Bus and Coach Professional August 2020 by greenbusandcoach

August 2020

Issue 417

driving towards a greener future

ADL restuctures with 650 jobs at risk

A Europe-wide service network for Mercedes-Benz and Setra vehicles. Unrivalled technical know-how in repair and maintenance, complete with genuine parts purchasing via OMNIplus eShop â&#x20AC;&#x201C; open 24/7. All complemented by a wealth of digital services through OMNIplus ON connectivity. www.omniplus.com

A Daimler Brand

Manufacturer expertise. Service you can rely on.

Always by your side.

Provider: EvoBus (UK) Ltd. Ashcroft Way, Cross Point Business Park, Coventry CV2 2TU

comment Bus and Coach Professional is published by Plum Publishing Ltd

Editorial Steve Rooney steve.rooney@busandcoach.com

Contact address: Bus and Coach Professional Plum Publishing Ltd, Unit 4 Marshbrook Business Park Church Stretton SY6 6QE Telephone: 01694 731510 www.busandcoach.com

Every care is taken over the accuracy of material in Bus and Coach Professional but the publishers cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions. Views and opinions of contributors to Bus and Coach Professional are not necessarily those of the publishers who cannot accept responsibility for such contributions. If you would like to amend your mailing details or no longer wish to receive the printed magazine, please just contact us as per the above details. Letters and articles may be submitted to the editor at the address above.

Looking for hope amid coach sector’s financial crisis THE parlous state of the coach tourism sector has been brought into sharp focus by the recent events organised by Honk for Hope UK. The gatherings in Lightwater, Blackpool, London and Edinburgh represent an impressive show of solidarity and reflect the fact that the coach industry is a close-knit community with a strong sense of mutual aid in times of need. The organisers of the Honk for Hope events are fully aware of the challenge in getting direct government support for the sector, but they see it as the only hope for its survival given the devastating impact of the lockdown. The crunch is now coming with a vengeance. Repayments on finance agreements are putting huge strain on businesses which have not been getting any income for months, and in many cases haemorrhaging cash in the form of customer refunds. Repossession of coaches is already underway, although the lenders are likely to realise very low values in a second-hand coach market which is on the floor. CPT has now presented a fresh set of proposals to the Department for Transport, having had its earlier call for a £65million a month payment for coach operators rebuffed by ministers. The trade body’s new plan focuses on the finance repayment crisis by calling for 12 months’ breathing space for operators and an end to the calling-in of personal guarantees which could lead to business owners’ homes being repossessed. The analysis presented by CPT is stark, with estimates of up to 41 per cent of coach businesses collapsing by the spring if there is no support forthcoming. It has highlighted the challenge that this will bring for the government in providing enough vehicles for home-to-school transport in the autumn term and is hoping this will get their attention. The rest of the sector is hoping that they are right, and that this time there will be a positive response.

@busandcoach_com Follow

August 2020

contents comment 5-16 news Greener Journeys research backs role of bus in post-Covid recovery.

18-19 analysis CPT presents second set of rescue proposals for coach sector to DfT amid dire warnings of mass company failures.

20-25 green Yutong electric buses on way to Norway for Keolis contract in Bergen.

20-25 green First new cameras in place for extension of London ULEZ.

26 international Busworld India postponed until 2021.

27-28 technology TruTac software provides increased driver control at Travelstar European.

4â&#x20AC;&#x192;

August 2020

news

New KPMG research backs role of buses in restarting economy GREENER Journeys says that new research by KPMG backs up its assertion that buses are critical to restarting the UK economy in the wake of Covid-19. The group, which is backed by all the major UK bus groups, says that the impact of months of Government urging people to avoid public transport has taken its toll on the economy. Prior to COVID-19, the bus was the main mode of access to city centres, responsible for a third of city centre expenditure. Bus commuters were generating £64billion in goods and services every year. The new KPMG research shows that £2billion of investment in buses would generate 425 million additional journeys per year in England outside of London, and each £1 invested would generate £4.48 in wider social, economic and environmental benefits. All local authority areas in England outside of London could expect to see at least a 20 per cent increase in bus patronage, claims the report. Greener Journeys is calling on government to be more positive in its messaging and encourage the responsible use of public transport. “The PM may have dropped the

“avoid public transport” message, but he is still encouraging people to use alternative means of transport wherever possible. This won’t be enough to restart the economy,” says Claire Haigh, chief executive, Greener Journeys. “The fundamental role of mass transit in facilitating economic activity is as essential today as it ever was. “We need a green recovery and that will require a massive shift from private transport to public, shared and active travel. The forthcoming national bus strategy must maximise the potential of the bus to tackle pollution, reduce social deprivation and reignite the economy”. Bus patronage today is at just a third of pre-crisis levels, as more

people are choosing to drive instead of taking public transport. “We risk replacing one health crisis with another,” adds Haigh. “Air pollution linked to road traffic causes 40,000 early deaths a year. Diesel cars and vans produce more than two thirds of NOx emissions from transport. Furthermore, recent studies have demonstrated a direct link between long-term exposure to air pollution and higher infection and death rates from COVID-19. “The bus is central to tackling air pollution. A modern diesel bus produces fewer NOx emissions overall than a modern diesel car despite being able to carry 20 times more passengers.” www.greenerjourneys.com

Looking to lease a coach or bus?

For good advice and a great deal, call 07710 088674 Email simon.matthews@cbvh.co.uk August 2020

www.closebrothersvehiclehire.co.uk

news

Up to 650 jobs could go at ADL amid collapse in orders

A LE X A NDER Dennis has announced that as a result of the significant decline in UK demand for new buses and coaches, it is starting a restructuring programme which could see up to 650 jobs lost. The manufacturer, now part of US-owned NFI, says that many UK customers are not in a position to place orders for new vehicles following the impact of lockdown, social distancing and low passenger numbers. ADL has used the UK Government’s Job Retention Scheme as well as implementing salary reductions and reduced working hours for non-furloughed staff, along with stringent cost saving measures across all business functions. However, it says the steps taken so far are insufficient to align the company’s cost

base to the current economic reality and it now seeks to move to a leaner, more flexible manufacturing model that maintains its strong customer focus and best-in-class aftermarket support. A formal consultation will begin in the coming weeks on the restructuring programme, which places up to 650 jobs at risk across all functions and at all of ADL’s facilities in the UK. “A few short months ago, we were looking at a record year of sales, reaping the benefits of all our investment in new technology, new products and new markets,” says Colin Robertson, who is transitioning from his role as ADL chief executive to join NFI’s board as vice chair. “All of this changed with the impact of COVID-19. “Since March, we have been in constant dialogue with the UK

and Scottish governments to make them aware of the unprecedented crisis facing our industry. We are deeply grateful for the support offered by the UK Government’s Job Retention Scheme, and we are heartened by the prime minister’s reiteration earlier this month of the pledge he made in February to bring 4,000 new green buses into service. “We continue to call upon both governments to act now to prevent further job cuts and preserve the UK’s world-leading bus and coach manufacturing industry.” The changes at ADL are part of a wider restructuring announced by NFI, affecting ADL’s sister companies in the USA and Canada along with the consolidation of ADL’s spare parts business in North America into NFI Parts. www.alexander-dennis.com

