Fleet bus & coach spring2017

OFFICIAL IRISH JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL BUS/COACH AWARDS

Volume 13. No. 1. Spring 2017

Van Hool Gilt-edge precision for 70 years

TEST: Renault Master 17-seater minibus

LAUNCH PAD: Transdev & Wrightbus PROFILE: Galway Tour Co marks 1st decade INTERVIEW: Stephen Miller reflects on 25 years Plus: New Fleet, Global, Fleeting Shots & Conductors' Stand

We are now an all-Volvo fleet because we believe they are best in terms of appearance, passenger comfort, fuel consumption and emissions David Lord, Director of Robinsons Holidays

The latest delivery of four new Volvo B11R 9700 Euro 6 coaches means that Blackburn-based luxury coach hire and holiday company Robinsons Holidays now run an all-Volvo fleet of 16 vehicles.

David Lord explains; “Our previous experience of B11R 9700 coaches, which offer high quality at a competitive price, made it an easy decision to go with Volvo again. We are proud to now operate an all-Volvo fleet for the first time. Although we maintain many of our vehicles in-house, we can rely on our local dealer for aftersales back up and support when we need it.”

Volvo. Chosen by those who know.

VOLVO BUS Wedgnock Lane, Warwick CV34 5YA Tel: 01926 401777, www.volvobus.co.uk

www.fleet.ie | 3

Contents Spring 2017 4 News • FIAA Madrid 2017 hosts inaugural Minibus Award • Two-thirds commuters into Dublin not car users • Diary Dates - Exhibitions & Exhibitions • 2.3% increase in EU bus sales • Dublin’s Public Transport is expensive

Fleet Bus & Coach Magazine D’Alton Street, Claremorris, Co. Mayo, Ireland.

Tel: +353 (0)94 9372819/ 9372826 Fax: +353 (0)94 9373571 Email: enquiries@fleet.ie ISSN: 1649-9433

plus Bus Lane

Managing Editor: Jarlath Sweeney

6 Launch Pad • Harrogate goes for electric Volvo Bus • Wrights Group develops hydrogen bus

Editor: Sean Murtagh Contributors: Rob Van Dieten, Michael Corcoran, Johanna Parsons Photography: Jarlath Sweeney, Sean Murtagh, Van Hool, Michael Corcoran Administration: Denise Vahey, Paula Mullarkey Advertising: Mary Morrissey, Orla Sweeney Design: Eamon Wynne Printed in Ireland

Fleet Bus & Coach - the official Irish journal of the International Bus/Coach of the Year Awards.

8 New Fleet 171 plates on Higer, Volvo, Van Hool & Mercedes-Benz buses

14 Profile Galway Tour Company celebrates 16 Fleeting Shots From Thailand, Europe & Africa 17 Interview Q&A with Stephen Miller, Dorgan Group 18 Milestone Seven decades of Van Hool 20 Handover King Long Empress for Eamonn Rooney 22 Conductors’ Stand Reformation of Bus Éireann

P12

10 Test Renault Master minibus - new entry into market 12 Global World news from Volvo, Scania, BYD & Allison

Fleet Transport/ Fleet Car/ Green Fleet Management/ Fleet Van & Utility/ Fleet Bus & Coach/ Fleet Trailer & Body Builder/ Fleet Maritime & Caravan Cruise Ireland are published by JJDS Publications Ltd. Registered Office: D’Alton Street, Claremorris, Co. Mayo. Co. Reg. 368767 Directors: Jarlath Sweeney, Sean Murtagh.

Disclaimer: Fleet Bus & Coach Magazine management can accept no responsibility for the accuracy of contributed articles or statements appearing in this magazine and any views or opinions expressed are not necessarily those of Fleet Bus & Coach management, save where otherwise indicated. No responsibility for loss or distress occasioned to any person acting or refraining from acting as a result of the material in this publication can be accepted by the authors, contributors, Editors or publishers.

The Editor reserves the right to make publishing decisions on any advertisements or editorial article submitted to the magazine and to refuse publication or to edit any editorial material as seems appropriate to him. Professional legal advice should always be sought in relation to any specific matter.

SERVICE EXCELLENCE SINCE 1977

Specialists in Bus & Coach Insurance Embassy Of¿ce Park, Kill Village, County Kildare.

045 878500 045 876151 insure@jfd.ie

www.jfd.ie

Proud Sponsors of

J.F.Dunne Insurances Ltd is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland. J.F.Dunne Insurances Ltd is part of the J.F.Dunne Group.

The J.F.Dunne Insurances Bus & Coach Programme is offered on a tied agency basis with AIG Europe Ltd www.fleet.ie

4 | NEWS 1

FIAA Madrid 2017 moves forward

A

change to the timing of the FIAA Bus & Coach Show 2017 due to be held in Madrid, will see the event being brought forward from November to May. In an effort to increase the profi le of the bi-ennial exhibition, it is being billed as an international show this time around. The organisers, Feria International del Autobus y del Autocar (FIAA) in association with IFEMA – Feria de Madrid are confident that the change from autumn to early summer will increase the European promotion of the event.

Already the number of exhibitors have surpassed the last event which was held in 2015. Also new to the exhibition booked from 23/26 May, is the selection of the International Minibus of the Year 2017.

Organised by the FIAA in association with the International Coach/Bus of the Year jury, this is a fi rst and is already

att racting entrants ranging from integral minibus manufacturers to traditional van converters.

Judging of the contenders, including test-driving, will take place in Madrid in April with the winner being announced at the main event in May.

Two thirds of passengers into Dublin City Centre use sustainable transport modes

M

ore people are using sustainable modes of transport to travel into Dublin city centre than ever before new figures released show increased numbers in 2016, and now account for over two thirds of all journeys.

According to the Canal Cordon Report 2016 published by National Transport Authority and Dublin City Council, an average of 134,559 people travel into the city centre at peak time using bus, train, Luas, walking or cycling. Th is is up from 132,188 in 2015. By contrast, the numbers of people entering the city centre by car, is down from 67,755 in 2015 to 67,442 in 2016.

This means that the gap between people using sustainable modes and non-sustainable modes of transport continues to grow. Sustainable journeys accounted for 67% of journeys in 2016, compared to 66% in 2015. The number of sustainable journeys in 2010 was 59% and it has increased every year since.

approach of the transport operators and other public agencies, including DCC and NTA, that this shift is under way.

We have seen innovations such as Leap Card, Real Time Passenger Information, journey planner apps etc, and these, when combined with investment in transport infrastructure such as Luas Cross City, more buses for Dublin Bus and Bus Éireann, and rail projects like Phoenix Park Tunnel, make public transport an increasingly attractive alternative to the car.”

On the newly released figures, National Transport Authority Chief Executive, Anne Graham said: “What we are witnessing here, not just in 2016, but over a period of the last six years or so, is a steady shift from the car to the more sustainable alternatives like public transport, cycling and walking.

“But these things don’t happen by accident, and it is thanks to the customer-focused

“To build on this momentum, we need an ambitious investment programme around bus prioritisation measures in the Dublin area, just as we need to copperfasten investment in plans such as those for Metro North and Dart Expansion.

We also need to continue to build on the success of our cycling programmes by building more cycleways and by working with DCC and the other local authorities in the area to expand the Coke Zero Bike share scheme.”

Diary Dates – Events & Exhibitions FIAA Bus & Coach Fair , Madrid, Spain

23/26 May 2017

Coach & Bus UK 2017 , NEC, Birmingham, UK

4/5 October 2017

Busworld Europe , Kortrijk, Belgium

20/25 October 2017

Fleet Bus & Coach Awards 2018, Venue TBC

9 November 2017

FLEETBUS&COACH | Spring 2017

NEWS 11 | 5

2.3 percent rise in European Bus & Coach sales

N

ew bus and coach sales contributed to the overall increase in new commercial vehicle registrations across Europe during 2016.

