Fleet Bus And Coach Summer 2011 by Orla Sweeney

OFFICIAL IRISH JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL BUS/COACH AWARDS

www.fleet.ie Volume 8. No.2. Summer 2011

“Superstar has been made even better” www.busandcoach.travel

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GETTING, THERE TOGETHER

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www.fleet.ie

contents SUMMER 2011 28 NEWS CTTC reacts to Government’s Jobs Initiative • MAN wins design Award • Bus & Coach Sales in decline • Optare to move • IRU Head to present Smart Move Fleet Bus & Coach Awards 2012 in association with Groeneveld • Another new UNVI for Scales 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. Cover photo: Paul White

SUBSCRIPTION FORM Please send me an issue of Fleet Transport magazine (plus supplements) every month for one year starting with the next available issue for the cost of €65 (Ireland), €85 (Europe) €120 US. Name: Job Title Company: Email: Address: Phone: Fax: Three ways to subscribe: 1. Cheque made payable to Fleet Transport for € 2. Please charge my debit/credit card for the amount of € Laser, Mastercard, Visa, Electron & Maestro. Card No. Expiry Date: CVV No. Signature: Date: 3. Please invoice me for € Purchase Order No. (if applicable). Send completed form to: Subscriptions, Fleet Transport Magazine, D’Alton Street, Claremorris, Co. Mayo, Ireland. Fax: +353 94 937357

FB&C 6.11

32 COVER Introducing the new Mercedes-Benz Citaro 34 INNOVATION 1 Focus on Groeneveld 36 FLEETING SHOTS Tribute to Dermot Cronin • DAF celebrates • Irish Ferries link with Eurolines 38 OPINION Back Seat Driver by Sean Murtagh

P 29

P 37

To view & drive the

contact

WESTWARD SCANIA Strokestown, Co. Roscommon Tel: +353 71 963 4500 www.westwardscania.com FLEETBUS&COACH | Summer 2011 27

NEWS 1

BUS LANE New Volvo Plaxton flagships for Matthews Award winning Matthews Coach Hire has upgraded its coach fleet with the arrival of five new Volvo B9R coaches with Plaxton Panther bodywork at its headquarters in Monaghan. The five Volvo B9Rs are specified with Volvo 9.4 litre D9B diesel engine, which is rated at 380 hp. They each have 61 theatre-style configuration seats with integrated three-point safety belts and leather headrests. Also featured on the new vehicles are climate control air-conditioning, audio/visual system, an in-built CCTV system, alcolock system and WiFi capability. GPS tracking and fleet management system are fitted along with electronic destination equipment.

Jobs initiative was a wasted opportunity says CTTC

“T

here is litt le in the Government’s Jobs Initiative that will assist the coach touring industry,” says the representative organisation for Ireland’s coach touring operators, the Coach Tourism & Transport Council (CTTC). “It was a wasted opportunity,” said Chief Executive of the CTTC Gerry Mullins, “The VAT reduction will not apply to inputs in the coach touring industry, and the Employers’ PRSI reduction will only apply in very few cases. The measures may benefit the airlines and the restaurants, but not the companies who bring tourists from the airlines to the restaurants,” he added. “The biggest threat to jobs in the coach industry is the level of taxation on diesel. If the Government is interested in stemming the loss of tourists to our competitors in Britain, it would reduce the VAT on diesel for touring coaches to 9%.”

However, the CTTC welcomes the proposal to introduce a visa waiver programme, particularly because the CTTC had taken the lead in the campaign for this reform. “Last year we began the campaign to have the visa system reformed,” saying Mr. Mullins. “At the time the Department of Justice showed litt le signs of changing the system saying it was a ‘vital initial fi lter for the State in protecting the integrity of its borders’. We are happy to see that common sense has prevailed, but also note that the reform is temporary and only for 14 nationalities.” Representatives of the CTTC met with the Minister for Transport, Tourism & Sport Leo Varadkar and expressed their disappointment in the Jobs Initiative Programme.

International Design Award for the MAN Lion’sCity Hybrid Five into six does go for O’Connors! Bandon, County Cork based O’Connor Coach Hire recently took delivery of a new Volvo B9R coach from McCarthy’s Commercials. It’s the company’s fi ft h Volvo purchase in six years. The new Volvo B9R is fitted with a 9.4 litre Euro 5 engine, rated at 380 hp, and is coupled to the I-Shift gearbox. It is specified with Sunsundegui bodywork and is customised in O’Connor’s distinctive white with a red livery. Featuring 51 reclining and stylish club class executive seats with leather headrests, the interior of the coach is specified to a high standard. It incorporates a functional centre demountable toilet, seven CCTV cameras and two television monitors. Climate control, hot and cold running water, WiFi and integrated audio visual equipment are all installed to provide optimum passenger comfort, whilst satellite navigation and a reversing camera offer extra support to the driver.

