Australasian Bus & Coach 401 January 2021 by Prime Group

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HYBRID THEORY SCANIA OFFERS OPERATORS PRAGMATIC E-BUS TRANSITION

in focus: go west fleet operator: glenorie coaches, nsw driven: westbus volvo

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contents ISSUE 401 JANUARY 2021

08 in the know

20. obituary | michael apps

6. editorial | ignition Although it’s been a happy new year for some, for others not so. Editor Cotter chews the fat about all sorts in 2021.

Bus and truck industry stalwart and Bus Industry Confederation executive director Michael Apps sadly passed away on December 26, 2020, after a long battle with cancer. :(

8. news | the front line We’ve gathered up all the key, hardhitting Australasian and international bus and coach news for you, to keep you in the loop.

22. In focus | cdc volvo hybrids

VALE: MICHAEL APPS

in focus

Committing to zero bus emissions in designated ‘zones’, Volvo Bus Australia and ComfortDelGro Australia have introduced ‘zone management’ technology, which will be ultimately rolled out across Victoria and elsewhere nationwide. 24. In focus | moscow e-bus

BUS ZONE-MANAGEMENT TECH INTRODUCED INTO VICTORIA

MOSCOW WELCOMES ITS 600TH E-BUS Moscow Transport starts 2021 welcoming its 600th e-bus for the capital city, maintaining its leading position in Europe while introducing a local solution for converting regular modern buses to electric. 26. In focus | go west

GO WEST EMBRACES NEW BUS FLEET MANAGEMENT Western Australian bus operator Go West Tours has implemented ‘next generation fleet management technology’ to fine-tune operations, with a successful rollout and adaptation by its drivers, the company reports.

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EDITORIAL

Editor: Fabian Cotter ph: 0451 194 600 e-mail: Fabian.Cotter@aremedia.com.au Technical Writer: Paul Aldridge Contributor: Anjali Behl

PRODUCTION

Production Co-Ordinator: Cat Fitzpatrick Art Director: Bea Barthelson

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EXECUTIVE GROUP

36. overstory | scania hybrid

MULTIPLE CHOICE

In the push for workable and pragmatic electro-mobility options in the bus world, manufacturers globally have had to assess product portfolios for various international markets. In Australia, at least – and perhaps more so after 2020’s insanity – is hybrid tech best placed to find its feet? Fabian Cotter reports. 42. operator | glenorie coaches

LIGHT IN THE DARK

Two hard-working blokes from different segments of the bus and coach market have come together to give a new lease of life to an MAN double-decker. With Covid hitting the industry hard, having the time to spruce up this piece of history has been a positive outcome for owner Glenorie Coaches and refurbisher Coachcare. Anjali Behl writes. 48. driven | volvo b10m mark 1

RETRO RECALL

Westbus’ Volvo B10Ms were an iconic site on the roads of the western suburbs

of 1980s Sydney and their spirit lives on in a beautifully restored Mark 1. Built to last, you can see the 50th B10M that Westbus bought for yourself at the Sydney Bus Museum, and it still runs like a charm. Paul Aldridge got behind the wheel and had a great time driving down memory lane.

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There’s hundreds of great vehicles and services listed here from some of the leading bus and coach companies on the planet. Have a look around and see what you might find in there!

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62. factory facts | bus deliveries

DISTRIBUTION Distribution within Australia and New Zealand and beyond by paid subscription to the owners and managers of: • route buses • government bus operations • school buses • extended and day tour operations • express coaches • country and charter operations • bus and coach manufacturers • equipment suppliers • tourism attractions • railways management Notice: All material published in this magazine is published in good faith and every care is taken to accurately relay information provided to us. Readers are advised by the publishers to ensure that all necessary devices and precautions are installed and safe working procedures adopted before the use of any equipment found or purchased through the information we provide. Further all performance criteria was provided by the representative company concerned and any dispute should be referred to them. No material may be reproduced in part or in whole without written consent from the copyright holder.

MONTHLY RESULTS We know you love them and so we have the latest bus and coach supplier sales data collected and recorded for you to sink your teeth into. To know who is who and who’s done what simply check it out!

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IGNITION

FABIAN COTTER

Always look on the bright side of life A tumultuous month it’s been, but one that is easily put into perspective. Let’s keep those chins up. If possible.

iffed, I was. Quite peeved, in fact, at this chap at school who accused me of talking nonsense all the time, saying it very fast and I was twisting stuff around really quickly in the moment. I recall the expression used was something like ‘covering my ass’. Playground expletives in response would not be needed, however, as he said: ‘Mate, you should do debating!’ And so I did for the last two years of my higher education – and as it meant my team and I would get to mingle with rival private school girls I figured, you know, what the hey? A justifiable strategy, no doubt, being a chubby kid meant the sports girls were just not up for conversations with a decent computer geek like me. However, there was a brilliant epiphany for me because instead of foolishly wasting energy for virtually no social gain, why not take a punt at the excruciatingly brilliant and perhaps equally nerdy girls who could at least proffer far more positive insults? Anyway … the whole ‘talking loud but saying nothing’ shtick wasn’t going too badly, taking us to the final against a team we had beaten earlier in the year, but to which our karma chicken would come to roost, like an escapee battery hen angry upon finding out about true ‘free range’. We should have had it. The topic was simple. The logic? Even more so, but somehow – we lost. However, despite the loss, I firmly believe that MAN IS MASTER OF HIS FATE. There is much that has happened to us all on this planet over the past year or so, which may well make us feel that we are not ‘masters of our fate’. Day-to-day changes in restrictions, upheaval and changing work practices means it’s easy to just feel like a puppet on a string. Yet, that ability to see, think and believe – let alone actioning it – that you can change your stars, that you are master of your fate, is where one of the most powerful, invaluable, ‘unquashable’ things on this beloved Earth resides: hope!

MUCH HAS HAPPENED In theory, it was only last month I was writing an editorial like this calling for peace 6

and ‘serenity now’, Frank Costanza style, wishing everyone the best as we headed into the Christmas break. Perhaps wishing no ill will or bad times for anyone until AFTER New Year’s Day was too ambitious and highly presumptuous, but alas – it seems it was. The mid-December cluster of Covid cases threw things into disarray not only for those in the Northern Beaches of Sydney, but everybody else as well. Then cases popped up other states, hard borders went up again, toilet paper panic set in and families were seemingly stranded while interstate on much needed holidays. The impact of such was a stark reminder of the way we live right now and, indeed, has an impact on our coach sector, which in part was relying on a drama-free end-of-year break to keep their businesses ticking over. As one operator explained to me, if these knee-jerk reactions keep happening then it will be even harder for us to accept travel bookings and honour them. Things seem out of our control. Add in x-amount of people saying the vaccines are good, plus those now taking about the deaths from them (kind if defeats the purpose, right? But who knows?) and it’s completely understandable to feel down and stressed. Don’t be. You are not alone. Reach out to others and talk about it. Be it family or friends or a call to professional help. Remember, there’s always someone who needs to talk and always someone that’d be great at listening to them – and vice versa. And that’s all of us. Embrace it.

SPEAKING OF WHICH… It was with heavy heart we received and disseminated news of the recent passing of bus and truck industry stalwart Michael Apps, after a long battle with cancer. Aside from Michael being a valued columnist of ABC magazine, in his role as executive director of the BIC he did amazing work for the bus industry as a whole, in tasks often not fully known about. Our deepest sympathies to his partner Madonna and all those who knew him. Godspeed.

INSIDE THIS ISSUE Now, it may look like there was a conscious effort to have a certain theme running this issue’s mix, but alas the guilt from pretending that were the case would be an unbearable burden for a wretch such as I, so I must confess: there was none. It’s hard to believe hybrid buses were all the rage in Europe for a bit about 10 years ago, and still have applications running, but in the past few years they seem to be possibly finding a really good space in the Australian bus market for those operators cautiously monitoring the whole e-bus/e-mobility game. On our cover this month are some Scania hybrids that recently went to Ventura in Victoria and also the first two of seven heading into South Oz with runs on the famed Adelaide O-Bahn on the cards – post trial (p.36). Scania, like Volvo, which has just introduced new ‘zone management’ on its buses for CDC Victoria (p.22), seems to be doing a good job of championing the hybrid cause – especially in light of the overwhelming fully electric push. And after what 2020 been like and looking into 2021, a short-term cautious option for some operators might just be on the money. We’ll see. Also inside we check out a cool ‘refurbed’ ex-Australia Zoo double-decker run now by Glenorie Coaches in Sydney, which has used some pandemic downtime to let Coachcare give it a good spit and polish (on p.42) Following this, we test drive a 1984 Volvo B10M that was the 50th of its kind purchased by Westbus, and which now resides at the Sydney Bus Museum (p.48), while also kicking off Volvo Bus Australia’s 50th anniversary here, too ( p.28). Plus some good-ish news in deliveries for December, 2020 – we’re up! Not masses, but in the grand scheme of things – it’s masses. But seriously folks, it’s definitely a positive sign and let’s just leave it at that. Because the last time I asked for something to stay positive on this page, well … not good. ;) Until the next thrilling instalment...

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NEWS

ACT GOVT E-BUS ‘MARKET SOUNDING’: 90 BUSES SOUGHT IN ITS ENDEAVOUR to kick-start its Zero-Emission Transition Plan for Transport Canberra, a ‘market sounding’ for 90 zero-emission battery electric buses – as well as associated operating requirements such as charging infrastructure, maintenance and energy supply – has commenced, the ACT government has announced. Minister for Transport and City Services, Chris Steel says the ACT government is exploring opportunities to partner with providers on this transformation of the ACT’s bus fleet and is keen to hear from all parts of industry to inform the future procurement of the 90 battery electric buses in mid-2021. “Transport is the ACT[’s] largest source of emissions, and we are getting on with our plan of replacing every diesel and compressed natural gas bus in Transport Canberra’s fleet with modern, zero-emission

buses,” Minister Steel said. “The ACT government released the Transport Canberra’s Zero Emissions Transition Plan in September and now we are preparing to procure the first tranche of 90 battery electric buses, with the commencement of a market sounding,” he explained. The first of the 90 buses are expected to commence operation in the 2021–22 financial year, with the last to be delivered no later than 2024, the government explains. “The ACT government wants to hear from everyone who would like to be involved in delivering the zero-emissions transition – from bus manufacturers, energy providers, electric bus charging station companies to the broader construction industry,” said Minister Steel. “This market sounding will inform the design of the final procurement approach to deliver a successful

transition based on Transport Canberra’s Zero Emissions Transition Plan and Transport Canberra’s specific operational needs,” he said.

GETTING INVOLVED

Above: Minister Steel said the ACT government wanted “...to hear from everyone who would like to be involved in delivering the zero-emissions transition”. Below: The old Renault bus fleet is looking to be replaced with emissionfree electric alternatives.

According to the ACT government, interested parties can register through the Tenders ACT or Transport Canberra websites, so they can keep informed and involved in the upcoming industry briefing process and formal market soundings. “This process is not just about delivering 90 battery electric buses. We are seeking innovative solutions to how we house and support, charge and maintain the fleet, as well as how we can partner with energy providers that will make the transition successful in the ACT,” said Minister Steel. “The market sounding is the next step in achieving our target of a zero-emission public transport

“The market sounding is the next step in achieving our target of a zeroemission public transport system by 2040 or earlier.” 8

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system by 2040 or earlier, and providing clean, quiet and reliable bus services across Transport Canberra’s Network.”

SHORT-TERM DIESELS As part of the government’s Zero-Emission Transition plan it has also announced that a tender will be released early 2021 to lease 34 replacement buses, in order to retire the remaining orange Renault PR100 series buses pre-dating emissions standards and are not Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) compliant. The tender to replace the 34 buses will encourage approaches from providers of both battery electric and diesel buses that meet Transport Canberra’s short-term operational requirements and the objectives of Transport Canberra’s Zero Emissions Transition Plan, it states. “The old orange Renault buses have served Canberra well, but their black diesel fumes and out-dated and inaccessible design will not be missed,” Minister Steel said. “The tender for these leased buses will be an open market process, available to all respondents including electric bus providers, to meet our short term operational needs, before our fleet of Transport Canberra electric buses is operational.” “When the 34 replacement buses enter service in the second half of 2021, every bus in the Transport Canberra fleet will comply with Disability Discrimination Act standards and be wheelchair and pram accessible,” Minister Steel said.

MAKING CONTACT Registrations for interested parties in the first tranche procurement of 90 electric buses can now be made online on the Tenders ACT website, or via the Transport Canberra website. Implementing a pathway for zero emissions public transport is a Parliamentary and Governing Agreement item and the commitment to purchase 90 electric buses is an ACT Labor election commitment, it states.

COACHWORKS SOLD TO ROYANS AUSTRALASIA’S LARGEST transport accident-repair specialist Royans has announced the acquisition of Brisbane-based bus and coach specialist Coachworks, recently. With more than 30 years in the business, Coachworks is an industry leader specialising in the repair and refurbishment of buses and coaches, with services including: accident repairs, refurbishment, retrofitting, refinishing, mini bus conversions and spare parts sales, it states. Coachworks’ Scott Isaacs will continue to manage the business and customers can expect to receive the same personal local service from the whole Coachworks team, Royans confirms. Coachworks is located in Acacia Ridge, Queensland, and now provides new owner Royans with a second Brisbane metro location just 20 minutes away from its Wacol branch, it says. This now provides customers with three specialised workshops in Brisbane following the recent construction of a dedicated light/medium truck repair workshop at the Wacol site, in addition to the existing large truck and trailer accident repair workshop, Royans states. Coachworks occupies 3,500 square metres of workshop including three spray booths and a smaller parts booth that make up the paint shop; there are three additional workspaces equipped to specialise in accident repairs and refurbishment; manufacturing and mini bus conversions; and retrofitting and project works as required by the

industry. The capability of the business is underpinned by the 55 staff members covering many trades and years of experience specifically in the bus and coach industry, Royans confirms.

