Fleet Bus and Coach Summer 2009 by Orla Sweeney

OFFICIAL IRISH JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL BUS/COACH AWARDS

Volume 6. No. 2. Summer 2009

INSIDE

Super Luxury • ANNOUNCING: FLEET BUS & COACH AWARDS 2010

• FEATURE: DRIVER CPC

• PREVIEW: UITP WORLD CONGRESS VIENNA 2009

contents Summer 2009

NEWS • Fleet Bus & Coach Awards 2010 sponsored by MAN Truck & Bus • Progress of Western Rail Corridor • Carlyle Bus & Coach provide Eurocoach parts • LDV/Maxus saved by the Asians • FAST Europe enters RHD markets • EC Whole Vehicle Type Approval kicks-in • Go tour Limerick City • Obituary: Bill O’Mahony • Plus Bus Lane – short snips

PREVIEW 58th UITP World Congress, Vienna

INNOVATION Three Mercedes-Benz Citaro converted to mobile clinics

FEATURE Driver CPC is here and now!

COVER First appraisal of the new Plaxton Elite

AWARDS Introducing the Fleet Bus & Coach Awards Programme 2010 in association with MAN Truck & Bus

FLEETING SHOTS • Volvo Ocean Race livery on GoBus • Solaris milestone • Busworld Asia • Plus New Fleet deals done by CIE Tours & Richmond Coaches

OPINION Back Seat Driver plus Bus Lanes II

P 20 Fleet Transport Magazine D’Alton Street, Claremorris, Co. Mayo, Ireland. Tel: +353 (0)94 9372819/ 9372826 Fax: +353 (0)94 9373571 Email: enquiries@fleet.ie ISDN: +353 (0)94 938 8242 ISSN: 1649-9433 Managing Editor: Jarlath Sweeney

Fleet Bus & Coach - the official Irish journal of the International Bus/Coach of the Year Awards.

Editor: Sean Murtagh Contributors: Gerry Murphy. Photography: Jarlath Sweeney, Sean Murtagh. Administration: Orla Sweeney, Denise Vahey, Helen Maguire. Advertising: Mary Morrissey, Orla Sweeney. Design: Eamon Wynne. Cover pic: Sean Murtagh. Location: Phoenix Park, Dublin.

www.fleet.ie

Fleet Transport/ Fleet Car/ Fleet Van & Utility/ Fleet Bus & Coach/ Fleet Trailer & Body Builder/ Fleet Maritime are published by JJDS Publications Ltd. Registered Office: D’Alton Street, Claremorris, Co. Mayo. Co. Reg. 368767 Directors: Jarlath Sweeney, Sean Murtagh.

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 9373571

FB&C06.09

Disclaimer: Fleet Transport Magazine management can accept no responsibility for the accuracy of contributed articles or statements appearing in this magazine and any views or opinions expressed are not necessarily those of Fleet Transport management, save where otherwise indicated. No responsibility for loss or distress occasioned to any person acting or refraining from acting as a result of the material in this publication can be accepted by the authors, contributors, Editors or publishers. The Editor reserves the right to make publishing decisions on any advertisements or editorial article submitted to the magazine and to refuse publication or to edit any editorial material as seems appropriate to him. Professional legal advice should always be sought in relation to any specific matter.

FLEETBUS&COACH | Summer 2009 3

NEWS 1

BUS LANE CTTC Appoints new Chief Executive The Coach Tourism a n d Tr a n s p o r t Council (CTTC) has appointed Gerry Mullins as its new Chief Executive, taking over from Cora Collins who stepped down earlier this year. Mullins, whose background is in journalism, was a prominent travel writer. Speaking upon his appointment, Mullins said: “It is a great honour to be appointed as the CTTC’s Chief Executive. It will be a challenging role, but also a very interesting one.” Gerry Mullins encourages all members, and potential members, to contact him with queries and concerns at gerry@cttc.ie

Optare to Restructure? Lack of demand for double deck buses has led to the Optare Group entering a 90 day consultation process at its Blackburn plant. Despite a buoyant start to 2009, reduced orders for Quarter 3 and Quarter 4 2009 could see the Group reducing employee numbers at Blackburn by up to 50%.

Although there is no serious reduction in demand for bus travel, an element of caution has been evident with Wrightbus and Alexander Dennis announcing redundancy programmes in recent months.

MAN to deliver 108 bus chassis to EMT Madrid EMT, the Madrid Transport Authority has ordered 108 MAN 12-metre low-floor bus chassis to be delivered in 2010 and 2011. Says Eduardo Sotillo, General Manager of MAN España, “The 84 bus chassis with the modern MAN E28 CNG (320hp) gas engines especially underline the position of MAN as European market leader in this segment of extremely environmentally friendly vehicles. The engines fulfi l the voluntary emission standard EEV (Enhanced Environmentally friendly Vehicle) and also the latest OBD2 standards for engine management. 4 FLEETBUS&COACH | Summer 2009

Fleet Bus & Coach Awards 2010

reland’s first and foremost passenger transport magazine Fleet Bus & Coach is about to honour Bus and Coach operators at its bi-ennial Fleet Bus & Coach Awards 2010. In association with title sponsors MAN Truck & Bus, the Awards Presentation event will take place on Tuesday 6th October 2009 at 11.00 am at the Marriott Johnstown House Hotel, Enfield, County Meath. For the 2010 Awards programme, a number of new categories have been added such as 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.

increase operator’s efficiency and profitability. 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.