August 2020

We are talking

COMPLIANCE PARTNER

Perfect control over drivers and compliance data

Regarding the ’12 day rule’ and driver’s weekly rest periods, we need to know who might be at risk of exceeding their limit. TruTac’s CPT Tacho Analysis tells us this, along with working-times, infringements and tachograph data. Perfect control over drivers and compliance data.

THE QUEEN’S AWARDS FOR ENTERPRISE: INNOVATION 2020

Craig Jackson. Operations Manager, Travelstar European.

For peace of mind and complete compliance control of your fleet, call us today! 024 7669 0000

info@trutac.co.uk www.trutac.co.uk

Complete Compliance Control

news

Reading Buses announces 33 redundancies in wake of Covid-19 READING Buses has announced cost-saving measures including up to 33 redundancies in various roles across the company. The company says that it has been hit hard by the Coronavirus pandemic which at one point saw customer numbers fall to lower than 10 per cent of normal levels. With changes to service levels, the use of the furlough scheme and additional government funding, Reading Buses has been able to continue to provide a service for key workers from the start of the pandemic and, as restrictions have been eased, it has increased services to a more-or-less normal pattern today. However, while customer num-

bers are growing slowly, the government furlough scheme will come to an end and there is no guarantee that people will return to their old routines, says Robert Williams, Reading Buses’ chief executive officer: “Like many others, we have been constantly using the word ‘unprecedented’ to describe the situation we have found ourselves in. With hugely reduced customer numbers and changes to the way we operate, it has been a difficult period to get through. “However, the industry as a whole is suffering. Once the pandemic is over and things return to ‘normal’ we expect that some people will continue in their cur-

rent pattern of using other modes of transport, working from home and internet shopping – all of which will see an ongoing reduction in both customer numbers and revenue. “If we continue to operate with the same costs whilst waiting for customers to return, it would result in the company no longer being able to survive.” In addition to 33 redundancies, the company is implementing other cost-cutting measures including a freeze on new recruitment, including apprenticeships, a freeze on investment in new vehicles and new ways of working for existing staff www.reading-buses.co.uk

Report published into deaths of London bus drivers during pandemic TRANSPORT for London has responded to the publication of an independent review by UCL’s Institute of Health Equity into the deaths of bus drivers during the pandemic. TfL asked academics at the Institute of Health Equity to explore the pattern of infection with, and deaths from, coronavirus in the London bus worker population to inform recommendations on any

additional occupational health measures that should be put in place to protect them. The report finds that many of the London bus drivers who died from coronavirus were suffering with underlying health conditions, particularly high blood pressure. Among the bus drivers who died, most stopped work in the 10 days either side of lockdown on 23 March. The report also finds that

Why smart people buy Compak Parts

after lockdown, death rates came down. “It’s clear that frontline workers across the country have disproportionately suffered from coronavirus, which is why we worked closely with all London bus operators to introduce measures to help keep the capital’s drivers safe,” says Lilli Matson, TfL chief safety, health and environment officer. www.tfl.gov.uk

• Genuine OEM quality parts, made for purpose • Compak OEM parts cost less thank you think! • Unrivalled availability - One-stop-shop • Optimum delivery times - inc VOR • Technical expertise & support • Continuous and rigorous development testing For complete peace of mind:-

Tel: 01322 223638 Email: ryan.memory@compakramps.com

August 2020

Tired of the annual merry-go-round? Tired of the annualinsurance insurance merry-go-round? We can offer We can offer

- Coach - Quality insurance coverInsurance for private -and public hire - Quality insurance cover for private and public - Excellent customer service and immediate coverhire - - Excellent customer immediate - Dedicated taxi service fleet andand minibus policies cover - Dedicated taxi fleet and minibus policies - Expert claims management assistance - - Replacement minibuses- - Replacement hire hire minibuses - Easy paymentterms termswith with deposits deposits from asas 10% - - Easy payment fromasaslittle little 10% - Accesstotothe themajority majority of - - Access of UK UKtaxi taxiinsurers insurers - Plated hiretaxis taxis(fault (fault or ot non-fault - - Plated hire non-faultclaims) claims)

Paul, Harry, Harry, Bill, CallCall Adam, Bill,Craig CraigororJane: Jane: 01709 837008 008 01709 837 New Ebury House,South SouthGrove, Grove, Rotherham Rotherham S60 New Ebury House, S602AF 2AF Fax: 01709 839963 Email: paul@jenkinsoninsurance.co.uk Fax: 01709 839963 Email: adam@jenkinsoninsurance.co.uk

news

Three Enviro200s for Manchester operator Go Goodwins ALEXANDER Dennis delivered three Enviro200 midi buses to Manchester operator Go Goodwins for its Little Gem bus services which have been operating in North West England since 2019, when the company re-entered the bus market. New contracts from Cheshire East Council for two routes between Stockport and Macclesfield required an increase in vehicles. The three 9.7m long Enviro200s

were supplied from stock. “It’s easy to see why the Enviro200 is Britain’s favourite midi bus – it’s manoeuvrable, efficient and comfortable,” says Richard Matthews, ADL retail sales director. “Combined with excellent availability for immediate delivery, we are proud to support Go Goodwins’ Little Gem Buses on their new services for Cheshire East Council.” www.alexander-dennis.com

