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Busline Transit Feature
Capital Area Transit System Baton Rouge
CEO Bob Mirabito
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YOU’RE INVITED!
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& Reliability Rally Join MCI as we celebrate our all-stars: the D-Series, overall top-seller for the year, and the MCI J4500, top sales leader for 11 consecutive years. Learn how Setra’s “The Sign of Excellence” slogan reflects the Daimler coach brand’s focus on perfection and aesthetics — exemplified by the Setra S 417 TopClass.
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May 13 Des Plaines, IL May 21 Winter Garden, FL June 9 Blackwood, NJ June 30 Los Alamitos, CA October 13 Montreal, Canada
X Learn how to improve fuel economy X Nominate your driving team for driver of the month X Tips on servicing Bendix and ZF systems for J4500 X Q&A on regeneration and preventing road failures X Wheelchair lift service and preventative maintenance
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CONTENTS
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IN THIS ISSUE Premier Coach Co. Provides Luxury Motorcoach Service In Northeast.......8
Capital Area Transit System Serving 430,000 In Baton Rouge & Beyond ....................18 Busline’s Buyers Guide To
Software Systems .................................34
Busline’s Buyers Guide To
Brakes & Tires .....................................37
CTAA Expo 2015 Set For May 31 Through June 5 In Tampa.....50 Busline Vehicle Showcase:
ALTERNATIVE FUEL & HYBRID VEHICLES 46 - 49
RAPID RESPONSE ..................................Page 6 INDUSTRY NEWS .................................Page 43 ON THE COVER: Premier Coach Company General Manager Randy Charlebois stands in front of one of their Temsa TS 35 motorcoaches. He and his father, Ron Charlebois, are co-owners of the Vermont-based company. See page 8.
CALENDAR OF EVENTS MAY 2015 May 30 - June 3 Canadian Urban Transit Association (CUTA) Annual Conference Winnipeg, MB Info: 416-365-9800
JULY 2015 July 18-22 National School Transportation Association (NSTA) Annual Meeting & Convention Minneapolis, MN Info: 703-684-3200
May 31 - June 5 Community Transportation Association of America (CTAA) Expo 2015 Tampa, FL Info: 800-891-0590
AUGUST 2015 August 4-6 International Motorcoach Group (IMG) Strategic Alliance Meeting Verona, NY Info: 888-447-3466 SEPTEMBER 2015 September 28-30 BusCon 2015 Indianapolis, IN Info: 800-576-8788
OCTOBER 2015 October 4-7 APTA Annual Meeting San Francisco, CA Info: 202-496-4800 JANUARY 2016 January 9-12 American Bus Association (ABA) Marketplace Louisville, KY Info: 202-842-1645 January 31 - February 4 United Motorcoach Association (UMA) Motorcoach Expo Atlanta, GA Info: 800-424-8262
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 2015 Rankin Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form without written consent of Rankin Publishing, Inc. Subscription Rates in United States: 6 issues $25. Single Copy rate: $10 including postage/handling; Buyer’s Guide $15 including postage/handling. International rates: 6 issue annual Air Mail Subscription $60 U.S. dollars net
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May/June 2015
EDITORIAL & CORPORATE OFFICES
Rankin Publishing Co., Inc. Don Rankin and Linda Rankin, Publishers 204 E. Main Street • P.O. Box 130 Arcola, IL 61910-0130, USA Email: drankin@consolidated.net Website: www.rankinpublishing.com (800) 598-8083 (U.S.) • (217) 268-4959 Fax: (217) 268-4815 Editorial: Harrell Kerkhoff, Editor Rick Mullen, Associate Editor Design: David Opdyke Reception: Misty Douglas Advertising Contact Kevin Kennedy @ 623-434-8959 Email: kevloraz@cox.net Or Don Rankin @ 800-598-8083 Fax: 217-268-4815 Email: drankin@consolidated.net
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IN AN INDUSTRY THAT VALUES QUALITY, IT’S NICE TO BE NUMBER ONE. The coaches we build are designed to win accolades from passengers. But we were especially proud to learn that Prevost recently ranked first in seated coach sales. It’s proof that our industry is increasingly committed to passenger comfort, convenience and safety. And it affirms our dedication to building coaches that deliver the superior quality that tour operators need in today’s competitive marketplace. www.prevostcar.com
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Relational Bus Systems
Motorcoach Manager
Sys2K
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Distinctive Systems
busHive
American Trans-Data, Corp. (ATD)
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Busline Buyers Guide To Software Systems 34
Motor Coach Industries ..46
ABC Companies .............47
Company
Champion Bus ...............48
Website
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Alexander Dennis www.alexanderdennis.com Altro Transflor www.altrotransflor.com American Cooling Technology, Inc.www.actusa.us.com American Trans-Data, Corp. www.americantransdata.com Atlantic Detroit Diesel-Allison www.atlanticdda.com Bauer’s Intelligent Transportation www.bauerscertifiedpreowned.com Bitzer www.bitzerus.com Bridgestone www.bridgestonefirestonemileagesales.com busHive www.bushive.com Champion Bus Inc. www.championbus.com Chestnut Ridge Foam www.chestnutridgefoam.com Complete Coach Works www.completecoach.com Crosspoint Kinetics crosspointkinetixs.com CTAA www.ctaa.org/expo Diamond Manufacturing www.diamondmfg.com Distinctive Systems www.distinctive-systems.com Dixie Electric Ltd. www.dixie-electric.com Freightliner www.freightlinerchassis.com Handi-Hut, Inc. www.handi-hut.com
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Nova Bus.......................49
Company
LaFrance Industries Marathon Brake Systems Midwest Bus Corporation Mile-X Motor Coach Industries (MCI) Motorcoach Manager Motorcoach Tire Sales.com Prevost Car Protective Insurance Company Relational Bus Systems Safety Step Service Insurance Sutrak Sys2K TEMSA Turtle Top Vanner Power VDO Willingham Inc.
Glaval Bus.....................49
Website
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www.mvmills.com/lafranceindustries 21 www.MarathonBrake.com 38 www.midwestbus.com 14 www.mile-x.com 42 www.mcicoach.com 2 www.motorcoachmanager.com 29 www.motorcoachtiresales.com 39 www.prevostcar.com 5, 56 www.protectiveinsurance.com 17 www.rbs2000.com 28 www.safetystep.net 42 www.serviceins.com 41 www.sutrakusa.com 23 www.sys2k.com 30 www.temsa.com 7 www.turtletop.com 15 www.vanner.com 22 www.vdoroadlog.com 10 www.willinghaminc.com 24
Read or Download Complete Issues Of Busline Magazine Online At: www.buslinemag.com Page 6
BUSLINE
May/June 2015
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Since its founding in 1992 with two buses, Premier Coach Com pany, of Milton, VT, quickly grew to be an important regional player in the motorcoach industry. The company now serves riders in Vermont; New Hampshire; upstate New York and New York City, and parts of Massachusetts, including Boston.
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hen my father, Ron Charlebois, started the company, his goal was to fill the need for luxury motorcoach transportation in Vermont, as there weren’t many carriers here at the time,” said Premier General Manager Randy Charlebois, during a recent interview with Busline Magazine. “He began with two coaches, and put an aggressive growth model in place to ensure the company would have two coaches for just a short time. “In 2004, I took over the general manager position. We have now have 71 coaches in our fleet. My father and I are co-owners of the company. He also runs our Freightliner truck dealership, R.R. Charlebois, Inc., and I oversee Premier Coach. My father plays an instrumental role in major decisions Premier Coach General Manager Randy Charlebois, left, and for Premier Coach, his father, Ron Charlebois, right, are co-owners of the company. such as purchasing Ron Charlebois founded Premier Coach in 1992. coaches, but does not take part in the day-to-day aspects of the company. We have lunch daily to discuss matters concerning both businesses.” Premier Coach’s headquarters in Milton is the central location for all of the company’s booking, major maintenance and operations. Milton is minutes from Burlington, VT, a metro area on the eastern shore of Lake Champlain where about one-third of Vermont’s total population lives, according to 2012 U.S. Census estimates. Milton is about 45 miles south of the U.S./Canadian border. Premier Coach has two other locations in Vermont, one in Saint Johnsbury and one in Rutland. The Saint Johnsbury location services northeastern Vermont and upstate New Hampshire. The Rutland facility services central and southern Vermont into northern Massachusetts, as well as parts of western New York, including Albany, NY. The company’s Warner, NH, office services several markets, including Manchester and Concord in New Hampshire and Boston, MA. In Potsdam, NY, Premier Coach’s facility has a strong focus on serving several colleges and universities, as well as charter work in upstate New York. Many of the areas Premier Coach services are prime tourist destinations, both to view the colorful autumn foliage and to ski in the wintertime. “One disadvantage of being located in the upper northeast is the proximity of the Canadian border,” Charlebois said. “Although there is free trade, we are landlocked in a sense because the motorcoach industry in Canada is much more regulated. Therefore, By Rick Mullen, Busline Magazine Associate Editor
Premier Coach Co. Provides Luxury Motorcoach Service In Northeast Page 8
BUSLINE
May/June 2015
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been successful, as it has allowed some of the smaller tour operators in Vermont and New Hampshire to partner with Premier Coach.” Indeed, some local tour companies have exclusive contracts with Premier Coach, Charlebois said. I Want My Wi-Fi One of Premier Coach’s foundational philosophies is to strive to conremier Coach’s primary focus is its charter bus service. Charters tinually exceed the expectations of customers. One way the company for athletic teams, both at the college and high school level, accomplishes this goal is to consistently seek to be on the cutting edge of account for about 65 percent of the company’s charter business, technology when it comes to its fleet and other operations. To help customers enjoy what Charlebois calls the “Premier Coach experience,” the according to Charlebois. “We service 20 colleges throughout our service area,” Charlebois said. company has outfitted its coaches with the latest amenities. “I think the future is very bright in terms of the public’s desire to “During the past year, we have added some fixed-route service that we are travel on motorcoaches,” Charlebois said. “Many carriers have offering as ‘d.b.a. Vermont Translines.’ “We have never had a strong focus on the tour market. One of our stepped up their games to make motorocoach travel a much more fulphilosophies is we don’t want to compete with some of our best cus- filling experience than it ever was before. There are so many things for tomers, so we have chosen to stay out of creating tours. This strategy has passengers to do while riding in a coach. They don’t have to just sit for five or six hours trying to hold a conversation with the person next to them. Now, passengers can participate in activities they do in their homes with iPads, laptop computers, etc. This makes the experience of motorcoach travel far more enjoyable for many people.” “ In the song, “Money for Nothing,” by the British rock band Dire Straits, there is a repeatit is a nice, easy to understand ed lyric, “I want my MTV.” When the song was format…and RoadLog catches released in the mid-1980s, the cable television channel MTV was still relatively new and the the violations as well.” line, “I want my MTV,” became a meme of the generation growing up watching music videos. Perhaps if Dire Straits wrote that song today, the lyric would be, “I want my Wi-Fi,” as it is the amenity that seems to mean the most to a majority of Premier Coach’s customers. “The college athletic portion of our business is the one that demands Wi-Fi the most, in addition to outlets allowing passengers to charge John Coakley Manager of Operations and Safety phones,” Charlebois said. Klein Transportation, Inc. Late last year, Premier Coach was in the process of upgrading its Wi-Fi system. During www.vdoroadlog.com that time, a customer relayed to the company the need for a coach with Wi-Fi for an upcoming trip. “We told that customer we were in the VDO RoadLog is a complete compliance reporting process of changing our Wi-Fi system and it solution that eliminates handwritten log books and should be done in time for the trip. The cusautomates your “back end” for HOS, IFTA and IRP tomer replied, ‘You don’t understand. We don’t reporting. And, unlike other ELD systems, RoadLog care what it costs, you have to make sure there is available with no contract and no monthly fees. is Wi-Fi in the bus.’ For some customers, WiFi has almost become more important than RoadLog automatically keeps an accurate, up to the bus itself.” date record of driving time, so drivers can focus on Charlebois explained that team sports charter passengers. And, RoadLog provides an instant log customers desire Wi-Fi to allow students to remain engaged in their school activities and printout that shows complete HOS & DVIR data – studies while on the road. The company’s more roadside inspections have never been faster. than $100,000 investment in an upgraded Wi-Fi Visit www.vdoroadlog.com to hear testimonials from system late last year is indicative of its commitreal RoadLog users and to find out where to get yours. ment to think ahead and, anticipate what will be needed to keep customers coming back, Charlebois said. Another “must” in the interior of a modern motorcoach important to Premier Coach’s customers is seat belts. Offering buses with threepoint seat belts before pending regulations demand it is another way the company anticiCall: (855)-ROADLOG Visit: www.vdoroadlog.com pates and embraces new technologies and E-mail: roadlog-sales@vdo.com amenities before customers begin to demand them, Charlebois said.
U.S. companies tend not to operate in Canada, and, likewise, Canadian operators tend to not come into the United States.”
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BUSLINE
May/June 2015
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thought of the things they may want or need in a bus. I think if we continue to do this going forward, it will help us remain a viable entity for many years to come.”
‘Green’ Travel In The Green Mountain State
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n addition to Wi-Fi and seat belts on its motorcoaches, other modern technologies have played a key role in Premier Coach’s mission to offer customers the best traveling experience. The company’s GPS tracking system, not only allows for real time tracking of vehicles, but also performs critical engine diagnostics.
Premier Coach’s management team includes, left to right, Service Manager Gerrit Desranleau, Sales Manager and Assitant General Manager Chip Desautels, General Manager and Vice President Randy Charlebois, Safety and Compliance Manager Sean Geraghty and Operations Manager Bob Young.
“Our customers think seat belts are important, so we have made sure the new coaches we have purchased are outfitted with threepoint seat belts. We are finding more and more contract renewals requiring seat belts, Wi-Fi and outlets in the coach. We are trying to be proactive rather than reactive to new developments. “We wanted to be there with Wi-Fi service before customers had to ask. We want customers to look at our company and think, ‘They are on their game. We didn’t even know about (a particular amenity) and they have it.’ “The same is true for seat belts. When it becomes mandatory, we do not want to be in a position where we must retrofit everything. We want customers to view Premier Coach as a progressive company that has already
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“I think the GPS system’s engine diagnostic feature helps differentiate Premier Coach because it enables us to respond to potential problems before they actually occur. We receive alerts that say the batteries are running low or the voltage is low. Such information allows us to have a conversation with the driver, and many times head off a problem.” Charlebois described another scenario where the GPS system’s live tracking capabilities could help in the event of a motorcoach breaking down on the road. “Motorcoaches are pieces of equipment and, unfortunately, every company experiences breakdowns,” he said. In his example, a motorcoach full of passengers breaks down on a trip. With the capability to track all of its 71 buses in real time, in this scenario, the company can see there is another of its coaches traveling through the
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There are some other technologies and efficiencies built into our facility. We have an area where we store up to 15 buses. The storage area is heated with waste oil furnaces. We are able to use the waste oil that our buses produce to heat our building, rather than it just being a chemical that needs to be shipped out. “These are some technologies that aren’t often thought of from a bus perspective, but Premier Coach’s office staff members include, left to right, they have helped us Operations Assistant Dani Pillsbury, Dispatch Supervisor to be a greener comGlenn Brassard and Dispatch Supervisor Joel Fay. pany, and to have a competitive edge when it comes to selling ourselves same area that is empty. The empty motorcoach is then able to quickly to a customer.� pick up the stranded passengers and take them on their way. The result is Since the company’s inception, maintaining a modern fleet has been the situation gets handled quickly, with as little inconvenience to the pas- one of its foundational principles. Part of this effort has also involved sengers as possible. finding the right type of motorcoaches that company officials believe will “We are able to see some synergies and efficiencies by having that be the best fit to accomplish the company’s goals. tracking system available to us,� Charlebois said. “Furthermore, it allows Until recently, the company had primarily 45-foot coaches in its fleet. us to look at our fleet and see areas where we can improve. We explored For many years company officials sought to purchase smaller coaches to such issues as decreasing idling to have a better green thumbprint on the meet some specific needs, and to augment its fleet of larger luxury motorworld. We talked to our drivers and worked on decreasing emissions. We coaches. buy new equipment, so the emissions are already very low, but, at the “Since 1995, we had tried to find a smaller vehicle that would fit some same time, a vehicle that is turned off definitely has zero emissions. of the transportation needs of smaller groups,� Charlebois said. “Some of “We teach operators to drive a little differently. Today’s motor- the college athletic groups we transport, such as a tennis team, for examcoaches do not drive like they did 15 years ago. If you teach a driver ple, don’t need a 45-foot bus. how to accelerate properly, the vehicle is going to get better fuel “Even more today, smaller groups tend to not want a large bus. We realmileage, which results in burning less fuel.� ly tried to find a vehicle that would fit that smaller niche group. Premier Coach’s commitment to operating modern equipment and “We tried several different versions of coaches over the past 15 years embracing new technologies also extends beyond the motorcoaches. For or so and never found one that we thought really met the needs of both example, when the company constructed its facility five years ago, it ourselves, and the customer. We wanted a smaller coach that would beninstalled a rainwater collection system. efit us from a maintenance and durability standpoint, and one that had a “All the rain that falls on the roof is collected in a 10,000-gallon big coach feel.� tank outside,� Charlebois said. “We use that water to wash coaches. Recently, Premier Coach purchased 10 new 35-foot TS 35 Temsa
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BUSLINE
May/June 2015
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cles must travel. Vermont isn’t called “The Green Mountain� state for nothing. Vermont, and areas in upstate New York and New Hampshire, contain mountainous regions. Charlebois said their Temsa coaches have large enough engines with enough power to negotiate the hills and mountains in the company’s service area. “The Temsas’ components are on the same scale as large, full-sized coaches,� Charlebois said. “Also, we operate in an area where a large amount of salt and brine are put on the roads in the winter. The Temsa motorcoaches’ stainless steel structure is able to withstand the salt and brine far better than a steel structure. We were quite pleased when we saw the stainless steel construction. “Temsa has been great throughout the entire process. Premier Coach’s sales team includes, left to right, Charter Sales Our customers have given us Reprensentative Cindy Allen, Charter Sales Reprensentative very good feedback and, most Dottie Gilbar and Charter Sales Supervisor Annemarie Elder. importantly, our drivers like the vehicle and they are helping to sell it to our clients.� Charlebois said driver participation in a company’s decimotorcoaches that company officials and drivers feel is the smaller type sion making when purchasing vehicles is an important part of the process coach the company has been seeking for many years. The process began that is often overlooked. when Temsa dropped off a demo motorcoach at Premier Coach for the “Drivers are the people who are in front of customers. They can very company to check out. Company officials were skeptical that this would quickly decide they don’t like a vehicle, and are not going to work hard be another exercise in futility. to sell it to customers,� Charlebois said. “On the other hand, when driv“Once we put the Temsa up on a lift and looked it over, it became ers like a vehicle and feel it is going to meet their needs, they tend to apparent very quickly it was the vehicle that we had been seeking,� be very good about selling it to customers.� Charlebois said. “With its stainless steel construction, we found it had In the case of Temsas, for example, the approval of Premier Coach’s that big coach feel, but in a smaller package.� drivers was the tipping point. Another consideration in the search for a smaller motorcoach was the “Several of our drivers gave us overwhelmingly positive feedback terrain and the long, snowy winters through which Premier Coach’s vehi- before we made the purchase,� Charlebois said. “We said, ‘OK, this is a
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vehicle our drivers are going to help us sell to customers, which is vitally important.’ It was at this point we said, ‘Let’s move forward and purchase a number of these coaches.’”