EXCITING EXPANSION Commenting on the acquisition, Royans CEO David Church, said: “The partnership with Coachworks is really exciting for Royans as we expand our service offering further into buses and coaches. “We have long-term experience with bus and coach accident repairs throughout our network, and we can now build on that with the expertise Scott and the Coachworks team bring to Royans. “We look forward to working with Scott and the team and using this combined knowledge and experience to continue to provide a premium service offering to our customers.” Church added: “At Royans everything we do is designed to get our customers back on the road fast. The addition of specialised workshops like Coachworks into our network, not only expands our footprint, but adds to the specialised skillset of our workforce. “This – along with the most experienced staff in the business and the latest in equipment, systems and processes ensures we can deliver quality repairs with minimal downtime to our customers.” Above: Coachworks is located in Acacia Ridge, Queensland, and now provides new owner Royans with a second Brisbane metro location.

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NEWS

originated from the Vysoké Mýto plant that Iveco Bus is highlighting during its milestone. These are:

ŠKODA 706 RTO

IVECO BUS CELEBRATES 125-YEAR PRODUCTION AS THE LARGEST bus manufacturing plant in Europe, the Vysoké Mýto Iveco Bus facility – located 180km east of the Czech Republic capital city Prague – has celebrated its 125-year anniversary of production, the company announced recently. Home to local iconic companies Sodomka and Karosa, the Iveco Vysoke Myto plant has a long-lasting tradition of producing intercity buses and coaches since foundation 125 years ago, the company explains. With more than 3,800 employees, plus 1,700 subcontractors, it is one of

the largest employers in the Czech Republic and Eastern Europe, and Europe’s largest bus manufacturer, with more than 4,000 vehicles made per year, Iveco confirms. This 125th anniversary is, above all, an opportunity to highlight the constant innovations achieved by Josef Sodomka Jr. and his successors, Iveco explains. Original technical solutions have become the basis for the launch of new bus model ranges, many of which have been world-renowned and welcomed passengers for decades, it adds. There are five key models that

Although the first bus left the local factory in 1928, the production of buses did not start in full force until the 1950s. At that time, the main program of the Vysoké Mýto plant became the production of the Škoda 706 RO models developed in Mladá Boleslav, Iveco says. Since 1956 it has been followed by the Škoda 706 RTO model, one of the design symbols of Czechoslovakia in the 1960s. In 1960 the Karosa plant made the first articulated bus in Czechoslovakia. During series manufacturing until 1971, 14,969 buses were made in the design for urban, intercity and long-distance transport, it says.

KAROSA Š 11 From 1965 the production of Š 11 series buses gradually kept developing in Karosa, Iveco states. The outstanding feature resulting from the fact that the whole vehicle consisted of six main prefabricated panels boosted this product up to the leading position on a global scale, it confirms. In total the plant made 26,769 Š 11 buses.

KAROSA 700 The successful and popular ‘ŠMs’ were

AUSTRALIAN BUS CORP REBRANDED TO BUSTECH GROUP

The rebrand solidifies the company’s stance as an industry leader in the future of Australian mass mobility solutions, according to the Bustech Group.

IN A MOVE that seems as inevitable and logical as it does practical, the ‘working title’ Australian Bus Corporation – representing the conglomeration that was Bustech, Precision Buses and Elphinstone – has been rebranded more succinctly as ‘Bustech Group’, the company has announced. Touted as a major rebrand “to become one integrated mobility

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replaced by the new 700 range, in the production of which a panel construction system was also used, says Iveco. However, the innovation consisted of moving the engine and transmission behind the rear axle. From the beginning of series production in 1981 until its end in 1999, a total of 37,166 of all types of vehicles in this range left the plant gates, Iveco says.

KAROSA 900 After the privatisation of the company in 1993, Karosa started the development of a new product range 900. The most important Récréo model was the first bus to have a significant impact on Western markets, especially in France, Germany and Italy, says Iveco. Thanks to the relevant penetration of the 900 series into new markets, the production of these buses tripled between 1995 and 2006. A total of 13,071 buses were manufactured, almost half of which were exported to France.

with more than 45,000 units sold, Iveco explains. The vehicles designed for urban or intercity transport have a built-in six-cylinder Iveco engine, together with a ZF or Voith gearbox. The majority of these vehicles from Vysoké Mýto are exported into mostly European countries, but it is also successfully exported into Africa, Iveco says.

THE CROSSWAY The start of production of the Crossway range dates to 2006, which has gradually become the most successful intercity bus

brand” and “building on its successful foundation as Australia’s leading independent bus manufacturer”, the Bustech Group rebrands with “a renewed promise to deliver innovative mobility solutions enabled by technology to drive the future of mass mobility in Australia,” it states. Coinciding with the unveiling of the new brand, Bustech Group launched a new logo and an updated corporate website (www.bustechgroup.com.au) focused on designing, building and delivering market-leading mobility solutions tailored to the needs of its customers, the group states. The rebrand solidifies the company’s stance as an industry leader in the future of Australian mass mobility solutions, it adds. “The Bustech Group rebrand

Pictured: This 125th anniversary is, above all, an opportunity to highlight the constant innovations achieved by Josef Sodomka Jr. and his successors, Iveco explains.

reinforces our vision to fuse new transport technologies with our unrivalled bus experience to create innovative mass transit solutions,” said Christian Reynolds, ex-Tesla executive and chairman of the new Bustech Group. “Harmonising the two brands will strengthen our capacity to meet market demand and execute on our technology and innovation roadmap. “The rebrand also represents the evolution of Bustech Group as a leader in the next generation of connected transit and reaffirms our core ethos of producing innovative transit solutions to better serve our customers,” Reynolds said.

ABOUT BUSTECH GROUP Bustech Group is an Australian bus

group designed for a connected world – delivering integrated, low-emission mass mobility solutions enabled by technology, it explains. Its buses are designed, built and manufactured in Australia to the specific needs of its customers, it says. With an emphasis on sovereign capacity and mutually beneficial local supplier partnerships, the Bustech Group operates a micro-factory model driving local economic growth whilst reducing its environmental footprint, the company states. “We believe the future of mass transit is a connected ecosystem with buses at the heart - and we are committed to enabling the next generation of connected transit,” it stated.

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NEWS

uses radar technology and can perform an emergency braking in the event of a potential collision without input from the driver, it adds. They also have the Lane Assistant system, which uses a camera to detect if the bus is inadvertently leaving its lane and warns the driver with a vibration alert. The alert is not triggered if the indicator is engaged or below 70km/h, MB clarifies. The buses also feature an electronic stability program, which can reduce the risk of skidding during cornering, or during evasive manoeuvres by braking individual wheels to maintain control.

ADVANCED SAFETY KEY TO V/LINE PURCHASE TWO NEW Mercedes-Benz chassis with BCI bodies have received ‘the thumbs-up’ on V/Line runs in the return Melbourne to Mildura and Swan Hill areas, according to Swan Hill Bus Lines (SHBL), in Victoria. The family bus company added two new three-axle MB Euro 6 OC500RF based coaches with BCI ‘Cruiser’ bodies to its V/Line service for the long country runs. Owned by husband and wife Peter and Sue Pickering and operated by a very experienced team that includes their children Emma and Lachlan, Peter says they are very happy with them and that: “They are extremely quiet and comfortable. “Most importantly, they are fitted with the most advanced safety features like advanced emergency braking and a lane departure warning system, and keeping our passengers and the community safe is paramount for Swan Hill Bus Lines.” Swan Hill Bus Lines (aka BusBiz.net.au) is also expecting the buses to deliver when it comes to durability given the performance of existing Mercedes-Benz buses with BCI bodies on its fleet, the company states. Pickering points to the example of a group of 0500RF coaches with BCI bodies operating for TrainLink in New South Wales. “They have each done 800,000km 12

in three years and stood up to it really well,” Pickering said. “We are confident that the combination of the OC500RF chassis and BCI delivers the comfort and durability that we rely on.”

NATURALLY EFFICIENT The two new V/Line coaches feature the 10.7-litre six-cylinder engine that meets strict Euro 6 emission standards while also saving fuel, says MB. Pickering is pleased with the initial fuel economy results, which are showing a 5 per cent saving over the Euro 5 coaches in the fleet, he confirms. The new engines, which are paired to the smooth-shifting six-speed Mercedes-Benz eight-speed Automated Manual Transmission, are naturally efficient, but Mercedes-Benz also provides driver training free of charge for each new vehicle purchase, to help drivers really maximise the efficiency of the vehicle, MD adds. Euro 6 standards also require the engines to meet tough noise standards and Pickering says they are extremely quiet. The three-axle models are 14.5m meters long and feature steerable tag axles at the rear for a tight turning circle, MD confirms. The V/Line models feature the latest safety technology available, including advanced emergency braking, which

Above, Below: Initial fuelefficiency results show a 5 per cent saving over the Euro 5 coaches in the fleet, confirms Swan Hill Bus Lines’ Peter Pickering.

SCHEDULED SERVICES Mercedes-Benz says it also offers a range of flexible purchase options including flexible finance and leasing terms from 12 months up to 10 years, fixed interest rates, no ongoing monthly fees and structured payments with tailored repayments to suit the customer’s cash flow. The company’s service plans allow for customers to plan for service and maintenance costs up front and maximise the residual value of the bus at the end of the ownership period. This includes scheduled services and maintenance to help keep the vehicle in good running condition, it explains. Also available to bus and coach customers is Mercedes-Benz Telematics, which provides customer fleets with an overview of vehicle performance and enables the Mercedes-Benz team to work with customers to identify areas for improvement to ensure overall maximum efficiencies are realised, it adds.

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SCHEME LAUNCHED FOR LONG-TERM UNEMPLOYED AN INNOVATIVE multi-partner-backed bus driver training scheme is helping 16 new potential drivers enter the industry, addressing their long-term unemployed status in the process. Not-for-profit organisation Youth Activating Youth (YAY) is creating job opportunities during the pandemic for the 16 long-term unemployed Victorians to become bus drivers via its new Journey Maker Employment Program in January 2020, in a partnership with the Victorian government, Transdev and Australia Industry Group. The aim was always to create ongoing job opportunities for community members experiencing long-term unemployment; however, within weeks the program was forced to rethink its delivery strategy due to COVID-19 restrictions, which meant no physical contact with community members, Transdev explains. “The aim of the Journey Maker Employment Program is to help disadvantaged members of our community experiencing long-term unemployment to re-connect with the workforce,” said Ahmed Hassan, executive director, Youth Activating Youth. “With Victorians facing a lengthy period of economic uncertainty due to the pandemic, it made it even more critical that we were able to provide access to retraining and up-skilling into sectors with job opportunities,” he said.

on resume writing, interview preparation, and mock recorded and face-to-face interview training. Following a thorough recruitment process, 16 applicants aged between 25–54 years were chosen to fill the 16 driver positions. Each applicant completed extensive on-road training for their role with a VicRoads accredited heavy vehicle training and assessment provider before completing Transdev-specific training and induction with the support of Transdev’s dedicated training team, the operator states.

SHAPING JOURNEYS “At Transdev, we define ourselves not by our roles or job functions but rather by the aim of being Journey Makers, a title which acknowledges the impact that each one of our 5,800 employees across Australia and New Zealand have in helping to shape customers journey[s] and experience on public transport,” said Paul Birch, Transdev chief people and culture officer. Hassan states that companies hiring long-term unemployed have reportedly experienced higher retention rates and greater workforce loyalty, which could be an unexpected competitive edge in an increasingly challenging market. “The Journey Maker Employment Program has helped to show the benefits and positive effects of hiring disadvantaged members of our community and involving them in the workplace, and we look forward to working with more corporations on similar initiatives” said Hassan.

“We are immensely proud to welcome the 16 new recruits into our workplace.” REGISTRATION INTEREST YAY worked with the Victorian state government and mobility provider Transdev to launch the program and offer extensive online interview and careers coaching to assist successful applicants and ensure that they were ready for comprehensive on-road training, Transdev explains. The initiative received more than 180 registrations, with the Youth Activating Youth team providing one-on-one support for each applicant to prepare them for the interview process, while also facilitating online workshops

Above: Matoc Achol is one of the drivers that have joined Transdev as part of the employment program.

BUS & COACH RETROFITTING Whether you’re looking for an extensive remodelling conversion or a necessary retrofit we can transform single vehicles to full fleets, with seating solutions to rest room facilities or air conditioning we have the ability to meet your requirements.