Across the 27 Member States, the 11.6% upturn in the marketplace was generated mainly through sales of vans and trucks, with new buses and coaches showing 2.3% of that growth. In total, over 2.324,371 million commercial vehicles were registered in the EU last year with just over 40,000 new buses and coaches sold. During 2016, most of this increased demand came from Spain (+26.1%), Italy (+16.1%) and Germany (8.9%) while France saw

a 10.2% decline.

Noteworthy was the positive performance of the Dutch market (+14.42%).

Closer to home, the Irish market was up 15.65% with 362 new bus and coach registrations, compared to 313 units from the previous year.

BUS LANE Michael Ball 1959 - 2016

Many tributes have been paid to Michael Ball, a former Managing Director of Volvo Bus in UK & Ireland and a Vice President of Volvo Bus Corporation, who passed away after a period of illness.

Mercedes-Benz, MAN and Scania made the biggest impact in the marketplace with Iveco gaining ground. Volvo was the biggest imported brand with VanHool next in line to be newly registered buses and coaches here.

A much-liked and respected figure - not only in the Volvo organization, but throughout the bus industry around the world, Mike spent over 30 years in the business before taking early retirement in 2012.

A lifelong Preston North End supporter who’s thoughts were never far away from Deepdale, he was in later life also to be found at Franklin Gardens watching Northampton Saints.

Public Transport in Dublin the second most expensive

Mike leaves behind wife Katrina and children Carl, Hayley, Robert and India.

I

n light of ongoing happenings at Dublin Bus, the news that Dublin is the second most expensive city in the world for commuters according to the latest Price Index of Public Transportation around the World, undertaken by on-line moving platform Movinga, will not be well received. Especially if there is another attempt to increase ticket prices for the much beleagured passenger.

The 2017 Study reveals the steep price differences for city commuters worldwide. It has been well publicised that after the cost of housing, food and transport are the two most relevant expenses to take into account when relocating.

The data was taken from all official transport offices within each city, using the cost of a monthly ticket within the major travel zones to standardise the results. The findings place London, UK as the most expensive city to use public transport at £122.27 and Cairo, Egypt

as the most affordable city at £5.18 for a monthly ticket. Dublin comes in at £102.00 per month.

“The study demonstrates the significant price difference for citizens of each city. Th is research will be useful for those considering their ideal city to relocate to, either temporarily for work or on a more permanent basis. “Berlin, Paris, Frankfurt, Dublin and Amsterdam; these are all cities that may be preparing for an influx of banking industry workers due to Brexit,” stated Movinga’s Managing Director, Finn Hänsel. “Among the factors that the directors of the banks will have to take into consideration for relocating will be the cost of relocating for employees. Therefore, studies like this will be very important in years to come.”

OMNIplus expands Customer Service Team Showing EvoBus’ commitment to further developing its aftersales infrastructure in the UK and Ireland, it has added new members to its recently formed Customer Service Team.

Included in the new team comprising four highly skilled and experienced technicians and trained across all of the Mercedes-Benz bus & coach product range is Mark Ramsden, responsible for the North of England, Scotland and Ireland.

He brings a wealth of industry experience having spent a number of years working for a large coach operator.

www.fleet.ie

6 | LAUNCH PAD

First all-electric Volvo Bus sets trend in Harrogate

T

he picturesque Yorkshire spa tow n of Harrogate is the first beneficiary of the new full electric Volvo 7900E single deck bus direct from Gothenburg in Sweden.

On its arrival, news that eight new vehicles of a similar specification will be entering service in 2018 was announced, part funded by the UK G over n ment ’s L ow Emission Bus Scheme.

(L-R) Daniel Barwick, Fleet Sales Manager, Volvo Bus UK & Ireland; Ulf Magnusson, SVP Business Region Europe, Volvo Bus Corporation; Saskia Legate, Contracts & Business Solutions Manager, Volvo Bus UK & Ireland; Gordon Irvine, Engineering Director, Transdev Blazefield; Alex Hornby, CEO, Transdev Blazefield and Phil Owen, Commercial Sales Director for Volvo Bus UK & Ireland.

The £2.25 million project unveiled is integral to the vision of The Harrogate Bus Company, owned by Transdev Blazefield, to significantly reduce town centre emissions and in conjunction with Harrogate Borough Council, move towards an overall low emission strategy for the area.

When the vehicles enter service in 2018, the project will be the fi rst of its kind in the UK to introduce full electric vehicles using ‘opportunity charging’ via the European OPPCharge agreement and infrastructure. Th is system can also be used by other types of vehicles.

Opportunity charging takes place via a specialist overhead mast, which connects to the bus via a pantograph. Charging is fully automated and takes between three and six minutes to complete.

Phil Owen, Commercial Sales Director for Volvo Bus UK & Ireland, said: “The arrival of the 7900E is extremely exciting not only for Volvo Bus and Transdev Blazefield, but also for the people of this beautiful spa town of Harrogate, which is now set to lead the way with the adoption of

opportunity-charged full electric vehicles in the UK. Th is particular concept vehicle has been fully operational on Line 55 in Gothenburg since 2015, so the technology and associated infrastructure are already very well tried and tested. In addition to it being completely emission free, the bus is also extremely quiet, which will make a big difference to noise levels as well as air quality for residents and passengers alike in Harrogate town centre.”

Nick Page, Managing Director for Volvo Bus UK & Ireland, added: “Volvo Bus has been at the forefront of environmentally considerate and sustainable technology development during the last 50 years and our latest range of Electromobility vehicles are sett ing a standard in Europe not only in terms of emissions, but also for their efficiency and flexibility in operation.

Wrights Group showcases hydrogen fuel cell tech

L

ondon’s City Hall was the venue for the launch of the new Wrightbus zero-emission double deck bus.

No, not an electric or hybrid, but a new hydrogen fuel cell driveline which will become available to power both single deck and double deck buses when in production next year.

The new technology from the Ballymena company provides a zeroemission drive system which encompasses a hydrogen fuel cell and a battery pack to power the vehicle. The combination of these two technologies makes the continuous daily operation of the public transport vehicle feasible.

Offering a reliable system with no

FLEETBUS&COACH | Spring 2017

battery management system which continuously monitors and balances the stored power while the vehicle is in service.

emissions, all Wrightbus hydrogen fuel cell vehicles will feature an electric drive axle packaged to allow a full flat floor throughout the bus, a zero-emission heating/cooling system, the ability for overnight charging if the operator desires, and remote diagnostics. Key to the success of this concept are the lightweight hydrogen storage tanks, and the automatic

“Wrightbus is a company where innovation and technology is at the core of everything we do, and we have led the way in the practical development of clean vehicle technology in buses over many years. Th is vehicle joins the recently launched StreetAir EV and brings an interesting new dimension to zero-emission bus technology, offering transport operators a responsible choice to help address the world’s environmental challenges,” explained Dr. William Wright CBE, Co-Founder & Director of Wrights Group.

Text: Rob Van Dieten - rob@fleet.ie

WASHING MADE EASY

A single source for all your vehicle wash needs - 3 brush rollover bus wash

• Water recycling systems

- Single brush engine driven washer

• Nationwide rapid response service support

- High pressure cleaners

• Full range of detergents and specialised chemicals for vehicle wash

Contact Vincent Clarke • www.autowash.ie • info@autowash.ie • tel: 01 623 3631 or 087 2595519

IRELAND’S LEADING SUPPLIER OF WORKSHOP EQUIPMENT

LEADING IRISH & UK DISTRIBUTOR · Stertil Koni · VL Test Systems · Major Lift · Powervamp · Samoa · Cattini · Weber · NuAir · GTEC · Launch · Boxo Tools · Premier Pits · PCL and many more..

