OFFICIAL IRISH JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL BUS/COACH AWARDS
www.fleet.ie Volume 8. No.1. Spring 2011
- first impressions last • FEATURE: SETRA CELEBRATES
• INTERVIEW: JOHN O'FLYNN, INTEGRATED TICKETING SCHEME - RPA
www.fleet.ie
contents SPRING 2011 28 NEWS New Bus Licensing Guidelines • Call for IRU & ITF Awards applications • Real time bus info for Dublin • Wrightbus cleans up with Cummins • Bus Eireann & GoBus join forces • Volvo Bus had a good 2010 Plus Bus Lane snippets 30 INTERVIEW With John O’Flynn, Integrated Ticketing System, RPA
Fleet Bus & Coach Magazine D’Alton Street, Claremorris, Co. Mayo, Ireland. Tel: +353 (0)94 9372819/ 9372826 Fax: +353 (0)94 9373571 Email: enquiries@fleet.ie ISSN: 1649-9433 Managing Editor: Jarlath Sweeney Editor: Sean Murtagh
Fleet Bus & Coach - the official Irish journal of the International Bus/Coach of the Year Awards.
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FB&C 3.11
32 COVER Test Drive Reports: Mercedes-Benz UNVI Cimo & Classic 34 FEATURE Setra celebrates with Kössbohrer 36 FLEETING SHOTS Snap-shot stories 38 OPINION Back Seat Driver Comments
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Caravan Cruise Ireland Spring 2011 edition out now at Newsagents Nationwide or by contacting 094 93 72826. Log on to www.caravancruise.ie Maiden Voyage: Setting out in the Ford Transit Dethleff Fortero
• Vehicle Wash Systems - Manual & Automatic • Water Recycling, Rainwater Harvesting & Pollution Control www.caravancruise.ie
IRELAND’S NEW MOBILE LEISURE & HOLIDAY MAGAZINE Volume 2. Number 1. Spring 2011
• Steel Safety Gantries and Platforms • High Pressure Wash Systems
Consultation, Manufacture, Supply and Service
INSIDE:
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• FOCUS ON FERRIES • CLUB SCENE • SHOW REVIEWS • MOBILE DINER • ADVICE
• READING MATTERS • AWARDS • ATTRACTIONS • LAUNCH PAD • DIRECTORY OF SERVICES
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Shows & Exhibitions 2011 • Win Family Tickets to Fota Wildlife Park
P.E Services, Unit 1, Crubany Business Park, Crubany, Co. Cavan. Tel: 049 4379144 / 4360109 Fax: 049 8545032 Email: info@peservices.ie Web: www.peservices.ie FLEETBUS&COACH | Spring 2011 27
NEWS 1
BUS LANE
Bus Licensing Guidelines issued
F
ollowing a public consultation process from July of last year, the National Transport Authority has issued guidelines for the licensing of public bus passenger services. It explains the Authority’s approach for considering licences for commercial public bus passenger service licences and covers applications, renewals, transfers and amendment. Time frames and conditions that may be applied are also outlined.
Driver CPC @ Irish Commercials One day Driver CPC Training is now being offered by Irish Commercials (Sales) Ltd., at its headquarters at The Gateway, Oberstown, Naas, County Kildare. For further details contact Arthur Ring by email aring@irishcomms.ie or on 086 0560211
Volvo & Optare for Arriva
The Public Transport Regulation Act 2009 (PTR 2009) established the basis for the Guidelines, which are applicable to all commercial public bus passenger services operating within the State. Th is licensing system replaces:-
Arriva, the multinational public transport company owned by Deutsche Bahn is investing heavily in Volvo and Optare buses for its operations in The Netherlands and Great Britain.
EU approves passenger rights After lengthy negotiations, the European Parliament has voted in favour of a regulation on rights of passengers travelling by bus and coach. After air, rail and water, now transport by road will also be covered by a specific set of rights for passengers, thereby completing the legal framework for users of all transport modes at EU level. Bus and coach passengers, and in particular passengers with a disability and people with a reduced mobility, will enjoy new rights that will protect them when they travel anywhere within the European Union. Siim Kallas, Commission Vice-President in charge of transport said: “Thanks to this new regulation, passenger rights will be extended also to bus and coach transport. Passengers travelling by road will benefit from the same basic service quality standards wherever and however they travel in the Union. With the adoption of a regulation on rights for bus and coach passengers EU passenger protection will now cover all modes. I am very satisfied that the EU has established the fi rst integrated area of passenger rights for all modes of transport in the world.”
Fleet Bus & Coach First with the news in the PSV industry www.fleet.ie 28 FLEETBUS&COACH | Spring 2011
As outlined in the Guidelines, application forms should be fi lled in electronically and include, as appropriate: •
•
• •
Volvo Buses has secured its largest order to date for hybrid buses with 27 Volvo 7700’s destined for the City of Dordrect. In the UK, 69 single and double-deck buses will be supplied by Optare during 2011. The contract worth £7.6m includes 16 Visionaire open-top double-deckers for use by The Original Tour on London sightseeing tours. These will have seating for 101 passengers and will be built on 12.35 metre Volvo B9TL tri-axle chassis. Optare plans to deliver the vehicles in time for the 60th anniversary of the service in June. The other 53 vehicles comprise of 41 Versa 11.1 metre models and 12 Solo 8.8 and 9.5 metre models, all Mercedes-Benz powered. They will be for various Arriva subsidiaries with deliveries scheduled through to September.
place for services provided by Bus Éireann and Dublin Bus.