A ‘Sparkling’ First Impression
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he high-tech amenities and features inside a motorcoach could all be overlooked by passengers if the outside of the bus is damaged or dirty. In selling Premier Coach to the riding public, the lowtech operation that happens in the wash bay is extremely important, Charlebois said. “Once the sales process is done internally, the only thing the customer ever sees is our driver and our motorcoach,” Charlebois said. “Therefore, it is immensely important to have a vehicle that meets and exceeds customers’ expectations.” In addition to keeping its vehicles clean, Premier Coach is committed to repairing any damage to a coach, whether it is the company’s fault or not. “Very few of our customers come to our facility to see who we are, although we definitely invite them to visit,” Charlebois said. “The majority of the public sees our vehicles, and, as many have said, they are rolling billboards. The appearance of our motorcoaches is probably the best form of advertising that we could possibly have. From my perspective, to not have a coach looking 100 percent is a failure on my part. Our cleaners know very well that when people see our coaches, these vehicles have to sparkle.” Once on the road, it is the drivers who must make the commitment to keep their vehicles clean. This is a task that Premier Coach’s operators perform at a high rate of efficiency, and one for which Charlebois gives them praise. “I’m confident that when a person steps on one of our buses on the
road, he or she will find there is no slippage as far as cleanliness goes,” Charlebois said. “Our drivers do their part to ensure that this is the case. Our drivers and our motorcoaches are two things customers see on a dayto-day basis. Also, potential customers see our vehicles everyday. Anybody who sees our coaches could be a potential customer. “We want our vehicles to reflect properly who we are and what we do. We take great pride in how we keep our vehicles and the graphic scheme that is on our motorcoaches. It all is one big package. We want customers and potential clients to see us as a professional company. We think we have achieved this goal.”
‘Rogue’ Operators Present Challenge
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ne of the challenges Premier Coach faces in offering the best motorcoach experience to customers is the presence of what Charlebois calls “rogue” carriers. These are companies that play fast and loose with rules and regulations governing the industry, he said. “A majority of carriers do a very, very good job in this industry, but there are some that continually defy the rules,” Charlebois said. “They are companies that don’t want to follow rules, or perform proper maintenance on their vehicles, and we must compete with them. Unfortunately, some of them are pretty good at sales. They can sell the customer on something that they will not actually deliver. Rogue carriers are one of the largest difficulties we face. “We pride ourselves on following the rules and performing the proper maintenance on our vehicles. When regulations say a driver can only drive 10 hours, that means 10 hours, not 10 hours and 25 minutes. “To comply, on longer trips we use relief drivers, where a rogue operator might not. Sometimes we have to explain to a customer that there is a $300 difference in our price compared to a rogue company’s, because Continued On Page 40
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CHANGE HAS BEEN A CONSTANT COMPANION FOR PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION IN BATON ROUGE, LA. FROM THE USE OF MULEDRIVEN TROLLEY CARS IN THE 1880S, TO AN HISTORIC CIVIL RIGHTS BUS BOYCOTT IN 1953, TO A MAJOR ROUTE EXPANSION IN 2014 — PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION’S TRANSFORMATION HAS BEEN SIGNIFICANT IN THE STATE CAPITAL OF LOUISIANA.
By Harrell Kerkhoff Busline Magazine Editor
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To end the boycott, Baton Rouge leaders agreed to a compromise, Today, Capital Area Transit System (CATS) services an area in and around Baton Rouge that encompasses 296 square miles and has a popu- according to the African-American Registry. It stipulated that the two side front seats of buses were to be reserved for white people, while the lation of approximately 430,000 people. “CATS mainly serves an urban area. Baton Rouge is located in East long rear seat was for African-Americans. The remaining seats on each Baton Rouge Parish, the most populated parish in the state,” CATS Chief bus were to be occupied on a first-come-first-served basis. The local Executive Officer Bob Mirabito said. “Our vehicles made 3.9 million African-American community agreed to the compromise, and the boytrips in 2014 and covered 2.9 million miles. This involves a lot of urban cott ended on June 25, 1953. Although the Baton Rouge boycott lasted just two weeks, it set in sprawl. There are routes here that are 15 to 20 miles long. “The challenge of covering the Baton Rouge area is that our service motion important protest standards, and is recognized as a precedent-setregion is very spread out, and absent of a traditional grid system in sever- ting event in the history of the modern American civil rights movement. al places. Our streets don’t always run strictly north/south and east/west. It was used as a model for the Montgomery, AL, Bus Boycott of 19551956, led by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks and other famous Many of them meander.” Along with a staff of approximately 250 employees, there are around 87 civil rights leaders of the day. “This is a very historic and interesting piece of history vehicles operated by CATS. This fleet includes 68 transit for Baton Rouge, and our transit system,” Mirabito said. buses that are all 35 feet in length, 15 passenger vans and 4 As time moved along, other changes occurred with “A whirlwind specialty trolleys. public transportation in the Baton Rouge area. In May Meanwhile, the CATS “On Demand” paratransit service of expansion 1998, the current CATS administrative, maintenance and is provided by a third-party operator. Vehicles for this servhas already transfer facility was built in the city. The passenger transice are owned by CATS, which also provides the maintetaken place at fer facility features waiting areas, information and cusnance. tomer support, and passenger loading areas for 18 buses. “(The contractor) uses its own drivers and call center for CATS, a real CATS began operating buses 7 days a week, 363 days ‘On Demand,’ which averages 6,000 to 7,000 rides per transformation. a year in 1999. Extended hours were added, with some month,” Mirabito said. “CATS recently received certificaI tell people, routes operating late into the evening. Another significant tion as a Medicaid transport provider. Overall, we have seen however, that year for the transit system was 2005, when CATS became an expansion take place with paratransit. A significant numa political subdivision of the state of Louisiana. ber of corridors have been added. It’s a good deal for those we are only “Prior to 2005, CATS was operated by East Baton who qualify and use the service. It’s hard to beat door-toin the first Rouge Parish (of which Baton Rouge is the parish seat). door transportation.” quarter of a When the state legislature established our transit system Mirabito outlined three specific goals that officials as a political subdivision, this meant CATS became a involved with CATS are working on for the future, when it four quarter regional transit authority for not only East Baton Rouge comes to the overall public transportation system. Each of game. There is Parish, but seven other parishes in the area as well,” the three are essential to the transit system improving serva lot of work Mirabito said. ice and ridership for the coming years. They are: here that still The East Baton Rouge Parish Council still appoints the n Upgrading an aging fleet of vehicles; nine CATS board commissioners, and has a say in fares n Making further investments in technology within the needs to be and the transit system’s route structure. transit agency; and, done.” In 2012, voters in Baton Rouge and nearby Baker, LA, n Improving the overall infrastructure at CATS, including approved a property tax measure for dedicated funding. possible upgrades and/or changes to the transit system’s — CATS CEO This is good for a 10-year period, ending in 2022. Bob Mirabito headquarters and other locations. Due to this passage, officials at CATS were able to “The ultimate goal is to provide the best service possible expand the transit system’s service. In March 2014, 19 of for all of our customers, including new choice riders. A whirlwind of expansion has already taken place at CATS, a real transfor- the 20 bus routes had changes implemented, and 10 additional routes mation,” Mirabito said. “I tell people, however, that we are only in the first were added. Five transit hubs are now used to improve efficiency and quarter of a four quarter game. There is a lot of work here that still needs shorten ride times for these routes. “Our route expansion officially went into effect on March 30, 2014. to be done.” We also added 70 new bus operators with the help of MV Transportation (based in Dallas, TX), that we partnered with to complement our existChanging With The Times lthough it has been given different names over the years, CATS’ ing staff,” Mirabito said. “We have added one additional route since the legacy goes back to at least 1881. At its beginning, mule-driven initial expansion, and a couple more should be running by the middle of trolley cars operated as the Baton Rouge Street Railroad 2015. Our goal is to have 33 bus routes.” The expansion has also resulted in increased ridership, according to Company. Eleven years later, the Capital Railway and Lighting Company was born. Rather than mule-driven trolleys, the first electric cars were Mirabito. “I feel there has been a pretty significant increase in ridership thus used to transport Baton Rougeans around town. Through the years, CATS has evolved from a private business to a far,” Mirabito said. “I know that Baton Rouge is pretty ‘car-centric.’ It’s political subdivision of the state of Louisiana, created by a special act of hard to get people out of their vehicles here and try public transportation. the Louisiana state legislature. Its official name has changed from the Therefore, we are happy with our ridership improvement.” The current CATS service region is predominantly within the Baton Baton Rouge Bus Company to Metro Transit to the present day Capital Rouge city limits. Area Transit System. “In the past we used the traditional (route) system, where there was Bus transportation in Baton Rouge took center stage on a national scale in 1953. This was the year of the Baton Rouge Bus Boycott. It was one main hub at our main terminal, and routes were extended in differthe first bus boycott in America by African-Americans, according to the ent directions. The problem was, it could take a bus three hours to go from one side of Baton Rouge to the other,” Mirabito said. “With the African-American Registry, a non-profit educational organization. The boycott was led by Rev. T.J. Jemison, a local pastor, with the goal expansion, the process of transferring buses is a lot easier for riders, and of ending seating requirements placed on African-American people, helps people use more direct routes. The change has allowed CATS to cut passenger travel time by approximately 35 to 40 percent.” while using Baton Rouge transit buses.
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“I came from private industry in 2013. My focus has always been, ‘If we don’t have a customer, we don’t have a bus company.’ Therefore, we have introduced some things to improve our customer service focus. This includes employee incentives.” — CATS CEO Bob Mirabito Shown, left to right, are Capital Area Transit System COO William DeVille; CEO Bob Mirabito; and CFO Conner Burns.
idents without access to private vehicles. One option to help eliminate “food deserts,” Mirabito added, could involve the development of businesses that would sell basic groceries near public transportation hubs. “Let’s say somebody needs a gallon of milk. That person could take a CATS bus to a hub, do some grocery shopping, and get right back on
CATS officials are trying to make better use of the transit system’s various hubs located throughout the service area, as well as add future sites. Mirabito said he would like to see more development take place around these hubs for the benefit of riders. He discussed the issue of “food deserts,” which are areas in urban neighborhoods that feature unacceptably low access to grocery stores and healthy food options for those res-
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the bus heading for home,” Mirabito said. “CATS operates buses from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. We could provide wonderful opportunities for people to have quick access to groceries.” The 2014 CATS expansion has allowed the transit system to improve its overall reputation in the Baton Rouge community, according to Mirabito, who came to CATS in 2013 from private industry. “I think more members of the community feel CATS can positively contribute to several long-term issues facing Baton Rouge,” he said. “One issue is air quality. There is an economic boom taking place in the Baton Rouge area, particularly along the Mississippi River (which borders the city’s western edge). This is where many petro chemical plants are located. The Environmental Protection Agency has proposed possible tighter (air) standards, which could negatively impact the boom due to a lack of air quality credits.” In response, Mirabito said CATS officials have approached the Greater Baton Rouge Industry Alliance about adding park-and-ride facilities to help relieve traffic congestion in this area and improve public transportation options. “This area contains two-lane roads, and traffic is easily congested,” he added. “If we can get more people who work in this location out of their personal vehicles, and onto CATS buses, this can have a positive impact on congestion and air quality.”
term, CATS should focus on developing an all-electric fleet. In the short term, the report suggested using diesel hybrid buses. “This report is a starting point. The problem, however, is that our maintenance department, which is located at our main facility, is not large enough to work on alternative-fuel buses due to the added height of these vehicles,” Mirabito said. Other factors also point to a need to expand this facility. There are currently a number of support people who work in a leased office two miles down the road, due to the lack of space at the CATS headquarters. “These are our two biggest issues — an aging fleet and more needed space. I expect our leadership team, and the CATS Board, will make decisions sometime in 2015 focusing on these needs,” Mirabito said. “Steps have already been taken to identify costs, but there are a lot of unknowns. It’s important to figure out our financial options as there is only so much grant money available.” To help, CATS officials have also been talking with a number of private investment firms.
Fleet Upgrade, Facility Expansion Remain Major Priorities ven before the major CATS expansion took place in 2014, the transit system’s aging fleet was a concern. This challenge remains. “We currently have 43 buses that either should have been retired by now, or are close to retirement,” Mirabito said. “As a result, we have experienced a spike in road calls and breakdowns since the expansion. The challenge for CATS going forward is taking care of this issue. “There should be great importance placed on keeping buses on the road and keeping them reliable, particularly when trying to expand the customer base to include more choice riders.” CATS has made changes to its fleet recently with the purchase of several used transit buses. Mirabito said using such vehicles is not ideal, but sometimes necessary in order to keep the required number of buses on the street. With the need for a more modern fleet prevalent, CATS officials are looking at different long-term solutions. This includes the possible use of alternative-fuel vehicles. As part of this effort, the University of New Orleans Transportation Institute (UNOTI), under the direction of Dr. John L. Renne, was hired in August 2014, to study and make recommendations regarding the short- and long-term vehicle needs of CATS. The UNOTI report, released in early 2015, recommended that in the long
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“Hopefully, we can find some options. There are a lot of hard decisions that need to be made in 2015. This is a critical time as to where we are going strategically with CATS,” he added. “Fixing these challenges doesn’t happen overnight.” One CATS success story has been its Garden District Trolley service, which provides transportation to and from the residential neighborhoods of the Garden District and downtown Baton Rouge. The fares for the Garden District Trolley are the same as other CATS routes. The service operates on a 30-minute headway weekday mornings and afternoons. There is also a Saturday service. “Trolleys have helped make downtown Baton Rouge a destination place again, as well as providing transportation for those people who work in this area,” Mirabito said. “Our current trolley service was introduced in January 2015, and provides CATS with a different type of rider. Many of these people are very tech savvy. It helps that we use AVL (automatic vehicle location) at CATS.” Expansion of the trolley service is an option being looked at for other areas of Baton Rouge. Mirabito said the service has benefited from a revitalization currently taking place in the city’s downtown area, which includes both the current Bus operators for the Capital Area Transit System (CATS), such as those shown above, and old state capitol buildings. The area is also home to the provide service in and around Baton Rouge that encompasses 296 square miles. Louisiana Art & Science Museum and many festivals “This is all part of CATS becoming more involved in our community,” throughout the year. “There is now a great desire by many people to visit downtown Baton Mirabito added. “The wedding trolley service remains very popular.” Baton Rouge is also home to Louisiana State University (LSU). Rouge. And, with our trolley system, they don’t have to find a place to Although CATS does not provide on-campus public transportation for park,” Mirabito said. The CATS trolleys can also be rented for such private events as wed- the university’s students, it does have routes located at the edge of campus as well as offering its Touchdown Express bus service during LSU dings.