Fleet Bus & Coach First with the news in the PSV industry www.fleet.ie 28 FLEETBUS&COACH | Summer 2011

Illustrious panel at Challenge Bibendum in Berlin honours MAN city bus for its 'Intelligent' vehicle design.

he MAN Lion’s City Hybrid has been honoured with the Design Award in the category "Urban Bus" by an international panel at the Challenge Bibendum 2011 in Berlin. The panel of judges, which included designers, technical experts and journalists from Brazil, China, Germany, France and Japan praised the "aesthetically sophisticated" design of the city bus, which is the successful embodiment of a sustainable mobility concept in an intelligent vehicle design.

percent less fuel than a conventional, dieselpowered city bus. That is the equivalent of a CO2 reduction of around 30 percent. Moreover, the fact that the MAN Lion’s City Hybrid pulls away from traffic lights and bus stops in almost complete silence is compelling. The Design Award is the second prize that MAN's city bus has received for its attractive looks - it has already been honoured with the "red dot" award.

Thanks to its innovative drive concept, the MAN Lion’s City Hybrid consumes up to 30

EU Bus & Coach sales remain in decline

ver the fi rst quarter of this year, all segments of new commercial vehicle registrations posted growth in the EU, with the exception of buses/coaches. In addition, the category of buses and coaches was the only one to decline in March (-13%). According to ACEA, the European body for vehicle manufacturers, total sales of new commercial vehicles were up almost 15% from the same period in 2010. Looking at the bigger important markets, performances were diverse as Spain expanded by 55.2% while the UK shrank by 45.9%. Germany saw its market contract by 18.4% and France by 4.5%. Cumulative results from January

to March 2011 showed a 1.8% decrease of the EU market. The UK remained the largest although contracting by 34.3%, followed by France (-12.1%) and Germany (-5.0%). Spain was the only one to post growth among major markets (+69.8%) but lagged behind in terms of volumes (856 units). The Irish situation is positively different, as a 20.69% increase in trade has been recorded. Total January to March 2011 versus Quarter 1 2010 sees 27 more units registered. Almost 80% of these passenger vehicles were imported however, with Volvo and Setra the leading brands here.

NEWS 11

Optimism at Optare with plans for new plant

ritain’s fi rst new bus assembly plant for 40 years will open in September as Optare plc increases its bus building capacity. The new 140,000 sq. ft . facility at Sherburn in Elmet, 11 miles from the current Optare site at Crossgates in Leeds will turn out an estimated 1,200 buses annually at full capacity on two shift s. It will be leased from Evander Properties for at least 17 years. With Optare’s current order book at record levels together with future growth plans which includes increased levels of export activity, it is optimism all round at the once beleaguered company that went through various owners since fi nding security with Indian conglomerate Ashook Leyland. Optare’s CEO Jim Sumner says the move is the culmination of a focused strategy during the turnaround at Optare to consolidate manufacturing into a single modern facility. “When I joined Optare just under two years ago it was manufacturing on three sites with all

to the current plant layouts. Even given the constraints of the current sites, we have still been developing and testing elements of this new approach in Blackburn and Leeds that can now be brought together on the new site.”

the management and fi xed cost challenges this brings,” he said. “Each of these established sites also came with their own specific layout, facility and skills bott lenecks making realistic estimates of production capacity very sensitive to changes in product mix. Th is has particularly been the case with the rapid increase in Green Bus volumes which requires more space in the fi nishing shop for Hybrid/Electric system assembly and testing.” He continued, “With a continuous U-shape flow line using dedicated line-side subassembly areas to balance production, this will allow a more optimal production flow compared

“Overall this new flexible manufacturing plant will allow us to offer a full range of single and double-deck models to satisfy all market sectors and in both left and right hand drive while keeping fi xed costs down. It will also address concerns amongst major UK and European operators about Optare’s capacity to deliver larger fleet contracts,” he concluded. The strategic location of the new plant provides fast access to the A1M and M62, supporting easier delivery of finished buses to all parts of the UK and to the Port of Hull for shipment to the Continent. The location will also enable speedier supply of components from a range of ‘Best Cost Country’ suppliers through Optare’s strategic collaboration with Ashok Leyland.