•
The licensing system that has been operated under the Road Transport Act 1932 for services provided by operators from the private sector and; The notification system that had been in
Details regarding the nature of the proposed service, fares, estimated capacity of vehicles to be used, details of the accessibility status of vehicles proposed for the service; A detailed electronic timetable for the proposed service including a departure and arrival time for each pick-up and set-down point along the route on the outward and return journeys; An Ordinance Survey Ireland map to a scale 1:20,000 for urban and suburban areas and 1:50,000 for all other areas, preferably on a web-based geographical fi le, identifying and naming each set-down point clearly along the proposed route.
Call for Applications to IRU & ITF Awards • •
Sma r t Awa rds: promoti ng excellence in bus & coach transport International Transport Forum: 2011 Transport Achievement Award
T
hrough its Smart Move sister organisation, the International Road Transport (IRU) has issued a call for public and private candidates for three global awards for innovation, best practices and excellence in bus operation and coach tourism policy to promote and further facilitate sustainable mobility. Entries are now being accepted for the IRU City Trophy 2011, the IRU Bus Excellence Award 2011 and the new IRU Coach Tourism Innovation Award 2011 for best public or private business and policy practices that further sustain mobility by bus and coach in the framework of the global Smart Move campaign. The IRU City Trophy 2011 acknowledges and rewards municipal authorities that implement proactive policies favouring sustainable group tourism by coach. Formerly known as the Eurochallenge Award, the IRU Bus Excellence Award 2011, promotes high quality and cost-effective innovative projects implemented by any public or private bus/coach company, allowing for a greater use of regular urban and interurban public transport by bus and coach through improved att ractiveness. The IRU Coach Tourism Innovation Award 2011 is a brand new award aiming to recognise and promote best industry practices leading to a greater use of group tourism by coach. It is open to any private transport company worldwide whose main business is coach tourism. Projects
submitted should include company initiatives aimed at improving the image and attractiveness of coach tourism and in particular the creation of innovative new services, including on-board services; successful information and marketing campaigns; the implementation of customers service quality schemes; the implementation of environment and safety care programmes; etc. More details on www.busandcoach.travel. Meanwhile, the International Transport Forum at the OCED is showing how it is putt ing people first with its 2011 Transport Achievement Award, awarded jointly with the International Association for Public Transport (UITP), the European Association for Forwarding, Transport, Logistics and Customs Services (CLECAT) and the International Federation of Freight Forwarders Association (FIATA). The honour will recognise projects or initiatives that demonstrate excellence in identifying and efficiently meeting the transport needs of their clients. It aims to highlight the importance of taking seriously the transport needs of society, both in relation to personal mobility and to ensure ready access of goods within communities. More information on www.internationaltransportforum.org/2011.
NEWS 11
Real Time Passenger Information for Bus Services
D
ublin Bus has caught up with the LUAS, in terms of Real Time Passenger Information. Ten new electronic bus stop signs will inform passengers when their bus is due to arrive as part of a pilot project around Dublin with a view of having 450 units in place before the year end. Launched by the National Transport Authority, a web and text based service is also being developed to provide bus arrival information for the Greater Dublin Area. The new service is being delivered in co-operation with Dublin Bus, who is responsible for the automatic vehicle location system and the associated real time arrival predictions for their buses. The scheme can also take information from Bus Eireann and other licensed transport operators. Work has already started in Cork for a launch towards the end of this year in co-operation with Bus Eireann. The service will be established in
other cities around Ireland – Galway, Limerick and Waterford – next year. This live testing phase is designed to check the accuracy of the information on the first ten new signs. The project team is encouraging public feedback through a website: www.transportforireland.ie, which will be highlighted on the display signs at bus stops.
The signs can also carry other information about bus services or update messages for passengers from Dublin City Council’s traffic control centre and also incorporate the latest technology to ensure easy readability and comply with disability guidelines for electronic signage. Options are also being identified to assist blind or partially sighted people to use the bus network more easily using a combination of telephone and text services together with Braille identification of individual bus stops. To provide real time information, buses must be equipped with an Automatic Vehicle Location transmitter. A Global Positioning System (GPS) tracks the bus and sends a signal to the bus stop through a central control system. The screens at the bus stops count down the minutes until the bus arrives and are updated every 30 seconds, depending on where the bus is along its route, so information should always be up to date.
Wrightbus drives cleanest buses es on the planet with Cummins
L
ondon’s 21st century recreation of the iconic Routemaster bus to be manufactured by Wrightbus in Ballymena has teamed up with Cummins to produce one of the cleanest buses on the planet. NBfL – New Bus for London will be powered by the Cummins ISBe 4.5 litre diesel hybrid that is both designed and made in Darlington. It is already capable of meeting the EEV ultra low emissions standard without the need for additional particulate exhaust after-treatment. Alongside the engine, Cummins Emission Solutions has worked closely with Wrightbus to develop a unique after-treatment system that will allow the bus to meet the real world ultra low
emissions targets needed hile for the project. While en the oxides of nitrogen te (NOx) and particulate ns matter (PM) emissions he are reduced with the CR Euro V/EEV SCR onal system, an additional atalyst Diesel Oxidation Catalyst ween the (DOC) is fitted between engine and the SCR system to substantially reduce carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrocarbon (HC) emissions. The result is that it will have a carbon footprint less than half of the majority of buses operating in London today.
