National Bus Trader Volume XLIV, No. 2 January, 2021

National Bus Trader The Magazine of Bus Equipment for the United States and Canada Volume XLIV, No. 2

January, 2021

Serving the bus industry since 1977.

Visit us at www.busmag.com.

• A Look into the Future of the Bus Industry • Women in Buses Celebrates 10th Anniversary • Who Knew There Would Be Math?

Toward a safer future

100 Cassia Way Henderson NV, 89014 702 431 0707 www.irizarusa.com

National Bus Trader The Magazine of Bus Equipment for the United States and Canada STAFF Editor & Publisher Larry Plachno

Business Manager Nancy Ann Plachno Typesetting/Page Layout Sherry Mekeel

Production/Design/Web Jake Ron Plaras

Volume XLIV

National Bus Trader 9698 W. Judson Road Polo, Illinois 61064-9015 Phone: (815) 946-2341 Web site: www.busmag.com

Number 2

January, 2021

Features CONTRIBUTORS Safety and Liability Ned Einstein Dave Millhouser

N ATIoNAL B uS T RADER (ISSN 0194-939X) is published monthly

by National Bus Trader, Inc., 9698 W. Judson Road, Polo, Illinois 61064-9015. Subscriptions, $30 (in uS funds) annually.. Printed in u.S.A. Periodicals postage paid in Polo, Illinois 61064 and at additional mailing offices.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to National Bus Trader, 9698 W. Judson Road, Polo, Illinois 61064-9015.

Change of Address: Please send old mailing label (or old address and computer number) as well as new address.

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Affiliations and Memberships: American Bus Association, The Bus History Association, Family Motor Coach Association, International Bus Collectors, North American Trackless Trolley Association, Motor Bus Society, omnibus Society of America, Tourist Railway Association, united Motorcoach Association.

N ATIoNAL B uS T RADER is THE Magazine of Bus Equipment for the United States and Canada.

The contents of this publication may not be reproduced either in whole or in part without the written consent of the publisher. The name National Bus Trader, the logo incorporating the outline of the united States, and the pricing guide to used buses are trade marks of National Bus Trader, Inc.

A Look into the Future of the Bus Industry (by Larry Plachno) . . .16 Following several requests from readers, your editor tracks down predictions from several experts, organizations and groups on what to expect in the future and applies them to the bus industry.

ABA’s Women in Buses Celebrates 10-Year Anniversary of Council Being Part of Industry Evolution . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 January of 2021 marks the 10th anniversary of the founding of the ABA Women in Buses Council in 2011 to recognize the significant role of women in the motorcoach and tour/travel industry.

Who Knew There Would be Math? (by Dave Millhouser) . . . . . . .26 Based on driving an ancient Brill with questionable brakes that required thinking ahead, Dave Millhouser suggests that operating buses also requires long-term thinking, particularly when picking bus suppliers.

OTHER ARTICLES

We Have Decided to Support the Bus Industry

by Going Digital (by Larry Plachno) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 Facing the worst problem to ever hit the bus industry, our editor explains why going digital lets us continue to serve the bus industry.

Cover Photo The MCI J4500 has been the most popular coach on the American market for a decade and a half. This night photo brings out the attractive appearance of this model. To look where the bus industry is going in the future, see the article starting on page 16.

MCI.

Departments Equipment News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Bus Equipment People . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Safety and Liability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Advertiser’s Index appears on page 30

National Bus Trader / January, 2021 • 3

From the Editor’s Desk

We Have Decided to Support the Bus Industry

by Going Digital

T

he first issue of N ATIONAL B US T RADER in December of 1977 consisted of three sheets of paper. Within months the bus industry gave its approval and by the end of the year NATIONAL BUS TRADER was a slick-paper color magazine.

Our November 2020 issue completed 43 years of publication. We survived the fuel crisis of 1979, the recession of 1991 and the tragedy of 9/11/01. However, the current pandemic is unprecedented and has had a disastrous impact on the bus industry.

Never before have the bus and hospitality industries been faced with a situation like this. Some attractions have been able to reopen by requiring guests to wear masks and adhere to social distancing.

Some buses have been modified and can be used with smaller groups. The overall impact of the pandemic has been devastating. One source says that more than 400 bus operations shut down in 2020. Both the bus and hospitality industries are struggling to survive.

NATIONAL BUS TRADER has been caught in the impact of the pandemic. While many bus operations are struggling to get back on their feet, the industry itself has slowed considerably. Sales of new buses and supplies have declined substantially. While the experts recommend continued marketing in a recession to let customers know you are here for them, many if not most industry suppliers are holding back on marketing for 2021.

The result of this is that NATIONAL BUS TRADER has been faced with an inability to continue offering a print publication. We had only two choices. One was to quit entirely while the other was to switch to a digital format. We have elected to continue to support the bus industry with a digital format until the situation improves.

Many readers and advertisers have recommended for several years that we keep up with the times and go digital. Our sister publication, BUS TOURS MAGAZINE, has offered a digital version since 2003 and has devel-

4 • National Bus Trader / January, 2021

oped a strong digital following. There are several advantages for both readers and advertisers with a digital format.

Readers will appreciate the fact that with eliminating the need for printing and mailing, the digital edition can be available as much as two weeks earlier. Another major advantage is that with many people now working outside of the office, the digital edition can be sourced from home, from the office and even while on the road. Another advantage is that going digital will eliminate the need for address changes when moving.

Advertisers will appreciate the fact that in going digital, we can reduce rates while substantially increasing circulation. There is also a major advantage in marketing since we can hyperlink digital ads to your Web site or order page – thus taking advantage of immediate response from readers.

There are also other advantages. Going digital will eliminate the problems of mailing copies to readers in Canada and other foreign countries. The digital format will also eliminate the need to edit things down to a specific number of pages to fit on the printing press.

This will provide more leeway in including material and in offering more articles and more pages.

We ask your patience while we make these changes. Here are the basics:

• Advertisers can phone us at (815) 946-2341 or e-mail us at adv@busmag.com or Nancy@busmag.com to get your message into the digital N ATIONAL B US TRADER.

• Digital editions will be available on our updated Web site at busmag.com.

• For subscribers, if we have your e-mail address we are working on establishing a program to get an e-mail out to you.

• Paid subscribers who have not provided their e-mail address should send them

to readers@busmag.com so we can add your e-mail to our list.

• Free issues will be available for those who are not subscribers.

• If you would like to see a return of the print edition, you can encourage industry suppliers to increase their marketing budgets.

Thank you for your past support. We appreciate your continued support in the future so we can continue to help the bus industry in this difficult time.

Larry Plachno Editor

Equipment News Van Hool Ships First Electric Coach to the U.S. Van Hool, an independent Belgian manufacturer of buses, coaches and industrial vehicles, has shipped the first CX45E, a 100 percent battery-electric coach, to the US. After an intense period of development and testing, the CX45E is now being commercially launched by Van Hool’s North American exclusive distributor ABC Bus Companies Inc. An additional 10 units will be shipped to the U.S. in the first half of 2021.

The all-electric CX45E will then be delivered to two North American customers.

The CX45E is a fully electric powered coach for the North American market. Proterra, a leading American producer of battery technology for heavy-duty vehicles, was selected by Van Hool to supply the E2 battery technology. The 100 percent electrically driven vehicle has a range of up to 310 miles, depending on the climate conditions and the route’s topography. The CX45E will mainly be used for commuting by groups of employees and/or regular passenger transport.

Filip Van Hool, CEO of Van Hool, explained: “With this announcement it all became a reality. A few years ago we put the first technical concepts of the CX45E on paper, and today the end-result leaves for the U.S. We were, of course, able to draw on our vast experience we have built up over decades in the design and production of electric buses. In 1985 we built our first trol-

ley electric buses. In 2005 we were the first manufacturer to design a hydrogen-powered electric bus for the North American market, and the platform of our successful Exqui.City trambus can be equipped with different electric drivetrains. In total, more than 1,000 electrically powered vehicles have left Van Hool’s factory. And we will continue our efforts to market environmentally friendly and cost-efficient electric vehicles in the future, both in Europe and in our second home market – North America.”

Filip Van Hool adds: “Though not as prominent as in North America, in Europe too we see growing interest in a European version of the electric coach. With the experience gained in developing the CX45E, we firmly believe we are ready to quickly deliver a solution for customers who are looking for such a product, if European interest becomes more pronounced.”

“The cooperation between Van Hool and its distributor in the North American market, ABC Bus Companies Inc., began 33 years ago,” says Filip Van Hool. “After all these years of hard work, together we have managed to put Van Hool on the map in America.

Today there are more than 11,000 Van Hool coaches and buses on U.S. roads serving many customers, including a number of large Silicon Valley companies that organize shuttles for their employees. As there was demand from several customers for fully electrically powered vehicles, we at Van Hool and ABC Bus Companies Inc., looked

for a solution. Van Hool is excited and proud to work with Proterra, a pioneering company in the development and production of battery technology.”

The CX45E was designed, developed and prototyped at the parent company in Koningshooikt, Belgium. The productionready versions of the 10 CX45E coaches planned for the first half of 2021 will also come from the Belgian factory. The vehicles will be driven from Koningshooikt to Zeebrugge for shipment to the U.S. Van Hool is an independent Belgian bus, coach and industrial vehicle manufacturer.

The company, which was founded in 1947, is based in Koningshooikt. The vast majority of units produced are destined for Europe and the U.S. Van Hool has around 4,100 staff worldwide, the majority of whom work at the production facilities in Koningshooikt (Belgium) and Skopje (North Macedonia).

Prevost Delivers Two Commuter Coaches to BSOOB Transit Prevost announced Biddeford Saco Old Orchard Beach Transit, located in southeastern Maine, has taken delivery of two 2021 Prevost X3-45 commuter coaches. The coaches are the first new additions of any kind to the BSOOB fleet in nearly 10 years and will replace two units that were deemed beyond their useful life.

“Prevost is extremely pleased to partner with BSOOB Transit on the purchase of two

Van Hool recently shipped its first CX445E battery-electric coach to the United States. Developed and built at Van Hool’s headquarters in Koningshooikt, Belgium.