(028) 71312225 | (01) 5060572 www.swsni.com

8 | NEW FLEET

Hynan hits the road with new Higer Super 9

A

new addition to the Mike Hynan Coaches varied fleet has arrived. From its Cappamore, County Limerick base, the new Higer 9 midi-coach has entered service for the mid-west family run company, established almost 20 years’ ago.

Imported and distributed from China by the Harris Group (Dublin) for the Irish and UK markets, the Super 9 is a 9.3m 37 seater with Cummins power.

out 300hp, mated to a six-speed Allison automatic gearbox with a five-stage column-engaged engine brake (intarder).

Front air-suspension is standard.

Here, the latter’s 6-cylinder ISB 6.7 litre diesel, built in Darlington, England pushes

Among the many passenger comforts on board, WiFi has been included. Higer is a big name in the Asian bus and coach business and its main European link to date is with Scania, which markets its larger Touring coach.

Maybury’s Coaches returns to Volvo for B8R SC5

O

n acquiring a new Volvo B8R Euro 6 chassis with 41-seat Sunsundegui SC5 bodywork Martin Maybury, Owner & Director at West Cork Coach Hire Ltd trading as Maybury’s Coaches, explained: “We have gone back to Volvo for the fi rst time in 10 years to meet the needs of our increasing fleet.”

“We were impressed with the quality and styling of this model following a factory visit to Sweden earlier this year. We feel

reliable, with a strong kerb appeal and a slightly shorter than average wheelbase, which makes it easier to navigate on Irish country roads. The local Volvo dealership, McCarthys Cork, provides excellent aftersales support, and throughout the purchasing process we dealt with Dave Porter at Volvo Bus who was extremely supportive and knowledgeable.” the size and specification of the vehicle meets the needs of our business right now.

We have found the Volvo B8R SC5 to be

West Cork Coach Hire Ltd is a family owned and run company which has been in operation for more than 30 years.

Cronins continue to value Van Hool

M

arking its fourth decade in business, Cronins Coaches continues to expand its luxury touring fleet by adding more new passenger vehicles for 2017.

“Following on the success of the seven Van Hool EX 16H coaches added in 2016, a further two will be added this year, one of which is already on the road. Th is coach was at the Coach and Bus Show at the RDS last year,” explained Niall Cronin, Cronins Coaches.

“There will also be three Van Hool TX15 Alicron coaches and a pair of TX16 Alicron coaches coming soon to add

FLEETBUS&COACH | Spring 2017

to the five TX15 Alicrons and a TX11 10.2m Alicron registered last year. Th is indicates the true value Cronins put on the Van Hool range of coaches, which celebrates its 70th anniversary this year,” added Niall.

Cronins Coaches will have in excess of thirty Van Hool coaches in service this year. Another new product from

the Belgian brand will soon arrive to Cronins' Cork HQ , the 2-axle version of the EX touring coach, called the EX 15H. Currently there are six units on order.

Dermot Cronin Motors, sister company of Cronins Coaches, has put in an order for MY2017 coaches as have Callinan Coaches, Irish Day Tours, Slevins of Mullingar, and Fitzpatricks of Monaghan.

V-Class on the double marks new Morans Red Cow Hotel One of the best located hotels in Dublin just off the M50 and N7, the Red Cow Moran 4-star Hotel is accessible from all parts of the country. Parked outside the new 7-storey extension, are two new Mercedes-Benz V-Class V220D Avantgarde with 7-speed 7G-Tronic Plus transmission. This pair of high-spec luxury people carriers are powered by a 2.1 litre 120kW/163bhp 4-in-line diesel and feature Agility Control Suspension, Cross Wind Assist and Hill Start.

Supplied by Mercedes-Benz Ireland they will provide a high class shuttle service for hotel residence.

Text: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie

Brian Noone Ltd. Straffhan Road, Maynooth, Co. Kildare Email: sales@noone.ie Call: +353 (0)1 628 6311 Visit: www.noone.ie

KEOGHS GARAGE • Passenger + Commercial Tail Lift Solutions • Servicing and repairs to all makes and models of passenger + commercial lifts • Loler Certi¿cation

www.fleet.ie

MANAGEMENT

• Weight testing • New + used lifts supplied and ¿tted.

• Parts for all makes and models stocked, Ratcliff, Ricon, Braun, Zepro, Dhollandia, MBB. • Floor tracking supplied and ¿tted

Green Fleet Management with Natural Gas Power Conference Date: Tuesday 9 May 2017 Venue: Citywest Hotel, Dublin Email: events@fleet.ie to book your place or Phone: +353 94 9372819.

Contact: Tel: 056 7769550 Mobile: 086 2521898 Tullaroan, Co.Kilkenny

24

HR

SUPPORT NATIONWIDE

The merits of Natural Gas as a cleaner and viable alternative to power commercial vehicles will be explored and discovered at this half day Conference. in association with

10 | TEST

Renault Master Bus (17 seats) 145 dCi

drive is assured and noise from under the bonnet is not obtrusive. All-round visibility is enhanced by the glazed panelling and large exterior mirrors.

As this vehicle goes beyond the 3.5 tonne weight limit, a tachogram is fitted, meaning that the driver must use their Drivers’ Card at all times.

Spec Check

R

enault is the latest light c om me rc i a l ve h ic le manufacturer to offer a factory (purpose) built passenger carrier. For the Irish market, the Master minibus will be sold through Renault Ireland which distributes cars and vans nationwide, and also through the Renault Trucks network through importers Setanta Vehicle Sales (Dublin).

The current award winning Master van which received a facelift and drivetrain upgrades in-line with Euro 6 emission control legislation introduced last September, has been enhanced further to accommodate passengers. Obviously, the front section is as per the van version with the dash, seating (driver + 2 person bench), mirrors etc, remaining the same. From the B-Pillar onwards, it’s all change. The rear compartment sees the seat configuration divided with 4 seats in a parallel line alongside the side (window) panel on the kerb side with two staggered layers of 5 seats behind the driver, making up 14 seats in all, with full seatbelts. These seats are slightly elevated to provide passengers with a better view of the outside world.

Access is through the wide sliding side door (with electric operating side step) and through the double rear doors, which

FLEETBUS&COACH | Spring 2017

open out to 180o. Reflective strips and grab handles, help for safer access.

Storage areas include an overhead shelf plus a larger compartment in the front section of the roof panel over the driver/ front passengers. Items such as ventilation, lighting and audio quality, are well catered for, adding to passenger comfort.

For the Irish market initially, there are three versions available. Two are the 3.9 tonne GVW 3T9 Bus 17 145 EVI FWD, featuring 17-seats, with front-wheel-drive and powered by a Euro 6 145 bhp twinturbo diesel, with two trim levels offered.

The other type is a 3.0 tonne GVW Bus 09 FWD 110 E6 which is the 9-seater with a 110 bhp (single turbo) power option on the same 2.3 litre 4-cylinder in-line common-rail high pressure injection Euro 6 with SCR technology.