IRU Passenger President to present Fleet Bus & Coach Awards in association with Groeneveld

r. Graham Smith (pictured), President IRU Passenger Transport Council is to present the prizes at the Fleet Bus & Coach Awards 2012 in association with Groeneveld, to be held on 3 October at Johnstown House Hotel, Enfield, County Meath. The Head of the Geneva based International Road Transport Union's Passenger Division, and CEO of the Heyfordian Travel Group in Oxford, UK, will announce details of the IRU’s Smart Move Campaign. For the fourth running of the bi-ennial Fleet Bus & Coach Awards in association with Groeneveld , will comprise of a number of categories that cover both the coach and bus sectors. For the dedicated coach operator, as before, there are three main categories – Commuter, Inter-City and Tours. There is a Bus Operator of the Year title to be won, while both sectors can compete for the other remaining categories including Safety, Best Livery, Care for the Environment and Innovation. Full details and entry form are featured on the next page or downloadable in the Fleet Bus &

Coach section of the www.fleet.ie website. Following the Bus & Coach presentation and lunch, the annual Fleet Forum will be held at the same venue. Th is information seminar covering the topic ‘Commercial Vehicles – from New to Used’ will highlight the importance of vehicle maintenance, tyre management and telematics in road and passenger transport. There is no cover charge to attend the Forum or Bus & Coach Presentation Luncheon, but interested parties must register in order to obtain entry to this ticket only event. Th is also applies to trade media who wish to attend.

New Mercedes-Benz UNVI Sprinter GT for Scales Bus Tours Pictured is Joseph Scales with Liam Farrelly, Central Bus & Coach with his most recent purchase of an UNVI Classic 33 seater. This vehicle joins the UNVI GT VIP supplied to Scales of Ennistymon, County Clare earlier this year.

Contact Fleet Publications’ Head Office on 094-9372826 or by email awards@fleet.ie

FLEETBUS&COACH | Summer 2011 29

AWARDS 1

Fleet Bus & Coach Awards 2012

nce again Fleet Bus & Coach Magazine is paying tribute to the Nation’s Bus and Coach operators at its bi-ennial Fleet Bus & Coach Awards 2012. In association with title sponsors Groeneveld, the Awards presentation event will take place on Monday 3 October 2011 at 11.00am at Johnstown House Hotel, Enfield, County Meath. For the fourth running of the Awards categories, include Bus Operator of the Year, Safety Award, Best Livery, Care for the Environment and Innovation Award. For the dedicated coach operator, as before there are three main categories – Commuter, Inter-City and Tours. Coach Operator of the Year 2012 Awards will be presented to the winner and runner-up in each category.

Commuter: Operators that provide a scheduled service in urban areas can apply or be nominated for this category.

Following the Fleet Bus & Coach Awards Presentation and Lunch, the annual Fleet Forum will be held at the same venue. This Information Seminar will cover the topic ‘Commercial Vehicles – From New to Used’. There is no cover charge to attend the Seminar or the Awards Presentation, but you must register in order to obtain entry to this ticket only event.

Registration to attend this element of the event is now open, just email orla@fleet.ie or telephone 094 9372826.

Safety: Bus/Coach companies entering this category should indicate that they embrace safety as a culture. Having a Safety Plan to include Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment must encompass the company’s daily activities.

Livery:

Service providers from rural areas to urban centres or to the Capital city are to be honoured here.

Operator’s corporate image is under scrutiny here in this category. Through stylish and modern livery your vehicle can turn into attractive mobile billboards. If employees wear uniforms, extra marks are given.

Tours:

Care For The Environment:

With coach tourism playing a major part of Failte Ireland’s annual figures, operators in this specialist field are seen as ambassadors for the Country.

Increases in efficiencies through savings in fuel consumption. Operation of Euro 5/EEV or alternative powered engines and adhering to a strict recycling/waste disposal regime come under the spotlight here.

Inter-City:

Bus Operator of the Year: Th is award is confined to operators of minibus/ midicoach fleets. Applicants must be members of Pambo or FOTO.

Endorsed by the Road Safety Authority details of the categories for the Fleet Bus & Coach Awards 2012 sponsored by Groeneveld are listed below. Entries can be submitted by individual operators, their customers or suppliers.

Innovation: “A new method, idea or product of a technological nature designed to enhance operators for the company or add to the comfort zone of the passenger.”

About Groeneveld Based in Gorinchem, The Netherlands, the Groeneveld Group is active in development, production, marketing and sales of innovative products and services in over 30 countries for more than 40 years. Its extensive product range provides commercial vehicle operators and industrial engineering companies with solutions for automatic maintenance and active safety. Groeneveld’s IT division, GreenCat offers “IT solutions for the moving world” ranging from onboard computer to Transport Management Systems. Hi-Power Limited (Cork & Dublin) is the Groeneveld distributor for Ireland.

Entry Form Fleet Bus & Coach Awards 2012 sponsored by Groeneveld Name: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Position: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Company Name: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. Contact Person: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Company Address: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Telephone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mobile: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Fax: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Email: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Nominated by: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Category Entering - Please tick boxes

Presentation and lunch

Coach Operator of the Year 2012

Commuter Inter-City Tours

Bus Operator of the Year Safety Award Livery Care for the Environment Innovation Award

Your Signature: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Date: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Please send completed Entry Form plus additional material by Friday 29th July 2011 to Competition Secretary, Fleet Bus & Coach Awards 2012, D’Alton Street, Claremorris, County Mayo. Tel: 094 93 72819 Fax: 094 93 73571 Email: awards@fleet.ie 30 FLEETBUS&COACH | Summer 2011