The CX45E was designed specifically for the American market and will be sold by Van Hool’s exclusive North American distributor, ABC Companies.

With a range of up to 310 miles on a single charge, the CX45E will be suited to commuter and shuttle operations.

6 • National Bus Trader / January, 2021

Equipment News new commuter coaches,” said Karen Honeysett, director of public sector for Prevost. “The X3-45 commuter offers a smooth, quiet ride for both drivers and passengers, as well as the quality and safety Prevost is known for.”

In 1998, BSOOB Transit introduced ZOOM Express, a convenient and affordable commuter option designed to transport workers into Portland. However, in recent years, locals have seen the BSOOB area grow and change, and with that progress, they are now seeing riders travel in both directions. In 2019, BSOOB Transit transported more than 360,000 passengers to and from their destinations.

“We are thrilled to take delivery of our two new Prevost coaches,” said Tony Scavuzzo, executive director of BSOOB Transit. “The units will ensure ZOOM Express service between Biddeford/Saco, and Portland will remain reliable and provide increased comfort for our loyal passengers traveling daily to Portland’s peninsula.”

Featuring an integral chassis-body structure which provides the strongest, safest and most durable foundation in the industry, each coach is powered by a 435HP Volvo D13 diesel engine and Allison transmission.

With the longest wheelbase in the industry, passengers can expect a smoother, more comfortable ride as well as a great view from any one of the 51 seats. The Prevostpatented frameless windows offer abundant natural light and the nearly 80-inch interior environment provides more interior height than other commuter coaches in the market.

“We’ve worked hard to make and save enough money to buy new instead of used,” said Craig Pendleton, director of external affairs for BSOOB Transit. “With the help of Maine DOT and Federal Transit Administration, we finally have new buses to play with.” In response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, BSOOB elected to add the Prevost driver protection system in each coach to help ensure safety for both drivers and passengers. The transparent barrier kit is available for retrofit and offers an encapsulated area for drivers without obstructing visibility.

The new BSOOB X3-45s began ZOOM Express service on November 2, 2020 including two new stops – one at the Saco Transportation Center and one at Mercy Hospital. For more information, visit bsoobtransit.org.

Prevost is a leading manufacturer of premium intercity touring coaches and the world leader in the production of conversion coaches for high-end motorhome and specialty conversion. As part of the Volvo Group,

Biddeford Saco Old Orchard Beach Transit recently took delivery of two new Prevost X3-45 Commuter Coaches. The coaches will be used on the ZOOM Express service between Biddeford/Saco and Portland. The service has recently seen an increase in passengers traveling in both directions.

it has access to the financial strength, research capability, and manufacturing expertise of the group. The Volvo Group is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of heavy-duty diesel engines. Prevost has its main manufacturing facilities in Sainte-Claire, Quebec, Canada and has nineteen Parts and Service Centers located in the United States and Canada.

CCW Rehabs Five Buses for Yamhill County Transit Complete Coach Works (CCW) announced on December 21 that it was recently awarded a contract from Yamhill County Transit (Yamhill Transit) to supply three 30-foot and two 35-foot remanufactured Gillig buses.

In the height of the Covid-19 pandemic essential businesses, including public transit agencies, implemented safety and caution procedures for their employees and riders.

Yamhill County Transit is among the many agencies to require face coverings, include hand sanitizer stations and enforce physical distancing of at least six feet.

In order to promote social distancing, Yamhill Transit will add five remanufactured buses to its fleet. The buses will service its local routes in McMinnville and Newberg, Oregon. “Adding rehabbed buses to Yamhill’s fleet will not only minimize overcrowding, but will provide Yamhill a large savings over acquiring new buses,” states Jim Paul, regional sales manager at CCW. “Purchasing rehabbed buses is the most cost-effective and efficient way to provide safe and reliable transportation to its riders.”

This rehab project will take place at CCW’s headquarters located in Riverside, California. The rehabilitation will include

replacement of the original engines with Recon Cummins ISL engines. In addition, the buses will include Allison B400R transmissions, new driver seats, new floors, new interior and exterior LED lighting, and ADA compliant wheelchair ramps. The buses will then be painted and decaled to reflect Yamhill’s branding.

“We look forward to the successful completion of this project. Our goal is to improve customer satisfaction. We are elated Yamhill will be able to offer a more comfortable experience to its passengers,” added Paul.

Complete Coach Works (CCW) is the largest bus remanufacturing and rehabilitation company in the United States, with more than 30 years in the transportation industry. A pioneer in the field of alternative fuel and hybrid vehicle technology, CCW has always worked to provide clean vehicles through innovative design and engineering, and it unveiled the world’s first remanufactured all-electric, battery-powered bus in 2012. For jobs of any size, CCW’s team of more than 350 experts always provides cutting-edge products and exceptional customer service.

NCCU Gets Two Prevost H3-45 Coaches Prevost announced North Carolina Central University (NCCU) in Durham, North Carolina, has taken delivery of two 2020 H3-45 coaches to be used for student transportation.

Freshly wrapped with eye-catching NCCU Eagles graphics, the coaches arrived in style on the beautiful NCCU campus at the Shepard Administration circle where they were met by socially distanced faculty and staff of the esteemed university. “We’re National Bus Trader / January, 2021 • 7

Equipment News thrilled to introduce the coaches to our student body,” said Dr. Johnson Akinleye, chancellor of NCCU. “We trust Prevost to provide a safe ride for our students, as well as a quality vehicle we can count on.”

The coaches are equipped with Prevost Driver Assist™, which fully integrates radar, camera and brake technologies for motorcoach applications. The data from these technologies works together, gathering and sharing information, functioning simultaneously to create driver assistance aimed at reducing incidents and lowering operational costs.

“The coaches will be used for student transportation of all kinds,” said Phillip Vereen, transportation director for NCCU. “From student government events to athletics, the coaches will provide a safe, comfortable ride for students, faculty and staff alike.” In addition to Prevost Driver Assist™ for collision mitigation, the coaches also feature Prevost’s surround camera system for enhanced driver visibility, perimeter intelligent loading and navigation lights.

“We are honored to partner with NCCU,” said Jay Snead, regional sales manager for Prevost. “The luxury spec’d H3-45 touring coaches offer the most advanced safety options to provide drivers and passengers the ultimate peace of mind.”

For increased passenger comfort and productivity, each coach is also equipped

North Carolina Central University in Durham, North Carolina recently took delivery of two new Prevost H3-45 coaches. The coaches feature Prevost Driver Assist, Prevost’s Surround Camera System, perimeter intelligent loading and navigation lights. Their first trip came on November 25 when the NCCU Lady Eagles basketball team defeated Campbell University 70-65 in double overtime.

with the ICOMERA Wi-Fi and entertainment system. “With ICOMERA onboard, students can keep up with their studies while traveling to and from their destinations,” said Snead.

The coaches made their maiden voyage to Campbell University on November 25 with the NCCU Lady Eagles basketball team.

The Lady Eagles defeated Campbell 70-65 in double overtime, making the journey a victorious one.

ABC Offers Diesel to Electric Repower Program ABC Companies, a leading provider to the motorcoach, transit and specialty passenger transportation market in the United States and Canada, will soon be the first to offer a motorcoach-diesel-to-electric-

In what must be considered a revolutionary concept in coaches, ABC Companies is now able to take diesel coaches and repower them with battery-electric drive lines. Working together with Lightning eMotors, ABC is now able to offer diesel to electric repower kits that are installed by ABC technicians.

ABC has a long history in repowering and refurbishing including major programs for large operators.

8 • National Bus Trader / January, 2021

repower program for North American operators.

Together with Lightning eMotors, formerly known as Lightning Systems, the partners have created a five-step process for identifying, assessing and converting a wide range of “donor” diesel coach models that fit the criteria for fast-track battery electric conversion. The repower kits are engineered

by Lightning eMotors and will be installed

by ABC technicians. The program will launch under ABC Companies SVT (Specialty Vehicles and Technologies) division, underscoring the company’s focus on lowering EV market cost of entry barriers for coach operators.

“ABC Companies has a very long history of repower and refurbishment expertise, making conversions to battery electric power a logical next step,” said Roman Cornell, president and chief commercial officer of ABC Companies. By sourcing leading suppliers and manufacturers, we will provide a portfolio of offerings and price points that will enable our customers to accelerate their introduction of zeroemission vehicles into their fleets. Although the pandemic has impacted the motorcoach market, we are working to get traditional vehicles back on the road, while investing now with innovative new solutions which will address customers’ needs for environmentally-friendly vehicles as the industry begins to recover.”

In spite of these challenging times, many ABC customers and the clients they serve are developing strategies to reduce their carbon footprint, a trend that was started well before the pandemic, noted Cornell.

With the cost of current options that organizations face to reduce their carbon footprint ranging from clean energy like solar panels to the enormous expense of upgrading or building new energy-efficient facilities, battery-electric coaches suddenly become an attractive lower-cost alternative

Equipment News “Zero-emission coaches can offer a lower-cost investment, while producing immediate benefits to the environment. With the variety of incentives for all-electric transportation, many customers are investing now before funding is depleted or no longer available,” Cornell added. “Many see zeroemission coaches as a mobile billboard in their communities, demonstrating an organization’s commitment to the communities where they work and live. The realm of possibilities is exciting, and ABC will work to educate and promote its EV-based solutions to customers in partnership with Lightning eMotors.”

Cornell cited reduced total cost of ownership and monetizing older assets as tangible benefits when specifically looking to add EV Repower to fleets.

The new partnership between ABC Companies and Lightning eMotors was formed after a global search for a master service provider with the scope, scale, experience and expertise to develop EV Repower kits for a variety of customers and vehicle applications. Lightning eMotors is a leading developer of zero-emission electric powertrains for a wide variety of commercial vehicles and is certified by CARB and multiple OEM chassis certification programs.

In addition to providing a full range of motorcoach zero emission vehicle (ZEV) Repower options, ABC will also be an authorized referral agent for repowering many popular shuttle vans and cutaway applications such as the Lightning Ford Transit passenger van, E-450 and F-550 chassis. “The ability to assist in electric repowered solutions for our customers using these popular vehicles made Lightning eMotors a great fit for ABC Companies,” Cornell said. “Many of our customers utilize these smaller vehicles for various short distance routes, such as airport runs and hotel shuttles, as well as last-mile services for smaller groups. These vehicles can provide a lower cost of entry as fleets identify vehicles to be repowered, and we need to be ready to meet those needs.”