Prior to the Awards Presentation and Lunch, MAN Truck & Bus is hosting an Information Seminar featuring its latest products that will

Callinan Coaches (Galway) 2008 Winner Inter-City Coach Operator of the Year. Pictured are Noel Brett , CEO RSA; Tommy Callinan & Jarlath Sweeney, Managing Editor, Fleet Bus & Coach.

Progress of Western Rail Corridor rests on success of Ennis – Athenry Phase

n endorsing the Government’s commitment to the re-opening of the Western Rail Corridor, the Minister for Transport, Mr. Noel Dempsey T.D., said at a West on Track Rail Conference that funding for Phases 2 and 3 of the project is subject to the patronage of Phase 1 – the newly established Ennis to Athenry Line. The one-day Conference held at the McWilliam Park Hotel, Claremorris in association with the Western Development Commission announced that the new service from Ennis to Athenry would be operational by September with new stations opening at Sixmilebridge, Gort, Ardrahan and Craughwell. According to the Minister, the viability of restoring the rail-line is in the hands of its users. “In September 2006 we in Government made a decision in principle to support funding for the development of Phase 2 of the Corridor between Athenry and Tuam. Th is approval is subject to completion by Iarnród Éireann of a fuller appraisal of this section. Iarnród Éireann is planning to conduct further studies in 2009 to ascertain more reliable costings for Phases 2 and 3. I understand that they will also be looking at usage of Phase 1 after its opening, and at its effect on overall patronage of public transport in the area. The timescales for the delivery of Phases 2 and 3 are under review in the light of the capital allocation available to the Department of Transport.” In offering his support

he said, “I, like you, am looking forward to seeing the impact of Phase 1 of the corridor when it opens. One of the top priorities of my Department is to encourage people to switch from private cars to public transport. I know that I can count on your support and efforts in the implementation of complementary, sustainable (that is, non-car based) housing and other development in the region, in support of the investment which is being made in the rail corridor.”

Att endees at the West-on-Track Rail Conference L/R Frank Dawson; County Manager, Roscommon County Council, Colman Ó’Raghallaigh; West-on-Track, Caitriona Ruane; Minister for Education, Northern Ireland Assembly, Johann Freidrich Colsman; Rail Transport Cabinet Member EU Transport Commissioner, Lisa McAllister; CEO, Western Development Commission (WDC), Martin Cunniffe; West-onTrack & Helen Rochford Brennan; WDC & West-on-Track

NEWS 11

Carlyle Bus & Coach to provide parts for defunct Eurocoach brand products

eading PSV parts and accessory provider Carlyle Bus & Coach which recently set up an Irish base in Dublin is to provide customers of Eurocoach brand models with full spare parts availability. The recent closure of Eurocoach Builders in Gweedore, was a severe blow to the West Donegal area. Over 70 jobs were lost in the Gaeltacht region. According to Steve Dunn, Marketing Director, Carlyle Bus & Coach (Ireland), Eurocoach vehicle owners and operators can be assured access to all parts for their products. “We are stocking all parts and have recently acquired some mouldings that will enable us to accommodate all enquiries.”

the future. In association with leading Spanish coachbuilders various midi-bus products based on the Mercedes-Benz light commercial vehicle range including School Buses were produced. Funding for this expansion was generated through Údarás na Gaeltachta and Enterprise Ireland. More recently an alliance was signed with East Lancashire Coachbuilders in the UK with a view to producing a low-floor commuter bus. When East Lancashire went into administration and subsequently taken over by the Darwen Group, this partnership ceased and

rocked the Eurocoach ship somewhat, and the company soon went into Examinership. With the financial support of local hotelier and building contractor, Patrick Docherty the fresh injection of funds saw the creation of the new Arora 200 Midibus. The downturn in European markets and the fluctuation of the sterling exchange did no favours for the restructured company and a significant number of newly made buses remained unsold. With debts mounting up the Board of Directors decided to call it a day.

Founded in 1988 by Joe Ferry, Eurocoach Builders began converting light commercials into minibuses. In the ‘90s a large contract to provide 100 City Imp Midi-buses (based on the Mercedes-Benz Vario model) to Dublin Bus and Bus Eireann put the Bunbeg company on firm footing for

LDV saved from extinction

ollowing protracted negotiations with the UK Government and other sources, Evgeniy Vereshchagin, CEO, LDV Group Limited, and his fellow Directors had decided to put the company in administration. Out of the blue came Malaysian Vehicle Importer, Weststar, to rescue the beleaguered brand which history dates back to the days of British Leyland. In a letter to the 800 employees based at its Birmingham factory, Mr. Vereshchagin outlined the bad news in that only senior management will be required to report for work at Washwood Heath, as the company is unable to confirm any further payments. Staff had been paid up to the end of week 17 (April 24). In an effort to support the deal, the British Government agreed to provide a £5m bridging loan to the Weststar which

assembles LDV Maxus vans for Asian and Middle East markets. Funding was required not only for the survival of the company but also for the further development of the Maxus range of light commercials from vans, pick-ups and passenger vehicles to minibuses (including school buses) to spec ia l applications such as mobile Post Offices. Later this year LDV planned to begin production of electric powertrains following their successful launch at the

CV Show at the NEC in 2008. Previous owners, the GAZ Group (Russia) wrote off its interest in the ailing UK company. Subsequently, a management buyout led by GAZ Chairman, Erik Eberhardson failed.