3 October

Coach & Bus Live 2011

working together

NEC Birmingham Wednesday 5 - Thursday 6 October 2011 In touch and in tune with all that is new in our industry, Coach & Bus Live is set to make its fourth appearance at Birmingham’s NEC next October. This comprehensive trade show will once again attract over two hundred of the industry’s leading manufacturers and suppliers, transforming the NEC into the UK’s number one forum for the coach and bus community. Coach & Bus Live 2011 provides exhibitors with the opportunity to meet and do business with many thousands of senior decision makers from a range of operator, supplier and local authority organisations. Representing some of the UK and Ireland’s most prestigious operating groups many with ﬂeets in excess of 100 vehicles, visitors will come to the show keen to ﬁnd out about the latest products, services and technologies. There is simply no better place than Coach & Bus Live 2011 to do business.

Featuring

Bringing you tomorrow’s world today

To avoid disappointment and make certain you get the stand location of your choice, please contact our Sales Manager, Julie Hartley. Tel: +44 (0)1926 834783 Fax: +44(0)1926 888004 Email: info@coachandbuslive.com Or visit our website:

www.coachandbuslive.com

Organised by

Supported by

COVER

New Mercedes-Benz Citaro

“The Superstar just got better”

ith sales in excess of 30,000 units since its launch in 1997 the Mercedes-Benz Citaro is arguably the best selling commercial passenger transport vehicle in history. Designed for urban and inter-urban traffic, Citaro has found favour across the World with both private and municipal transport operators. Fleet Bus & Coach - attended the unveiling of the new Citaro at Daimler’s Mannheim plant to see how the bus is evolving and to find out how Daimler AG views the future of the passenger sector. It is easy to get carried away by the fanfare and hype which surround any new vehicle launch. Nevertheless the assembled hierarchy of Daimler Bus presented a solid confident façade born from a deep belief in their new product. Andreas Renschler, (Member of the board of Daimler AG, with responsibility for Daimler Truck and Daimler Bus) was the key note speaker for the unveiling. Herr Renschler opened his address by claiming Mannheim to be the birthplace of regular passenger services, because in 1895 Carl Benz began a service covering a 15 kilometre route near the city. He continued by highlighting the benefits passenger transport provides, citing figures which

demonstrate that the bus is the safest, most flexible and most environmentally friendly available. Acknowledging the mistakes which arose with the early Citaro back in 1997 Andreas Renscheler, stated the problems are long since solved and that now the “Superstar has been made even better”. Andreas also notes that following “two really good years in 2008 and 2010 we are currently in a difficult market”. However, the future for the passenger transport sector looks very promising. He quotes research statistics, which point to areas of potential growth for city and intercity traffic. Noting that “more and more people are moving to urban centres and that within 20 years around 60 percent of the global population will live in towns and cities”. Once the covers were pulled back and the rotating spotlights stopped spinning, the Citaro was revealed, which at first glance did not look a great deal changed from its predecessor. Nonetheless it’s often said, the devil is in the detail and such is the case with the new Citaro. It must be accepted that it could never be revolutionary. Citaro is a purpose built high capacity urban transporter, and as such there is little scope for dramatic new styling. Though that being said, improvements to vehicle aesthetics’ were not disregarded; Citaro presents a friendly profile, which will appear subtly welcoming to the tired commuter. Furthermore, it is the subtle changes throughout the latest version that will help to ensure Citaro’s popularity, even though it is highly probable that few of the intending passengers will consciously notice any of the improvements as the new version pulls into the bus stop. New flared wheel arches and lowered windows may indicate that something is different with another clue being the large bi-xenon headlights. Most of the changes and improvements are derived from a practical operational sense. In addition to some slight re-sculpting of the rear engine cover the most noticeable revamp on the

32 FLEETBUS&COACH | Summer 2011

exterior of the Citaro is the front entrance door, now wider and electrically operated. Once inside the improvements are understated and while many passengers may not notice the changes they will very possibly sense that something is different. The slight flaring of the centre aisle upright hand rails away from the central walkway generates a welcome sense of space. Few would notice the redesigned ‘stop’ button that resists vandalism and was an issue for certain operators. More thought has been invested in the driver’s workspace. Again the modifications were prompted by customer recommendations. The driver's cockpit has been raised by 60 mm which improves forward visibility. The idea was primarily in response to drivers feeling vulnerable when seated below the level of passengers. It may be a small issue but nonetheless important when most of the working day is spent dealing with customers in this manner. The question of driver safety has taken on greater significance; drivers are threatened more frequently by abusive passengers. As well as offering several different levels of security measures, MercedesBenz has re-designed access to and from the cockpit, allowing the driver to create an escape route by holding passenger/s behind the security door which then provides them with enough time to get away if the situation demands. Provision for additional dash-mounted equipment has been made on all models and caters for individual wiring and mounting adaptors, which can be factory fitted to meet customer specific requirements. Future proofi ng the Citaro was an important consideration at the design stage, and impending regulations such as ECE R66/01 relating to passenger vehicle rollover were taken into account and Citaro now meets the criteria. Richard Averbeck was also pleased to announce that the Citaro is the first urban passenger vehicle to have ‘Electronic