The first repowered motorcoach, a 2012 Van Hool T2145 will be going into operation in the San Francisco area recently, while other motorcoach models are being readied as this is written.

“When Roman and I took this zero emissions motorcoach out for a drive for the first time together, both of us couldn’t stop smiling—the smoothness, the quietness, the power—we both could see that this changes the motorcoach business forever.

We are now accelerating additional rollouts of new repower options for a multitude of new motorcoach platforms,” said Tim Reeser, CEO of Lightning eMotors. “ABC’s expertise in the motorcoach market and deep knowledge of their large customer base’s needs and requirements combined with Lightning’s proven technical proficiency, provides a powerful, fast, costeffective zero-emission option specifically engineered to support each operator’s sustainability goals.”

In addition to delivering the first repowered motorcoach application and launching the Lightning eMotors EV Repower kit option, ABC will also debut its first fully battery-electric OEM-produced Van Hool motorcoach later in 2020, the Van Hool CX45E. Featured at the 2020 UMA Expo and designed specifically for battery electric power, this new coach from Van Hool will change the way the industry views zeroemissions motorcoach travel.

“We must continually reassess our offering based on customer needs,” Cornell said.

“Aligning with the right partners to bring scalable and flexible solutions to our customers is what drives our business strategies. Whether our customer needs an EV passenger van or a double-deck motor-

National Bus Trader / January, 2021 • 9

Equipment News coach, ABC is ready to help any sized fleet operator shape a solution around their resources and requirements for the longterm. We are also adding repowered Ford Transit passenger vans to our electric-powered ABC demo fleet, allowing customers to experience the many benefits of EV travel, while helping to educate our industry on the viability of these vehicles in their fleets,” Cornell added. “Even against the backdrop of our industry’s unprecedented challenges, technology moves forward. Because the success of ABC has always been tied to our customers’ success, we cannot allow our industry to fall behind this technology curve and lose out on the funding and other support many industries are already receiving.

Motorcoach travel has always contributed to lowering carbon emissions, and the movement to electric power presents the opportunity for our industry to receive the accolades and increased ridership it truly deserves.”

ABC Companies is a leading provider to the transportation industry with diverse product and service offerings that cover a full spectrum of operational needs including new and pre-owned, full-size highway coach equipment along with transit and specialty vehicles. ABC supports customers with a comprehensive after sale service network for service and repairs, collision services, extensive OEM and quality aftermarket parts needs for transit, motorcoach and heavyduty equipment from 10 strategically placed locations throughout the U.S. and Canada.

Additionally, private and municipal financing and leasing options are available through

the company’s financial services group – one of the largest financial service providers within the industry. For more information, contact ABC Companies at (800) 222-2875 or visit the company web site at abc-companies.com.

Daimler Coaches Expands Aftermarket Sales and Service Daimler Buses is further strengthening its motorcoach business in the U.S. by joining forces with its North American business unit Daimler Coaches North America (DCNA), the parts distribution of Daimler Trucks North America (DTNA) and distributors of Detroit Diesel engines. Setra operators will now fully benefit from the unique infrastructure that DTNA operates in North America.

Till Oberwoeder, head of Daimler Buses, outlines: “With the foundation of our business unit DCNA, Daimler Buses demonstrates with our North American bus operations its commitment to the North American motorcoach industry and its ambition to continually grow in this core market. By leveraging our Daimler infrastructure in North America, we will provide best in class service to our Setra operators and continue to expand our customer base.”

As of September 2020 DCNA has partnered with four experienced and highly qualified Detroit Diesel Distributors in the U.S. to significantly grow its service network: • Interstate Companies (Midwest) • Penn Power Group (Northeast) • Stewart and Stevenson (Southeast)

Setra coaches will benefit from an expanded Daimler Aftermarket Parts and Service Network. Setra service will be available at Detroit Diesel Distributors while parts will be distributed through the Daimler Truck North America supply chain. Shown here is a Setra coach at the recent UMA show in Louisville.

• Valley Power Systems (West coast).

Daimler Coaches North America has qualified eight new workshop locations for those selected Detroit Diesel distributors, to perform dedicated motorcoach service.

These service locations will expand their service for Detroit Diesel engines and Allison transmissions to full coach support.

Their service will now include electrical, HVAC, pneumatics and interiors. Customers will benefit from this unique full coach service to the industry: the new workshop set-up will enable Setra operators to have all of their coach service performed in one location by specialized coach mechanics, resulting in reduced service repair times for our operators.

Additionally, the new service locations are qualified to serve as selling points for motorcoach spare-parts offering a true one stop shopping experience to Setra operators.

Thomas Rohde, head of Daimler Coaches North America, adds: “These new workshop locations in the U.S. offer a service coverage and parts supply that operators expect from Setra as the premium motorcoach brand. It is our ultimate target to minimize idle times for our customers – wherever they need us, we will be there.”

The backbone of the aftermarket parts distribution is the DTNA supply chain, which includes 10 parts distribution centers (PDC) across the U.S. and Canada, as well as a Dedicated Delivery Service (DDS) for nextday delivery on 90 percent of orders. Setra’s motorcoach parts are integrated into DTNA’s existing support of more than 50 product lines that serve the commercial transportation industry with reliable new and remanufactured parts. In working with DTNA’s aftermarket, Detroit Diesel’s service partners will be able to leverage its best-in-industry supply chain network, ensuring fast and reliable supply for Setra motorcoach operators.

Prevost Touts its Largest Service Network Never before has loyalty to customers and the motorcoach industry been more vital than during these unprecedented times.

Through it all, Prevost remains committed, offering customers consistent support through the largest service network in the motorcoach industry.

“Prevost recognizes the importance of customer support, now even more than ever,” said Kevin Dawson, vice president of parts and service. “We want customers to know we’re here to help, and we’re not going anywhere.”

10 • National Bus Trader / January, 2021

Prevost’s vast network includes 17 OEMowned service locations and 60 mobile

Equipment News

Prevost justifiably touts its impressive service network that is the largest in the industry. In addition to 17 owned service locations, Prevost also has 60 service vans on the road. The network can boast of having approximately 175 factory-trained technicians to service their customers’ buses.

service vans strategically stationed throughout North America. “Prevost service centers are more accommodating than ever,” said Prevost owner-operator Joel Prive of Lamoille Valley Transportation. “I sent a text to set up service for the next day. It was after 7 p.m., but I received confirmation that evening. What more can you ask for? Buy the best, get the best.” Each service center and mobile unit is staffed with factory-trained technicians – focused on motorcoaches – ready and willing to perform work on any make or model of motorcoach.

“Our factory-certified technicians are trained to work on any motorcoach make or model,” said Randy Castillo, service network director. “Whether a Prevost, a Volvo or any of our competitor brands, we provide exceptional service with a quick turnaround to get you back on the road right away.”

Prevost offers a large inventory of genuine parts in addition to parts for all makes and models available for order from centralized parts warehouses, with many fast-moving parts available at one of the 17 service centers throughout North America. In addition to exceptional availability, most parts purchased and installed in a Prevost Service Center also come with a one-year warranty.

“We’re proud to offer Prevost Uptime, our preventive service agreement program,”

Several Nashville stars have made special efforts to support the bus industry.

Recently, country singer Karen Waldrup came to a Tennessee Motorcoach Association meeting to speak to a senator and a congressman in attendance about why they needed to support the bus industry.

said Craig Heaton, business development manager. “Using our OEM-established maintenance intervals, or Service-At-AGlance, service agreements ensure each vehicle is well-serviced making it more reliable and fuel-efficient, while also lowering the total cost of ownership for the operator.”

For customers looking to ease their budget, reduce unplanned stops and keep vehicles on the road, Prevost Uptime is the solution. Prevost Uptime service agreements implement fixed costs and include scheduled maintenance for engines, exhaust aftertreatment systems, transmissions, axles and chassis. Additionally, all services completed through the Prevost Uptime program are accompanied by a 24-month warranty on both parts and labor.

With more OEM-owned service centers than its top three competitors combined and a specialized customer support team with more than 260 years of industry experience, Prevost is committed to its customers and to the motorcoach industry now more than ever.

Nashville Stars Support the Bus Industry Several Nashville stars have gone out of their way to support the bus industry.

Recently, country singer Karen Waldrup came to a Tennessee Motorcoach Associ-

ation meeting to speak to the senator and congressman in attendance about why they needed tp support the bus industry. Here are some of her comments.

“I’m a small town girl from South Louisiana that has been picking a guitar and singing full-time for the last eight years. It literally happened one day at a time for me.

One fan at a time. After several years of touring in a 15-passenger van and sometimes doing makeup in the front seat, I finally arrived at the opportunity to ride on a tour bus. We traveled on the bus all of 2019, playing all over the country. The feeling of riding in the back of a bus is indescribable because it takes all the pain out of the traveling experience. Without it, you can arrive at a show and be exhausted from the travel.

But, the show must go on. The bus allows us to really relax all day before the show which greatly impacts the experience because the fans have a more pleasant version of us. If we are going to travel all the way across the country to meet them, we want them to meet us. Not a tired version of us. It was so great and we had a full year of touring on the books for 2020.

“Then, Covid. We lost the shows, and the buses are sitting still. We are sitting still. We are not playing shows because we do not know if people will come to the show and purchase a ticket. Therefore, we wait for National Bus Trader / January, 2021 • 11

Equipment News each other. The buses wait for us while we wait for them. They cannot roll without us and we cannot roll without them. I am in great support of the CARES act because I know the transportation and music industry are in serious trouble. Venues are closing all over the nation. Please do not let us lose our buses too. It is physically impossible to do some of these back-to-back shows without the bus because we drive through the night. We park by the venue and walk right in. It drives the entire experience – literally.

Please join me and supporting the motorcoach industry by supporting the CARES act. When this mess is over, we hope to step foot on the bus and start the tour clock over again. In the same way, please save our motorcoach and transportation business.”