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CATS also provides special service to such local events as the Bayou Country Superfest — a large three-day country music event held in Tiger Stadium — and the Baton Rouge St. Patrick’s Day Parade. As common with other public transportation agencies in the United States, CATS is expected to play a key role as well in emergency evacuations and other security issues. Planning and training for such work is never-ending. In fact, Mirabito recently attended a class sponsored by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) that addressed appropriate responses to acts of terrorism. Mirabito attended with other local leaders. “We spent four days talking about the threat of terrorism in the United States. It’s important to be prepared for not only natural disasters, such as hurricanes, but also acts of terrorism. These new threats can present different challenges for any community. Public transportation plays a vital role in preparednesss,� Mirabito said. CATS employees and vehicles regularly take part in training exercises as well. This includes training that involves a local airport as well as a nuclear power plant facility near St. Francisville, LA, not far from Baton Rouge.
The headquarters at CATS includes administrative offices as well as nearby maintenance and transfer facilities.
home football games. Touchdown Express transports passengers between different Baton Rouge locations and Tiger Stadium, home of the LSU football team. “To buy a parking space (on or near campus) is $40. We sell a round trip bus service for $10 for those people heading to the game,� Mirabito said. “We transport anywhere from 700 to 2,000 people per game.�
Refocusing On Customer Service s part of CATS’ expansion in 2014, transit system officials have refocused their efforts on improving customer service in an effort to better connect with the riding public. This is an area that Mirabito said he is determined to get right.
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early. Obviously, this has nothing to do with traffic, and everything to do with paying attention to the CATS schedule and running our service the correct way. “My philosophy is, ‘We can’t be satisfied any time one of our buses is not on time.’ This is what we are trying to drive home at CATS.” Safety and the use of technology are also vital. “If there is an accident with one of our buses, this not only impacts safety, but also our bottom line. Accidents increase a transit system’s overall operating expense. It’s all interdependent,” he added. “Technology is part of the equation. For example, it’s important to many of our customers that they are able to use our mobile app and/or our Web portal when trying to find out when a particular bus is going to arrive.” The use of AVL and GPS remains at the forefront of importance at CATS, Mirabito added. This technology not only helps CATS riders know when to expect the next vehicle, but also helps transit officials keep tabs on the entire Baton Rouge public transportation grid. “It aggravates me when I see two buses running back-to-back. This defeats the purpose of what we are trying to do, which is provide scheduled service at set times,” Mirabito said. “With our current system, we can see in real time when buses start running late. Our dispatch center will receive alerts from the system, telling when a particular bus is lagging behind. We can then take proactive steps to avoid having buses operate too close together.” Using technology that accurately gauges passenger counts has also proven beneficial for CATS when trying to determine the true value of particular bus stops. “There are over 1,600 bus stops at CATS. We can now justify the removal of a stop, if necessary, due to lack of use. Every bus stop at CATS has an ID. Each time a bus visits that stop, the ID is registered. Therefore, if the count is near zero, then we know that stop is not being used enough,” Mirabito said. “It’s important to have Your one stop shop for coach, rail, and ship interiors. justification in place when removing a bus stop.” Despite current advances in technology Upholstery, New & Used passenger & Drivers already in place, the need for greater improveseats, flooring, floor structural, foam, gas ments never wanes. struts and upholstery cleaning machines. “Looking ahead, I want to arrive in the morning and have a digital dashboard available that is showing different financial, maintenance, cusDealers for Isringhausin and National Seats, tomer and operational information,” he said. “We we have a full stock of seats and parts for don’t have this capability yet. It’s one of our both brands. We also have parts for Amerigoals for 2015. “There is a desire by many to have public can, Amaya, Vanhool and Wakefield seats. agencies follow strong business principles. This is what we are trying to do here at CATS. If we don't have it, we can get it. Over time, we have made progress. We are not completely there yet, but it’s been fun working toward this goal.” Over 40 years of service to the Helping current and potential riders better motorcoach industry, all seat covers understand bus routes and schedules has also guaranteed for 4 years or 400,000 miles. been an important objective for Mirabito and his staff. This has been particularly important in wake of the transit system’s large 2014 route Any questions about your seats or other needs, please expansion. call 425-432-9867 or visit us at www.willinghaminc.com. “We held public meetings and spent quite a bit of money on printed materials. It’s important to remember that there are many riders, such as older people, who may not know how to use a
“I came from private industry in 2013. My focus has always been, ‘If we don’t have a customer, we don’t have a bus company,’” he said. “Therefore, we have introduced some things to improve our customer service focus. This includes employee incentives. “Our people are rewarded if the agency meets certain customer service criteria. Everybody in the agency is eligible. I feel it’s helped drive a strong focus to what exactly it is that we are here to do, which is provide a safe and enjoyable trip at all times.” Customer service surveys are also issued at CATS. They help the transit system keep a close eye on rider satisfaction levels. “We have seen improvements from survey results. The most important thing to our customers is on-time performance. It’s vital that our vehicles are able to maintain a schedule,” Mirabito said. “Currently, we have an approximate 75 percent on-time performance. It needs to be better. As I tell our operators, 10 percent of our misses are from being at the stop too
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smartphone when trying to read a bus schedule,” he said. “To help, we expanded our customer care hours. They now run from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m. There is somebody available during these hours to answer people’s questions. Our customer care reps use the CATS Web portal to see, in real time, when and where a particular bus is operating. They can also see when the bus is supposed to depart a particular stop. “I believe CATS is one of the few agencies that indicates on its mobile app not only when a specific bus is going to depart from a particular stop, but show, as well, the original schedule. This allows riders to know if the particular bus is running early or late. It’s all related to transparency. I always say, ‘We can do better.’ We shouldn’t have anything to hide, and it’s good to provide as much information as we can for our riders.” Mirabito added that it’s important to generate as much interest as possible when it comes to the various transit services provided by CATS. This includes the use of different forms of print and electronic media. The transit system is also active on social media, such as Twitter and Facebook. Increasing Staff Remains A Priority mong the many changes that have taken place at CATS since the 2012 ballot victory has been an increase in staff. When Mirabito came to the agency in 2013, it had approximately140 employees. Today, there are approximately 250 employed at CATS, including 160 bus operators. “The goal for 2015 is to further grow our staff. We are looking at adding 25 people — 16 operators, 5 in administrative support and 4 mechanics,” Mirabito said. “There has also been a move to 3 shifts in maintenance, which was started in July 2014.” In an effort to become more reactive to customer issues, one of the new CATS positions is called a “quality analyst.” Mirabito is the first
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person to admit, however, that the key position to fostering a positive customer service experience remains the bus operator. “This has to be one of the most challenging jobs a person can have for the amount of pay that is usually offered,” he said. “Because of this, we have worked to increase our operators pay. New hires are now paid $12.50 per hour when they start training. This is increased to $13.25 once that training has been completed. “I feel it’s still important to ask, ‘Is this a liveable wage?’ It can be difficult to attract the right people when it comes to driving a bus. There is not only the technical aspect involved, but it’s also vital that operators positively react with riders. Customers can present challenges, and our operator turnover rate is around the industry average of 35 to 40 percent. We would like that rate to be much lower.” He added that efforts continue to attract quality talent for future employment. “When it comes to operations and maintenance, the people employed in these areas can either make or break a transit agency,” Mirabito said. Along with hiring the best candidates, a solid employee training program remains a critical part to improving the success of any public transportation agency. For bus operators at CATS, this involves successfully completing an initial training program that lasts three to four weeks. Once completed, a second phase helping new operators become familiar with specific routes begins. “In addition, we provide ongoing customer service training,” he said. “Once on the road, our bus operators are subjected to ride-alongs from members of our training staff, and our road supervisor makes it a practice to conduct observations while on the street. These are all tools that we use.” In the future, video technology taken from inside each CATS bus will also be used to help evaluate an operator’s performance. “This will allow us to see what is working, and how we can improve
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our training process. This will also help identify where an operator may have a weakness so that person can be retrained,” Mirabito said. Focusing On Future Development n the wake of ongoing state budget shortfalls in Louisiana, challenges remain when it comes to transit funding. The same can be said at the national level. “Louisiana is dependent on oil revenue, and with the price of oil dropping significantly, there are shortfalls. The question everybody asks, ‘Where is the additional revenue going to come from?’” Mirabito said. “I wouldn’t be in this job at CATS, however, if I wasn’t an optimist. It’s important to find creative ways to do more with less. “I believe that if we continue to do the right things in Baton Rouge with our transit agency, more people will become attracted to our service. The driving force that will get more people out of their vehicles, and into a bus, isn’t gas prices, it’s going to be traffic congestion. Therefore, it’s important to give priority to public transportation, such as the development and use of bus-only lanes in high traffic areas.” Looking ahead, Mirabito said it’s important that CATS becomes more than just a bus company for the transit dependent. Such services as parkand-rides and the Garden District Trolley service do attract new customers. “We are exploring more options, but sometimes are constrained by our current fleet,” he said. “We are looking to implement, in 2015, an express bus route that will transport people non-stop between the north side of our service area and the LSU campus. Another express route is scheduled to run between the campus and downtown Baton Rouge.” Despite challenges, Mirabito added that future improvements at CATS are both viable and doable. Contact: Capital Area Transit System (CATS), 2250 Florida Blvd., Baton Rouge, LA 70802. Phone: 225-389-8920; Website: www.brcats.com.
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ZEPS Electric Drive System
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ADVERTORIAL
Relational Bus Systems RBS Software Covers All Aspects Of Tour, Charter Management RBS, Inc., is a major provider of Tour and Charter Management Software specifically designed for the motorcoach industry. For 20 years, RBS has been designing, implementing and supporting its premier products: GoChart and GoTour. The company serves more than 500 North American customers.
GoTour GoTour, our cloud based Tour Management Software, manages reservations, itineraries, payables, receivables, and produces management reports and customer documents for group and retail tours. Hosted in the cloud using AWS (Amazon Web Services), GoTour can be accessed using a broadband internet connection. The RBS professional staff actively monitors AWS services health, including continuous data backups, software updates, and network traffic analysis. RBS is now distributing GoTour v4 which includes “Type-to-Find” searches, PDF Reports and, GoPay, RBS’s highly secure online credit card authorization system.
GoChart GoChart Charter Management System features customer and contract management, scheduling, dispatching, accounts receivable and numerous accounting/operations reports. Modules allow companies to customize the RBS system to fit their needs. The security module is now more powerful with stricter controls, and requires each employee to access RBS using a unique login and password. User-defined permissions allow access to specific areas of the program depending on job types such as administrator, salesperson, dispatcher and driver. GoChart’s Web Manager provides reliable credit card authorization, online quote generation and notification, driver access to schedules and document storage and retrieval. This includes: • Credit Card Processing — Integrated into the RBS GoChart application; • Quote Request — Customers request quotes online by providing basic information, which is used to open a quote in GoChart. Email is forwarded to the customer and sales staff notifying receipt of online quote; • Special Requests for GoChart Data Access via the Web — Provides Web access to drivers’ schedules, allowing them to access schedules from home, office or anywhere with an Internet connection; • Offsite Backup and Recovery software and services — Designed with disaster recovery in mind. A backup client on your server connects remotely and backs up your critical RBS data daily. Only you and RBS have access to this data. Notification emails are sent each time the data is backed up. RBS ensures that backup data is properly available for restoration and maintains terminal services/remote desktop environment to which your data can be moved. You will have access for two users, for one month, while you re-establish your network infrastructure; and, • GoText — Automatically provides scheduled text messages to drivers, reminding them of upcoming assignments. Call RBS at 800-448-7001 or visit www.rbs2000.com to request an evaluation copy of GoChart, or, to schedule a demo of GoTour and start a 30-day trial. Page 28
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ADVERTORIAL
Motorcoach Manager Motorcoach Manager Introduces Flexible New Version Of Its Management Software Application All motorcoach companies are not alike. The markets vary and needs change over time. Therefore, they require software applications that are flexible, extensible, and customizable. Motorcoach Manager 1 has served the motorcoach industry for 20 years, and has a vast collection of features and reports by building variations for its diverse clients. It encompasses deep knowledge of the needs of operators, acquired over time. MM1 provided the model for MM2, our 2015 version, which has been completely re-built on a new platform and designed to incorporate all that has worked well in MM1. Data will be transferred from existing client files. Highlights of MM2 include: • Deeply integrated mapping components; • Routes created with ease as the order is initially entered; • Mileages and times calculated automatically using Microsoft Mapping Services to generate accurate quotes on the fly; • Permissions model offers users precise control over which employees are allowed to access specific aspects of the application; • Useful workspaces feature allows users to customize the layout of the application for specific tasks; • Built using state-of-the-art technology that will adapt to future operating system changes and interface with third-party applications; • Updates will be provided for all companies as the application evolves; and,
Charter Orders Dispatching Mileage and Fuel Financial Reporting
• Powerful new reporting system gives users the ability to easily customize reports to their needs and export them to a variety of popular formats, including Excel, PDF, HTML and Text. MM1 and MM2 provide a powerful blend of innovative features designed to make record-keeping easier and more accurate. They track all the changing information so operators can be ready to meet the needs of customers, employees and government entities. The software’s flexible reporting system is built on data entered one time, and organized to provide in-depth management tools. The charter and tour industry must have electronic systems for handling all the logistical components of the service they provide because they are accountable to the public and the government entities that monitor transportation companies. Fleet management software is a cost effective way to manage transactions in this complicated industry. The software is appropriate for all sizes of charter, tour, scheduled service, or maintenance operations, including companies with divisions for separate office sites or departments. Several offices can share the application from multiple locations. Motorcoach Charter Manager provides a systematic process for handling all the details of a trip order — from the initial customer call through the final reconciliation of the finances, IFTA mileage and fuel reporting, and driver payroll calculations. It includes visual tools to increase income through effective utilization of the fleet. It provides conContinued On Page 42
CHARTER MANAGER
TOUR MANAGER
Tour Planning Retail Tours Sightseeing Tours Receptive Services
SHUTTLE MANAGER
Airport Shuttles Casino Shuttles
Working Together.
Work Orders Parts Inventory Labor Services Maintenance History
MAINTENANCE MANAGER
Modular Fleet and Tour Management Software • • • •
Tracks all aspects of your operation Simplifies creating charters or tours Multiple dispatch management tools Extensive financial reporting
• • • •
Tracks fuel, mileage, payroll, drivers, vehicles, etc. Prints or emails quotes, contracts, invoices, etc. Single or multi-user licensing. Modules may be purchased individually or combined.
Call or email today to schedule a FREE online live demonstration.
800.780.6880 or info@motorcoachmanager.com May/June 2015
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Sys2K
ADVERTORIAL
Sys2K Harnesses Cutting-Edge Technology To Create Management Solutions As a preferred software vendor for the bus industry, Sys2K is proud to be celebrating its 30th year providing dealers and manufacturers with cutting-edge technology. The Infinity software has revolutionized communication flow and created unparalleled business management processes.
Most notably, the Daimler Corporation selected Sys2K for its North American Setra Tour Bus division. Similarly, numerous other bus dealers choose Sys2K to successfully manage their operations. Alliance Bus Group recently commented, “We have been with Sys2K since 2010. They have worked with our company to accommodate our needs. It has provided our With 30 years of building profitable and successful company with an integrated software package that can solutions for businesses around the globe, Sys2K handle our large volume of bus and motorcoach sales, is consistently focused on harnessing tomorrow’s our parts, service and support offerings, and our general ledger.” technology for today’s dealerships. At Sys2K, In 2013, Sys2K released the Suite of Mobile Apps designed for on-the-go business management. Last amazing advances are always on the horizon. year, Sys2K continued to expand its Preferred Partner After being sought out by Microsoft in 1995, Sys2K created the Network by establishing embedded integration with Coach-Net, industry’s first Windows®-based DMS alongside the software Novera Payment Solutions and American Guardian Warranty giant. Then in 2005, Sys2K released the industry’s first truly inte- Services. Today, Sys2K continues to pioneer new technologies and grated DMS, harnessing the limitless power of SQL Server and .Net ways to implement them successfully in the business environment. With 30 years of building profitable and successful solutions for functionality. Infinity module options include Customer Relationship Management (CRM), F&I, Parts and Service, Payroll, businesses around the globe, Sys2K is consistently focused on harAccounting, Rental, Advanced Reporting, and Manager’s nessing tomorrow’s technology for today’s dealerships. At Sys2K, Dashboard. Customizations are made within the modules specifi- amazing advances are always on the horizon. For more information, visit www.sys2k.com. cally for the bus industry.
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ADVERTORIAL
Distinctive Systems Tradition Of Industry Leading Technology, Functionality Continues At Distinctive Systems Distinctive Systems is an independent software vendor specializing in the development of products for coach and bus companies. Established for over 30 years, it has supplied hundreds of systems to operators throughout the United Kingdom, Ireland, North America, South Africa, Australia, New Zealand and beyond. Distinctive Systems is known, not only for the quality and completeness of its software offerings, but also for being an industry leader with continual new enhancements and functionality releases. Clients of Distinctive Systems routinely receive updated functionality to the products that they own. It is not uncommon to hear a client say, “I can’t believe how far your products have come in the past five years I have owned them, and I cannot imagine where they might be even two years from now.” This commitment to continually improving the offerings, and constantly keeping up with latest technological enhancements, sets Distinctive Systems apart from all others offering software solutions to the motorcoach industry. Numerous exciting additions have been made to software in 2014/2015. A few examples of new functionality added are the Google Maps Integration, an option to link existing quotation forms from operators’ websites into Coach Manager and the ability to have operators’ customers see the location of their allocated vehicle on the day of the booking.