FLEETBUS&COACH | Summer 2009 5

NEWS 111

FAST Europe enters Irish & UK Markets

About FAST

Fast Concept Car is 100% owned by the F.A.S.T. Group, which itself is fully controlled by the Ringeard family. At present, F.A.S.T. is the fourth ranking passenger transport company in France operating a fleet of over 1,500 vehicles. In addition, the Group owns 15 travel agencies in France. It is also a distributor of spare parts for coaches (under the Laporte name), and buyer and reseller of second-hand vehicles plus the exclusive distributor of Otokar midibuses in France and Benelux.

ollowing keen interest expressed by RHD markets French Bus manufacturer and distributor FAST has commenced sales in Ireland and Great Britain. Following its appointment of the OHM Group as its Irish agents, a co-operation agreement has recently been signed with Esker Bus & Coach UK. Both parties will offer FAST’s range of affordable, cost-effective, profitable and high quality vehicles for the school and Inter-City bus sectors.

Initially, FAST Europe was planning the introduction of a full subsidiary in the UK. However, due to the specific nature of the UK bus and coach market, the advantages and experience of Irish owned Esker Bus & Coach, the many similarities

between the two companies and the current market situation, a broad co-operation proved to be the best opportunity by far. First introduced to the public during the 2008 Euro Expo exhibition in Birmingham, the FAST STARTER is to lead the way for the new entry into the Irish and UK markets. The right hand drive conversion awarded with very positive comments by leading trade magazines after extensive road tests. The first new Starter RHD has been delivered to Esker Bus & Coach for demonstration purposes and is up for a personal introduction at its impressive new facilities in Worksop. The FAST STARTER RHD accommodates up to 74 seats.

In view of the success in France and the growing demand for Fast brand vehicles, a decision was made to establish Fast Europe SA, headquartered in Belgium, and initially concentrating on the sale of Fast and Otokar vehicles in the Benelux market. From 2007, its expansion plans to further spread across Europe came to fruition with the creation of a European support service and after-sales network for all of its supplied products.

M1 Passenger Vehicles come under Vehicle Type Approval

SAI (National Standards Authority of Ireland) is the approval authority in Ireland for the European Community Whole Vehicle Type Approval (ECWVTA) Directive 2007/46/EU. As and from 29th April, all new M1 category (8+1 seat passenger) vehicles must have Type Approval before they can be registered in Ireland. A vehicle may have either EU Whole Vehicle Type Approval or National Approval for Individual Vehicles (IVA) or vehicles produced in small series (NSSTA).

The scope of these requirements will extend to cover almost all road vehicles over the next five years. It is aimed that Type Approval System will help to remove barriers to the sale of road vehicles between Member States of the EU while ensuring vehicles meet common safety and environmental requirements. To deliver the national approval schemes, the NSAI has established a network of Appointed Test Centres (NTC) to undertake testing for

Limerick City from the Upper Deck

ike McElligott , Managing Director of C&M Coaches in Limerick says that its new Limerick ‘Open Top’ City Tour is att racting a lot of interest from visitors to the City. Using a Volvo based Alexander powered by a Cummins engine and Voith transmission seven services leave f rom Merc h a nt s Quay each day to go on tour. Limerick has plenty of att ractions for people visiting the City but regular driver Frank O’ R ioada ad m its that one of the fi rst questions he is often asked is ‘Will we pass Thomond Park?’ 6 FLEETBUS&COACH | Summer 2009

these vehicle approvals.

Further details on www.nsai.ie

Bill O’Mahony (1955 – 2009)

ill O’Mahony from Tralee died at the age of 54 at the end of March after a long illness. When scholars come to write about the history of the Irish Bus and Coach Industry and in particular the competition between State and Private Operators you can be sure Bill O’Mahony’s name will feature. Although he came from a business background it was somewhat different from the path he chose. Son of well known grocers Rita and Tom, Bill worked in his early years with Slattery’s Travel & Coach Hire. Having played a pivotal role in the development of Slatterys and their UK service, Bill set about developing his own service daily between Dublin and Tralee. Bringing him into direct conflict with the State Operator, O’Mahony’s Service brought value to the travelling public. A champion for consumers his next venture was into the Taxi business where again he brought competition to a sector and reduced charges for the travelling public. Bill died leaving a legacy similar to that of budget airline founder Sir Freddy Laker. He started the ball rolling in terms of competition with the State, unfortunately he did not fully reap the rewards. Present day operators should not forget the efforts that Bill O’Mahony and others made for them by breaking the mould. A true family man, Bill was always content to relax on the beaches in Kerry. Survived by his wife Geraldine, daughters Emma and Grainne and sons Thomas and Eoin, Bill O’Mahony was an entrepreneur and visionary in the Bus and Coach Industry. May he Rest in Peace.

