Australasian Bus & Coach 430 June 2023

FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEM

The proven cooling effect and long discharge time of the Fogmaker Fire Protection System has a definite advantage regarding battery fires.

Our advanced high-pressure water-wise technology has been tested on lithium-ion battery fires with documented evidence that the long discharge and cooling properties effectively suppress the fire! This in turn, allows the driver crucial time to protect and remove the passengers from immediate danger.

FOGMAKER is tried and tested with over 15,000 installations in Australia. It is the preferred fire suppression in the Australian Bus Industry. No mess, no power, no worries. Fail-Safe and environmentally friendly.

United Safety offers Australia-wide coverage with 24/7 support. You’ll have a dedicated account manager and after sales service with a mobile fleet of technicians ready to roll when required.

United Safety is your complete fire company not only in the transport industry but across all aspects of fire protection.

Other available fire systems from United Safety:

Comfort, convenience and capacity

The D12 series

Yutong is the world’s largest bus manufacturer – combining technology, design and reliability to deliver consistent quality and drive comfort at every turn. Each vehicle is built with safety and longevity in mind – to provide a transport experience you can trust.

As a multipurpose bus, the D12 brings comfort and style with its air suspension and fully adjustable high back luxury seats. The premium option for schools, mining or charter operations, it stands tall in delivering robust safety and reliability to its drivers, passengers and operators.

A true crowd pleaser.

Celebrating safety

n the Australian bus and coach industry, there are a few buzz words at the moment. Electric buses and zero-emissions tend to dominate manufacturer conversations, as does driver retention and recruitment when it comes to industrial relations for operators. Yet there’s one topic throughout all parts of the bus and coach sector that has been a constant over the decades. Safety.

In light of recent tragic events, safety has become pivotal for the industry.

For diesel vehicles, safety traditionally looked like collision protection, seat belts and airbags. But when zero-emissions buses and coaches began to steadily proliferate the Australian market, the idea of best safety practices has taken on a whole new meaning.

In just the past two years alone, the term safety in the bus industry has opened its umbrella to now encompass fire suppression for electric lithium-ion bus batteries, hydrogen fuel-cell protection, thermal management and air purification against the likes of COVID-19.

No one sums up this shimmering definition of zero-emissions bus and coach safety better than United Safety & Survivability Corporation.

As seen on our cover for this month, United Safety offers a wide range of products to protect both passengers and drivers, as well as those working on or driving near a bus. From page 20 onwards, United Safety has focused on the Fogmaker safety system, tailoring the successful product from diesel models to the unique safety challenge that zero-emissions vehicles now present.

The smorgasbord of companies involved in this edition’s feature on zero-emissions safety practices highlights the variety of meanings safety has in the local bus and coach industry.

For manufacturer Volvo Bus Australia, safety has graduated from the invention of the seat belt through to electric battery cell chemistry and unique ways of protecting important infrastructure,

as can be seen on page 25 – enjoy the reference to Volvo’s onion!

For Siemens, its best zero-emissions practices came in the form of a recent European expedition to analyse various charging infrastructure projects. Olivia Laskowski sat down with ABC from page 34 to discuss what the technology company learnt from its visits.

Other manufacturers such as Scania are putting their own spin on safety. The big brand has won awards for its recent safety innovations for not just drivers and passengers, but workshop staff too (see page 29).

Webasto finishes the zero-emissions safety feature on page 46 with information about its CV Standard Battery that is keeping electric buses safer than ever.

In other news this month, ABC takes a deep dive into what the proposed

Tasmanian stadium and AFL team debate means for a potential bus network revolution in the Apple Isle, and talks to BLK Auto about the next step in its brand evolution from page 32.

Bus Stop has added to its ever-expanding zero-emissions fleet with a King Long EVolution Complete model that adds a critical piece to its electric bus puzzle on page 48. And, in more good news for Yutong buses in Australia, VDI recently won a major tender to fulfil one of Australia’s largest electric bus orders for the nation’s capital.

All of this good news proves the need for safety technology to be more innovative and impressive than ever before. This latest edition of ABC shows the local industry is in good hands with these safety systems. We hope you enjoy this month’s edition!

Once upon a time safety was just an initial concept involving some belts and a door. ABC’s focus on zero-emissions safety and fire suppression in our June magazine shows that the concept of bus and coach safety has evolved rapidly over the years

“As seen on our cover for this month, United Safety offers a wide range of products to protect both passengers and drivers, as well as those working

430

contents

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in the know

8. editorial | celebrating safety  ABC’s focus on zero-emissions safety and fire suppression in our June magazine shows that the concept of bus and coach safety has evolved rapidly over the years

12. news | all aboard

An overview of the latest Australasian and international bus and coach news that you need to know

19. column | bic BIC’s technical team gives the lowdown on what’s been happening during a busy period for the body

features

20. cover story | united safety

ENHANCING SAFETY SOLUTIONS

As the only supplier of Fogmaker Fire Suppression systems in Australia, United Safety is the market leader in bus fire suppression and safety systems. It took its standing to the next level courtesy of an intensive search to redefine electric bus safety systems down under

25. safety feature | volvo BUILDING ON THE BELT Volvo’s history is steeped in pioneering safety technology. From the seat belt to the complex HVIL loop, Volvo Bus is pushing the boundaries of safety capabilities on its bus fleet

29. safety feature | scania

AWARD WINNING SAFETY

When Scania Australia won a major HVIA safety award last year, it did so by going the extra mile with its safety systems for the servicing and maintenance of its zeroemissions buses and coaches

32. feature | blk auto BROADENING THE BRAND

In just two years, BLK Auto has become a key part of the Queensland bus and coach industry. With recent changes to its management team, it’s now eyeing national expansion as part of the company’s new strategic direction

34. feature | siemens

TAKING CHARGE

Siemens is already innovating in Australia when it comes to electric charging infrastructure design. It took its knowledge to the next level when it sent an expert over to Europe for an educational site tour to three unique depots

38. column | bus sa

UNIQUE APPROACH

The return of Bus SA’s conference resulted in a different approach, calling in external experts to discuss how to better market the bus and coach industry

40. feature | tasmania bus network

CAUGHT IN THE CROSSFIRE

For the state’s bus industry, revolutionary transport plans around the stadium and AFL team announcement hinge on the outcome of the current debate engulfing the Apple Isle

44. feature | yutong ELECTRIC FEELING

When the winner for a major electric bus tender in Canberra was announced, it was a milestone moment for the history of the ACT government as well as VDI and Yutong buses in Australia

46. safety feature | webasto SAFETY THROUGH QUALITY

Webasto’s latest CV Standard Battery and other additions showcase the company’s willingness to go the extra mile to keep Australian electric buses as safe as possible

48. feature | bus stop CHARGING FORWARD

Bus Stop has worked with its manufacturing partner King Long to unveil a unique vehicle designed to support the industry with a well-built and great value offering

51. competition | best bus BROKEN HILL BEAUTY

The June winner of ABC’s Best Bus competition is well deserved following months of terrific photos, with this month’s taking the cake

departments

54. bus marketplace | classifieds  FOR SALE!

Check out all these great listings from some of the leading bus and coach companies on the planet. Have a look and see what you might find

57. events   INDUSTRY EVENTS FOR 2023

Be sure not to miss out on an opportunity for these fantastic in person events

58. factory facts | bus deliveries  MONTHLY RESULTS

We have all the latest bus and coach supplier sales data collected and recorded for you review, check out how the market has performed in the past month

62. back seat | news  THE GREAT KANE

In the months since bus enthusiast Peter Kane’s passing, the industry has found many ways to honour his legacy as a wonderful bus photographer and admirer

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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.

Australasian Bus & Coach (ABC) magazine is owned by Prime Creative Media. All material in ABC is copyright and no part may be reproduced or copied in any form or by any means (graphic, electronic or mechanical including information and retrieval systems) without written permission of the publisher.

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VICTORIA ANNOUNCES NEW MELBOURNE BUS CONTRACTS TO BENEFIT PASSENGERS

The Victorian government says it is delivering new metropolitan bus contracts that support the state’s transition to a zero-emissions bus network, providing more modern and reliable services to get Victorians where they need to go.

Victorian public transport minister Ben Carroll says the government is in the

midst of recontracting 30 per cent of the metropolitan bus network as part of its push towards a more sustainable bus fleet – with all new buses on Victoria’s public transport routes to be zero-emissions from 2025. Creating a greener fleet is also part of Victoria’s Bus Plan to improve passenger experience and deliver value for money

for Victorians, with new, greener buses critical to the state government’s goal of net zero emissions by 2045.

Under the recontracting process, the market will be asked to submit proposals on how to boost passenger experience, deliver network and operating efficiencies and optimise the transition to zero emissions buses, building on the government’s $20 million Zero Emissions Bus (ZEB) Trial.

The trial is informing the transition of around 4,000 diesel buses in the state’s public fleet, including around 2,200 in regional Victoria, to zero-emissions.

The trial is also fostering vital local industry partnerships, such as with energy providers and manufacturers.

The Victorian government will support existing and any new operators through the transition to the new contracts, which will commence on July 1, 2025.

“These new metropolitan bus contracts support Victoria’s Bus Plan and will help tackle emissions on the bus network –which is critical to Victoria meeting our commitment of net zero emissions by 2045,” Carroll says.

HINO AND FUSO MERGE AS MAJOR FOUR PARTY DEAL COMBINES

In a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed last month, Daimler Truck, Mitsubishi Fuso, Hino and Toyota Motor Corporation have all decided to combine to accelerate advanced technologies development, with Hino and Fuso merging.

The MoU means Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus Corporation (MFTBC) and Hino Motors will merge as early as next year.

Daimler Truck, MFTBC, Hino, and Toyota will collaborate toward achieving carbon neutrality and creating a prosperous mobility society by developing connected/ autonomous and automated/ shared electric (CASE) technologies and strengthening the commercial vehicle business on a global scale.

From a local perspective, Daimler Truck Australia Pacific President and CEO Daniel Whitehead is celebrating the news.

“This is exciting news for both Fuso and Hino in Australia,” he says.

“We look forward to sharing more details closer to the agreement conclusion.”

Above:

Members

MFTBC and Hino will merge on an equal footing and collaborate in the areas of commercial vehicle development, procurement and production. They will build a globally competitive Japanese commercial vehicle manufacturer.

Daimler Truck and Toyota will then equally invest in the merged company, allowing all parties to collaborate on the development of hydrogen and other CASE technologies to support the competitiveness of the new company.

Common to the corporate philosophies of all four companies is the desire to contribute to a prosperous society through mobility. To continue to be an essential force of transformation in the world, the four companies intend to promote the use of environmentally friendly vehicles and increase the value of mobility in the world’s social systems. By joining forces, MFTBC and Hino will create synergies and enhance the competitiveness of Japanese truck manufacturers, helping to strengthen the foundation of the Japanese and Asian automotive industries and contributing to their customers, stakeholders and society.

Both Daimler and Toyota count global full lineups tailored to local needs among their corporate strengths and—toward achieving carbon neutrality—value multi-pathways that provide diverse options based on local conditions and how their customers use vehicles.

of all four companies following the signing of the MoU

Sustainability beyond emissions

At Volvo Buses, sustainability is about more than just care for the environment – it also extends to social and ethical responsibility. Our Volvo BZL Electric product is a testament to our broader sustainability commitment, as we work towards the UN Sustainable Development Goals with our trusted global partners, ensuring our electric offering is sustainable in more ways than one. From committing to supply chain audits to uphold responsible material sourcing and ethical labour, to encouraging remanufactured parts and battery circularity, to maintaining stringent data and cyber security, we are striving to ensure our Volvo BZL Electric is sustainable in every sense of the word. So, not only do you get clean, silent and efficient cities when you Go Electric With Volvo, but you contribute to a brighter, more sustainable future for everyone.

With the Volvo BZL Electric

VENTURA DISMISSES COMPANY SALE RUMOURS AMID STRATEGIC REVIEW

Victorian bus and coach transport operator Ventura Bus Lines has dismissed claims that the company is looking to sell the business, calling reports inaccurate.

On May 25, Bloomberg reported that Ventura Group is considering a potential sale and has held discussions with financial advisers.

Bloomberg says that a sale could potentially result in hundreds of millions of dollars if completed for the family-owned company.

This was supplemented later in May with reports saying Ventura appointed Goldman Sachs, a global investment company, to help assist with the sale.

However, in a response supplied to ABC, Ventura Group has labelled these reports as inaccurate.

Ventura managing director Andrew Cornwall told ABC the operator is undertaking a strategic review of the business to assess the available options for the company as it enters a new phase.

Cornwall says the company has an obligation to its shareholders to regularly assess the strategic options for the business.

“As you would expect, we regularly receive inbound interest in the Ventura business from third parties,” Cornwall told ABC.