Vicinity to Offer Electric Buses Grande West Transportation Group Inc., a Canadian manufacturer of mid-sized multipurpose transit vehicles for sale in Canada and the United States, has announced that it has engaged with LION Smart GmbH to integrate BMW technology as its electric vehicle (“EV”) solution.

The company is launching its new purpose-built Vicinity LT EV bus in the fourth quarter of 2020 and partnering with LION Smart engineering services for development and integration of the power management system. The contract between Grande West Transportation and LION Smart includes engineering services covering software, mechanical and electrical adaptation, battery management and the integration of 400V BMW battery packs into the Vicinity LT EV. As part of this contract, LION Smart is carrying out high-tech work of integrating the BMW battery pack solution. The demonstration Vicinity LT EV is scheduled for delivery to Grande West in the first quarter of 2021. After successful completion of the development project, subsequent orders for the supply of battery packs in significant quantities are possible for 2021. The BMW high voltage batteries developed for the BMW i3 will be used for the Vicinity LT EV. The BMW i batteries are a proven EV solution in many applications other than just the i3, with more than 100,000 BMW i battery packs sold worldwide.

"We are happy about the development contract from Grande West Transportation and the acquisition of another customer in North America," said Thomas Hetmann, managing director of LION Smart GmbH. "Integration work and its following commercial production series supply represents a lucrative and scalable business model. This contract shows that our services as a specialist for engineering services are in demand and that other customers are also interested in our expertise in this area”.

12 • National Bus Trader / January, 2021

Thomas Built Buses was selected as the sole provider of all 50 electric school buses by Dominion Energy for the initial phase of their electric school bus program to support Virginia schools. The Thomas Saf-T-Liner C2 Jouley electric bus is powered by Proterra electric vehicle technology. Shown here are some of the buses at the event that took place on October 27 in Evington, Virginia.

William Trainer, president and CEO of Grande West, stated, “We are very excited to be working with LION Smart and BMW technology to bring our EV to the market.

We have taken our time to select the best technology partners in the industry by using a proven, off the shelf, upgradeable automotive-style solution. We are receiving a lot of interest in our Vicinity LT EV bus, which is available for deliveries in 2021. We will be announcing further information about the product launch shortly.”

Thomas Delivers Proterra Electric School Buses in Virginia Thomas Built Buses (TBB), a leading manufacturer of school buses in North America, its exclusive Virginia dealer, Sonny Merryman, and Proterra, a leading innovator in heavy-duty electric transportation, recently celebrated the arrival of the first Saf-T-Liner C2 Jouley battery-electric school buses in Virginia under phase one of Dominion Energy’s Electric School Bus Initiative. The celebration took place on October 27 in Evington, Virginia.

In December, 2019, Dominion Energy selected TBB as the sole provider of all 50 electricschool buses allocated for the initial phase of their electric school bus program, which aims to support Virginia school districts as they transition their school bus fleets from diesel to electric. The program will also allow Dominion Energy to explore the battery storage capabilities of electric school buses to provide reliability-related services on the electric grid. The program represents the largest planned deployment of electric school buses in the United States.

“Electric school buses provide an innovative, sustainable solution that will help the environment, protect children's health, make the electric grid stronger and free up money for our schools," said Dan Weekley, vice president of innovation policy and development, Dominion Energy. “We’re excited to see these buses start to arrive in the Commonwealth and we look forward to working with school districts across Virginia to get this new technology on the roads.”

“Our team has always prided ourselves as innovation leaders in pupil transportation,” said Floyd Merryman, president and CEO of Sonny Merryman. “Dominion’s initiative is especially exciting not just for us but also for Virginia’s students and our many loyal partners across the Commonwealth’s public education community.”

The unveiling of Virginia’s first electric school buses builds on additional recent deployments of Saf-T-Liner C2 Jouley electric school buses across the United States, including deliveries in Alaska, Illinois, Massachusetts and Michigan.

“We are thrilled to pave the way for a cleaner future for the children in Virginia,” said Caley Edgerly, president and CEO of TBB. “We believe electric school buses to be the future of pupil transportation and with quieter operation, lower operating costs and zero emissions, Virginia school districts should quickly realize the cost and societal benefits of this school bus fleet conversion.”

TBB’s all-electric Saf-T-Liner C2 Jouley electric school bus is equipped with the

Equipment News same vehicle quality, durability, performance, safety and comfort as the popular Saf-T-Liner C2. Jouley is powered by Proterra electric vehicle technology and is configured with 220 kWh of total energy capacity, a two-speed transmission and an estimated operating range of up to 135 miles. TBB is currently the only school bus manufacturer to offer DC fast charging architecture as standard equipment. Jouley can charge in about three hours and can supply power back to the power grid using vehicle to grid (V2G) technology.

“Battery-electric school buses offer a safe and reliable mode of transportation that improves air quality and protects the health of our students and communities. Now, thanks to the leadership of Dominion Energy, we’re excited to go even further by showing how embracing electric school buses can also strengthen the electricity grid. Along with our partners Thomas Built Buses and Sonny Merryman, Proterra is proud to help power the single largest deployment of electric school buses in the United States with our electric vehicle technology,” said Jack Allen, Proterra CEO. TBB and Proterra offer electrical infrastructure project management and a comprehensive turnkey solution for EV integration. Known as the Electric Bus Authority Program, Thomas Built Buses works oneon-one with customers through the entire EV planning and implementation process.

The Largest Electric Bus Order in History Yutong Bus Co., Ltd. has received an order of about $275,000 for 1,002 buses from Mowasalat, the Qatar public transport company, that will provide commuting

services for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.

Seven hundred forty-one will be electric, making it the largest order of EV buses ever.

"Yutong Bus will continue to work closely with local partners to accelerate the public transportation system build-up with green energy solution," said Shen Hui, general manager of Yutong Bus in the Middle East. "The KD factory for EV buses with Qatar Free Zones Authority (QFZA) and Mowasalat will realize localized design and manufacturing of EV buses in Qatar, offering more experience and technologies to aid the sustainable development of local public transportation."

For Yutong Bus, Qatar 2022 will be yet another major international sporting event for which the company has provided service and support following the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia, as well as multiple international conferences such as APEC meetings. With the ability and experience to serve major international events, along with an extraordinary quality of products, Yutong Bus once again wins the trust from client.

As an innovator in the international new energy bus field, Yutong Bus has taken the lead in the research and development of bus energy conservation and new energy exploration. Now it has fully mastered the core technologies in design and manufacturing of new energy empowered vehicle, such as EV bus matching and optimization, system integration and control, and bus wireless charging. Yutong Bus has established the largest manufacturing base of new energy vehicles in China to apply with pioneering technology

Thirty-two new electric double-deck buses have contributed to cleaner air in and around Manchester, England. The buses were built by Alexander Dennis, a subsidiary of NFI Group. This is the largest fleet of electric double-deck buses outside of London.

from its state-leveled research and development center.

Alexander Dennis Electric DoubleDecks in Manchester, England Alexander Dennis Limited (ADL) and BYD Europe jointly announced on December 8 that 32 electric double deck buses supplied by their electric vehicle partnership to bus operator Stagecoach have contributed to better air quality in Greater Manchester during the region’s pandemic lockdowns, with 600,000 zero emission miles operated to date. ADL is a subsidiary of leading independent global bus manufacturer NFI Group Inc. (NFI), while BYD is a global leader in batteries, energy management and electric mobility.

ADL and BYD supplied the 32 BYD ADL Enviro400EV to Stagecoach Manchester at the start of the year, with the operator’s own investment in the £16.5 million project supported by the Government’s Ultra Low Emission Bus Scheme. They are the UK’s largest fleet of zero-emission double deck buses outside the capital.

The clean buses entered service on two high frequency services connecting Manchester city centre, Manchester Airport, five hospitals and two universities just before the coronavirus pandemic led to the first countrywide lockdown.

Stagecoach continued to operate the vehicles throughout this period, deploying them on additional services whenever possible so that further parts of Greater Manchester could benefit from improved air quality thanks to the electric buses’ absence of tailpipe emissions.

This operational flexibility has been enabled by the BYD ADL Enviro400EV’s significant range on a single charge, which allows all charging to take place in the depot.

Stagecoach’s UK managing director, Carla Stockton-Jones, comments: “Air pollution is the biggest environmental health risk we face today. As operator of Britain’s biggest fleet of buses and coaches, we recognize we have a responsibility to play our part in delivering cleaner air. That’s why we’ve invested £1 billion in 7,000 new greener vehicles and technologies in the past decade, with the new Manchester buses representing one of Europe’s largest single investments in electric buses.

“The biggest way we can address air quality and climate change is not by just replacing one technology for another. It’s by fundamental changes in the way we live and behave. One of the biggest opportunities for our country as part of a strategy to build back better is to switch from cars to more sustainable and healthier public transport and active travel.” q National Bus Trader / January, 2021 • 13

Bus Equipment People Complete Coach Works Complete Coach Works (CCW) is proud to welcome Tracy Owen as the company’s newest regional sales manager. With more than 30 years of unique experience and expertise in sales, Owen will continue to build his success with CCW, the nation’s leading bus remanufacturing company.

Owen has worked as a sales manager in both the transit bus and motorcoach industries. He is well rounded and has experience working in several facets of the bus industry, such as refurbishments, OEM and preowned bus sales.

Throughout his Tracy Owen tenure in the industry, he has developed many relationships with transit agency personnel, bus companies, owners, operators and other industry professionals.

“I’m very excited to join Complete Coach Works. The company has many options to offer its customers and has earned respect as the nation’s leader in remanufacturing. I look forward to serving the industry and to be entrusted to represent Complete Coach Works as a regional sales manager,” states Owen.

Owen will lead the sales organization of the Central and Southern regions. He will

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If you click on them you will surf to the Website of the advertiser.

14 • National Bus Trader / January, 2021

assist in providing sales and support to CCW’s cliental and build relationships with potential customers.

Brad Carson, director of sales and marketing at CCW, states, “Tracy is an excellent addition to the CCW family. Tracy brings a proven track record of sales management with solid industry experience.

We are confident he will serve our customers and provide them with the best service possible.”

Proterra Proterra, a leading innovator in heavyduty electric transportation, on November 13 announced Gareth Joyce as president of Proterra Powered and Energy business units.

