pretty seriously. Therefore, we conduct a lot of campaigns on television, radio and on the bus, talking about the value of transit.”

MTD also has a team of people who conduct outreach events.

In addition, Snyder and the special services manager are meeting with community groups to explore ways to further enhance travel training.

“If we get invited somewhere, we will go,” she said. “We haven’t been as proactive as we would like to be, in particular with travel training and targeting those vulnerable populations who really benefit from using transit, but may be intimidated. So, our special services manager and I are spending a couple of months interviewing and meeting with community groups who are already doing their own travel training, to see what we can do to support them.”

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While some transit agencies are funded, in part, by sales taxes, MTD’s primary local funding source is property taxes.

“Because we collect property taxes, it makes us much more in the forefront of taxpayers’ minds,” Snyder said. “I think when you are on a receipt for clothing or whatever, people don’t see it as much. There is something about us being on that property tax bill that causes us to be treated very differently than the park district or the school district. Every time we go for a tax levy, it gets noticed. Every time we go to annex, it gets noticed. One of our biggest challenges is to constantly educate taxpayers about the value of public transit. Even if a person doesn’t ride the bus, he/she knows someone who does. Non-riders also receive the benefits of less congestion, cleaner air, etc.”

Much has been discussed and written about how the younger generations are more prone to adopt public transit as a viable transportation option.

Indeed, The Washington Post has reported, “There’s a lot of evidence that millennials don’t drive as much — or care as much for cars in general — as previous generations their own age did. They’re less likely to get driver’s licenses. They tend to take fewer car trips, and when they do, those trips are shorter. They’re also more likely than older generations to get around by alternative means: by foot, by bike, or by transit.”

“I do think the younger generation is more interested in transit and the future of the environment and all that,” Rank said.

“They see the bigger picture a little bit differently than the older generation.”

BUILD UP — NOT OUT n recent years, more and more people, both young and old, are opting to live closer to “downtown,” rather than in the suburbs.

Part of this shift in demographics is due to people wanting to be near where they work and/or where they shop. Public transit also plays a role in this shift, as inner city dwellers like the fact they have more transportation options.

This movement has also prompted city planners to push building high-rise apartments and condos in areas of high density, such as a city’s downtown. So far, in Champaign-Urbana, building up is mostly happening on the U of I campus.

“Champaign-Urbana calls itself ‘micro-urban’ because of our densities. Ultimately, public transit wants people to build up — not out,” Snyder said.

Rank added: “Today, there is a lot more on-campus development — taller buildings and high rises — whereas 15 to 20 years ago the development trend was to go to the edge of town. People are coming back in, which is a different challenge for MTD.” As this trend has taken hold in Champaign-Urbana, MTD has experienced a drop in ridership. At first MTD officials were at a loss to explain this phenomenon.

“We have a reasonable handle on it now,” Rank said. “It is because people are close enough to their destinations to walk or ride a bike if they so desire.”

Ironically, despite the loss of some ridership, MTD has had a significant hand in encouraging people to use other ways to get around, such as walking or riding a bike.

“We have been a part of this trend as some of our route changes

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over time have made it possible to have As the new Carle facility is outside higher densities on campus,” Rank said. of the city and district boundaries, it “It is not a bad thing. We are just part of had to be annexed in order to be served an urban system, and it is working.”

by MTD. “We think it is impacting our ridership, “Carle voluntarily came to the district but we are OK with that,” Snyder said. and said, ‘We want to be annexed,’” Snyder said. “It is exciting because we “We would rather people live closer to get to provide service for their employwhere they work and shop and have the ees, which is really forward thinking on choice of walking, bicycling or taking Carle’s part. It also shows that Carle valtransit. This is a more desirable outues MTD enough to bring us to the come than, ‘I’ll ride transit because I table, which is great for transit.” don’t have the money to have a car, but Rank added: “I think it will be a big then once I have the money to buy a car, Illinois Terminal houses customer service centers for growth area for the city in the next 10 I will quit riding transit.’ Most of the MTD and Greyhound, a Subway Sandwich Shop, years or so.” new developments here have been Amtrak, Illinois Terminal office, READY School Another development that involves geared toward students, but we do have (an alternative school), State Sen. Scott Bennett’s district MTD is a proposed multimillion dollar some developments that are serving office and the CityView Banquet and Meeting Center. project that would include expanding other populations.”

One development that involves MTD’s service is the construction of the transit district’s downtown intermodal Illinois Terminal facility. a new medical facility south of Champaign, just off an I-57 inter- The proposal includes building a 5,000-seat events center in conjuncchange. The local Carle Foundation Hospital is building a three-story tion with a hotel, conference center, office space and apartments.

Currently, the first floor of the four-story Illinois Terminal houses facility to house the various Carle and Health Alliance administrative and support functions, according to news reports. This project will customer service centers for MTD and Greyhound, as well as having bring 1,400 employees from 10 leased offices throughout Champaign- a Subway Sandwich Shop. On the second floor are Amtrak, Illinois Terminal office, READY School (an alternative school) and State Sen. Urbana into one facility, called Carle at the Fields.

“Carle at the Fields is being developed, and we are going to serve it Scott Bennett’s district office. READY School also occupies the third with a fixed route, which is going to require a new schedule and new floor. The CityView Banquet and Meeting Center is located on the fourth floor. routing,” Rank said.

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If the proposed project moves forward as planned, Illinois Terminal would expand the number of bus bays from 15 to as many as 26.

AUTONOMOUS VEHICLES — NOT IF, BUT WHEN TD operates 22 fixed routes, 9 evening routes and 11 weekend routes. Its buses travel about 3.2 million miles a year, carrying an average of 12.1 million riders annually. After purchasing its first diesel/electric hybrid bus in 2009, the transit district has added more.

“By next year, 80 percent of our fleet will be diesel/electric hybrid,” Snyder said. “As buses have come due for replacement, we have been buying hybrids. In addition, MTD has received a Low-No Emissions Grant from the Federal Transit Administration (FTA). These grants were given by the federal government to purchase alternative fuel buses, so we will be getting two 60-foot articulated, hydrogen fuel cell electric buses. We will also get a new hydrogen fuel station. This is really exciting because the emissions on hydrogen buses are just water.

I’ve heard you can drink from the tailpipe, should you be so inclined.”

One topic on the minds of public transit officials these days is, how are autonomous vehicles going to impact their respective agencies.

“I definitely see autonomous buses coming down the road. I just don’t know when — it may be five years or 25 years,” Rank said.

“I think we will integrate them one way or another. It is even part of the U of I’s master plan. The university is asking for an autonomous line that crosses the quads. I certainly see it happening as technology improves. How do we implement them? How do we afford it? How do we change our system to make it happen? — these are questions we will have to answer.”

M

Snyder thinks implementing autonomous vehicles into a transit system will be easier for some transit agencies, but more difficult for others, “I think for some systems it is going to come more naturally. If a system already has a people mover, or has some sort of small circulator, I think it is going to come more easily,” she said.

What happens to drivers in a fully-implemented autonomous fleet is also an issue that is being discussed in public transit circles.

“We are buying new vehicles, and they last at least 12 to 15 years,” Rank said. “We are going to need drivers for those vehicles, no matter what we do. Depending on how we integrate autonomous vehicles, we are still going to need drivers for a long time. Even after that, we still may have drivers, or at least somebody on board to help passengers.”

Snyder added: “In our most recent strategic plan, our board and our management staff, including MTD Managing Director/CEO Karl Gnadt, are in agreement that one of our main goals is to be on the cutting edge with technology. We were one of the first to adopt a CAD/AVL system, offering real-time information for passengers. We put that in place in 2004. MTD will do everything it can to stay on the forefront of technology.”