“To assist with this process, Ventura has appointed Goldman Sachs.”

FRIENDS OF THE EARTH RALLIES AT VICTORIAN PARLIAMENT FOR BETTER BUSES IN THE WEST

Lobby group Friends of the Earth held a rally on the steps of Victoria’s Parliament House in May to call for better bus services in western suburbs.

The rally comes after the state government recently released its Better Bus Plan and announced it would be changing its Melbourne bus contract system in a clear focus towards the uptake of electric buses in the state.

Friends of the Earth responded, saying electric buses won’t help fix bus network issues in fast-growing western suburbs.

In May, the group convened on Parliament House, rallying with signs and slogans calling for better buses in the west.

“We need buses that people can actually use and rely upon,” a Friends of the Earth speaker said through a megaphone.

“This can be easily done. We want better buses for the west because the west deserves the best.”

As the rally’s size grew, more speakers called on the Victorian government to review its bus plan and provide updated networks in western regions.

“The new Victorian bus plan will be great for the uptake of electric buses, but what’s the point of having electric buses that have no one on them?” the speaker said.

“We need better bus services out west, it’s as simple as that.”

Friends of the Earth says with the Victorian government expected to slash public transport funding, key bus reform is expected to be cut.

The group, through its Better Buses campaign, says there’s opportunity to invest in a transformation of the bus network that requires less funding and time than other major projects while ensuring that Melbourne’s west experience improved access.

Friends of the Earth Sustainable Cities community organiser Elyse Cunningham says the key message

“We want to see the bus routes transformed from the long, convoluted lines to a simple grid with buses running in straight lines down main roads, allowing for 10-minute frequencies,” Cunningham told ABC.

“We want the electrification of the fleet to help reduce emissions, but it’s one piece of the puzzle.

“Electric buses are great, but there is no point in electrifying the bus network if they don’t fix the routes, as people still won’t use them as intended.”

Above: Friends of the Earth rallying in Victoria

New generation of modular DC charging for bus depots

The next generation of SICHARGE UC is now available. The adapted, sleek design features a more compact housing, enhanced durability and easier serviceability. Improved rated power function and options for combining chargers into power blocks enable greater flexibility and faster charging. Multiple connection options offer the freedom to choose between dispensers, pantographs or hoods. Thanks to the Siemens Device Manager, operators can carry out services, diagnostics and software updates remotely.

• Interoperable with Australia's leading bus brands

• Scalable dispensers allow connection of up to four busses per charging centre

• Optimised charging with Siemens Depotfinity monitoring and load management charging software

• Designed to minimise CAPEX and OPEX

siemens.com.au/emobility

NEW TICKETING SYSTEM PROVIDER PLEDGES TO BRING VICTORIAN BUS TICKETS FORWARD

The Victorian government has announced that it has changed its Myki public transport ticketing system with the signing of a new contract.

Instead of re-signing current operator NTT Data for another contract worth $100 million a year, Victorian transport minister Ben Carroll announced in May that the government has decided to go with international public transport ticketing specialist Conduent.

In a deal that will be worth $1.7 billion over 15 years, the Myki system, which was contracted in 2007, will undergo an overhaul, with Conduent’s contract meaning the ticketing system will change from a card-based system to an account-based one.

“We’re pleased to announce that Conduent will run our smart ticketing services in Victoria,” Carroll says.

“Conduent already runs services from Montreal and New Jersey to Paris and all over the world. It’ll be a state-based ticketing solution that will incorporate all V/ Line and bus services to provide tickets for all modes of public transport in Victoria.”

Conduent’s new system will begin to be rolled out this year, with testing set to get underway next year on certain Melbourne and greater Victorian services.

Conduent Transportation, along with its partner Convergint, says it is honoured to have been selected to provide the next generation of Victoria’s PT ticketing system.

“As a leading global provider of smart mobility solutions, Conduent is building on its strong industry position in fare collection,” Conduent Transportation vice president of PR and external communications Sean Collins says.

“Victoria will now join major cities and regions around the world supported by Conduent Transportation, including Paris, South Australia, Flanders, Venice, Abu Dhabi, Montreal, Mexico City and the state of New Jersey. The decision reflects Conduent’s proven capabilities to deliver a modern and effective ticketing system that will improve access to public transport, and validates Conduent’s plans for geographic expansion, including Australia.

“We look forward to delivering state-of-the-art technologies and services to enhance the traveling experience for both Victorian locals and visitors.”

Instead of relying on a Myki card to touch on and off, the new solution, which will still be known under the Myki name, will allow passengers to touch on and off with credit cards, smart phones or smart watches and have an account charged.

Despite this change, Carroll says passengers will still have an option to use a physical card to touch on and off.

“We know that with more modern day transport options, everyone wants ease of access and a simple solution,” he says.

“Transport users will notice a difference through a range of trials beginning next year. We’ve learnt a lot of lessons through Myki, so this two-year period will help update the system.”

Carroll says there’ll be some hardware overhaul required in the next two years to ensure the Conduent system is fitted to a range of Victorian services.

With paper tickets still being the main way of securing tickets in regional Victoria, Carroll says this new state-wide solution will incorporate the school bus network and provide a solution that will run on all public transport systems.

INTERESTING NEW PASSENGER

What’s the weirdest thing you’ve ever brought onto a bus? Throughout our years as teenagers I’m sure there would be some funny answers, but do any rank in comparison to trying to bring a goat onboard? A Nigerian man in April was barred entry to a public bus when he tried to hop on with his pet goat. In the end, he wasn’t allowed to bring his friend on, but he found an inventive way to still get to where he needed to go, holding onto the goat with a rope outside that went along with the bus.

BRINGING FUN VIA COFFEE BUSES

In Fort Worth, America, a husband and wife team have combined to bring a whole bunch of fun to locals via the joys of coffee, and a bus. Brian and Brina Kimes are the head roasters and owners of Fun Bus Coffee Roasters, which travels within a 20 mile radius around Fort Worth to ship for free small batches of coffees via an exciting bus. If there’s anything better than getting your morning cuppa, then it’s getting it delivered via a fun bus.

SPREADING PINK JOY

In India, the recently launched Karachi Pink Bus is going from strength to strength. The beautiful big pink bus was put into service to transport only women around the city in an initiative from the government to keep women safe on their public transport journeys. The exciting bus has stood out on Karachi roads, creating smiles and making trips more fun for local women.

SCANIA SUPPLY OF NEW GENERATION CITY BUS CHASSIS UNAFFECTED BY EUROPEAN CLOSURE

Scania Australia has soothed any fears, saying the recent European plant closure will have no impact on local chassis models.

Following the recent announcement that Scania Group globally has decided to close its production plant in Poland to go into a new direction, Scania Australia has calmed any fears about a local impact.

Scania Australia says the supply of its New Generation Bus chassis for city bus applications remains unaffected by the recent announcements in Europe.

“The recent announcement of the cessation of the production of Scania complete bus bodies at the production facility in Poland, including production of the full Low Floor C-Chassis will have no effect on the supply of chassis for the Australian market,” Scania Australia Bus and Power Solutions Director of Sales Julian Gurney told ABC.

“Australia has always been a low entry city bus market and Scania’s modular K-chassis range has filled the requirements for the industry since its introduction in 2006 to meet the requirements of Euro 4 emission legislation requirements.”

Gurney says the new full range of low entry city bus options, now available with hybrid-electric and Euro 6 compliant diesel powertrains, alongside the first 100 per cent battery electric chassis poised to hit the road in South Australia, means there are now models available for all Australian states and territories.

Scania Australia will continue to offer these, with its battery electric vehicle range

set to future proof its customers well into the next decade and beyond.

“The Scania New Bus Generation city, school and coach product are all based on the Scania K-chassis and we look forward to the continuing support and acceptance of the NBG range in Australia, which we have seen since launch in the summer of 2022,” Gurney says.

“The pressure on the body building

industry at both global and local levels is well documented, with the BIC’s recent paper on the challenges facing the industry highlighted to the various state and federal government departments with a view to raising awareness of the seriousness – across all areas of government – of the severity of the impact of the cost increases across the entire supply chain.”

“Scania Australia says the supply of its New Generation Bus chassis for city bus applications remains unaffected by the recent announcements in Europe.”

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For

EVENTS@BIC.ASN.AU

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Important updates

Never has there been a time in recent history when there have been such significant changes in the pipeline that could fundamentally change what the bus industry does and the technology we use.

The BIC Technical Team have been busy supporting the industry with the many technical aspects of these changes and opportunities. Given the importance of some of the issues we thought we would also take this opportunity to communicate with you some of the important projects in the technical arenas Luke Hardy and Dean Moule have been deeply immersed in.

The first of the Zero Emission Bus (ZEB) advisories has now been finalised by Luke and is scheduled for release in July. Once released it will provide concise guidance to manufacturers, suppliers and operators on the technical specifications and standards that BIC recommend be included as part of any ZEB. It includes a detailed overview of two forthcoming Australian Design Rules: ADR 109 – Electric powertrain safety and ADR 110 –Hydrogen fueled vehicle safety. Also included are

then engaging directly with TfNSW, who were very appreciative of the industry collaboration. These standards are expected to be published on the TfNSW Standards Portal in the coming months. We are building a collaborative relationship with TfNSW to ensure the best outcomes for our industry.

From a general regulatory and standards perspective, BIC continues to advocate to governments for harmonisation with industry standards.

The federal government recently undertook consultation on Acoustic Vehicle Alerting Systems (AVAS). While it was aimed at passenger cars and light vehicles only, BIC thought it important to provide feedback given the potential ripple effect such new laws will eventually have on the bus industry once they are applied at a wider scale. In this feedback, three key areas were identified as requiring further work and consideration: driver’s workplace noise, public noise pollution and local testing of systems.

The Queensland Electrical Safety Act is also currently under review by the Queensland government and BIC have also been working closely with QBIC to review and prepare a submission. The government review has several wide-reaching recommendations, which, if implemented, would mean only ‘licensed electrical workers’ can carry out electrical work on the electrical components when the vehicle is being serviced or repaired.

recommendations regarding Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) of components used in buses, based on the European Regulation EU ECE R10.

The following two advisories cover other key areas such as workplace safety, Australian Standard AS3752, signage and first responders’ information. Work on these are underway and BIC members have the opportunity to provide input to the advisories as they are drafted.

BIC appreciates the recent industry feedback we received on two proposed Transport for New South Wales (TfNSW) standards. These standards cover mounting of electrical equipment and electronic systems requirements. Since coming on board two months ago, our new National Technical Manager Dean Moule has been busy reviewing the drafts and industry feedback and

BIC’s view is we should, with the support of government, continue to upskill existing industry personnel with EV competency. This can be achieved through post apprenticeship qualification or accreditation such as those offered by TAFE Queensland and OEM specific courses. This is something the automotive industry has been doing in Australia, Europe and the USA for a decade now.

Further to our April update, BIC are also lobbying the government to recognise the plight of our industry suppliers who are bearing the brunt of high inflation, parts and shipping cost increases, and labour shortage. Our advocacy document was submitted to the federal government as a joint industry policy position compiled with our supplier members.

All that said and we haven’t even begun to provide Disability Standards (DSAPT) or ADR updates, which we will share in coming months!

BIC’s technical team gives the lowdown on what’s been happening during a busy period for the national bus and coach body.

“BIC’s view is we should, with the support of government, continue to upskill existing industry personnel with EV competency.”

ENHANCING SAFETY SOLUTIONS

As a leading supplier of safety technology systems into the bus and coach industry, United Safety’s Australian business has been successful in providing fire suppression products for internal combustion engine (ICE) and other diesel vehicles for almost 20 years.

As it headed into 2023, United Safety undertook a risk management approach and broadened its strategy to the growing number of zero-emissions buses hitting Australian roads.

“As the distributor of Fogmaker International products in Australia, we knew that Fogmaker had been looking at zero-emissions bus safety for many years in Europe,” United Safety Australia General Manager Danny Dries told ABC.

“Prior to 2022, Fogmaker and United Safety had catered for diesel combustion engines protecting high heat sources.

“Going into 2023, we began shifting

our core strategy from diesel powered vehicles to concentrating on protecting zero-emissions buses, operators and passengers.”

Despite its extensive experience in bus and coach safety systems, this was a new area of knowledge and risk management for United Safety to get its collective head around. Instead of waiting for the industry to complete the shift to zero-emissions vehicles, United Safety got on the front foot, proactively beginning to conduct external research globally to learn which of its products was best suited to fighting electrical thermal events.

Throughout this sustainable transition, United Safety ensured it kept its safety focus intact. Like always, it ensured assets and people were put at the forefront of its product development.