 Seating Arrangements: Luxury coach seating to high capacity school bus solutions.  Wheel Chair Accessibility: Lift & ramp installations, wheel chair restraint systems.  Rest Room Facilities: Basic toilet facilities to luxury wash rooms.  Vehicle Accessories: Bull bars, bumper bar and tow bars.  Electrical & Audio Visual: Safety systems, surveillance, mining & Audio visual upgrades. P: (07) 3344 4544 E: info@coachworks.com.au W: www.coachworks.com.au ABC-QH-5164872-CS-397

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NEWS

they serve. “While we’ve invested significantly to achieve greater diversity across our workforce, there’s always more that we can do across the industry. “Through our recruitment initiatives, we are hoping to attract people who may not [have] ever considered a career in public transport, such as women, school leavers, and those from indigenous backgrounds.”

DRIVER RECRUITMENT

TRANSDEV RECRUITMENT DRIVE RAMPS UP MOBILITY COMPANY Transdev intends to create up to 300 new trainee jobs throughout 2021, with up to 100 of those due to commence by the end of January, the company has announced. As more Aussies start returning to their workplaces and daily routines, Transdev will be undertaking a training and recruitment blitz in the coming months to provide customers with peace of mind when travelling and meet increased demand, it explains. Transdev Australasia chief people and culture officer Paul Birch says a variety of different skills were required within the public transport sector, beyond simply driving a vehicle. “Every day our team of ‘Journey Makers’ provides thousands of Australians with safe, reliable and comfortable journeys on our services, and having a highly skilled workforce is essential,” Birch said. “The opportunities at Transdev are vast and we employ everyone from drivers, mechanics, spray-painters to transport planners, business development managers and cyber-security experts. 14

“In response to the current climate the transport industry is changing rapidly and we are welcoming more people with transferable skills from industries such as customer service, finance and aviation into our workplace,” he said.

INCREASING DIVERSITY Transdev is one of the largest multi-modal providers of public transport in the Pacific region, delivering bus, train, ferry, light rail and on-demand services which, on average, transport more than 137 million passengers each year, it states. Birch says he hopes the move would help to make the transport industry more attractive to more people and increase diversity throughout the sector. “As a business, Transdev is essentially in the people sector; that is, we are a team of people serving people. It is for this reason that having a diverse workforce is critical,” Birch added. “In providing a high standard of customer experience it is important that our ‘journey makers’ reflect and represent the community in which

Above: Warwick Chaseling, a 34-year-old trainee bus driver with Transdev NSW Bus operations under guidance from Transdev bus-driver trainer Stephen Boehme.

As part of Transdev’s new intake of trainees and training for existing employees throughout 2021, one such participant is 34-year-old Warwick Chaseling – an ex-pizza store employee with a hospitality background - and now new to the bus industry as a trainee driver. In terms of how he’s enjoying it, Chaseling says it is a bit of a learning curve going from driving a car to driving a large and expensive vehicle like a bus, but ultimately “…the fundamentals are the same.” “The main driver for changing careers for me was job security – buses and public transport is essential, they are thing that is going to be around for quite some time, which is certainty you just don’t get in other industries,” he explained. “I have been in hospitality for more than 10 years and knew it fairly well and it was time for a change. “There’s a chance for growth and variance in the public transport industry as there are a lot of different career pathways beyond just driving, which I didn’t realise until I’d started. “I really enjoy driving and, coming from a hospitality background, I love interacting with customers. “I am fortunate that the job allows me to combine my love of driving with my passion for customer service,” Chaseling said. “At the moment the majority of my work are split shifts, which is very similar to what I was used to in hospitality. “Unlike in hospitality where you are working during the day, the split shifts I am on means that I have flexibility to do something in the middle of the day – whether it is going to the beach or the gym,” he stated.

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ADL-BYD TO BUILD E-BUSES ‘FULLY’ IN BRITAIN SINGLE AND DOUBLE-DECK e-buses produced via the current Alexander Dennis Limited (ADL) and BYD (UK) partnership for the British domestic market will use BYD chassis “designed and assembled” locally, starting from the second half of 2021, the companies have jointly announced. This significant step has been taken in response to the increasing demand for zero-emission vehicles, they state. It further strengthens the partnership’s market-leading position while underpinning jobs in Britain and developing skills in the growing market for clean vehicle technology, they add. The move will ensure completed vehicles are built in ADL’s facilities in the UK, they say. Electric bus chassis assembly will take place in ADL’s facilities with on-the-ground

support from the BYD team, and is planned to commence in the second half of 2021, the companies confirm. ADL – with its Scottish bus origins dating from 1902 – is now a subsidiary of independent global North American-based bus manufacturer NFI Group Inc. (NFI). China-origin automaker BYD was founded in 1995 is a global leader in cars, buses, trucks, batteries, energy management and electric mobility. Since it began in 2015, the ADL-BYD partnership has gone from strength to strength, with more than 500 electric buses delivered or on order, they state. These have, “…clocked up a combined over 16 million emission-free miles of reliable service in London, as well as numerous towns and cities across the UK.” According to ADL, more than 70 per cent of electric buses introduced in Britain Above: “I am delighted that we’re moving our electric bus partnership to this next level and building complete zero-emission buses for the UK market in the UK,” said ADL president and managing director Paul Davies.

in this period were supplied by the BYD ADL partnership.

THE CHANGE Until now, chassis for the BYD ADL Enviro200EV single deck and BYD ADL Enviro400EV double deck buses were fully built by BYD before being delivered to ADL’s facilities to have their bodywork fitted in the UK, ADL confirms. BYD UK managing director Frank Thorpe: “This news underpins the fantastic relationship we have with ADL in the UK. We have always worked closely to deliver the highest quality products and services, and we are confident that production of complete vehicles here in the UK will bring even greater efficiencies for our customers. “More importantly, this commitment from both BYD and ADL is also a reflection of the acceptance of e-mobility from local authorities, bus operators and their passengers. “Electrification in our towns and cities is gathering pace, and the BYD ADL partnership is spearheading the drive towards a more sustainable future,” he said. ADL president and managing director Paul Davies, said: “I am delighted that we’re moving our electric bus partnership to this next level and building complete zero-emission buses for the UK market in the UK. “This ensures that investment in sustainable transport for our towns and cities delivers full economic benefits to communities right across the country,” he added. busnews.com.au January 2021 ABC

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Left: UK 2019 Bus Awards (L-R): Kieran Proctor, Dave Lambert, Marc Knott, Carol Crichton and Martin White. The silver accolade was for innovation in the New Horizons award for the powerful new features in CrewPLAN – the Omnibus crew optimisation system.

BUSLINES NSW AUTOMATES PROCESSES FOR BUSINESS GROWTH UK PASSENGER TRANSPORT software specialist Omnibus has digitalised Buslines NSW’s scheduling processes to aid the company’s continued expansion, according to the company. Australian bus operator Buslines

operates a fleet of 380 buses, servicing a network of bus routes in major regional towns throughout NSW. The Group’s operations carry more than 10 million customers annually and employs more than 500 staff.

Buslines operates across 13 locations in rural and regional NSW: Berrima, Picton, Ulladulla, Lithgow, Bathurst, Orange, Dubbo, Griffith, Tamworth, Forster, Wingham, Ballina and Northern Rivers. The operator adopted Omnibus scheduling software to replace its previous manual system for creating shifts and rosters. The aim was to digitalise the process to allow for continued growth of the business and build a scheduling capability within Buslines’ existing employees who have long-term operational, planning and scheduling experience, says Omnibus. To facilitate this, training for Buslines schedulers was conducted remotely by the Omnibus team in Australian local time. Management accountant for Buslines, David D’Apuzzo, said: “We had heard through other operators about the excellent software and support offered by Omnibus, and after meeting

PERTH STIRLING BUS INTERCHANGE UPGRADE: COMPLETION 2023

“This new facility will improve efficiency for bus commuters, and combined with other major transport upgrades for the area, will make it easier for people to travel to and from the City of Stirling,” said Western Australia transport minister Rita Saffioti.

THE WESTERN AUSTRALIA state government has matched the federal government’s $45 million Stirling Bus Interchange upgrade contribution, bringing total project investment to $90 million for a massive modern 30-stand bus facility, it’s been announced. To be delivered by the Main Roads WA as part of Stephenson Avenue Extension project, the McGowan government has allocated the $45 million to upgrade one of Perth’s busiest bus interchanges in the northern suburbs. The Stirling Bus Interchange project, adjoining Stirling Station and the Mitchell Freeway, includes upgrading the existing

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Peter Crichton at a conference in Canberra we invited them to provide a demonstration.” D’Apuzzo was particularly impressed with how user-friendly the Omnibus software is, stating: “It is obvious that it has been written by people with a scheduling background rather than software engineers trying to write a program. “Also, it was refreshing to deal with software providers that showed a genuine interest in improving our business, so it was a simple choice in picking Omnibus.” Buslines is already looking at adding OmniDAS, the market-leading driver and vehicle allocation system, Omnibus says. D’Apuzzo concluded: “Peter and team have been great to work with. No task has been too difficult and whenever we’ve raised a question they’ve come up with a solution.”

“No task has been too difficult and whenever we’ve raised a question they’ve come up with a solution.”

ABOUT OMNIBUS Omnibus provides passenger transport software - to timetable, schedule, staff, record, manage and publicise services around the world - saving customers time and money, the company states.

Designed to be flexible enough to meet with a client’s unique demands, Omnibus software is employed by some of the world’s largest passenger transport organisations and some of the smallest, too, it explains.

The extensive range of software is designed for public transport operators, local authorities or executives, and encompasses timetabling, scheduling and operational requirements, it explains.

18-stand facility to a 30-stand bus interchange, along with construction of a new pedestrian access bridge between Stirling Station and the southern car park, the government confirms. Rail patronage at Stirling is predicted to almost double by 2031, based on planned land use intensification and population growth as part of the Stirling City Centre, which is expected to result in an increase in bus patronage, it explains. With 65 buses using the existing 18-stand facility per hour during peak, the interchange is often full and buses sometimes need to loop around onto Cedric Street between dropping off and picking up passengers, contributing to traffic congestion on the busy arterial road, the government says.

disruption to motorists, bus and rail passengers and the surrounding community, it says. Contract award for the project is anticipated to take place in mid-2021, with construction to begin soon after and works to be completed in 2023. Transport minister Rita Saffioti: “Through the mid-year review process we have allocated $45 million towards the Stirling Bus Interchange project, which combined with the Commonwealth government’s funding contribution earlier this year, will see the current 18-stand facility upgraded to a 30-stand facility. “The City of Stirling is a thriving city with significant employment, retail and commercial opportunities and will grow over coming decades, so it’s important we continue to plan and deliver the infrastructure needed for the future. “This new facility will improve efficiency for bus commuters, and combined with other major transport upgrades for the area, will make it easier

for people to travel to and from the City of Stirling. “Work on Stage 1 of Stephenson Avenue is well underway, and by delivering the Stirling Bus Interchange works consecutively with the roadworks, it will streamline the construction process and reduce disruption impacts for residents.”

MINIMISED DISRUPTION By co-ordinating the project with the Stephenson Avenue works, the Public Transport Authority and Main Roads WA will be able to streamline the design and construction process, minimising

DOUBLED PATRONAGE Balcatta MLA David Michael said: “The Stirling Bus Interchange is one of the busiest bus interchanges in Perth. “Many people use the bus interchange to access the train station, and with rail patronage at Stirling Station set to double by 2031, this will only increase. “Combined with the Mitchell Freeway northbound upgrades, that are almost complete, along with Stage 1 of Stephenson Avenue works, which are well underway, we are continuing to deliver for Balcatta residents.”

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THE WOT!?! BIGGER BOAT?

This eye-catching shark bus was snapped up for NZ$31,500 (A$29,310) recently after being viewed more than 195,000 times on New Zealand webite Trade Me. Firmly resisting sinking our teeth into shark puns, this 2005 Toyota Coaster Bus – adorned with a giant shark’s head, fin and a, presumably worried, penguin – was posted by Luke Fairless from Turners Auckland. Deemed unroadworthy and with a potential repair bill of thousands of dollars, it will require more than CHUMp change to get this monster back up and running!

TRANSDEV PROVIDES CHRISTMAS BUS TRANSDEV MELBOURNE loaned ‘the big man in red himself’ Santa Claus a specially decorated Christmas bus to stand in for his reindeer and help spread some cheer to children and families staying in Very Special Kids’ Hospice in Malvern East over Christmas. Transdev staff were happy to help Santa with an early Christmas surprise for children with life-threatening illnesses by dropping in on one of Very Special Kids’ music therapy sessions, according to the company. Very Special Kids is a children’s charity supporting families across Victoria that have a child with a life-threatening condition. The music therapy session is just one of the ways Very Special Kids supports approximately 850 families across Victoria, Transdev explains. Other services include counselling, advocacy, sibling programs, bereavement support and specialist care at the Very Special Kids Hospice. Transdev acting managing director Ian Craig said: “We strongly believe in giving back to the communities in which we operate and part of what makes Christmas special for many of us is spending time with our families. “We hope that our support will raise awareness and funds, which will allow Very Special Kids to continue providing much needed hope and comfort for Victorian families who have a child with a life threatening condition.” Very Special Kids chief executive 18

officer Michael Wasley said: “Very Special Kids is incredibly grateful for Transdev Melbourne’s support, particularly during such a challenging year. The opportunity to share our Christmas Appeal through billboards across Melbourne has been fantastic. “Very Special Kids relies on the generous support of the community to support around 850 families that have a child with a life-limiting condition at no cost,” he added.