Distinctive Systems has gained a well-deserved reputation for providing world class support to its clients over the years. Its support infrastructure has been enhanced with the addition of yet another member of the Support Services group. In December of 2014, industry veteran Laura Clark joined Distinctive Systems and has immediately had a great impact on all of the Distinctive Systems clients. The range of software is comprehensive and includes systems for managing coach-based charters, regular contract work, community transport operations, gross payroll, vehicle maintenance, workshop management, and both back office and online reservations for extended tours, sightseeing trips and shuttle services. All of the applications are Windows-based and have been developed using Microsoft Visual Studio. The success that has been achieved over the years comes about as a direct result of an unique experience in both the IT and passenger transport industries. Recent years have been particularly exciting at Distinctive Systems. Aside from new functionality being added to the applications, a Rental Option has been offered to clients for all three of the Distinctive Systems’ applications. This has led to record numbers of new client adds to the Distinctive Systems’ user base. The Annual User Group Meeting, coupled with an ongoing webinar series and expanded support services, has ensured successful implementations, ongoing growth of the usage of the applications with existing clients, and continued interaction with the publisher and actual developContinued On Page 42
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ADVERTORIAL
busHive busHive Transportation Software Covers All The Bases busHive is an industry leader in transportation management software. For 18 years, it has specialized in charter management, driver compliance and vehicle preventative maintenance. busHive Charter busHive Charter helps motorcoach companies increase revenue and reduce expenses. The software is the central resource for sales, dispatching, fleet allocation, customer billing and driver payroll. It allows users to enter customer information and get quotes and contracts out in a matter of minutes. The software also sends on contracts and confirmations to keep customers on the same page and to increase customer satisfaction. When dispatching, the system is color coordinated to show driver and vehicle availability. The software will show any conflicts and prompt users for coverage. It also warns if a driver will be put into overtime, and shows his or her hours of service. For upper management, there are built-in reporting tools to show revenue per vehicle, and even gives them a profit/loss analysis for every reservation.
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busHive Personnel Compliance busHive Personnel Compliance is a comprehensive personnel and driver training platform. This system tracks and monitors all federal, state and company personnel requirements (physicals, license renewals and behind-the-wheel refreshers). Be warned BEFORE personnel become due for requirements and avoid costly fines. It also tracks infractions, such as accidents, speeding tickets absences and customer complaints. This module has become the favorite tool used by safety managers throughout the industry.
busHive Vehicle Maintenance busHive Vehicle Maintenance helps maintain a companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fleet and keep it compliant. This platform notifies fleet managers about upcoming preventative maintenance. It generates work orders and tracks all costs associated with parts, labor and fuel. The system also tracks inventory and warns users when parts are low. Fleet managers can pull vehicles out of service, and it will alert dispatchers to create coverage.
For more information, please visit www.bushive.com.
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ADVERTORIAL
American Trans-Data, Corp. (ATD) ATD’s New Software Allows Users To Purchase Tickets Electronically American Trans-Data, Corp. (ATD) is a pioneer in providing software and consultation services to the transportation and travel industry. We have provided Key Desktop Systems, mobile websites and specialized handheld devices to the charter bus and tour industries. ATD is continuing its journey by producing all software products in-house with greater user satisfaction. Our new software, such as Airport Shuttle System and Trolley System, allows users to buy bus tickets online via mobile phone or tablet. Reservations are easily made by intuitive designed websites that can book more users at a time. ATD provides custom website design and development services for both mobile, tablet and desktop devices by integrating responsive design techniques that format the screen based on the type of equipment the purchaser is using. ATD also offers Ecommerce, logo branding, Customized Content Management System (CMS), Credit Card Payment Processing, Brand Identity Packages, Search Optimization and Mobile Web Design & Development, etc. ATD Software Systems has gone the distance of supplying Web services such as Web development, Web and user interface design, and software development for every need on the Web. ATD has produced hundreds of software projects and desktop systems throughout its history. ATD has the staff and experience to bring a customer’s project in on time and on budget. Secure tokenization credit card processing with First Data is another service provided by ATD. ATD has a team of developers with specialized skills in graphics, Web design and desktop systems. Every specialist is an expert in his or her field of knowledge. Contact ATD for details on the exciting projects recently produced by American Trans-Data, Corp. For more information, visit www.americantransdata.com.
News From Prevost
Prevost Greater Toronto Area Service Center Expanding Prevost will relocate its Greater Toronto Area service center to a larger facility, approximately 15 miles southwest of the current location. Guillaume Charron, service network manager for Canada, said, “We will be able to offer
expanded services, compared to the previous location. The relocation is expected to take place in the summer of 2015. This expansion is part of Prevost’s commitment to provide the strongest service network in the industry.” The new 52,000-square-foot facility, located at 7655 Tranmere Drive, Mississauga, ON, will accommodate up to 14 full-service bays, a large parts warehouse area, training room, customer lounge and an increased parking area. “Prevost’s new Mississauga, ON, facility is one of 11 North American service centers where factory-trained experts provide a full range of maintenance services and mechanical repair solutions to get vehicles up and running quickly,” said Darren Nippard, branch manager. Prevost is a manufacturer of intercity touring coaches and produces conversion coaches for
high-end motorhome and specialty conversion. It is part of the Volvo Group.
Prevost Names Jack Forbes Vice President Of Corporate Accounts And Commuter Sales Prevost has named Jack Forbes vice president of corporate accounts and commuter sales. He succeeds Dann Wiltgen, who retired in early May after many years with Prevost. Forbes has been Jack Forbes with Prevost for 17 years, most recently as vice president of parts sales. In addition, he has been responsible for developing the commuter market. Visit www.prevostcar.com for more information.
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American Trans-Data, Corp. See Ad On Page 33 3611 S. Harbor Blvd., Suite 155 Santa Ana, CA 92704 USA Phone: 714-751-3000 Fax: 714-751-3432 E-Mail: markmueller@alsystem.com Web Site: www.americantransdata.com Company Officers: Mark Mueller, CEO; Melissa Reyes, Vice President Products: American Trans-Data has been providing software solutions to the bus and tour industries since 1980. It provides turnkey solutions for charter bus companies to manage the reservation and billing process. ATD also provides airport and casino shuttle systems that provide both desktop and mobile platforms. The companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new shuttle system offer on-bus ticket confirmation and redemption. 15
inventory, fuel, driver, accident and risk management as well as comprehensive and infinitely flexible reporting. Chevinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s software becomes a central repository for all fleet related data, allowing organizations to manage complex fleet and operations data with a single enterprise-wide system. 11
busHive Software See Ad On Page 32 313 Ushers Road Ballston Lake, NY 12019 USA Phone: 518-877-2507 Fax: 518-602-9262 E-Mail: bmann@bushive.com Web Site: www.bushive.com Company Officers: Mike Hinckley, President/CEO; and Brian Mann, Director of Sales and Marketing Products: busHive Charter, busHive Personnel Compliance, busHive Vehicle Maintenance and Online Trip Request. 15
DDS eFleet Services Inc. 11920 Forge Place Richmond, BC V7A 4V9 CANADA Phone: 604-241-1441 Fax: 604-241-1440 E-Mail: sales@efleetservices.com Web Site: www.efleetservices.com Products: Complete solution of fleet management capabilities into a single hosted system that is delivered as a subscription service, including: GPS fleet tracking, GPS navigation, hour of service, two-way text messaging, computer-aided wireless dispatch, point-of-sale payment processing and integrated ticketing capabilities. Features are provided with minimal start-up costs, and the system is designed to be scalable to fit business needs. eFleet is personalized to the vehicle and organization it serves. Dispatchers and managers coordinate fleet activities through a web-based system that is managed, supported and hosted by eFleet. Routine tasks can be automated. Examples include: driver logs, IFTA reporting, ETA vehicle reporting, engine diagnostics, paperless ticketing, comprehensive record keeping of trip navigation, and charge and customer details. 13
Chevin Fleet Solutions 43 Orchard Hill Drive Sharon, MA 02067 USA Phone: 781-793-0788 Fax: 781-784-6894 Web Site: www.chevinfleet.com Products: Chevin Fleet Solutions, an industry-provider of enterprise fleet management information systems, provides fleet management software that enables transit, demand response and charter organizations to enhance equipment availability, safety and reliability. Included is the ability to manage preventive maintenance, maintenance management,
Distinctive Systems Inc. See Ad On Page 31 131 1/2 S. Washington St. Binghamton, NY 13903 USA Phone: 646-448-9981 E-Mail: nasales@distinctive-systems.com Web Site: www.distinctive-systems.com Company Officers: Don Greenglass, Bob Hopwood Products: Distinctive Systems is a leading supplier of software to the coach industry. Established for 30 years, over 750 operators rely on
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one or more of the company’s latest Microsoft SQL-based systems for the efficient management of their companies. The main systems at Distinctive Systems include its Coach Manager Charter and Contract Booking System, the Tour Booking System and the Vehicle Maintenance System. Distinctive Systems has garnered an excellent reputation over the years for updating its applications with additional functionality, on an ongoing basis. 15 Enghouse Transportation 80 Tiverton Court, Suite 800 Markham, ON L3R 0G4 CANADA Phone: 905-946-3200 E-mail: solutions@enghouse.com Web Site: www.enghousetransportation.com Products: Enghouse provides proven software solutions for transit including: Sched21 fixed route scheduling; TransView (paratransit scheduling & dispatch); TeleDriver (workforce management); BusLine (fixed route IVR); HandyLine (paratransit IVR); and CrewLine (operator IVR). 15 GIRO Inc. 75 Port-Royal Street East, Suite 500 Montreal, QC H3L 3T1 CANADA Phone: 514-383-0404 Fax: 514-383-4971 E-Mail: info@giro.ca Web Site: www.giro.ca Company Officers: Paul Hamelin, President; Marc Dupont, Vice President of Marketing; Pierre Trudeau, Vice President of Business Development Products: GIRO Inc. develops and implements integrated software solutions to help plan and manage public-transit operations, as well as paratransit services. GIRO's HASTUS software suite addresses bus, subway, streetcar, as well as passenger rail, and offers a modular solution for planning and analysis, scheduling, operations, and customer information. Scheduling modules include industry-leading optimizers that allow public transport providers to produce efficient vehicle and operator/crew schedules. Daily operations modules help manage changes to planned service and vehicle/operator assignments. The GIRO/ACCES software suite addresses demand-response services, including paratransit. The software manages customer registration, trip booking, trip scheduling, as well as daily operations, and is in use at agencies that provide up to 10,000 trips per day. GIRO/ACCES integrates with IVR, email, SMS, Web applications, and other systems. 15 Motorcoach Manager, Inc. See Ad On Page 29 3517 Marconi Ave., Suite 207 Sacramento, CA 95821 USA Phone: 916-972-1800 Fax: 916-972-1875 E-Mail: info@motorcoachmanager.com Web Site: www.motorcoachmanager.com Company Officers: Shirley Campbell, President; Stephen Mayzels, Vice President Products: Motorcoach Manager is innovative, flexible software which provides a complete, cost-effective system for managing charter orders; scheduling and dispatching; group, retail, and sightseeing tours; shuttles; scheduled line runs; school buses; and vehicle maintenance. The four modules, which may be purchased in any combination, are Charters, Tours, Maintenance, and Shuttles. The application is the result of years of collaboration between the MM staff and hundreds of clients and prospects. Ideas for features are incorporated throughout to make managing charters and tours as easy as possible. The software can be tailored to each operation. New reports are added for clients as needed and data is exported so it can be opened in Excel. Motorcoach Manager is intended to track all of the data needs of motorcoach and tour operations and eliminate the need for spreadsheets outside of the application. A
complete set of features is included in the software. Features such as built-in email, exporting of data, utilization charts, availability charts, financial analysis tools, tight security, etc., are either included or available. Motorcoach Manager runs on standard PCs running any current version of Microsoft Windows. Single-user or multi-user (networked) versions are available. Responsive, timely customer service is the company’s priority. 15 Norse Systems, Inc. 245 Sage Hollow Road Guilford, CT 06437 Toll Free: 800-769-8468 Fax: 203-457-8033 E-Mail: norse@norsesys.com Web Site: www.norsesys.com Products: Providing integrated software to the bus industry for more than 26 years. Norse Systems offers “Virtual Server” deployments. No capital investment is required, just a fee per user. The most recent innovation from Norse is “Screen Driver,” a complete application development environment provided with the application software. In addition to one source for system infrastructure, application software and professional support, Norse offers a set of integrated software available to the industry. A single fee per user provides a managed hardware and software solution. Applications are offered for charter sales, line run, tour reservations, school bus routing, dispatch, driver qualification, accident management, IFTA taxes, fuel management, work flow control, maintenance, inventory, purchasing and multi-site logistics, driver and employee time and pay, integrated financial systems, individual seat reservations for tours and shuttles, and more. 11 Paradigm Technology Consulting, LLC 22 S. Main Street Allentown, NJ 08501 USA Toll Free: 866-782-4636 Phone: 609-890-4150 Fax: 609-890-4154 E-Mail: sales@ptcllc.com Web Site: www.ptcllc.com Products: Paradigm Technology Consulting, LLC (PTC) is a Microsoft Gold Certified Partner focusing on human resources and labor management for the transportation industry. It is PTC’s approach to assemble best of breed solutions for the motorcoach industry, and to offer an end-toend turnkey solution that makes it possible for operators in the industry to leverage the best technology available. This is done by bringing together the solutions offered by Microsoft, Enghouse, Collective Data and eFleet as well as PTC’s own Transportation Suite. The Paradigm Transportation Suite (PTS) is a suite of payroll and labor management applications designed for operators with more complex payroll and workforce management needs including those involving union contracts. In addition to selling, implementing and supporting operational systems like CoachWorks, Paradigm also sells, implements and supports financial systems such as Microsoft Dynamics GP, customer relationship management systems such as Microsoft Dynamics CRM, vehicle maintenance systems from Collective Data, and Computer-Aided Wireless Dispatch and Fleet Management solutions from eFleet. 13 RBS - Relational Bus Systems, Inc. See Ad On Page 28 10 Lancaster Street - Box 215 Cherry Valley, NY 13320 USA Toll Free: 800-448-7001 Fax: 607-264-8070 E-Mail: manager@rbs2000.com Web Site: www.rbs2000.com Company Officers: Bob Schecter, President; Walter Buist, Vice President Products: RBS, Inc. designs, implements and supports Tour and Charter Management systems with more than 500 customers in North America. Products include: GoChart Charter Management System features customer and contract May/June 2015
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management, schedule and dispatch, and accounts receivable. Modules allow system customization to fit a company’s needs and size. Powerful, user definable security requiring unique login and password is available; GoTour Management System, a browser-based system, manages tour reservations, itineraries, receivables and payables, produces customer documents and management reports for group and retail tours. The RBS cloud-based system is hosted and backed up in the cloud using AWS (Amazon Web Services). RBS is now distributing GoTourV4, which includes “Type-to-Find” searches, pdf reports. Available is GoPay, RBS’s highly secure online credit card authorization feature; Offsite Backup and Recovery provides daily offsite data backup and features limited online access to a customer’s data in the event of a disaster; and, Web Manager modules include simple, reliable, real time credit card authorization for GoChart and GoTour; online quote generation and notification; integrated document storage and retrieval; and Web access to drivers’ orders for GoChart. Demos available by appointment. 15 RouteMatch Software, Inc. Atlantic Center Plaza 1180 W. Peachtree St., Suite 1130 Atlanta, GA 30309 USA Phone: 888-840-8791 E-Mail: sales@routematch.com Web Site: www.routematch.com Products: RouteMatch is a provider of transit ITS software and solutions. Founded in 1999, the company is headquartered in Atlanta, GA. Targeting private and public sector passenger transportation providers, the company’s products address routing, scheduling, dispatching, billing, reporting, fixedroute CAD/AVL, paratransit and fixed-route integration, business intelligence, transportation coordination and more. 10 Schedule Masters, Inc. 300-1B Conestoga Drive Brampton, ON L6Z 4N5 CANADA Phone: 905-495-5402 Fax: 905-495-5404 Web Site: www.schedule-masters.org Products: “The Master Scheduler” is a fixed-route scheduling software tool that includes: scheduling, blocking, run-cutting, rostering, daily operations/dispatch, Web-based trip planning, customer complaint tracking, performance tracking, reporting and mapping. 07 Sys2K Dealership Software See Ad On Page 30 528 Northlake Blvd., Ste 1000 Altamonte Springs, FL 32701 USA Phone: 407-358-2000 Fax: 407-358-2020 E-Mail: sales@sys2k.com Web Site: www.sys2k.com Products: Sys2K’s Infinity software is a leading solution for the bus and motorcoach industry for both dealers and manufacturers. Infinity business management sotware incorporates the latest technologies to reduce costs and maximize sales revenue. Features include: fully-integrated Windows-based software, a CRM with endless possibilities to manage and grow the customer base, comprehensive reporting and management dashboards to monitor the success of each department, mobile apps that take the power of the DMS on-the-go, and cloud hosting to alleviate the cost and hassle of maintaining a server. Infinity smoothly interfaces with other Microsoft applications, while providing a quality, cost-effective solution. Dealers can realize significant savings by implementing real-time integration across all departments: Parts, Service, Finance, CRM, Accounting, Payroll and Rental. Infinity software helps increase efficiency, reduce duplicate data entry and data entry errors, and manage operations. 15 Page 36
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Trapeze Group 5800 Explorer Drive Mississaugua ON L4W 5K9 CANADA Phone: 905-629-8727 E-Mail: info@trapezegroup.com Web Site: www.trapezegroup.com Products: Trapeze delivers solutions that consider the full enterprise of a transit agency. Whether addressing the needs of a single department, an entire organization, or the community, Trapeze provides some of the most advanced software, intelligent transportation systems and mobile technologies in the industry. Trapeze offers the following solutions: Transit Operations and Workforce Management, designed to simplify scheduling, frequent sign-ups, complex pay rules and solve other logistical headaches; Transit Enterprise Asset Management, which tracks equipment and infrastructure over time, extends their lives and keeps them safe; Automated Fare Collection designed for optimal cash management, provides agencies with modern fare media and provides higher utility to existing investments; Traveler Information delivers schedule and real-time information to transit and paratransit passengers, whenever and wherever it is necessary. Transit scheduling and planning and paratransit scheduling and dispatch solutions provide true flexibility for an agency, while Business Intelligence tools provide unparalleled views of an agency’s data, ensuring that the right information is getting to the right people at the right time. 15 ViaTour Software 200 South Main Street, Suite B Templeton, CA 93465 USA Phone: 505-466-6300 Fax: 866-587-9350 E-Mail: info@viatoursoftware.com Web Site: www.viatoursoftware.com Products: ViaTour Software is a reservation and tour management system that automates a company’s back-end workflow by integrating reservations, operations and accounting. Born as a niche market solution for travel planners in the educational travel market, ViaTour tour management software also answers the requirements of coach tour operators. This all-in-one system supports users throughout the entire tour lifecycle from proposal, costing, and marketing, through reservation processing and communications, to tour operations and, finally, business analysis. ViaTour bundles these feature sets into four application levels: Basic, Standard, Pro and Enterprise. It’s user-friendly and integrates with Microsoft Office. Enterprise, with data in SQL server, allows for Web integration, publishing and remote online access. 10
ARBOC Specialty Vehicles To Supply 35 New Replacement Spirit Of Freedom Buses To Calgary Transit ARBOC Specialty Vehicles will be delivering a replacement group of 35 new buses to Calgary Transit (Canada), starting this July. These replacement Spirit of Freedom low-floor cutaways will go to Crestline Coach, Ltd., in Saskatoon, SK. Calgary Transit currently operates over 150 ARBOC Spirit of Freedom buses which are used in conjunction with its heavy-duty buses for fixed-route service. Final delivery of all 35 buses to Calgary is expected by late summer. ARBOC Specialty Vehicles has been a manufacturer of low-floor buses since 2009. Visit www.ARBOCsv.com for more information.