Recently, MTD has implemented an Application Programming Interface (API), which allows people to design their own apps to access real-time information.

“The API defines our data so that people can make an application.

An app might be designed to provide schedule information, or real time information, or to track district planning and mapping,” Rank said. “We don’t have an official app. We rely on people to come up with the apps they want. Rather than spending our money on an app, we spent our money developing the API, which defines our

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information, so that anybody can make an app. I think there are about 15 apps out there.

“We have a great university here and some students, who either have projects or are interested in transit, have come up with apps. We also act as a kind of clearinghouse for people to publish apps.”

Along those lines, MTD has published its General Transit Feed Specification (GTFS), Snyder said.

GTFS, developed by Google, in conjunction with several other transit agencies, is an open format that defines schedule and geographic information for public transportation systems.

“If a person uses Google Maps — we have found this is really popular — he/she can plan a trip and choose a mode of transport,” Snyder said. “If transit is selected, our service comes up. A lot of people like that as they can see, ‘The first bus will take me this far, and I can either transfer or walk the rest of the way,’ or whatever the situation.”

PONDERING THE FUTURE OF PUBLIC TRANSIT nyder, as a customer service expert, and Rank, as a planner, offered some thoughts about the future of public transportation from their different professional perspectives.

“There are challenges with funding and infrastructure issues that need to be addressed,” Rank said. “I think there is a chance that highspeed rail will take off and people will be able to connect longer distances in shorter time, which could be a game-changer. It could be that all of the transit aspects are connected, allowing a person to plan a trip from Champaign to Chicago all in one place. I think there are a lot of cool things on the horizon. Public transit is a critical component to the future of this country.”

Snyder agreed with Rank’s assessment, but also sees a challenge in

trying to connect with people to tell public transit’s story.

“Because of the internet, social media and all the television channels, people are going deeper into their own bubbles,” she said. “As a result, trying to reach people to persuade them to ride transit is difficult.

“I think transit must meet the challenge to tell its story. We can’t outrun congestion. Nobody is enacting funds for highways, etc., and road usage continues to go up. So, we must find a way to reach people and persuade them that public transit is a viable option.

“The airlines did it. People don’t say, ‘I don’t want to get on an airplane with all those people.’ We do it because it is a good way to travel. I think transit can be the best way to travel, which can include highspeed rail and inventive planning. We have to find a way to better communicate and tell our story.”

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The annual event will take place January 610 at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center, located in downtown San Antonio, along the banks of the famous River Walk.

“This year’s UMA Motorcoach Expo will include a large tradeshow featuring a variety of exhibitors, educational seminars and networking opportunities. All events will take place at the convention center unless otherwise noted,” according to UMA. “As the new president and CEO of the United Motorcoach Association, I’ve spent the past months meeting many UMA members at regional meetings and industry events. I am proud to invite everyone to take part in what I believe will be an extraordinary Expo experience,” UMA President & CEO Stacy Tetschner said. “UMA leadership and staff are hard at work creating an event designed to help prepare members of this industry for 2018 and beyond, allowing them to better face new challenges and seize new opportunities. I cannot wait to see everyone in San Antonio.”

Registration is open from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, January 6, for this year’s UMA Motorcoach Expo. A complimentary shuttle service from San Antonio International Airport to UMA host hotels will be available from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Additionally, the UMA State Association Summit is scheduled from 1 to 5 p.m. on Saturday. State and regional transportation leaders will discuss topics involving specific issues at the summit. Panelists will also share ideas, recent successes and strategies for best addressing important issues.

Also on Saturday is the UMA Welcome Reception, open to all association attendees.

It’s scheduled from 6 to 8 p.m.

Sunday, January 7, starts with UMA registration from 7:30 a.m. to 6:45 p.m. There will be a continental breakfast from 8 to 8:30 a.m.

The UMA Expo Opening, Legislative and

UMA EXHIBIT HALL HOURS January 7– 9

Sunday Sneak Preview 4:30 to 6:45 p.m.

Monday 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Tuesday 9 a.m. - Noon

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January/February 2018

Regulatory Update & UMA Active Member Meeting is scheduled from 8:30 to 11 a.m.

Meanwhile, the UMA Maintenance Interchange will take place from 9:30 a.m to 4:30 p.m. on Sunday. This event features motorcoach owners, operators and maintenance personnel discussing a large variety of maintenance issues.

The first group of four UMA Concurrent Solution Sessions is scheduled from 11:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. on Sunday. They are: n When To Outsource And When To Hire (Marketing); n Rather Be Fishing? Preparing The Next Generation To Run Your Business (Finance); n Generational Differences: Bridging Generational Gaps (Operations); n OK, You Have Wi-FI ... What’s Next? How To Manage Your Technology Once It’s Installed (Technology); n Small Fleet Operators Session 1: “I Do” ... How To Grow Wedding Transportation Revenue (Marketing); n Small Fleet Operators Session 2: Local Service Through Paratransit Contracts (Marketing).

A UMA Associate/Travel Partner Membership Meeting is also scheduled for 11:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. on Sunday, followed by the UMA Luncheon from 12:30 to 1:45 p.m. The luncheon will include keynote speaker Les McKeown, an entrepreneur and author of Predictable Success.

The second group of UMA Concurrent Solution Sessions is scheduled from 2 to

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3 p.m. on Sunday. They are: n Generational Differences: How To Market Your Business To Different Groups (Marketing); n A Financial Scorecard - Do You Know Your Score? (Finance); n ELDs Chapter 2 - The Bad News Is, You Are Required To Have Them. The Good News is, They Aren’t All That Bad (Technology/Operations); n Small Fleet Operators Session 1: Minority-Owned Businesses And The Small Business Administration (Management); and, n Small Fleet Operators Session 2: Regulatory Update For Small Fleets (Regulatory).

An extended UMA Solution Session for operations is set for 2 to 4 p.m. on Sunday. It’s titled, “What’s Hot, What’s Not: Just Staying Ahead Of The Curve — Industry Executives Discuss Today’s Hot Topics, Challenges, and Solutions.

The third group of UMA Concurrent Solution Sessions on Sunday is slated for 3:15 to 4:15 p.m. They are: n Getting Involved - Marketing And Business Development By Engaging In Your Local Community (Marketing); n Are You Working Harder And Making Less? — Learn How To Make More (Finance); n You Could Be Attacked: Cybersecurity And Other Threats That Could Leave Your Company Paralyzed (Technology): n Small Fleet Operators Session 1: Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) There’s More? ( Operations); and, n Small Fleet Operators Session 2: Familiarization Tours = Big Profits (Marketing).

Sunday will also include the UMA Expo Exhibit Hall Sneak Preview, from 4:30 to 6:45 p.m. Exhibitors will give demonstrations and showcase various industry products and services during the sneak preview. A ribbon cutting ceremony will be held from 4:15 to 4:30 p.m.

Also scheduled for 4:30 to 6:45 p.m. on Sunday 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 on Sunday evening. They are the UMA Expo Sneak Preview After-Party, as well as the separate Go Motorcoach Annual Fundraiser.

The 2018 UMA Motorcoach Expo on Monday, January 8, will begin at 7:30 a.m. with the UMA Maintenance Competition.

This event lasts until 11 a.m., and provides participants with a chance to compete against each other to solve different maintenancerelated issues.

The second annual UMA International

Driver Competition will also take place Monday morning, at a time and site to be determined.

Monday’s UMA Expo registration is scheduled from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Meanwhile, a continental breakfast will be offered from 8:15 to 8:45 a.m.