FLEETBUS&COACH | Summer 2009 7

PREVIEW

58th UITP World Congress and Mobility & City Transport Exhibition, 7-11 June – Vienna, Austria

s the economic climate continues to raise issues for society in general across the globe, the future of mobility or public transport sector is brought to question. Will the current financial crisis affect projects? How will they be financed? What about the long-term strategy? “In recent years, the big question for city planners has therefore shifted from whether to invest in public transport, to which public transport mode is more appropriate,” says Hans Rat, UITP Secretary General. “Th is is a very complex investment choice. In some cases infrastructure and equipment must be installed from scratch; in others the decision must be taken to renew, extend, change or compliment the existing range of mobility services,” he added. “Making the right choice of transport system for a city has never been more vital or more complex. There is no ‘one size fits all’ strategy

or decision-making process. What our Congress will do however is to help stakeholders make informed and appropriate mobility choices,” he concluded. The 58th UITP World Congress & Exhibition, which takes place from 7-11 June in Vienna, aims to examine all these issues and more. The focal theme of the event ‘Public Transport: Making the right mobility choices’ will also debate climate change, congestion, air quality and energy concerns. These topics will all be covered during the four day event with up to nine talks/sessions arranged for Tuesday and Wednesday 9/10 June. “The UITP World Congress enables visitors to get to the pulse of the profession in the only worldwide event by the sector for the decision-makers,” explains Aline Talabard, UITP Communications Manager. “In all there are 27 sessions with over 100 speakers from 36 countries. It is truly an International event with

speakers from Asia/Pacific, America, Middle East and Africa as well as Europe and Eurasia,” she added. “The Exhibition which runs alongside the Congress has an impressive 21,000m2 floor space fi lled with the most innovative products and services. Public transport is part of the solution to the current energy, financial and economic crises. New political thinking around sustainable investments and a lifestyle change can only ensure the economic vitality of urban centres for the next decades. In addition, public transport networks worldwide are innovating and developing new approaches in different contexts and to meet different needs. The UITP World Congress and Exhibition will provide a global view of the variety of approaches implemented worldwide,” concluded Aline.

UITP World Congresses and Exhibitions: A bit of history UITP, the international Association for Public Transport held its very fi rst Congress in Berlin in 1886, one year after the founding of the organisation. The former East German capital led the way to 57 other Congresses up to 2009, bringing together all public transport actors and mobility experts every two years.

The birth and growth of the exhibition UITP fi rst started to organise exhibitions in the 1960s, and, starting with the 1971 Congress in Rome, which has always held an exhibition in conjunction with the event. Since the 1970s the exhibition has rapidly developed to become the leading global business venue for urban and regional passenger transport, with participation from all major rail integrators and bus manufacturers, leading component and technology fi rms, the service industry and other public transport players.

The Congress programme through the years The high cost of horses’ maintenance was one of the fi rst questions discussed at UITP’s Congress in 1886. The themes of the Congresses have obviously evolved with the developments of the public transport sector, but they have always tackled the ‘hot’ issues of the time – technical, commercial or operational – from an international perspective. At the beginning of the 20th century, today’s current issues were already on the agenda, such as town-planning in relation to tramway lines and a proposal for uniformity in the compilation of statistics, as discussed in Brussels in 1910. The 1920s brought reports on the one-man operation of tram-cars, motor bus services, and the link between transport and city planning. The topic of private transport – motor cars – was introduced for the fi rst time at the Warsaw Congress in 1930. From the post-War period the themes of the Congresses ranged from electric power transmission and fundamental subjects like economics and rolling stock design to traffic congestions – a big issue already in 1955. Topics on the programme in the 1970s included marketing, environment, the energy crisis in 1975 and public authorities’ participation in transport costs. The transport situation in Latin America, India, Africa and Hong Kong was at the heart of the debates at the Congress held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil in 1983. In the last decade, debates have expanded from the quality of service for passengers to making public transport att ractive by using future technologies and the major role of the sector for an urban and congestion-free 21st century. Vienna, the host city for this year’s 58th UITP Congress and Exhibition, previously welcomed visitors to the event in 1904 and 1963. In 1981, the 44th UITP Congress came to Dublin. 8 FLEETBUS&COACH | Summer 2009