Transport committee launches inquiry into post-pandemic public transport

THE longer-term implications of the coronavirus pandemic for the UK’s public transport are to be examined by the Commons transport committee. The committee of MPs says that the actions of central and local government in response to the crisis could, and perhaps should, influence how people choose how to travel in the longer term. As more people work from home, shop online and choose to walk, cycle or drive, policy makers will need to reimagine how the trans-

port system works. It also presents a chance to explore reforms and technological innovations that may shape the future of transport in the UK and beyond. The new inquiry aims to take a holistic look at how public transport is changing and the implications for current government strategies including the Williams Rail Review, bus strategy, walking and cycling, taxis and private hire vehicles. The Committee is inviting written evidence on the extent that

the coronavirus pandemic could, and should, be used as an opportunity to reform public transport for the longer-term. The inquiry is seeking input on a range of issues, including the use of public transport and the way that people choose to travel, central and local governmental transport priorities and finances, and the decarbonisation of transport and the capability to meet net zero carbon emissions targets by 2050. www.parliament.u

August 2020

ESSENTIAL HYGIENE www.resultppe.com

news

Open top services return in Oxford

OXFORD Bus Company’s City Sightseeing Oxford open-top tours are re-starting with a special timetable operating at least every 20 minutes on a hop-on hop-off basis during the summer. Tickets purchased online will be valid for 12 months. Drivers and walking tour guides will be provided with PPE and face coverings will be made available to passengers to wear while on board the open-top tours around the city.

£50

OGZ 2524

£99

MGZ 9690

£250

says Jane Marshall, general manager, City Sightseeing Oxford. “The visitor economy has been severely impacted by COVID-19 and it is great to now see more and more tourist attractions and associated businesses re-opening and welcoming visitors. We have introduced a comprehensive hygiene system and we are safe and ready for when tourists wish to enjoy a tour of Oxford.” www.oxfordbus.co.uk

£350

OGZ MGZ 9699ABW 960X £250 MGZ 1861 9690 £250 OXZ£99 £350 AGZ 5210 MRZ 9799 2802 AXZ 711 ASZ 9820 ABW 960X MRZ 6201 9799 AXZ 711 NRZ 8555 PGZAGZ 9828 BFZ 311 ASZ 3993 AYZ 2301 OXZ MRZ 9891IXZ 522 7282 ABW 960X IXZ 522 LXZ 7200 NRZ 8555 BFZ 311 ORZ 5010 RGZ 1243 AYZ 2299 BFZ 811 BSZ 9967 PGZ 9828 NRZ 7707 ASZ 9995 ETH 881V LXZ 7200 NBZ 1638 ORZ 5010 BFZ 811 OXZ 2828 RRZ 2770 CXZ BSZ 9987 DSZ 4868 OGZ 2524 £99 112 £50 RGZ 7978 NBZ 1638 AYZ 2299 ORZ 5010NFZ 939 LXZ 4040 OXZ 2828 CXZ 112 PGZ RRZ 2771 CSZ 1424 ESZ 1505 2802 CXZ AGZ211 5210 ASZ 9909 9820 RRZ 6515 NFZ 939 BSZ OXZ 4774OXZ393 9901 9292 PGZ 9909 CXZ 211 RGZ GCZ DSZ 8881 MGZ 6109 UIG 7331 PGZ 9828 MXZ ASZ 114 3993 AYZ 1020 2301 OFZ RRZ PGZ 9989UCZ OFZ 393 RGZ 6516 1020 GCZ 114 RIG 8590 UIGCSZ 7332 GCZ ESZ 1333 9199 939 MXZ 6885 RGZ 949 1243 NFZ AYZ 117 2299 BSZ 9967 UCZ 949 UFZ 262 UIG RGZ 8081 RIG 9870 8590 GCZ 117 RRZ 3001 XHZDSZ 5330 SFZ 115 JFZ 3255 NGZ 8331 RRZ 2770 BSZ 9987 DSZ 4868 8881 NJZ 656 UFZ 262 RRZ 9871 3001 SFZ 115 UIG RIG 8601 YFZ UIG 8001 YNZ 8131 SFZ LXZ 9888 NXZ 9978 RRZ484 2771 OFZ CSZ511 1424 ESZ 1505 4555 393 YFZ 484 ESZ UIG 8001 SFZ 511 DSZ 515 8881 MGZ XHZ 6880 RRZ6109 6888UIG 7331 YFZ NGZ 8331 8840 Co. Fermanagh, Millwood,JFZ Lisbellaw, N. Ireland BT94 5HQ UIG 7332 ESZ 1333 MXZ 6885 YNZ 8128 UIG 8820 Millwood, Ireland BT94LXZ 5HQ8881 NXZLisbellaw, 9978 Co. Fermanagh, N.Tel: 636 028 6638 7124 · www.speedyreg.co.uk · sales@speedyreg.co.uk XHZ 5330 YLZ JFZ 3255 NGZ 8331

£50 ASZ 9820 AYZ 2301 BSZ 9967 DSZ 4868 ESZ 1505 MGZ 6109 MXZ 6885 NGZ 8331 NXZ 9978

£50

Numbers on walking tours will be limited to 10 people per tour and only one group at a time will be permitted to climb the Carfax Tower. Live commentary will not be available on the bus tour in line with current government guidelines, but recorded commentary is available in fifteen different languages. “We’re looking forward to returning to service and welcoming visitors to our wonderful city,”

OGZ 2524 £99 OXZ 2802 ASZ 9805 AGZ 5210 PGZ 9828 ASZ 3993 AYZ1243 4474 AYZ 2299 RGZ BSZ 6580 RRZ 2770 BSZ 9987 DSZ 7505 CSZ 1424 RRZ 2771 UIG 7331 ESZ 4645 DSZ 8881 UIG 7332 MGZ 9848ESZ 1333 XHZ 5330 MXZ 6556JFZ 3255 YNZ 8131 LXZ 9888

Tel: 028 6638 7124 · www.speedyreg.co.uk · sales@speedyreg.co.uk

NXZ 9978

YNZ 8131

LXZ 9888

£350

AXZ 767 BXZ 811

MGZ 9690 £250 171 ABW 960X MRZ 9799CXZ IXZ411 522 NRZ 8555 FFZ LXZ115 7200 ORZ 5010 FGZ NBZ 1638 OXZ 2828 LBZ 550 NFZ 939 PGZ 9909 SFZ 115 OFZ 393 RGZ 1020 SFZ 511 UCZ 949 RIG 8590 171 UFZ 262 RRZ 3001 YJZ YFZ 484 UIG 8001