COVER To get a new Citaro 2013/4 may seem a long way off. Nevertheless as the life expectancy of city bus ranges from ten to fi fteen years, and with the sometimes drawn out tendering and purchasing procedures which control Local Authorities in real terms it’s not too far away. However such a delay for private operators may prove a little too long. Stability Programme’ fitted as standard. Something which may not be absolutely necessary on a city bus, but it is nice to have all the same. Front end ‘collision impact protection’ and strengthened ‘A’ pillars have been added to comply with the future ECE R29 standard. For the moment drivetrains will remain as currently available, with new options being introduced in stages as and when demand arises. Citaro’s body-shell has been configured to accommodate the changeover to Euro 6, though these will not appear before 2014, and Daimler does not foresee any reason to advance that date. Following the main presentation, Fleet Bus & Coach spoke to Michael Gopfarth (pictured left), Head of Global Sales Daimler Bus, concerning availability and options for right hand drive versions. It appears the intention is to continue as planned for the moment. The ‘New Citaro’ will be available with full options in RHD and with Euro 6, though this will not happen until 2013/4. However he interestingly assures us that the New Citaro with a Euro 6 compliant engine will produce a reduction in fuel consumption.

Text & Photos: Paul White – paul@fleet.ie

Our first impressions of the New Citaro are overall positive. Within the permissible dimensions allowed, and taking account of the intended area of operation, the new Citaro could never be a radical revolution in automotive design. Though the small enhancements, of which there are many, will no doubt improve the urban transport experience for driver and passenger alike. For the operator Citaro has power options from 286 hp (210 kW) to 354 hp (260 kW). All engines meet Euro 5 criteria as standard, with an alternative EEV variant available. A choice of fully automatic torque convertor transmissions is offered from either Voith or ZF, and final drive ratios can be specified as operational demands dictate. Both transmission and rear axle service intervals have been extended by 60,000 - out to 180,000 kms. It is easy to see why the Daimler hierarchy believe it has a winner on its hands. The improvements may not be dramatic, but they are an important next step in the continuing evolution of Citaro. For Mercedes-Benz, Citaro has been a success story - which looks set to continue.

Summary ESP as standard Meets ECE R66/01 Rollover Regulations Softer front profi le Front Impact Protection to ECE R29 Standard Drivers cockpit raised by 60 mm Enhanced colour display for driver Improved driver security measures Wider entrance door Improved ventilation and heating control Flared wheel arches Interior LED lighting Daytime running lights RHD not available until end of 2013 start 2014 RHD will only be available with Euro 6

FLEETBUS&COACH | Summer 2011 33

INNOVATION

GROENEVELD – Transport Efficiency all in one!

o use the popular travel song ‘The Wheels on the Bus Go Round and Round’ in a way describes what the Groeneveld Group is all about, as wheels and every other moving component in a vehicle keep going ‘all day long’, everyday thanks to the Dutch company’s products and services. 2011 marks the 40th anniversary of the Gorinchem based firm that specialises in automatic lubricating and safety systems plus IT solutions for the transport and logistics world. Many of the top manufacturers in road, rail and passenger transport, construction and agricultural equipment, materials handling and aviation are among its OEM customers but its main markets are in after-sales. Although automatic lubrication systems still forms a substantial part of its turnover (around 60%) the other elements of the business is ready for further growth on a global scale and the Board of Management, led by Mr. Henk Groeneveld, Groeneveld Group’s President & CEO, has been expanded with a number of experienced personnel from sectors of the various industries that are now covered by the broad Groeneveld portfolio. Currently the Group operates worldwide with more than 500 employees and 30 company sites in 22 countries. Turnover peaked at €100m in 2007 and 2008, with profits of €10 and €6m recorded respectively. With the expansion plans in mind those figures are projected to double in the years ahead. Having come out of the global recession intact, Mr. Groeneveld is banking on strong global growth to achieve the Group’s objective. “We have had two difficult years behind us even though we managed to stay out of the red. However, we are turning a new page and starting a new chapter that will be characterised by a healthy global growth. We still have many opportunities since, globally, there are so many lubricating points that are being lubricated manually. Th is can and must be done more efficiently and especially if we consider that further increasing labour costs. We have excellent products and a cast-iron organisation for this.” The development of new markets and a further increase in deliveries to OEMs form the main part of the company’s growth plans. Target markets include Germany, the UK, the USA and China. “We have not attained the position by far that we deserve based on the quality of our products,” stated Henk. He spoke highly of his independent distributor in Ireland, Hi-Power, which has built 34 FLEETBUS&COACH | Summer 2011