With ties to European bus operations, Fogmaker International already had global experience in catering for zero-emissions buses. United Safety tapped into this,

working with the company to decipher what designs were best to introduce into the Australian market to keep the new wave of battery electric buses safe from thermal events such as thermal runaway.

This soul-searching gave rise to a new idea. Previously, United Safety’s fire suppression technology had centred on AFFF and high-pressure water mist technology to limit fire risks. With lithium ion batteries requiring a completely new approach to suppressing thermal events, United Safety landed on a new design for Australian electric buses.

“Throughout this testing phase we had a lot of third-party fire professionals look at what would be the best course of action for fighting these different types of fires,” United Safety National Executive Sales Manager Matthew Jarrett told ABC.

WORDS SEAN MORTELL IMAGES UNITED SAFETY

As the only supplier of Fogmaker Fire Suppression systems in Australia, United Safety is the market leader in bus fire suppression and safety systems. It took its standing to the next level courtesy of an intensive search to redefine electric bus safety systems down under

“The conclusion of these tests was that Fogmaker, alongside a different active cooling agent, was the best way to ensure we removed passengers from electric buses safely before thermal events could wreak havoc.”

The agent found to be the perfect antidote for battery electric bus battery fires was ECO-1. Dries says ECO-1 was first used by Fogmaker International across multiple applications. It was introduced with the idea of transitioning from ICE powered vehicles to electric vehicle safety while also limiting the environmental impact that previous safety system agents had before it.

With this answer now known, United Safety pushed forward with a wide range of tests and certifications that prepared it to begin implementing the ECO-1 agent onto its range of Fogmaker products onboard Australian buses and coaches.

Tests that United Safety underwent included getting ECO-1 Greenscreen certified as a leading fire suppression agent along with compliance against P-MARK, FM and UL approvals and meeting Australian Standard (AS) 5062 for fire prevention measures. Following this comprehensive list of approvals, United Safety was ready to begin 2023 by using ECO-1 on its leading safety products.

The next step was to plan how it would implement this new agent into its growing list of fire

suppression systems onboard zero-emissions buses.

“All of those tests that we took were ones that provided scientific data for knockdown time, reflash control and, most importantly, extended discharge,” Dries says.

“Extended discharge was critical for us to begin retrofitting ECO-1 agent systems onto existing products that were working on Australian vehicles.

“This is where our risk management approach to installing fire suppression systems on electric buses came to the fore.”

When it came to fitting this new agent onboard electric safety systems in Australia, United Safety kept risk assessment critical to its procedures. How it works is simple; the United Safety team identifies the fire risks onboard each individual battery electric bus before walking through the process of how to protect the asset and the people onboard and then putting its recommendations forward on what it can provide operators to increase safety.

United Safety’s products are designed in line with this approach. Dries says United Safety’s product range meets all standards and certifications for this risk management approach, using this framework to then drive the installation process for

zero-emissions buses and their unique risks.

Unlike diesel buses, where safety products could only protect the engine, United Safety’s new Fogmaker design can spread thermal safety to other precious parts of an electric bus, limiting the risk of a catastrophic electric fire.

It’s part of a new approach that is helping United Safety keep electric buses safe despite the various thermal challenges they present.

“Our intent is to stop thermal events from getting to large battery sources,” Dries says.

“Our technology is all about protecting large thermal sources on our buses, which in electric buses is the lithium ion batteries.

“Our major change has been to now prevent the spreading of thermal events to DC inverters, all connection points, compressors, generators and motor controllers.”

This different way of protecting zero-emissions buses is also made easier by the quality of the Fogmaker system. Fogmaker is

Above: United Safety’s electric bus evolution involved finding the right agent to suit the technology

Left: Its systems help protect critical parts of an electric bus

Opposite, Top: Since the start of the year, United Safety has turned its focus to protecting zeroemissions buses

Our technology and design is all about protecting large thermal sources on our buses, which in electric buses is the lithiumion batteries.

existing products without having to re-fit new systems. This flexibility allows United Safety to span electric vehicle in many industries, whether it be mining, tunnelling, forestry or waste vehicles.

“United Safety Australia is the leader in the global Fogmaker dealer network in ECO-1 zero-emissions bus installations and risk management,” Dries says.

“Our systems are failsafe – we provide standalone, automatic and failsafe systems that work anytime. It’s a major benefit that the only thing that makes our product work is a thermal incident in the bus.”

This new approach and agent has already been tested when United Safety took on the challenge of retrofitting Fogmaker into an electric double-decker bus recently.

Unlike a standard single-deck bus, the double-decker model requires even more safety precautions to provide the time for passengers on the upper deck to safely vacate the vehicle in the case of a thermal event. With the double-decker having up to 90 people onboard, United Safety aimed to extend its discharge to 90 seconds to allow additional time for

United Safety’s capabilities as a fire suppressing extraordinaire.

“It’s the only product in the market that can offer that,” United Safety National Transport Business Development Manager Mick Hall told ABC.

“Testing is always ongoing to allow for a smooth transition of new Fogmaker agents. ECO-1 is environmentally friendly and fluorine free.

This retrofitting of the double-decker bus happened at just the right time. Following this major boost for United Safety’s new zero-emissions bus design, Fogmaker International visited the company in Australia last month.

The visit of Fogmaker International reinforced United

Above, L to R: United Safety’s focus is on suppressing thermal events in both zeroemissions and diesel vehicles

Below: From the battery to DC inverters, Fogmaker products can now keep zeroemissions buses safe

facilities at its disposal to continue its constant evolution in the thermal safety game.

The changes will continue to revolve around the use of ECO-1. Multiple states have passed legislation that banned the use of any fire suppressing agents or foams containing Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), Perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) or Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA).

United Safety’s switch to ECO-1 late last year avoided these regulations, allowing it to grow in the electric bus market. Following this successful change, it’ll now look at introducing a broader range of products in 2023 that continue the theme of zero-emissions bus safety.

If this growth keeps on the path already forged by the innovative switch to ECO-1 in Fogmaker electric bus systems, United Safety will become a one-stop shop for all things zero-emissions bus and coach safety in Australia.

“In 2023 we’ll also be introducing our range of seating products alongside new Active Air solutions,” Dries says.

“We’ll also be bringing our contactless DC tester to the market. It’s the very first of its kind and can test DC for anyone operating or maintaining battery systems.

“We’ve been in the industry for 20 years and are here in Australia for the long haul. Our goal is to continue looking for solutions to keep people and property safe.”

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BUILDING ON THE BELT

Volvo’s history is steeped in pioneering safety technology. From the seat belt to the complex HVIL loop, Volvo Bus is pushing the boundaries of safety capabilities on its bus fleet

For Volvo Bus Australia, safety has always been paramount. As one of its three enduring core values, it has always placed premium value on giving its buses and coaches safety that goes above and beyond standards and expectations.

But what high-quality safety means hasn’t necessarily stayed the same. Back in 1959, Volvo was ahead of the game when its engineer Nils Bohlin developed an exciting piece of new heavy vehicle safety technology: the modern three-point seat belt.

In a defining moment that demonstrates Volvo’s

attitude to industry-wide safety improvements, Volvo decided to leave the patent for the design open, making it available for all vehicle manufacturers to use.

More than a half-century later, Volvo Bus Australia’s suite of safety products look a fair bit different compared to the modern three-point seatbelt. While the seat belt has gone on to be credited with saving more than one million lives and is widely considered among the most cost-effective public health interventions, Volvo hasn’t stopped at this design when it comes to safety.

Its latest developments include adaptive cruise control, driver

alert systems, dynamic steering and collision warnings. With the industry turning towards electromobility, Volvo is proudly leading the charge of what safety in electric buses should look like.

For Volvo Bus Australia general manager Mitch Peden, safety is, and always will be, in Volvo’s DNA.

“While of course we need to extend our thinking around safety for battery electric buses, safety has always been at the core of what we do at Volvo,” Peden told ABC.

“This focus on safety systems, of exceeding safety regulations, isn’t new. Introducing technology and backing up the systems with training for operators just makes

Above:

Volvo’s bus safety technology has come a long way to now include electric battery protection

IMAGES VOLVO BUS AUSTRALIA

sense to us, with safety at the core of everything we do.”

Volvo Bus Australia head of Product and Engineering Mark Fryer says the safety innovations from Volvo on its buses and coaches, whether it be its diesel, hybrid or electric variants, include a wider range than ever before.

“Safety is one of our core values at Volvo and that has never gone away,” Fryer told ABC.

“Alongside all of our safety products that monitor and ensure everything in our vehicles stay safe, our HVIL loop is at the forefront.”

While Volvo’s safety suite is now large enough to fill a book, Volvo’s High-Voltage Isolation Loop (HVIL) design would grace the front cover nowadays. The idea behind the HVIL loop is to provide resistance monitoring and multi-layer cable protection at a speed and reliability seldom seen before.

While it’s not new on Volvo’s latest electric bus line – it’s been on

Above: Volvo’s chassis incorporate an incredible amount of safety

Right: The HVIL loop cuts power onboard a bus if the circuits are impacted Opposite, Top: Volvo’s safety products have evolved in recent years

Volvo’s hybrids for many years – it encompasses leading vehicle safety and electrical technology in its current format. Fryer says the HVIL loop starts when consumers are plugged into Volvo’s junction boxes.

“We have a traction voltage monitoring unit that surveys how much energy is required by the

driveline and in turn how much energy will be put back into the ESS system through regenerative braking,” he says.

“When everything is plugged into the 600V system, including all batteries for the bus and its consumers, it all utilises our HVIL loop technology that monitors all

Our goal has been to ensure our buses capture safety threats before they even arrive to make the vehicles as safe as can be.

600V components and the wiring harness.”

This technology helps protect a wide range of features, including the bus’s batteries, air-conditioning and heating units and driveline technology.

The HVIL technology runs by ensuring that all 600V cables are connected securely at all times, allowing for a loop of power to keep everything running. Once connected, the bus can then provide a resistance reading on the Volvo wires.

By supplying its own wires and conducting plenty of testing, Volvo has finetuned the exact resistance reading it should have at all times. If the wires don’t have this reading, the power gets cut instantly, shutting down the bus quicker than the click of a finger.

“If the steel wire armour around these cables are compromised for any reason, the power shuts down. The HVIL loop goes through every single part of our buses that accept high voltage to create one big loop,” Fryer says.

To put it simply, all of these measures and intricate wire designs dramatically decrease the risk of arcing and electric

shock hazards, shutting down high voltage systems in the blink of an eye in the event of a cable or component being impacted.

Yet it’s not just electric safety that Volvo is focusing its expansive safety capabilities on.

The safety risk of battery electric buses is the thermal danger that the batteries pose. Although these thermal incidents may be highly unlikely, Volvo has implemented systems that are above and beyond the Australian standards for fire mitigation.

Instead of traditional diesel bus safety that centres on putting out fires before they can threaten the bus’s integrity and people onboard, electric bus safety is more about extending the time passengers and drivers have to safely evacuate the bus.

Unlike diesel bus fires, the event of an electric battery fire is far more intimidating. As part of its commitment to safety knowledge, Volvo participates in training with local fire brigades to mitigate the risk of electric bus fires.

To combat this dramatic fire risk, Australian regulations require electric buses to provide safety for between three and five minutes to evacuate everyone onboard. Volvo, as is its way, aimed to extend this time.

Through a range of factors, including self-extinguishing cells, thermal-protected floors and extra barriers on the outside of the bus, Volvo Bus Australia succeeded.

Fryer says a key part of this improvement was Volvo Bus Australia’s famous safety layer. For the Volvo fraternity, it’s known as ‘The Onion’, as the analogy of ‘onions have layers’ has been implemented into its cell designs within its electric batteries.

“The nine safety layers rule means that anything to do with high power must include nine rules of engagement or standards that it passes before Volvo

begins its manufacturing process,” Fryer says.

“To this point, Volvo has nine safety layers in its battery cells, ranging from chemistry choice and pack design to cell chemistry and short-circuit protection.”

Outside of this innovative design, Volvo has looked at bolstering all parts of its buses to prevent the likelihood of a thermal event.

In the rear and back corners of the bus, Volvo added an extra 710mm of additional barrier that protects high voltage modules being impacted if the bus happens to be involved in a collision.

It then added thermal protection to its flooring and went through an investigation that determined that placing the batteries on the roof of the vehicle meant they were in the safest place away from hazards.

It’s a comprehensive approach to protecting the bus in a way never seen before. Fryer says this technology is only the tip of the iceberg, with Volvo Bus Australia’s safety suite onboard a bus being vaster than it ever has in Volvo history.

For a company dedicated to safety that its own engineer invented the modern seat belt, Peden concedes this is no mean feat.

“These accomplishments mean we’re extremely confident that our safety systems don’t just satisfy operator and legal requirements, but go above and beyond them,” Peden says.