£350 AXZ 711 BFZ 311 BFZ 811 CXZ 112 CXZ 211 GCZ 114 GCZ 117 SFZ 115 SFZ 511

Millwood, Lisbellaw, Co. Fermanagh, N. Ireland BT94 5HQ Tel: 028 6638 7124 · www.speedyreg.co.uk · sales@speedyreg.co.uk

August 2020

news

NAT group launches new Cardiff route A new bus route connecting Capital Retail Park and Cardiff City Stadium with Pengam Green (Tesco) via Ocean Way and Grangetown will be available in September, operated by NAT Group which is also rebranding and extending its current X8 route as part of new network plans. NAT Group will begin operation of the C2 service, part of its Cross City network, on 7 September, providing new links for commuters, shoppers and residents and running every 20 minutes Monday to Saturday. In conjunction with the C2 launch, the existing X8 route, which connects Cardiff City Centre with Cardiff Bay to the south and Thornhill to the north, will be renamed C8 and in future, all NAT bus routes in Cardiff will start with the prefix ‘C’, while the ‘X’ prefix will be reserved for Cross Country services. “The introduction of the C2 and the extension and rebrand of the now C8, are just two of the significant changes to our network

that we are steadily rolling out,” says NAT Group managing director Adam Keen. “They represent a major step forward for us as a business, but more importantly, they provide new links for the people of Cardiff and are based on feedback received from bus users and our colleagues. We are making fast and substantial progress and

would urge people to try these new routes so that they have the best possible chance of success.” NAT Group has depots in Cardiff, Swansea and Taffs Well and operates 150 vehicles. The company is currently undergoing a rebrand, of all vehicle livery with the Adventure Travel branding. www.natgroup.co.uk

New Covid-19 travel insurance for coach operators from Wrightsure SPECIALIST insurance broker to the coach tourism industry, Wrightsure, has launched a new Covid-19 specific travel insurance for operators. The insurance, which covers Covid-related cancellation and medical expenses, forms part of Wrightsure’s existing holiday travel insurance. The product has been designed for coach tour operators looking to offer added reassurance for their clients. It offers protection should a coach tour operator’s client con-

August 2020

tract Covid-19 prior to their scheduled departure date or whilst they are on holiday. “The Covid-19 pandemic has been a major cause of concern for coach tour operators for more than five months,” says Andrew Day, Wrightsure business development director. “Although coach tours are now starting to operate again, it is clear that a full return to anything like normality will require consumers having the confidence to travel once again. This new

ground-breaking insurance cover, gives our coach operator clients the opportunity to offer their customers that necessary added peace of mind. “I’m really pleased to be able to add this new product to our existing range of specialist products and services. Our relationships with coach operators across the UK has meant we’ve been able to design this new product knowing that it’s exactly what they need.” www.wrightsure.com

FLEET RESOURCING LTD - COACHES FOR SALE

Cake, Coaches and Coffee

at The Bus & Coach Centre Aug 15-16: 10.00-14.00hrs For those of you that have not had the opportunity to pop in and see us we are hosting an Open Day Weekend. We have a large selection of coaches on offer, plenty of coffee and cakes (individually wrapped). Mark (Fleet Resourcing) & William (Bus and Coach Centre) will be on hand to discuss any vehicle of interest, socially distanced of course. If you would like to come along, we ask that you RSVP either by phone or email, AS WE MUST LIMIT THE NUMBERS IN ATTENDANCE. Operationally: • Track & Trace sign in system, name & contact details must be provided. • Face coverings must be worn inside the office & coaches. (masks and sanitisers available) • Sanitising stations are on site, using X Mist (also for sale) • Road testing of coaches is on a rotation system, please ask for details. Contact: William : 07889469157 Email: William Blowfield sales@busandcoachcentre.co.uk

2017 Scania Higer Touring 57 seats WC

2015 Volvo B11R Sunsundegui 46 seats WC

2016 Neoplan Tourliner 53 seats WC

2015 Neoplan Tourliner 53 seats WC

For further details and a full stock list Tel Mark 0791 961 2374 / William 07889 469157 W: www.busandcoachcentre.co.uk

FLEET RESOURCING LTD - COACHES FOR SALE

2019 Volvo B8R Sunsundegui 72 seats

2019 Volvo B8R Sunsundegui 38 seats WC

2019 Scania Higer Touring 57 seats WC

2019 MAN Neoplan Tourliner 55 seats WC

2018 DAF Irizar i6 57 seats WC

2018 Scania Higer Interlink 53 seats WC

2018 Mercedes Tourismo 48 seats WC

2018 Neoplan Tourliner 53 seats WC

2017 Mercedes Tourismo 48 seats WC

2016 Scania Higer Touring 57 seats WC

2017 Mercedes Tourismo 48 seats WC

2015 Volvo B11R 9700 53 seats WC

2013 Scania Irizar i6 53 seats WC

2015 Mercedes Tourismo 55 seats WC

2012 Neoplan Tourliner 53 seats WC

2016 Volvo B11R Jonckheere 53 seats WC

2014 Setra 416 GTHD 49 seats WC

2013 DAF Van Hool 53 seats WC

2015 Volvo B9R Sunsundegui 53 seats WC

2008 Scania Irizar 57 seats WC

For further details and a full stock list Tel Mark 0791 961 2374 / William 07889 469157 W: www.busandcoachcentre.co.uk

news

24/7 bus lane trial in London

TRANSPORT for London is planning a trial to extend the hours of bus lanes in the capital to reflect a customer shift away from peak hours, and help ensure a sustainable recovery from the pandemic. Before the pandemic, in 2018/19, 1.15 billion journeys were made on the bus routes that will now benefit from the proposed changes to 24/7 operation. The trial will start in late summer and will make bus journeys quicker throughout the day as 24-hour bus lanes will reduce the impact of any congestion on buses. Claire Mann, director of bus operations, at TfL, says: “This pandemic has changed the way we all live, work and travel. For that reason, we need to adapt our network, be flexible and continue to help people travel safely and reliably as London gets back on its feet. “The proposed changes to the operational hours of bus lanes will have significant benefits for bus passengers and people cycling

beyond the current hours of operation, many of which were introduced years ago in a very different situation. “We will carefully consider all feedback to ensure the trial has the greatest benefit to the greatest number of people and supports London’s recovery from coronavirus.”