GENERATING AWARENESS As part of the visit, Transdev Melbourne donated funds raised by staff to Very Special Kids’ Christmas Fundraising Campaign, the company confirms. It has also helped spread awareness of the fundraising campaign by securing $200,000-worth of advertising space around Melbourne, it states. The theme of the Christmas appeal highlighted the important role Very Special Kids plays in providing specialist care and support services for families who have a child with a life-threatening illness and calls on Victorians to donate to support their work. Throughout 2020, Transdev also supported Very Special Kids with donations raised through staff fundraising initiatives as part of its Community Partnership Program. Above: Very Special Kids chief executive officer Michael Wasley and Transdev acting managing director Ian Craig flank the ‘OG main man in red’, Father Christmas.

MANIC MONDAY

There were dramatic scenes in the Sydney CBD on the evening of Monday, January 11 when a bus went up in flames. The fire, which occurred at the junction of Parramatta Road and Glebe Point Road, started after the bus lost power and smoke started pouring from the front. Luckily, driver Kenny Brown managed to quickly evacuate the passengers and there were no casualties reported. A spokesperson from Transit Systems, which operates the bus, commented: “Initial reports suggest that the fire started at the front of the bus, indicating that it was not an engine bay fire. We will continue to work with the Office of Transport Safety Investigations (OTSI) to determine the cause of the fire.”

CHARGING AHEAD

Coventry and Oxford are facing off in a competition to become the first town or city in the UK to run all-electric bus services. With both currently building business cases, the Department for Transport (DfT) says each area could be awarded up to £50 million to replace fleets and install the necessary infrastructure. “As we build back greener from Covid-19, we can provide people with more environmentally friendly transport and cleaner air,” said Transport Secretary Grant Shapps. “Coventry and Oxford could soon be at the forefront of our plans for a new era of bus services, helping us develop the green transport network of the future and support jobs right here in the UK.” The two finalists were chosen from 19 bids received across England.

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2,000 BCI buses delivered to Australia BCI celebrate their 30th Anniversary, coinciding with the delivery of their Bus Number 2,000 to Australian customers. We would like to acknowledge and express our gratitude to each of the 600 clients that decided to trust in our vehicles and join us in this three decades journey.

Currently the first Australian owned bus manufacturers, BCI lead the race to supply zero emissions vehicles and have incorporated to their versatile range new designs for city buses and coaches, confirming their world-class engineering, innovation and dynamism.

Bus & Coach International Pty Ltd Head Office Perth: 08 9353 9000 Sales Enquiries: 1300 289 224 www.bcibus.com.au

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Brisbane: 07 3275 6900 Melbourne: 03 8787 2100 Adelaide: 08 8182 3888

18/1/21 11:44 am

BIC

MICHAEL APPS

VALE: MAY 14, 1964 – DEC 26, 2020

Bus and truck industry stalwart and BIC executive director Michael Apps sadly passed away on December 26, 2020, after a long battle with cancer.

ews of his passing broke on various social media channels recently, with the Australian Trucking Association’s (ATA) vale capturing a sense of the man he was for both those who knew him personally and professionally, as well as for many who didn’t. It reads: “Former ATA deputy CEO Michael Apps and good friend of many

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in the industry, sadly passed away on Boxing Day 2020 after a long and courageous battle with cancer. “Michael joined the Australian Trucking Association as government relations manager in 1994 as the organisation emerged and grew its resource strength from its early foundation years. “He played a key role and made great contributions in expanding and deepening the reach of the Association as it developed into a dynamic national advocate and contributor to the effective implementation of national trucking policy. “He developed a strong and effective presence around Parliament House in Canberra as the industry pursued fundamental and ultimately successful reform of industry taxes and charges and also changes to key day-to-day trucking industry regulations. “Many industry colleagues met Michael during the ATA’s seminars that were run across Australia during the introduction of the GST and the

important diesel fuel rebate scheme.”

CHEEKY BUT EFFECTIVE It continued: “Michael brought a unique dynamism to his role managing to simultaneously engage in serious policy development implementation while leading an active and energetic life. He treated everyone equally and could mix and relate to all including drivers, unions, CEOs, and politicians through to the prime minister. “He was not afraid to say it ‘as it was’ when necessary, whilst building important coalitions in the political sphere to support the pursuit of the industry’s reform agenda. “Many of his former ATA colleagues have highlighted how he used his own inimitable and perhaps ‘cheeky’ but effective style to assist and get the best out of people wherever he went. Words

they have used to describe Michael include intelligent, articulate, talented, loyal and trustworthy. “He has been accurately described as ‘a loveable larrikin who got under people’s guard and delivered his message in a way that all levels he dealt with could easily understand and not be offended’. “Michael left the ATA in 2002 to take up the CEO position at the Bus Industry Confederation where he continued since then to pursue a vibrant reform agenda for that sector. It was during this time that he met and married the love of his life, Madonna Woodhead. “Michael was a highly successful, top-quality and lovely bloke who will be sadly missed by his many bus and trucking industry friends and his massive contributions and friendships won’t be forgotten.”

SADLY MISSED ABC magazine was fortunate enough to have Michael write a monthly column for us given his key role with the BIC on behalf of its national and state bus membership base. On behalf of all of us at ABC magazine, our sincerest condolences to Michael’s family and friends. Left: In 2002, Apps left the ATA to take up the role of CEO of the Bus Industry Confederation.

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IN FOCUS

CDC VOLVO HYBRIDS

BUS ZONEMANAGEMENT TECH INTRODUCED INTO VICTORIA Committing to zero bus emissions in designated ‘zones’, Volvo Bus Australia and ComfortDelGro Australia have introduced ‘zone management’ technology on its hybrids, which will be ultimately rolled out nationwide.

ollowing the recent introduction of Volvo’s Zone Management System, global key customer ComfortDelGro Corporation (CDC) is having this clean and innovative technology integrated into its Volvo B5LH S-Charge buses in its Victorian fleet to promote sustainable transport. CDC Victoria (CDCV) currently operates the largest existing self-charging bus electric fleet in Australia and maintains a shared focus with Volvo Bus Australia in having this technology lead the way towards long-term environmental sustainability, it states. This newly introduced system will enable CDCV’s existing S-charge bus fleet to achieve zero emissions in designated zones by operating exclusively in electric drive

mode without relying on the electricity grid or requiring expensive infrastructure for charging, Volvo explains. In addition to offering environmental benefits, this innovative ‘Zone Management’ technology also has the capacity to enhance the passenger experience for commuters in promising a silent ride, and giving city-siders improved quality of life through decreased air and noise pollution, Volvo states.

GEO-FENCING Volvo’s Zone Management system facilitates various benefits by deploying advanced geo-fencing technology and telematics, Volvo explains. This technology is the first of its kind within Australia and is paving the way to a more innovative, efficient and

environmentally friendly future for transport, it adds. “We are so excited to be the first in Australia to achieve zone-based zero emissions on our existing S-Charge bus fleet and believe that this technology innovation revolutionises our Victorian operations without the need for extensive infrastructure,” said CEO of ComfortDelGro Australia, Nicholas Yap. “This new system will greatly benefit the local community promising a silent ride with zero emissions in a variety of locations, for a cleaner, greener Australia,” stated Yap.

CONNECTED SERVICES Additional to allowing operators to program buses to automatically switch to electric mode within selected zone areas, this

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We are excited to be partnering with CDC on this journey in Melbourne.

Above: “The application of Volvo’s Zone Management feature will allow our customers like CDC to drive longer and emission free on electricity without the need to modify their operations,” said vice president Volvo Bus, Asia Pacific, David Mead. Left: Thus far, out of CDCV’s S-Charge fleet of 50, nine buses have been fitted with Volvo’s Zone Management technology.

technology also allows for speed regulation without driver intervention to ensure safer cities, the company says. This innovative Zone Management system is part of Volvo Bus Australia’s Connected Services offering, available as an option with any Volvo B5LH S-Charge purchase, it confirms. The Volvo B5LH S-Charge can run in electric or diesel mode and can operate on up to 100 per cent biofuel – all whilst producing a lower carbon footprint than many grid-charged electric vehicles, according to Volvo. The batteries are charged via both the energy that is captured through braking regeneration and the engine. As a result, the Volvo B5L S-Charge can be used on virtually any bus route both in urban areas and in the suburbs, Volvo states.

IMPLEMENTATION Thus far, out of CDCV’s S-Charge fleet of 50,

nine buses have been fitted with Volvo’s Zone Management technology and have commenced operations on the streets of Melbourne across major routes. The remaining buses will be upgraded across the next four months. “We are excited to be partnering with CDC on this journey in Melbourne and for allowing us to introduce innovation with a trusted partner,” said vice president Volvo Bus, Asia Pacific, David Mead. “The application of Volvo’s Zone Management feature will allow our customers like CDC to drive longer and emission free on electricity without the need to modify their operations,” stated Mead. While Volvo Bus Australia looks forward to the introduction of the Volvo electric chassis to the Australian market late 2022, the Volvo S-Charge is an environmentally sustainable transport option available immediately for small and large operators across Australia and will be instrumental in promoting a cleaner industry and greener cities. busnews.com.au January 2021 ABC

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IN FOCUS

MOSCOW E-BUSES

MOSCOW WELCOMES 600TH E-BUS Moscow Transport starts 2021 welcoming its 600th e-bus for the capital city, maintaining its leading position in Europe while introducing a local solution for converting regular modern buses to electric.

ith a Moscow-based company presenting an IT platform for electric bus manufacturers, the developers promise to reduce energy consumption of electric vehicles by 25 per cent and increase the power reserve of e-buses to up to 150km, Moscow Transport (MT) explains. During a recent working meeting with Maksim Liksutov, the deputy mayor of Moscow for Transport, Russian manufacturer of automotive components NPP ITELMA showed a

prototype of an e-bus equipped with modern Russian-made components. The proposed equipment allows replacing the batteries of an electric bus, “…in five minutes at terminal stations using pit-stop mobiles, as well as to monitor batteries online,” the company states. The system will also make it possible to create an electric bus from any modern bus, it adds. “We welcome innovative solutions and are always looking for new ideas for urban transport development,” said Liksutov. “That is why our start-up fund was

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a chance to immediately test themselves in the city,” he added.

BATTERY SWAPS?

created. It is important for the city to support domestic companies with production in Moscow.”

DRIVER TRAINING Liksutov also announced that the first special e-bus specifically for driver training had arrived in Moscow, so now trainees will master the routes in urban conditions using the most modern mode of transport in the city, Moscow Transport states. This vehicle is equipped with everything for the training; inside there are two cabins – one for a driver-mentor, the other for a trainee, so in emergency situations a more experienced driver will take control. “Earlier, beginners trained on [conventional] buses and prepared for unforeseen circumstances on a special simulator. Now, our professionals – in addition to the usual exercises – will have

To clarify, in terms of this ‘portable battery swap’ concept – effectively negating potentially exorbitant charging-infrastructure costs – as a spokesperson for The Department of Transport and Road Infrastructure Development in Moscow explained exclusively to ABC magazine: “Replacing the batteries means physical replacement for already charged batteries, so the waiting time at a terminal [bus] stop is minimal. Pit-stop mobiles quickly bring full batteries for change and take away the empty ones. “It turns out cheaper and more efficient, as we do not lose time for re-charging and [the bus] can almost immediately re-enter its route. It is cheaper than using stationary charging infrastructure. “What is more, all the technology is 100 per cent local [Russian], so we cut prices on production, delivery and taxes.”

Opposite: Moscow Transport received its 600th e-bus recently. Top: A specially designed training vehicle has two cabins. Above: A battery swap system reduces downtime, by changing run-down batteries for fully charged batteries rather than plugging the bus in. Below: “We welcome innovative solutions and are always looking for new ideas for urban transport development,” said Moscow deputy mayor Maksim Liksutov.

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IN FOCUS

GO WEST

GO WEST NEW BUS FLEET MANAGEMENT

West Australian bus operator Go West Tours has implemented ‘next generation fleet management technology’ to fine-tune operations, with a successful rollout and adaptation by its drivers, the company reports.

Below: Drivers have reacted positively to the system, using it to share safety information such as the state of roads Opposite: “We found when the platform was successfully adopted it allowed people to explore other capabilities beyond the fundamental functionalities of GPS tracking, speed control and driver fatigue management,” said Go West director David Haoust.

s a key part of its growth strategy, Go West Tours – a WA supplier of charter, rental and tour vehicles, servicing the mining, education, tourism and government sectors as well as private parties – seeks to ensure it continues to offer the latest technology systems to clients to track and manage vehicle speed, driver fatigue, maintenance and safety, it states. Go West engaged Teletrac Navman to develop a bespoke solution with the broad range of capability it required, it explains. According to the company, Teletrac Navman’s solution specialists worked closely with Go West to create a tailor-made system, including passenger scanning, fatigue management, geo-fencing, speed management, GPS vehicle tracking and electronic document management.

The custom solution provided comprehensive data harvesting and analysis, so the business could track each trip electronically and improve reporting accuracy, it explains. “Managing complex change is often challenging and has to be done in a careful manner, but we found the Teletrac Navman platform was really easy to use, which helped us get buy-in from staff,” said Go West Tours director David Haoust. “We found when the platform was successfully adopted, it allowed people to explore other capabilities beyond the fundamental functionalities of GPS tracking, speed control and driver fatigue management.”