The fourth and final UMA Concurrent Solution Sessions are scheduled on Monday from 8:45 to 9:45 a.m. They are: n Ask The Experts On Regulations - New & Old - Everything You Wanted To Know, But Were Afraid To Ask;

n How To Find Drivers; n Marijuana 101: How To Navigate The Differences Between State And Federal Law; n Risky Business: The Other Side Of Risk You May Not Know About As Operators; and, n I’ll Be Fine ... How To Implement A Driver Fatigue Management Program.

Also during Monday 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 Monday, allowing attendees to visit with vendors. Lunch will be

See us at UMA Expo Booth #1040 January/February 2018

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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 Monday, from 10:15 a.m. to 5 p.m., are several UMA Education Sessions. Topics and specific times will be announced at a later date.

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

Monday’s final event will be the UMA Leadership Awards Celebration, scheduled from 6:30 to 11 p.m. This will include a reception, dinner, presentation of awards and cigars/cordials.

The final day that the exhibit hall will be open for the 2018 UMA Motorcoach Expo is Tuesday, January 9. 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 Tuesday, while a brunch is scheduled from 10 a.m. to noon.

Both events will again be located in the exhibit hall.

Also on Tuesday will be several UMA Education Sessions in the exhibit hall, from 9 a.m. to noon. Topics and specific times will be

Educational seminars are a popular feature of Motorcoach Expo.

announced at a later date. On the same day, the UMA Member Bus Operations Site Visit is scheduled from 12:15 to 2:15 p.m., at Star Shuttle & Charter, in San Antonio.

A complimentary shuttle service from UMA host hotels to the San Antonio International Airport is available from 2 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday.

The 2018 UMA Motorcoach Expo will officially conclude on Wednesday, January 10, with the 14th Annual Ray Dupuis Memorial

Golf Tournament, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. The event will help support the Clarence Cornell School of Business as well as the Bus & Motorcoach Academy Scholarship Program.

A complimentary shuttle service from UMA host hotels to the San Antonio International Airport will also be offered on Wednesday, from 4 to 11 a.m.

Visit www.motorcoachexpo.com for more information. Dates, times and events are subject to change.

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January/February 2018

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During APTA EXPO

Alexander Dennis Unveils Extended Product Range “Alexander Dennis Inc., (ADI) continues to increase its North American product range, manufacturing footprint, support network and team with an investment exceeding $20 million since the last APTA Expo in 2014,” according to a press release.

ADI’s exhibits included two variants of the Enviro500, and the Enviro200, a single deck feeder bus. Two Enviro500 double decks also provided delegate shuttle service from hotels to the Georgia World Congress Center.

“The high passenger capacity Enviro500 is already proving its value in cities around the world. In America alone, close to 1,000 of these vehicles form the backbone of fleets in Seattle, Las Vegas, San Francisco, New York, Ottawa, Victoria and Toronto. Working in partnership with the customer, these commuter vehicles are designed with a range of options and specification customized to meet local requirements and the customer’s operational objectives. The Enviro500 exhibit at APTA, one of a fleet of 32 vehicles owned by Sound Transit, is an example of the high level of specification that makes these vehicles a favorite with passengers, transit agencies and operators.

“This model, the Enviro500 SuperLo, at a height of less than 13-feet, transforms the interurban transport landscape in cities with height restrictions. Because of engineering and

chassis design, the SuperLo’s height saving has been achieved while maintaining spacious interior saloon dimensions, for passenger comfort.

The fully accessible Enviro500 SuperLo vehicles carry up to 81 seated-passengers in a contemporary environment with reclining seats, individual reading lights, armrests and air vents. The 212 cubic-foot luggage compartment completes the layout of this interurban commuter vehicle.”

Since a joint venture in the spring of 2017, ADI also said it has taken back full ownership of the development, design, manufacture and support for the Enviro200 in North America.

ADI’s extended product range has seen a multimillion dollar investment in the company’s North American manufacturing hubs in Nappanee, IN, and Toronto, Canada.

The company said that providing class-leading aftermarket support is a core focus for ADI, and investment has also been targeted to the company’s parts hubs, which total more than 30,000 square-feet, located in Nevada, Ottawa and Toronto. These facilities carry $7.5 million in parts — on the shelf.

CEO Colin Robertson said, “We are more than doubling output from our manufacturing sites in America to be able to deliver our range of vehicle solutions, which not only respond to our customers’ operational needs and applications, but also delight their passengers, in turn increasing bus ridership. We have an ongoing multimillion dollar product development program to continue to stay at the forefront of our sector and see plenty of opportunity for the durable, reliable, fuel efficient vehicles we offer. The best is yet to come.”

ADL has offices in the USA, Canada, Mexico, the UK, Germany, Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia and New Zealand.

For information, contact Jacqueline Anderson, a group marketing director, at +44 7796 715 607 or email jacqueline.anderson@alexander-dennis.com.

See us at UMA Expo Booth #645 January/February 2018

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“Adopt An Innovator” Business Model

Always Learning, Adapting And Constantly Evaluating

By Harrell Kerkhoff, Busline Magazine Editor

O

perating a company is hard work.

Helping that company grow through new ideas, innovations and directions can be even harder but also very rewarding — even life changing — if successful.

Dr. Sean Siebert has successfully guided business owners/managers not only to survive, but thrive, in today’s changing business landscape.

Siebert, a longtime entrepreneur, is founder and CEO of the strategic management firm Invent Yourself, LLC, and is based in Cuba, MO. He is also the creator of the “Adopt An Innovator” business model for rural community re-development, and is involved with the Ideas & Innovation Summit, focusing on education, innovation and economic development in rural America. The summit’s participants are mainly young people, and it has been described as a generationalimpacting event.

Siebert focuses on community innovation and development. One of his major goals, as a professional business consultant, is showing people how entrepreneurship should be viewed as a “mindset,” rather than an “occupation.”

Siebert, who holds a Ph.D., in management, concentrates on decision-making theories. He has not only worked with a variety of business leaders and companies over the years, through the implementation of specific business programs, but also authors a publication, The Weekly Win, with an established reader base in the thousands for each publication.

At a presentation in St. Louis, MO, attended by Busline Editor Harrell Kerkhoff titled, “The First Time That Man Saw Fire,” Siebert asked attendees, to imagine what it was like, thousands of years ago, when the very first person actually saw fire.

“That person may have thought, ‘What is this? Can I touch it? Can I put it in a Page 46

BUSLINE

box? What do I do with this?’” Siebert said, adding that the same type of questions are often asked by people today, when challenged with a new idea.

“Some people might not like your new idea. They may look at that concept strangely, as if they have just seen fire for the first time,” Siebert said. “I travel into communities and help people, including business owners/managers, rethink what it means to exist in the 21st century, and how to better take advantage of new ideas.”

This is done, he added, by attacking people’s established filters, and helping them to “unlearn.”

“For many people at a certain stage in life, it’s not so much about what they need to ‘learn,’ it’s more about what they need to ‘unlearn,’” Siebert said.

He added that, while running their companies, many established business leaders may have certain key processes in place that have been in existence for 20, 30, 40 or more years. The problem is, these processes can actually keep companies from being competitive in the 21st century.

Thus, these business leaders often must “unlearn” certain parts of the status quo.

He also addressed the importance of the term “small bets,” which relates to the process of how people look at growth strategies and opportunities. He said often in life, there is no such thing as success or failure, but rather it’s all about learning and adapting.

“The whole idea behind ‘small bets’ centers around the importance of constantly evaluating what you do, and trying new things. Most people are not afraid to try something new if it’s perceived to be ‘small,’ because they don’t care as much if it works or doesn’t work. They just want to learn from it, recognizing that knowing what is wrong about something is just as important as knowing what is right.

Knowing what not to do is equally as valuable as knowing what to do,” Siebert said. “‘Small bets’ focuses on always learning, adapting and constantly evaluating.”