Tim Bellenger, director of policy and investigation at London TravelWatch, adds: “Bus passengers will welcome this initiative to improve bus speeds, reduce journey times and improve service reliability. This is something that London TravelWatch has called for over a number of years.” www.tfl.gov.uk

New ADL Enviro400 trio delivered to Bluestar in Southampton GO-AHEAD owned Bluestar has taken delivery of three Enviro 400 MMC double-decks for its Southampton operation. It is part of an investment programme which has seen 111 new vehicles added to its fleet during the last five years. “It is particularly pertinent that we unveiled these low emissions vehicles at one of the city’s newly introduced bus lanes,” says Bluestar managing director Andrew Wickham. “The decision by Southampton City Council to embrace green and efficient public transport - includ-

ing the introduction of the new bus lanes - will help to ensure services are frequent, reliable, and wellused here. “This, in turn, leads to further investment in new and cleaner buses for the city. “This particular expenditure was made prior to lockdown, and we are pleased to be introducing the vehicles to our customers in Southampton now. One positive to come from the past four months, is that the area’s congestion has greatly reduced.” www.bluestarbus.co.uk

August 2020

Analysis Analysis

CPT leads fresh bid for support for coach sector

Honk for Hope UK gatherings have highlighted the plight of the industry while CPT delviers its second set of rescue proposals to DfT.

PT has presented its second set of proposals in as many months to help rescue the beleaguered coach sector which has been severely impacted by the Covid-19 lockdown. The continuing crisis for UK coach operators has been highlighted by the Honk for Hope events in recent weeks. The impetus of the campaign received a jolt just ahead of the London event last month when CPT reported that ministers had turned down their original ‘Back Britain’s Coaches’ campaign which called for a per vehicle subsidy to each coach operator amounting to £65million a month to help them get through an ’18-month winter’. Following a further round of industry consultations, CPT has now presented a new set of proposals.

This time it has honed in on what it perceives is a weakness for the government concerning the provision of extra coach services to transport children when schools reopen in September. CPT believes that the government is very concerned that there may be a lack of vehicles available at a time when ministers are desperate to provide alternatives to children crowding on to regular bus and rail services. The availability of coaches to help provide these services will be impacted by operators struggling to survive, according to CPT, with many businesses likely to fail over the coming months unless they get government help. CPT’s stark analysis claims that as much as 41 per cent of the coach sector could be wiped out between September 2020 and April 2021 unless operators get

August 2020

Analysis

urgent help. The biggest issue which is now causing alarm in the sector is repayment of finance agreements for coaches, combined with the fact that many coach business owners have had to put their homes up as collateral for these loans. The CPT proposals also reflect the damage that the pandemic has done to the manufacturing and supply sector with capital investment all but at a stop. It estimates that an expected 80 per cent reduction in new coach sales and 9,100 vehicles out of use, means the supply sector may make 25 per cent of its workforce redundant in September 2020, with a further loss of jobs in the new year. In total, CPT says almost 40 per cent (10,000 employees) in the coach supply sector could be made redundant. CPT argues that the government could help by postponing all capital payments for 12 months from August 2020, using existing schemes it has introduced in response to the pandemic, so that interest and arrangement charges are paid by government. It points out that without this, lenders would otherwise repossess vehicles that are impossible to sell on at anywhere near book asset values, therefore incurring losses. “Postponement means a delay, but ultimately re-payment of capital,” argues CPT. The proposals also call for the removal of existing personal guarantees for business owners including an exclusion for principal private residences. August 2020

A further demand is for the coach industry to be given access to support available for leisure/retail industry. This is driven from CPT’s estimate that only 15 per cent of coach operators have had access to grant funding and business rate relief so far, leaving 85 per cent of operators out in the cold. Finally, CPT is calling for daily coach rates for existing home-to-school services to be increased until the end of spring term 2021 since operators will not have other ‘infill’ work, and therefore these school services need to cover their full costs. CPT president Steve Whiteway has appealed to the whole industry to get behind the new CPT propoosals: “We are all here to work together and if we don’t then the industry will not have a future. The only access to the decision makers is through CPT, so lets make the most of that and all pull together.” Meanwhile, the Honk for Hope campaign has continued with a further gathering in Edinburgh as the whole industry awaits the response of the government. CPT officials have warned that there is unlikely to be an early response from government and that there may be continuing negotiations over coming weeks. For some operators this may be all too late, but it’s probably the best hope that the coach sector has right now. www.cpt-uk.org/_uploads/attachment/5164.pdf

green

OUR PICK OF THE LATEST ENVIRONMENTAL DEVELOPMENTS IN THE BUS AND COACH SECTOR

Analysis of operational use of electric buses shows effect of temperature on vehicle range VIRICITI has released a new report providing data on the average consumption of electric buses and the average distance driven on a fully charged battery. This research is claimed to be the first of its kind to analyse the performance of such a large sample of buses ( more than 100) consistently over several seasons and months, and to look separately at how much 12m and 18m buses consume in cold, normal, and high temperatures. Temperature is known to be one of the main factors inf luencing electric bus range and consumption, and the findings indicate that cold weather can increase consumption by 21 per

cent. ViriCiti says that the consumption of 12m buses goes up by 14 per cent in cold temperatures on average. High temperatures also increase the consumption by 9 per cent. Similar effects were noticed on 18m buses with data showing the average consumption increasing by 21 per cent during cold weather, and by 12 per cent when the temperature is high. The average distance driven of the 12m buses analysed is 218.02 km (135.47 miles) per day. For the 18m buses, the average is 164.32 km (102.10 miles) per day. On the basis of the analysis conducted with Dutch operators, ViriCiti says that with optimised infrastruc-

ture and operational processes, electric buses are able to run as much as diesel buses (up to 500 km/day). With more than 3,500 buses and chargers across the world, ViriCiti claims to be the market leader in electric bus telematics in Europe and USA. For this study, ViriCiti gathered anonymised data from 106 buses, 79 12m and 27 18m in seven cities in the Netherlands from different manufacturers. The average daily temperatures were assessed in three categories: cold temperatures (-10 to 14°C), normal (15 to 19°C), and high (20 to 29°C. www.viriciti.com