Make/Model

Renault Master 3T9 Bus 17 (H2)

Engine

2 . 3 l itre dCi 4-cylinder Euro 6 (SCR)

Power

145 hp/107 kW @ 3,500 rpm

Torque

360 Nm from 1,500 to 2,500 rpm

Transmission

6-speed manual

GVW

3.9 tonnes

Seating Capacity

17=14 passengers/2 guides/1 driver

Dimensions

W heelbase: 4,332 mm L: 6,198m H: 2,488 mm W: 1,750mm

Suspension

Leaf s p r i n g s/ MacPherson struts

Wheels/Tyres

J 6.5 wheel rims/225/65 RI6

Brakes

Discs all round/ ABS/ESP/ASR/ Hill-start Assist

Fuel Tanks

Diesel: 80 litres/ AdBlue: 22 litres

Other Equipment

ECO driving mode/ Stop & Start system, Lane Depa r t ure warning system

Price

€41,000 incl. vat

Warranty

3 years/160,000km

Coupled to a 6-speed manual gearbox, this drivetrain has been well received by Renault Master van operators. It has ample power with the 145 bhp output peaking at 3,500 rpm, aided by the 360 Nm of torque on hand. On top of that, its fuel economy has been highly praised. Fitt ings such as Eco driving mode and Stop & Start systems helps in this regard.

From the operator’s point of view, everything is straightforward. A smooth Text & Photos: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie

MARTIN’S COACHES (Cavan) Ltd Corratillion, Corlough, Belturbet, Co Cavan Tel: 049 95 26222 / 086 8408047 Fax: 049 95 23116 Email: martinscoaches@gmail.com

Dermot Cronin Motors Ltd Shannon Buildings, Mallow Rd, Cork City.

Sole distributor for VANHOOL TX & EX Integral coaches for Ireland VANHOOL Sales, Service & Parts CVRT Test Centre

BARACK OBAMA +6/$5*0/ r . r .0/&:("--

-*.&3*$, 3% r ."--08

-*.&3*$, 3% r 5*11&3"3: 508/

#&45 $6450.&3 4&37*$& "8"3% 2015

By Ireland’s Forecourt & Convenience Retailer

+6/$5*0/ r . r ,*-56--"()

#&45 /&8$0.&3 "8"3% 2015

By Ireland’s Forecourt & Convenience Retailer

5IF 1MB[B T QSPWJEF NPUPSJTUT XJUI IJHI TUBOEBSE TFSWJDF TUBUJPO GBDJMJUJFT BMPOH XJUI B GPPE DPVSU DPOWFOJFODF TIPQ GVFM GBDJMJUJFT GSFF CSPBECBOE DPOOFDUJWJUZ 8JUI BNQMF QBSLJOH BU FBDI TJUF PVS 1MB[B T QSPWJEF B DPOWFOJFOU BOE GSJFOEMZ TUPQ PO *SFMBOE T NBJO SPVUFT BOE NPUPSXBZT Meeting Rooms & Visitor Centre are also available in The Barack Obama Plaza.

WI-FI

ATM

ACCESSIBLE

CALL & COLLECT

TOILETS

PETROL / DIESEL

CAR WASH

SEATING

FOOD COURT

Tel: + 353 21 4309090 / 4309216 Email: info@dcroninmotors.com www.dcroninmotors.com

12 | GLOBAL

3000 unit milestone for Volvo’s hybrid buses

V

olvo’s global drive with electrified buses continues to deliver results. In total, Volvo Buses has sold 3000 hybrids, electric hybrids and electric buses to customers in 22 countries in Europe, South America, Asia and Australia.

Following the introduction of Volvo Buses’ fi rst hybrid buses in 2010, sales have increased steadily at the same time as the product range has undergone continuous development and expansion.

Today, Volvo offers comprehensive system solutions for electrified public transport with hybrid buses, electric hybrids, and all-electric buses. The hybrid models are available in conventional 12-metre configuration, as articulated models, and as double-deckers.

During 2016, Volvo sold 533 electrified buses, encompassing hybrids, electric hybrids and all-electric buses.

The largest single market for Volvo’s hybrid buses thus far is the UK, which accounts for almost half (1,425) of the total of 3000 sales. Other major markets are Colombia (468), Sweden (196), Spain (137), Germany (135), Switzerland (129) and Norway (109).

Over the past two years, demand for Volvo hybrid buses has also increased in eastern Europe, with a healthy sales trend in Estonia (44) and Poland (48). Last month Volvo Buses received an order for 90 electric buses from from TEC Group in Belgium, covering 55 units for Charleroi and another 35 buses for Namur.

• The hybrid buses are powered by electricity when moving off and when standing still at bus stops, otherwise they are propelled by their diesel engines. They are equipped with batteries, an electric

motor and a small diesel engine. The batteries are charged during engine braking and the bus requires no external recharging infrastructure. They are up to 39 percent more energy-efficient than a corresponding diesel bus.

• The electric hybrids are propelled by electricity for most of their route. They are equipped with batteries, an electric motor and a small diesel engine. The batteries are charged both during engine braking and through fast-acting Opportunity Charging at either end of the bus route. These are up to 60 percent more energy-efficient than a corresponding diesel bus.

• The electric buses are powered entirely by electricity. These buses feature a powerful battery pack and an electric motor. The batteries are charged during engine braking and through fastacting Opportunity Charging at either end of the bus route. All electric buses are up to 80 percent more energy-efficient than a corresponding diesel bus.

Scania starts trials of battery electric buses

S

cania will start its fi rst field tests of forthcoming battery electric buses in the northern Swedish city of Östersund. Th ree Scania Citywide LF buses will be in operation from the end of 2017 with an additional three buses added in early 2019. “Östersund, with its seasonal climate of cold winters and moderately warm summers, is the ideal location for testing performance in actual operations,” said Anna Carmo e Silva, Head of Scania Buses & Coaches.

“The trials constitute the initial stage in the ongoing development of battery electric buses. Scania currently offers the widest range of buses and coaches for alternative fuels, including biogas, bioethanol, biodiesel and hybrid electric buses. By adding battery electric buses, we will further strengthen our focus on sustainable transport and complement this broad range with buses, particularly for inner-city operations,” she added.

Two new charging stations will be built in Östersund to supply the six buses at both ends of the 14-kilometre major bus line.

With 10-minute charging, buses will run every 15 minutes for a total of 100 journeys each day.

FLEETBUS&COACH | Spring 2017

“The introduction of battery electric buses here is really exciting,” enthused Project Manager, Anne Sörensson, City of Östersund.

“They will contribute to our aim of achieving fossil-free transport by 2030.”

The trials will be carried out in collaboration with public authorities, including the City of Östersund and Region Jämtland Härjedalen’s Public Transport Authority, and the publically owned energy supplier Jämtkraft . The buses will be operated

by Nettbuss, a subsidiary of the Norwegian State Railways, NSB, which is the second largest bus operator in the Nordic countries.

GLOBAL | 13

BYD secures extra orders from Sydney Airport

A

ustralian airport ground t ra nspor tat ion prov ider Carbridge has placed orders for 40 more pure electric buses from BYD. The contract with the Chinese battery and electric vehicle manufacturer was signed at the end of January, three months after the fi rst BYD Electric Blu bus made its commercial debut at Sydney Airport.

“We are the fi rst Chinese company to crack Australia’s electric bus market, having come a long way since the trial of our electric buses at the country’s busiest airport in Sydney in late 2014,” said Liu Xueliang, General Manager of BYD’s Asia Pacific Auto Sales Division. “Th is additional order from a large transport provider like Carbridge is testimony to our quality service and

state of the art technology – and was a very nice present just before the Lunar New Year.”

The Electric Blu bus has a carrying capacity of 70 passengers; features purpose-designed luggage storage racks and has a range of 400km on a single charge. The fleet of six currently in operation at Sydney Airport is also estimated to lower carbon emissions by 160 tons a year, and reduce waste fluids and noise levels.