PREVIEW Public transport offers better value for money than accounted for Findings of a recent Focus Paper undertaken by UITP, the International Association of Public Transport on the assessment of the benefits of public transport reveal that current appraisal techniques do not do justice to the full benefits public transport schemes provides to the wider economy. The UITP therefore calls for an extension of traditional appraisal criteria and identifies seven main areas where public transport benefits are not currently considered and measured. 1. Economic productivity: public transport schemes enable wider economic benefits to be exploited by increasing the pool of potential employees and customers for businesses and enabling greater concentration of businesses. These benefits are known as agglomeration benefits. Th is contributes billions of Euros to national GDPs over the lifetime of major schemes. 2. Quality of urban realm: the efficiency of public transport enables people to access city centres, whilst also allowing valuable public space to be used for walking, cycling, relaxing and enjoying our cities. 3. Regeneration, social inclusion and economic vitality: transport schemes have indirect benefits on deprived areas by providing access to large centres of employment, healthcare and other essential services such as education. 4. Reliability of the transport system: public transport provides levels of reliability which enable business and commuters to make the best use of their time with a direct and positive effect on overall productivity. 5. Population growth: urban populations are growing, and the demand for housing is increasing as household size diminishes. The integration of housing and transport planning enables cities to grow in size sustainably. In particular, where accessibility to an area is poor or non-existent, there can be a strong case for making sure that good public transport connections are in place before a new housing development is completed. 6. Health benefits: there is increasing recognition of the interrelationship between transport, the environment and physical activity. 7. Security: public transport contributes to enhancing personal security and to reduce both crime rates and the perception of insecurity. Improved personal security is very valued by citizens.

UITP calls for the acknowledgement of public transport “Any stimulus plan that does not integrate urban mobility will fail. Heavy investments in the car sector and on road infrastructure are converging to push us into the next crisis: the climatic one,” says Hans Rat, UITP Secretary General. Public transport belongs to the sustainable and low-carbon economy industries that will support future growth. However, according to the HSBC Global Research report on more than 20 economic recovery plans, within the $430 billion invested in fi scal stimulus to key climate change industries, few have earmarked anything for public transport improvements.

EXHIBITORS

• Every direct job in urban transport creates 2.5 to 4.1 jobs in the economy. • Transport accounts for 19% of GHG emissions (up to 26% in the USA) and road transport currently accounts for 74% of all these emissions. • Only a massive modal shift can bring about short-term results. • In Europe alone, urban centres generate about 70% of the wealth created. Congestion destroys about 7% of this wealth.

Cummins at Euro 5 + EEV

VAN HOOL continues to invest in alternative drivelines

Cummins class leading ISBe engines gines now offer further environmentall and urers cost benefits to vehicle manufacturers and operators. Rigorous testing has eet proved that the ISBe will now meet the EEV emissions levels without the tion, need for additional particulate fi ltration, and the resulting installation and maintenance costs. Cummins clean ISBe meets EEV

On the occasion of the UITP Congress in Vienna, VAN HOOL presents a full range of hybrid buses. The Belgian manufacturer is keen to highlight its continuous investment in the development of alternative drivetrains. The aim is to make an important contribution to the reduction of fuel consumption, noise levels and the emission of harmful exhaust gases. Using tried and tested electrical drive technology prov ided by Siemens Van Hool will showcase three types of dieselelectric hybrids – a midibus, standard bus and articulated bus.

without Particulate Filtration

EEV stands for “Enhanced Environmentally-friendly Vehicle”, and is a voluntary standard that is more stringent than the lowest levels introduced by the European Community to date, Euro 5. Versus Euro 5, EEV requires particulate matter to be reduced a further 33% (from 0.03 g/kW/hr to 0.02g/kW/hr) on the European Transient Cycle. Hydro-carbons, carbon monoxide and oxides of nitrogen (NOx) remain as low as Euro 5.

Text: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie

Recently 35 VAN HOOL articulated diesel buses has been supplied to Flemish Public Transport Operator De Lijn with 4 standard hybrid buses (A300) to be delivered to Dutch firm Connexxion. FLEETBUS&COACH | Summer 2009 9

INNOVATION

Mercedes-Benz Citaro – the mobile clinic technical equipment used to monitor patients covers the entire range, including an ECG and – a world first – an InSpectra shock monitor with which the oxygen saturation in tissue-matter can be monitored by simply placing a sensor on the palm. This development breakthrough is able to warn doctors of the onset of shock minutes before it occurs, so that appropriate countermeasures can be taken. Internal bleeding can also be detected and monitored with this unit.

The two 12m Citaro’s are powered by a 300hp engine with the 354hp version of the OM457 powerplant used in the 18 metre articulated bus. Specifically for the hot conditions in Dubai, both buses feature high-performance air conditioning systems, and air curtains at the doors prevent warm air from entering and cool air from escaping. Vehicle safety is ensured by the Electronic Braking System (EBS), disc brakes all-round, ABS and side impact protection.

rom now on, it is the hospital that comes to the patient in Dubai! Two 12 metre standard Mercedes-Benz Citaro low floor passenger transport vehicles and one 18 metre articulated model have gone into service as rapid medical assistance vehicles in the event of major emergencies i.e. accident or disasters with large numbers of injury victims. As is well known, the survival chances of very seriously injured persons in large measure depend on treatment within the ‘Golden Hour’ and this is the purpose of the large-capacity ambulances. Due to the chaotic traffic conditions in and around disaster areas, there are often delays in gett ing patients to a hospital. In addition, sometimes there are an insufficient number of ambulances available. While a two-person crew is normally only able to care for one patient in an emergency ambulance, up to 20 persons can receive care from four specialist personnel in the Mercedes-Benz large-capacity ambulance. These new emergency vehicles now offer the unique possibilities of a fully equipped,