Yutong e-buses en route from Shanghai to Bergen, Norway for new Keolis contract

TWO batches of Yutong electric buses left Shanghai on their journey to Bergen, Norway for deliveries to Keolis as part of a new contract for 138 vehicles, including 102 EVs. The first batch of 29 e-buses left Shanghai on 9 July, and a second batch of 30 e-buses left Shanghai on 28 July. The full order of 102 electric buses (88 12m long and 14 15m long) was placed with Yutong at the end 2019. A third batch is expected to be shipped in early August. In addition to the Yutongs, Keolis has ordered 10 trolley buses from Solaris and 26 HVO buses from Volvo. At the same time, infrastructure work is being undertaken at Bergen Mannsverk depot to install

charging infrastructure. The 138 fossil-free vehicles are expected to carry 17 million passengers a year and will contribute to improving quality of life for

nearly 300,000 inhabitants of Norway’s second largest city, where Keolis already operates the tram network. www.keolis.com

August 2020

green MVG puts MAN Lion’s City E on trial in Munich AN MAN Lion’s City E is being operated on Munich’s MVG Museenlinie 100 bus route between the Hauptbahnhof and Ostbahnhof stations as part of a trial. “This is a première as the Lion’s City E is being used in regular-service operations in the Bavarian capital Munich for the first time,” says Rudi Kuchta, head of business unit bus at MAN Truck & Bus. MVG, the public transport operator in Munich, aims is to gradually switch its fleet of buses to emission-free drivelines. “We are delighted that MAN is testing one of its first electric buses on our network with us as the transport provider,” says MVG’s Ingo Wortmann. “Our aim for the next ten years is clear – we want to distance ourselves from oil, and move towards zero emission operations. For this, we need reliable electric buses that have a long range.” The 12m MAN Lion’s City E retains the colours and equipment of MVG, so it is instantly recognisable as a vehicle from the Munich public transport f leet. The electric bus can accommodate up to 88 passengers and includes an optimised seating area in the rear, resulting from the lack of an engine tower.

The electric bus is driven by a central motor on the rear axle which MAN says is simpler and more accessible than motors in close proximity to the wheel hubs. The same drive axle is also installed as in the other models of the new Lion’s City range. The electric driveline produces between 160 kW and a maximum of 240kW. The energy for this comes from six lithium-ion battery modules with 480kWh of installed capacity. This allows the Lion’s City E to ensure a range of 200km, and up to 27 km in favourable conditions, over the entire service life of the batteries, says MAN. With a

charging power of up to 150kW, the bus can be charged in less than three hours. “The topic of range is particularly important for Stadtwerke München and MVG,” adds Kuchta. “We are optimistic that MVG and MAN will be very happy with the results. The batteries are adapted to the particular requirements of city bus use and MAN’s expertise is also demonstrated by the sophisticated temperature management system which ensures particularly good availability no matter the time of year.” www.mantruckandbus.com

LGV/PCV & DCPC Phone now GET QUA L IFIED 01733 567 478 August 2020

Seat belts, fittin

green

OUR PICK OF THE LATEST ENVIRONMENTAL

TEL: 020 FAX: 020 8428 4525 TEL: 020 8428 3197 FAX: 020 8428 8428 3197 4525 DEVELOPMENTS IN THE BUS AND COACH SECTOR contact@bernsteinengineering.co.uk contact@bernsteinengineering.co.uk www.bernsteinengineering.co.uk www.bernsteinengineering.co.uk

BYD eBus fleet delivery to Pécs in Hungary

REFURBISHMENT

Join the Join the conversation... conversation... LOW COST

BYD has completed a delivery of ten eBuses to public transport operator, Tüke Busz Zrt, in the southern Hungarian city of Pécs, representing the first electric buses for the city. The vehicles were manufactured at BYD’s production facility in Komárom, Hungary. The eBus fleet handover begins ‘routeONE magazine’ a longer-term commitment from ‘routeONE magazine’ Tüke Busz Zrt to convert its entire f leet to battery electric power. Despite the initial COVID-19 6 Coaches from £900 Coaches from £900 tel: 01522 p lockdown restrictions, BYD says parts: graham@bhiuk. Service buses from £750 Service buses from £750 it was able to meet the planned delivery date for Tüke Busz Zrt. Minibuses from £600 Minibuses from £600 Tüke Busz Zrt’s new eBus fleet @routeoneteam Deckers from £950 Deckers from £950 @routeoneteam consists of BYD’s 12m low-floor Quotes on any other Quotes on any other model, and will replace older vehicles on request vehicles on request diesel-powered buses. The 12m model delivers a range of 300km on a single charge and, across the new BYD f leet, will cover 900,000km per year– 10 per cent /routeONEtv /routeONEtv of the Tüke Busz Zrt’s annual to continuing on this path and Isbrand Ho, managing direcmileage. Charging infrastructure to do everything possible here, tor, BYD Europe, adds: “This is for the company’s new fleet has locally, to protect the environment landmark for the future 07774day 485310 Day 07774 485310 a Day also been designed and installed and the climate. public transport in Hungary. 01789 296884 Night 01789 296884 ofNight by BYD. “WeEmail have found an excellentEmailThe citizens of Pécs will experij.chandler1946@btinternet.com j.chandler1946@btinternet.com Pécs’s mayor Attila Péterffy partner in BYD, and I sincerely ence for the first Daniel time aLunn new way Steven VEHICLES VEHICLES FINISHED Sales says: “The 10 new electric buses hope that weALL will be able FINISHED to work toALL travel – one that isManager safe, quiet, Senior Sales IN CERAMIC 2K PAINT IN CERAMIC 2K PAINT ‘Route One Magazine’ One Magazine’ are a big and serious step on‘Route the together many moreHARD times to fur- comfortable completely EXTRA WEARING EXTRA HARD and WEARING road to a truly green Pécs. The ther develop public transport in emissions-free.” www.byd.com leadership of Pécs is committed Pécs in a sustainable way.”