Bus Éireann & GoBus team up on Galway-Dublin-Galway route
I
n an innovative move between two private and public service providers, Galway-based GoBus.ie and Bus Éireann have come together to offer a broader range of services between Galway-Dublin City-Dublin Airport. The integration of services of both companies means that GoBus.ie passengers now have access to Bus Éireann’s extensive Expressway network and Bus Éireann can offer its customers the choice of 14 daily non-stop direct return services between Galway and Dublin. With the East-West motorway network now fully
operational, coach operators have cut the travel time down to 2 hours 30 minutes. The GoBus.ie award winning Volvo coach fleet provides excellent passenger safety and comfort. Features include toilet facilities, free Wi-Fi, a climate control ventilation system, great legroom, 3-point safety belts, adjustable head and foot rests and low interior noise. “We are delighted to be working in association with Bus Éireann on our direct Dublin-Galway return service,” said Jim Burke, Managing Director of GoBus.ie. “Over the past 12 months our non-stop service has proved hugely popular with locals and tourists alike, nonetheless, we are determined to continuously adapt and refocus our business to ensure that we constantly meet the needs of our customers and make our service better for them. Through this association with Bus Éireann we are able to offer our customers forward travelling options throughout the Country. Similarly, Bus Éireann will be in a position to offer customers greater variety with the option of a non-stop service,” added Jim.
The C Cummins ISBe 4.5 litre engine provides 185hp and iis mated to a Siemens hybrid transmission. The engine drives a generator, which supplies ene energy to a lithium-phosphate battery pack, wh in turn provides electrical current for which th new electric drive motors. Regenerative the br braking feeds otherwise wasted kinetic energy ba into the battery pack from the electric back mot motors.
Volvo Bus records strong year
D
espite the global bus market having its peaks and troughs Volvo Buses recorded a strong year in 2010, with more buses and coaches than 2009 with significantly improved earnings. With Europe characterised by continued weak demand, however, some positive signs were noted in the coach market. In North America, the coach market remained weak, but there are signs that the market has bottomed out. For city buses, the trend remained negative. The market in Mexico largely corresponded to the trend in the US, with low activity in general but major interest in the Bus Rapid Transit systems (BRT). Volvo is the leading supplier of buses for the BRT systems in Latin America. In South America, demand rose in the market for city buses and coaches. Likewise, the total bus market in Asia and Africa displayed a strong increase. It is primarily China and India that account for the largest increase. During 2010, Volvo delivered 10,229 buses, up from 9,857 in the preceding year. As a result, operating income improved significantly to a profit of SEK 780m (€89.145m) compared to a loss of SEK 350m (€40m) in 2009. The operating margin was 3.9% compared with a negative 0.8% in the fourth quarter of 2009. The income improvement was primarily due to increased sales volume, improved market mix and cost savings. FLEETBUS&COACH | Spring 2011 29
INTERVIEW
One-to-One John O'Flynn, Integrated Ticketing Scheme, Railway Procurement Agency, with Jarlath Sweeney editor@fleet.ie JS The long awaited Integrated Ticketing Scheme for Dublin is soon upon us. How is the project coming along? JOF There’s great momentum behind the project. The core elements of the scheme have been delivered or are near completion. The back-office has been largely delivered by IBM, the website is in the fi nal stages of development, the top-up network has been earmarked and many of the Smart Card readers have been upgraded to read the integrated Smart Card. Most significantly, we’re currently conducting a live test of the system on operational Dublin Bus and LUAS services, so that’s a huge step. JS W hat is the time schedule for introduction? JOF The full scale customer roll-out will take place in a few stages. The fi rst stage is scheduled to take place later this year, subject to successful testing. It will allow customers to pay-as-yougo on the participating transport operators. Once it’s up and running we’ll be incrementally introducing additional functionality such as the capacity to top-up the card with integrated period tickets. JS
How will it work?
John O’Flynn uses a test Integrated Ticketing Card on a Luas validator at Heuston Station, one of Dublin’s major transport interchanges. The card is currently being tested on LUAS and Dublin Bus services.
media to connect with customers, particularly regarding any special offers or promotions we’re running. We’re also going to have a lot of advertising on transport services as it’s the perfect connection moment. When people are fumbling for change and overpaying as they get on a bus we want them to see an ad for integrated ticketing and say “Hey, I want one of those!” JS Who are the main suppliers to the programme? JOF We have a huge range of Irish and International suppliers. HP will be responsible for the day to day operation of the scheme including providing customer support. The pointof-sale network for topping up cards is being provided by Payzone. Mapflow is partnering with Avego to supply ticketing equipment to private bus operators. IBM is providing the backoffice systems. Other suppliers include Eircom which is hosting our back office, Planet 21 is providing the communications network, Real Time Technologies has developed the device needed to read an integrated Smart Card, while Sequoia are ticketing scheme design experts.
JOF The scope of this project doesn’t go beyond the Greater Dublin Area. However, the systems we’ve developed are quite flexible, and could be adapted to be used nationwide. So, if funding becomes available there’d be plenty of opportunities to expand the scheme to other Irish cities. I hope that once the benefits of the scheme are proven in Dublin there’ll be a push to use our experience nationwide. JS W hat did the project cost to implement? JOF The total budget for the project is €55.4m which actually compares quite favourably to a lot of schemes we’ve researched around the world. JS Can other services be built into the Card System? JOF Yes, we’re looking at a wide range of opportunities including taxis, small payments in shops and other venues, as well as Dublin Bikes. But for now our real focus is gett ing the system working on the core public transport services in Dublin. JS How will ongoing issues/concerns/ enquiries be handled? JOF HP Ireland is contracted to operate the scheme. They will have a customer service help-desk, email address and website through which any customers’ issues can be handled as quickly as possible.
JS Once in operation, do you envisage that the other main Irish cities will introduce a similar ITS?