CULTURAL CHANGE Go West Tours implemented Teletrac Navman’s comprehensive suite of telematics solutions in more than 100 of its buses, equipping 50 of those with the end-to-end telematics solution in two months, it states. A key part of the solution is an in-vehicle compliance and productivity tool, alongside telematics that provides GPS tracking capabilities, speed management and card reading technology, says Teletrac. With electronic pre-start capabilities and a new digital process to manage documentation, such as risk assessments, the business streamlined complex compliance requirements while ensuring safety and easy measurability, it explains. Teletrac Navman understood the sensitivities of the cultural change

required to get the drivers on board with the new processes and platforms, it adds. The team hosted a series of ‘onboarding’ sessions for the staff at Go West Tours, so they could quickly and effectively adopt the new technology, it confirms. This change also had to coincide with the acquisition of 50 new 50-seater buses being rolled out during two months across five different mining sites, the companies state. Tablet-style data importing, work diary logging and electronic pre-starts were new to bus drivers, but training and the user-friendly nature of Teletrac Navman’s product suite helped Go West achieve the all-important acceptance from drivers while meeting the implementation deadline, it says.

THE UPSHOT Offering Go West improved control over its business, the technology

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helps senior managers make more informed decisions, promoting greater transparency, it says. Haoust says the business now has the data to assess and discover better ways of doing things, and an improved sense of what’s going on in the organisation. The data generated from the platform has generated significant efficiencies, such as setting up geo-fences around mining sites and using high-definition location data to track fuel use on- and off-road for more accurate fuel tax credit calculations, so the business can maximise Australian Tax Office (ATO) claims. The accuracy of the data and clear reporting around safety and security has enhanced the offering that Go West Tours can make to the biggest mining companies in Australia, it explains. Simultaneously, the in-cabin systems have empowered drivers to feel more engaged with the business, leading to greater levels of driver performance and work satisfaction, the company explains. The system provides significant safety

We found when the platform was successfully adopted; it allowed people to explore other capabilities beyond the fundamental functionalities. benefits, such as speed alerts when a vehicle breaches the speed limit, helping drivers to maintain professional and safety standards. “Drivers love the messaging system and are even using it to share safety information like the state of sections of a road,” said Haoust. “That’s something they’ve done off their own back, showing what a positive relationship they have with the system. “When drivers don’t feel like they’re just driving a bus and they have this cutting-edge technology as part of their day to day, it makes them feel more valued and shows that they’re executing a really important job.”

ABOUT GO WEST Go West Tours is Western Australia’s leading supplier of modern charter, rental and tour vehicles, it says. It has become one of Australia’s most respected integrated transport providers, employing more than 200 staff across seven agencies in Western Australia, it adds. Enjoying a reputation for providing safe and reliable transport, the company is the preferred choice for Australia’s blue-chip companies, particularly in the mining space, it says. It has established strong relationships with resources companies to develop tailored transport solutions that meet clients’ unique needs, it adds. busnews.com.au January 2021 ABC

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EVENT NEWS

JUST AROUND THE CORNER

A stream of announcements about the new products that will be on display at this year’s highly anticipated Brisbane Truck Show will be coming over the course of the next few weeks.

ith visits to showrooms and customers off the cards for significant parts of the past year, the 2021 Brisbane Truck Show presents the best opportunity to come together and reconnect with customers, peers and the entire industry. It also allows for these new products, models or innovations to be seen up close. That applies across the full range of trucks, trailers, components, technology, equipment, accessories and even merchandise. On the opening morning of the show, highly anticipated new models will be unveiled to an eager audience. Before the doors open the halls are busy with sales teams putting a final polish on every item and every counter. It is a beautiful thing to see the lights come on, screens light up and the doors open. But first is the media tour. Each of the truck manufacturers has five minutes for each of their brands; the aim is to get the pack of industry journalists excited about the latest innovations. Each manufacturer has a different pitch based on its new model: is it packed with safety technology, will it be more productive than existing models, or will we see the spotlight on sustainability in 2021? Executives from each of the brands are on hand to pull the silks off and tell their stories. Their enthusiasm is infectious. It is hard not to imagine your own livery painted across cab doors and trailer curtains. This year will be a little bit different because the crowd will not be packed so tightly as we ensure a COVIDSafe event. But we promise you will be able to get up close to the new models and innovations. We are lucky enough to be attending the Southern Hemisphere’s largest automotive event, in one of the world’s best convention centres. That means your experience has been 28

You get great value for a fun day’s entertainment.

It is hard not to imagine your own livery painted across cab doors and trailer curtains. carefully planned to ensure your safety and wellbeing are the highest of priorities. The Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre, the Brisbane City Council, the Queensland Government, and the truck show’s organiser Heavy Vehicle Industry Australia are leaving no stone unturned in ensuring a COVIDSafe event. Likewise, the exhibitors are putting the same degree of care into the planning of their exhibits and following detailed guidelines that have been developed to give everyone confidence that the rebirth of major Australian business events is delivered successfully by every measure. Tickets are on sale now. It is hard to imagine better value for a full day’s entertainment and yet this year the show delivers.

Not only is the Brisbane Truck Show accompanied by the South Bank Truck Festival with a huge display of trucks and trailers on display in the parklands, and all the free entertainment in the area, this year your ticket will also get you into the new Civil Construction Field Days – the new heavy equipment and machinery show awash with everything you could ask for in excavators, graders, rollers and the like. All of that on one ticket! Then, add to that the chance to win the Ultimate VIP Experience Package just by registering your ticket. The BTS21 major promotion partner, Morris Finance, has put together a package of amazing experiences including a box at the AFL, V8 supercar hot laps, four Bathurst 1000 corporate suite tickets, and your own racing simulator. Add to that a large screen TV, SP Tools voucher, bar fridge, BBQ, Walkinshaw Sports golf buggy, a fire pit, dart board and more. It’s a heck of a prize and you will be in the running when you purchase and register your ticket to the show.

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INNOVATION - SUSTAINABILITY - SAFETY - KNOWLEDGE - CAREERS - COMMUNITY

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SPONSORED CONTENT

VBA 50 YEARS

2010 stands out as one where Volvo Bus Australia had over 600 units delivered, taking us to number one that year. product to drive and it is a product that we purchase because of the quality and the great relationship we have with the company. “They’ve all been good vehicles. The B10M has probably been the backbone of the industry for a lot of operators in the industry. The B12 was also sensational and is still unsurpassed in terms of reliability and being a really good vehicle. The B7s B8s and B9s were also fantastic. Throughout the past 15–20 years we’ve seen a lot of really good products.” KEN GRENDA – founder Grenda Corporation “The association with Volvo has been good for us. They have always been the best people to deal with. “In 1967, Ken and a few other operators did a round-the-world trip to visit every major manufacturer of buses. At the time, the brands of the day like Bedford and Leyland were not meeting the needs of the Australian market, so they were looking for something better. Having trialled a few brands, Ken and the team settled on Volvo and in 1971 Grenda was appointed as the Volvo Bus chassis seller. The progress wasn’t without issue [however], with the government promoting Australian-made and putting a few obstacles in the way. “Over time, Grenda and Volvo separated. The body-building

rights were acquired by Volgren and in Victoria, CMV, led by Jim Crawford, became the agent for Volvo Bus in Victoria. It was a time characterised by family businesses and strong family values – something shared by the Grenda and Crawford families, now over many decades.” NEIL ROBINS – secretary, Tasmanian Bus and Coach Society “We embark on scenic and enthralling tours across Tasmania and are committed to the care and restoration of historical buses and coaches. Our tours cover anywhere from anywhere from 30km to over 600km and we like to think of ourselves as Australia’s only ‘living museum’ as we showcase vintage vehicles to the public across Tasmania. We have 11 vehicles within the fleet at the moment. “Ninety per cent are in club registration, which is valid for 30 years, which allows us to take them all around Tasmania and take them to the car and truck shows. Everything nowadays is automatic and it’s nice to step back into the past with these older vehicles. “The first Volvo I drove was the B58 artic that I own; however, since establishing the society, the Bluebird was certainly the pick (definitely the most luxurious). Yet, the latest 1988 B10M with Hyliner body is exceptional to drive with the 12-speed splitter, so driver-wise the Hyliner is the pick for me.”

OUR PEOPLE

Above: David Mead, vice president of Volvo Bus, Asia Pacific. Below: 2021 is a year of celebration for Volvo, marking 50 years since the brand began operating in Australia.

DAVID MEAD – vice president Volvo Bus, Asia Pacific “Milestones? 2010 stands out as one where Volvo Bus Australia had over 600 units delivered, taking us to number one that year, which was a turning point. Now, to have more than a decade of leadership has been amazing. It’s hard to get there and harder to stay there. So I’d say that in 2010 it was a breakout year. From then it’s been an achievement to maintain that. “What has contributed to our success has been never taking business for granted! We work hard not to be complacent. People often ask who are the key customers – but to me it doesn’t matter, they’re all key. You can be part of the Volvo family buying one or 100 units. We’ve also been humble in our position of leadership. For many customers that is very comforting. They’ve made that decision to work with us. It means they’ve trusted us to be their business partner more than any other brand. “What will set VBA apart from its competitors in years to come is continuing to innovate in products – be it electric or other fuels. The other thing is that the organisation needs to keep evolving as each city changes the way they do transport. As the market changes, we must change.”

ABC January 2021 busnews.com.au

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AUSTRALIA WIDE

busstopsales.com.au 18/1/21 1:18 pm

COVERSTORY

SCANIA HYBRIDS

MULTIPLE CHOICE In the push for workable and pragmatic electro-mobility options in the bus world, manufacturers globally have had to assess bespoke product portfolios for various international markets. In Australia, at least – and perhaps more so after 2020’s insanity – is hybrid tech best placed to find its feet? Scania thinks so… WORDS FABIAN COTTER IMAGES ANDREW DIBBLE + CHARLIE SURIANO

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t’s not new news that we at ABC have constantly highlighted and rued the sorrowful plight of the uber-advanced Euro 6 commercial diesel engine, if all the pundits promoting the EV revolution are to be believed - given the forced inevitability of such a transition. And to the layman such a demise would very much seem to be the case. Yet, while global manufacturing and sales of new fully diesel buses have reportedly plummeted, that in no way reflects any reduction of interest in the tech. Well, the engine part at least. That

is, all the R&D from so many bus-makers over years into the latest, ‘cleanest’ iteration of such a powerplant would be such a shame to waste. And thankfully, even as 2030 approaches, that doesn’t necessarily need to be the case. That’s where hybrid tech comes in. A full EV it is not – but that is just the point. With the world moving so fast in terms of battery technology (cell development trial and error, way before anything is available ‘off the shelf’) – and any perceivably associated costs involved - a bus using both advanced

diesel tech and battery tech to propel a bus efficiently, effectively and as cost friendly as possible in any transition period is a pretty big talking point for many Australasian bus operators looking to enhance their fleets. To many it will seem the safe bet, depending on their needs, while fulfilling any ‘clean’ contractual bus-route obligations and sheer on-road performance requirements. Ten to 15 years on, maybe they will go full EV or not need to. But right now, to certain operators, hybrid just makes sense. busnews.com.au January 2021 ABC

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COVERSTORY

SCANIA HYBRIDS

The Scania diesel-electric hybrid bus marks a significant step-change in urban bus functionality and environmental benefits. EARLY CUSTOMERS Highlighting a discerning use for the tech in the Australian market, Melbourne-based Ventura Bus Lines recently took delivery of the first two Scania hybrid Euro 6 route buses fitted with locally built Volgren bodies and destined for suburban and outer metropolitan route duties. These are the first Scania Hybrid buses to be delivered to a Melbourne Metropolitan Contract Bus Operator, and will be substantially quieter and 38

with fewer greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions than the 1998 vintage buses they are replacing, Scania confirms. With the ability to run in ‘silent’ electric mode when approaching or departing from bus stops, the Scania Hybrids will contribute to a reduction in noise and air pollution, providing greater public convenience, especially for areas with heavy pedestrian traffic or outdoor dining, the company explains. Ventura Bus Lines managing

director Andrew Cornwall says the Scania hybrids had arrived at the right time. “These buses provide a significant step towards a cleaner environment, and a fully battery-powered bus future. The hybrids can be driven without noise or emissions at low speed in areas where there is a lot of foot-traffic, such as in the new outdoor dining precincts or outside schools. This makes them perfect for suburban neighbourhoods, as well as busy shopping strips,” Cornwall stated. “These are the first Scania hybrid buses to join the Ventura fleet and they will be used within an area stretching from Brighton in the west to Pakenham in the east, on multiple routes comprising short and long stop intervals. “We will also deploy them as part of our level crossing removal and metro tunnel bus replacement contract, so they will have to cope with high loading capacity throughout the day. This will be a good test for the Scania hybrid platform,” he said. “The adoption of these hybrid technology buses is the second stage of our environmental journey, having operated a fleet of Scania buses powered by renewable ethanol for more than 20 years. “While moving to zero-emission

Left. (L-R): At the Ventura handover were State MP for Dandenong Gabrielle Williams, Ventura driver Sue Baran and Victorian Minister for Public Transport, The Hon. Ben Carroll MP. Below: The adoption of the Scania hybrid for the DIT-owned fleet has led to an increase in the number of employees at Precision Buses dedicated to bus body building, Scania outlines.