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AxleTech International 1400 Rochester Rd., Troy, MI 48083 USA Phone: 248-658-7200 Website: www.axletech.com Products: Various brake-related products including drum brakes - cam; drum brakes - wedge; hydraulic dry disc brakes; hydraulic wet disc brakes and park brakes. 14
E-Mail: info@bendix.com Website: www.bendix.com Products: Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems, a member of the Knorr-Bremse Group, develops and supplies active safety technologies, air brake charging, and control systems and components under the Bendix® brand name. Markets include medium- and heavy-duty trucks, tractors, trailers, buses and other commercial vehicles throughout North America. 14
Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems LLC 901 Cleveland St., Elyria, OH 44035 USA Phone: 800-AIR-BRAKE, 440-329-9000
Bremskerl North America, Inc. 1291 Humbracht Circle, Bartlett, IL 60103 USA Phone: 800-939-4047 Fax: 630-540-2791
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www.mileagesales.com ©2014 Bridgestone Americas Tire Operations, LLC. All Rights Reserved.
May/June 2015
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E-Mail: sales@bremskerl.com Website: www.bremskerl.com Products: OE quaility replacement air disc brake pads for coach and transit bus applications; 100 percent asbestos-free RoHS and REACH compliant. German engineered quaility. 15 Bridgestone Americas Tire Operations, LLC See Ad On Page 37 535 Marriott Dr., 8th Floor, Nashville, TN 37214 USA Phone: 330-697-4497 Fax: 330-572-5039 E-Mail: webbkarl@bfusa.com Website: www.bridgestonefirestonemileagesales.com Company Officers: Warren Dickinson, General Manager; Karl Webb, Eastern Division Manager; Joeseph Leipart, Western Division Manager Products: Provides lease, sales and service of light truck, commercial and specially-designed mileage tires, retreads, wheels and tire service equipment. 15 Continental Commercial Vehicle Tires - The Americas 1830 MacMillan Park Drive, Fort Mill, SC 29707 USA Phone: 704-583-3900 Website: www.continentaltire.com Products: Tires for various markets including the bus and motorcoach industries. 14 Federal-Mogul Corporation 26555 Northwestern Highway, Southfield, MI 48033 USA Phone: 248-354-7700 Website: www.federalmogul.com Products: Various brake-related products including fluids, hydraulics, lining, pads and shoes, rotors and drums. 14 T
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The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. 200 Innovation Way Akron, OH 44316-0001 USA Phone: 330-796-2121 Website: www.goodyear.com Products: Goodyear is one of the world’s largest tire companies. It employs approximately 69,000 people and manufactures its products from 51 facilities in 22 countries around the world. Its two Innovation Centers, located in Akron, OH, and Colmar-Berg, Luxembourg, strive to develop state-of-the-art products and services. 14 Haldex Brake Products Corp. 10930 N. Pomona Ave. Kansas City, MO 64153 USA Phone: 816-891-2470 Website: www.haldex.com Products: Haldex develops and manufactures brake systems for heavy trucks, trailers and buses. The product offering covers all primary components and subsystems included in complete air brake systems. The operations are conducted through two business units: Air Control and Foundation Brake. 14 Marathon Brake Systems See Ad Below 125 Old Mill Rd. Cartersville, GA 30120 USA Phone: 770-607-1613 Fax: 770-607-1698 Website: www.marathonbrake.com Company Officers: Bob Hicks, President; Jim Baldwin, Director of Fleets
High Performance Transit
Brake Linings & Air Disc Pads
From North America’s #1 Name in Transit Friction Marathon’s industry leading and OE approved KVT brake linings and DiscStar air disc pads are proven performers for transit and coach lines across the country. KVT and DiscStar are quiet, long life materials that are friendly to drums and rotors. To get the most from your bus brakes, count on Marathon!
See us at Booth 2562
www.MarathonBrake.com Page 38
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Products: Marathon Brake Systems manufacture high-performance non-asbestos drum brake lining and disc pads for transit buses, motorcoaches, school buses, etc. 15 Meritor, Inc. 2135 W. Maple Rd., Troy, MI 48084-7121 USA Phone: 248-435-1519 Website: www.meritor.com Products: Meritor is a global supplier of drivetrain, mobility, braking and aftermarket solutions for commercial vehicle and industrial markets. Meritor supplies more than two million brake assemblies per year for trucks, trailers, buses and coaches. In North America, the Meritor WABCO joint venture supplies active safety systems such as pneumatic and hydraulic anti-lock braking systems. 14 MGM Brakes 8530 Cliff Cameron Dr., Charlotte, NC 28269 USA 704-547-7411 E-Mail: mail@mgmbrakes.com Website: www.mgmbrakes.com Products: For over 50 years, MGM Brakes has been providing air brake actuators to the commercial vehicle market, with the addition of MGM’s advanced Electonic Brake Monitoring Systems (e.STROKE) for drum and air disc brake applications. MGM Brakes is an American-owned company with products “Made in the U.S.A.” and a global reach. Two ISO-certified manufacturing facilities and technical research centers are located in the United States. Developing new solutions to the transportation industry’s needs, from service chambers to double-diaphragm and piston-diaphragm spring brakes for use with Wedge, S-Cam or Air Disc Foundation Systems, to the Electronic Brake Monitoring System. MGM products are available through a global sales and distribution network. 14
Michelin North America, Inc. P.O. Box 19001, Greenville, SC 29602-9001 USA Phone: 864-458-6968 Website: www.michelintruck.com Products: Tires for various markets including the bus and motorcoach industries. 14 Motor Coach Tire Sales, LLC See Ad Below 1133 4th St., Columbus, GA 31901 USA Phone: 678-463-4110 Website: www.motorcoachtiresales.com Products: Motor Coach Tire Sales, LLC, was created to provide tires for the motorcoach and tour bus industries. The company partners with Toyo Tires. 14 Telma Retarder, Inc. 1245 Humbracht Cir. Ste. B, Bartlett, IL 60103 USA Phone: 800-797-7714 E-mail: customerservice@telma.com Website: www.telmausa.com Products: Telma provides frictionless braking systems based on the physical principle of electromagnetic induction. Telma’s expertise in the field of induction braking systems has been built from 60 years in the market. 14 Webb Wheel Products, Inc. 2310 Industrial Dr. SW, Cullman, AL 35055 USA Phone: 800-633-3256, 256-739-6660 Website: www.webbwheel.com Products: For nearly six decades, Webb Wheel Products has been making wheel-end equipment. This includes brake drums, hubs, rotors and spoke wheels. 14.
TOYO M144 TIRE NOW BEING USED BY OVER 100 FLEETS! AFFINITY PARTNER
POSITIVE MARKET FEEDBACK KEEPS ROLLING IN! CUSTOMER STATEMENTS: “We have been using the Toyo tires for over a year and have been impressed with the ride comfort and extended mileage the tires have delivered” • Wes Kanaga • Peoria Charters • Peoria Illinois “We have been running the Toyo M144 tires for more than a year now and we are impressed with their superior ride, handling, and wear characteristics.” • Scott Habr • West Valley Trailways • Campbell California “The Toyo tires have been a great value and great performer for us” • Ken Dillard • Champion Bus Lines • Greenville S.C.
NEW PROGRAM ADDITIONS: Government/School District Transportation Discounts Available Volume Discounts Offered *14 tire minimum order required
For more information contact: www.motorcoachtiresales.com or Call: 678-463-4110
7
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Premier Coach: Continued From Page 17 we can’t do the trip legally with one driver.” Another major challenge Premier Coach faces, according the Charlebois, is finding drivers who fit the company’s operating paradigm. A central element of this challenge is the aging of current drivers, and the difficulty in attracting younger people to take their place. “I think the problem of attracting younger drivers has much to do with the fact, in today’s world, it is fully expected that both parents play a role in raising children and home life. Being home at 5 o’clock now is very important to many people,” Charlebois said. “I take nothing away from this, but it becomes difficult because most drivers in this industry do not work on a set schedule. They work odd hours that don’t follow a pattern.” Charlebois said some motorcoach companies hurt the industry as a whole by not charging appropriate prices. This can result in not paying drivers enough to attract people into the industry. “We hear about drivers who are paid $12 or $14 an hour. When I hear that, I think to myself, ‘This is not attracting new drivers who must work odd hours.’ Pay doesn’t necessarily keep people, but it helps attract them to the industry.” In hiring new drivers, Charlebois considers finding someone with the right personality for the job the highest priority.
“We can teach a person how to drive. With the proper training, 99 percent of the public could probably be taught to drive a motorcoach,” Charlebois said. “The first and most important part of hiring a motorcoach operator is finding a person who will be a positive representative in front of customers. We look for that more than we look for somebody who has the perfect driving skills. It is a home run if a driver candidate has both the right personality and is highly skilled, but we would rather train someone to drive a vehicle, than try to change his or her personality.” If a new driver candidate does not have a CDL (commercial drivers license), Premier Coach’s safety and training officer and a seasoned driver will work with that person to see if he or she is going to like operating a large vehicle such as a motorcoach. When it is determined the candidate wants to continue the process, the company will help him or her obtain a CDL. “Once a new driver has his or her CDL, and the proper endorsements in hand, the process of conducting background checks begins,” Charlebois said. The company conducts criminal background and motor vehicle record checks. If the new driver passes this stage satisfactorily, he or she must undergo a drug screening test. The final step is a physical exam to make sure he or she is physically able to do the job. “Once all of that has taken place and passed,
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Telephone: 800-234-2734 Fax: 724-537-9003 e-mail: crfoamsales@verizon.net
a driver then must complete a week of training, learning who we are, what we do, and different things about the motorcoach industry,” Charlebois said. “After that, practical in-coach training begins and is handled by a mentor driver. One thing we don’t do is place a set amount of hours on training with a mentor.” Every new driver completes the in-house, weeklong classroom session, whether he or she has had prior experience or not. “For people who have done this before, we still make them go through the weeklong class, but their practical training on the road with a mentor might be short-lived,” Charlebois said. “However, with an inexperienced driver, it might require much more time. It is really on an individual basis.” It might seem counterintuitive that a company that works as hard as Premier Coach to present itself to customers and potential customers in a highly professional manner does not require drivers to wear uniforms, but such is the case. In lieu of uniforms, Premier Coach officials have opted to establish a dress code for drivers to follow. “We have a dress code that calls for drivers to wear a shirt and tie, slacks and dress shoes,” Charlebois said. “This has been an issue with which we have wrestled — would it be better to have a uniform, or to maintain a dress code? We feel the dress code has enabled our drivers to be who they are. A lot of our drivers will have a tie on that matches the type of work they are doing at a given time. It enables them to have their individuality, yet still work for a team. I think it helps them be who they are when they are out on the road, and not necessarily who I want them to be. After all, their personalities, in many cases, is why we hired them in the first place.” Drivers and their sparkling clean motorcoaches also play a crucial role in marketing the company. “We do a lot of Web-based marketing. The standard in the old days was to list a company in the yellow pages. This is still important and we utilize it, but we are aware that not everybody relies on a phone book anymore,” Charlebois said. “However, we think our coaches and our drivers are really who sell our company. They can either do a fantastic job or a terrible job. We are proud of our drivers. We think they do a fantastic job. Many times when people see our motorcoaches on the road, they will approach a driver and ask about Premier Coach.” In getting its name before the public, Premier Coach also participates in local charitable events and other activities. “We had a bus in our fleet that was called the ‘Pink Lady.’ It was a breast cancer and brain cancer awareness bus,” Charlebois said. “We donated money to the American Cancer Society based on the amount of miles that motorcoach traveled. These types of activities have helped
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create a positive, lasting image to customers and potential customers that we are about more than just making money. It is a way to give back. â&#x20AC;&#x153;When there is a breast cancer fundraising event, such as a fun run, we usually have a vehicle present to help shuttle people around. We donate those services. We have many fantastic drivers who insist on donating their time to support a good cause. Currently, we have a new bus that we are working on to help raise money and awareness of a syndrome called CHARGE.â&#x20AC;? According to www.chargesyndrome.org, CHARGE syndrome is a recognizable (genetic) pattern of birth defects, which occurs in about one in every 9,000 to 10,000 births worldwide. It is an extremely complex syndrome, involving extensive medical and physical difficulties that differ from child to child. Babies with CHARGE syndrome are often born with lifethreatening birth defects, including complex heart and breathing problems.
Repeat Business Keeps Wheels Rolling
A
ttracting first-time customers is often not that hard, according to Charlebois, it is keeping them coming back that is a focus at Premier Coach. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We measure success on our ability to maintain a proper repeat business,â&#x20AC;? Charlebois said.
â&#x20AC;&#x153;If we can get a customer in the door, that is great, but a lot of people can do that. If we can maintain that customer and build a relationship, this where we find our most success. Our sales people understand this very well, and that is part of the reason we put a strong emphasis on not just using email. Our people know to pick up the phone and talk to people once in a while. An email is very easy to say â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;noâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; to. An email establishes very little rapport with a customer. Some of the small talk that takes place with everyday customers is lost when only relying on emails to communicate. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Email is a quick, convenient way to communicate and is certainly important, but our sales philosophy is to not rely exclusively on emails to interact with customers.â&#x20AC;? When a sales rep establishes a relationship with a customer, Premier Coach seeks to pair that customer with the same representative when possible. This enables the sales person to establish a rapport with a customer and gives the customer confidence that the company has his or her best interest at heart, Charlebois explained. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The same holds true for our drivers,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Repeat customers often ask for the same driver each time they book a trip. This is especially true in college athletics, as coaches tend to be superstitious â&#x20AC;&#x201D; they always want to have the same driver. This
helps drive our repeat business.â&#x20AC;? While establishing a thriving repeat business has been an important part of the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s success, Charlebois said the main reason the company has prospered over the years is its employees, both past and present. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t stress enough the importance of our people,â&#x20AC;? Charlebois said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our employeesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; desire to help our company grow, and our commitment to a modern fleet, have led us to where we are today. This was all made possible because of the foresight my father had in 1992, to realize this is a market that needs to be served. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I definitely think the future of the motorcoach industry is on a positive track. We are seeing many of the younger generation who are very aware of green transportation. They are open to using public transportation. We, and the industry as a whole, continually educate customers that motorcoach transportation is one of, if not the most, green form of transportation. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have a total of 120 employees, which is something we take pride in, because there are 120 people who prosper because of Premier Coach. It is a good feeling.â&#x20AC;? Contact: Premier Coach Co, Inc., 946 Route 7 South, Milton, VT 05468. Phone: 802-655-4456. Website: www.premiercoach.net.