January/February 2007

And then there is the “Pleasantville Moment,” which simply refers to that exact moment in time when a person, such as a business owner, realizes the power of his or her good idea. The phrase “Pleasantville Moment” refers to the 1998 film, Pleasantville, where its characters are shown in black and white until they have their own “Pleasantville Moment,” and instantly are shown in color.

“I love to work with people and see when their ‘Pleasantville Moment’ takes place,” Siebert said.

GOOD IDEAS/GAME CHANGERS

O

ne of several business-related programs focusing on innovation and business growth that Siebert has been involved with over the recent past, is an entrepreneurship program that involves local community members, including business owners.

Much of his presentation highlighted the recent success of several program participants who reside and/or work in and around Cuba, MO, a town of approximately 3,400 people, located 84 miles southwest of St. Louis.

Siebert shared the stories of these individuals and the lessons learned from their successes. Such examples were: • The towing operator, who works as a municipal dump truck operator and wanted to start a towing business on the side.

Through the entrepreneurship program, the man found that he could find more business if he offered his towing services to all types of vehicles and large items, not just stranded automobiles. This included the towing of tractors, antique cars and non-mobile objects, such as storage sheds and deep freezers; • The golf & country club owner, who came to the realization that there were many more opportunities available in the catering end of her business than simply running a golf course. This change in business focus led to the company’s revenues

0118Busline.FINAL_Layout 1 12/11/17 11:02 AM Page 47

increasing by approximately 500 percent; â&#x20AC;˘ The local barber and bicycle enthusiast, who participated in the entrepreneurship program so he could learn how to build a new bike trail in the area. Instead, he found a better opportunity by organizing a yearly bike race in the Cuba, MO, area. The race recently attracted nearly 200 participants, and generated approximately $30,000 in local business revenue; â&#x20AC;˘ The doughnut maker, who was discouraged at first when he was not able to rent a particular building to make his products, but then had the idea to build his own doughnut food trailer. He has since found much success by participating in local festivals, fairs and other events to make and sell doughnuts. The man has also been able to partner with the local school district, helping with various fund-raising programs involving his doughnuts; â&#x20AC;˘ The local woodworking company, which discovered â&#x20AC;&#x153;itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not about what you can make, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about what customers want to buy,â&#x20AC;? and therefore started to widen its product line to include such items as custom caskets; â&#x20AC;˘ The baseball glove doctor, who during

his spare time has found much success traveling to various baseball and softball tournaments to fix gloves. He also provides customized work with gloves, such as using color lacing to match a teamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s uniforms. His overall endeavor has become so successful that it may lead to a full-time career; â&#x20AC;˘ The local shoe store owner, who was able to greatly improve his revenue base by expanding his storeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s online presence, as well as becoming a custom-order work boot provider for various customers; â&#x20AC;˘ The Osage Trail enthusiast, who was able to organize the building of a large monument dedicated to the Osage Native American tribe that once lived in Missouri.

His efforts have led to a revived relationship between the state of Missouri and the Osage Nation, which is based in Oklahoma. It has also led to an offer by leaders of the Osage Nation to build a casino in Cuba, which, if agreed to, could include a $160 million capital investment in the area and eventually 400 new jobs; and, â&#x20AC;˘ The local winery, whose owner came to the realization that its most requested items were not actually wine-related, but instead were various pizzas that the com-

pany also sold, helping refocus the wineryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s business goals.

Other success stories that Siebert shared through his work with local community members included the college student who, in her spare time, paints different designs on canvas shoes, and has now sold them to customers located on every continent, except Antarctica. The net result was over $50,000 in sales. There is also the local high school student, who went from making minimum wage at a grocery store to operating his own power washing business. This has allowed him to average $900 a week during the summer by power washing houses, sidewalks, driveways, etc.

The summary of all of these success stories, according to Siebert, is the ability of each person/company to â&#x20AC;&#x153;attack his/her filters,â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;unlearnâ&#x20AC;? past ways of doing certain things, and taking advantage of â&#x20AC;&#x153;small betsâ&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x201D; all leading to specific â&#x20AC;&#x153;Pleasantville Moments.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;For many people and companies, I find itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s more difficult for them to â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;unlearnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; something than it is if they were starting a business from scratch. Many people donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t Continued On Page 49

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See us at UMA Expo Booth #606 January/February 2007

BUSLINE

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ABC Delivers Buses Chariots For Hire “When we asked friends and family to recommend a good limousine company in the Washington, D.C. area, people couldn’t remember who they used, because the names were so nondescript, and the service often mediocre,” said Chariots For Hire’s Courtney West. “My partner Jeff Dausch, an accountant by trade, my uncle, Mike Fortkort, a lawyer, and I started Chariots For Hire in 2002, convinced that we could offer better service in the Washington, D.C., area.”

They, along with some friends, pooled their money and bought a 10-passenger black limousine and started, what they thought, would be a “side business” providing limousines for friends’ weddings, sporting events and nights on the town.

Within two years, they had 10 vehicles and, according to West, realized they had to become a diverse transportation company.

Within a short time, they won a large contract that required coaches, so the company moved into the motor coach business.

Chariots’ (www.chariotsforhire.com) customer base includes those interested in Washington, D.C.’s, nightlife and tourism. The company also

offers tours of Virginia’s wineries. It does corporate work, shuttles and airport transfers as well as luxury charters. In addition it works with BestBus (bestbus.com) providing scheduled service from the D.C. area to New York and the Delaware beaches.

Chariots’ fleet has grown to 80 vehicles, consisting of 17 motorcoaches, 13 limousine buses, 11 limousines and 39 shuttle buses.

West said, “We have purchased 10 new coaches in the last year to try and keep up with growth and demand.”

According to Ryhan Cornell, ABC account

manager, “Chariots added 6 Van Hool CX45s at the end of 2016, and 2 CX45s this year, as well as one 40-passenger CX35.”

The two newest 56-passenger CX45s are powered by Detroit 450 HP DD13 engines coupled to Allison B500 6-speed automatic transmissions. They feature an entertainment system with six video monitors, 110volt outlets, Van Hool’s rear passenger window and seating with leather trim.

One is ADA equipped with a wheelchair lift. They also have Van Hool safety features including 3-point seatbelts, backup camera, lane departure warning, antilock brakes, tire pressure monitoring, fire suppression systems, automatic stability control, daytime running lights, curbside lighting and adaptive static aiming lights.

ABC Companies provides product and services including new and preowned full-size highway coach equipment and specialty vehicles. The company offers an after-sale network for service and repairs, collision services, OEM and aftermarket parts needs for transit, motorcoach and heavy-duty equipment from 10 locations throughout the U.S. and Canada.

For more information, call 800-222-2875 or visit www.abc-companies.com.

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See us at UMA Expo Booth #751 Page 48

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January/February 2018

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0118Busline.FINAL_Layout 1 12/11/17 11:02 AM Page 49

Dr. Siebert: Continued From Page 47

want to change. They say, ‘We have been doing it this way for a long time, and have been doing it well,’” Siebert said.

He added, however, it’s important to adapt to the 21st century, and ask oneself, “What is inhibiting my future growth, and what can be done to make the growth process easier?”

THE NEXT GREAT IDEA

Public Relations Awards For Cincinnati Metro Cincinnati, OH’s, Metro recently received two regional public relations awards at the annual Cincinnati Blacksmith Awards, hosted by the Public Relations Society of America, Cincinnati Chapter. Cincinnati Metro said the Blacksmith Awards recognize “effective and innovative” public relations work in the Cincinnati region.

Cincinnati Metro was honored with two Awards of Excellence. One award was for the launch of the Cincy EZRide app, which allows users to plan trips and buy tickets online. The transit system released its Cincy EZRide app in September 2016, and now has more than 24,000 users.