As president of Proterra Powered and Energy, Joyce will lead Proterra’s growing business as a provider of its electric vehicle technology to commercial manufacturers and charging infrastructure

solutions for heavy-duty electric fleets. In his role, Joyce will report directly to Proterra’s Chief Executive Officer Jack Allen.

“Proterra is on the leading edge of the technologies that will address our environmental sustainability challenges and climate change by helping businesses and fleet operators electrify their commercial vehicles. I’m excited to join the Proterra team as we work to deliver even greater impact for our customers and the environment,” Joyce said.

Joyce brings 20 years of experience in the automotive and airline industries. He joins Proterra after most recently serving as Delta Air Lines’ first chief sustainability officer where he was responsible for overseeing Delta’s efforts toward becoming carbon neutral and a responsible steward of our environment. Prior to joining Delta, Joyce held a variety of senior leadership positions with Mercedes-Benz throughout South Africa, Europe and North America – having served as vice president of customer service for MercedesBenz North America and finally as the president and CEO of Mercedes-Benz Canada.

Proterra Powered leverages Proterra’s electric vehicle technology and expertise to help commercial vehicle manufacturers electrify their vehicles. Proterra battery systems are utilized by world-class OEMs to introduce 100 percent battery-electric vehicles, including electric school buses, coach buses, delivery vans and low-floor cutaway shuttle buses. To date, Proterra Powered has helped world-class OEMs like Thomas Built Bus, Van Hool, Freightliner Custom Chassis Corporation (FCCC), Bustech and Optimal-EV introduce 100 percent battery-electric vehicles that are powered by Proterra electric vehicle technology.

Proterra Energy™ fleet solutions offers a turn-key approach to delivering the complete energy ecosystem for heavy-duty electric fleets including charging infrastructure design, build, financing, operations, maintenance and energy optimization. Proterra recently unveiled its new, high-powered charging solution designed to enable the electrification of large-scale vehicle fleets. q

A Look into the Future of the Bus Industry

I

by Larry Plachno

Recent articles have suggested that bus companies should be looking to make changes to prosper in the post-pandemic era. As a result we have tried to determine what we should expect in the near future. Shown here is an MCI J4500, the most popular model coach for many years. MCI.

n recent issues of NATIONAL BUS TRADER, your editor as well as Dave Millhouser offered articles suggesting that bus operators should be making plans for the future.

As a result we have had inquiries from readers asking what will the future of the bus industry look like. What should we plan for?

We have been through this kind of thing in the past when readers have submitted questions to our “Curious Coachowner� question and answer column asking us what will happen in the future. In many, if not most, cases our crystal ball was a little cloudy and it was difficult to pin down the future. However, there has been a proliferation of predictions for the future from numerous experts, organizations and groups. Instead of chaos, our review surprisingly found that they tend to agree in many major areas. Most differences appear to be between varying industries or operations. Hence, we were able to take the basic information or predictions and generally apply them to the bus industry.

16 • National Bus Trader / January, 2021

Following is a list of some of the key points about what is expected in the future that most everyone seems to agree on. Where necessary, we have applied things to the bus industry and added some information and suggestions if appropriate. We would welcome additional comments, questions and suggestions.

Getting People Back on the Buses Somewhat obviously, our primary interest is getting people back on the buses. It appears that there are three different basic levels to be taken into consideration for today and as we move into the future.

First, the current situation. There are buses and tours operating that have taken safety precautions and comply with appropriate laws and regulations. There are numerous components and systems that can make your buses safer. The most obvious are plastic partitions for the driver and passengers. You can put UV light kits in your heating and air conditioning ducts to purify the air and reduce bacteria,

viruses and mold. You can get a pneumatic nebulizer system that can disinfect an entire bus in 30 minutes when it is empty.

Among the most interesting items is a smart camera for access control. It not only can take the temperature of boarding passengers but also verify whether they are wearing a mask or not. Requirements will vary as things develop, but many bus operators have found it possible to resume operations using some of these safety items.

We have received word that several bus companies are back to partial operation by working at it. They have used safety equipment and systems to get some of their buses back on the road again. This includes scheduled service, charters and contracts, but we hear that some tours are also back out on the road.

Second, control of COVID-19 through vaccine and improved care. Everyone sug-

gests we are making progress. In many areas, the fatality rate for COVID-19 has dropped to less than one percent. Our doctors and medical staff now have learned how to better treat individuals involved and we are seeing more and faster recoveries. As we go to press, the new vaccine is already being distributed to primary groups and medical staff.

Third, the vaccine and improved treatment will not be the end of our problems. Virtually all of the experts expect that even after the worst of the pandemic disappears, there will be a residual social distancing effect.

Many, but not all, people will continue to be afraid of close contact and will avoid public transportation as well as public places. The bus industry may find some help from government agencies willing to support buses to reduce pollution and traffic congestion. See notes below on increased auto usage.

Government Funding and Self-Reliance In spite of the fact that the travel and transportation industries have been hit very hard by the pandemic, relief funding has not come up to requested levels. A rally in Washington, D.C. as well contacting elected officials has failed to generate any real progress in this area. However, the pros suggest that instead of waiting for the government to do something, the companies that make progress on their own will come out ahead in the long run. If government support does become available, you will already be far ahead because of your own efforts.

What you need to do is to make your bus operation more profitable including taking a long and hard look at your operating strategy.

No two operations are alike, but suggestions would include running more bus tours,

Numerous bus operators have been able to resume operations by adding safety features to their coaches. These include a range of several different items and systems including partitions, UV light kits, a pneumatic nebulizer and even a device to check incoming passengers for temperature and masks. This photo came from Dale Laird in British Columbia and shows partitions installed on a bus from Cypress Coach. DALE LAIRD.

expandsion in contracts and even looking at scheduled service if it is profitable for you.

Working from Home / Contract Charters The pandemic has prompted many people to work from home. There is a warning that not all of these will return to the office once the pandemic ends. One of the long term results of COVID-19 will be an increasing number of staff working from home.

This will impact white collar workers more than the blue collar workers who are more

Concern over COVID could be as asset as well as a liability. Some major employers may become interested in transporting their staff to work on buses with special safety features. This photo shows a Loop bus that transports staff in Silicon Valley. LOOP.

likely to work in factory or industrial settings. In some areas this may be obvious on commuter trains and commuter buses.

A related item is that companies with staff that do commute may look favorably on a private bus service with special safety features rather than general public transportation.

Hence, it would not hurt to contact major employers to see if they would like to provide a safer private transportation to their staff using your buses with special features.

Business/Pleasure Travel Many of us remember the unfortunate 9/11 tragedy in 2001. Travel and transportation was disrupted to a greater or lesser extent for as much as 18 months. We should expect the same kind of thing following the pandemic and start preparing for it.

The experts tell us to anticipate the same kind of situation as happened back then.

They are expecting a drop in travel for several months following a similar pattern. This means that personal travel should come back before business travel. Not only is there some pent-up demand for personal travel, but holding a business meeting with Zoom works better than sightseeing with Zoom.

What this means from the standpoint of the bus industry is that the bus tours and casino trips will probably come back quicker than the convention shuttles.

Knowing that this will happen allows us to prepare for it in advance. This would be an excellent area for the industry suppliers and associations to get together and come up with ideas and programs to help the industry get people back on buses quicker.

Bus Trader / January, 2021• 17

Use of public transportation is expected to remain low after the pandemic crisis eases. Personal travel will be the first to return such as this bus tour group. NBT.

More Autos on the Roads This is becoming a relatively complex subject because it has several facets. Let me try to take each of them individually.

The experts are saying that as the pandemic eases, we will see an increase of autos on the road. This will probably start with increased used auto sales and then push up new auto sales. The primary reason for this is that many people will continue to adhere to social distancing which is better accomplished in their own car rather than in a commuter train or bus. This will cause two things.

One is that municipalities will have increasing problems with traffic, congestion, pollution and lack of parking. The second is that it will slow down getting people back on buses.

What can the bus industry do about this?

One of the more obvious answers is to start working with your municipal leaders and elected officials. Maybe you can get put on a transportation committee or at least be recognized as a valued transportation expert.

When the municipal leaders see the traffic, congestion, pollution and lack of parking, they will be looking for ideas and running buses is a very logical and obvious solution.

Being Productive While Traveling One of the more interesting things to come out of this is taking a look at why people drive cars and what alternatives are available – including buses. It is very obvious that more people take public transportation during peak hours than during nonpeak hours. Why? Two answers are obvious.

One is that transportation schedules are more frequent and hence more convenient during the peak periods. A second reason is that increased traffic during peak periods makes auto usage slower and less desirable.

Increasing the frequency of public transportation service during non-peak periods would help get some people out of their cars, but is this financially practical? It does not take much study to determine that com18 • National Bus Trader / January, 2021

Conventions and trade shows may take a little longer to return. Shown here is a Prevost coach at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida. NBT.

muter trains and buses cost more to run because everything is geared to two peak periods. Staggered working hours were tried in some places but they never seemed to work well.

trains. This should answer the question of whether to put Wi-FI on your buses or not.

What is interesting is that some travelers were looking for quiet or sound-insulated seats, presumably to nap or read.

Those seeking to make better use of travel time want Wi-Fi on the buses and commuter

Too Many Options This brings up the interesting question of transportation options. Some of the researchers have suggested that part of the problem of city congestion is caused by too

Can we get people out of cars and into public transportation? One study found that less than 30 percent of car users were “married” to their cars. The other 70 percent were willing to take public transportation depending on what was offered. What is interesting is the things they are looking for. Most of these people were not looking for cheaper costs or a more comfortable seat. High on their priority list is shorter travel times, being able to use travel time for something else and location.

Another factor in getting people out of cars is location. One of the reasons people drive cars to work is because they then do not have to wait for the next commuter bus or train. Others say that their car is more convenient than public transportation because the bus or rail station is not located next to their office. Public transportation can not win over riders if it does not serve their location well.

Studies have shown that there are several things that can get people out of their cars and back into buses. One of the most-mentioned is the availability of Wi-Fi so they can multi-task on their way to and from work. This explains why more and more new buses are being equipped with Wi-Fi.