JOF It’s going to make paying for travelling around Dublin much easier. First, the customer will top-up the card with travel credit and/or period tickets. Then, the card will be used to pay for travel by simply holding it against an electronic reader. The readers are located on board buses, on Luas platforms, and in Irish Rail Stations. It will be a durable, reusable Smart Card so the customer will be able to repeat this cycle as often as they like. JS Where will the top-up points be located? JOF There’s going to be a huge range of choice for customers. They’ll be able to top-up at over 400 shops in and around Dublin, every LUAS stop and Irish Rail stop in the short-hop zone, and online through a dedicated website. JS How will you promote the new system: Internet/Twitter/Facebook? JOF Our dedicated website is going to be our primary platform for getting our information out there all in one place. We may also use social 30 FLEETBUS&COACH | Spring 2011
Private Bus Operators attend an information forum held by RPA for private transport operators who are interested in joining ITS.
CENTRAL BUS & COACH LTD The One Stop Shop for Bus & Coach Sales, Parts & Service in Ireland CENTRAL BUS & COACH LTD is the distributor for UNVI Bus & Coach products in Ireland. Located in Keenagh, near Ballymahon, County Longford, CBC are within easy reach of all areas of Ireland. CBC provide the following services to Coach and Bus operators. SALES New Bus & Coach Sales Used Bus & Coach Sales & brokeage CONTACT: LIAM FARRELLY liam@centralbusandcoach.ie PARTS Parts for all UNVI range Genuine Mercedes parts - overnight delivery Large stock of windscreen and side glazing Parts for all popular coach and minibus makes Volvo, DAF, MAN, Ford etc. CONTACT: DAVID QUINN parts@centralbusandcoach.ie SERVICE Service for all bus makes Warranty repairs for UNVI products Glazing for all bus makes Air conditioning service and repair DOE preparation and repair Brake testing (rolling road) Tyre fitting Diagnostics for all bus makes Towing and recovery (underlift) Valeting Signwriting CONTACT: JOHNNY CURRAN service@centralbusandcoach.ie
Used Coach Sales www.centralbusandcoach.ie for more used coaches SEE 2004 BMC Probus 35 seats + C, 220 hp Cummins engine, AC, DG, Radio, CD,PA, Driver and courier microphone, Power door, ZF manual gearbox, ZF axle, tables to fit, 200,000 km, mint condition, sold with minimum 6 months DOE
1997/98 Mercedes 0814 Euro Coach Imps choice, 33 service seats with certified belts, automatic, power door, recent repaint, all in test, ideal contract buses. Price €12,500
2005 Mercedes 616 Unvi Riada VIP only 177,151 kms, 16/22 black leather recliners, 2 tables, Top of the range coach with AC, DG, DVD, Radio, CD, PA, driver and courier mic, carpets, curtains, extra large boot, fridge, euroliner wheel trims, electric mirrors, power door. Also 2006 (140,000km)
2004 Mercedes Plaxton Cheetah manual, 29 + C, 250,000 km, DG, Radio, CD, PA, driver and courier microphone, Retarder, mint condition.
2004 MAN Beulas Midistar White, 37 seats, 55807 km shown, (Tacho replaced approx 141,000 km) Very high spec, AC, DG, Power door, Power lockers, Radio, CD, DVD, PA, electric mirrors, driver and courier mic, fridge, carpets, curtains, wheel trims,Seat belt certificate, Tacho calibration to 4/7/2014, Will be sold with new DOE €49,950
2006 Mercedes Riada 616,22 + C Leather Seats, Monitor/DVD, Double Glazing, AC, Luggage Racks, Decorative Curtains, PA System, 3 Point Seat Belts, Power door, Manual Gearbox, Large Boot, Euroliners, FSH, Very Clean, Will be sold with at least six months DOE
CENTRAL BUS & COACH LTD Keenagh, Co. Longford. Tel: 043 3322023 info@centralbusandcoach.ie www.centralbusandcoach.ie The New Name for UNVI in Ireland
2001 DAF SB3000 OVI 53 seats, certified belts, AC, DG, DVD, Radio cassette, PA, drivers and courier microphones, electric mirrors, power lockers, fridge
1997 Volvo 53 seats, certified belts, AC, DG, DVD, Radio cassette, PA, drivers and courier microphones, electric mirrors, €36,000
Don’t forget your Air Con servicing before season starts
COVER
Central Bus & Coach and UNVI ‘Plenty of seats available’ driving through a six-speed manual transmission. We found gear selection very positive, with the ratios nicely spaced helping to move the coach quickly up the gears, always managing to stay in the lower half of the green band. If preferred, automated options are readily available. On the road, CIMO exhibits the hallmarks of a larger touring coach, while remaining very easy to drive, it handles well, is very stable on twisting sections of tarmac, and the all-round disc brakes bring it to a confident stop. One point worthy of note was the highly accurate steering and excellent turning circle.