Cincinnati Metro received another Award of Excellence for its work promoting and planning the grand opening of the Cincinnati Bell Connector, the city’s streetcar. Cincinnati Metro, which manages the streetcar, hosted a grand opening event featuring free rides and appearances by local celebrities, mascots and current and former elected officials, as well as performances from artists and musicians and discounts and special deals for riders at businesses along the streetcar route.

A

key objective for every person who runs a company, according to Siebert, should be to “constantly manage new ideas.” These ideas often come from employees, customers and/or a wide variety of other people.

“It’s easy to say, ‘Innovation should become the norm,’ but often hard to follow through with this thought, particularly for companies that don’t want to really change,” he said, adding that meaningful change often only occurs when a company is trying to get through a particular crisis.

“The question then becomes, ‘How does a company avoid crisis moments in the first place?’ Well, if it can embrace the importance of innovation and new ideas early on, hopefully, it never gets to that crisis point,” he said. “We are all stubborn in our own ways, and we all like to get comfortable. This is what we see in the workforce every day. The problem is, many employers are struggling to find out what makes their younger workers tick.

“What I have found as the common denominator is ‘innovation.’ If you can embrace people’s ideas from any age group and demographic, and from any socioeconomic status, it better locks employees into what you want to accomplish, as a company.”

He added that there is a story and purpose behind every product or service that a company offers. At some point, each originated from an idea. Understanding the process of “idea to implementation” is important, particularly for millennials.

“They (millennials) want to know that everything they do has purpose, adds some type of value and is meaningful,” Siebert said. “If you (as a business owner) can help them understand the ‘idea to implementation’ process better — and that it’s an important part of their role with the company — this can lead to ‘the next big innovation.’”

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Brown Industries Is Now Manufacturer Of American Heritage Line Of Trolleys For Specialty Vehicles â&#x20AC;&#x153;The partnership between Specialty Vehicles and Brown Industries has now become official.

Brown Industries in Lawrence, KS, is now the manufacturer of the American Heritage line of trolleys for Specialty Vehicles, the exclusive domestic and international distributor,â&#x20AC;? according to a press release.

Dane Jennison, president of Brown Industries, said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is a perfect match combining the industry experience and sales capacity of SVI with the manufacturing expertise of Brown. While it has been a challenge to start a new product line of this magnitude from scratch, I am proud to say that we are making tremendous progress. With an eight-man engineering department, and the recent startup of our dedicated trolley second shift, we will have a competitive lead time.â&#x20AC;?

Nancy Munoz, CEO of Specialty Vehicles, said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are thrilled about the new relationship with Brown Industries. With their experience, capabilities and willingness to build high quality vehicles for the trolley industry, we are looking forward to a successful rela-

tionship while providing beautiful trolleys for every type of application.â&#x20AC;?

According to the release, last summer Specialty Vehicles started the trolley discussion with Brown Industries. After shifts in the industry, Specialty Vehicles needed a manufacturer, and Brown was interested in building trolleys. Following several meetings, factory visits, phone calls and planning hours, Brown started on the first units last fall. Several trolleys have been completed and delivered, and more are in production.

Brown Industries manufactures both frontengine and rear-engine trolleys, with seating from 18 - 40 passengers, built on either a Ford or Freightliner chassis, with a variety of fueling options and ADA accessibility.

Aesthetic options such as a conductorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s platform, brass or stainless steel stanchions, single or dual door entries, a variety of seating configurations and a multitude of upgrades are also available.

Brown Industries has been manufacturing van bodies and custom truck equipment for over 70 years, with manufacturing facilities in Lawrence, KS, and Henderson, CO. Van bodies have typically been the backbone of Brownâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s business, but the company also manufactures custom products.

Specialty Vehicles is a family owned and operated Nevada-based business providing trolleys, trams and mini electric vehicles for the last 35 years.

For more information, visit www.specialtyvehicles.com.

Powerful non-staining, self-mixing packet to deodorize your bus lavatory 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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BYD Electric Buses Start Operation In TranSantiago, Chile The first two, 100 percent electric, buses in the history of Santiago’s (Chile) public transport began operating with an inauguration ceremony witnessed by Minister of Transportation, Paola Tapia; Minister of Energy, Andrés Rebolledo; and Minister of Environment, Jorge Canals.

have another 90 of these buses circulating.

Our embrace of this technology prioritizes passengers, which forms the basis of the bidding process.”

Canals said, "The metropolitan region suffers increased pollution problems during winter, largely by emissions from mobile sources. Therefore, the incorporation of these electric buses comes as a cleaner alternative in urban transport. It is important to emphasize that a vehicle during traffic congestion contaminates four times more than one circulating normally.”

Tamara Berríos, BYD’s country manager in Chile, said, "One single electric bus prevents the equivalent of emissions and pollution from 33 gasoline vehicles. So far, BYD has supplied 27,000 pure electric buses to over 200 cities worldwide, so we are confident that our experience and maturity in this sector will ensure we can successfully deliver a high quality service that will set a new standard of comfort for users and city dwellers in Chile.”

BYD Company Ltd. is a high-tech multinational company based in Shenzhen, China.

Since its establishment in 1995, the company has expanded to include operations in over 50 countries and regions.

For more information, visit www.byd.com.

APTA New President/CEO

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Tapia said, "Electromobility is not the future; it is the present we are living today in the capital’s transportation system. We are moving forward in providing quality for users by incorporating the electric buses today, fulfilling the commitment to offer more comfort, greater service efficiency and care for the environment. In 2018 we will

The American Public Transportation Association's (APTA) board of directors has named Paul P. Skoutelas as the association’s new president and CEO, effective January 8, 2018.

“Skoutelas has been a highly successful and respected national leader in the public transportation industry for more than 40 years. He served as CEO of public transit systems in Pittsburgh and Orlando, and most recently as senior vice president of WSP USA, an architectural and engineering firm,” according to an APTA press release.

The appointment is the culmination of a search process by a task Paul P. Skoutelas force of APTA members, chaired by Immediate Past Chair Doran J. Barnes, CEO of Foothill Transit. For more information, visit www.apta.com.

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BYD Pure Electric Buses operate in TranSantiago.

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PEOPLE IN THE NEWS President Of BYD North America Honored For U.S. Business Achievement The U.S.-China Policy Found ation recently honored BYD Motors President Stella Li with its Business Leadership Award, for her role in strengthening relations between the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s American and Chinese business units, following the expansion of its electric bus factory in Lancaster, CA. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Business leaders, current members of Congress, scholars and senior diplomats, including Cui Tiankai, Chinaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ambassador to the United States, were among the attendees of the award ceremony, during a gala event celebrating the foundationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 22nd anniversary,â&#x20AC;? according to a press release. â&#x20AC;&#x153;BYDâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s job growth in the U.S. tells an important part of our story, but we could not have achieved such tremendous results on our own. Different types of government support including the federal TIGER and LONO programs, state grants and initiatives have played

an important role and demonstrate the partnership thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s possible on both sides,â&#x20AC;? said Li.

Stella Li, president of BYD Motors, Inc., is pictured speaking at the U.S.-China Policy Foundation dinner.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;BYD employs nearly 800 people in the U.S., a 20-fold increase since the company began operations in the country in 2013. The expansion of BYDâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Lancaster factory has quadrupled its manufacturing facility to nearly 450,000 square-feet, and gives it the ability to manufacture 1,500 electric

buses annually. When operating at maximum capacity, a further 400 jobs could be created.â&#x20AC;?

The release stated that since BYD entered the U.S. market in 2013, the company has accumulatively invested more than $230 million. BYD has delivered more than 150 electric buses to over 30 U.S. states, and more than 40 different customers, including Stanford University, UCLA, Long Beach Transit, LADOT and Antelope Valley Transit Authority.