LOW COST

QUALITY RESPRAYS QUALITY RESPRAYS

www

For all you contact the r

STEEL BUILDINGS

Tel: 01733 4057 T Email: sal

STEEL BUILDINGS

BLUELINE BUILDINGS BLUELINE BUILDINGS BLUELINE BUILDINGS

TRAINING

Cost

Cost Cost Effective Effective Effective Workshops/Garaging/Storage Steel Workshops/ Garaging/ Workshops/ Steel Buildings Garaging/ SteelBuildings Buildings Solutions Will never rust from 20ft up to 70ft Solutions Storage WidthsSolutions from 20ft up to Widths Widths from 20ft up to Storage Buildings to BS5950 Unlimited lengths Will never rust Buildings to BS5950

70ft Will never rust Buildings to BS5950 Unlimited lengths

70ft Unlimited lengths

TEL: 01709 578333 24 HOURS

Tel: 01709 Tel: 578333 24 Hours 01709 578333 24 Hours

August 2020

green VDL Bus & Coach supplying De Lijn with 70 plug-in hybrid buses

VDL is supplying 70 Citeas SLFA-180 plug-in hybrid buses to De Lijn in the second half of 2021 which will operate at various locations in Flanders. The aim is to offer electric transport in all 13 central cities by 2025, with priority given to the low emission zones of Brussels and Antwerp. The order is part of a framework agreement for the purchase of 400 buses that was awarded to VDL last year. “Hybrid buses are a big step forward in the greening of public transport,” says Roger Kesteloot, director-general, De Lijn. “The order for these 70 hybrid buses fits in with our plans to speed

up the greening and rejuvenation of the bus fleet. This is necessary because we want to be operating fully electric in all central cities by 2025.” The new order follows an earlier one for 200 hybrids at the end of 2019. A total of 270 new hybrid buses are expected between 2020 and 2022. Filip Malefason, director, VDL Bus & Coach Belgium, adds: “De Lijn has already ordered a total of 890 vehicles from VDL Bus & Coach since 2014. With this order, the share of electrically-powered buses is growing steadily and Flanders is becoming increasingly greener.” The hybrid articulated Low

Floor Citea has the same electric powertrain as the Citea Electric and can be used as a full electric bus in city centres and low emission zones. De Lijn has opted for a high battery capacity so that the buses with fully charged batteries can run fully electrically over distances of up to 30km. The hybrid buses are supported by a generator that can recharge the batteries, and in addition, it can be charged via a CCS Combo2 charging plug. In the future, the electrical autonomy of hybrid buses can be further increased by extending them with a fast charging option. www.vdlbuscoach.com

@transportdoor facebook.com/transportdoorsolutions

Your BEST option for Bus Door Parts and Maintenance Requirements OVER 7,000 CATALOGUED PARTS

Specialist bus door parts supplier based in the UK (over 1,500 satisfied customers) T: 01787 473000 E: sales@transportdoorsolutions.co.uk

w w w.transpor tdoorsolutions.co.uk

August 2020

green

OUR PICK OF THE LATEST ENVIRONMENTAL DEVELOPMENTS IN THE BUS AND COACH SECTOR

First new cameras in place in readiness for extension of London’s ULEZ

THE first new cameras have been installed for London’s Ultra Low Emission Zone as TfL prepares to expand it from the Congestion Charge Zone out to the North Circular and South Circular in October 2021. Tf L says that thousands of deaths in the capital each year are attributed to poor air quality, with emerging evidence suggesting a link between pollution, higher rates of infection and a worse recovery from coronavirus. The ULEZ schemes will reduce nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions from road transport by around 30 per cent across the whole city.

Cameras are essential to making the ULEZ effective. The central zone has seen the number of vehicles meeting the emission standards rise from 39 per cent in February 2017 to more than 80 per cent now complying, contributing to a 44 per cent reduction in roadside nitrogen dioxide within its boundaries. The area covered by the existing Congestion Charge and ULEZ has around 650 cameras. The new zone will be 18 times the size, but new technology means only around 750 additional cameras will need to be installed, according to TfL. Shirley Rodrigues, deputy

mayor for the environment, says: “The Ultra Low Emission Zone is the centrepiece of our plans to clean up London’s air. We have the boldest plans of any city on the planet and the ULEZ is exceeding expectations, helping reduce harmful roadside nitrogen dioxide by 44 per cent in central London. “As London starts to recover from the pandemic, City Hall is even more determined to stop Londoners breathing air so filthy it is damaging our children’s lungs and causing thousands of premature deaths.” www.tfl.gov.uk

August 2020

green New Stockholm contract for Keolis Sverige KEOLIS Sverige has won a fouryear contract extension worth €500million from August 2022 for the operation and maintenance of 335 fossil-free buses which will serve the centre of Stockholm and Lidingö island

northeast of the city. Under the new contract, 15 new electric buses will complete the existing fleet from August 2022, enabling the PTA to roll-out its electrification strategy. The 361km network features

41 lines, 400 bus stations, three depots and carries 80 million passengers annually. A new depot charging system for the e-buses is included and 1,400 Keolis staff will operate the network. www.keolis.com

New Hitachi ABB grid-to-plug EV charging system HITACHI ABB Power Grids has launched a new grid-to-plug EV charging system, Grid-eMotion, that it says offers a step-change approach for public transport operators. The new solution enables operators to efficiently scale up operations. The company has been active in EV charging solutions since 2013, when it introduced flashcharging eBus solutions in

Geneva and Nantes. Through close collaboration with operators, Hitachi ABB Power Grids says it has now identified a market need for a more holistic approach to large-scale charging. “The Grid-eMotion Fleet launch is a game-changer for anyone managing public transport and commercial EV fleets,” says Niklas Persson, managing director, Grid Integration business unit,

Hitachi ABB Power Grids. “GrideMotion Fleet delivers unprecedented scalability, space savings and operational efficiency. The solution will accelerate the global uptake of safe, sustainable and smart mobility, whilst contributing to cleaner air and an enhanced quality of life for today’s generation and those to come.” www.hitachi-powergrids.com

COPING WITH COVID? • Governance & Corporate Arrangements • Operator Licence Changes • Strategic Development • HR Support & Advice

www.beverleybellconsulting.com 07985 700 017 August 2020

info@beverleybellconsulting.com

international

Bus and coach news from around the world

Marcopolo BioSafe buses delivered to Angola MARCOPOLO’S biosafety solutions are being increasingly adopted, including by customers in the international market. Angola is the first country in Africa to receive buses from the Brazilian manufacturer, equipped with protection barriers for Marcopolo BioSafe drivers and fare collectors, with a delivery of 130 vehicles through importer Asperbras. “This is the first Marcopolo BioSafe Solutions deal closed for the African market, which demonstrates that the new standards of safety, well-being and health of

passengers and users are here to stay”, says André Armaganijan, Marcopolo director of strategies and international business. The 130 Marcopolo Torino buses are based on a Volkswagen chassis, and are 10.5m long and equipped with 29 seats. Over the past three years, Marcopolo and Asperbras´ partnership has delivered more than 600 units to the Angolan market. The export of Torinos for Angola represents the third batch of vehicles with Marcopolo BioSafe Solutions. The first were in Argen-

tina in June with the delivery of a Paradiso 1800 double-deck with a restroom with ultraviolet light for disinfecting the environment, antibacterial curtains, antibacterial covers on the seats and devices with hand sanitisers on the access doors of the lower floor as well as the top floor. The second was in early July, for the Chilean operator Andimar which purchased 13 Paradiso G7 1800 double-deck buses with a restroom that includes UV-C light for disinfection and antimicrobial curtains. www.marcopolo.br