up a solid relationship with the brand over three decades. “We have a unique product with our Twin 3 heavy-duty two pipe lubricating system that is being offered by more and more well-known producers of earth-moving plant and construction equipments as the initial installation ex-factory based on excellent product features. We, therefore, foresee not only an increase in sales for integration afterwards, what is commonly referred to as the after-market, but especially to OEMs for initial installation for the coming years.” A renewed focus on supply of products and services to Defence Force vehicles was also mentioned as part of his company’s growth plans. “A correctly operating and reliable automatic lubricating system, after all, increases the service life of bearings, pins and bushings considerably. This equates to lower repair and maintenance costs while it also positively contributes towards the operational reliability and residual value of the machine or vehicle,” he added. On 1 May 1971, Henk’s brother Aart began business in this field by importing an American automatic lubricating system. A range of products soon followed to include wind deflectors, radiator shutters, air dryers, vehicle heaters, air-conditions and speed-limiting devices. As the product line-up increased, the focus was primarily to provide added value to the customer – more comfort for the driver, more safety, less maintenance, higher efficiency and lower costs per kilometre. That philosophy continues to this day and beyond. While the selection of automatic greasing systems has evolved and broadened over the decades alongside the vehicle types they serve, the spotlight is now also on the other innovative products developed and already proven in the global marketplace. Take for instance, its Oilmaster Oil Management System, which is offered ex-factory by a large number of leading bus producers such as all 4,000 buses of KMB, the public transport operator in Hong Kong. The Groeneveld Group has built up an excellent reputation as a supplier of advanced IT solutions for the transport world ranging from on-board (OB) computers up to and including Transport Management and Terminal Operator Systems with its GreenCat IT division. GreenCat offers OneStop-Shopping for all IT solutions for transport companies and logistics service providers. The company is a reliable IT partner for more than 500 customers including many well-known national and International transport operators. All soft ware is developed in-house following the acquisition of specialist firms in this area of high-tech telematics. More than 40,000 on-board computers have been installed to date and a new generation of OB units based on open-technology is presently under development. Over the years Research

& Development Centres have been set up in the Netherlands, Israel and Italy. In its homeland, the emphasis is on electronics engineering and GreenCat development. In Italy, all hardware is developed and produced ranging from OB units, Greensight monitors and cameras to Oilmasters, speed-limiting devices and auto lubes system. Set up 25 years ago, the Italian plant located in the Cassago region has a fully automated production and assembly facility. Groeneveld’s products are used all over the world. Efficiency and availability of truck, bus, construction and earth moving machinery, train and agricultural equipment uptime are, after all, important everywhere. The challenges are the same wherever you go in the world. How do you get the highest efficiency from your equipment? How do you prevent unplanned downtime and how do you reduce maintenance costs and increase reliability and efficiency simultaneously? Groeneveld’s products offer the answer to these questions. From the compact CompAlube or XS for a limited number of lubricating points to the unique heavy-duty Twin 3 system for extensive systems and applications under heavy-duty conditions such as found in construction machines, Groeneveld offers the

Mr. Henk Groeneveld, Groeneveld Group’s President & CEO

INNOVATION

The Groeneveld Group’s product range extends to 2,500 different products and kits.

correct automatic lubricating system for every application. And thanks to the availability of on-board telematics through its sister GreenCat brand, the level of feedback to the operator and driver puts the company ahead of its rivals. For the best possible lubrication, the automatic lubricating system must, however, be correctly synchronised with the application. A standard 6x4 American truck with about 35 lubricating points requires a different lubricating systems than a European 4x2 tractor with only a few (5-6) lubricating points on the front axle, cab suspension and fi fth-wheel coupling. A heavy wheel loader or hydraulic excavator requires another lubricating system than a compact excavator. To ensure that the correct lubricating system can be offered for each application, the Groeneveld product range has a great variety in lubricating systems. Moreover, every system is calculated and documented with regard to its specific application by experienced sales engineers. SingleLine and TriPlus for more extensive lubrication systems are also available to suit commercial vehicles and passenger transport vehicles. Groeneveld’s OnePlus has been specially developed for transport vehicles, small/medium sized off-road machines and industrial applications, forklifts and sweepers. Then there’s Twin 3 described by Henk as “the Rolls Royce among lubricating systems”. Developed in reaction to customers’ needs, ‘Twin’ is a unique heavy-duty two-pipe lubricating system for large machines working under extreme conditions. It works under relatively low pressure and therefore, the quality and structure of the lubricant is retained. Accurate measurement is assured for each lubricant point at all times under all conditions. Oilmaster is Groeneveld’s advanced oil management system and makes sure that the motor oil is always at exactly the right level: not too low, which may lead to expensive damage of the engine, but certainly not too high either, which may result in excessive oil consumption and damage to the exhaust aftertreatment system. The need to check oil levels is eliminated. Text: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie

Under the GreenSight name, Groeneveld is marketing a unique active safety system, which basically is an ultrasonic, acoustic detection system that can be extended with a camera system developed in-house with a colour monitor. GreenSight provides accurate and reliable information to drivers or operators about the space available behind or around the vehicle or machine. GreenCat, the Group’s Information Technology division continues to be innovative. Last year a webbased online customer service portal Cat4web was introduced, and a web-based driver performance software, offering reporting functionality to enable a complete view into the performance of vehicle and driver. Soon to come is Greentrack RF Trailer Identification and Temperature Monitoring Cat4suite now available in four specialised versions: Container Transport, Liquid & Bulk, Groupage & Distribution and Containerterminal. The different versions are equipped with standard add-on models, such as on-board computer integration, maintenance module, fleet management, route planning CatMap, planboard and automatic billing. Besides the availability of specialised business versions, Cat4Suite distinguishes itself in the integration and support of fully integrated multimodal transport to optimise shipments in terms of cost and sustainability that can be carried out by road, rail and water.

Mr. Groeneveld was speaking to invited press at the Group’s newly created Groeneveld Experience Centre at its headquarters in Gorinchem near Rotterdam, which is a semi-permanent in-house exhibition area where customers and other interested parties get to know products, the organisation and the people behind the products. In conclusion he said, “Celebrating the 40 th anniversary, the Groeneveld Experience Centre was established at the head office in Gorinchem, where customers, dealers, importers, manufacturers and other relations can become acquainted with the products and services of Groeneveld in a pleasant ambiance.”

The new HT GreenCat HomeBase soft ware is a flexible platform that can be used to automate the information flow of logistic service providers. Recently developed GreenCat driver performance module provides an answer to the request of many transport companies, for example, obtaining a good insight in the fuel consumption of the vehicle and above all in the driver’s driving style. Based on this information, the driver can be approached about his driving behaviour and trained if necessary. This is important in connection with the increasingly stronger pressure to reduce CO2 emissions. In addition, practice has demonstrated that drivers with a high fuel consumption usually also have higher wear and tear to e.g. tyres, gears and brakes of the vehicle.

Ron den Engelsen, one of the newly appointed members of the Groeneveld Group Board of Management responsible for Marketing & Sales and Business Development. Mr. den Engelsen spent many years as the Head of Corporate Communications at DAF Trucks. FLEETBUS&COACH | Summer 2011

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FLEETING SHOTS

Dermot Cronin steps down

any of the leading figures in the Tourism Industry in Ireland gathered to celebrate the life and achievements of one of the great industry personalities, Dermot Cronin, founder of Cronin’s of Cork. After 55 years of paving the way in the tourism industry, Dermot officially retired at the end of May. To mark the occasion the Directors of Cronin’s held a celebratory luncheon in Vertigo on the 17th floor of Cork County Hall. From humble beginnings in 1957, together with his late wife Joan, Dermot started his original Taxi and Bus Hire business in Cork. From these humble beginnings sprang Cronin’s of Cork, which today has 50 Touring Coaches, 2 Coach Depots, a Destination Management company with International offices, a Coach Sales Service Company and a Hotel marketing group.

Master of Ceremonies for the occasion was John Brennan, well-known hotelier and host of RTE’s ‘At Your Service’. John, together with his brother Francis has strong ties with Dermot, going back decades. John spoke of Dermot’s immense contribution to the Tourism Industry. “Dermot has been one of the most progressive and adaptable entrepreneurs this

industry has ever seen – a man with great integrity, loyalty and an ethos of hard work and quality, a man very much ahead of his time. His philosophy has always been that we must all work together in the industry to survive and thrive. One example of this would be his involvement with Skål International, an organisation representing the Travel and Tourism Industry around the World. Dermot’s lifelong commitment to groups such as this, have insured that Ireland has a very strong voice on the International tourism stage today.” The new Board of Cronin’s of Cork will also include Niall Cronin, Transport Sales and Service Director, Margaret Cronin, Sales Director (who is also current President of Skål International Ireland) and Anne Cronin, who is the newly appointed Operations Director.

DAF Bus celebrates 80th Anniversary

he annual DAF Bus Museum-days will have a special significance this year as the Dutch brand celebrates 80 years of bus history. Due to the Busworld Show to be held in Courtrai, Belgium in November, the date of the DAF Museum event in Eindhoven has moved to 1 and 2 October 2011. What’s planned is, “a fantastic gathering and exposition of DAF Classic Buses at the factory premises of DAF,” according to Geert Straetmans, who is part of the organising team. “More than 40 International buses have confi rmed their attendance. To facilitate the transport of the public between DAF Works and the DAF Museum, which is about 2.5 km, a number of historic DAF Buses will be ‘employed’ again in a regular shutt le,” he added. More details on www.fleet.ie

Eurolines Services Batts with Irish Ferries

dditional Cross-Channel services are now on the schedule following Bus Éireann’s appointment of Irish Ferries as carrier for its daily Eurolines Dublin – London and Dublin - Leeds coach schedules. Currently, two coaches operate each evening from Dublin’s Busarus, travelling via Holyhead to Leeds and London, the latter including stops in Manchester and Birmingham. Two additional daily departures to Leeds and London will be introduced shortly to cater for extra Summer volumes. A daily Cork – London Eurolines service also operates on Irish Ferries Rosslare – Pembroke route. Last year, the numbers carried on Eurolines services grew by ten percent reflecting the growing popularity of coach travel.