T
he old adage, which stresses the importance of first impressions still holds true. Arriving at ‘Central Bus & Coach’ in Kenagh, County Longford, you are immediately impressed - by the wellorganised appearance of the business. All vehicles parked in their proper place alongside a clean and tidy workshop, and everyone going about their work in an ordered fashion. We certainly noted that during our time there the vehicle-washing bay was constantly occupied, with vehicles being cleaned inside and out, before parked in the appropriate parking slot or taking to the road. The purpose of our visit to Central Bus & Coach was to drive two of the offerings from the UNVI Coach range. UNVI has achieved popularity in Ireland, as the Spanish manufacturer has built a strong reputation for constructing a wide variety of solid and att ractive body types. At its manufacturing facility in Ourense, UNVI produces bodywork for microbuses and midis through to top end-touring coaches. It also designs and builds special order vehicles, such as luxury hospitality units’ mobile workplaces and 4x4 crew transporters for remote work sites. However, our test units were not from UNVI’s luxury range, but were more suited to regular passenger transport in Ireland. First up was the CIMO 1024. The immaculate white paintwork and modern profile gives CIMO the appearance of a much larger vehicle. Th is is further enhanced by the mirror arrangement and contemporary lighting cluster. Being built on the Mercedes-Benz Atego chassis, helps to promote the sense of a large touring class vehicle, as the passenger seating position is relatively high. Passengers climb two steps then turn at right angles 32 FLEETBUS&COACH | Spring 2011
to enter the seating area. Occasionally this can be an issue for some elderly or infirm passengers. However, the CIMO offers a spacious entry with well-positioned handrails at all points through ascent. Safe entry is also helped by the floor covering which provides a high quality non-slip surface, even in wet conditions. Entry for the driver is through a separate door as the passenger handrail prevents cross cab access. While the door does not open to full 90o, two steps allow an easy climb to the driver’s seat. Though the parking brake is located to the right of the driver’s right knee, it does not impede access. Seating position is comfortable with good steering wheel adjustment and the wraparound cockpit offers a sensible ergonomic layout set into a pleasant wood effect dashboard. Switchgear and controls are standard issue Mercedes-Benz, and do their job in a practical and uncomplicated Germaneske style. From the driver’s seat, forward visibility is excellent. However, some drivers may favour a see-through panel in the nearside entry door. The mirror arrangement provides good rearward vision, with the additional mirror on the driver’s side giving an alternative to the overhead arm, which may not suit all driving positions. The forward mounted inline six-cylinder delivers 240 hp and has ample power to move a full complement of 35 passengers and their luggage. Our test vehicle was
In servicing the broad 35-seat market, few passengers could find fault with the coach. Clients booking the vehicle would believe they were getting good value for money - with the high level of comforts provided. Th is would no doubt shine a favourable light on any company’s image. CIMO is a highly practical coach that can handle the rough and tumble of school runs, yet offer refined comforts to touring groups. The bodywork is well put together with sturdy overhead storage and generous external luggage lockers. Furthermore, UNVI’s CIMO does not forget the needs of the driver. Our next run may have been a step down in vehicle size but not in levels of practicality. If there is a passenger transport vehicle that typifies reliability on regular day-to-day work, then the MercedesBenz 816 Vario chassis, powered by the OM904LA is it. The vehicle’s remarkable longevity is now reaching iconic status, and remains a favourite with operators throughout the Country. It has remained popular for a number of reasons, firstly its size and flexibility fits well with much of the private hire work in Ireland. Also good fuel economy from the exceptionally reliable and easy to maintain 160 hp Euro 4 engine,continues to validate its reputation. When fitted with UNVI’s 33-seat Classic body, the combination gives operators a high degree of flexibility and
COVER productivity. It is worth noting that under New Type Approval Regulations this 33-seat format may no longer be available after October 2011. Another important selling point is the Classic’s driveability; fitted with a straightforward sixspeed manual transmission allows any reasonably competent driver can handle the vehicle. The exceptional level of durability means the Classic can (within reason) withstand constant driver changes when operated in fleets. A prominently displayed three-pointed star adds a finishing touch to the smart body styling, helping to present a businesslike profi le to intending commuters. Inside our test unit was trimmed with a dark grey floor covering and two-tone grey seating, a sensible choice of colours, which should remain clean and serviceable for a long time. That said, these shades frequently make the interior appear dull and unfriendly. However, the Unvi’s large double-glazed window and roof hatch provides generous amounts of light, which conversely gives the interior a feeling of superior quality. The forward mounted Euro 4 engine has always sounded a little noisy when standing outside the coach, but revised soundproofi ng has further reduced noise levels and internally it is not a problem. Keeping the rev counter in the green band is not an issue as it ranges from 1,200 to 1,800 rpm, allowing a great deal of flexibility for urban driving. On the open road at 80 kp/h, the needle sits halfway at 1,500 rpm - which should help with fuel economy. While not as refined as the bigger CIMO, the Classic is nonetheless very enjoyable to drive, and you quickly appreciate its robustness and strength. Parabolic springs combined with front and rear stabilisers ensure road holding is firstrate, and passengers are guaranteed a comfortable journey. All round discs provide assured braking and the steering is nicely weighted. Overall, the driving position is fine, though one criticism we have is the high location of the driver’s seat-belt anchorage point. Depending on body shape, some drivers may prefer the belt to be anchored lower than it is – though, this small issue is due to be rectified shortly. As an investment, the Classic is a well-proven solid and reliable passenger vehicle, which can be put to any type of work. Proof of which can be seen on a daily basis on the roads of Ireland. Features such as good fuel economy, driveability and passenger comforts will all help to ensure it remains one of the most popular passenger vehicles on the road. Our test day showed that both units performed well, were good to drive and should create the positive impression with passengers. Drivers are well catered for as both vehicles help to make the job as comfortable as possible. The standard specifications are well suited to the needs of the Irish market - though if required UNVI, can equip vehicles with a host of optional extras. First impressions indicate that Central Bus & Coach was well worth the visit.