“Our goal has been to ensure our buses capture safety threats before they even arrive to make the vehicles as safe as it can be for all onboard.

“We know that our safety systems are complex and unique in Australia. We’ll continue to push the limits on safety technology to go beyond what has been accomplished before.”

AWARD WINNING SAFETY

When Scania Australia won a major HVIA safety award last year, it did so by going the extra mile with its safety systems for the servicing and maintenance of its zero-emissions buses and coaches

IMAGES SCANIA AUSTRALIA

At last year’s Heavy Vehicle Industry Australia (HVIA) gala dinner, many major manufacturers from around the world were represented in the room. When the time came to announce the 2022 Safety Innovation award winner, they all could’ve had claims for prioritising safety in their latest vehicle designs.

Yet it was Scania Australia that graced the stage in Brisbane to accept the award last November.

“The training we have undertaken and continue to undertake ensures everyone at Scania knows how to be safe around batteries and battery electric vehicles in general,” Scania Australia managing director Manfred Streit told ABC.

“We were delighted to accept this significant award and hope that we continue to lead the way in demonstrating the safest ways to deal with BEVs in workshops.

“Our focus on safety at Scania has always been acute and internally we promote safety as ‘my first choice’.”

The award was vindication for Scania

Australia’s consistent dedication to prioritising safety when it comes to its development of zero-emissions buses and trucks.

But what is Scania doing in Australia to be deserving of such a prestigious safety award in not just the bus and coach industry, but the entire heavy vehicle sector?

For one of the leader members of the Australian bus and coach industry, Julian Gurney, it’s all about surpassing what is genuinely considered adequate safety for zero-emissions vehicles.

“Scania has a 100 per cent focus on safety across all of our activities and particularly with our public transport vehicles,” the Scania Australia director of sales for bus and power solutions told ABC.

“When it comes to the development of our battery electric buses, we have gone even further to ensure there’s multiple layers of protection built into the vehicle’s power architecture.”

As a passionate member of the bus industry and the leader of the Bus Industry Confederation’s (BIC) Suppliers Group, Gurney, like many at Scania Australia, is personally invested in maximising the safety of the nation’s buses and coaches.

Scania Australia has used its extensive global experience to its advantage as it continues introducing new zero-emissions technology down under. When it comes to the safety side of these new-age buses and coaches, Scania Australia is going over its systems with a fine tooth comb to continually improve its innovative technology and protect Australia’s bus drivers and passengers.

This means it isn’t just focusing on its innovative zero-emissions bus technology. Scania Australia is also stepping off the vehicle and looking at ways to train the people involved with operating Scania bus and coach systems to make services safer than ever before.

“Our safety focus goes further than just the systems on the bus, but extends into the workshop too,” Gurney says.

Top: Scania’s safety systems have become awardwinning features

Right:

Safety for Scania extends all the way into the workshop

“We have instituted an award-winning training scheme to ensure the safety of our workshop operations teams who deal with battery electric vehicles across the country as well as putting the entire Scania workforce through a battery electric vehicle (BEV) training programme to ensure everybody who may come into contact with a BEV at Scania understands just how important it is not to accidentally touch any component of the bus or coach that may be live.”

For the Scania team, uniforms are important. Yet the branding isn’t solely for aesthetic purposes – Scania Australia’s service teams that work on BEVs are receiving their own special clothing to protect themselves from BEV dangers.

Unlike other workshop garments, these uniforms have special Flash and Arc Rated features and personal safety equipment included. These well-clad workers are also mandated to work together on BEVs in pairs using specifically designed tools and insulated gantries, among other provisions, to reduce the potential for injury as much as possible.

These fine safety details are only the tip of the iceberg, highlighting why Scania was the well-deserved winner of the Safety Innovation award last year. Under the manufacturer’s Safety Management System (SMS), each level of employees have responsibilities when dealing with BEVs.

This includes activating safe operating procedures (SOPs) and training employees in-house with authorised Scania BEV technicians. A key feature is the mobile gantries that Scania have procured to permit safe access to bus batteries and electrical isolation points on the roof of Scania buses.

“We are installing BEV-specific workshop gantries complete with gates and warning signs and insulated wheels, and have established PPE, tools, tool boards, barrier systems and trollies specifically for use with BEV systems,” Scania Australia product support and service introductions manager Jason Grech told ABC.

“Scania’s vehicle onboard safety systems are highly detailed and engineered in-house from the start

and are designed to avoid voltage leakage.

“This equipment has been adapted to suit Australian standards and will be provided as full kits to our workshops when they are certified to work on BEV trucks and buses.”

Outside of this employee safety focus, Scania’s zero-emissions vehicle technology is also dedicated to protecting operators and passengers. Its electric drive system has various built-in safety devices, including warning plates on components posing a fire hazard, monitoring and power disconnection when threats are detected for the vehicle.

Gurney says Scania’s technology has evolved to include additional systems that seek to suppress fires in electric buses.

“Our technology aims to avoid the potential for leakage or thermal overloads, especially surrounding the battery packs,” Gurney says.

“We have cut-out switches on our vehicles that isolate the batteries, which must be activated before any work can be done on the vehicles.

“As with combustion-engine buses, we have taken a view that a fire suppression system is highly desirable and have worked with local suppliers to ensure that our vehicles will support third party systems that may be specified by our customers.”

Scania Australia’s depth of knowledge means it isn’t shying away from the thermal risk that electric bus batteries pose. Yet it’s not hard to see how the bus and coach giant beat a competitive field to take home last year’s HVIA Safety Innovation Award with its thorough approach to protecting buses that takes no chances across the entire company’s workforce.

“The HVIA award recognises the foresight we’ve put in to preparing all levels of our business to safely handle BEV systems and components,” Streit says.

“There is no place for complacency with high-voltage electricity. The industry should expect these safety elements to be a part of all of our future product line-ups.”

The HVIA award recognises the foresight we’ve put in to preparing all levels of our business to safely handle BEV systems and components.

With an extensive range of electric vehicle charging equipment in stock, we’re here to support your transition to net zero.

Our expert team will conduct a site assessment, designing a safe and reliable energy solution tailored to optimise your fleet. We’ll help you understand electricity usage and tariffs, identify savings, and advise on renewable energy generation and storage options. Let’s talk!

BROADENING THE BRAND

In just two years, BLK Auto has become a key part of the Queensland bus and coach industry. With recent changes to its management team, it’s now eyeing national expansion as part of the company’s new strategic direction

It’s been a whirlwind couple of years for BLK Auto. After taking over the mantle as the Australian distributor of Chinese-made Bonluck buses in January 2021 from industry veterans Rodd Hood

and Athol McKinnon, BLK has worked on making a name for itself in the Australian bus industry.

Just two years down the track, BLK is ready to solidify its direction and expand its product range to both highlight the

best of its zero-emissions bus and coach technology and add to its extensive range of diesel models.

This vision began in early 2023 when Sean Smith took over the day-to-day running of BLK Auto as general

IMAGE BLK AUTO

Jason Pecotic from the business.

“Our aim over the next 12 months for the business is to take the BLK Auto name and provide operators with both choice and certainty,” Smith told ABC.

“We want to firm up relationships with trade partners nationally to provision both the sale and ongoing support of our vehicle range. This will come by expanding our ties with some European chassis manufacturers who place our bodies on their chassis while also ensuring the correct resources are in place when required from an aftersales and parts perspective.

“In addition, we’ll continue to work with Australian body builders who want to place their bodies on our chassis.”

This ideal for BLK Auto’s growth is based on experience producing vehicles. BLK’s factory is no newcomer to technology, having built zero-emissions buses and coaches for many years.

Smith says BLK’s choices of new products is led by conversations the brand is having with customers currently. By listening to what’s important to them, BLK will ensure it brings buses and coaches to market that are well built and fit-for-purpose from both an operator’s and a driver’s perspective.

For its zero-emissions range of vehicle, it’s placing equal importance in benefits for workshop staff into its designs. As an overall brand, it’s also emphasising its partnerships and ensuring the Australian industry has no confusion about BLK’s future direction.

“It’s all about building relationships and we’re placing a high level of importance on this,” Smith says.

“Previously it confused people that we had two names where some knew us as BLK Auto while others knew us as Bonluck, with the two not being linked together for the industry.

“We’ve now removed the Bonluck name and logos and gone back to BLK Auto. It’s short, sweet and simple. It’ll allow us to move forward with a single image and brand.”

Up until this point, the past two years for BLK have been about securing sales via a combination of both prior relationships and word of mouth.

Its strategy moving forward will now ensure that its customers’ experience is one that is transparent, seamless and commercially attractive for both parties.

As BLK continues to bring new product to market and expand its operations, it’ll be done in a way that has no haste to it, with proper planning pivotal for BLK.

The BLK management team’s vision involves growing sustainably so that BLK Auto bus sales increase at a steady rate.

“Our theory moving forward is to grow the business by 10 per cent year on year for the next five years to get it to a point of critical mass where we can maintain the level of deliveries and support it properly,” Smith says.

A vital part of this strategy revolves around BLK’s growing range of zero-emissions buses and coaches. Its factory was behind the first fully-electric vehicles to be imported into Australia back in 2008.

BLK products continually come from a factory that’s been producing zero-emissions vehicles for more than 15 years. It may be a young company, but its partners and experience have a level of maturity that places the BLK brand

in a positive position.

Smith says BLK is also expanding its already-successful parts operation. BLK has committed to stocking more than just BLK bus parts – it also carries an extensive range of parts for most bus makes used in Australia.

“Providing support for bus operators is a very important focus for the team at BLK,” Smith says.

While companies like BLK can harness the technology to transition the nation’s fleet to zero-emissions vehicles, Smith says a lot of operators either don’t have the infrastructure required for this change or haven’t been given a concrete commercially viable path by governments around Australia.

“As much as politicians and government officials want to talk about zero-emissions, there still needs to be a high level of government participation in getting there,” Smith says.

“Some operators I have spoken to have said they would bypass electric buses altogether and wait for hydrogen fuel-cell models. We take notice of all of this in the industry.”

Currently, BLK has a range of zero-emissions buses and coaches in both electric and fuel-cell options in development. These include its new seven-metre on-demand shuttle battery electric bus, its eight-metre minibus in both diesel and electric models and its 12.5m electric and fuel-cell electric low-floor buses and coaches.

Smith says BLK’s new models are designed and engineered in Australia for local conditions. When fully tested, BLK is intending on introducing these new models to its range, joining BLK’s current 12.5m three-axle electric coaches operating in Australia.

The new models will be introduced ahead of next year’s National Bus and Coach Show in Brisbane.

As it has shown in the past two years, there’s plenty of time for BLK to continue growing as an Australian bus and coach brand in the lead-up to these releases.

“The projects won’t all hit the ground at the same time as we still have a diverse range of diesel models that we need to continue providing to our customers,” Smith says.

“By staggering the introduction of our new range, we’ll grow the business in such a way that it’s both sensible and based on market feedback.”

TAKING CHARGE

In Australia’s great bid to electrify its heavy vehicle fleet, there’s one obstacle currently standing in the way – charging infrastructure. While vehicle technology continues to grow by the month, a combination of factors is preventing charging plans from matching zero-emission goals.

As a prominent Australian technological force, Siemens is constantly revolutionis ing electric bus charging infrastructure. To combat the charging challenge

European depots using different Siemens charging technology. Her journey took her across Switzerland and two depots in Germany using the Siemens Sicharge UC high-power charging infrastructure range with overhead dispensers.

Despite all featuring Siemens chargers, the sites involved a different cable management system for its CCS2 charging cables. Each depot had one key feature in common – they all involved retrofitting equipment into existing infrastructure.

Laskowski says the chargers were installed in banks of five, with four connected to single overhead dispensers while the last used an integrated cable. The operator opted for overhead charging solutions at the site due to the lack of space to expand existing depot sheds or parking bays.

“Germany also deals with a unique civil works hazard in that when you dig into the ground, you might unexpectedly unearth a WWII bomb, reducing the appetite to dig cable trenches,” Laskowski says.

“The customer had experience with spring-loaded air hoses across the site that retract the air hose above the buses and was keen for a similar solution for the CCS2 charging cables.”

Siemens achieved this by using cable reels operated by a simple pull switch hanging between parked buses. This first visit taught Laskowski that some drivers activate the cable reel with the pull string without removing the plug from the bus, damaging it or the bus’s socket.

She left knowing that a simple fix was to provide a second string that activates the retraction of the cable back up

IMAGES SIEMENS AUSTRALIA

One company at the leading edge of the EV charging sector is global force Siemens. ABC recently caught up with Siemens Australia’s Olivia Laskowski, who travelled to Europe to review best practices and potential applications for EV charging infrastructure in Australia

with resistance, allowing drivers to recognise if the plug is still connected to the bus.