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ADELAIDE DEBUTS FIRST SCANIA HYBRID South Australia now has its first Scania hybrid bus in action “towards a greener future” after debuting on Adelaide’s famed O-Bahn busway, the company announced recently. The Scania hybrid, which can run with zero tailpipe emissions, has been bodied by Precision Buses in Adelaide, and comes ready to operate on the O-Bahn as well as the city streets, Scania states. “Today we are taking a small but important step towards achieving a sustainable transport solution in Adelaide,” said Julian Gurney, director of sales for Scania Bus and Engines. “The first Scania hybrid to hit the streets will be able to travel on the O-Bahn. When pulling into the interchanges to pick up or set down passengers and when departing the stops, the bus has the ability to operate on battery power, which means no noise and no tailpipe emissions,” he said. The Scania powertrain retains the familiar high output, lowest-emission Euro 6 diesel engine mandated by the South Australian government (and meets a higher standard than the ADR requirements), mated to an electric machine powered by batteries and charged through a regeneration process. The introduction of additional electric propulsion leads to a significant reduction in tailpipe emissions, says Scania.

HOMETOWN BODY A locally assembled two-door Precision VST bus body has been built over the Scania chassis. This is the first of two Scania hybrid buses ordered by the South Australia Department of Infrastructure and Transport (DIT), and both will carry ‘hybrid’ badging on the overhead battery pod. A second order of five Scania hybrids is also in the pre-production stage, Scania confirms. The adoption of the Scania hybrid for the DIT-owned fleet has led to an increase in the number of employees at Precision Buses dedicated to bus

body building, Scania outlines. “Each of these new Scania hybrid buses will make a contribution to reducing environmental emissions from public transport, accelerating us towards the goal of a fossil free transport future,” Gurney said. “This hybrid technology has been proven in operation in several European cities where diesel consumption and emissions have been cut by up to 25 per cent per vehicle. “We know that our hybrid technology makes a tangible contribution to reducing air and noise pollution. “The Scania hybrids are part of the 340 Scania Euro 6-compliant diesel buses that we will deliver over the next decade for the benefit of all Adelaide’s public transport users. “The first Scania hybrid will also be the 100th Scania bus built by Precision Buses for DIT (53 of which were delivered under the previous contract and 47 under the current contract). “Scania has long been the most popular bus provider for the O-Bahn busway, which cumulatively provides more than 1,000 trips per week over the 18km run to Adelaide’s commuters,” Gurney explained.

SIGNIFICANT STEP “These hybrid buses are setting South Australia on the road towards a cleaner environment. Ultimately, we hope to reach a batterypowered, zero-emission bus future,” said Steven Godbold, Scania SA government bus contract manager. “Australian bus drivers who have been behind the wheel are very happy with the driveability and overall performance. “Ride comfort for passengers is also improved when running on battery power and, by eliminating the noise of a bus pulling away from the stop and the smell of the exhaust, pedestrians in the vicinity of bus stop will also notice the improvement,” Godbold said. “The Scania diesel electric hybrid bus marks a significant step-change in urban bus functionality and environmental benefits. “The Scania hybrid’s ‘silent mode’ zero tailpipe-emissions experience will be a IMAGE: Roy Vandervegt

revelation for drivers and passengers alike,” Godbold said. The Scania hybrid powertrain fitted to the new Adelaide buses has been designed to run for up to 4km on battery power alone, up to a maximum speed of 40km/h, Scania confirms. The diesel engine can fully charge its batteries while in driving mode in just 30 minutes, says Scania.

SHINING EXAMPLE A handover event of the first two of at least seven state-of-the-art hybrid buses being delivered as part of the Marshall government’s next generation of loweremissions Adelaide Metro buses took place today. “We are building a better, cleaner and more environmentally friendly public transport network to support local jobs and encourage more people to leave their car at home and catch public transport,” South Australia Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, Corey Wingard, said. “The first two Scania Hybrids to be part of the Adelaide Metro bus fleet have now rolled off the production line and will be ready for use across the bus network, including on the O-Bahn, in January after undergoing extensive acceptance testing. “Pending the results of acceptance testing, it’s estimated this will result in a 15 per cent reduction in fuel consumption. “These buses are a shining example of the innovative technology we have adopted for our new generation of Adelaide Metro buses, which will be more fuel efficient and have lower exhaust emissions than the buses they are replacing.” The 340 new buses delivered under the contract will replace existing buses which are no longer fit for purpose or have reached the compulsory retirement age of 25 years, as required under the Passenger Transport Regulations 2009. “Importantly, a minimum of 34 buses delivered each year will be built by Edinburgh-based Precision Buses at a critical time when jobs are needed most,” Minister Wingard said. “Precision Buses has also created an Apprenticeship Academy and around 40 new jobs as a result of this bus supply contract. “The adoption of the Scania Hybrid for the Adelaide Metro fleet has led to an increase in the number of employees at Precision Buses dedicated to bus body building.” These two Scania Hybrid buses were the first ordered by the Department of Infrastructure and Transport, with a second order of five Scania Hybrids also in the preproduction stage. The supply contract with Scania includes provisions to order additional hybrid buses and adapt to new technologies as they emerge over time. All new buses are Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) compliant and have driver security screens, duress alarms, CCTV and a fire suppression system.

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COVERSTORY

SCANIA HYBRIDS

We’re especially proud of this build and we’re delighted to have contributed to Ventura’s first Scania hybrid bus.

Above: The Scania hybrid uses a 9.0-litre 320hp (239kW) five-cylinder Euro 6-compliant diesel engine. Opposite, Top: These buses work well in areas of high foot traffic, being quiet and clean at low speeds, says Scania. Opposite, Bottom: For passengers this is a notably quieter ride.

buses will come at some stage in the future, the Scania Hybrids offer a proven product with which we can transition towards a cleaner public transport future. “We see the Scania hybrids as the perfect answer as we navigate the road to zero-emission buses,” Cornwall explained.

STATE FIRST The first Scania hybrid was delivered to regional bus operator McHarry’s in Geelong late 2019, but Scania has had hundreds of examples working in Europe for almost five years, reducing diesel fuel consumption and exhaust emissions by up to 25 per cent, it confirms. Carbon dioxide emissions can fall by up to 92 per cent if the buses are run on bio-diesel; however, Ventura will be running its Scania hybrids on regular low sulphur diesel to be able to make direct consumption comparisons with its existing fleet, it explains. “We know that these hybrids

make a tangible contribution to reducing air and noise pollution in our cities,” said Julian Gurney, director of sales for Scania Bus and Engines. “Scania is at the forefront globally in driving the shift towards a sustainable transport solution and we are confident that Ventura and its passengers will quickly come to appreciate the benefits of the Scania hybrid powertrain. “The driving experience is excellent, and for passengers the ride is noticeably quieter when running on battery power. “For pedestrians, the noise of a bus pulling away from the stop and the smell of exhaust that has been such a typical urban experience is now gone, which has made this technology very popular in European operations. “The Scania diesel-electric hybrid bus marks a significant step-change in urban bus functionality and environmental benefits.

“The Hybrid’s ‘silent mode’ zero tailpipe-emissions experience will be a revelation for drivers and passengers alike,” he said.

WHAT’S IN THE BOX? The Scania hybrid powertrain fitted to the new Ventura buses has been designed to run for up to 4km on battery power alone, up to a maximum speed of 40km/h, Scania confirms. Employing the 9.0-litre 320hp (239kW) five-cylinder Euro 6-compliant diesel engine typically used across Australian bus fleets, and famed for its ‘torquey’ 1,600Nm output, the hybrid bus further boosts its environmental credentials with a 177hp (132kW)/1,030Nm electric motor, both of which are seamlessly integrated with the Scania Opticruise transmission, the company states. The diesel engine can fully charge its batteries while in driving mode in just 30 minutes, it should be noted.

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VALUED PARTNER Volgren national sales manager Yuri Tessari says it was an absolute privilege to partner with longstanding customer Ventura and chassis OEM Scania to produce the two Volgren bodied low-floor Euro 6 hybrids. “Volgren has supplied vehicles to Ventura for two decades; in that time we have built more than 300 vehicles for our valued partner. “We’re especially proud of this build and we’re delighted to have contributed to Ventura’s first Scania hybrid bus.” Tessari says Volgren has worked hard to create added flexibility to its production line, engineering and processes to help it adapt to a range of low and zero-emission chassis. “Volgren has a long history of designing, developing and applying new technologies for the Australian market. “We pride ourselves on providing engineering solutions that meet the developing needs of our customers, and we’re more than ready to take on the challenge of developing the best possible bus body for a low-emission future,” Tessari said.

KNOWLEDGE IS POWER A further benefit of the adoption of the Scania hybrids by Ventura is that its 2021 intake of 20 first-year apprentice technicians will benefit from learning about the hybrid powertrain system, which will stand them in

good stead for their future careers. “We’ll be ‘up-skilling’ our technicians and our apprentices as they learn about the diesel-electric powertrain, which again is a step on the road towards the full battery electric buses of the future,” Cornwall explained. busnews.com.au January 2021 ABC

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OPERATOR

GLENORIE COACHES

eet Alan Ng, the next generation of Australian bus industry operators. Founder and operations manager of Glenorie Coaches, Ng was 27 when he set up the business in the Hills District of New South Wales with a single coach. Ten years on, the charter-only business owns a fleet of 17 coaches, although only 10 remain in operation at present due to the Covid-19 induced downturn. The business mainly runs school charters both short and long distance, as well as corporate, seniors and group

travel in the Hills District and upper North Shore. It has a depot in Dural and workshop in Middle Dural.

JOURNEY TO BUSES Ng had an interesting foray into the bus industry. “As a kid I grew up loving anything with a motor, so catching the Harris Park Transport bus to school definitely started my interest in buses. Riding with Terry Clarke from Clarke Coaches and Richard Dawes from Australia Wide on our high school camps made it even stronger,” he said. At 19, while studying IT on a

scholarship, Ng got his first bus driving job. “After graduating I spent a few years in IT, bus driving on the side, then took a career break, which ended up being near three years, driving coaches around Europe for Topdeck Tours, followed by another two years in Australia.” In early 2010, Ng commenced operations for Glenorie Coaches, targeting the local area in the Hills District of Sydney. “We also were subcontracted work from Murrays Coaches, Clarke Coaches and Forest Coach Lines, which helped

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LIGHT IN THE DARK

to get us on our feet. We are still a small business, with roughly 20 people on the staff. While sharing the driving responsibilities, I do everything in between – from wages to cleaning toilets,” he explained.

THE FLEET “We’ve always been selective of our fleet and have built it up based on the specific needs of our clients, so we’ve worked on standardised capacities and specifications. Our fleet is clearly run by a ‘bus nut’ as we have one from different makes: Volvo, Scania, MAN, Mercedes, Motorcoach,

Denning, Iveco, Renault and Hino. “As a small operator, we aim to be as self-sufficient as possible. We run our own workshop and panel shop where we refurbish and modify buses to suit our needs. Buying brand new is highly risky. Our work is non-contractual and we essentially survive week by week. While we stay consistent, we’re only as good as our last job and it is not hard to lose a customer. Covid-19 has been a solid reminder that being conservative is the way to go. “We have an absolutely fabulous group of drivers, though it worries me a lot as most are at retirement age now

and will be really hard to replace. The absolute biggest challenge is finding the right drivers, who will look after your customer and your vehicle at the same time.” Ng admittedly gets a kick out of ‘doing up’ buses. He is slowly building a small collection of historic buses that he restores in-house. Next is a 1986 Volvo B10M Custom Coach Hyliner followed by a 1985 Austral Tourmaster.

REFURBISHED MAN Ng recently had a 1988 MAN double-decker refurbished by busnews.com.au January 2021 ABC

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OPERATOR

GLENORIE COACHES

The coach was purchased from the famous ‘Crocodile Hunter’ Steve Irwin’s Australia Zoo, where it was named ‘Robert Clarence’ after Irwin’s son.

Top ( L-R): Evelyn (1), Alan, Lisa, and at the front is Russell (6) and Bruce (4). Above: Coachcare owner David Bishop. Opposite: The refurbishment was the largest project undertaken to date by Coachcare. 44

NSW-based bus and coach repair specialist Coachcare. The coach was purchased from the famous ‘Crocodile Hunter’ Steve Irwin’s Australia Zoo, where it was named ‘Robert Clarence’ after Irwin’s son. “Over the years we patched repairs to buy it time, but it was always very difficult to get it off the road as it is one of our most profitable vehicles. The Covid downturn was the perfect opportunity to have it properly refurbished. I felt it was going to be worth it as we would preserve

it once it retires,” Ng explained. Coachcare owner David Bishop admits it was not only the biggest job provided by Glenorie Coaches, it was the most significant work to date his small team undertook. “We took all the windows out and panels off, and did extensive frame repairs where there was rust. From there we put new panels on and instead of using the traditional old materials we used fibreglass and aluminium to give it a little more life. “Then, we put brand new windows (supplied by Peter Roberts’ Team Waratah Bus & Coach Glass Group) in, gave it a full respray and did the new sign writing (by Designwriter’s Andrew Holmes). “We couldn’t be more proud of the way this old girl has

turned out,” he said. Ng and Bishop first met at a netball carnival in Sydney. They got to talking and soon Ng sent his first vehicle to Coachcare for a respray job. Happy with the service, he gave Bishop two more jobs before the MAN refurb. It is an association that has worked for both businesses, and the two men only had good things to say about each other. “Apart from the confidence that comes with dealing directly with the owner, manager and tradesperson at a refurb shop, we’ve always been on budget and on time with Coachcare. We have another two vehicles scheduled to go there over the next few months,” Ng said. On his side, Bishop is extremely pleased that Alan had the, “...guts and determination to

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COACHCARE spend this kind of money during a pandemic”. “Alan has pretty much helped my business stay afloat during Covid. The bus industry was at its knees and it wasn’t just the operators, it is also guys like me who were hit. The operators just weren’t coming to us because they weren’t going to spend the money. But Alan decided to have a go and gave us this double-decker to work on,” Bishop explained.