Volare exports Allison-equipped school buses to Dubai

L

eading Brazilian manufacturer of small buses, Volare, recently sold 35 of its Volver Access school buses to Dubai Taxi Company’s School Bus Division in the United Arab Emirates. The exported model is the manufacturer’s fi rst rear engine minibus featuring a low floor, full-air suspension and an Allison 2000 Series transmission.

experienced drivers benefit from more precise, safer handling and improved comfort.

“Our clients demand more technology, comfort, safety and fuel efficiency and our partnership with Allison allows for state-of-art automatic transmission technology that reduces fuel consumption and increases drivability,” explained Rodrigo Bisi, Strategy Coordinator for Volare.

Meanwhile, the new Optare Metrocity xFE midi-bus has been added to the list of Low Emission Bus (LEB) accredited vehicles in the UK. Propelled by a Mercedes-Benz 5.1-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine and Allison’s latest T3270R xFE transmission, the bus delivers significant reductions in fuel consumption and tailpipe emissions.

Allison transmissions use a torque converter to smoothly multiply engine torque and deliver more power to the wheels. By multiplying the engine power, drivers get increased performance, faster acceleration and greater operational flexibility. An Allison transmission increases power while a manual or automated manual transmission (AMT) loses power with every shift .

Furthermore, once behind the wheel of an Allison-equipped vehicle, drivers are more alert and in tune with the vehicle, leading to increased driver retention and better safety records. Even

The minibuses with Allison transmissions are already used in Latin America countries as bus rapid transit (BRT) system feeders. They typically operate in areas where road infrastructure fails to offer good traffic conditions for conventional buses.

“Optare continually strives to offer buses that not only improve air quality in our towns and cities but also offer operators the lowest whole life costs,” said Robert Drewery, Commercial Director for Optare. “The Metrocity has been extremely well received since its launch in 2012 and has been praised by our customers for its fuel efficiency.”

The Metrocity xFE model, which debuted in November, presents bus operators with a more affordable way of achieving LEB certification than investing in new engine-power technologies such as electricity, hydrogen fuel cells, or biomethane.

Optare Metrocity xFE midi-bus Text: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie

www.fleet.ie

14 | PROFILE

Galway Tour Company marks

Ray Murray, Managing Director Galway Tour Company and Paul O'Ceallaigh, Truck and Coach Sales Manager Irish Commercials West

G

iving up steady jobs to create your own company is always a risk. In 2007, just at the start of the recession, it was a very brave move indeed. But that’s exactly what Ray Murray and Declan Somers did, with help from Ray’s father Des, establishing the Galway Tour Company with a focus on the personal touch and the importance on fun for staff and customers alike.

Year-round the firm organises five tours per day, two from Dublin to the West, one to Connemara and two to the Cliffs of Moher from Galway. By April they have multiple departures on these routes, as well as trips to the Aran Islands via Doolin which includes a cruise along the bottom of The Cliffs of Moher, shutt le services, fully guided private tours, and whistle-stop tours.

“On a quiet day in the summer we will have eight or nine coaches on tour,” said Paul Norton, who joined the fi rm six years ago as one of the Directors, along with Managing Director Ray Murray and Director Yvonne O’Carroll who also acts as Operations and Financial Manager. “On busy days, we hire in from other operators and we might run as many as 20 coaches a day to cover tours, private hires and school services. So, a lot of logistics.”

He gives due credit for the organisation of all of this to fellow Director Yvonne and Tetyana Ignatenko who, he stated, are the masterminds of the day-to-day operation and of crucial importance to the success of the business.

But things weren’t always so rosy. Although all the founders had plenty of experience in bus tours, the fi rst few years were particularly challenging because, as well as the recession, the regional tour industry was very tight with well-established competitors. So, winning new business was a tough call and came down to a long-term strategy to gain the trust of the market.

“It was a big risk,” explained Paul. “Everyone involved in the FLEETBUS&COACH | Spring 2017

conception gave up full time employment to do this, but they had a passion and a vision. They wanted to create somewhere they could work, and enjoy it.”

They started with two small coaches, taking bookings over a mobile phone with just a few passengers on each tour. But the ethos of the fi rm has been winning fans and repeat custom ever since. Making sure the staff are having fun is still an important part of their offering. “Th rough their enjoyment, the people who travel with them enjoy the day vicariously... It’s an att itude we still have in the business, and if your drivers are having fun everybody enjoys it with them.”

In 2011 the fi rm expanded into Dublin with The Dublin Tour Company, offering the best of the West of Ireland from Dublin in a day. Following from this successful expansion The Aran Tour Company was formed two years ago with Bill O’Brien and O’Brienline ferries.

They pride themselves on their customer satisfaction, and Paul refers to their Trip Advisor reviews as a great source of feedback, allowing them to see that it’s the relationship with the drivers and the entertainment offered that tourists remember. And happy

PROFILE | 15

10th birthday with new Volvo customers mean a happy bank balance. Galway Tour Company has seen year-on-year growth of up to 20 percent over the last five years, and its fleet has grown to 12 coaches and 2 limousine cars including their most recent acquisition - a brand new 53 seater Volvo B11R. The 171 plate Volvo with bodywork by Jonckheere, is highly specified and includes a toilet, lane departure protection with distance monitoring, and automatic emergency braking system.

It also comes fitted with a Shure headset to allow drivers free movement while using the mic, and a full HD recording camera system with night vision reversing camera. The forward-facing camera feed is displayed on both monitors through the coach which means passengers can see where they are going, which seems to reduce travel sickness.

The shiny new Volvo is an asset that they’re very proud of as it signifies the progression of the business. “We started off with old machinery, that’s all we could afford. Up until three or four years ago the newest thing we could buy was nigh on ten years old.”

“We started off with a SC Vision, registration 97 LK 99, a 29 seater,” he said. “Only 33 were ever made - for good reason.. but they did serve us well. From there we bought an old MercedesBenz Vario 24 seater and another SC Vision.” They did then buy one new coach, a 35 seater Mercedes-Benz Cimo, but that experiment was a financial challenge, and they were not tempted to buy new again for many years. Other experiments included two 35 seaters from Turkish fi rm BMC. For a long time, the priority for the fleet investment was stringent maintenance. “What we’ve done is maintain everything we have to within an inch of our lives!”

Paul said that the strategy was to focus on offering a unique customer experience, primarily with the personality of the drivers themselves, but also with attention to the standards of the vehicles. He reckons they were one of the fi rst day tour fi rms to install toilets which were working and available to passengers.

“It meant they could relax literally and metaphorically, and enjoy their whole day. It meant we were gett ing less value per bus, but the customer, most importantly, was gett ing more value.”

With trade booming they are now investing heavily in replenishing the fleet. “We’ve just reached the point over the last couple of years where we’ve started replace the old stock with brand new

Text: Johanna Parsons - contributor@fleet.ie

buses, which is something we’ve never been able to do before...

It’s taken a lot of time. But we’re in a position where the plan is that in four years’ time, the oldest bus in the fleet will be four years old.”

Paul added that they are planning to step away from their reliance on Mercedes-Benz, investing in more Volvos which Paul can’t praise highly enough due to their close relationship with Irish Commercials over the last few years, and the MAN Neoplans which have provided exceptional service to them.

Mathematically minded readers may have noted that it has been ten years since the formation of Galway Tour Company in 2007.

With 100,000 customers last year, it’s safe to say this start-up business has weathered a particularly tough infancy, and fought its way through the recession to achieve a gratifying success in its tenth anniversary year.