Laskowski found that the customer requested installation of the dispensers and cable reels on an overhead gantry, fully independent of existing depot sheds, to allow for future renovation or demolition plans.

“Siemens responded by supplying a steel gantry spanning five bus parking bays to mount everything to,” she says.

“This means the gantry may sit inside the depot shed, but it remains independent of the existing building.”

Laskowski’s second stop brought her to Switzerland, in the sixth district of Winterthur in the quarter of Hardau.

The depot here began commissioning Sicharge UC equipment in January last year, with 75 charging centres planned to be installed at the site along the walls or between structural

columns and ultimately connected to overhead dispensers.

Inside the fully enclosed depot, Siemens provided transformers for the private medium voltage network, which were then connected to a retractable cable system that was both practical and economical to install and maintain.

“A joint design effort between the customer and Siemens resulted in a spring-loaded balancer,” Laskowski says.

“The coiled cable is lowered by pulling on a string hanging between the buses. Ten-metre cables are used at this site to enable the length and flexibility to

Above: The European trip gave Laskowski inspiration for future designs

Right: Different Siemens inf rastructure was implemented in various ways Opposite, Below: There’s many ways to install charging infrastructure into pre-existing depots

reach the charging sockets for several bus brands and models in the fleet, both articulated and non-articulated, with sockets located either at the front, side or back.”

In a genius move, the same pull string is then used to retract the cable back up to its coiled positive above the buses through a simple tug of the string. While the first string design turned out to be too thin, leaving it at risk of getting caught in the bus side mirror, Siemens provided a thicker string to ensure it didn’t get stuck or damage the mirror or spring-loaded balancer.

Laskowski says her visit to Switzerland showed what can be done with retractable cables. Her final stop took her up north to the major port city of Hamburg, Germany.

“The Hamburg electric bus depot is one of the largest electric bus depots in Europe with more than 96 high power DC chargers installed from different manufacturers,” Laskowski says.

“Siemens began commissioning Sicharge UC charging infrastructure

Top, Left: Cables can be suspended from above

Top, Right: Large-scale charging in action in Europe

Below: Siemens chargers are seen globally at bus depots

at the site in August 2021. Hamburg’s depot consists of large undercover bus parking bays, and the charging infrastructure is housed in rooms sitting on top of the bus shelters.”

Before electric buses were introduced to the city, the depot had existing cables hanging from the bus shelters’ roofs to provide auxiliary power supply for cleaners and air hoses.

The cables, which hang between the parked buses, were quickly used by Siemens to connect to overhead dispensers similarly. Laskowski observed on her trip that using existing features is a key part of getting the most out of depot charging infrastructure.

“Some cables were configured as permanently hanging without the ability to retract, while others were longer and hung off cantilevers beyond the canopy of the depot roof,” Laskowski says.

“Another cable configuration used at the site is a sliding overhead rail, enabling the

contributing to our country’s sustainable future.”

Some cables were configured as permanently hanging without the ability to retract, while others were longer and hung off cantilevers beyond the canopy of the depot roof.

Unique Approach

The Bus SA conference made a bold comeback this year, exploring innovative strategies for marketing the bus and coach industry. The scenic National Wine Centre in Adelaide set the stage for an opening session focused on rebranding and revitalising the sector.

Advertising and media personality Sputnik encouraged the industry to scrutinise product, price and market position before launching targeted promotional campaigns and emphasised the importance of putting people at the heart of every business decision.

Marketing expert Tarnia Conti proposed novel marketing concepts, drawing inspiration from the aviation industry and highlighting the importance of creating memorable experiences and themes beyond ordinary bus services.

Human relations expert Jo Marshall stressed the need to prioritise employees and passengers. A disengaged employee can cost a business up to 34 per cent of their salary, meaning understanding and supporting staff is vital.

Bus Fire Mitigation & Child Check-Mate

21 July @ 1.30-2.30 pm

South Australian Transport and Infrastructure Minister Tom Koutsantonis assured attendees that his government takes a collaborative approach to achieving a transition to zero and low emissions, as well as an expanded network. Shadow Transport and Infrastructure Minister Vincent Tarzia called for a re-evaluation of the intra-regional service between Mount Gambier and Adelaide.

The agenda then shifted to education and emissions challenges, as well as updates from the Department for Infrastructure and Transport, Scania, the Bus Industry Confederation (BIC) and APTIA.

The Conference concluded with a spirited mock session of BusSAfe, Bus SA’s flagship student safety program. Attendees were encouraged onstage and dressed up as students (a private schoolboy and a netballer), a bus driver and a mum called Jemima. They acted out some of the safety messages taught in a BusSAfe session. On a more serious note, Andrea Overall gave an overarching explanation of the successes and future goals of the BusSAfe program.

WEBINARS

With Mick Hall, National Business Development Manager, Transport & Seating Hear about a hugely successful project to fit all 5.000 buses in the NSW State Transit fleet with engine bay and wheel bay fire suppression systems, and learn how you can implement fire mitigation.

Put simply, the Child Check-Mate alarm system has protected the lives of hundreds of children. It’s a unique technology that tells drivers all children have safely disembarked at the end of a run. Learn how Child Check-Mate keeps children safe on buses.

Join Bus SA for this innovative webinar series to discuss: running successful businesses; the emissions challenge; safety; industry and supplier viewpoints and offerings. More webinars will be added regularly so jump on our mailing list! Cost = free!

Register + mailing list: bussa.asn.au/webinars

24 August @ 1.30-2.30 pm

Electric dreams: Cost effective infrastructure, planning and implementation = zero future ready

With Jack Kotlyar, Head of Green Transport, EnergyAustralia

21 September @ 1.30-2.30 pm

The importance of workforce planning

With Klausch Schmidt, Industry Skills

Australia

Skilling our industry: a model for bus and coach training

With James Jeffries, Train Crew

The return of Bus SA’s conference resulted in a different approach, calling in external experts to discuss how to better market the bus and coach industry

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CAUGHT IN THE CROSSFIRE

When the Tasmanian government confirmed a deal with the AFL to build a new stadium at Macquarie Point to house a Tasmanian AFL team, it drew a range of responses. For the state’s bus industry, revolutionary transport plans around this announcement hinge on the outcome of the current debate engulfing the Apple Isle

With scarves and coats on, thousands of people descend on Hobart on a sunny Saturday morning. Instead of enjoying the surrounds of an autumn morning in Tasmania by indulging in a leisurely stroll to Salamanca Markets, these people flock to Parliament House with anger in their eyes. They hold signs and frown with defiant displeasure. Red scarves fly above heads, stretched tight to show off words that are filled with clenched frustration. Black and white caps adorn the bustling protesters and make them look like the antithesis of what they want to be – a football crowd. Through all of the furrowed brows and scathing slogans, one phrase summarises sentiments.

‘No Stadium’.

On the other side of this Tasmanian political storm is the sport-loving citizen who has waited too long for an AFL team of their own. To do so, they’ve had to beg for years and put faith in a state government to receive funding for a new stadium at Macquarie Point that gives them the announcement they’re after. Now, they have an identity of their own, a team in their homeland.

In between all of this is Tasmania’s bus and coach industry, treading carefully through no-man’s land and avoiding the ricochets, all in the name of a unique opportunity never before seen in Tasmania’s history of public transport.

“It’s such an exciting day for us in Tasmania,” Tasmanian deputy premier and treasurer Michael Ferguson says.

“Macquarie Point is uniquely positioned to be a transport corridor for the north,

east and south corridors of Hobart and beyond in Tasmania.

“We are proud to lock in rapid bus transport as the preferred mode for the northern suburbs transit corridor.”

In the build-up to Ferguson’s announcement on May 1, the local bus industry was neck-and-neck with light rail to be chosen to run the critical piece of new transport infrastructure. Despite there already being existing light rail infrastructure, the Tasmanian government went with buses due to one key term: Rapid bus transit.

Before Ferguson’s words, the Australian bus and coach industry may not have realised how important local bus networks have been to the rise of rapid bus transit globally. First running in Runcorn New Town, England in 1971, bus rapid transit (BRT) uses roadways dedicated to buses to provide consistently quick services that

deliver the speed and capacity of light rail systems. Australia wasn’t far behind on the concept, with the Adelaide O-Bahn guided busway being one of the first of its kind to run globally when it was officially opened in 1986.

But how is it different to a normal bus network? As a professor in transport engineering at Melbourne’s Monash University and the director of the Public Transport Research Group, Professor Graham Currie is aware of the specific features of rapid bus transit that made it such an enticing option for the Tasmanian government to use at Macquarie Point.

“For a long time, Hobart’s been looking for alternatives to standard buses to match its geography,” Currie told ABC. “Railways are a great way of invigorating public transport, but they’re expensive and middle-sized cities like Hobart struggle to afford it.

WORDS SEAN MORTELL

movement to run bus services like railways, giving us the concept of rapid bus transit.”

Rapid bus transit systems, such as Adelaide’s O-Bahn, run frequent vehicles that average an operating speed of 80 kilometres per hour. This speed and urgency of services makes it as fast as railway services, with dedicated concrete and rail tracks allowing the buses to run on individual corridors like a trackless tram does.

As a public transport expert, Currie has been to China to see the latest trackless tram technology emanating from Asia. He says these latest generations of buses are electric and look and weigh

reduced cost.

Although many are opposed to the Macquarie Point stadium idea, Currie says that if it goes ahead, rapid bus transit is the perfect decision for the Tasmanian government to make for transport to and from the area.

“I was very happy with the decision made for two main reasons,” he says. “Firstly, there’s a rail corridor in Hobart not being used that could be converted to a bus corridor, giving the bus network a huge opportunity to thrive in Hobart.

“Another is that this transport will directly run to and from what would be Tasmania’s largest stadium. Through my experience planning transport for numerous Olympic Games and the Hajj pilgrimage at Mecca, one truth I know is that you can’t do these with cars, meaning buses become so important.”

Alongside the O-Bahn, Tasmania won’t have to look far to gain inspiration for trackless tram networks. In Brisbane, Swiss manufacturer HESS is in the process of delivering 60 high-capacity fully electric bi-articulated vehicles for Brisbane Metro. With its ability to be deployed on conventional bus

routes and dedicated busways, HESS regional manager Peter Dale isn’t surprised that rapid bus transit options are becoming popular.

“Vehicle options like HESS’s bi-articulated lighTram® 25 are a flexible transport option that allows bus operators to continue as bus operators while significantly increasing their capacity,” Dale told ABC.

Although many of Australia’s largest stadiums are situated next to major railway networks, Currie says rapid bus transit can provide very similar services. For recent examples, the 2016 Olympic Games in Brazil’s Rio de Janeiro relied on buses, while Queensland’s planning for the 2032 Olympics centres around bus networks.

Above: Operators like Tassielink Transit could get involved in the proposed network

Left: There are many examples of trackless trams around the world, particularly in China

Below: Tasmanian deputy premier and treasurer Michael Ferguson

Opposite: The proposed Macquarie Point stadium could revitalise both the city of Hobart and Tasmania’s bus network

Top: The potential Tasmanian BRT could replicate Adelaide’s successful O-Bahn

Above:

a stop every 15 to 30 seconds.

“It’s this frequency of services that can be a key factor in growing transport markets, which is what Hobart currently lacks,” Currie says. “With rapid bus transit, everything speeds up and you can get more productivity out of all parts of the network, meaning there’s a cost benefit as things get more efficient and successful.”

Another transport industry member celebrating Ferguson’s supplementary Macquarie Point announcement came from Tassielink Transit, one of Tasmania’s largest bus and coach operators. Its managing director, Shane ‘Bubbles’ Dewsbery, says it was one of the best announcements the Tasmanian bus industry has ever heard in its long history, having the potential to change the way transport is delivered in Tasmania.

“When I heard they were going with buses, it was music to my ears,” Dewsbery told ABC. “The

everyone in our entire industry will benefit, not just the one operator.

“I’m excited by it, as it’s the next step for Tasmania to improve our transport product.”

Much like Currie, Dewsbery agrees that the key to making a bus transport network successful in Macquarie Point and the greater Hobart region is by providing clearways that limit the impact

other option, but this gives us the chance to make it their first option of travel.

“If rapid bus transit goes ahead, it’ll be good for everybody in Tasmania to recognise the role a bus network can play to feed the stadium and the state.”

Yet there are plenty of objections to the stadium, threatening the potential of the rapid bus transit network in Hobart. After the announcement of the Macquarie Point stadium and 19th AFL team in Tasmania, two members of the Tasmanian state government left the party to become independent members, plunging the government into a minority in parliament.

When rallies to support the ‘Stop the Stadium’ movement resulted in large turnouts, the status of the AFL team, the stadium and ultimately the bus network were

An example of a trackless tram in action (Hitachi Energy)

Right: Colombia’s rapid bus transit network in Bogota

thrown into unknown territory.