Busworld India postponed until 2022

THE organisers of Busworld India - Busworld and Messe Frankfurt Trade Fairs India - have decided to cancel the planned Busworld India event this autumn following consultation with stakeholders. In order to keep the industry updated, the organisers will con-

tinue to host a series of virtual webinars and interactive events ahead of the next event in India, now planned for 2022. Busworld India 2020 was due to take place on 6-8 October at the Bangalore International Exhibition Centre in Bengaluru, but is

now re-scheduled until 2022. The organisers have confirmed that the dates for the next edition of the trade fair are currently under discussion and will be announced in the coming months. www.busworld.org

August 2020

The latest products and services for the bus and coach sector

technology

Lucketts develops new integrations with compliance software

LUCKETTS Travel, now owned by National Express, has been using TruTac compliance control software for more than ten years and recently, the TruLinks API suite has enabled the company to automatically integrate verified vehicle and driver tachograph data direct into other systems. An example is vehicle distance data being used for planning maintenance schedules, fuel usage and vehicle utilisation. TruLinks allows Lucketts to access key data and removes the need for manual intervention or data duplication.

With 160 coaches operating throughout Europe on day-trips, holiday breaks and corporate services, Lucketts was presented with the challenge of keeping tabs on every journey distance and start/ stop time – not only to monitor drivers’ working hours for payroll purposes but also to keep in line with EU drivers hours regulations. “Like any operation of our size and type, there is a host of data to be gathered, analysed and acted upon,” says Lucketts’ Tony Lawman. “Using TruControl software, including the TruLinks mod-

ule, this is all made possible. For example, we integrate all vehicle and driver information into our vehicle management system to monitor each driver’s hours and calculate their wages.” In addition, for enhanced control over driver and vehicle activities and as part of the TruControl analysis and reporting system, an Unknown Drivers Report feature enables vehicle operators to set a distance and time, so they can see ‘unknown’ drivers who fall within those parameters.

www.trutac.co.uk

SmartVision replaces wing mirrors at Go Ahead London 21ST Century Technology has supplied and installed the SmartVision system on more than 100 vehicles at five Go Ahead depots, including 62 as part of a continuous innovation programme at Northumberland Park as electric vehicles replace diesel. The Sma r tVision Ca mera Monitoring System improves the driver’s view, using high-definition cameras instead of mirrors to help reduce incidents and accidents, and lowers the lifetime running costs of the vehicle. It not only removes blind spots but also reduces the collision risk between August 2020

mirrors and road users, street furniture and trees. “I have been impressed with version 2 of SmartVision, which provides drivers with a digital overlay to give them context as to the position of the bus through the enhanced view in the monitors on both sides,” says Richard Harrington, engineering director, Go Ahead London. SmartVision provides the driver with enhanced views compared to standard wing mirrors, according to 21st Century Technology. Cameras adjust automatically to maintain image quality in all lighting

conditions, removing glare from the sun during the day and from headlights at night. The Go Ahead buses have the cameras mounted externally within low-profile, weatherproof housings. The cameras deliver images to high resolution in-cab mounted monitors, which provide Class II and Class IV wide-angle views via a split screen display. SmartVision was developed in readiness for TfL’s Vision Zero action plan, which aims to remove all deaths and serious injuries from London’s network by 2041. www.21stplc.com

technology

The latest products and services for the bus and coach sector

Travelstar European switches to TruTac for improved control

TR AVELSTAR European has switched to TruTac’s compliance control software for improved reliability and tighter control, particularly regarding potential European tour-driver infringements. Formed in 2005 the Walsall-based family business operates throughout the UK and Europe. Operations manager Craig Jackson says the company needed a system which could provide realtime monitoring and checking of each driver and the vehicle in their charge. “For example, with the ’12 day rule’ whereby coach drivers on an international trip can take their weekly rest after 12 consecutive 24-hour periods, we needed to know ahead of time when any individual might be at risk of exceeding their limit so we could avoid triggering an infringement,”

says Jackson. “The system was developed by TruTac in partnership with the CPT so it’s borne from real operator and regulatory requirements, plus it’s intuitive and simple to use. “We can monitor any vehicle and driver at any time, with the knowledge that all data is secure and instantly retrievable – with auto email reporting – should we need it for any random inspections.” TruTac’s CPT Tacho Analysis software provides automatic digital reporting of all key information including mixed EU and domestic drivers’ hours and is fully WTDcompliant. In addition, TruTac’s CPT Licence Check module enables Travelstar to carry out online verification checks on UK driving licences and CPC information,

and Daily Checks software makes it easy for drivers to carry out inspections and send photographs and detailed notes regarding any faults or recommended actions. The system complies with all regulations and DVSA guidance on inspections and service maintenance records. Advisory and failed checks are highlighted and reported for comprehensive defect and maintenance audit records, while all checks and reports can be downloaded in various formats for detailed KPI analysis. Travelstar works with some of the largest tour operators within the UK, as well as smaller individual businesses, conducting tours across Europe, and also operates services on behalf of National Express. www.trutac.co.uk

New Covid safety range from AS Mobile Solutions SPECIALIST supplier of AV and CCTV systems for buses and coaches, AS Mobile Solutions, has diversified its offering with a new range of Covid-related safety products. The company has worked with its suppliers to provide the latest technology and PPE equipment to help operators who are re-

starting services. The range includes facemasks which come in a standard design, or bespoke with a company logo; disinfection fogging machines, and X-mist ‘ultimate’ disinfectant. The company’s Funtoro system for coaches can also been enhanced to include smart tem-

perat u re detec t ion systems including touchless temperature measurement, AI face-recognition and facial mask detection. Touchless disinfection spray dispensers for hand rails and entrance doors are also available. 01274 688990 www.autosound.co.uk

August 2020

A Daimler Brand

Manufacturer expertise. Service you can rely on.

Always by your side.

Provider: EvoBus (UK) Ltd. Ashcroft Way, Cross Point Business Park, Coventry CV2 2TU