POLITECNICA ITALY

Poised for the ‘catch’ from Irish cricket star Kevin O’Brien - who notched up the fastest century ever recorded in Cricket World Cup history - is Irish Ferries Capt. Kieran Conroy and Marie McCarthy with Bus Éireann’s Rory Leahy. Text: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie

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FLEETBUS&COACH | Summer 2011

OPINION

Interesting revelations from CTTC Report

Back Seat Driver by Sean Murtagh

ost of us will remember the month of May 2011 for ever. Queen Elizabeth II was the last British monarch to visit our shores since the foundation of the State. Before our royal visitors left, the death of Dr. Garret Fitzgerald saddened the Nation. He had a unique talent of using statistics to diagnose the Nation’s economic problems and with a quick shuffle used the same figures to prescribe the cure. Then we had US President Barack Obama departing in a blaze of glory after a very powerful 24-hour visit. However, one of the most significant events of the month went relatively unnoticed, but like a smouldering keg it could be a turning point for passenger transport and in particular private bus and coach operators. Last November the CTTC (Coach Tourism and Transport Council) commissioned to look at the financing data on the operations of Bus Eireann and Dublin Bus and to do some analysis on it. All of the information in the Report was taken from the audited accounts of both companies from the years 2005 – 2009. Since the inception of the CTTC, the members have always lobbied to be part of the public transport system and more importantly qualify for any funding that the semi-State companies received. In the past the private coach operators have continuously been let down by the Government of the day. Not that any of these Governments could not see merit in including the private sector in the public transport system, more than anything it was about votes and politicians getting re-elected. Up to now it would have taken a brave Transport Minister to tackle the dynasty that semi-State operators had become. Things are now different, our Country is on its knees and any place the Government, and in particular the Department of Finance can make savings, they will. So, back to the CTTC Report, what are the main points? One of the most alarming findings is that passenger numbers are falling. Remember the period in question was 2005 to 2009. So any effect from the downturn in the economy is not reflected in these figures, so this trend has likely become worse. During the same period costs were increasing at a rate of 5% per year. In fact operating costs were increasing by 36% in Dublin Bus, while at the same time revenues increased by only 25%. When the costs are analysed it is clear that wages are the single biggest contribution to the higher costs. One other piece of information contained in the Report is that of 73 cities in the world, Dublin 38 FLEETBUS&COACH | Summer 2011

bus drivers are the fourth highest paid. From a taxpayers point of view it is very worrying that the contribution paid to both companies over the time almost doubled. Bus Eireann received €25 million of a sub-vention in 2005 and by 2009 that figure had increased to €49 million. In the case of Dublin Bus the figures were €60 million in 2005 and €83 million in 2009. Over the period both companies received €563 million from the State. The CTTC has made some recommendations on the back of this Report. Most of these recommendations have been suggested before so nothing new here, but the background has changed and the present Government seems to be determined to give value for the taxpayer. Of the four recommendations the CTTC make, one may be contentious. A proposal that Bus Eireann should withdraw from any inner-City route that is loss making would create difficulties for whoever would have to arbitrate on what constituted a loss making service. The CTTCs other recommendations are:• • •

Private operators be allowed to tender on all sub-vented routes Private operators be allowed access to publicity funded bus stations Review of the School Transport Scheme in terms of how it is managed and operated

What will the State companies response be to this report? In the past they have said that the way the private sector interprets their financial results has been a subjective exercise and not a true reflection of the situation on the ground. This may be true but the numbers in the report are big and so are the potential savings to the taxpayer, they cannot be ignored. People standing at Bus Stops waiting for the next bus to come wear two hats. In the first instance they are customers and in the second instance they are taxpayers. They both deserve value for money and it is now up to the Government to give them that value. Let us hope this Report will kick-start that process. Some weeks ago a letter writer to one of the national newspapers suggested an ingenious way to create jobs - bring back bus conductors. I hope this was a comment made as a nostalgic memory from the glory days of the past. If it was a serious suggestion then it is typical of some of the ill-informed comments that sometimes become policy and what has impeded and kept transport by bus and coach well behind our European neighbours. Private operators have been in the traps a long time now waiting to bring competition and savings for passenger and taxpayers.

Text: Sean Murtagh – sean@fleet.ie

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