For Hobart lawyer and member of opposition group ‘Stop the Stadium’ Roland Browne, the lack of adequate funding for transport options around the stadium make it unfeasible to provide a rapid bus transit network.

“The proposed stadium has been borne without planning,” Browne told ABC. “Hobart’s public transport system is second rate, including the bus network.

“There is nothing in place to transport such large numbers of people in Hobart and no funding has been allocated to support the many buses that would be needed to move people to ferries or to bring them to and from the Hobart city centre at any given time.”

If the stadium and AFL team concept is allowed to go ahead, the Tasmanian

government has assured that the rapid bus transit network, alongside an expanded ferry system, would be properly supported to transport people to and from the stadium, as well as into a new bus terminal in Hobart’s CBD.

One key issue Currie recommends is ensuring that buses don’t fall victim to compromise.

Unlike light and heavy rail options, buses can fall by the wayside to the compromise of road traffic, but Currie says this can’t be allowed to happen. Alongside this priority, he also says future-proofing infrastructure is key to the network’s success.

“When putting in the infrastructure, they should design it for rail,” Currie says. “This means bridges will be able to take heavier vehicles, so in 50 years’ time the infrastructure can be easily upgraded

as Hobart gets bigger.

“The other improvement is in development opportunities. I hope the bus industry is proactive about this and get involved in the planning stage, as the bus operators know more about the issues involved than anyone else. The best plans for any transit improvement project involve consulting the operators up front during the planning process.”

Currie and Dewsbery both agree that if interchanges and infrastructure are planned well, the high frequency of rapid bus transit services could have an amazing impact on the new stadium. Yet all of this pipedream is, unfortunately, out of the bus industry’s control.

As we stand at the time of publication, there is no longer any certainty that Ferguson’s announcement of a revolutionary new rapid bus transit network in Tasmania will eventuate. The coming months will dictate whether this idea is left behind as one of the state’s great missed opportunities, or whether it evolves into a landmark moment in the fabled history of Tasmania’s bus and coach industry.

If rapid bus transit goes ahead, it’ll be good for everybody in Tasmania to recognise the role a bus network can play to feed the stadium and the state.

ELECTRIC FEELING

When the second largest electric bus tender in Australian history to date was put out to the market, it’s little wonder that VDI Australia leapt at the opportunity to compete.

As the exclusive Australian distributor for Yutong, one of the leading electric bus and coach manufacturers in the world, VDI has plenty of experience supplying large quantities of buses.

Backing its ability to deliver on the contract, the company put forward a strong enough pitch to win the business, marking a historic moment in VDI’s journey so far.

VDI Australia general manager Lou Riccardi won’t forget the moment he found out that VDI/ Yutong had won the historic tender.

“We had it confirmed over email that we had won the tender for the new electric bus order for Transport Canberra,” Riccardi told ABC. “We were all in the office when it came through and were so ecstatic that we had received the tender.”

The ACT tender was of a size rarely seen before in Australian electric bus history. Trailing just behind this year’s Western Australia electric bus tender for 130 electric buses, this latest round of ACT government electric bus procurement called for 90 new zero-emissions buses for the Transport Canberra fleet.

Under the contract, the ACT government has committed to buying 90 Yutong E12 battery electric buses. The territory government is also in negotiations to order another four battery electric buses with Custom Denning.

When the new electric buses arrive on Canberra’s streets, they will take ACT’s zero-emissions bus fleet to 106. It’ll form a big step towards the territory’s aim of having a fully electric bus fleet by 2040.

The electric buses will join 12 Yutong E12 buses that have been running in the Canberra fleet since the start of this year as part of a five-year lease agreement

IMAGES VDI/ YUTONG & ACT GOVERNMENT

between the ACT government, VDI and Zenobe. These vehicles have already travelled more than 100,000 kilometres.

“Before these first E12s came to Canberra, the ACT government ran a trial with the E12 over a 12-month period for their assessment,” Riccardi says.

The initial electric trial started in early 2022, at a time when the ACT government also leased 26 diesel buses from Scania and Bus Tech as well as the 12 Yutong E12s from VDI Australia.

This latest procurement order for 90 more E12s is a major leap of faith for a territory government looking to continue leading the way in Australia when it comes to electric buses.

Already it’s been a rapid journey for the ACT transport minister Chris Steel, who ABC spoke to in the wake of the bus contract announcement.

“We first mapped out our zero-emissions transition plan for Transport Canberra

support to Transport Canberra staff.

Steel says the recent Australian Institute report condemning the slow rollout of zero-emissions bus technology in Australia was on his mind as he led the territory’s progressive electric bus target.

“The ACT is a leader in zero-emissions transport with the largest fleet of electric bus delivered per capita in our nation,” he says.

“This will transition more than 20 per cent of our bus fleet to zero-emissions technology. It’s also been backed up by a significant investment we’ve made in the infrastructure required to charge the buses through EvoEnergy.”

VDI will also play a vital role in this infrastructure focus.

While the ACT government has worked with electricity company EvoEnergy to drag high voltage feeder cables to two depots in Woden and Tuggeranong to provide the capacity to charge up to 300

in 2020 and set out a pathway to reach zero-emissions across our bus fleet by 2040 or earlier,” Steel told ABC.

“We’d been trialling electric and hybrid buses before that to help inform our strategy development. Canberra is the fastest growing city in Australia and we need more buses to deliver this to its growing suburbs.”

The new deal involves VDI supplying the Yutong E12 buses in the three years leading up to 2026 as part of a steady delivery plan.

When they arrive, they’ll replace the ACT’s ageing diesel and compressed natural gas (CNG) buses and meet key sustainability goals. Additionally, VDI will provide technical training and ongoing

When the winner for a major electric bus tender in Canberra was announced, it was a milestone moment for the history of the ACT government as well as VDI and Yutong buses in Australia

Yutong has been building E12 electric buses since 1999, so having an integrated vehicle that ticks all boxes with years and years of research and design poured into it satisfies lots of requirements.

charging infrastructure.

Currently, Steel says that each existing Yutong E12 electric bus that arrived in Canberra earlier this year has on average travelled 300km per weekday for an average of 11 hours per day.

“We’re seeing really good operational performance from the buses and we’ve been able to replace existing diesel buses one for one,” Steel says.

“It goes to show the maturity in

ACT government confirmed it would order 90 Yutong E12s

Below: The zeroemissions Yutong buses are already running in the nation’s capital

buses are showing they’re very competitive on the road compared to diesel models.

“VDI was chosen through a competitive tender process because they provided value for money, a strong delivery schedule and the right specifications for Transport Canberra.

“We think we have a great outcome for this tender, but there’ll be further opportunities down the track for other suppliers as we continue transitioning.”

Steel expects these Yutong E12 buses to have an important impact on improving Canberran’s quality of life, with zero-emissions buses reducing noise and normal pollution significantly alongside their environmental benefits.

VDI Australia national manager of product, ZEB and new technologies, Luke Edwards says if the latest order of electric Yutong buses continue on the path the original E12s have laid, Canberra will be in for an exciting zero-emissions future.

“So far there have been no issues at all and they’ve performed faultlessly,” Edwards told ABC.

have more faith in our product.”

Ever since Riccardi received that exciting email, he’s been preparing for what lay ahead. Although it was a milestone moment for VDI Australia and the history of Yutong buses in Australia, he’s now got his eyes faced straight ahead for the crucial delivery phase that’s about to start.

Riccardi’s goal is to one day see a Canberra transport network fuelled by efficient Yutong electric buses on all services.

“Yutong has been building E12 electric buses since 1999, so having an integrated vehicle that ticks all boxes with years and years of research and design poured into it satisfies lots of requirements,” Riccardi says.

“It’s a big moment for us. We’ll be doing the end of line assembling for these vehicles here in Australia, creating new local jobs and giving Australian companies the opportunity to supply components moving forward.

“We’re very excited that we were selected but this is only the beginning for us. We anticipate many more wins for VDI and Yutong to come.”

SAFETY THROUGH QUALITY

Webasto’s products not only meet the applicable standards, but are designed to exceed the industry requirements regarding reliability and safety,” Webasto CS sales and service director in APAC David Byrne told ABC.

being used on buses as well as in off-road construction machinery.

“This modular scalable battery system offers a range of safety features that are essential for the safe operation of electric vehicles,” Byrne says.

Above: Webasto’s latest CV Standard Battery is ideal for electric buses

Below: The system emphasises safety and thermal management

There’s no denying that electric buses hold a critical piece of the sustainable transport puzzle when it comes to urban areas. Its popularity in these regions has made battery electric buses an exciting way forward.

Yet with this new technology comes its own discussion around safety concerns. To address this, global top 100 automotive supplier Webasto has designed its own range of innovative solutions to ensure safety is at the forefront for its e-mobility partners and customers.

“As a major supplier to the global automotive industry,

“Unique testing and validation ensuring the highest quality and safety levels are part of Webasto’s automotive DNA. With an in-house design, prototyping and comprehensive range of facilities, Webasto tests and validates all components from cells to full systems for buses.”

This complete package of internal testing includes functional, thermal, environmental, mechanical shock, vibration and electrical testing.

These assessments have resulted in the Webasto CV Standard Battery. Produced in a state-of-the-art German facility, the CV Standard Battery is part of a homologated system designed specifically for the world’s commercial vehicles like buses and coaches.

Webasto says its robust design and housing result in the battery

“With its integrated BMS, the system is constantly monitoring key performance and safety critical factors such as voltage, current, temperatures, state of health and charge at a cell, pack and module level.”

Also included in every Webasto CV Standard Battery pack is insulation measurement, high voltage interlock and contactor monitoring. It all results in safe operations for buses and coaches within its designed parameters. Webasto says the CV Standard Battery System has also been designed to feature integrated thermal runaway detection.

In the event of a fault or malfunction, the system will automatically detect any abnormal changes in temperature, voltage, current and other critical values to shut down the system long before it can reach any state in which harm can be possibly caused to human life and the customer’s property.

If the risk ever spirals into an unlikely thermal event, the highly sensitive system will automatically detect any sharp increase in temperature and carbon dioxide levels to give the driver time to safely evacuate the vehicle.

Byrne says specially designed degassing units on each layer of the system provide pressure relief in a controlled manner.

“In normal operation, these

Webasto’s latest CV Standard Battery and other additions showcase the company’s willingness to go the extra mile to keep Australian electric buses as safe as possible

units also act as pressure equalisation devices and ensure the battery is always maintained at the correct pressure if there’s an altitude change for the vehicle,” Byrne says.

Byrne says one of the key safety features of the CV Standard Battery System is its physical separation between high voltage and cooling connectors. On top of this, the system also includes desiccant cartridges to avoid condensation over the lifetime of the

battery pack, preventing moisture from damaging the battery.

If growing operators want to use multiple battery packs in their buses or coaches, they can be connected via Webasto’s vehicle interface box (VIB).

As well as acting as a master BMS, the VIB allows for power distribution and a two-way communication interface with the vehicle, including receipts of critical safety messages like crash detection that would then lead to the automatic shutdown of the battery systems.

“Complementing the intelligent thermal management within the battery system is the development of Webasto’s eBTM 2.0,” Byrne says.

“This is a stand-alone battery thermal management unit that aims to regulate the temperature of the battery pack and maintain it within a safe operation range.

“It does this by combining heating and cooling elements with sensors and control systems that monitor and adjust the temperature as needed.”

Webasto’s eBTM 2.0 is especially designed to allow for optimal functioning of its water-cooled battery packs that are

used in electric commercial vehicles.

Its compact design includes all components needed for heating and cooling such as pumps, heaters, compressors and DC/DC converters.

Byrne says this underlines the simple ‘Plug & Play’ principle and allows for flexible installation of the system onto a bus’s roof or within its chassis.

This provides a wide range of benefits that makes Webasto’s new battery packs safer and more innovative than ever before for electric buses.

“One of the key benefits of a properly functioning thermal management system onboard a bus is improved battery life,” Byrne says.

“Batteries, commonly used in electric buses, are sensitive to temperature fluctuations. If it’s then exposed to high temperatures for long periods of time, it can cause accelerated aging and reduce its lifespan.

“By regulating the battery temperature, the system lowers the risk of performance reduction that could limit the bus’s range and driving behaviour.”

CHARGING FORWARD

Alot can happen in four years. In the timeframe between Olympic Games, the Bus Stop Group has assembled an extensive range of electric bus solutions.

Starting with the electric EVolution chassis and its high-floor school and charter bus, Bus Stop has also worked to package the EVolution Chassis with local content and bodybuilding partner Volgren.

In the latest addition to its ever-expanding electric bus fleet, Bus Stop has now released a point of difference with the next stage of its zero-emissions bus evolution in the EVolution Complete, a completely built King Long electric model.