COVID IMPACT The pandemic had a huge impact on Glenorie Coaches despite Ng’s effort to set a worst-case scenario plan very early on. “We were basically decimated overnight. Less than a week after planning we were at that worst-case scenario. By the fifth day we had enacted our survival plan and had de-registered all but five vehicles. All tools were downed two days later while we analysed our financial position and it looked grim. Losing skills and staff was my biggest

Founded by David Bishop four years ago, Coachcare is a small family run business located in Nambucca Heads on the Mid North Coast of NSW. It is capable of any type of repair or interior and exterior refurbishment job. Bishop prides in relying on local suppliers for things like glass and windscreens. “We employ two tradesmen on the floor. We’re not a huge concern. We’re just out there to give some people some work and put a little money into our economy,” he said. Bishop was born in a bus family, with his father running a bus-building interior business (now known as Express Bus Builders) in the 1970s. In 2011 Bishop was trying to set up his own business, but at that time his agenda was to steer away from buses so he set up a metal fabrication shop. However, a few years later one of his very good customers talked him into getting back into the bus game again. They felt that there was a need in the area for someone to do this job. Bishop changed the name of the business to Coachcare to reflect the new direction of the business and is gradually growing his customer base. However, with the market taking a downswing due to Covid, Bishop too felt the pinch. “The school holidays are usually our busiest time, but once Covid hit for two school terms we didn’t have any job other than Alan’s coach in the shed. We were quite fortunate with Alan offering us this job. There seems to be a little confidence coming back into the market since Christmas, but it remains a worrying time for the bus and coach industry,” he said.

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OPERATOR

GLENORIE COACHES

We have always budgeted on large reserves for rainy days, though our planning was for major mechanical repairs not a pandemic. concern,” Ng said. “JobKeeper was the complete game changer. All core staff except one made it on and were looked after during the worst periods. For the first five months we were essentially down 98–100 per cent and apart from one-off emergency call outs, we barely turned a wheel. “Looking forward, I believe we’re still in for a very rocky ride. We have always budgeted on large reserves for rainy days, though our planning was for major mechanical repairs not a pandemic. “Currently, our fleet stands at 10. We were hoping to re-register more in Term 1 of 2021, but that is currently on the backburner while we wait to see what happens with the current wave and confidence in the market. “We’ve given up predicting how

things will look into the future. “Apart from Covid-19, there will be big challenges on the horizon. The big players are all becoming multinationals with infinite money. “The vehicles are becoming increasingly complex, leaving owners at the mercy of the big manufacturers.

Changes in regulations could happen at any time. “While I wake up happy doing what we’re doing, we’ll just keep going. Who knows how long that will be for? “The main reason why I’m in the business is because I live and breathe buses. If it weren’t for being passionate about the vehicles, industry and loving getting behind the wheel, there isn’t much to love about the stress and risk associated.”

Above ( L-R): Currently, the Glenorie Coaches’ fleet stands at 10 vehicles. Right: It’s been a difficult past year, but the passion for buses still remains. 46

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DRIVEN

VOLVO B10M MARK 1

RETRO RECALL Westbus’ Volvo B10Ms were an iconic sight on Sydney’s Western Suburbs roads in the 1980s and their spirit lives on in a beautifully restored Mark 1 today. Built to last, the 50th B10M that Westbus bought is at the Sydney Bus Museum and it still runs like a charm. WORDS AND IMAGES PAUL ALDRIDGE

he Sydney Bus Museum has more than 250 members that work together to preserve a rare collection of historic buses dating as long ago as 1920. Housed in the Old Tram Building in the Inner West suburb of Leichhardt, NSW, the building is the perfect industrial backdrop to showcase these great vehicles that are meticulously restored by the members, who have an incredible eye for authentically recreating the past. For die-hard busies, a visit here is always a real privilege and delight. There are buses here with important historic significance to our industry; it’s a timeline of change and growth preserved for future generations. For today’s drive we have a bus painted in livery and signage that was part of many’s childhood and younger years; a real trip back in time. To use the saying “kid in a candy store” certainly fits how walking the aisles of the Sydney Bus Museum makes a local bus enthusiast feel. If you’re in the industry, there’s sure to be a bus here to take you back to your first driving job, or to times as a teenager without wheels and fond memories of a past era. The Volvo B10M Mark I was part of the huge

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DRIVEN

VOLVO B10M MARK 1

attention taken to staying authentic; these aren’t old buses restored to look like new buses, they are buses restored to original.

VOLVO NUMBER 50

Westbus fleet that began with the Bosnjak family in 1955, when they commenced operating as Bosnjak’s Bus Service. They started off with a fleet of five buses operating routes between the Sydney suburbs of Canley Vale and Edensor Park. Over time they purchased many companies and expanded operations in Sydney’s Western and Outer Western suburbs until they ceased trading in 2013. Built on September 24 in 1984, the old girl was registered m/o 7457 and commenced service for Westbus from its Northmead depot, operating around the Parramatta and Hills area. She continued here until mid-2008, when she was repainted in the CDC canary 50

yellow livery and became part of the loan fleet for Westbus operating in Penrith, Bonnyrigg, Seven Hills and as far afield as Thornton in the Hunter Valley. The Hunter Valley was to be the last stop for 7457 as she finished her final months as a school bus before being deregistered in 2013. Following 29 years of service, CDC donated 7457 to the Bus Museum for future preservation; a great example of an enduring fleet bus, built to serve and built to last. The restoration was completed by the volunteers with help from both Volvo Australia and Custom Coaches, ready to make her public debut in 2015. What is really admirable about the restoration work done at the Museum is the

What’s outstanding about today’s drive of the 1984 Volvo B10M is that this exact one was the 50th B10M delivered to Westbus. When a company purchases and operates more than 160 of the same vehicle it certainly must be one heck of a bus. Today’s B10M, just as the original bus did, celebrates this milestone along its side. The distinctive Westbus colours are easily recognisable as we walk the aisles of the museum; the red and yellow can’t be mistaken. A feature we’d forgotten was the four-piece windscreen in lieu of a standard split or curved screen. This gives the extended vision of a curved screen, but would be easier to replace any of the four separate panels.

SIMPLICITY IS KEY Externally, simplicity is key. The radiators are in the front, with unencumbered access for all daily checks and easy-to-change headlights.

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There are buses here with important historic significance to our industry – it’s a timeline of change and growth preserved for future generations.

Top, Left: Fixtures are utilitarian, but built to last and still do a great job.

The mid-mount engine is accessed through a side hatch that despite being lower and tighter than most modern buses, is still easily accessible. It’s the small changes made to our modern vehicles that are the main points of difference, but all in all the simplicity was key to the success of the B10M model. The B10M has school bus desto typical for its era and lights with touches of chrome strips to highlight. The old-style destos

were simple to use and when they worked well they worked well. Kids on the bus will recall the lovely noise the two air-operated door control levers make when you activate them. We had to play with them a few times just to reminisce. Another feature you don’t often see is the separate cargo compartment behind the driver, fitted with stainless steel rails. We remember this compartment was always filled with baby prams

Above: Remember this? The Datafare 2000 ticket machine. Left: Old-school touches abound; The noise of the two air-operated doors in operation will catapult you back into the past. Below: Designated number 7457, she finished her life as a school bus in the Hunter Valley Opposite: This was the 50th Volvo B10M that Westbus bought, out of a total of 160.

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DRIVEN

VOLVO B10M MARK 1

The distinctive Westbus colours are easily recognisable as we walk the aisles of the museum; the red and yellow can’t be mistaken.

Above: This Volvo B10M Mark 1 is just one example of the stunning buses on display at the Sydney Bus Museum. Right: The fabric-covered passenger seats scream the 1980s, as does the black vinyl flooring. 52

and shopping trolleys; makes you wonder where all those things go on today’s buses? A good old fashioned feature is the dual door openings. Having the rear door makes disembarking a packed bus easier for passengers and certainly saved driver time. It’s an option that isn’t often adopted anymore, which many miss. The interior takes us back to buses of the past; strong and utilitarian, but with plenty of good space. The fabric-covered passenger seats scream the 1980s, as does the black vinyl flooring. The curved white gloss roof lining was just as we remembered, all utilitarian features made more to last than for good looks. The restoration internally is perfect. The dash and instruments are all pure B10M. Being easy to read and navigate makes this a simple

bus to operate. The driver’s cabin is roomy with a suspension seat, so there is some driver comfort for when you hit bumps. The mirrors are totally adequate with no complaints about driver vision; we’d like some blind spot mirrors but vision was acceptable for even today’s standards.

ON THE ROAD As soon as you get behind the wheel you feel it’s got a lot of oomph. At 245hp (183kW) at 2,200rpm the 9.6-litre six-cylinder Volvo THD100EC diesel engine certainly has the feel of power on tap for a vehicle that is well past its normal use-by date.

With the number of years B10Ms were kept in service, they often did over a million kilometres in their lifetime, so they had to be built tough and built to last. With Westbus purchasing the numbers of them that it did, this clearly shows they didn’t disappoint. As a driver, when you’re behind the wheel there is nothing certain to complain about, with the dual-circuit air brakes working really well for the old Volvo. The four-speed ZF 4HP500 automatic gearbox will also kick back a gear when needed and it moves through the gears nice and smoothly. It’s always surprising that the main differences

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DRIVEN

VOLVO B10M MARK 1

Another feature you don’t often see is the separate cargo compartment behind the driver, fitted with stainless steel rails.

Specs MAKE: Volvo MODEL: 1984 B10M CHASSIS: B10M Mark 1 – 7457 BODY: Custom Bus Euro II ENGINE: 9.6-litre six-cylinder Volvo THD100EC diesel TRANSMISSION: Four-speed ZF 4HP500 automatic gearbox POWER: 245hp@2,200rpm BRAKES: Dual-circuit air brakes, a spring-applied parking brake and a hydraulic gearbox retarder SEATING: 47

between driving a vehicle from this era in comparison to a modern bus are more the luxuries than the operating of the mechanical componentry. A feature we hadn’t seen for a while is the Datafare 2000 machine for ticket purchasing pre- the cashless systems of today – guess this is one feature we’ve been glad to see disappear from the workplace, but maybe our collective maths skills have suffered with no cash handling?

MEMORY LANE Yes, a great trip down memory lane today; personally, I spent many days in my youth waiting on the side of a road in Penrith

Top: Pushing out 245hp (183kW) @2,200rpm, the 9.6-litre sixcylinder Volvo THD100EC diesel engine is no slouch. Above: Easy access to the mechanical parts.

for a Westbus painted just like the 7457 to take me home. Built strong and built well, made to endure the tough rigors of daily route runs and the thousands of children that would have walked its aisle, the Volvo B10M was a standout workhorse of its era, preserved to perfection here at the Sydney Bus Museum. An impressive nostalgic drive today made possible by the tireless work of the volunteers and a must-see day out. Even by today’s standards, if this bus was at the depot and was doing a school run, few would complain. It just drives really, really well. It’s often said nothing good was made in the ’80s they’re wrong. Congratulations to the Sydney Bus Museum! Job well done.

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18/1/21 12:20 pm

DELIVERIES

DECEMBER 2020

Slight but optimistic bump in December

More brands getting in on the action brings hope for better 2021, exclusive ABC data reveals.

t’s not yet a repeat of the months we used to see with 100+ deliveries pre-Covid, but December’s bus and coach numbers show glimpses of optimism for a return to form in 2021. The final tally of 80 is 10 more than November, and includes a more diverse range of original equipment manufacturers and body building brands than previously. The most interesting development in the chassis sector is regular market leader Volvo easing to third with its lowest monthly tally for the year (13). Fellow Swede Scania instead took top spot with 26 deliveries. Mercedes-Benz had a good showing, moving up to second with its second-best figure for the year of 19, just below July’s 22 and well above November’s eight. Volgren held a firm grip at the top of the body building sector with 29 deliveries, maintaining a steady recent trend of around 30 (including two involving subsidiary Supportrans). Gemilang, seldom mentioned in this section, had its best month of the year with eight, benefiting from Mercedes-Benz’s busy month. A long list of builders followed with five or fewer.

Thermo King usually leads the air-conditioning sector and this month was no exception, occupying a whopping 62.5 per cent of the market. Its 50 reported deliveries is reminiscent of pre-Covid days. The only other brand to hit double figures here was Hispacold. Victoria continues to be, by far, the busiest state, with 37 per cent of deliveries recorded there. WA was next on 16 per cent, while NSW continues to lag behind on 15 per cent. Queensland follows on 13 per cent, while it’s worth mentioning Tasmania and SA had busier months than usual, with 10 and 9 per cent, respectively. Turn overleaf for comprehensive bus and coach delivery information for December. Please note all data is as supplied from manufacturers, at their discretion.

Gemilang, seldom mentioned in this section, had its best month of the year with eight, benefiting from MercedesBenz’s busy month.