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Motorcoach Manager: Continued From Page 29
Distinctive Systems: Continued From Page 31
trol of scheduling and dispatching, whether an order calls for one coach or for several coaches, and drivers running at different dates and times. When a trip is repeated, the data can be entered once and then duplicated to create templates for future trips. In addition to managing all kinds of charters, line runs and shuttles not requiring reservations can be created in batches and managed with several views of the scheduled trips. School bus companies use the charter module effectively for sports and field trips, as well as for routes. Motorcoach Maintenance Manager complements the charter module by keeping a history of equipment maintenance. Parts are tracked from the purchase to the use on a vehicle, and a parts inventory is maintained. The software can be used to invoice maintenance work done for outside companies. It tracks scheduled preventive maintenance and remembers what work needs to be done on each piece of equipment. The parts inventory can handle separate inventories for multiple garages. Motorcoach Tour Manager, also available as Tour Optimizer for companies that don’t own motorcoaches, simplifies the creation of group or retail tours by developing and costing itineraries, taking reservations, selling tickets to groups or individuals, creating rooming lists, name and luggage tags, etc. It tracks payments to hotels and attractions. Once a tour package has been developed, it can be used again on a new date or for a different group. Companies running regular shuttles with reservations can use Motorcoach Shuttle Manager. Daily shuttles can be pre-entered in batches and passengers can be quickly booked onto the correct shuttle. Round trip tickets are issued and various reports on the number of riders, cash receipts, etc. are produced. The shuttle manager requires the charter module to manage the trips.
ers of the products. Numerous features and enhancements are constantly being added to the entire product suite. For example, now available to Distinctive Systems’ clients are driver work tickets sent to smart phones with notification tracking, integration with GPS vendors, the most comprehensive Gross Payroll Module in the industry, tour websites enhanced for mobile devices, integration with multiple financial systems and a comprehensive Tire Management Module. This list is just a few of the many enhancements that have been added to the systems over the past years. This tradition of innovative functionality enhancements will continue in the future. Be sure to watch Distinctive Systems closely. For further details, or to arrange a no-obligation demonstration, call 646-448-9981, send an email to nasales@distinctive-systems.com and/or visit www.distinctive-systems.com/us.
For more information, call Motorcoach Manager at 800-780-6880 or visit www.motorcoachmanager.com or www.motorcoachmanager.net.
Espar Rebrands To Eberspaecher Premiering at the Mid-America Trucking Show (MATS) in Louisville, KY, in early April, Espar began using its new name, Eberspaecher. Since 1973, Espar has delivered Eberspaecher German technology to the North American marketplace. Eberspaecher, a family-owned company, is celebrating its 150-year anniversary in 2015. Espar has announced it will officially assume the Eberspaecher name in the marketplace, while still maintaining “Espar” as a legal business entity. “Based on user feedback and a deep-rooted commitment to customer satisfaction, rebranding our company is a logical transition that will enable us to provide customers with 150 years of expertise, improved global support and a greater investment in research and development that only a company as large as Eberspaecher can provide,” according to the company. Visit www.eberspaecher-na.com for more information.
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Royal Star Hawaii Adds Temsa Mini-Coaches To Its Fleet Royal Star Hawaii has two new Gold TEMSA TS 30 Series minicoaches suited for groups of up to 34 passengers. “With our new mini-coaches, we’re able to provide more transportation options for smaller meeting groups, wedding parties, and even family reunions,” said Marc Rubenstein, vice president and general manager for Royal Star Hawaii Motorcoach Tours & Destination Services. “They may be smaller in size but they have the same deluxe comfort, amenities, and reliability of our full size signature Gold fleet motorcoaches, including a large restroom, and they are more economical to operate, so we can pass those savings on to our customers.”
Home of the Best Full-Service Travel Plaza in Northern Illinois Featuring…
Seating for 175, Homestyle Cooking, Daily Specials, Buffet, Soup & Salad Bar, Full Menu, Carry-Out
(815) 562-5840 The new 34-seat mini-coaches feature designer upholstery, reclining chairs with adjustable foot rests, individual lighting, air conditioning controls and large tinted windows with adjustable shades. The minicoaches also include an audio/DVD video system with microphone and flat screens. The kneeling feature allows for easy access boarding. Serving Hawaii since 1996, Royal Star Hawaii is a subsidiary of Stars of Paradise Tours & Attractions. Visit www.royalstarhawaii.com.
Custom Coach Buys 2 More Temsas A company that began with one, 25-passenger mini-coach over 25 years ago has grown into a transportation company with a fleet of 45 vehicles. Custom Coach & Limousine, located in Portland, ME, provides ground transportation throughout the New England area and beyond, to customers for corporate events, airport transfers, weddings and school trips. The company’s fleet is comprised of motorcoaches, mini-buses, school buses, sedans, and limousines. For more information on Custom Coach & Limousine, visit www.customcoachandlimo.com. Gregg Isherwood, president of Custom Coach & Limousine, took delivery of his first Temsa TS 30 coach in 2014. Recently, he took delivery of his second and third, TS 30 mid-size coaches. Custom Coach’s 34 passenger coaches are equipped with 110V plugs, cordless mic, rear camera, rear window, an A/V system, and woodgrain floors. CH Bus Sales, Inc. is the exclusive distributor of TEMSA motorcoaches in the United States. Visit www.chbussales.com for more information.
Seating for 40, Specialty Sandwiches, Stromboli, Fresh Salads & Pizza, Hand-Dipped Ice Cream!
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Please call ahead! May/June 2015
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News From MCI Executive Coach Adds 2015 MCIÂŽ J4500 In 1979, former coach driver, Elvin McMichael founded his own company, Lancaster, PA-based Executive Coach, with three other partners, a preowned MCI and a plan to move to new models when financially feasible. Today, Executive Coach, now family-owned by McMichael and his son, Dale, has a 16coach fleet, including 14 late-model MCI coaches and a new 2015 MCIÂŽ J4500 delivered in March. Executive Coachâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s latest J4500 has Wi-Fi and full passenger electronics. Executive Coach serves tourist, organizational, corporate and school clients and now works with tour partners around the world including Bob Neff Tours, Westlake Tours, Loweeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Group Tours and the American Tour Guide Association. Visit www.executivecoach.net for more information. Motor Coach Industries (MCI), headquartered in Des Plaines, IL, is an intercity coach manufacturer in the United States and Canada, with sales, service and repair facilities in both countries. MCI is also the distributor of the Setra S 417, Setra S 407 and Setra parts in the United States and Canada. The company offers 24-hour technical support and technician training, along with extensive aftermarket parts and repair service.
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BUSLINE
May/June 2015
MCI Adds 2 Technical Solution Managers For Canada Jeff Antoine has joined MCI as a TSM for the Ontario region, and Remi Levesque is the TSM responsible for Northeastern Canada, including Quebec. Both Antoine and Levesque report to Dan Besserer, MCI director of customer solutions and technical services. â&#x20AC;&#x153;These new positions follow MCIâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s other moves and investments to provide Canadian operators with top-notch service,â&#x20AC;? said company representatives. Antoine joins MCI with a 12-year career in the automotive industry, including experience as a technician and as a dealership shop foreman. Based in Cambridge, Ontario, outside Toronto, Antoine will cover a territory that includes all of Ontario, where he will Jeff Antoine serve private-sector operators of MCI and Setra coaches and public-sector operators of the MCI Commuter Coach. Levesque has a 15-year career as a coach and bus technician. He was previously lead shop supervisor for First Canada, a division of First Transit. Levesque has expertise in electrical systems and HVAC, holding Setra certification in HVAC maintenance and repair. In addition to supporting MCI and Setra coach owners in Northeastern Canada, Remi Levesque Levesque will also train and assist operators in other parts of Canada when needed. MCI also recently moved its Montreal MCI Sales and Service Center to a larger location at 3550 rue Saint-Patrick, renovating the building and adding state-of-the-art diagnostics and equipment as well as more mechanics. The new site also has more space for repair and parts inventory. Guy Vachon Joins MCI As Vice President Aftermarket Sales Guy Vachon has joined MCI as vice president of aftermarket sales. Vachon is responsible for MCI Service Partsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; PSM (regional parts solutions managers) field representation, and also oversees the management of large national accounts and the strategic direction of the customer service support team. Vachon, who reports to Wolfgang Winzer, MCI vice president and general manager of aftermarket, will be based at MCI headquarters in Des Plaines, IL. Jim Stibgen is now director of customer service and continues to manage the customer service support teams, including the Guy Vachon call center at MCI Service Parts in Louisville, KY. He reports to Vachon and will support him in the management of key accounts. Vachon formerly held several sales, marketing and planning leadership positions in the commercial vehicle industry. Prior to joining MCI, Vachon was director of aftermarket sales and service with Morgan Olson, a truck body manufacturer. He also was general manager of the Daimler-owned SelecTrucks Center in Chicago, and also held leadership positions with Navistar, Hendrickson, and Federal-Mogul. MCI Service Parts is also upgrading its call-center software and is making improvements to its online Parts Store. Visit www.mcicoach.com for more information.
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Allied Specialty Vehicles Has Industry Partnership With CleanFUEL USA Allied Specialty Vehicles (ASV), a manufacturer of motor vehicles for commercial, fire and emergency and recreation markets, has formed an exclusive partnership with CleanFUEL USA. The company will provide products and services to expand ASV’s line of alternative fuel vehicles, including propane autogas. “ASV has a long relationship working with CleanFUEL USA on propane autogas fleet installations for type A school buses at Collins Bus. Expanding this relationship across all ASV vehicle brands will increase the breadth of propane autogas systems we can offer to our customers,” ASV President and CEO Tim Sullivan said. “We’re proud of our commitment to offer green energy alternative fuel options such as propane that have long-term benefits to the environment.”
The partnership agreement calls for CleanFUEL USA’s propane autogas systems currently installed by third-party upfitters to be transitioned to ASV factory certified installations. Sullivan says this change will offer customers a full OEM warranty, increase installation efficiency and improve overall quality control. The two companies will also work together to develop customer service centers that will offer spare parts and maintenance services for a full suite of CleanFUEL USA propane autogas systems for multiple ASV product lines and their customers. ASV is a manufacturer of brands serving commercial, fire and emergency and recreational vehicle markets. Visit www.alliedsv.com for more information. ADVERTORIAL
Complete Coach Works Delivers Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Fleet To Garden City Sanitation Complete Coach Works (CCW) has announced it is in the process of completing the final delivery of 47 repowered compressed natural gas (CNG) heavy-duty garbage trucks to Garden City Sanitation (GCS). The project supports the City of San Jose’s efforts to reduce the carbon footprint by limiting greenhouse gas emissions. The job specifics include: installing new engines, radiator assembly, and a remanufactured transmission to assure the longevity of the new CNG power train system. One of CCW’s most notable feats in this project is the innovative development of a fueling tank system, which allowed the mounting of the CNG tanks behind the cab. “The CNG trucks are quieter, perform well, and keep costs low for everybody,” said GCS General Manager Steve Jones. “With only positive feedback, we believe CCW gave us the most effective way to continue to do business.” Converting to a CNG fleet saves the utility company 30 percent in fuel costs on a 67 gallon tank, versus a conventional diesel engine system. Jones said the repower total per unit cost comes in under $150,000, in comparison to new CNG models, which can cost upwards of $400,000. The project will continue to save GCS millions of dollars over time through low maintenance and fuel costs. GCS is the first city-contracted hauler to commit an entire fleet to converting to CNG, resulting in an eight year extension from the City of San Jose. The extension allows the trucks to run for 14 years, during which GCS will continue to provide quality services to its
community. CCW is proud to have been given the opportunity to assist GCS in becoming the first of its industry to transition into alternative fuel systems. Complete Coach Works is the largest U.S. bus remanufacturing company and the leading provider of a vast array of transportation solutions with more than 28 years of dedicated service in the industry. CCW strives to continually provide cleaner air through innovative design and engineering, resulting in the world’s first and only remanufactured all-electric powered bus. Developed exclusively by CCW, the Zero Emission Propulsion System (ZEPS) drive system technology provides customers a clean, cost effective and viable alternative to fuel, with the ability to be integrated into any fleet, helping communities further support the environment for future generations to come. Whether the need is for collision repair, interior rehab, a completely remanufactured vehicle, repower to alternative fuel conversions such as CNG, LNG, or LPG, meeting ADA or emission compliance, wheelchair lifts or ramps, bike rack installations, diesel particulate filter (DPF) cleaning systems, multiplexing, HVAC and PLC systems servicing and upgrades, exterior detailing and paint job, CCW will meet its customers’ needs at a reasonable cost. Regardless of how small or large the job, CCW’s exceptionally experienced team of over 350 experts are committed to customer service and satisfaction. Contact Celeste Casas at 800-287-7253 or e-mail ccasas@completecoach.com for more information.
Jeff Armstead Promoted At ProAir ProAir, LLC has promoted Jeff Armstead to vice president of sales & marketing. Armstead now directs the company’s sales & marketing department, and develops new business opportunities both domestically and globally. Armstead will take Jeff Armstead a greater responsibility in the strategic planning and implementation of projects involving the overall organization. Armstead is presently in his 10th year with ProAir, and previously served as the company’s national sales manager. ProAir designs, manufactures, and markets climate systems for the specialty vehicle industry. Facilities are maintained in Elkhart, IN, and Ontario, CA. ProAir is a holding company of KODA Enterprises Group, of Waltham, MA. Call 574-264-5494 or visit www.proairllc.com.
Cincinnati Metro Adds 5 New ‘Mini-Hybrids’ Cincinnati Metro added five new “minihybrid” buses that went into service on Earth Day. It is planning to add 32 additional “minihybrids” by the end of May. These additions will bring Metro’s “mini-hybrid” total to 115, along with the 27 hybrid buses already in Metro’s 356 bus fleet. The “mini-hybrid” buses use thermal cooling technology. Other examples of Metro’s environmentally friendly practices, include: using rainwater to wash buses; burning waste oil to heat garages; recycling and reusing motor fluids such as antifreeze, refrigerant and power steering fluid; and, recycling paper, plastic and cans. Visit www.go-metro.com.
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Motor Coach Industries
Motor Coach Industries
MCI® Commuter Coach
MCI® J4500
The MCI Commuter Coach, based on the best-selling D-Series model, is the preferred vehicle on long-distance express routes because of its passenger comfort and safety at higher speeds. Safety technologies include electronic stability control (which helps secure directional stability), fire suppression systems and optional three-point passenger seatbelts. The MCI Commuter Coach offers a highly competitive per-seat price, and workhorse reliability — proven by a recent National Transit Database Maintenance report which finds the MCI Commuter Coach to have 191 percent fewer failures per vehicle than BRT and 55 percent fewer than typical transit buses. Increasing fuel economy and helping public transit agencies advance their clean-energy goals also factor into MCI’s engineering. That’s why the MCI Commuter Coach is available in clean-diesel; diesel electric and CNG engine configurations. Options also include 110-volt outlets, USB plugs and Wi-Fi.
An 11-year industry best-seller, the MCI J4500 provides premium workhorse reliability and significant fuel economy gains. Independent Bosch testing shows the J4500 to be 6 to 8.4 percent more fuel-efficient than its nearest competitors, and other data point to the model’s low total cost of operation and excellent residual value. In addition to its BMW USA-designed good looks, the J4500 comes equipped with electronic stability control, fire suppression and tire monitoring systems, and features a new ZF independent front suspension, offering a turning radius nearly seven feet tighter than before. A new Bendix braking system delivers car-like control, along with the optional Bendix Wingman Advanced, a collision mitigation technology that uses a forward-mounted radar sensor to issue warnings and prompt active driver intervention to help avoid incidents. Options also include 110-volt outlets, USB plugs and Wi-Fi. MCI’s investments in service and support, and excellent residual value, add to a coach that provides exceptional performance for years to come.
Motor Coach Industries; 200 East Oakton St., Des Plaines, IL 60018; 847-285-2000; 800-428-7626; Fax: 847-285-2013 • Email: marketing@mcicoach.com; Website: www.mcicoach.com
Model .................................................MCI® Commuter Coach Hybrid/CNG Passenger Capacity................................................................................57, 49 Length.......................................................................................................45’40” Height ............................................................................................................11’5” Interior Height.........................................................................................78.25” Engine Options ..................................................Cummins ISL, ISX or ISL G Transmission Options .................................Allison B500, Allison B500R, Allison EP 50 Hybrid Drive Fuel Tank Capacity...............................164 gal. – CNG 114.6 Diesel Gallon Equivalent (DGE) Fuel Options.........................................................Clean-diesel, hybrid, CNG GVWR .........................................................................50,000 lbs., 46,000 lbs.