While doing so, Bus Stop has specified the best possible components for the EVolution Complete in a bid to challenge

the historical perception of fully built, imported Chinese buses.

“Currently we have the country’s most comprehensive range of zero-emissions buses,” Bus Stop CEO and director Pete White told ABC.

“The new low floor ZEB is known as the EVolution Complete and is a fully imported body and chassis designed in Australia and manufactured to Australian standards by global bus manufacturer King Long.”

As the nation’s newest fully electric bus, the EVolution Complete is a milestone for the Bus Stop Group in Australia. White is no stranger to developing imported buses before this new foray – his respected family has spent years developing electric buses for various alternative brands.

On this new model, White’s team devised a strategy to work with a small

group of operators to delve deep into what a new zero-emissions bus could do differently in order to ensure that the solution presented was best in class.

“We researched and surveyed the core requirements that fed into the design scope across charging, product and site infrastructure,” White says.

“Customer requirements and needs must always come first. After four years of design, testing and refinement, we’ve brought together the most sought-after components from Europe and China at game-changing value.”

White says the EVolution Complete includes as standard the finest components, such as VDO Continental Electronics, CATL batteries (with thermal runaway protection), Thermo King electric air-conditioning and European ZF axles – all elements that are global leaders in their fields.

Yet White and the Bus Stop team went one step further on its journey to become unique in the local market. This resulted in the EVolution Complete model delving deeper into the operator’s preferences for aftersales support.

“We have specified, as standard, the highest level of on-site aftersales support for our CATL batteries as we found it important for operators,” White says.

“Our research identified that battery performance was consistently in the top five considerations for ZEB purchase. It isn’t commonly known that when the OEM purchases LFP battery packs from a supplier, such as CATL, they select a level

IMAGES BUS STOP

Bus Stop has worked with its manufacturing partner King Long to unveil a unique vehicle designed to support the industry with a wellbuilt and great value offering

of aftermarket support priced accordingly.

“It makes us confident in saying our ZEBs unequivocally have the highest level of aftersales support across all brands and receive a superior priority level.”

White says the EVolution range is the only ZEB product available in Australia to offer CATL A Level after-sales support, which comes with premium on-site battery support from CATL themselves. The alternative is self-warranty by the supplier, which White says is not ideal for fleet operators.

Alongside selecting premium components at the highest level of paid warranty support available, the EVolution Complete has options to go to a premium level for customers wanting to maximise the bus’s uptime.

Bus Stop Sales general manager of national fleets Stephen Long says this same meticulous approach was applied when it came to the selection of components.

“While these fine finishes are provided at a price premium, the business has committed to ensuring our electric bus options offer excellent support and reliability to the Australian market,” Long told ABC.

“From the interior of the vehicle to the layout of its 43 passenger seats and the build quality, it’s second to none.

quickly and able to meet the ambitious targets of city, state and federal governments.”

Long and White agree that a quick look at the bus’s interior has proven that this careful approach to designing this new bus was worthwhile.

Bus Stop is now excited that the EVolution Complete complements its local content product developed with Volgren.

“We are proud to support the Bus Stop team to bring a range of leading e-Bus solutions to the Australian market,” King Long Australian country manager Harvey Zheng told ABC.

The EVolution Complete also features the King Long Safety Solution (KLSS) integrated into the CATL batteries to limit thermal runaway incidents. White says this option is world-class based and is tested among many of the 100,000 plus King Long electric solutions operating globally.

The King Long Safety Solution uses nitrogen cooling in the battery system to maximise the suppression and extent of a thermal incident.

When releasing the new EVolution Complete, White expects Bus Stop’s ability to deliver these electric buses at scale to be crucial to success. He says Bus Stop has a significant opportunity to provide the fully imported vehicle as a

“Our motivation was to offer the market the widest array of electric vehicle options to have a solution for all customer needs,” White says.

“We fully support local production and believe the hype around drivable knockdown (DKDs) ZEBs is just that.”

White’s goals with Bus Stop centre around supporting the local industry. With the EVolution Complete product now sitting side by side with the EVolution Volgren model, Bus Stop is looking forward to growing its electric dream.

“We have invested heavily to deliver the most comprehensive range of bus solutions that offer excellent values as a fully built ZEB and maximise local build content alternatively,” White says.

“We’re certainly still working on electric bus releases. Our research highlights the demand for different varieties of electric bus solutions, which our Australian engineering team is working on. We’ll be in a great position to share soon.”

Top: The inside of the new King Long electric bus is spacious

Above: White says the bus is a dream to drive

Below: CATL A Level support is available on the premium model Opposite, Top: Bus Stop has elevated its electric fleet with this latest King Long bus

BROKEN HILL BEAUTY

As the ABC Best Bus competition continues to excel, the entries only improve, making the June winner difficult to pick from the field.

But once selected, there was no doubting that Daniel Clarke was deserving of the win for his wonderful shot of his 2017 Denning Phoenix in Broken Hill.

Yet such is the strength of the field, there are numerous honourable mentions as part of the finalists. ABC has once again loved receiving all of these photos and can’t wait to see more terrific photos come in for July!

The winner of the monthly competition will have their photo shown off on the ABC Facebook cover photo slot for the entire month, while the entrant with the most beautiful bus photo will also receive a free

12-month subscription to ABC Magazine.

When it comes to honourable mentions, James Woods’ sunset shot of his white, green and black Ballarat Coachlines coach was stunning in the Australian countryside. Similarly impressive was Mick Williams’ high-quality shot of his Scania/ Irizar coach by the water amid the autumn backdrop.

Our last honourable mention for June went to Jarrad Rust for his terrific shot of an Australia Wide Coach gleaming on the street from a nice low angle.

Yet our winner deserved the win for his constant high-quality photos in recent months. In a theme of bus photos winning in various Australian shots, Daniel Clarke finally graduated from honourable mention to winner for his stunning photo of his Clarke coach in the glorious sun of Broken Hill.

The 2017 Denning Phoenix photo was taken by Clarke himself while on tour with Twilight Coach Tours. The shot was taken at the Living Desert Sculptures in Broken Hill and is a photo of Clarke’s prized possession.

“I drive this particular bus more days than not,” Clarke told ABC.

“I take great pride in it and making sure it always looks as good as possible.”

The team at ABC loved the quality of the photo and the beautiful bus in the Broken Hill sun!

As always, flip over the page to see many of our finalists and entrants’ photos from what was an amazing month, and don’t forget to send through your Best Bus photos for the months ahead via email and keep an eye on our Facebook page for more details on next month!

The June winner of ABC’s Best Bus competition is well deserved following months of terrific photos, with this month’s taking the cake

Top, Left to Right: Ian McKenzie’s AETC coach and Stephen Marr’s Volvo/ Volgren shot between the ferns

Middle row, Left to Right: A low angle Australia Wide Coaches shot f rom Jarrad Rust, a clean coach from Mick Williams and a great shot of a Volvo from Ben Davis

C9 330hp,53 leather recliners,large underfloor bins,DVD,Thermo King A/C,travelled approx. 785,000klms

$110,000+GST

Wheelchair lift equipped, 8sp,Irizar Century 13.5m bodty,57 reclining lap sash seat belted seats, A/C, large underfloor bins $65,000+GST

12.5m Hi Deck automatic, Detroit Series 60,48 clothr recliners,large underfloor bins,DVD,Thermo King A/C,mid toilet, 2 door,travelled approx. 966,000klms $120,000+GST

Road Boss

This air conditioned QLD school bus has been very well maintained and has only approx. 138,000km!

With 5 rows of Styleride 2/3 seats for 10 extra child capacity when under 12yrs, this is a great vehicle with bull bar and stone guard. $45,000 including GST

Opticruise transmission including a retarder, Irizar 13.5m “Century” bodies, 54 lap sash seat belted seats, 48 when 2 wheelchairs fitted, rear toilet, A/C, plus more, travelled approx.1,5001,650,000klms, engines and transmissions have been rebuilt approx. 4-500,000klms

REDUCED TO $110,000 +GST each

Automatic, 15 passenger + driver, wheelchair lift, Electric step, Carrier A/C, Radio CD, travelled only 29, 000klms AS NEW $79, 000+GST

2016

FSS600 4X4

6sp manual, Quality Bus & Coach body, 28 lap sash seat belted seats, Thermo King A/C, UHF, Bull bar, travelled approx. 129,000klms $160,000+GST

Allison automatic, 71 lap sash seat belted seats, A/C, large underfloor bins, DVD, travelled approx. 235,000klms REDUCED TO $160,000+GST

Automatic, 35 lap sash seat belted seats, A/C, underfloor bins, bull bar, travelled approx. 335, 000klms $85,000+GST

Wheelchair lift equipped, automatic,Coach Design 12.5m body,57 lap sash seat belted seats,A/C,underfloor bins,just been repainted $110,000+GST

Automatic, 39 lap sash seat belted seats, A/C, underfloor bins, bull bar, DVD, travelled approx.120,000klms $85,000+GST

“EXPLORER”

4 X 2012 SCANIA K440EB

2016 BCI “PROMA DELUXE”

ISUZU

2016 MERCEDES BENZ SPRINTER “MOBILITY”

2008 SCANIA K380IB

2013 HYUNDAI

2006 MAN 18-280

2008 DENNING PHOENIX

BUSINDUSTRYCALENDAR OFEVENTSFOR2023

May deliveries jump back up

WhileAprilwasanimpressivemonthfordeliveries,thenumbersincreased yetagaininMaytocomfortablysurpassthetriplefiguremark

Supply chain issues aren’t completely knocking the Australian bus and coach industry down, with May’s deliveries proving that the sector is still firing on all cylinders.

Following April’s 100 units delivered, May has increased this number with 115 deliveries registered by bus and coach manufacturers in Australia for the month.

When it came to chassis, the resurgence of Volvo continued to dominate the market. It may have dropped down to 24 units in April, but there was no stopping the giant in May as it finished with 45 deliveries. Volvo sat comfortably ahead of the pack, more than doubling the next best in the ever-reliable Scania (21). More of a gap opened up, with Yutong finishing in third with 12 deliveries, while Denning kept in touch with the top brands with 10 units for the month. Mercedes-Benz increased its umbers in May with eight deliveries, while MAN (six), BCI (five) and King Long (four) all continuing to register consistent deliveries. To complete the chassis breakdown, BusTech Group delivered three units and BYD registered the sole delivery.

In the bodies section, the mainstay at the top solidified its grip on the local market. Volgren was once again above the pack, recording 36 deliveries for May to improve on its April numbers by six. Custom Denning shot back up to finish second for the month with 21 deliveries, while Irizar (19) was also able to sneak past Yutong (12) in May. BusTech Group had a great month, increasing from three deliveries in April to eight in May, while BCI (five) kept ahead of King Long (four). In another tight finish, the final 10 deliveries were shared between five companies.

The gap in the Australian seating market was opened up even further in May, with perennial

leader McConnell having an amazing month. It finished with 60 deliveries, more than double the next best in Sege with 24. StyleRide trailed not far behind on 15, while Yutong had another solid month with 12 units, keeping ahead of King Long (four).

There was once again no stopping Thermo King in the airconditioning market, with the giant recording another 38 deliveries in May. International HVAC company Hispacold shot up to second following an amazing month, more than tripling its April figures of six with 20 units sold in May, while Coachair rounded out the top three with 16. From here it got tight, with Valeo (13) and Cling-Yutong (12) very close, keeping ahead of Denso (eight) and King Long (four). The final four deliveries were shared between three, with MCC (two) edging out sole deliveries from Konvekta and Spheros.

There were major changes in the state-based battle, with NSW claiming revenge on its Victorian rivals. After the Vics took home the win in April, NSW flexed its muscles with 34 deliveries in May, beating out Victoria (28) by six. Finishing in third was Western Australia with 24 units, who edged ahead of Queensland (21).

Around the country, only South Australia (six) and Tasmania (two) were the only other areas to register deliveries in a busy month.

Turn overleaf for comprehensive bus and coach delivery information for May. Please note all data is as supplied from manufacturers, at their discretion.

There was once again no stopping Thermo King in the air-conditioning market, with the giant recording another 38 deliveries in May

Thermo King extended its lead in the air-conditioning market in May

Seat delivery units

SALES BY BODY

ThegapintheAustralianseating marketwasopenedupevenfurther inMay,withperennialleader McConnellhavinganamazing month.Itfinishedwith60deliveries, morethandoublethenextbestin Segewith24.StyleRidetrailednot farbehindon15,whileYutonghad anothersolidmonthwith12units, keepingaheadofKingLong(four).