Scheduled service bus lines often do better when they have anchors providing a substantial activity such as railroad stations, casinos, schools and major attractions. NBT.

many transportation options. I tend to disagree on this if only because one size does not fit all. Not everyone works next to the bus or railroad station.

At the risk of diverting slightly, I might mention that many years ago (in another life as they say) your editor worked for a while at a location northwest of Chicago’s loop and arrived in Chicago by commuter train.

Regardless of the weather, I usually walked a mile from the train station to work because there was no direct or good public transportation and any other alternative would take longer than walking. Speaking of alternate transportation, I might mention that the sightseeing boats did transport commuters from one railroad station to North Michigan Avenue – an area somewhat remote from the railroad stations that had a lot of commuters.

As a result, I might suggest that if bus companies are searching for new income opportunities, you might look for travel needs that are currently not being met. In addition to commuters, suggestions might include schools, gaming, airports, railroad stations, shopping and other places that generate traffic.

Mercedes has tested this autonomous bus on a busway in Holland.

Autonomous buses are not here but will most likely initially start first with transit service. MERCEDES.

they will increase congestion in big cities.

People who today are unable to drive will be able to use autonomous cars. They are an ideal way to transport patients to doctor and clinic visits. In addition, autonomous cars can also be easily used to transport merchandise and deliveries without need of a driver. They will take business away from bus operators while increasing congestion.

I personally dread the thought of people putting kids in autonomous cars to send them to school or visit grandma, but you know that is going to happen.

Residual Value There are several factors behind the reduced residual value in buses, but the most important is probably supply and demand.

Those of us who remember back to the fuel crisis of 1979 are probably aware of the following increase in bus residual values.

Because of fuel concerns and some lack of availability, a small percentage of auto owners parked their cars and rode public transportation. This created a substantial increase in ridership for both transit and coach operators.

New bus manufacturers could not gear up production lines fast enough. In some cases a production line slot could be sold to another bus operator at a price. Coach operators began looking on the used market for additional coaches to handle their increased ridership. For months, the price of preowned coaches went up and not down. Even the older stick-shift GM coaches found ready buyers. Whether fortunately or unfortunately, the fuel crisis was soon over before increased new coach production could ramp up significantly.

The lack of residual value in used coaches will most likely remain with us for a while. There are several reasons for this, but supply and demand are among the most important. This group of buses was photographed at the Prevost facility in Nashville. NBT.

Autonomous Cars and Buses Do not hold your breath on autonomous cars and buses. While progress has been impressive, there seems to be some difficulty in getting over that final hurdle to be practical. At this point we have seen pods and small shuttle buses in autonomous operation, but putting big autonomous buses on city streets is still some ways off. Although I will admit that I was impressed when Mercedes-Benz ran an autonomous bus on a busway from Schiphol airport in Amsterdam. When they do come, the first real autonomous buses will probably be used in shuttle and city transit service.

What about autonomous cars? One of the worries about autonomous cars is that

National Bus Trader / January, 2021 • 19

We are facing the opposite situation now. With many buses idle, there is an abundance of pre-owned coaches on the market that drives prices down. While supply and demand may be the biggest factor, there are other reasons. There has been a lack of new start-up companies that typically begin with used equipment. There is also a situation with newer technology and components making older pre-owned coaches less desirable.

The reality is that this situation is not going to change quickly. We need to make bus operations more profitable to make up for this lack of residual value. Expect that some new bus builders will either not want to take trades or will not offer much for them. You may find yourself looking for buyers for the older coaches in your fleet.

Please remember that N ATIONAL B US TRADER does offer display and classified ads for this.

The experts are predicting an increase in auto traffic in major cities as the pandemic eases. This results from ongoing emphasis on social distancing and will cause increased traffic and parking problems. Some bus operators may be able to take advantage of this problem by providing alternative service.

Moving to Megacities The last item on our list may be the furthest in the future and the least important.

Most of the research groups say that globally there is a movement of people from rural areas to bigger cities. One suggests that by 2030, more than 750 million people will live in megacities of 10 million residents or more.

The first thing to note is that this is a global trend. It is caused in large part because many undeveloped countries have little or no employment, medical care and other facilities outside of the big cities. In many if not most developed countries, there is substantial employment and medical services outside of the big cities. In fact, some companies have been moving out of the big cities and into suburban and rural areas.

In the United States, a movement into the cities from the suburbs and rural areas would be a reversal of the general trend for decades.

What was probably the major factor behind this was children and families. Even prior to World War II there was a movement of families from the cities to suburban and rural areas seeking a better location to raise children.

Will we see this trend reversed in the future? Some people suggest that with more single people and fewer children, we may well see some movement from the rural areas back into the cities. The big question is whether the cities can handle an influx of more people when they are already having problems with aging infrastructure, congestion and pollution. An even better question will be whether bus operators can take advantage of this trend if it does develop. q

On a global basis, the experts are predicting an increased movement from rural areas to big cities in the years ahead. The jury is out on how this might impact transportation in the United States. This photo shows Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty that has traditionally greeted newcomers. NBT.

20 • National Bus Trader / January, 2021

2005 MCI J4500 Detroit / Allison - 515,817 miles - $45,000 OBO • Well maintained 56-pass coach • Comfortable high-back reclining seats • Large tinted windows • Enclosed overhead interior compartments • Restroom • Power outlets and USB ports • Large underbody luggage compartments • TV Monitors/DVD/Stereo • Interior PA system • Located in St. Louis Contact Lynn at (314) 750-6172 or LSansone9@gmailcom

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I

t is hard to believe, but the American Bus Association’s Women in Buses Council is turning 10. The Women in Buses Council, a leadership group within ABA, is proud to announce and celebrate the 10-year anniversary in January 2021. Women in Buses was established in 2011 as a resource to recognize the significant role of women in the motorcoach and tour/travel industry through networking, education and mentoring programs.

ABA’s Women in Buses Celebrates 10-Year Anniversary of Council Being Part of Industry Evolution Photos courtesy of Women in Buses

Since the conception, the leadership, structure and activities of the council have been developed to meet ongoing growth and goals of women in the industry. Women in Buses has become an educational resource for ABA members and the entire industry.

WIB continues to expand its mission and presence based on industry and member requests. “WIB was created to help women in the industry connect with one another.

Today it continues to provide networking opportunities but has grown into serving as a strong voice of women in the industry that supports ABA’s legislative agenda and brings top tier education to council members and the industry at large,” said Peter Pantuso, ABA’s president and CEO. The motorcoach industry consists of several strong, female leaders who support the industry through leadership roles in their own companies. Many organizations consist of females where a spouse, partner or multigenerational family member was no longer able to run the business. Women in Buses was designed as a way for these key female representatives to connect offering networking opportunities.

The transportation and motorcoach industry has always been predominantly male-dominated, especially for motorcoach owners. With the assistance of the ABA, Women in Buses was created showcasing the variety of brilliant female leadership.

According to founding WIB Chairwoman Cam Morris “In the beginning, our focus was two-fold: 1.) making our voices heard – helping us realize that even though our thoughts and voices may have been stated differently, they were still noteworthy and very similar to what men in the industry thought and 2.) to serve as a mentoring opportunity for women in the industry.”

At the start of 2020, the Women in Buses leadership council had momentum and energy from industry supporters and members to take on new challenges, grow and create a forward-looking direction. Then the pandemic hit, wreaking havoc on so many motorcoach and tourism organizations. Just as Women in Buses prepared to launch a new campaign, the brakes were hit and WIB did not know what was next.

After a couple weeks watching our industry and lives be decimated by COVID19, WIB leaders put their heads together to determine how they could be a better 22 • National Bus Trader / January, 2021

Established in 2011, the Women in Buses Council celebrates its 10th anniversary in 2021. The council was established as a resource to recognize the significant role of women in the motorcoach and tour/travel industry throughout networking, education and mentoring programs. Elizabeth Hall, current Women in Buses chair, points to the council logo on the back of a coach at the 2020 rally in Washington, D.C.

resource for other individuals in the industry. “When the worst we could imagine happened to our businesses, the Women in Buses leadership team realized that by rallying around each other, we had created a group of strong individuals,” says Elizabeth Hall, current Women in Buses chair. “We wondered how we could do the same for the other members of WIB, along with the entire industry. How could we become a positive resource among everything that was going?”

As a result of sheer desire, support and positivity, Women in Buses launched several projects to lift up industry members, give representatives a place to share the current status of businesses and create an opportunity to lean on each other for strength and insight on rebuilding. Social media presence skyrocketed, along with a weekly Wednesday roundtable providing a variety of topics across the entire travel/tourism industry.

All activities portrayed that WIB members were not in this situation alone, despite how it felt in an office. WIB partnered with BusRIDE magazine to create an eBook focusing on the pandemic impacts specifically to females in the industry, interviewing a vari-

ety of positions including hotel/attraction representatives, tour operators, motorcoach owners, drivers and mechanics; all showcasing the vast stories of decimation of the motorcoach, travel and tourism industry.

Quarterly webinar series also continued and the WIB Leadership re-established the foundation of Women in Buses to ensure growth, opportunities and resources continue long after pandemic recovery. Women in Buses continues to be a strong voice in the industry, serving as a key representative for many individuals and a variety of organizations.

As Women in Buses continues to evolve, the council aims to provide additional positive resources to grow the success of the industry, women’s leadership and provide educational opportunities for rebuilding/growth of the industry. According to WIB Leadership member Erin Ducharme of Bloom Bus “Our council is a diverse group of strong women who empower each other.

The women before me have set the tone of who we are as council and built a solid foundation. Going forward, our focus is to continue our growth and presence.”

WIB is in the early stages of designing a driver recruitment program, aimed at gaining additional qualified and safe motorcoach drivers. Women in Buses continues to advocate for the WIB members but also plans an expansion to incorporation drivers, mechanics and other representatives through on-site opportunities during industry events like ABA’s Marketplace. WIB is hopeful this program will create additional opportunities to encourage college and high school students to look at tourism-based careers in next steps of life.

Women in Buses has been supported and amplified its footprint by having title sponsors including North Dakota and most recently MCI (Motor Coach Industries).