Text & Photos: Paul White – paul@fleet.ie
Spec Check Seating Capacity as tested Chassis Type Engine Cylinders Rated Power Euro Rating Transmission Brakes
UNVI Cimo 1024 35 Mercedes-Benz (M-B) Atego 1024 M-B - OM924LA In-line six-cylinder 240 hp / 179 kW 4 Six Speed Manual Discs all round Telligent (ABS) Bridgestone R227 235/75 R17.5
UNVI Classic 33 Mercedes-Benz (M-B) Vario 816 M-B - OM904LA In-line four-cylinder 160 hp / 120 kW 4 Six Speed Manual Discs all round Engine Brake/ (ABS) Bridgestone R227 215/75 R17.5
9130 mm 4820 mm 2420 mm 3260 mm 5 cu.m
8560 mm 4800 mm 2420 mm 3150 mm 3.6 cu.m
Features
Th ree point seatbelts Air conditioning Double glazed windows Entertainment System
Th ree point seatbelts Individual ventilation Double glazed windows Entertainment System
Seating Options
35 / 31 Toilet Available (31 Seat option)
29 / 33* *33 Seat version may not be available aft er October 2011.
Tyres Size Dimensions Length Wheelbase Width Height Luggage Capacity
FLEETBUS&COACH | Spring 2011 33
FEATURE
Setra celebrates on the double at Retro Classics 2011
A
t the forthcoming Retro Classics 2011 Show in Stuttgart (11/13 March) Setra, Daimler’s luxury coach brand celebrates 60 years in the business while its production plant in Ulm, Germany marks its 100 th anniversary.
The highlight of its four vintage buses (from 1911 to 1976) on display in Hall 8 will be the first Setra bus ever produced bearing the chassis number 001. This vehicle was presented to bus companies for the fi rst time at the Frankfurt International Motor Show in 1951. The defining characteristic of this vehicle was that it did not use a truck frame as its base. Instead, a self-supporting frame was lined with sheet metal to form the vehicle’s body. It could be said that this method was the start of the integrated modular system of bus coachworks. Other features of the fi rst Setra include a six-cylinder Henschel rear engine rated at 74 kW (100 hp), under-floor luggage compartments and a fully synchromeshed fivespeed ZF manual transmission.
An early Kässbohrer bus body, Mercedes-Benz N1 from 1927
The 200 series in the Setra brand’s 25th year opened another successful chapter in its history books. Th is generation of vehicles introduced cross-flow ventilation, whereby fresh air was channelled draught-free into the passenger compartment along the entire length of the vehicle. The exhibit is the prototype of the 200 model series and is fitted with an OM 403 10-cylinder V engine from Mercedes-Benz rated at 235 kW (320 hp). It was 100 years ago, in February 1911, when Kässbohrer undertook its fi rst step in the field of bus construction. The fi rst Kässbohrer bus was built on a Saurer truck chassis for the city of Ulm’s fi rst bus service running from Münsterplatz to the suburb of Wiblingen. The exhibit is a fully functional replica of the lost original. The vehicle possesses a four-cylinder Saurer petrol engine with an output of around 29 kW (40 hp). The wooden body has 18 seats plus space for around ten standing passengers.
Kässbohrer body with glazed edge to the roof and sunroof on Mercedes-Benz model Mannheim
Setra’s compact bus dating from 1956 was built on the chassis of the Opel Blitz, which was highly popular among bus companies at the time. With the introduction of the Setra S 6, compact buses were also produced in self-supporting design from the mid-1950s. The exhibit is fitted with a six-cylinder petrol engine rated at 46 kW (62 hp). A Kässbohrer luggage trailer compensates for the lack of space in the luggage compartment. With over 1,000 exhibitors, Retro Classics 2011, is an International tradeshow for vintage and classic vehicles, replacement parts and restoration which takes place at the Stuttgart Exhibition Centre. 34 FLEETBUS&COACH | Spring 2011
The prototype of product range 200: Setra S215 HD from 1976
FEATURE
Kässbohrer – Daimler – Setra:
A 3-way relationship
The first Setra coach (S8) 1951 with the current Setra S415 HD Special Edition - "60 Years of Setra, 100 Years of Bus & Coach Expertise"
K
arl Kässbohrer, the former Ulm based commercial vehicle manufacturer which celebrates its 100th anniversary this year formed the foundation stones to Setra, the luxury coach brand from Daimler AG. In fact the business relationship between the big ‘K’ (as seen on the steering wheel on all Setra models) and the Stuttgart based global company dates back to 1910. Co-incidentally, the Setra brand is 60 years old also! 11 February 1911 was the significant milestone as it was the actual start of the eventful history of Kässbohrer buses. Th is was the day the first Ulm bus line was opened, going from Ulm’s Minister Square to the southern suburb of Wiblingen. The transport company was founded especially for this event with Karl Kässbohrer as one of the partners and his share was his fi rst motorbus. The bus was built on a Saurer chassis with 18 seats and standing room for ten people and was powered by a strong four-cylinder engine with a performance of 22 kW/30 hp. The whole body was well in advance of its time: in contrast to what was usual at that time, the driver was already sitt ing in a closed driving cab – the very fi rst of its kind in a German commercial vehicle. In Europe following World War I there was an increasing demand for mobility. A great number of vehicle manufacturers which are hardly remembered today and the emerging transport industry with its numerous mediumsized companies already relied at this time on the Mercedes-Benz chassis and Kässbohrer bus bodies. A prime example of the co-operation
Text: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie
between the two bus pioneers was the streamlined coaches developed by Kässbohrer in 1935 for the German National Railway. They were built by Kässbohrer on a Daimler-Benz chassis. These coaches were designed for use on scheduled services on the new motorways. They were supposed to keep to an average speed of 100 km/h and reached a top speed of 130 km/h. To achieve this, Daimler-Benz fitted the chassis with an especially fast gear-changing transmission and high speed tyres. These coaches were also used for the newly-opened scheduled service Leipzig – Berlin. Then in 1938, the largest coach in the world at that time, was built by Kässbohrer and it was also the product of joint development. The four-axle coach was towed by a Mercedes-Benz articulated truck, model LZ 8000, a world innovation in the truck sector. The overall length of the vehicle was 18.7m long and provided enough room for 170 passengers. From 1976 on, the co-operation became even closer. At that time, Kässbohrer launched his bus product range 200. With this product range, Setra customers – following the integration of the previous engine supplier Henschl from Kassel in the Daimler-Benz Group – could choose between Mercedes-Benz or MAN diesel engines. Very soon, the proportion of Mercedes-Benz engines used in Setra buses and coaches had grown to almost 90 percent and Kässbohrer was one of the largest single customers in the non-captive market for the well tried and tested drive systems from Mannheim. Nowadays, all Setra buses and coaches with a performance range from 210 to 370 kW are fitted
with state-of-the-art low-pollution and extremely cost-effective Mercedes-Benz diesel engines with SCR technology from Mannheim. It is typical of the more than 80 years of good business relations between the Stuttgart automotive group and the medium-sized automobile manufacturer, that when Karl Kässbohrer Vehicle Manufacturers Ltd found itself in fi nancial difficulties in the mid-nineties of the 20th century the former Mercedes-Benz AG offered the Ulm company a co-operation agreement. Mercedes-Benz AG made an offer for Kässbohrer’s bus and coach sector with a job guarantee till the end of 1998. The first steps were thus taken towards the EvoBus GmbH which was founded in 1995 as a 100 percent Daimler subsidiary to combine the bus and coach activities of Mercedes-Benz Omnibus and the Kässbohrer brand Setra.
FLEETBUS&COACH | Spring 2011
35
FLEETING SHOTS
Hire Service introduces accessible minibuses to fleet nnovative Dorset based vehicle hire specialists Abacus has launched a new short to midterm hire service for organisations that need fully equipped accessible minibuses for the transportation of disabled or elderly passengers. Th is unique facility could provide an opportunity for an operator over here to do the same thing.
I
“We now operate two low f loor Peugeot Boxer Accessible Minibuses built with the flexibility to carry 16 passengers plus driver or a combination of wheelchairs and passengers. We are adding a further two accessible buses, one a Mercedes Sprinter and the other a Renault Trafic, to meet demand,” said Ron Bray.
Ron Bray, Mini Bus Account Manager at Abacus (pictured), said that the company has identified a need for the specialist vehicles to be available for schools and charities with contracts starting from just a week hire period or longer leasing up to 5 years.
He added, “Our own body shop carries out the full bespoke conversions.”
Scania to supply 141 buses to Stagecoach Group
9
1 Double-Deck and 50 SingleDeck Scania buses are destined for Stagecoach operations throughout the UK. Supplied with Alexander Dennis bodywork, all vehicles will be fitted with Scania’s 9-litre Euro 5 and EEV engines which deliver 230 horsepower and 1,050 Nm of torque mated to ZF HP504 fi ve and six-speed fully automatic gear boxes. The Double-Deckers, based on the Scania N-series, will be equipped with Alexander Dennis Enviro 400 bodywork, seating 47 on the upper deck, 29 on the lower deck and space for 16 standees. The single-deckers are built on the Scania K-series with Alexander Dennis Enviro 300 bodywork, fitted with 43 seats and with the number of standees yet to be decided.
“Scania double-deck buses are well proven within our fleet and their reliability, performance and fuel economy has led us to specify them once again,” comments Stagecoach Group Managing Director Les Warneford. “This positive operating experience has also influenced our choice of single-deckers. Th is order marks our fi rst significant purchase of such vehicles from Scania and they will be the fi rst to be equipped with Alexander Dennis Enviro 300 bodywork.” The Stagecoach Group is a leading International public transport group, with extensive operations in the UK, United States and Canada. The company employs around 35,000 people, and operates bus, coach, rail and tram services.
Volvo Bus continues its support of Teenage Cancer Trust
V
olvo Bus aims to raise £100,000 to support the Teenage Cancer Trust’s West Midlands Appeal following the highly publicised success of the company’s 2010 initiative which raised £60,000 towards a new £1 million dedicated unit at Birmingham’s Children’s Hospital last year. “Every litt le bit that we can do to support Teenage Cancer Trust will hopefully go some way to improving the lives of young people diagnosed with cancer in the region,” explained Volvo Bus Managing Director, Steve Dewhurst. “We raised a significant amount of money in 2010, with some excellent events and people worked 36
FLEETBUS&COACH | Spring 2011
really hard to raise as much money as possible, I hope we can replicate or even better that in 2011.” “Whilst the events planned for the year are still to be fi nalised everybody at the company is eager to support the drive to make a difference to young people’s lives by their commitment to achieve their target of £100,000,” he added. Picture shows TV motoring celebrity Quentin Wilson making a donation at the Euro Bus Expo last November.