Sales by chassis

In the bodies section, the mainstay at the top solidified its grip on the local market. Volgren was once again above the pack, recording 36 deliveries for May to improve on its April numbers by six. Custom Denning shot back up to finish second for the month with 21 deliveries, while Irizar (19) was also able to sneak past Yutong (12) in May. BusTech Group had a great month, increasing from three deliveries in April to eight in May, while BCI (five) kept ahead of King Long (four). In another tight finish, the final 10 deliveries were shared between five companies.

SALES BY AIR-CONDITIONER

There was once again no stopping Thermo King in the airconditioning market, with the giant recording another 38 deliveries in May. International HVAC company Hispacold shot up to second following an amazing month, more than tripling its April figures of six with 20 units sold in May, while Coachair rounded out the top three with 16. From here it got tight, with Valeo (13) and Cling-Yutong (12) very close, keeping ahead of Denso (eight) and King Long (four). The final four deliveries were shared between three, with MCC (two) edging out sole deliveries from Konvekta and Spheros.

When it came to chassis, the resurgence of Volvo continued to dominate the market. It may have dropped down to 24 units in April, but there was no stopping the giant in May as it finished with 45 deliveries. Volvo sat comfortably ahead of the pack, more than doubling the next best in the ever-reliable Scania (21). More of a gap opened up, with Yutong finishing in third with 12 deliveries, while Denning kept in touch with the top brands with 10 units for the month. Mercedes-Benz increased its umbers in May with eight deliveries, while MAN (six), BCI (five) and King Long (four) all continuing to register consistent deliveries. To complete the chassis breakdown, BusTech Group delivered three units and BYD registered the sole delivery.

MERCEDES-BENZ N/AVIC2Mercedes-BenzO500RSIrizar360REuro5AZF

N/AVIC1Mercedes-BenzO500RSIrizar360REuro5A

N/ANSW2Mercedes-BenzO500LECustomDenning300REuro6A

N/AWA1Mercedes-BenzO500RFOmnibus360REuro5A

N/ANSW1Mercedes-BenzO500RFCoachConcepts360REuro5A

SCANIA DonricGroupVIC1K360IB4X2ScaniaHiger360REuro6A

DPTI-Dept.ofPublicTsprtInfraSA1K360UA6X2/2BusTechGroup360REuro6A

FortescueMetalsGroupWA1K310IB4X2Irizar310REuro5A

FortescueMetalsGroupWA1K310IB4X2Irizar310REuro5A

FortescueMetalsGroupWA1K310IB4X2Irizar310REuro5A

G&JPurtillVIC1K410CB4x2NICoachDesign410REuro6OpticruiseScania212.5Thermo

LCDyson'sBusServicesVIC1K410CB6x2*4NIIrizar410REuro6OpticruiseScania314.5Hispacold –58 –X – – – –SegeY LCDyson'sBusServicesVIC1K410CB6x2*4NIIrizar410REuro6OpticruiseScania314.5Hispacold –58 –X – – – –SegeY LCDyson'sBusServicesVIC1K410CB6x2*4NIIrizar410REuro6OpticruiseScania314.5Hispacold –58 –X – – – –SegeY LawlersBusLinesVIC1K310IB4X2Irizar310REuro5A

LonestarCoachesQLD1K310IB4X2Irizar310REuro5A

MeesBusLinesVIC1K320CB4x2NBCoachConcepts320REuro6AScania2

VenturaBusLinesVIC7K320CB4x2LBVolgren320REuro6A

WarragulBusLinesVIC1K320UB4X2Volgren320REuro6OpticruiseScania212.5Coachair – –44 – –X – –StyleRideN WarrenBusServiceWA1K310IB4X2Irizar310REuro5A

VOLVO

HunterValleyBusNSW7VolvoB8RLEVolgren320REuro6A

HornibrookBusLinesQLD7VolvoBZLVolgrenN/AN/AZero BuswaysNSW6VolvoB8RCustomDenning330REuro5A

GattonBusServiceQLD1VolvoB8RVolgren330REuro5A

DelcottEngineeringNSW1VolvoB8RCustom330REuro5A

RedeemerBaptistSchoolNSW1VolvoB8RVolgren350REuro6A

MacquarieEducationalToursNSW1VolvoB8RIrizar350REuro6ASVolvo2

SidFoggNSW1VolvoB11RIrizar460REuro6ASVolvo314.5Hispacold –62 –X – – – –SegeY BroadmeadowsBusServiceVIC4VolvoB8RLEBustech320REuro5A

KangaCoachlinesSA1VolvoB8RSupportrans320REuro5A

KangaCoachlinesSA1VolvoB8RSupportrans320REuro5A

WinjeelHoldingsVIC1VolvoB11RCoachConcepts450REuro6ASVolvo313-14.9Spheros –OrgansBusServiceVIC1VolvoB11RIrizar450REuro6ASVolvo313-14.9Hispacold –ChristiansBusCompanyVIC1VolvoB8RCoachDesign350REuro6A

PublicTransportAuthorityWAWA10VolvoB8RLEVolgren320REuro6A

PublicTransportAuthorityWAWA1VolvoB8RLEAVolgren320REuro6A

YUTONG N/AQLD1YutongD12Yutong360REuro5AAllison2

N/AVIC1YutongD12Yutong360REuro5AAllison2

N/AWA3YutongD12Yutong360REuro5AAllison2

N/AQLD3YutongD7Yutong190FEuro6AAllison28Cling-Yutong

N/ANSW2YutongD7Yutong190FEuro6AAllison28Cling-Yutong

N/AWA2YutongD7Yutong190FEuro6AAllison28Cling-Yutong

5AZF28.8Valeo –35 – –X – – –SegeYN 5AZF28.8Valeo –35 – – – –X –SegeYN 5AZF212.3MCC57 – – – – –X –SegeYN 5AAllison212.3MCC –55 – –X – – –SegeYN AZF210-12.9ThermoKing46 – – – –X – –StyleRide/McConnellNY 6AZF210-12.9ThermoKing48 – – – –X – –StyleRide/McConnellNY ABYD212.1ThermoKing – –37 – –X – –McConnellNY N/AN/A212.5Valeo – –43 – –X – –McConnellNY 5AZF29KingLong –36 – – – – –XKingLongYN 5AZF210KingLong46 – – –X – – –KingLongYN 5AZF29KingLong40 – – – – –X –KingLongYN 5AZF29KingLong40 – – – – –X –KingLongYN 5AZF212.3Hispacold –48 – –X – – –SegeYY 6AZF212.3ThermoKing – –49 – –X – –McConnellNN 5AZFEcolife212.3Hispacold57 – – – – –X –SegeYN 5AZFEcolife212.3Hispacold57 – – – – –X –SegeYN 6AZF212.5ThermoKing45 – – – –XX –McConnellYN 5AZF212.5Coachair57 – – – – –X –McConnellYN 5AZF212.5ThermoKing57 – – –X – – –McConnellYN 6AZF212.3Konvekta58 – – – – –X –McConnellYN 6AZF318Hispacold63 – – – –X – –McConnellNN 5AZF212.5Hispacold –53 – – – –X –SegeYN 5AZF212.5Hispacold –53 – – – –X –SegeYN 5AZF212.5Hispacold –53 – – – –X –SegeYN 6OpticruiseScania212.5ThermoKing –48 –X – – – –StyleRideYY 6OpticruiseScania314.5Hispacold –58 –X – – – –SegeYY 6OpticruiseScania314.5Hispacold –58 –X – – – –SegeYY 6OpticruiseScania314.5Hispacold –58 –X – – – –SegeYY 5AZF212.5Hispacold57 – – – – –X –SegeYN 5AZF212.3Hispacold57 – – – – –X –SegeYN 6AScania212.3Denso57 – – – – –X –StyleRideYN 6AZF212.5Coachair – –44 – –X – –McConnellNN 6OpticruiseScania212.5Coachair – –44 – –X – –StyleRideNN 5AZF212.3Hispacold57 – – – – –X –SegeYN 6AZF212.5Coachair43 – – – –X – –McConnellNY ASVolvo212.5Denso44 – – – –x – –McConnellNY 5AZF212.5ThermoKing56 – – – – –x –StyleRideYN 5AZF212.3ThermoKing – –57 – – –X –McConnellNN 5AZF211.5ThermoKing43 – – – – –X –StyleRideYN 6AZF212.5ThermoKing57 – – – – –X –StyleRideYN 6ASVolvo212.3Hispacold –48 –X – – – –SegeYN 6ASVolvo314.5Hispacold –62 –X – – – –SegeYY 5AZF210-12.9ThermoKing – –44 – –X – –McConnellNY 5AZF210-12.9ThermoKing57 – – –X – – –StyleRideYY 5AZF210-12.9ThermoKing70 – – –X – – –StyleRideYN 6ASVolvo313-14.9Spheros –52 –X – – – –McConnellYY 6ASVolvo313-14.9Hispacold –57 –X – – – –SegeYY 6AZF210-12.9ThermoKing57 – – –X – – –McConnellNN 6AZF210-12.9ThermoKing – –41 – –X – –McConnellNY 6AZF210-12.9ThermoKing – –57 – –X – –McConnellNY 5AAllison212.4Cling-Yutong57 – – –X – – –YutongYN 5AAllison212.4Cling-Yutong57 – – –X – – –YutongYN 5AAllison212.4Cling-Yutong57 – – –X – – –YutongYN 6AAllison28Cling-Yutong27 – – – – –X –YutongYN 6AAllison28Cling-Yutong27 – – – – –X –YutongYN 6AAllison28Cling-Yutong27 – – – – –X –YutongYN

The great Kane

In March this year, the Australian bus and coach industry was left saddened by the news of the passing of bus enthusiast Peter Kane.

As a former long-standing member, committee member and president of the Bus and Coach Society of Victoria (BCSV), Kane’s reputation as a well-liked bus enthusiast and industry member was quickly forged.

In late March, Kane unfortunately lost his battle with cancer, resulting in an outpouring of tributes to Kane from friends and fellow BCSV members.

One of these was current BCVS president Geoff Foster, who sent through to ABC a heartfelt tribute to his friend.

“Peter Kane was my friend and I was proud to call him that,” Foster told ABC. “While I know relatively little of his early life, I knew him well for the past 40 years and travelled much of Australia with him during that time.”

Despite their close bond, Foster would meet Kane’s twin brother Mick first when he joined a fortnightly bus slide night group in the early 1980s. A year or two later, Peter, who was then working in magazine distribution, followed his keen interest in buses and came along to the group.

“They were an interesting pair who could either be in very happy mode or what we referred to as Grumpy Kane mode,” Foster says. “Depending on the month’s choice of hairstyle and facial hair, it was sometimes easy to tell them apart and other times less so.”

Foster’s friendship with Kane blossomed in 1984, when Kane joined Foster on the drive up to Sydney for the annual bus and coach show. It became the first of many trips that the pair went

on together over the next few decades. Highlights included a trip to the Northern Territory in 1989 and other bus hunting journeys all over Victoria, New South Wales, South Australia, Tasmania and Queensland.

“During this time, Peter also became active in the Bus and Coach Society, serving on the committee in various positions, including as treasurer from 1992 to 1994 and as president in 2000,” Foster says. “Our most memorable trip away was when we travelled to Sydney for the Olympics, doing it the hard way –four weeks via Adelaide, Uluru Mount Isa, Cairns and then down the coast.”

In the midst of these trips, Pete had joined Mick as a Ventura driver while

also becoming a keen photographer and bus enthusiast. When Facebook groups of bus photos started, Kane became a prolific poster.

“In recent years, Peter developed his own special thing,” Foster says. “He adopted two bridges across the Monash Freeway from which he could spend part of the morning or afternoon doing bus and truck photography.

“On several occasions he was approached by the police, who were concerned he might be about to jump!”

Kane’s persistence was immortalised last year when a passing Google Street View car captured Kane hanging around one of the bridges.

In addition to all of the tributes surfacing for Kane and his commitment to the bus industry, Foster and the BCSV conducted their own special celebration of Kane’s life. On operator Nuline Charter’s 25th anniversary tour run by the BCSV in late April, the group visited his bridge at Atkinson Street, Oakleigh, running along the freeway to allow Mick Kane to recreate Pete’s photo position on the bridge.

Foster wants the BCSV to continue Kane’s honour, calling for all bus enthusiasts to join them online to celebrate Kane’s many wonderful photos and legacy in the industry.

“Peter’s last few months were very sad for his family and friends,” Foster says. “I shall miss him greatly, both as a colleague and as a friend.”

In the months since bus enthusiast Peter Kane’s passing, the industry has found many ways to honour his legacy as a wonderful bus photographer and admirer

Above: Bus industry personality was well loved for his photos and passion (Photo – Geoff Foster)

Left: For decades Kane developed a love for buses (Photo – Geoff Foster)

“He adopted two bridges across the Monash Freeway from which he could spend part of the morning or afternoon doing bus and truck photography."