“We started with buses that cost €20,000 and still broke our hearts, and now we’ve got the top of the range Volvos,” says Paul. “It’s a good place to be.”

The fleet today includes: 03 Mercedes-Benz Touro, 53 seats Th ree 05 Mercedes-Benz Setras, all with 51 seats 07 Mercedes-Benz Setra, 51 seats 08 Mercedes-Benz Touring, 35 seats 08 VDL Divo, 55 seats 11 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, 11 seats Two 132 MAN Neoplans both with 61 seats 161 Mercedes-Benz Touring, 41 seats 171 Volvo Jonckheere, 53 seats

www.fleet.ie

16 | FLEETING SHOTS

Scania adds substance to Thai ‘bling-bus’!

I

n Thailand, having fun is part of life. To cater for the more mobile revellers, a growing number of ‘shing-shub tours’ – party and karaoke buses – are plying the Thai roads.

Now Scania Bus brings more efficiency, reliability and safety into these rolling nightclubs.

Based in Saraburi, 250-kilometres northeast of Bangkok, Prasert Kungnern’s special ‘bling’ buses feature large leather sofas, ear-drum bursting sound systems, spectacular lighting, LCD TVs, bars, bathrooms and much more. These rolling nightclubs can be connected with each other to allow up

sound and lighting systems costing more than one million baht (equivalent to €20,000),” said Prasert.

to 500 guests to simultaneously enjoy the same show, while being on the move in an eye-and ear-catching convoy of up to 10 buses.

“The buses from Scania are easy to service and maintain, and the fuel efficiency is excellent, which of course appeals to me. We save money by driving Scania and the total cost for our operations are better. I trust these buses can be used for a much longer time than the other brands also used in the party bus industry.

So, it´s worth the investment for me,” Mr. Kungnern concluded.

“Some of these buses are equipped with

TUI’s global bus fleet gets new look

H

oliday tour specialist T U I Group is about to undergo an extensive rebranding of its vehicle f leet. The 1000-strong f leet, serving TUI’s destinations around the globe, transported more than 11 million guests in the 2015/16 season.

“To be precise, there were 11.6 million guests who were picked up from the airport by our buses, minibuses and private limousines and taken to their holiday hotels,” explained David Schelp, Managing Director, TUI Destination Services. “Around 240 vehicles at popular holiday destinations have already received their new look,” he added, about

providing the vehicles with a distinctive and modern look that reflect the recent modernisation of the TUI brand.

As part of TUI’s international “oneBrand” campaign, the repainting of the bus fleet has already been initiated in Spain, Turkey, the Cape Verde Islands, Cyprus, the Dominican Republic and the Greek island of Kos.

In Spain alone, 144 buses have already been provided with the new look. The paintwork is based on the colours of the travel company’s airlines. Like the TUI aircraft, the newly-painted buses will be designed in white, light blue and dark blue waves with the brand name TUI in large red letters. “Each bus will require 20 litres of paint and the work will take 80 hours,” reported Jose Luis Lombardi, Transport Manager Balearics.

In Majorca, seven buses have received a special branding. They are also painted in red, purple and yellow, and stand for the seven different hotel brands and concepts of the group: TUI Blue, Robinson, TUI Magic Life, RIU, TUI Sensimar, TUI Sensatori and TUI Family Life.

MAN buses score Africa Cup of Nations

S

ixteen MAN Lion’s Coaches were used as official team buses at the recently concluded 2017 Africa Cup of Nations in Gabon.

The African organisation staging the event, the Confédération Africaine de Football (CAF), ordered 16 x 12m MAN Lion’s Coaches to chauffeur the various team players between the stadia and their team accommodation. “Th is unique order came about as a result of the close and productive cooperation between the FLEETBUS&COACH | Spring 2017

Head of Bus Sales at the Centre.

MAN importer in Gabon, SODIM TP, and the MAN Centre Importer NWC Africa,” explained Burak Keskinkilic,

The award-winning luxury MAN Lion’s Coaches are powered by 400 hp (294 kW) diesel engines, which meet the Euro 4 emission standard, mated to a TipMatic automated gearbox. To ensure the drivers were ideally prepared for their work at the Africa Cup of Nations, they were given five days of training on the Libreville ring road by MAN ProfiDrive trainers covering safety, fuel economy, guidelines and new vehicle technologies.

Text: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie

INTERVIEW | 17

Q&A with Stephen Millar, M.D., Dorgan Group

by Jarlath Sweeney

S

tephen Millar, Managing Director of the Dorgan Group, recently celebrated twenty five years involvement in the Irish coach and bus industry.

In this interview Stephen provides an insight to the sector from an operational point of view and records how his career has progressed over the years. He begins with information on the Dorgan Group.

“Dorgan’s main business involves owner operated residential and commercial properties as well as a large number of private car park spaces in Dublin and Belfast. We are a leading family run coach operator providing quality service for over 55 years. Located at our headquarters in Dublin is Dublin Mini Coaches & Chauffeur Drive, together with a cross-Border operation based at Comber, Northern Ireland. Our quality service is maintained with a modern fleet of vehicles operating from these two depots in Dublin and Comber backed by fi ft y experienced staff dedicated to the safety and comfort of our customers. We offer a range of transport solutions including corporate, private coach hire, contract services, schools and colleges, plus a commuter service. Dorgan’s is a member of recognised industry bodies and associations including The Coach Transport & Tourism Council (CTTC), and the Federation of Transport Operators.

Stephen began his trade at an early age, mixing business with competitive sport, which set him on the right path.

“I started as a Trainee Manager in our family business after concluding Tourism Studies and a six-month internship with Eirebus in 1991. Soon after, I became the Operations Manager and partner in the business. Then in 1998 after the death of the company founder, I became Managing Director. As my late Grandmother always said: “No job was easy”, and indeed, the coach business is not easy, but when it’s in your blood, you just get on with it. I believe if you work hard and respect everyone around you, success will follow. I also believe in a steady work-life balance and as a former international water polo player and long distance swimmer, I understand how important health and exercise is to overall wellbeing.”

On the trails and tribulations in the trade, Stephen said: “The coach and bus business was very successful for us as a family run operation up until 2008, just before the big recession, as coach prices dropped significantly over the couple of years that followed. Many players in the industry did not survive, but thankfully, this time we pulled through in the end. Coach and bus operators are the end link of the chain in the coach tourism industry, with the large tour operators dominating what happens in the trade.”

In recent years the company has evolved, as Stephen explained: “In 2015, the Group came up with a five-year Strategic Plan, as the coach and bus element was the weakest part of the family business. Over the last two years we have broken into

direct tourism with the launch of two themed tours - one entitled ‘1916 Rise of the Rebels Bus Tour’. It will be joined this month by ‘The Perseverance, Fleeing the Famine Bus Tour’, through our sister company Hidden Dublin Walks. We are also planning to launch other tours in 2017 and all these special tours feature professional actors.”

Taking a stance on the sector looking forward, Stephen is of the opinion: “I believe the industry needs more education and investment from Government, we need more transport related subjects at second and third level colleges. Also, I believe that some parts of the current transport laws need to be changed or abolished. The LPSV (Large Public Service Vehicle) licence is completely unfair to the private industry as all the State’s fleets don’t have to do this. What is worth noting is that the Swilly Group’s training programme is starting to work as it brings more professional drivers into our industry.”