“MCI has long supported Women in Buses because we see so many talented leaders in the motorcoach industry,” said Brent Maitland, vice president, private sector sales and marketing for New Flyer/MCI. “MCI currently has women in leadership positions that are engaged with WIB, so the linkage is fitting. MCI feels this group has elevated what a dedicated committee can do and has certainly demonstrated industry leadership excellence through the COVID crisis.”

Taken at the ABA Marketplace in Omaha, here is the Leadership Council of Women in Buses from left to right: Kim Grzywacz, CIT Signature Transportation (past chair); Vicki Bowman; Mimi Veilhauer; Jennifer Stegman, Fullington Tours; Antoinette Gonzales, Pontarelli Companies; Elizabeth Hall, John Hall’s Alaska (current chair); Erin Ducharme, Bloom Bus; Carol Mondello and Jodi Merritt, H&L Charters.

National Bus Trader / January, 2021 • 23

24 â&#x20AC;¢ National Bus Trader / January, 2021

As the interest in following and participation opportunities continues to grow for Women in Buses members, sponsorship opportunities have been created allowing for corporation participation. Women in

Buses will also be hosting their first ever Women in Buses Day at ABA’s Marketplace 2021 in Baltimore, and looks forward to everyone’s participation.

Further details can be found at www.Buses.org/WIB or by visiting social media pages through @ABAWIB on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn. q

Cam Morris is the manager of the Oneonta Division of Hale Transportation – Hale’s Bus Garage, LLC. She was the founding chair of Women in Buses in 2011.

National Bus Trader / January, 2021 • 25

Who Knew There Would Be Math?

by Dave Millhouser Photos from NBT Collection

Shown here is an ACF-Brill similar to the one mentioned in the article. Other than the very last ones, they were powered by an underfloor Hall-Scott gasoline engine. They also had an air-operated passenger door behind the front axle, allowing a passenger seat to be placed across from the driver.

W

ho knew there would be math?

Navigating the old Brill down Route 66 from Chicago towards St. Louis, there were 11 rail crossings, and I had lost count of how many we had passed. It was night, those jewels were sneaky, and the Brillâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s brakes were reluctant. Losing count forced me to actually

26 â&#x20AC;˘ National Bus Trader / January, 2021

pay attention in order to stop without straddling the tracks.

In the good old days weak brakes and under-powered engines meant stopping required extensive planning, as did accelerating and lane changes.

One of the hallmarks of the bus business is that it requires long-term thinking.

Spotting a rail crossing just in time to be clobbered by a locomotive is a bad thing.

Coaches are expensive, so a ton of capital (or debt) is tied up in your fleet. Couple this with the fact that the used coach mar-

ket is in free-fall, and decisions made about equipment purchases are more critical than ever.

In 1980 I convinced a school bus operator to buy a coach by saying, “If it doesn’t work out, you can sell it.” It was true . . . then. Used coaches retained a huge percentage of their value. Today, not so much – for a bunch of reasons too complex to delve into here.

In practical terms this means it is important to be careful about what kind of coaches you buy, how many and how you equip them. Gone are the days when you could gobble up a few stock units to pursue an opportunity, then take a minimal loss if things did not work out and you had to unload them. A number of charter companies will likely fail in coming months, and most of them will be operators who took on too much debt in an attempt to meet peak, rather than average, demand.

In 1998 a Brooklyn operator ordered a couple of 45-foot commuter buses without a lavatory (for maximum seating). His loving salesman talked him into paying extra for lav plumbing just in case scheduled service pooped out (pun intended). It did, so he easily installed the rest of the bathroom, converted the buses to charter configuration and lived happily ever after.

Boiled down, it is important to have the right number and kind of buses, equipped in ways that allow you flexibility in serving your customers.

One example is entertainment systems.

Many folks now carry their own, in the form

Other coach operators may select a brand based on the availability of parts and support. This photo shows a portion of the big MCI parts warehouse and shipping facility in Louisville, Kentucky.

Many bus manufacturers offer overnight parts shipping from their locations.

of smartphones etc. so it might be tempting to skimp. On the other hand, some groups want a shared experience like movies or reviewing game films for athletic teams.

There is balance between saving money and losing opportunities.

ADA equipment is another example where long term thinking is key.

You get it, there are a number of options that need to be considered with the future in mind. Some will enhance the coach’s

Our author suggests that long-term thinking may make certain brands of coaches better choices.

For example, numerous coach operators decided on a brand that offers excellent support and service in their area. Shown here is the Setra service facility in Winter Garden, Florida.

residual value, but some can actually diminish it. If it does not pay for itself . . . fuggetaboutit.

Long-term thinking may make certain brands of coaches better choices. Most of the buses currently in the U.S. market are pretty darned good (and none are perfect).

Quality of service is critical. Whoever has the best support in your area may be the best bus, and some operators choose their brand based on nearby service facilities or their relationship with regional tech reps.

Post pandemic, choosing a brand may be even more critical. It is possible that at least some will scale back or leave our market.

Historically some operators “beat the system” by purchasing new makes of buses for substantially less than established builders charge. That choice is sometimes based on belief that legacy manufacturers are somehow “overcharging.” Sometimes new brands are successful, and early adopters make out well. Someone had the courage to be the first to eat a lobster.

On the other hand, many entries (or their domestic distributors) succumb to the high costs of supporting coaches in the demanding U.S. market, and retreat. Off the top of my (balding) head I can name 13 who have bailed out, leaving their U.S. products “orphaned.” Covid may expand their ranks.

Balancing cost of acquisition with longterm operating expenses and residual value is a calculation, in our business, that has to be done with the long term in mind. Who knew there would be math? q National Bus Trader / January, 2021 • 27

Safety and Liability

by Ned Einstein COVID-19, Shenanigans and Liability Part 2: Making Money by Compromising Health

Amtrak, the heavily-subsidized enemy of the motorcoach industry, is now outdoing its airline industry colleagues. As a quasigovernment monopoly, the taxpayers will effectively cover the damages if problems develop. That Amtrak may not even belong in most parts of the country is only a footnote.

This feat was accomplished by eliminating trains and reducing ticket prices.

The latest development was disclosed formidably in the October 14, 2020 issue of Mass Transit, re-characterizing a story from The Times Union in Albany, New York.

Amtrak’s activities were actually presented as great news: Mass Transit titled its article: “NY: With cutbacks, some Amtrak trains now sold out.” The fact that this feat was accomplished by eliminating trains and reducing ticket prices for those which remained is only part of the story. It was also less of the story, and even less of the truth and its implications.

The irony is that Amtrak was actually “on the verge of posting its first operating profit” just before the pandemic struck. When COVID-19 struck, boardings sank by 95 percent. It is hard to understand how “social distancing . . . also reduced the availability of seats.” Regardless, Amtrak made up for only every 20th seat being occupied by quickly filling all of them. Equally mysterious is how this nearly break-even, preCOVID-19 monopoly is also managing to ask the taxpayers “for additional support after exhausting the proceeds of an earlier stimulus package.” This statement was curiously qualified by the phrase, “so far without success.”

Expect no clues from Amtrak. According to its president, “By combining our enhanced safety efforts with the guidance of our full-time medical director and public 28 • National Bus Trader / January, 2021

health and safety teams who are working in partnership with experts from the George Washington University Milken Institute School of Public Health, we want to ensure our customers feel a renewed sense of confidence when they travel with us this holiday season." Time to excise my Master’s Degree from GWU from my resume. Otherwise, at least Amtrak did not pin its justification on medial experts. Another Amtrak spokesperson clarified the railroad’s success with a simple math-level explanation, stating that, “the reduction in frequencies likely created the sold out situation.” Well, “D’uh.” As if Amtrak was not already increasing passenger risk at a time when COVID-19 infections were spiking in nearly 40 states, a spokesperson offered that, “We are using this ridership data to determine future consist planning for the upcoming holiday periods as well as early 2021.” He further explained that the railroad is moving cautiously to conserve cash, noting that, “Adding equipment adds costs and we are conserving funds.” Well, “D’uh redux.”

The Old Airlines Snookeroo With no evidence to really deprive Amtrak of its creativity, consolidating service is an old airline trick, about which I have written before in NATIONAL BUS TRADER (see “Drivers v. Robots, Part 2: The Nature of Modern Travel,” October, 2019). Faced with three flights two-thirds full, U.S. airlines have, for decades, taken one of these three planes out of service and re-assigned its passengers to the other two flights – stranding confirmed passengers for hours or days.

When COVID-19 struck, after the airlines received their first stimulus bonanza (months before flight attendants even began wearing masks), they doubleddown on COVID-19 by, once again, eliminating flights and consolidating passengers into those flights they retained. Recently induced onto one flight by an extra charge which promised me the seat of my choice, I found out the day before that I had been assigned to one. Upon boarding, I found the entire rear of the plane packed (seat selection by robot) with the entire front of the plane empty. Threatening to ground the plane with a single phone call, I was instantly granted permission to sit up front.

On my return flight, the entire passenger compartment was packed, with few middle seats vacant.

In its efforts to possibly surpass its nearprofit status, Amtrak’s sleight-of-hand was described by noting that, “Amtrak's move this month to cut train frequencies, and costs, in the wake of the pandemic has left accommodations on some long-distance trains sold out.” “D’uh” yet again. Betting with taxpayers’ money, of course Amtrak achieved this health threat effortlessly.

Of course, Amtrak has not yet exhausted its unchecked bag of tricks: • Those passengers who toss baby carriages and bicycles in the wheelchair securement areas could pay extra for the space.

Then some of it could be used by wheelchair users induced to ride at half price by the ADA – if Amtrak complied with its regulations.

• Parents could be allowed to ride with their children on their laps, at perhaps onequarter the fares per child.

• Amtrak could install horizonal stanchions, and increase the loads, the profits and the COVID. Often trains in the Northeast corridor are packed for only short segments. (I myself have done this occasionally, without any stanchions, especially during the holiday season Amtrak appears to be coveting.)

• For its profits to really soar, Amtrak could pull out most of its branch lines in the boondocks and turn them over to motorcoaches, which would require a tiny fraction of the subsidies to operate, and greatly improve coverage. Of course, this is a naive dream in a nation whose political leaders crave a nationwide passenger rail system.