Text: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie
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VOLVO BUS. DRIVING QUALITY OF LIFE
OPINION
Back Seat Driver by Sean Murtagh
Aircoach sets the standard
L
ast month, the second annual Irish Logistics and Transport Awards took place in front of an audience of Chartered Institute of Transport & Logistics (CILT) members and other interested parties from the industry. As always at these events there is plenty of excitement and anticipation, as the fi nalists wait to hear which of them will take the ultimate glory. 43 fi nalists from all sectors of the transport industry were competing in 12 different category awards. When the category winners were announced, an overall all-winner had to be selected from this group. Aircoach was announced as the overall Logistics and Transport Excellence Award. A spokesperson for the judging panel described the company as a “Class Act”. Earlier in the evening the Dublin based commuter service provider Aircoach had won the Safety Award. Safety is a key priority for all modes but one usually associated with airlines and shipping companies. It is indeed a recognition of the whole bus and coach sector and how serious passenger safety is regarded. Allen Parker, Aircoach Managing Director who received the award on behalf of the company said he was delighted to have been selected as the number one operator in the Country. He stressed that the award was a recognition of the hard work put in by all of the company staff in the area of passenger and staff safety. Quite obviously the judges agreed and they were especially impressed by Aircoach’s total commitment and focus on passenger safety and comfort. Bus and coach travel is one of the safest forms of transport and continued investment by manufacturers makes sure it remains that way. Last year the overall winner of the event was Irish Ferries.
Allen Parker CEO of Aircoach receiving the Overall Logistics and Transport Excellence Award for 2011 from CILT President Paul Mallee
Aircoach is part of the First Group, a UK company in business for over 20 years and now carries 2.5 million passengers per year. Between Ireland and England the group operates 9,000 vehicles.
this figure? Well the story goes that he managed to get his hands on their timetable and that by studying this document he was able to estimate the number of aircraft in the fleet. True and original transport genius.
Political Transport A key feature of the election campaign is the leaders moving around the Country as they visit the various constituents. In years gone by most of the parties had full size coaches painted up in party colours and a full size picture of the party leader. Maybe there is a feeling now that such a display of colour could become an object inviting vandalism. Certainly speaking to some of the political parties the emphasis is on smaller vehicles. In the case of the Green Party it has chosen a Volkswagen Transporter BlueMotion as its campaign MPV. Nicola Cassidy, Press Officer with the Green Party was very keen to point out the environmentally friendly features of the Volkswagen Transport’s Start Stop system to cut out the engine whilst the vehicle is stopped in traffic and has regenerative braking. Meanwhile over at the Labour Headquarters four 7-seater Ford Galaxy’s are the backbone of its transport fleet. Fine Gael did venture a litt le bigger and used a 2006 Iveco Indcar Wing to transport party leader and Taoiseach elect Enda Kenny and his party of canvassers around the Country. In the regions some of the candidates have 4x4 SUVs personally branded with the candidates details in large colour. One of the highest profi le campaigns in terms of vehicles is that of South Tipperary candidate Matt ie McGrath, with no less than four vehicles decked out with Matt ie’s smiling face in full view. Over in the West, Luke 'Ming' Flanagan travelled around in his Ford Transit Campervan. Let us hope that when elected the new Government will have the same enthusiasm to rebuild our damaged economy.
Dublin Bus For Sale by Tender the following Vehicles:
When Aircoach commenced trading it provided a service linking Dublin Airport with all of the City Centre hotels and the South-side of the City. In recent times they provided a service between Dublin and Cork. Allen Parker said that while business was challenging at the moment but they were recruiting drivers to work at their Dublin Airport depot.
Dr. Garrett Fitzgerald honoured by CILT T hrough its awards programme the CILT honoured former Taoiseach and Fellow of the Institute Dr. Garrett Fitzgerald by presenting him with a Lifetime Achievement Award. Institute President Paul Mallee said that Dr. Fitzgerald had made a massive contribution to the debate about Transport Gerry Drum, Enterprise Manager of the Irish Policy. In his early career Independent presents Dr. Garrett FitzGerald with Garrett Fitzgerald worked the Lifetime Achievement Award with Aer Lingus. There is an anecdote that claims he was the fi rst person to accurately estimate the size of the aeropilot of aircraft . In the period of the Cold War information like that would have been sensitive and well guarded. So how did Dr. Fitzgerald calculate 38 FLEETBUS&COACH | Spring 2011
4 x 1994 “ME” Class Mercedes-Benz Mini-Buses 4 of - Mercedes-Benz 709D Minibuses with ‘Euro Coach’ bodywork, Featuring Mercedes-Benz OM364 engines with Allison AT545 fully automatic transmission & Telma electric retarder, Vehicles are converted to “Ticket Bus” Con¿guration. Original Seating Capacity: 23 DoT Test Certs: ME21 – Exp 09.11.11/ ME22 – Exp 09.06.11 /ME 26 – Exp 20.05.11/ ME 27 – Exp 22.03.11
These vehicles are due to be withdrawn from the Dublin Bus Àeet by end of April 2011.
To request a tender form and to make arrangements to view the vehicles please contact :Mr. Chris Quinlan, Procurement Manager, Dublin Bus, 21 Phibsboro Road, Dublin 7, Ireland. Telephone: +353-1-7033472 Facsimile: +353-1-8303126 Email: chris.quinlan@dublinbus.ie Closing date for receipt of completed tenders is 17.00 on Monday, March 21st 2011 Text: Sean Murtagh – sean@fleet.ie
A new 2 day special has been designed specifically for Bus & Coach operators to include:
• Driver CPC • Digital Tachograph • Manual Handling • Emergency First Aid The IRMC is a FETAC registered training centre and has approved status from both the Road Safety Authority (RSA) and the Irish Heart Foundation. This 2 day special is conducted by a team of qualified trainers
All-In Course Fee €350 for Clients of (Normal rate €500) to include • 1 night B/B • Lunch and refreshments • Limited numbers
• Course Materials • Qualified Trainers • Certification
(16 participants to each trainer)
For further information please contact: 045 878500 or Email: irmc@jfd.ie
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