BYD said it is the only electric bus manufacturer in the U.S. with a workforce represented by a labor union.

For more information, visit www.byd.com.

Mark Lein

decade at MCI, and four years with Prevost. He joins CCW as the sales manager for the companiesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Southwest Territory.

Visit www.CompleteCoach.com.

Complete Coach Hires Mark Lein As Sales Manager For Southwest Territory

MCI Names Sean Kelchen New Coach Sales Regional Vice President For The Southeast

Mark Lein has been hired as the newest member of Complete Coach Worksâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; (CCW) corporate sales team. Lein has 15 years experience in transit bus sales, including a

Motor Coach Industries (MCI) has named Sean Kelchen new coach sales regional vice president for the Southeast. Kelchen formerly was

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PEOPLE IN THE NEWS director of operations for a Dallasbased bus company that provides high-end passenger line-haul scheduled service between Dallas, Austin, Houston, Fort Worth and San Antonio, TX. His career experience also includes transportation logistics, sales, equipment acquisition, maintenance and regulatory compliance.

to Pat Ziska, new coach sales vice president.

“Kelchen began his career in 1992 as a driver for Tri-State Travel in Galena, IL, where he developed a lifelong appreciation for the MCI brand. He left TriState in 1994 for Harker’s Distribution, a food service wholesaler and manufacturer, where he held sales and transportation management positions.

He also had an 11-year career in operations management with Linn Star Transfer, a logistics company where he opened 14 warehouse and delivery centers throughout the United States.”

Kelchen studied diesel technology for two years at Kirkland Community College in Cedar Rapids, IA. He can be reached at Sean.Kelchen@mcicoach.com, or 615-852-9711.

Sean Kelchen

At MCI, he represents MCI products and serves MCI customers in Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee. He is based in Nashville, TN, reporting

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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 pro-

See us at UMA Expo Booth #716 Page 54

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January/February 2018

duce 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 Mohawk Lifts See Ad On Page 55 65 Vrooman Ave., P. O. Box 110 Amsterdam, NY 12010 USA 800-833-2006

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Email: info@mohawklifts.com Website: www.mohawklifts.com 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 hot-dipped galvanized. All of these models have been ALI/ETL certified. Omer has built KAR LIFTS up to 57’ long and 121,000 pound capacity.

Omer holds several patented design features that include a “Volumetric Control” that eliminates all electronics on the lift, and AOS energy absorbing material that eliminates the need for the lift scissors to have “slide” to eliminate stress. For customers who prefer electronic synchronization, Omer offers a four motor/pump control with industrial inclinometers mounted on each scissor. 13 Rotary Lift 2700 Lanier 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 broad line of ALI certified heavy-duty vehicle lifts, including mobile column, modular in ground, scissor, platform, parallelogram and four-post lifts. Rotary’s new V-REX vertical rise, drive-on platform lift comes in three heavy-duty lifting capacities: 44,000 pounds, 64,000 pounds and 80,000 pounds.

Available with five runway lengths, from 28 feet to 48 feet, it can be surface-mounted, recessed or flush and its design maximizes technician productivity with a vertical rise of more than 77 inches, open front and rear, and plenty of clearance around the four legs.

The Mach™Flex, powered by RedFire™ wireless mobile column lifting system, uses a remote control to lift more than 150,000 pounds across eight columns. Each MCH19 FLEX mobile column can lift up to 18,800 pounds, while the remote allows technicians to operate the lift from anywhere in the bay for maximum flexibility. Rotary’s proven MOD

Series environmentally friendly inground lift can be customized for any application and location, and is available with two or three multi-stage hydraulic cylinders to provide lifting capacity of 70,000 to 105,000 pounds.

Rotary is a Vehicle Service Group (VSG) brand. Its American headquarters and manufacturing facilities are in Madison, IN. 18 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 200 Log Canoe Circle Stevensville, MD 21666 USA 410-643-9001, 800-336-6637 Email: lifts@stertil-koni.com Website: www.stertil-koni.com Products: In business for more than 50 years, delivering high-precision, quality, safe and durable lifting systems. Supplier to companies and transit agencies, municipalities, state agencies, the U.S. military, school districts, ports and more. Serving the North American market via a network of trained distributors who provide global reach with local expertise. Suited for all bus types, including transit, paratransit, coach, tour and school. Product range includes mobile column lifts, platform lifts, in-ground lifts, 2post and 4-post lifts.

The in-ground telescopic piston DIAMOND LIFT is electronically synchronized for safety and convenience and has a capacity of up to 105,000 pounds in three-piston configuration.

The in-ground scissor ECOLIFT provides universal access to all sub-components including brakes and wheels, has an ultra-shallow design— recommended for high ground water or bedrock—and is relocatable. The platform SKYLIFT, with a lifting capacity between 62,400 and 78,000 pounds, is a clear floor lift with no crossbeams or obstructions between the lifting legs or runways. The 4-post lift offers the safety of a platform lift and a lift capacity ranging from 30,000 pounds up to 132,000 pounds. Mobile column lifts are shipped as standard with a fullcolor, high-resolution and 7-inch touchscreen control panel. Portable lifts can be used indoors or outside and have lifting capacities from 14,000 pounds to 40,000 pounds per column. 17 January/February 2018

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Amaya-Astron Seating See Ad On Page 22 Pirules 16E, Complejo Industrial 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 provide the latest in ergonomic technology and passenger safety. They fulfill the

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FMVSS and CMVSS standards for 3-point seat belts seats and provide more legroom because of their thinner seat back design, while maintaining comfort in the seat. Amaya-Astron Seating continues developing seats, which use the highest quality materials and the most innovative technological advances available today. These seats also have a large list of options to meet and exceed customersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; expectations and requirements. The most common of these are the automatic footrest, grab handle, airline style and flip-up tray tables, cup holders, mesh magazine pockets and USB/110V outlets. Amaya-Astron also offers luxury seating

January/February 2018

options such as the 2+1 seats. For sales and service inquiries in the United States and Canada, contact George Farrell: gfarr007@aol.com, or Bob Greene: bgreene45@cox.net. 18 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.

0118Busline.FINAL_Layout 1 12/11/17 11:02 AM Page 57

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 Bergen Auto Upholstery Co., Inc. 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 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.; James Newton, Director of Transport Sales 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 Aura, Aura Twist, Fusion, Vigor, Vision and Vita.

Added fabric protection comes from Defender, Camira’s triple action, long-lasting fabric treatment, which has an invisible protective shield making fabrics anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and anti-stain. As well as an extensive portfolio of stocked ranges for 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. This includes leather and vinyl; as well as trim options for piping, headrests, wall 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).

18 Chestnut Ridge Foam, Inc. 403 Warehouse Dr. Blairsville, PA 15650 USA 800-234-2734 x264 Email: atomasello@crfoam.com Website: ww.crfoam.com Company Officers: Anthony Tomasello, Surface Transportation Sales Manager Products: SAFGUARD XL fireresistant seat cushioning complies with F.T.A. fire safety criteria. SAFGUARD XL eliminates the profuse burning and known fire hazards associated with FMVSS 302 cushioning, if exposed to open flame ignition sources. Provides the fire performance needed in today’s environment. The use of F.T.A. fire performance criteria helps avoid the potential for individual and transit authority liability. This fire-resistant cushioning is available to all seating manufacturers for O.E.M. vehicles.

SAFGUARD XL represents major advancements in seat cushioning durability and comfort.

Visit www.crfoam.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. 18 CMI Enterprises, Inc. 13145 NW 45th Ave. Opalocka, FL 33054 USA 305-685-9651 Website: www.cmi-enterprises.com Products: CMI offers a complete line of interior soft trim materials and value added services consist-

ing of fabrics, leather, vinyl and urethane coated products. In addition, CMI offers lamination, die and computerized cutting, perforating, RF emboss/deboss and various 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.