10 FLEETBUS&COACH | Summer 2009

mobile clinic with an intensive-care unit and an operating theatre. The Worlds largest ambulance German vehicle conversion specialists Gerb. Heymann GmbH working with the international research and consultancy company “Von Bergh Global Medical Consulting” have developed vehicles that meet the very highest medical requirements. Three variants have been produced: Bus variant A is designed as a mobile intensive care unit, variant B for the large-scale treatment and transport of medium to slightly injured patients, and variant C as a combination of the two. Th is variant alone has enough treatment and transport capacity for more than 80 patients. There are three observation bays in the interior of the intensive-care bus, and one of these can be converted into a fully functioning operating theatre. The

Further diagnosis is possible using X-rays and ultrasonic equipment. The Mercedes-Benz large capacity ambulances are equipped with the world’s smallest X-ray unit, whose output is so low that precautions such as lead screens are unnecessary. The X-ray images are shown on a computer monitor in real time. The MercedesBenz large-capacity ambulances are also well equipped if the need for a caesarian birth arises. Not only are the necessary obstetrical instruments on board, but the newborn or premature baby can also be given the proper care in an incubator. The onboard supply of oxygen for patients posed a particular challenge, as this is a major factor in the treatment of injured persons. Each of the buses carries 12,000 litres of oxygen, ensuring a reliable supply for up to three days. An operator station at the front of these vehicles allows external communication by telephone, radio, internet and fax. A laptop is included in the equipment, as is a large LCD monitor which enables the individual areas in the largecapacity ambulance to be monitored. Converting the former International Bus of the Year Mercedes-Benz Citaro buses into ambulances took around 700 hours. The low floor buses also feature roll-in systems for stretchers such as those used by paramedical services, so that patients can be rolled into the vehicle in a prone position. The buses can also be equipped with a rearmounted equipment box containing generators, tents for treatment of more injury victims, decontamination systems with the relevant protective suits and an oxygen concentrator.

Text: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie

FEATURE

river CPC is a new dimension for the road transport industry in Ireland. Driver CPC puts in place ongoing training for all Bus and Truck professional drivers in line with what has historically been happening in other EU States. The implementation of the EU Directive signifies the importance of professional drivers to the economy and to the EU as a whole and illustrates the need for the profession of driving to be put on an equal standing with other professions in the workplace.

There are other CPC’s related to the transport industry such as the Transport Manager CPC which covers areas such as setting up a transport business, financial management and vehicle maintenance. Transport Manager CPC is separate from Driver CPC and you will require both if you are a transport manager and a professional driver. Driver CPC main focus is on the driver and covers areas such as Road Safety, Health and Safety of the Driver and Eco-Driving. The Road Safety Authority implemented Driver CPC for Buses on the 10th September 2008 and is currently at the final stages of implementing Driver CPC for Trucks for 10th September 2009. All new bus and truck drivers will have to pass a 4 hour theory test and a 30 minute practical test as well as the current driving test to obtain Driver CPC after these dates. The theory test and practical test is developed to ensure the applicant has a comprehensive knowledge of the Rules of the Road and of the skills and professionalism to be a full time driver of a bus and truck. When they pass all examinations

The Driver CPC Programme Any driver of load carrying vehicles of 3.5 tonnes (Gross Vehicle Weight) and upwards and minibuses with 8+ seats or more come under Driver CPC. Driver CPC will enable young people to enter these sectors in a safe and professional manner, from 18 years of age, subject to any licence restrictions. The Driver CPC examination consists of a two hour multiple choice theory test - 100 multiple choice questions, with 61 correct answers needed to pass. The second part is a two hour case study theory test. It consists of three Case Studies. These give descriptions of situations that a driver might face and puts 15 questions on each Case Study to the test candidate. To pass correct answers must be given to 28 of the 45 questions with a minimum of at least 5 questions passed in each of the Case Studies. Should you fail any part of the test you will have to re-sit that part of the test again. On completion of the test and if you pass the four parts of the Driver CPC examination you can apply for a driving licence and Driver 12 FLEETBUS&COACH | Summer 2009

they will then be issued with a Driver CPC Qualification Card which they will require as well as their driving licence.

The titles of the modules are:

If you hold a full licence in either bus or truck before the September dates above you will not have to sit the extra tests, you will however have to do one days training per year over the following 5 years to ensure you retain your Driver CPC. The licence you have at present which identifies that you have either a bus or truck licence is evidence that you have a valid Driver CPC. When you complete your 5 years of training you will then be issued with a Driver CPC Qualification Card.

•

The training has been developed to ensure that the driver has an interesting and educational experience from the training. The training has also been developed in line with the requirements of the EU Directive. Training has practical benefits for the driver and the industry such as improved driving skills which will lead to fewer casualties on our roads and giving greater protection to more vulnerable road users. Improved driving skills will also save on the costs of vehicle repair and loss of trade. In relation to the Safety and Eco-Driving research has shown that safe and fuel efficient driving shows an average of 12% saving on fuel costs, 40% reduction in gear changes and a 60% reduction in safety related faults. There are six training modules in total of 7 hours duration with additional reading material to cover specific areas.