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Motor Coach Industries; 200 East Oakton St., Des Plaines, IL 60018; 847-285-2000; 800-428-7626; Fax: 847-285-2013 • Email: marketing@mcicoach.com; Website: www.mcicoach.com
Model ..................................................................................................MCI J4500 Seating Capacity.............................................................................................56 Length .........................................................................................................45.58’ Height ........................................................................................................140.74” Headroom ..................................................................................................78.25” Turning Radius................................................................................................47’ Wheelbase......................................................................................................315” Floor - Low or standard ...................................................................Standard Engine Options ....................................Cummins ISX, Detroit Diesel DD 13 Transmission ...................................................Allison B500 or, ZF Astronic Chassis .............................................................................................Monocoque Fuel Tank Capacity ................................................................................183 gal. Fuel Options................................................................Ultra low sulfur diesel Brakes..............................................................Meritor all-wheel EX-225 disc GVWR ..................................................................................................54,000 lbs.
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Motor Coach Industries
ABC Companies
Setra S 417 Best-in-class: Exemplifying exclusive European styling, German engineering and custom-tailored luxury, the Setra S 417 Top Class offers more choices, with a second door, club corner lounge seating, premium fabrics and galleys. Comfort and ambience delight passengers, and the optional TopSky and rear window offer the best views anywhere. A true driver’s vehicle, the S 417 features an IFS suspension system for a smooth, quiet ride. Proprietary safety features include front collision guard, cornering lights and rain/light sensors. Vehicle monitoring capabilities, with integrated tire monitoring and an onboard diagnostics system, ensure that drivers and maintenance professionals are ideally equipped to increase uptime. 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 EPA 10 450 hp Transmission..............................Allison B 500R or, ZF Astronic 12-speed 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.
Ameritrans E-Series - Eco-Charge All Electric Bus “0” Emissions Built on a Ford Chassis, the E-series ZEV (Zero Emissions Vehicle) coach transports up to 12 passengers in style and comfort. It offers many features and custom built-to-order options that Ameritrans vehicles bring to the mid-size transport market. The Ameritrans Eco-Charge is designed to optimize the integration of a zero emission vehicle into a fleet. ABC Companies 1506 30th Street, NW Faribault, MN 55021 USA Ph: 507-334-1871 Fax: 507-334-0246 Email: info@ameritransbus.com Website: www.ameritransbus.com
Model........................................................................Ameritrans E-Series ZEV Seating Capacity ...............Up to 12 passengers with 12 high back rear passenger seats; Two side mount double foldaways; Two ceiling mounted overhead grab rails Engine.....................................................Motiv’s ePCS (electric-Powertrain Control System) All Electric Powertrain 150kW/200hp electric motor Type of Fuel ...........Powered by advanced sodium-nickel battery with on-board 208 - 480V 60kW charger Chassis..........................Full-welded galvaneal steel cage construction. Chassis upfitting by Roush Industries Engineering Wheelchair Lift Option ...................Front mounted wheelchair lift, Two wheelchair positions with slide and click tie-down system Suspension....................................................Mor/Ryde suspension system
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Champion Bus
Champion Bus
LF Transport™ The LF Transport™ with FLEXBUS® Technology represents the next generation of innovative vehicles that are designed to exceed the expectations of today’s passengers and operators. By utilizing the latest advancements in transit vehicle manufacturing, the Champion LF Transport™ provides that very best in vehicle accessibility, without compromising reliability and safety. The combination of accessibility design features, such as the EqualizerRamp®-single slope entry, the 102-inch wide true flat floor passenger area and a level vehicle provided by the kneeling suspension system, offer a universally accessible vehicle for all riders.
Defender F-550 The Champion Defender F-550 is the epitome of mid-size vehicles that will exceed customer, owner, and operator expectations. The Defender is built on the F-450/550, with a minimum GVWR starting at 15,000 pounds to allow for increased passenger capacities up to 33 passengers. There are lift equipped ADA options for buses, along with multiple fuel options, such as gasoline, diesel or Ford OEM Engine Gaseous Prep Package Alternative Fuels. By utilizing the latest advancements in transit vehicle manufacturing, the Defender provides the very best in vehicle accessibility, along with reliability and safety of the steel tube cage construction.
Champion Bus, Inc. 331 Graham Rd., Imlay City, MI 48444 Ph: 810-724-1753 ext. 265 Fax: 810-724-6478 Website: www.championbus.com Email: mkrummel@championbus.com
Champion Bus, Inc. 331 Graham Rd., Imlay City, MI 48444 Ph: 810-724-1753 ext. 265 Fax: 810-724-6478 Website: www.championbus.com Email: mkrummel@championbus.com
Model.....................................................................................................FlexBus™ Seating Capacity ....................................................Up to 20 Passengers or 6 Wheelchair locations Length.........................................................................................................23’-27’ Width ...............................................................................................................102” Height................................................................................................................111” Engine........................................................................Ford - 6.8L GAS-EFI-V10; GM - 6.0L VORTEC GAS-SFI-V8; 6.6L DURAMAX DSL-V8 Transmission.................................................................................................OEM Air Conditioning......................................................Many Options Available Steering..........................................................................................................OEM Type of Fuel ...........................................................Gas, Diesel, CNG and LPG
Model ..........................................................................................Defender F550 Seating Capacity.................................................................21-33 passengers Length......................................................................................................25’ - 32’ Width.................................................................................................................94” Height .........................................................................................................118.75” Engine.......................................................................6.7L Diesel and 6.8L Gas Transmission.................................................................................................OEM Air Conditioning......................................................Many Options Available Steering................................................................................................Ford OEM Type of Fuel.................................................................................CNG, Propane
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Nova Bus
Glaval Bus
LFS HEV® (Hybrid Electric Vehicle)
Whether it’s a wheelchair passenger, business traveler or an elderly rider, the Titan II LF eliminates the need for steps to enter or exit the vehicle. There is also no longer a need for the traditional wheelchair lift. The Titan II LF is offered with either a Braun or Ricon bi-fold power ramp. This new low floor kneeling bus utilizes the rugged Chevy G4500 chassis platform along with a heavy-duty “Purpose-Built” chassis and floor structure designed and produced by Spartan Chassis. One of the most impressive features of the Titan II LF is the 4-corner, self-leveling air-ride suspension with kneeling capability. With the touch of one switch, the complete unit will kneel to achieve a 1:6 ramp slope which exceeds ADA’s current minimum, at the same time providing a level floor surface for all wheelchair positions. The Titan II LF offers true random access for up to 5 wheelchair positions, or can seat up to 21 ambulatory passengers. With Glaval’s reputation for building a quality product, the Titan II LF is sure to help make life easier.
Glaval Titan II Low Floor Based on the proven performance of the LFS platform, the LFS HEV® (Hybrid Electric Vehicle) upgrades its already advanced fuel-efficient engineering by adding a powerful, ultra-low emissions hybrid drive to cut fuel and maintenance costs. Given optimal operating conditions, the LFS HEV offers up to 30 percent reduction in fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions compared to conventional diesel-powered buses. Other benefits include a significant reduction in noise levels, particularly at the rear of the vehicle and outside. Nova Bus offers two different types of hybrid systems: parallel and series. In both parallel and series vehicles, braking energy normally lost as heat is recuperated through a generator and stored in the rooftop batteries. That’s why hybrid technologies are best suited for frequent stop-and-go conditions. Also available, the high-capacity LFS Artic HEV is an attractive alternative for growing cities focused on sustainable development. Starts and stops are smooth and the ride is stable, even in snowy conditions; the end result is a more enjoyable passenger experience. Developing vehicles to help cities meet their sustainability objectives is part of Nova Bus’ vision to be the leader in green efficiency and Electro Mobility.
Nova Bus: 260 Banker Road, Plattsburgh, NY 12901 518-566-6682 • Fax: 518-957-2002 Email: novabus.sales@volvo.com Website: www.novabus.com
Glaval Bus 914 CR #1 North Elkhart, IN 46514 Ph: 574-343-5107 Fax: 574-264-4259 www.glavalbus.com Email: pmarnocha@forestriverinc.com
Model .......................................................................................................LFS HEV Seating Capacity...................................................................................up to 41 Length...............................................................................................................40’ Width ...............................................................................................................102” Height..............................................................................................................132” Engine .....................................................................Cummins ISB 6.7 280 HP, Cummins ISL 8.9 330 HP Traction Drive.................................................Allison H 40 EP, BAE HDS200 Chassis .......................................................................Stainless Steel Integral Fuel ...............................................................................Diesel-electric Hybrid Air Conditioning................................................Thermo King Athenia, MCC Wheelchair Lift Option..............................................................Lift-U, Fedico Steering .............................................................................................TRW TAS85 Suspenion..........................................................................................................ZF
Model.......................................................................................Glaval Titan II LF Seating Capacity.............................................................21-pax or 5 W/Chair Overall Length .........................................................................24’, 26’ and 28’ Exterior Width................................................................................................96” Exterior Height ........................................110” (Exc. Roof A/C, Roof Hatch) Interior Width.................................................................................................92” Interior Height ..................................78” Behind Rear Wheel/81” in Front Wheelbase ..............................................................................166”, 190” & 214” GVWR .....................................................................................................14,200-lb. Engine ......................................Chevy Vortec 6.0L V8 Gas or CNG option, and also now available with DuraMax Diesel Transmission....................................................................6-Speed Automatic Chassis ..........................................................................................Chevy G4500 Type Of Fuel.........................................................................Diesel, Gas & CNG
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CTAA Expo 2015 Set For May 31 Through June 5 In Tampa The Community Transportation Association of America (CTAA) EXPO 2015 is scheduled for May 31-June 5, at the Tampa Convention Center, Tampa, FL. Below are some of this year’s activities and learning opportunities: Schedule At A Glance Sunday, May 31 • National Community Transportation Roadeo; and, • National Community Transportation Roadeo Awards Banquet. Monday, June 1 • Conference Intensive Training Sessions; • Mini-Conference - Implementing Technology (Day 1); and, • 2015 State and Tribal Delegates Meeting (by invitation only). Tuesday, June 2 • Conference Intensive Training Sessions; • Mini-Conference - Implementing Technology (Day 2); • Mini-Conference - Volunteer Transportation; • Community Transportation Conference Luncheon; and, • EXPO 2015 Trade Show Opening and Reception. Wednesday, June 3 • Conference Intensive Training Sessions; • Community Transportation Awards Breakfast; • Professional Development Leadership Sessions; • General Session; • Community Transportation Trade Fair and Luncheon; • Professional Development Information Sessions; • Educational Tours; and, • Evening: PechaKucha Slam. Thursday, June 4 • Professional Development Leadership Sessions; • Community Transportation Trade Fair and Luncheon; •Idea Cafes; and, •EXPO’s Big Night Out: Dinner and entertainment. Friday, June 5 • Happy Trails Farewell Breakfast. Trade Fair EXPO organizers consider the 2015 Community Transportation Trade Fair as the highlight of the event. The Trade Fair includes the most comprehensive collection of community transportation vendors, manufacturers and consultants assembled on an annual basis. Whatever you are looking for, you will find it on our Trade Fair floor. Attendees can meet the vendors, compare products and take an in-depth look at the newest products and services available for the community transportation industry. Tentative Trade Show Hours • June 1: Vehicle move-in (noon-3 p.m.) • June 2: Exhibitor move-in (8 a.m.-4 p.m.) Opening Reception (5-7 p.m.) • June 3: Trade Show Grand Opening with Box Lunch (noon-3 p.m.) • June 4: Trade Show Open with Box Lunch (noon-2 p.m.) Exhibitor move-out (3-9 p.m.) Intensive Sessions Three-Day Classes (June 1-3) • Vehicle Maintenance Management and Inspection (VMMI); and, • Passenger Service and Safety (PASS) Train the Trainer Workshop Page 50
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Two-Day Classes (June 1-2) • Certified Community Transit Supervisory (CCTS); • Professional Dispatching and Scheduling (PDS); • Certified Safety and Security Officer (CSSO); • Preparing for the CCTM and CTPA Examination; • Transit Network Design Course; and, • Transit 1 Foundations. One-Day Classes (June 1) • Transit Marketing for Community and Public Transportation; and, • Ridesharing Expanding Transit Options in Your Community. One-Day Classes (June 2) • Developing Policies and Procedures for Transit; • Financial Management for Transit Agencies; • Find & Retain the Best, Engage or Confront the Rest; and, • Leading Creative Thinking in Your Organization. Professional Development Workshops (June 3, 9-10:30 a.m.) Ridesharing • You Can Harness the Synergy of Transit and Bikeshare Programs Harnessing New Technology • Personalization of Transportation The Changing Role of Community Transportation • Where is Community Transportation Headed? Improving Service Delivery • Holistic Customer Service: Delivering Successful Paratransit Trips From Beginning to End; • Creating the Nation’s First Transit-Community Center: An Example of Rural Transit Oriented Development; and, • The Bridge Between Fixed-Route and Demand-Response Transportation: Flexible Service Routes Communications • Let’s Go To The Video Tape Developing Better Outcomes • Beyond the Silo: Strategies for Effective Health/Transportation Sector Collaboration Tribal Transit • Tribal Transit and Access to Healthcare Professional Development Workshops (June 3, 3:15-4:45 p.m.) Harnessing New Technology • Don’t Be Afraid of Your Data: Make Your NTD Reporting Work For You The Changing Role of Community Transportation • New Initiatives and New Staff: A Focus on Rural and Specialized Programs from the FTA; and, • Procurement for Small and Medium Transit Systems Improving Service Delivery • Safety Management Systems (SMS) for Executives; • Improving Service by Involving Our Customers; and, • Community Transportation and People with Disabilities Communications • Apps, Apps, and More Apps: Making Them Work for You Developing Better Outcomes • Regionalization On Your Terms: Proactive Strategies to Serve Changing Communities Tribal Transit • The Money Issue: Financing and Funding Tribal Transit Professional Development Workshops (June 4, 8:30-10:30 a.m.) Ridesharing • Aren’t You Really a Mobility Agency? Why The Vanpool Works for Transit Harnessing New Technology
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The annual Community Transportation EXPO is your chance to join colleagues from around the nation in a setting dedicated to fresh ideas, innovative products and services, networking and learning. EXPO is a meeting place for people who want to expand their horizons on issues of mobility, transportation and how to build strong communities. People who attend EXPO are operators of community transportation systems, drivers, supervisors, dispatchers, safety and security officers, local planners, mobility managers, workforce development professionals, elected officials, federal, state and local government administrators and anyone interested in building a more safe and mobile society.
Why Should You Attend? This yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s conference brings us to Tampa, Fla., and the Tampa Convention Center. The EXPO 2014 host hotel is the Tampa Marriott Waterside. In addition to the important discussions on the legislative front, there will be dozens of training sessions, workshops and networking events that will allow you to advance your understanding of transit issues, develop fresh solutions to challenging issues and help you outline new approaches to your work. Fore more information, visit:
www.ctaa.org/expo
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• Promising Practices in One-Call, One-Click Services The Changing Role of Community Transportation • Embracing Innovation: Directing Your System Into the Future Improving Service Delivery • Is Your Drug and Alcohol Testing Program in Compliance with DOT Regulations?; • Fostering Safety and Security in Community Transportation; and, • Implementing and Sustaining Successful Travel Training Programs: Examples from the Field Developing Better Outcomes • Nimbleness Gets the Prize: Innovative Strategies for Delivering Health Care Transportation; • No Senior Left Behind: Providing Premier Transportation Service for Older Adults; • Riding the Wave: Building Ladders of Opportunity for Youth with Disabilities through Education & Transit Partnerships; and, • Solving Job Access Needs: One Challenge, Two Solutions, across Three States Idea Cafes (June 4, 2:30-4:30 p.m.) Idea Cafes will be about stepping out of the traditional conference model involving presentations selected months beforehand and panels of speakers. Sessions will give EXPO attendees the opportunity to share questions, ideas, insights or group brainstorming of specific topics in interactive discussions. Conference attendees will be able to submit ideas before and during the conference. Idea sessions include: • Enhancing Communications and Leadership - Communications; • Understanding Alternative Transportation - Ridesharing; • Healthcare & Transportation: Succeeding in the New Era Improving Service Delivery; • Implementing Strategic Redesign & Innovations - The Changing Role of Community Transportation; • Tribal Transit: Moving Forward - Tribal Transit; • Smart Financing for Your Agency’s Future - Developing Better Outcomes; and, • State Associations: Exchanging Ideas - The Changing Role of Community Transportation. General Sessions The scale of the challenges faced by community and public transportation providers, combined with the accelerating speed of innovation in transit technology and service design, demands a new approach to leadership. To succeed in this new era, industry leaders must rethink old habits and challenge the conventional wisdom and industry models that have defined our world. This year’s EXPO general sessions are designed to deliver the vital information to succeed. Transit Roadeo The National Community Transit Roadeo is the only national venue to honor and celebrate the value of rural and community transit operators, the backbone of the community transportation industry. This exciting event draws drivers from around the country to compete for top scores on a course that tests skills on every level of drivers’ abilities. All EXPO participants are invited to attend and recognize not only the best drivers in the nation, but the invaluable role drivers play in community and public transportation. Special Events June 3: CTAA Awards Breakfast: Toast The Best With Toast! June 3: PechaKucha Slam - Informal evening of crowd-sourced presentations. June 4: Big Night Out - Dinner and entertainment. For more information, visit www.ctaa.org.