17 De Leo Transportation Fabrics 53 Dwight Pl. Fairfield, NJ 07004 USA 973-439-6801 Email: deleotf@deleotf.com Website: www.deleotf.com 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 FMVSS-302.

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 ontime deliveries. Warehousing in South Carolina offers quick shipping and easy logistics. 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,

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coated fabrics and flat-woven textiles for shuttle bus and motorcoach seating as well as interior trim applications. Other valueadded services include custom cutting and lamination. 13 Freedman Seating Company 4545 W. Augusta Blvd.

Chicago, IL 60651 USA 773-524-2440 Website: www.freedmanseating.com Products: 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 57 4519 Wyland Dr., Elkhart, IN 46516 USA Phone: 574-293-3600 Email: office@kielna.com Website: www.kielna.com Products: Kiel Seats North America 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 Products: U.S. made plush and flat woven seat fabrics for transit, rail and coach seats and interiors. 17 Lantal Textiles, Inc. 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, Lantal’s fabrics meet or exceed the specifications required by the industry as well as Buy America for the transit market. Free design services. 17

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

Lazzerini Corporation See Ad On Page 56 1011 Herman St. Elkhart, IN 46516 USA 574-206-4769 Website: www.lazzerini.us 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 the 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 “living space” and vehicle seating capacity. 17

Sardo Bus & Coach Upholstery See Ad On Page 9 503 S. Main Ave. Minneola, FL 34715 USA 352-242-1313 Website: www.sardobus.com 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 brand new complete flooring, and in most cases can provide repairs on existing flooring. It offers installation at the company’s Los Angeles factory or customers can receive expert installation from Sardo’s professional Original Mobile Road Crews at their facility. These crews travel across the nation and do the installation at a customer’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

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

Willingham Inc. 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

RTC Celebrates 25 Years As Transit Agency For Southern Nevada On December 5, the Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada (RTC) celebrated its 25th anniversary as the transit agency for the Las Vegas Valley. To mark the occasion, RTC staff spent the day traveling to various locations throughout the transit system in branded community outreach vehicles to thank customers for riding.

“It may be the anniversary of the transit system, but we wanted to celebrate the people who have made our system successful - our riders,” said Tina Quigley, RTC general manager.

“We have achieved a lot of milestones in our 25 years, but I Page 58

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am even more excited for the next 25 years given the advancements in technology that will transform transportation, and transit, as we know it.”

Considered to be one of the younger transit systems in the country, the RTC has now grown to include 39 routes with more than 3,400 bus stops, provides more than 64 million passenger trips each year and is ranked as the 15th busiest bus system in the nation by the National Transit Database.

For more information about the RTC and its major initiatives, visit rtcsnv.com.

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MCI Opens Bay Area Sales And Service Center For Northern California Coach Market Motor Coach Industries (MCI), “Bystron, who has worked for a U.S. subsidiary of New Flyer three Bay Area Ford dealerships Industries Inc., has opened its as assistant parts manager for the new San Francisco Bay Area past 20 years, is responsible for Sales and Service Center. maintaining parts inventory and “With hundreds of coach delivery.” operators, local officials and During the opening event, other guests on hand, MCI cut MCI also previewed its newest the ribbon on this new four-acre motor coaches, describing the facility, creating 30 new jobs, vehicles as: and investing nearly $3 million •MCI J4500, the industry’s best in, what is becoming one of the seller, redesigned for model year busiest motor coach corridors in 2018 with extra space for best-inthe country,” according to a class legroom and comfort; press release.

•MCI J3500, MCI’s new 35The two-story, 34,000 squarefoot coach currently in developfoot Hayward, CA, complex at ment and testing; 4120 Point Eden Way, is MCI’s •MCI D45 CRT LE, the new second in California and sevD Series coach that sets a new With coach operators, local officials and other guests on hand, MCI cut the enth in North America. standard in passenger accessiribbon on its new San Francisco Bay Area Sales and Service Center.

“Featuring diagnostic equipbility; and coming soon in allment, nine service bays, a state-of-the-art parts market director, he managed 50 Budget loca- electric; and, inventory system, paint booth and OEM trained tions.

•New Flyer’s battery-electric heavy-duty “Hiibel, who is a heavy-equipment mechan- transit bus, the Xcelsior® CHARGE for the technicians, this new facility will provide comprehensive service for MCI, Setra, and other ic by training, has held service manager posi- North American zero emissions public transmajor motor coach brands. From preventative tions with two trucking industry service portation marketplace. maintenance and warranty work to complete providers. He oversees estimates, and manages The new location joins other MCI Sales and coach refurbishing and retrofits, MCI Hayward work orders for repairs.

Service Centers in Los Alamitos, CA; Dallas, “Schauer, who also worked for a Bay Area TX; Winter Garden, FL; Blackwood, NJ; Des ‘sets the standard’ for upgrades and new facilities we’ll be introducing throughout North motor coach operator as a lead technician, Plaines, IL; and, Montreal, Canada. MCI said America in the coming years,” said Ian Smart, technician supervisor and maintenance facility each location is equipped to handle collision manager for the past eight years, now super- repairs, refurbishing, paint, and body work, MCI president.

Other services available at the new Hayward vises MCI technicians and manages their retrofits with OEM wheelchair lifts and engine center include required California Department ongoing training. Schauer holds an associate overhauls. of Transportation (Caltrans) and CHP degree in diesel technology, and certification (California Highway Patrol) inspections, oil in compressed natural gas (CNG) engine sysFor further information, sample analysis, with bus-wash and lavatory tems as part of his training, including MCI and e-mail investor@newflyer.com.

Setra coaches. services coming soon.

According to the press release, “MCI has located over $400,000 in parts inventory at the site, with close to 2,400 individual part numbers (SKUs) for MCI, Setra and other-make coaches, available for expedited shipping and for immediate pickup.”

The facility’s technicians (all local to nearby areas) completed nearly a month of MCI Academy training.

According to Ron Miller, director of MCI service centers, the Bay Area team includes Mike Albertolle, manager of business development and service; Matthew Hiibel, service manager; Roland Schauer, shop supervisor; and Roman Bystron, parts supervisor.

“Albertolle, who reports to Miller, is responsible for service center’s operations, sales growth and overall customer service and satisfaction. He joins MCI from an 11-year position as director of services and facilities for a Bay Area motor coach operator. Before that, he was Budget Rent A Car System’s fleet director for the western United States and later the northern California market director. In his fleet director See us at UMA Expo Booth #1051 role, he managed some 20,000 vehicles, and as January/February 2018

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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............................................................................460 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 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 2018

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Motor Coach Industries

S H O W C A S E

Motor Coach Industries

MCI® D4005 and D4505 MCI® J4500 For 2018, the MCI J4500 coach introduces a more spacious cabin, with best-in-class legroom and capacity, to seat 60 comfortably, along with a larger lavatory and optional rear window.

Beautiful lighting throughout includes an optional programmable RGB lighting package for customizable interior color choices. Trim packages in Preferred-Spec, High-Spec and Custom-Spec coordinate with Blues, Lounge and Tech seating options, and upgrades are available to parcel rack doors and flooring in wood-grain and carbon fiber selections. A new air intake system, and a new driver dash with a highdefinition instrument panel, are advancements operators will also appreciate.

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® J4500 Length.....................................................................................................45.58 ft.

Height ....................................................................................................140.75 in.

GVWR ..................................................................................................54,000 lbs.

Wheelbase............................................................................................315.00 in.

Passengers............................................................................................Up to 60 Headroom ..............................................................................................78.25 in.