ABC January 2021 busnews.com.au

ABC_401_062-63_Bus Deliveries column_FC.indd 62

18/01/2021 4:08:47 PM

Volgren 29 Gemilang 8 Precision Buses 6 BCI 5 Coach Design 5 Custom Bus 4 Irizar 4 Yutong 4 Elphinstone 3 Coach Concepts 2 Express Coaches 2 JBUS 2 P&D Coachworks 2 Volgren/Supportrans 2 Bonluck 1

SALES BY BODY Volgren held a firm grip at the top of the bodybuilding sector with 29 deliveries, maintaining a steady recent trend of around 30 (including two involving subsidiary Supportrans). Gemilang, seldom mentioned in this section, had its best month of the year with eight, benefiting from Mercedes-Benz’s busy month. A long list of builders followed with five or fewer.

Scania Higer 1

9% SA

VIC

10% TAS

13% QLD

37%

SALES BY AIR-CONDITIONER

Thermo King 50 Hispacold 10 Coachair 5 Denso 5 Spheros 3

Percentage by

REGION

Cling-Yutong N/A Kingtec Konvekta MCC

15% NSW

2 2 1 1 1

SCANIA 26

16%

MERCEDES-BENZ 19

VOLVO 13

BCI 5

MAN 5

HINO 4

Sales by chassis

YUTONG 4

The most interesting development in the chassis sector is regular market leader Volvo easing to third with its lowest monthly tally for the year (13). Fellow Swede Scania instead took top spot with 26 deliveries. Mercedes-Benz had a good showing, moving up to second with its second-best figure for the year of 19, just below July’s 22 and well above November’s eight.

BUSTECH 3

BONLUCK 1

busnews.com.au January 2021 ABC

ABC_401_062-63_Bus Deliveries column_FC.indd 63

18/01/2021 4:09:12 PM

DECEMBER 2020

MANUFACTURER, OPERATOR & LOCATION BCI

BONLUCK BUS TECH HINO

MAN

MERC-BENZ

SCANIA

VOLVO

Coal River Coaches Sainty's North East Bus Service

TAS TAS

The Entrance Red Bus Service

CHASSIS (Model)

HP*

Rear / Front

Emissions standard

1 1

Proma Low Floor Classmaster

BCI BCI

207 320

R R

Euro 5 Euro 5

A: Auto M: Ma AS: Aut O: Opti

A A

NSW

Citirider 12

BCI

300

Euro 5

VIC

Classmaster

BCI

320

Euro 5

Encounter Lutheran School Stradbroke Island Buses

SA QLD

1 1

Proma Citystar

BCI Bonluck

207 300

R R

Euro 5 Euro 5

A A

Metro Tas

TAS

BusTech XDI

Elphinstone

300

Euro 6

N/A N/A N/A

NSW NSW QLD

1 1 2

RN8J RK8J Poncho

P&D Coachworks P&D Coachworks JBUS

286 286 185

R R R

Euro 5 Euro 5 Euro 5

A A A

Surfside Buslines Surfside Buslines

QLD QLD

2 1

RR8 19.320 IC RR8 19.320 IC

Volgren Volgren

320 320

R R

Euro 5 Euro 5

A A

Quinns Buses Yackandandah

NSW VIC

1 1

RR8 19.290 IC RR8 19.290 IC

Coach Design Coach Design

290 290

R R

Euro 5 Euro 5

A A

N/A N/A

VIC VIC

1 1

OC500RF E5 1936 OC500LE E6

Express Volgren

360 360

R R

Euro 5 Euro 6

A A

N/A

QLD

OC500RF E5 1936

Volgren

360

Euro 5

N/A

QLD

OC500LE E6

Custom

360

Euro 6

N/A

VIC

OC500LE

Gemilang

299

Euro 5

N/A

VIC

OC500LE

Gemilang

299

Euro 5

N/A

QLD

OC500LE E6

Custom

360

Euro 6

N/A

TAS

OC500LE E6

Volgren

360

Euro 6

N/A

TAS

OC500LE E6

Volgren

360

Euro 6

N/A

TAS

OC500LE E6

Volgren

360

Euro 6

N/A

VIC

O500RS

Irizar

348

Euro 5

N/A

VIC

O500RS

Irizar

348

Euro 5

N/A

NSW

OC500LE E6

Custom

360

Euro 6

N/A

NSW

OC500LE E6

Gemilang

360

Euro 6

N/A

NSW

OC500LE E6

Gemilang

360

Euro 6

N/A

NSW

OC500LE E6

Gemilang

360

Euro 6

N/A

NSW

OC500LE E6

Gemilang

360

Euro 6

N/A N/A

NSW NSW

1 1

OC500LE E6 OC500LE E6

Gemilang Gemilang

360 360

R R

Euro 6 Euro 6

A A

AAT Kings Coach Company Baldwin Buses

VIC VIC

1 1

K 440 EB6X2*4 K 310 IB4X2

Coach Design Custom Bus

440 310

R R

Euro 5 Euro 5

O A

CDC Sunshine

VIC

K 310 UB4X2

Volgren

310

Euro 5

CDC Sunshine

VIC

K 310 UB4X2

Volgren

310

Euro 5

Coles Coaches

VIC

K 310 IB4X2

Coach Design

310

Euro 5

Dept of Public Transport Infrastructure

K 320 UB4X2

Precision Buses

320

Euro 6

Dept of Public Transport Infrastructure

K 320 UB4X2

Precision Buses

320

Euro 6

Gippsland Bus Services

VIC

K 310 IB4X2

Coach Concepts

310

Euro 5

Irizar Asia Pacific Pty Ltd

VIC

K 310 IB4X2

Irizar

310

Euro 5

L C Dyson's Bus Services

VIC

K 310 IB4X2

Irizar

310

Euro 5

L C Dyson's Bus Services

VIC

K 410 EB6X2*4

Coach Concepts

410

Euro 6

McHarry's Bus Lines

VIC

K 310 IB4X2

Express Coaches

310

Euro 5

Mt Gravatt Coach & Travel

QLD

K 310 UB4X2

Volgren

310

Euro 5

NTI Assessing

K 320 UB4X2

Precision Buses

320

Euro 6

Ventura Bus Lines

VIC

K 320 UB4X2

Volgren

320

Euro 6

Ventura Bus Lines

VIC

K 320 UB4X2

Volgren

320

Euro 6

Ventura Bus Lines

VIC

K 320 UB4X2

Volgren

310

Euro 6

WBL

VIC

K 310 IB4X2

Volgren / Supportrans

310

Euro 5

WBL WBL

VIC VIC

1 1

K 360 IB4X2 K 310 IB4X2

Scania Higer Touring Volgren

360 310

R R

Euro 6 Euro 5

A A

Perth Transport Authorities Perth Transport Authorities

WA WA

7 2

B8RLE B8RLEA

Volgren Volgren

320 350

R R

Euro 6 Euro 6

A A

VIC

B8RLE

Volgren

330

Euro 5

NSW VIC

1 1

B11R B8R

Coach Design Volgren

460 330

R R

Euro 6 Euro 5

A A

N/A N/A

WA WA

1 1

D7 D7

Yutong Yutong

360 360

R R

Euro 5 Euro 5

A A

N/A

T12

Yutong

360

Euro 5

N/A

T12

Yutong

360

Euro 5

Port Stephen Coaches Bacchus Marsh Coaches

TRANSM

BODY BUILDER

Boyles Bus Service

CDC Victoria

YUTONG

ENGINES

UNITS

DELIVERIES

ABC January 2021 busnews.com.au

ABC_401_064-65_Bus Deliveries Table FC.indd 64

TOTAL DELIVERIES 80

18/01/2021 4:11:54 PM

TRANS MAKE

issions andard

A: Automatic M: Manual AS: Auto-Shift O: Opticruise

uro 5 uro 5

A A

ZF Allison

NUMBER OF SEATS

AXLES

TRANSMISSION

BODY LENGTH

AIR-CON (Brand)

Fixed Coach

2 2

8.65 12.3

MCC Thermo King

29 57 45

(metres)

uro 5

Allison

12.45

Denso

uro 5

12.30

Thermoking

uro 5 uro 5

A A

ZF Allison

2 2

8.9 12.5

Kingrec Spheros

uro 6

10-12.9

Thermo King

uro 5 uro 5 uro 5

A A A

ZF ZF Aisin

2 2 2

12 12 8

Thermo King N/A Denso

uro 5 uro 5

A A

ZF ZF

2 2

10-12.9 10-12.9

Thermo King Thermo King

uro 5 uro 5

A A

ZF ZF

2 2

10-12.9 10-12.9

Thermo King Thermo King

uro 5 uro 6

A A

ZF ZF

2 2

13.5M 13.5M

Thermo King Thermo King

uro 5

13.5M

Thermo King

uro 6

13.5M

Denso

uro 5

12.5M

Thermo King

uro 5

12.5M

Thermo King

uro 6

13.5M

Thermo King

uro 6

13.5M

Thermo King

uro 6

13.5M

Thermo King

uro 6

13.5M

Thermo King

uro 5

12.5M

Hispacold

uro 5

12.5M

Hispacold

uro 6

13.5M

Thermo King

uro 6

13.5M

Thermo King

uro 6

13.5M

Thermo King

uro 6

13.5M

Thermo King

uro 6

13.5M

Thermo King

uro 6 uro 6

A A

ZF ZF

2 2

13.5M 13.5M

Thermo King Thermo King

uro 5 uro 5

O A

Scania ZF

3 2

13.5 12.5

Thermo King Thermo King

uro 5

Coachair

uro 5

Coachair

uro 5

Scania

12.3

Denso

uro 6

Scania

Hispacold

uro 6

11.7

Hispacold

uro 5

12.5

Thermo King

uro 5

12.5

Hispacold

uro 5

12.3

Hispacold

uro 6

Scania

N/A

14.5

Thermo King

uro 5

12.3

Coachair

uro 5

12.5

Thermo King

uro 6

12.5

Hispacold

uro 6

12.5

Thermo King

uro 6

Scania

12.3

Thermo King

uro 6

12.5

Thermo King

uro 5

Thermo King

uro 6 uro 5

A A

ZF ZF

2 2

12.3 12.3

Konvekta Thermo King

uro 6 uro 6

A A

ZF ZF

2 3

10-12.9 10-12.9

Thermo King Thermo King

uro 5

10-12.9

Coachair

uro 6 uro 5

A A

I-shift ZF

3 2

10-12.9 10-12.9

N/A Thermo King

uro 5 uro 5

A A

Allison Allison

2 2

12.4 12.4

Cling-Yutong Cling-Yutong

uro 5

12.3

Spheros

uro 5

12.3

Spheros

57 39 – 52 57 57 18 57 57 45 41 57 – 57 51 57 57 49 47 47 47 57 57 – – – – – – – – 57 – – 57 – 43 57 57 57 – 57 – 43 – – – 57 57 57 – – – – 57 53 53 53 53

APPLICATION

Recliners

Metro

Long Distance

Charter

City or Route

– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – 49 – – – – – – – – – 58 – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –

– – – – – 48 – – – – – – – – – 49 – – – – – – – – – – 53 44 44 44 44 44 44 – – 41 41 – 43 – – – – – – 44 – 44 44 44 – – – 41 X 41 – – – – – –

– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – x – – – – – – – – – x – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –

– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – X – X X X X

X – X – – X X – – X – – – – – X – – X X X X X X – – X X X X X X X – – x x – x x – – – – – x x x x x – – – X X X – – – – – –

School

– X – X X X

– X X – X X X X X – X – – – – – – – X X – – – – – – – – x – – x – – x x x – x – – – – – x – x – – – – X – – – –

SEATING

SEAT BELTS

McConnell Sege

N Y

Ster

Sege

Sege APM

Y N/A

Styleride

Styleride Styleride Styleride

Y N N

Styleride Styleride

Y Y

McConnell Styleride

Y Y

Styleride McConnell

Y N

McConnell

N/A

McConnell

Custom Metro

McConnell

Sege

Custom Metro

McConnell

McConnell McConnell

N N

Sege McConnell

Y Y

McConnell

Styleride

Precision Bus

Styleride

McConnell

Styleride

McConnell

Styleride

McConnell

Styleride

Styleride Styleride

N Y

McConnell McConnell

N N

McConnell

N/A McConnell

Y Y

N/A N/A

Y Y

N/A

busnews.com.au January 2021 ABC

ABC_401_064-65_Bus Deliveries Table FC.indd 65

18/01/2021 4:12:13 PM

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18/1/21 12:19 pm

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ABC 401.als - Base Edition 67

18/1/21 1:17 pm

A Solution for All Requirements

Custom Denning, an amalgamation of Australia’s two oldest body builders, have been producing quality buses supplied to meet the expectations of the Australian customer. Adventurer is something different, a vehicle that has taken the lessons of reliability and toughness from the past, and combined with today’s technology. Secure your slot today for quick delivery! P: 02 9134 3510 W: custombus.com.au

ABC 401 OSBC.indd 68

Mick Neskes National Sales Manager 0422 224 117 Grant Mascord National Contracts Manager A New Beginning 0413 036 651

18/1/21 11:45 am

Australasian Bus & Coach 401 January 2021

Articles inside

driven | volvo b10m mark 1

In focus | go west

operator | glenorie coaches

news | the front line

obituary | michael apps

overstory | scania hybrid

In focus | moscow e-bus

In focus | cdc volvo hybrids

editorial | ignition