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News From ABC Companies Iowa-Based Windstar Lines Purchases 5 2015 Van Hool CX 2045s Founded in 1995, with the whole family involved, Carroll, IA-based Windstar Lines (www.gowindstar.com) has grown with added locations in Cedar Rapids, Dubuque, Des Moines, Lincoln, NE, and Rochelle, IL. With a recent move into the Kansas City market, the fleet has now grown to 75 motorcoaches, offering luxury tours, convention planning and charter service in Iowa and Illinois as well as portions of Nebraska.
In addition, Windstar Vice President Scott Greteman said they operate another 10 minicoaches, Sprinter Vans, and 3 school buses. Windstar recently took delivery of 5 new 2015 Van Hool CX204s. They are equipped with wood-grain flooring, leather passenger seats, a multimonitor DVD entertainment system and Van Hool's rear passenger window side-view cameras. San Diego’s Goldfield Stages Adds 2 New 2015 Van Hool CXs “It’s the classic bus industry story,” said Goldfield Stages' Kevin McClintock. “In 1978, I was a 19 year old washing buses at a big Los Angeles-based coach company and training to be a driver. I got the bug, and in 1984 my wife, Dalyce, and I moved to San Diego. We started Goldfield with two used 35-foot coaches. Dalyce handled sales and administrative duties, while I did maintenance, bus washing and driving.” Since that time Goldfield (www.goldfieldstage.com) has become San Diego’s second largest bus company, with charter vehicles ranging from a 13-passenger executive van to 29- and 30-passenger mini-coaches and 25 full-size motorcoaches.
Specializing in luxury charters, McClintock said the company tries to exceed customer's expectations on every trip, “Our customer service is not by accident — we periodically hire an outside consultant to do customer service training for the entire company.” The major growth came in 2007 when Goldfield purchased another local company and doubled in size overnight. Goldfield recently took delivery of two new 2015 Van Hool CXs from ABC Companies, Van Hool's exclusive North American distributor. “Our fleet is primarily made up of Van Hool coaches. We've found them to be very reliable, easy to work on, with great support by ABC, and most importantly, our clients love them,” McClintock said. “In the early days it was difficult to get used coaches financed, but ABC, from Goldfield's beginning, was there. They really became more of a partner to us than a bus sales or financing company.” Call 800-222-2875 or visit www.abc-companies.com for more information.
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Busline Magazine’s
Suppliers 2015 Company Profile
A Directory of Manufacturers and Suppliers to the Motorcoach, Transit, Specialty Vehicle & Para-Transit Industries
Free Listing
Deadline: Monday, June 1, 2015
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 2015,published in the July-August 2015 issue of Busline Magazine. Suppliers 2015 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 Monday, June 1, 2015. You may also email the information requested below to: drankin@consolidated.net; please use subject line, “Busline Suppliers.” Thank you for your help in making this suppliers directory the most helpful and most comprehensive yet. SUBMITTED BY: ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________ COMPANY NAME: _________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ADDRESS: _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________ CITY:____________________________________________ STATE: ___________________ ZIP: ________ COUNTRY: _____________________ TELEPHONE: _________________________________________ E-MAIL: __________________________________________________________ WEBSITE: _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________ COMPANY OFFICERS: _____________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ PRODUCTS (150 WORDS MAXIMUM) Please list products and services only.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
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ADVERTORIAL
From Bitzer: New
F-gas Regulation Is An Ambitious Goal
The new F-gas Regulation no. 517/2014 has been in place across Europe since the beginning of 2015. But what exactly does this mean for refrigeration, air conditioning and heat pump technology? Two experts from BITZER, the world’s largest independent manufacturer of refrigeration compressors and a driver of innovation for more than 80 years, answer the most important questions: Dr. Heinz Jurgensen (Director of Application Engineering and Product Performance) and Hermann Renz (Technical Programs Manager). The issue of F-gases is very topical at the moment due to the new EU regulation. But what are F-gases? Hermann Renz: F-gases are synthetically manufactured fluorinated hydrocarbons. The chemical industry has developed a wide range of F-gases as refrigerants for compression refrigeration systems, focusing on high thermodynamic efficiency and simple application. The F-gases generally used are neither toxic nor combustible, which reduces safety requirements and makes them much easier to handle. Dr. Heinz Jurgensen: A further benefit of using F-gases is that they have high thermal and chemical stability. Refrigeration systems are consequently more durable and easier to maintain. This is important as refrigerants are used under very different conditions. Furthermore, F-gases are used in other applications, for example as propellants for spray cans, as insulation gas in high voltage switchgear, as foam propellants or as extinguishing agents. And what exactly is changing as a result of the new F-gas Regulation? Hermann Renz: The regulation greatly reduces the amount of refrigerants available with high global warming potential (GWP), and in some cases even prohibits them. The charged amount no longer forms the sole basis of calculations, but now also the CO2 equivalent – as a product of the charged amount and GWP in question. Refrigerants with low GWP can therefore be used in higher volumes than those with high GWP. However, many F-gases have high GWP. This is related to their chemical stability, meaning that they remain in the atmosphere for a long time. What is the plan in terms of EU regulation? Dr. Heinz Jurgensen: The EU has set a very ambitious time frame. By 2018, the industry has to reduce the total volume of F-gas used by 37 percent. By 2030, the volume used should be only 21 percent of that used in 2015. This time frame is known as the ‘phase-down’. In addition, the commonly used refrigerant R404A will be prohibited in many stationary systems from 2020. With high GWP of 3,922, R404A is well above the permissible maximum value of 2,500. The regulation will keep us busy until it is fully implemented in 2030. Tightness checks will be intensified and we are also facing stricter certification of employees, documentation and administration. Why is the EU introducing tighter regulations with regard to F-gases? Hermann Renz: The first F-gas Regulation in effect since 2007 aimed to reduce the emissions caused by refrigerants by providing for improved containment and optimized recovery. However, the potential reductions brought about by this measure are not sufficient to achieve the ambitious climate objectives in the EU. The use of refrigerants with lower GWP can make a significant contribution to reducing emissions. Furthermore, F-gases are often used inappropriately because they are non-hazardous. Accordingly, the EU decided to prescribe more stringent requirements for periodic tightness checks in the new F-gas Regulation. So what are the refrigerants of the future? Dr. Heinz Jurgensen: We are firmly expecting hydrofluoroolefins (HFO), HFO/HFC mixes and natural refrigerants to take on greater importance and be used more frequently, as these all have low GWP. For example, CO2 (R744) is very important. BITZER has been providing CO2 compressors for more than 15 years both for trans-critical and sub-critical applications which are now very well established on the market. The product range for CO2 has also been significantly expanded. This represents a good alternative in supermarket refrigeration, in particular. And we have also products for ammonia and propane applications, of course. Why isn’t CO2 simply used all the time? Dr. Heinz Jurgensen: No refrigerant has 100 percent optimal qualities, even natural refrigerants. CO2 is without doubt one of the most important refrigerants
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of the future, as it is virtually climate-neutral with GWP of 1. In terms of its energy efficiency, however, CO2 is at a disadvantage compared to other refrigerants in cases of high ambient temperatures. This is due to the specific thermodynamic properties. Refrigerants are therefore not suitable for all operating conditions. For example, in high-performance systems such as industrial refrigeration systems, ammonia is a good option, being tried and tested and technically sophisticated. In the case of smaller cooling capacities and lower charge levels, propane is an interesting alternative that can be used safely and efficiently with relatively little effort. Does this mean that you have to design your compressors solely for a particular refrigerant? Hermann Renz: In addition to necessitating a specific compressor design, the use of natural refrigerants also requires the system’s technology to be adapted, which is shaped by factors such as safety requirements. Ammonia (NH3) is known to be toxic, hydrocarbons are flammable and CO2 has particularly high pressure levels. In the case of CO2 and NH3 applications, for example, it is not just about designing the compressors for particular operating conditions. Instead, the entire system concept differs greatly from typical F-gas systems. Accordingly, the increased application of natural refrigerants also requires staff to be qualified and receive further training. What does this mean for BITZER? Hermann Renz: The need for well-trained staff, contractors and planners will definitely increase. This is why BITZER is taking specific action to resolve the emerging problem of the shortage of skilled workers. In recent years, we have launched three training centers for CO2 systems. We are giving customers theoretical and practical training in CO2 highpressure systems in Sao Paolo, Rottenburg and Sydney. And this is proving very popular: Image: BITZER US, Inc. in Rottenburg alone, we have already completed over 100 training courses. Dr. Heinz Jurgensen: BITZER has a major advantage in terms of experience over other manufacturers in the industry. Ultimately, it is our customers who benefit from this. With our knowledge and globally respected technical support, we help to make systems more efficient. One thing is clear: system efficiency must not be allowed to suffer. Apart from CO2 and NH3 compressors, does BITZER already have products which can be used with other alternative refrigerants? Hermann Renz: We are continuously developing our compressors and getting them ready for the use of new refrigerants. For example, the entire range of semihermetic reciprocating compressors is also available in propylene (R1270) and propane (R290) versions. Similarly, several series of compact screw compressors for R290 are already available. We also offer several series of reciprocating and screw compressors suitable for the new hydrofluoroolefins (HFO) and HFO/HFC mixes. Incidentally, pure HFO refrigerants are not affected by the F-gas Regulation due to their low GWP. Dr. Heinz Jurgensen: We are well prepared due to our contacts with policymakers and refrigerant manufacturers. Accordingly, we have designed many of our compressors for alternative refrigerants. Our ECOLINE reciprocating compressors have a special design for use with the hydrocarbons propane and propylene, while the standard design is compatible with the new successors to F-gases coming to the market, as well as with HFO refrigerants and with HFO/HFC mixes. The new F-gas Regulation is only applicable in Europe. Do you see a disadvantage here compared to producers based outside of the EU? Hermann Renz: At first glance, it may seem that way. However, when you take a closer look, it is actually an advantage. Environmental protection has always been a top priority at BITZER. This gives us an advantage in terms of experience in the application of CO2 and HFO refrigerants, for example. In addition, we firmly expect that there will be similar global regulations in the near future, although they may have different goals and schedules. There is a clear trend towards lower refrigerant emissions with improved energy efficiency. Here we can build on our knowledge-based edge and achieve success around the world with our innovative developments. BITZER US, Inc. is a subsidiary of the BITZER Group of 36 companies. Visit www.bitzerus.com for more information.
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BOWMANSDALE 2112 Bumble Bee Hollow Rd. Off Rt. 15 • Mechanicsburg, PA 717-697-5383 CAMP HILL 4230 Trindle Road • 717-737-3896 CARLISLE 60 Noble Blvd. in Super Walmart 717-960-9400 608 E. High St. • 717-249-7721 1176 Harrisburg Pike • 717-243-7774 905 Walnut Bottom Rd. • 717-249-0694 CEDAR CLIFF Exit 19 off I-83 • Camp Hill, PA 717-737-6404 CHAMBERSBURG 1075 Lincoln Way East • 717-263-4601 NORTH CHAMBERSBURG 2891 Philadelphia Avenue (US 11 N.) 717-263-2970 CLEONA 493 W. Penn Avenue • 717-272-5677 COLUMBIA 1788 Columbia Ave., off Rt. 30 717-684-7048 DILLSBURG 898 North US Rt. 15 • 717-432-9500 EAST MANCHESTER 4245 North George St. • 717-266-3170 ELIZABETHTOWN 1284 S. Market St. • 717-367-6471 ENOLA Enola Rd., Exit Rt. 11 15 S. off Rt. 81 • 717-732-4228 EPHRATA 140 N. Reading Rd.• 717-733-1660 GETTYSBURG 517 S. Steinwehr Ave., Bus. Rt. 15 717-334-5920 1090 York Rd.• 717-337-1030 GREENCASTLE Rt. 16 and I-81 • 717-597-2589 HALIFAX 3761 Peter's Moutain Rd.• 717-896-2535 HANOVER 991 Carlisle St., Rt. 94 • 717-632-7531 350 Eisenhower Dr.• 717-632-0005 1448 Baltimore St. • 717-630-0337
HARRISBURG 2929 Paxton St. • 717-561-8050 4605 Jonestown Rd. 717-652-7035 7845 Linglestown Rd. 717-545-8580 Rt. 83 and Union Deposit Rd. 717-564-9320 4403 N. Front St. • 717-238-1048 Harrisburg East Mall/Rt. 83 & Paxton St. 717-561-0703 Eisenhower Blvd. I-283, Exit 1 717 -939-6972 5590 Allentown Blvd., Rt. 22 Exit 26 off I-81 • 717-652-9123 Kline Plaza, 101 S. 25th St. 717-232-0008 Uptown Shopping Center 720 Division St. • 717-236-6226 Harrisburg Airport • 717-948-3900 6535 Grayson Rd. in Wal-Mart 717 -561-0445 HERSHEY Rts. 39 and 322 • 611 E. Main St., Hummelstown • 717-566-6041 JONESTOWN Rt 72 & I-81 • 610-562-8462 LANCASTER 1880 Hempstead Rd. • 717-509-6988 Willow Valley Square • 717-464-5119 1829 Oregon Pike • 717-569-7898 1434 Manheim Pike • 717-394-3417 Rt. 30 and Centerville Rd. Lancaster, PA • 717-393-9523 68 East Town Mall, Rt. 30E Lancaster, PA • 717-394-8957 1755 Columbia Ave. Millersville Exit off Rt. 30, Rt. 462 717-397-5112 575 N. Franklin St., next to McCuskey High School • 717-394-7938 2034 Lincoln Hwy East in Wal-Mart 717-390-1099 King & Water Streets • 717-299-6699 Manor Shopping Center 1296 Millersville Pk. • 717-293-5706
LEMOYNE Rts. 11 and 15 North across from Radisson Hotel • 717-761-7992 LEBANON 1202 W. Maple St. • 717-273-8691 757 E. Cumberland St. • 717-273-9023 1725 Quentin Rd., Lebanon, PA 717-306-6565 LEWISTOWN US 522 & US 22 • 717-248-5255 121 Electric Avenue • 717-248-4447 LITITZ 990 Lititz Pike, Rt. 501 N. 717-627-4666 LITTLESTOWN 430 North Queen St. • 717-359-8946 LYKENS VALLEY 4660 Rt. 209 • 717-362-8416 MANHEIM 711 Lancaster Rd., Rt. 72 717-664-4944 MECHANICSBURG Wesley Dr. Exit, Rt. 15 717-761-7525 KMart Plaza, 5600 Carlisle Pike 717-766-9675 6250 Carlisle Pike in Wal-Mart 717-591-9864 MERCERSBURG 11924 Buchanan Trial West 717-328-0111 MIDDLETOWN 2270 W. Harrisburg Pike • 717-944-9535 MIFFLINTOWN Rt. 322 and Rt. 35, Mifflintown Exit 717-436-9779 MYERSTOWN 295 West Lincoln Avenue (Rt. 422) 717-866-2278 NEW CUMBERLAND 101 Limekiln Rd. • 717-774-1027 NEW HOLLAND 828 W. Main St. • 717-354-9300 NEW OXFORD 6040 York Rd., Rts. 30 and 94 717-624-4266
NEWPORT Rt. 322 and Rt. 34, Newport Exit 717-567-9344 PALMYRA 901 E. Main St. • 717-838-6815 PINE GROVE l-81 , Exit 31 • 717-345-6400 RED LION 897 West Broadway • 717-246-1802 655 Lombard St., Cape Horn Plaza 717-246-7801 SCOTLAND 3347 Black Gap Rd. • 717-263-7507 SHIPPENSBURG 333 East King St. • 717-532-7945 SHREWSBURY Exit 1 off I-83 • 717-235-4663 SILVER SPRING Rt. 114 and Shadow Oak Dr. Mechanicsburg, PA • 717-697-3460 SPRINGETTSBURY Hallam Exit off Rt. 30, Rt. 462 717-757-9655 WAYNESBORO 302 East Main St. • 717-762-9201 YOCUMTOWN Exit 14A off I-83 • 717-938-5705 YORK 2125 York Crossing Dr & Rt 74 717-767-1381 Exit 4, I-83, 133 Leader Heights Road 717-747-9191 York Galleria Mall • 717-757-3026 60 Arsenal Rd. • 717-699-4600 Exit 6W off I-83 • 717-845-9360 3141 Carlisle Road, Dover 717-767-2594 144-158 S. George St. • 717-846-1021 Rts. 30 & 74 in Wal-Mart 717-764-8923 380 Memory Lane • 717-757-2912 Tell us you saw this ad in Busline Magazine, and 1 driver and 1 tour guide will receive a
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