Fuel Capacity ..........................................................................................183 gal.

DEF Tank Capacity ...................................................................................15 gal.

Fuel Options...................................................................................Clean Diesel Transmission.................Allison B500 6-speed automatic transmission with prognostics capability Engine ...................... Cummins ISX 12L, 425 hp engine w/engine brake; optional Detroit Diesel 410 or 450 hp engine w/engine brake Brakes....................................................Bendix® ADB22X™ Air Disc Brakes

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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” 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

MCI® D45 CRT LE

Setra S 417 TC

MCI unveils a new standard of utility and comfort to serve high-speed regional Commuter Rapid Transit (CRT) with an all new commuter coach model. The MCI D45 CRT LE features a ground-breaking, patent-pending, low-entry and adjoining vestibule seating design for unprecedented passenger accessibility. Deliveries of the Buy-America compliant, Altoona-tested clean-diesel coach will begin in the fourth quarter of 2018, and an all-electric version will be released in 2020.

The CRT LE low-level entry vestibule, accessible by a second door at the midpoint of the coach, includes seating for five passengers, allowing for up to two secured mobility devices and an attendant, as well as a high-capacity 54-passenger seating configuration overall, with seating for 52 when there are two passengers using a mobility device. Additionally, the forward-door entry opens to an ergonomically-designed spiral entryway. This combined ease-of-entry technology improves the speed of passenger boarding and disembarking to decrease dwell time.

Model ...................................................MCI® D45 CRT LE Commuter Coach Available in..................Clean-diesel, CNG and all-electric coming soon Seating Capacity......................................................................54 Passengers Length ...............................................................................................................45’ Height..............................................................................................................138” Headroom ..................................................................................................78.25” Turning Radius..........................................................................................40’ 11” Wheelbase......................................................................................................315” Engine Options ........................................................Cummins ISL, ISX, ISL G or all-electric high-torque Siemens electric drive system Brakes....................................................Bendix® ADB22X™ Air Disc Brakes Transmission.................................................................................Allison B500 Chassis .............................................................................................Monocoque Fuel Tank Capacity ....................................................164 gal. CNG 114.6 DGE (Diesel Gallon Equivalent) Fuel Options .........................................................Clean-diesel, Hybrid, CNG GVWR ..................................................................................................54,000 lbs.

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

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

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ABC Companies

Van Hool CX45 Motorcoach

Van Hool TX Motorcoach For premium tour and charter operators, the highline, luxurious Van Hool TX takes the passenger transport experience to the next level. Enhanced and improved to meet and exceed operational needs, the Van Hool TX integrates a variety of key upgrades designed to improve handling, optimize maintenance, increase passenger comfort and enhance overall curb appeal.

Available in 40- and 45-foot lengths, the TX luxury touring coach series combines the ultimate sophistication in engineering, styling and design with a robust, reliable performance. It’s in a class by itself, delivering high traveling style across North America. The TX45 is also available with an optional second door. This configuration allows for greater ease in loading and unloading the coach.

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 Passengers with 3-point seat belts 45’—56 Passengers 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 12.0 (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-502 Steering................................................................ZF Variable Ratio Steering Suspension............................Independent Front & Tag Axle Suspension Page 64

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The Van Hool C-coach model has been a staple of North American fleets for over 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 bonus of increased mechanical serviceability.

Currently under development is an all-electric version of the CX series coaches. Pre-orders will be offered in 2018, with deliveries beginning in 2019.

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 CX45 Seating Capacity.........................56 Passengers 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 Emission—Optional Transmission .........................Allison B500 Six-Speed Automatic (Gen5) Chassis .......................................................................................Stainless Steel Air Conditioning...................Integrated HVAC System/134a Refrigerant Wheelchair Lift Option........................Braun NL-501 or Ricon (BayLift®) Steering................................................................ZF Variable Ratio Steering Suspension............................Independent Front & Tag Axle Suspension

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ABC Companies

Van Hool CX35 Motorcoach With many exclusive features unique to the small-coach segment, the 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 offer 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. Van Hool also offers this in an optional 2-door model.

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 Passengers 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 since the Scenicruiser®.

The generously proportioned steps and wide doorways provide easy access, as well as 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-ofthe-art, integrated heating and air conditioning systems with upper and lower controls at each level, provide a comfortable environment for all passengers.

Model .............................................................................................Van Hool TDX Seating Capacity ...............................59 Seats Upper Deck and 22 Seats Lower Deck (81 Passenger Capacity) with 3-point seat belts; Restroom Deletion—Add 2 additional seats (83 Passenger Capacity)—Optional Length................................................................................................44’ 4-9/32” Width ...............................................................................................................102” Height ....................................................................................................13’ 1-1/16” Engine .................................................Cummins ISX 12.0 (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 Suspension............................Independent Front & Tag Axle Suspension January/February 2018

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B U S L I N E

V E H I C L E

ABC Companies

S H O W C A S E

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.

The Sky Deck Refurbishment Option converts the proven double-deck to an open-top sightseeing bus that offers many exclusive features, including up to 85 passenger capacity — that’s 15 more seats than standard open-top competitors. The Race Deck Option is the ultimate double-deck entertainer coach, with an upper level observation deck perfect for entertaining at any event, in unique style. Also available in a conversion shell that can be customized. For more information, contact ABC Companies at 407-287-3033.

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 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 66

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January/February 2018

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...............................................................................................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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B U S L I N E

V E H I C L E

S H O W C A S E

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

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B U S L I N E

V E H I C L E

S H O W C A S E

CHTC Bus Group

Irizar

HT45

Irizar i6

Built to work: CHTC is proud to introduce the latest iteration of its flagship model, the HT45 Black Series. Proven to be popular with owners, operators, drivers and mechanics, our newest 56-passenger HT45s come with exquisite black quilted leather interiors and elegant Phantom Black exteriors, matching style with reliability, economy and safety. Whether carrying VIPs, short-haul patrons or extended-tour tourists, operators of CHTC buses will cater to passenger demand for luxury, safety and convenience.

Born from experience of the highly competitive North American transportation industry, the CHTC motorcoach utilizes high-quality, well-known American and German suppliers for its major components.

From the powerful Cummins engines, durable Allison transmissions, robust ZF suspensions, reliable Knorr-Bremse ABS and advance WABCO ECAS control systems, to Delco batteries and Fainsa seats, combined with a patented, state-of-the-art Australian Supergal® galvanized steel frame, CHTC offers high-quality, yet affordable coaches for American operators for many years on the road.

CHTC has fully qualified service centers in both Northern and Southern California, and is rapidly expanding to other northern and southern cities in the Midwest and East Coast, where parts and service will be available to operators 24/7. Call CHTC to explore these best-inclass assembled coaches, with easy terms for purchase and lease.

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.

CHTC Bus Group; 12851 S. Reservoir St.; Chino, CA 91710 Phone: 800-216-6788; Email: info@chtcusa.com Website: www.chtcbusgroup.com

INA Bus Sales; 4490 Business Center Way; Las Vegas, NV 89118 Phone: 702-431-0707; Email: mbarrett@inabussales.com Website: www.inabussales.com

Model .................................................................................................HT45 Black Seating Capacity.............................................................................................56 Length .........................................................................................................45’ 6” Width ..............................................................................................................8’ 6” Height ...........................................................................................................12’ 4” Engine .....................................................................................Cummins ISX 2.0 Transmission ..............................................................................Allison B500R Chassis.....................................ZF Air Suspension with 2+4+2 air bellows Air Conditioning ..............................................MCC Air Conditioning–HVAC Wheelchair Lift Option Yes Steering............................Steering wheel tilt & integral power steering Suspension ................................................Wide Stance Tuned Suspension

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

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