Finally, in reaching this significant milestone, Stephen acknowledged the contribution of some leading players in the industry that helped him along the way. “During my time at the head of the Group, I would like to thank some people that I have admired and also people who have made a significant contribution to the Irish coach and bus industry over the years, namely Des Chambers, formerly of Chambers Coaches, Feargal Barton of Barton Transport, Dermot Cronin of Cronins Coaches, Cora Collins; Collins Coaches, Jerry Kiersey of Green Tiger Express and John & Carlos Dunne of JF Dunne Insurance Ltd.”

www.fleet.ie

18 | MILESTONE

Van Hool 1947-2017: From diamond cutt

Van Hool Sabena Airlines, Belgium

L

ike any true thoroughbred bloodline, the Van Hool range of buses, coaches and trailers continues to improve on its pedigree. But did you know that the Belgian company established by Bernard Van Hool first began business by cutting diamonds?

When World War II broke out, Mr. Van Hool had to diversify. He started buying up used trucks, repairing them and entered road haulage followed by establishing a construction fi rm which led to sett ing up another venture – bus building. Th is happened purely by accident. Bernard was looking for a vehicle to transport his workers to sites and came across an old bus that was in a bad state of repair. He set about building a new body on the frame, and the rest as they say, is history!

The haulage company soon became a coach tour operation run by Bernard’s brother Jozef. “De Trekvogel” (Bird of Passage) was the name of the first rebuilt coach with the first of the self-designed coaches making

De Trekvogel FLEETBUS&COACH | Spring 2017

the big breakthrough at the Brussels Industrial Vehicles & Bus Expo in 1948.

While the initial units were practically bespoke builds, soon came a generic line on a dedicated production system and within a few years, exports to a number of African countries commenced. Expansion into European markets followed. By 1955, a new factory was up and running, built across the road from the original site at Lier (Koningshooikt). The next year saw the 1,000th Van Hool coach body and 500th coach rolling off the production line.

Van Hool evolved from a coachbuilder to manufacturers of integral buses and coaches. A series of joint ventures were signed, kicking-off with a commercial agreement with FIAT. From 1957 to 1961 the Van Hool-FIAT partnership progressed, marked with 500 units delivered. Th is led to Van Hool distributing FIAT trucks in Belgium and Luxembourg. A major fi re in one section of the plant slowed down production and Bernard looked to diversifying again by manufacturing

trailers. 1966 recorded the 2,000th Van Hool integral and later that year the American market opened up with General Motors. For the next ten years as investment in buildings, machinery and equipment rose, annual production reached 1,000 coaches and buses and 1,200 trailers. Alliances with Volvo and Scania brought further success in the Scandinavian markets. Further expansion and collaborations continued with the formation of Van Hool Espana and a six-year sojourn into the Irish and British markets through Van Hool-McArdle.

Van Hool was initially invited by CIE to build buses in Ireland on Leyland chassis at its bus factory which employed 300 staff, which CIE would deliver. At that time, the linked British and Irish pounds had been devalued so much that exports from Belgium to the United Kingdom and Ireland were unviable. In 1972 the Van Hool-McArdle company was founded, with an exclusive construction contract for all CIE buses. Touring coaches would also

CIE Leyland Royal Tiger Van Hool Coach VH12 (1970)

MILESTONE | 19

tting to precision vehicle manufacturing be another success at home and abroad as did the low floor commuter bus concept.

A year later, Van Hool introduced its very first tank container.

Bernard Van Hool

be built for the Irish and British markets.

In 1978, the Van Hool-McArdle activities were terminated.

At a time when further expansion plans for its facility were on the table, Bernard Van Hool died suddenly in 1974. The new factory for trailers opened later that year but 24 months later the company was in crisis due to an economic downturn with bus production having slumped.

New horizons emerged by investing and developing individual engineering projects in the field of water purification and fi lter units. Towards the end of that decade the T8, an integral luxury coach with Alizée styling was launched and well received.

The Acron followed and soon became the most successful Van Hool badged vehicle ever. It is still popular, thanks to its reliability, superb driving qualities and economical operating costs. Into 1980 and the AG280 articulated bus proved to

500TH Van Hool Fiat Text: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie

Double Deck coaches were then developed with Asian markets in mind. From 19831990, further changes took place as another recession seriously affected the bus and coach industry. A fleet of Van Hool airport apron shuttle buses were sold to Sabena airlines while an aborted partnership with Volvo to produce 300 units to Bangkok took its toll. Exports to the USA, UK and Canada helped stem the tide. A move to CAD/CAM technology (computeraided design, linked to computer-aided manufacturing) became essential, ensuring that the design and manufacture process would be quicker.

As take-overs and mergers were prevalent, Van Hool got involved by buying out ‘LAG’ Bus in Bree, in its home country. Further light shone at the end of the tunnel with the formation of the European single market. New business across Europe was conducted alongside additional research and development of new buses and coaches.

The T815 Acron proved to be an award winner followed by the premiere of the T9 model at the Kortrijk show. Dovetailing its bus/coach and trailer developments, Van Hool pioneered weight reduction in its tilt and curtainsider trailers, together with modifying inter-modal transport.

1998 witnessed Van Hool acquire a stake in ABC Bus Company Inc., reinforcing its presence in North America. The brand’s high quality reputation had a growing following across global markets and at the turn of the millennium its new public

transport range excelled. In 2005, the world debut of its first fuel cell powered bus happened in Dallas as awards for its expanding selection of passenger vehicles came flooding in from various markets worldwide. Yet another economic decline in 2009/2010 had a significant impact but Van Hool continued to develop, with the new TX range and Exqui.City trambus shaping its future.

The trailer and box-body subsidiary was ever increasing its profi le with numerous blue chip transport companies investing in its products across Europe. Award winning too! Bus and coach models were developed and built especially for the North American market. Concurrently, a new factory in Skopje, Macedonia was constructed with the first vehicle produced in 2013. Upwards and onwards from then on with the TDX27 Astromega doubledecker coach, TX Touring Euro 6 and its latest model the EX, which premiered at the IAA in 2014.

Today, Van Hool of Belgium manufactures approximately 1,300 buses and coaches and over 3,000 commercial trailers, 80 percent of which are exported worldwide. With a workforce of more than 4,000 employees, its bus and coach offerings stretch from a 9m midi-bus to a 25m double deck low floor bus.

The Irish link with Van Hool has remained strong, with many fleet and individual sales. The announcement of 30 single deck - articulated Exqui.City hybrid trambuses to the Belfast Rapid Transit (BFT) set for delivery next year, further strengthens this relationship.

Van Hool USA www.fleet.ie

20 | ADVERTORIAL/HANDOVER

Rooney International to impress with King Long Empress

R

ooney International Coach Hire, the independent coach hire company based in Hilltown, County Down, has taken delivery of a brand new King Long Empress XMQ6129Y coach. The family run business offers coach hire to all major attractions including Cross-Channel & European destinations. The new vehicle was supplied by King Long Europe UK Ltd (Telephone: 0044 1217843335).

The 12-metre 55-seater touring coach comes fitted with a Cummins ISL Euro 6 8.9 litre (400hp) diesel engine, ZF Ecolife 6-speed automatic transmission, and ZF steering. It is well specificed, featuring full air suspension, air conditioning, electric sun visor and fridge, PA system, radio/CD/DVD/3 monitors, centre continental door, reversing and centre door camera, Wabco disc brakes and ZF retarder.

Eamonn Rooney of Rooney International is delighted with the company’s new acquisition, “It is always a pleasure dealing with the friendly and helpful staff at King Long Europe UK. This new vehicle drives like a dream and the fact it is fully automatic means I can put any driver I want into it without prior training, unlike the previous auto gear boxes used. It also looks great amongst the rest of our fleet at Rooney International.”

Paul Nicholson, Sales Director, King Long Europe UK Ltd wishing the best of luck to Eamonn Rooney at the handover of Rooney International’s new King Long coach.