Otherwise, overstuffing the trains is already a reality, and the direction in which the railroad is clearly headed. There is no reason such a practice cannot continue or expand if and when COVID-19 ever disappears from the U.S. landscape. In the meantime, that is clearly not Amtrak’s problem or responsibility. As an interstate provider operating across the country, Amtrak is our most effective super-spreader. There should at least be some kind of prize for accelerating our much-heralded herd immunity – perhaps more stimulus money. Otherwise, as Amtrak is an intercity creature, supported and governed by national politics and regulations, no enlightened governor can stop it.

Social Distancing and Social Concern It is worth mentioning that, over the past several decades, the motorcoach industry

Safety and Liability Only seven states require seat belts on large school buses. has increased its fleet’s seating capacity by lengthening its vehicles. In fact, since November of 2016, all motorcoach seats contained three-point occupant restraint systems. In contrast, over this same period, airline capacity expanded by decreasing the spacing between seat rows. With only lapbelts, this gradual tightening decreases what is known as the “envelope of restraint” between seated passengers and the seatbacks in front of them (propelling them as far forward as the belt allows their torsos to extend before the “catch” in the belt snaps them rearward). With lapbelts only, when an airplane passenger is jettisoned forward by a gust of turbulence or a rough landing, his or her lapbelt turns the passenger’s waist into a fulcrum and accelerates the velocity of his or her head into the seatback in front.

This dynamic is the central reason why only seven states require seatbelts on large school buses (on which ejection and rebounding are rare). Like all school buses, many motorcoach seats are compartmentalized, providing protection within closely-spaced seats to those not wearing their lap-and-shoulder belts. No commercial aircraft contains such a seating system.

For decades, Amtrak services were heavily subsidized – mostly to cover the cost of sparsely used service where it did not belong. Now that Amtrak was almost breaking even before COVID-19 broke out, it is not only not making a profit because the railroad has lowered its fares substantially. One can only wonder how giving Amtrak another $2.4 billion under the Heroes Act (passed by the House on October 1, 2020) could possibly be justified. What would the railroad do with all this money? Add more trains at reduced fares to widen its spread of the pandemic? Reduce fares even further?

After two decades of trying to break through robot “Julie,” I doubt Amtrak is planning to spend this money actually helping wouldbe customers. Trains are sold out even despite Julie. Eschewing Julie’s charm, most travelers book seats online.

Safety and Liability With the notion of “herd immunity” recently bandied about before the election – eliminating the virus without any planning is not exactly panning out – it is not hard to perceive of Amtrak’s service as a component of such a strategy (if there had actually been a strategy). If there had been a strategy, its only

conceivable goal could have been to eliminate subsidies. Of course, as noted, Amtrak was “on the verge of” completely eliminating subsidies before the pandemic struck, even while lacing the most desolate parts of the country with service that cost upwards of hundreds of dollars per passenger trip.

The savings by providing the full range of trips examined by bus or coach compared to Amtrak ranged from $17.03 to $422.30 per passenger trip.

In a July 2013 study of the comparison of motorcoach trips versus Amtrak trips (Supporting Passenger Mobility and Choice by Breaking Modal Stovepipes, M.J. Bradley & Associates), 18 of 20 Amtrak lines examined revealed subsidies per passenger trip between $21.93 and $289.56. This same study found that the savings by providing the full range of trips examined by bus or coach compared to Amtrak ranged from $17.03 to $422.39 per passenger trip.

In stating such realities, I am providing plaintiffs’ attorneys representing COVID19 deaths that can be traced to the victims’ Amtrak rides with one of the greatest closing arguments of all time: It is one thing to sacrifice countless lives to create excess profits for an otherwise subsidized quasi-public agency. It is another to do so where those lives could have been preserved for a fraction of the costs, albeit with somewhat longer ride times.

Say what one might about attorneys, the sharpest and hardest working are highly motivated when they smell blood. A COVID-19 victim of Amtrak’s operations will help shape a lawsuit to resemble a small tank full of sharks not fed for weeks when suddenly one tosses in a pail of blood.

The history of public transportation in the United States has witnessed a spectrum from heroism to betrayal. Residing about 1,500 feet from the North Trade Tower on September 11, 2001, I watched NYCTA drivers drop off rescue workers hundreds of feet away from the huge dust ball that Lower Manhattan had quickly become – when the notion of wearing an N-95 mask was two decades away, and many working “on the pile” could barely breathe. In the past several months, as COVID-19 quickly killed 33,000 New York City residents and workers, scores or hundreds of these same essential workers

Residing about 1,500 feet from the North Trade Tower on September 11, 2001, I watched NYCTA drivers drop off rescue workers. died after ferrying fellow essential workers to and from their jobs throughout the NYC metropolitan area. For a perceptive glimpse, a recent study by NYU’s School of Global Health found that 24 percent of the NYCTA’s workers had contacted COVID-19, noting that 40 percent had pre-existing conditions (think: Obstructive Sleep Apnea). Understandably – perhaps to retain its work force – the NYCTA claimed that this “study” was merely a “poll,” and that only seven percent of its 50,219 employees had actually contracted COVID-19.

We are now experiencing the opposite end of the spectrum. In last month’s installment in NATIONAL BUS TRADER (“COVID19 Shenanigans and Liability, Part 1: Wheelchair and Passenger Securement” (November, 2020) and this installment, we are witnessing the worst that public transportation can be.

The opinions expressed in this article are that of the author and do not necessarily represent the opinions of National Bus Trader, Inc. or its staff and management. q Ned Einstein is the president of Transportation Alternatives (transalt.com [1]), a public transportation consulting/expert witness firm. Einstein (einstein@transalt.com) specializes in catastrophic motorcoach accidents.

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Classified Visit National Bus Trader’s Online Classified Ads at www.busmag.com Classified ad rate is $30 per issue for first 25 words, 25 cents for each additional word.

Rate includes Internet access. Name, address, zip and phone number are not included in word count. The total number of words in a classified ad can not exceed 70.

Rates apply on each ad individually – the rate for multiple insertions is the total of each ad figured individually. Free classified ads are acceptable ONLY when submitted on or with your free classified ad certificate. Display advertising rates on request.

1 – BUSES WANTED 1940s White Model 788 or 798 wanted. 12 cylinder engine mounted under floor midship. Would like a complete original bus, but like to hear about parts buses. Contact Howard Lane, Hardwick MA 01037 at (413) 477-8790 or howard.lane@comcast.net.

I Seeking 102D3 converted by Custom Coach. Prefer motor home interior with side aisle or semi-side aisle.

Please provide details by e-mail to safety@busmag.com or phone Larry at (815) 946-2341.

2 – COACHES FOR SALE Surplus coaches and school buses for sale. 1998-2008 Prevost H3-45, 2001 Prevost XLII. 2007-2011 IC, Blue Bird, Thomas school buses. Call Bob for info at (914) 804-5210 in NY. q After 27 years, 1,500 coaches sold, I am liquidating my inventory. Bring all offers. View at Bobtuckermotors.com.

Contact (870) 739-2444 in AR. q

5C – MISCELLANEOUS BUSES 1982 BBC/GMC HR150G trolley bus. Brown-Bovari controls, running condition. Must dispose due to space limitation. Make offer. Contact Dale@trams.ca or phone (604) 325-9990 in Vancouver.

I 6 – MOTOR HOMES FOR SALE 1994 Prevost Liberty conversion. 8V-92 Twin Turbo w/Eco Boost, Webasto heat. All electric. New tires, batteries (bus), bus air. Interior – teal, rose, mirrors. Excellent condition. $95,000. Phone (276) 466-7325 in VA. I 1956 Flxible coach – old conversion. Phone (802) 9482886 in VT for details.

I MCI MC5A ’67 (shell). 8V-71, 4-speed. For sale to highest bidder. Call (928) 358-6415 or (505) 713-9242 in AZ. I ’67 Flxible. Converted, 6V-92, 10-spd./OD, diesel generator. Recent $10,000 rebuilt – rebushed. Don’t see well; can’t drive and enjoy. Best offer over $17,500.

Needs TLC. Phone Chet at (269) 445-0641 in MI. I 10 – PARTS AND EQUIPMENT 6V-92T Detroit Diesel engine. Fresh overhaul. In storage. Spent $4,700. Make offer. Phone (815) 262-0587 in IL. 14 – NOTICES Visit our 35+ vintage buses at Lakewood NJ Bus Terminal Saturdays. Join Friends NJ Transport Heritage Center. www.friendsnjthc.org. Annual dues $30. Call Tom at (732) 833-1213.

I Next Deadline – February 15 for April issue

Advertiser’s Index Bus Conversion Magazine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24 Columbia Gorge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 Complete Coach Works . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 dupree . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 FMCa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 industry leading results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 irizar usa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 Midwest Bus Corporation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Motor Coach industries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 lynn sansone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 temsa Global . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 transportation trails . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24 united Motor Coach association . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 ZF . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 30 • National Bus Trader / January, 2021

15 – MISCELLANEOUS Wanted: Original upholstery for AC Transit 800-900 Series Fishbowl. Gold and blue striped pattern used on bucketstyle seats. Used seat covers acceptable. Contact Ed at enapiwoc@aol.com.

Bay area (northern California) bus slides for sale. Original and dupes. $1.50 ea. Contact kimojim123@msn.com in CA. I

Some of the advertisements have hyperlinks.

If you click on them you will surf to the Website of the advertiser.

Down The Road

Coming events of interest to readers of NatioNal Bus trader. submissions for the department should be directed to the editor. unless otherwise indicated, events are not open to the general public.

April 21-25, 2021. UMA Motorcoach Expo 2021. orange County Convention Center, orlando, Florida.

June 18-22, 2021. Busworld North America and American Bus Association Marketplace. Baltimore Convention Center, Baltimore, Maryland.

July 7-10, 2021. FMCA's 103rd International Convention and RV Expo.

Cam-Plex Multi-event Facilities, Gillette, Wyoming.

August 25-29, 2021. Flxible Bus Rally. loudonville, ohio.

August 31-September 3, 2021.

American Public Transportation Association (APTA) EXPO 2021. anaheim, California. For information visit www.aptaexpo.com.

Rolling ahead with reliable coaches, service, and support.

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