CPC card in that category. Your Driver CPC card records your photograph, signature, categories of vehicle you have Driver CPC for, etc. After that you will be required to do periodic training over the next five years to keep your Driver CPC. At the end of the day it is expected that the implementation of the Driver CPC regime will lead to less casualties on our roads and protect more vulnerable road users such as pedestrians, motorcyclists, cyclists, children and older people. It should also save employers in costs of vehicle repair and loss of trade. It should also create a level playing field for the road haulage and passenger transport industry in terms of hiring qualified staff and should improve and promote quality standards which match the best in Europe. Furthermore, we continuously hear of concerns for all professional drivers about their health, lifestyle, eating habits, symptoms and effects of fatigue and stress and work life balance. These periodic training courses are designed to help address these issues.

•

• • • •

Control of the Vehicle and Eco-Driving Techniques. Minimising Risks and Managing Emergencies in the Transport Industry. Health and Safety for the Professional Driver. Role of the Professional Driver in the Transport Industry. The Professional Truck Driver. The Professional Bus Driver.

Training will be carried out by RSA approved centres, at present there are over 70 approved Driver CPC training centres which ensures competition in the marketplace for good standards and costs of training. The process of getting RSA approved training centre status is rigorous to ensure quality standards of facilities and trainers. There are a number of headings in the trainers application where the training organisations have to provide evidence of their standards, some of these include, premises, trainers, record management, identity checking, evidence of attendance. The “Guidelines for the Approval of Driver CPC Training Centres” and the application are available on www.rsa.ie. The RSA will monitor the training standards of all trainers to ensure that every driver benefits from Driver CPC Legislation has been enacted for Driver CPC which sets out penalties for driving without a valid Driver CPC. Penalties have also been put in place in all EU countries in relation to driving without a valid Driver CPC. An Garda Síochána and RSA Transport Officers have the powers to enforce Driver CPC, under the law with fi nes up to €2,000 for failing to hold a certificate. The RSA is fully aware that this new obligation on drivers to participate in training is a fundamental change on how the industry’s drivers have been trained previously. Driver CPC will lead to a change in the perception of professionally drivers who will now have a recognised vocational qualification with continuous training and development of skills as a requirement. The Irish Driver in the Transport industry will be on an equal if not better professional standard than his European counterparts due to the system put in place by the industry in conjunction with the RSA. Further details from Driver CPC Unit, Moy Valley Business Park, Primrose Hill, Dublin Road, Ballina, County Mayo. Locall: 1890 50 60 80 Telephone: (096) 25 015 Fax: (096) 25 252 email: cpc@rsa.ie website: www.rsa.ie

FEATURE

Approved Training Centers Only Training Centres that have been approved by the RSA are eligible to provide Driver CPC Periodic Training. In addition, only training materials that have been approved by the RSA are to be used by Training Centres, in the delivery of training to individuals interested in attaining or maintaining a Driver CPC. Since the Bus and Coach driver training got underway there have been many sessions already held and enquiries are now coming in from truck drivers who join are now joining the scheme. Tony Hynes of CPC.ie, Ireland’s leading CPC specialists, which has delivered the Tranport Manager CPC Course for over 20 years, says that CPC.ie is inundated with enquiries about the Driver CPC. Tony says, “Whilst a lot of drivers were hesitant and sceptical about the course initially the feedback has been brilliant. Drivers who have attended the Driver CPC modules with CPC.ie have been very enthusiastic about the course and praising the practicality of the content. In the current economic environment operators have been very impressed with the cost savings which can be applied to the bottom line. Others, because of the relevance of the subject matter, have even attended the course even though they are not obliged to.” For example Orla Canton, who undertook a Transport Manager CPC, also attended the Driver CPC Module 1 training recently, even though she is not obliged to do this training. Orla enthused: “this course is brilliant and, even though I didn’t have to do it, I found it very interesting and useful”. “Even though the Driver CPC training is not mandatory for truck drivers until September we are very busy with enquiries from haulage companies looking for dates in September. This should be seen an excellent reflection on the industry and how positively the training is being received. This training is a win/win for everyone concerned and most importantly will promote excellence in road safety and accident prevention,” added Tony Hynes. Gills Driving School has three RSA approved training centres in Ballina Castlebar and Sligo to deliver Driver CPC training to either new drivers or existing divers. Gills Driving School (Ballina) has been in operation for the past 37 Text: Gerry Murphy – gerrym@fleet.ie

years and offers training from the learner to the advanced driver in all categories of vehicles from the car to the bus to the artic truck. Gills is pleased to add the Driver CPC training to its list of training courses it currently provided. ISM - Ireland’s Nationwide Driving School - is providing CPC Training for Bus and Truck Drivers in Dublin, Cork and Galway. “As part of the training in Dublin, we have our own Training Grounds with Rigids, Artics, Minibuses and Coaches to show practical demonstrations of various aspects of the CPC Training to the participants. ISM offers drivers the benefit of decades of experience, unparalleled local knowledge, and access to a huge range of resources. Our team is professional, friendly, experienced, and 100% committed to making each training project a success. We are also determined to make this an easy process for all drivers,” said Karl Walsh, ISM.