Founded in 1988, Xiamen King Long United Automotive Industry Company Ltd (‘King Long’) was the first Chinese bus, coach and mini van manufacturer to enter the EU market, and has been a familiar presence at Busworld Europe on six consecutive occasions. Since its launch it has achieved an annual average sales growth of 34%.

With its own R&D and testing institutions approved by the Chinese State, including a Safety & Energy-Saving Testing Centre, King Long is ranked #1 in the industry in terms of corporate R&D strength and product technology level.

King Long has successfully provided official bus services to many international conferences or large-scale events including the Beijing Olympic Games, World Expo Shanghai, Guangzhou Asian Games, FIFA World Cup South Africa, and the Singapore Youth Olympic Games.

For the Irish and UK markets, King Long Europe UK offers a broad range of buses and coaches including the following models: • Dynasty 9m (35 seats) • Dragon 10m (39 seats) • XMQ6127 12m (49 seats) • Empress XMQ6129 12m (55 seats) • Intercity 6110C bus/coach 11m (45+1+1 seats) • 6120C 12m (66+1 seats) • 6130C 13m (70+1 seats) • XMQ6130 Tri-axle 13m (57 seats and WC) • Emperor XMQ6140 14m (63 seats) King Long also offers a selection of 12m and 13m school buses and 9m and 12m city buses. Last year King Long introduced the E12 Eco Chip ISG plug-in hybrid electric bus.

For further enquiries and sales information, please call King Long’s bus and coach specialist, Paul Nicholson on 0044 7984656430.

King Long Parts Store Update!

For King Long Parts Call - 0044 121 784 3335 (Extension/Option 3)

service and offer same day delivery on most parts. (Calls before 2pm)

The new King Long premises has now undergone a complete parts overhaul, with 95% first pick parts availability to all customers in the UK & Ireland.

The team at King Long Europe UK is always trying to ensure a quick, easy and friendly service to all of its valued customers.

Introducing new Parts Manager Keith Jones, who will give the best possible

Call Keith Jones direct on 0044 7827 894449

FLEETBUS&COACH | Spring 2017

Kinglong Europe UK Ltd Unit 2, Bannerley Rd Garre s Green Industrial Estate Birmingham, B33 0SL

To the Passenger Transport Department March 2017 Dear Sir / Madam, I am wri ng to offer you 'The Bargain of the Century'. We have three King Long shu le buses that came off contract hire, all specified with luggage racking, all fully MOT’d and only 3 years old. Specifica on informa on is as follows :City Bus / Shuttle Bus Layout – 2013/2012 XMQ6127J Available now 2 X 2013 XMQ6127J – 29 Seats plus 21 Standing 1 x 2012 XMQ6127J – 31 Seats plus 19 Standing Low Mileage Vehicles All MOT’d All three are currently fi ed with luggage racking (which can be removed if required and replaced with sea ng) SALE PRICE - £64,950 EACH Hire op ons are available Please see further photographs a ached. If you are interested in hiring or buying these vehicles please get in touch directly with me on 0044 798 465 6430.

Yours sincerely, Paul Nicholson Sales Director King Long Europe UK Ltd.

Tel: 0044 121 784 3335 Company Number: 07871959 sales@kinglongeurope.co.uk

22 | CONDUCTORS' STAND

Operation Trans(port)formation for Bus Éireann needed

JOIN OUR CO-OP

Back Seat Driver by Sean Murtagh

I

t is difficult to see what way and how the current difficulties in public transport will level out. As with the Luas dispute the only groups showing any level of leadership or laying out their stall are the unions. I am conscious of the fact that by the time you are reading this piece, we could be involved in an industrial dispute of a strike nature.

One solution to solving the problem would be for Transport Minister, Shane Ross to take leave of absence or a career break for a week. He could then go back to his job as a journalist with the Sunday Independent and in his column he could tell us what is wrong with our public transport service and how to resolve it. Then on getting back behind his desk in Leinster House he could follow his own plan. But of course he does not need to do that, as a journalist he told us on many occasions that the State does not need to operate an airliner or bus company. Yes, easier to talk about it than do it.

Another group that may be feeling a little uncomfortable at the increased focus on its activities is the National Transport Authority (NTA). In attributing blame for the difficulties at Bus Éireann the unions have laid some of the blame at the Authority’s door, accusing it of creating capacity well above the potential demand or growth, particularly on the motorway intercity routes. There are a lot of similarities between what is happening to Bus Éireann now, and what happened to Aer Lingus with the arrival of low cost operators in the market.

Aer Lingus struggled to compete with rival airlines, Ryanair, easyJet and Aer Arann. It had to become agile to stay in business. In the past, the Government was able to bail the company out, but strict European competition laws closed down that source of funding. Savings and efficiencies along with changes in work practices were the only way the State airline could survive. Ironically, it was this new approach to doing business that made Aer Lingus one of the most agile and competitive airlines in Europe.

Is the same transformation possible with Bus Éireann? Is there a way that management and workers can create a company that is cost effective and efficient without interfering with workers’ terms and conditions? It looks like they have no choice but to do this. Government, even if it wanted, will not be able to put more money into the company and the CEO has been very honest in saying that the money is going to run out, and soon. It is possible that the unions are very well aware of this and are ready to let the Expressway brand disappear and negotiate favourably redundancy packages for their members.

Private operators have increased their presence in the market and those that have been around a long time are now happy to be operating on a level playing pitch.

In the past, if a private operator was awarded a licence to operate on a new route, there was always a suspicion that the State company swamped the route with extra vehicles to make commercial viability difficult.

Dónal / M.D.

Sandra / E.D.

Dear Private Coach Operator, Becoming a member in our All Ireland Private Coach Tourism Co-Op Network gives you: 1 New Coach Business Offers in both Private Hire and Tourism 2 Ownership/Shares in the Co-Op 3 Regular Newsletter with Transport/ Tourism & Trade Association updates 4 De Luxe Quality Vehicle Ownership 5 Your listing on www.32cc group.ie for direct bookings to your Company 2017 should be a good year for tourism transport. By becoming a member of our Co-Op you will have an extra Sales Distribution line for your Private Hire Tourism vehicles.

All quality Private Coach/Bus Owner Members can choose to invest €5K, €15K or €30K p.a and benefit as above.

Results: €5.3m+ in new business to their companies over the years Ownership in 2 International brands (Irish Coaches & Hello Ireland Tours) “Filling Gaps for Members Benefits” 11+ Years Success On-the-Road Invest & Own Shares and Forward Dividends Thirty Two Counties Coaches Designated Activity Company Ulster Bank Chambers, 2/4 Lr. O’Connell St., Dublin 1 01 - 8788936 / 8788894 E-mail: dch@32ccgroup.ie www.32ccgroup.ie www.irishcoaches.ie www.helloireland.com

Talk with Dónal or Sandra

In the end it will come down to State and private operators’ competitiveness. Like the budget airlines, those that have competitive costs will win out.

FLEETBUS&COACH | Spring 2017

Text Sean Murtagh – sean@fleet.ie

pow ere

EUR d by DAF O6

Extremely efďŹ cient.

The entirely new, modern and streamlined interior and exterior design of the EX reects the characteristics of the vehicle: functional and efďŹ cient. Created with the values of the Van Hool range in mind: great reliability, combined with a high level of ďŹ nishing.

welcome to the world of Van Hool elegance and efďŹ ciency in transport 6AN (OOL .6 s "ERNARD 6AN (OOLSTRAAT "% ,IER +ONINGSHOOIKT "ELGIUM s TEL s SALES BC

VANHOOL BE s WWW VANHOOL BE