The NorthWest Training Centre (NWTC) got its busy schedule of Driver CPC courses off to a flying start in April with further courses in all of its approved centres planned for the Summer months. NWTC has seven Approved centres around the country including Dublin, Drogheda, Monaghan, Carrick-on-Shannon, Galway, Sligo and Letterkenny. Brian Sweeney, Director at the NorthWest Training Centre said, “We started the delivery of the training in April with the first courses taking place in Carrick-on-Shannon, Drogheda and Letterkenny”. “The feedback from drivers on the courses has been very positive and we have already secured bookings for 2010, with companies reserving their preferred date for the second day of Driver CPC training.” Brian continues, “NWTC have been delivering driver training to the transport industry for over 30 years and are acutely aware of the financial pressures transport companies are under at the moment. Therefore we are offering a special discounted price of €99 per driver and €1,200 for a group of 16 drivers on all our courses scheduled in June, July and August. This is one of the most competitive offers on the market and we have

had an excellent response with places on courses scheduled for May almost booked out.” Meanwhile, as another example of the price structures out there, the Irish Risk Management Centre has a special offer going for July and August at €75 on Wednesdays and Fridays, based at the Irish Risk Management Centre, M7, Kill Village, County Kildare. Saturdays still available at €100.00 Many of the appointed training companies operate and offer training session in different locations. CMT Driver Training, from Caherdavin in Limerick travel to various locations. “We offer training to individuals and companies nationwide on a variety of dates, times and venues to suit. Our team of CPC Driver trainers have worked in the industry as professional drivers and through their own practical experience they know what the Industry wants from CPC and are committed to delivering this for the professional driver. We are currently holding training in: Greenhills Hotel (Limerick), Silver Springs Hotel (Cork) and Maldron Hotel, (Galway),” says Maria Murray of CMT Driver Training. Others offer additional health and safety training and transport training solutions. Aidan Flynn of Ice Training Solutions outlines some of the training on offer. “Ice Training Solutions is delighted to be a registered provider of Driver CPC training. Driver CPC is very important training, not just for companies to comply with the EU directive, but also for a host of other reasons. This training will help drivers improve their knowledge in a number of key areas crucial to safer driving and handling of vehicles including, braking systems, risks of the road, ability to assess emergency situations, the importance of physical and mental health and preventing physical risks etc.” He added, “The transport company will certainly benefit from this training and in our opinion it will help companies be health and safety compliant as well as helping them promote safer driving standards for their clients. All in all this is a win-win situation for both drivers and companies alike. Ice Training Solutions is committed to providing effective and enjoyable Driver CPC training to bus and coach companies. Some of our other training and health and safety solutions include, digital tachograph training, manual handling training, safety statements.”

FLEETBUS&COACH | Summer 2009

DRIVER CPC APPROVED TRAINING COMPANIES DIRECTORY See www.rsa.ie for up to date list of Trainers/Centres

Advanced Driver Training Academy (ADTA)

Chevron Training & Development

Tel: 087 6236033 Contact: Yvonne Kinnarney Web: www.advanced-driver-training-academy.ie Centres: Mullingar (Westmeath)

Tel: 1890 252 647 Contact: Karl Fitzpatrick Web: www.chevrontraining.ie Centres: • Carlow • Cavan • Tivoli (Cork) • Letterkenny (Donegal) • Saggart (Dublin) • Tralee (Kerry) • Galway • Drogheda (Louth) • Westport (Mayo) • Abbeyleix (Laois) • Limerick • Naas (Kildare) • Springhill (Kilkenny) • Monaghan • Rosses Point (Sligo) • Waterford • Wexford • Newtownmountkennedy (Wicklow)

Chris Burke Tel: 091 591450 Contact: Chris Burke Email: chrisburkecpc@eircom.net Centres: Knocknacarra (Galway)

CMT Driver Training Tel: 061 322652 Web: www.cmt.ie Centres: • Tivoli (Cork) • Oranmore (Galway) • Ennis Road (Limerick)

CPC Drivers Course Tel: 01 4404279 Contact: Walter Pisarnik Web: www.cdts.ie Centres: Santry (Dublin)

Flexibus Kerry Flyer Ltd Tel: 046 9074830 Web: www.meathtransport.com Centres: • Scartagilin (Kerry) • Navan (Meath)

Gills Driving School Tel: 096 73030/086 8255355 Contact: David Marsh Web: www.gillsdrivingschool.ie Centres: • Ballina (Mayo) • Castlebar (Mayo) • Dunally (Sligo)

Intellicom Tel: 086 1291392 Contact: John Maher Email: john@motorlearn.com Centres: Clonmel (Tipperary)

Irish Risk Management Centre Tel: 045 878544 Contact: Mary Shanley Web: www.jfd.ie Centres: Kill Village (Kildare)

Chris Mee Safety Engineering Tel: 1850 315 415 Web: www.cmse.ie Centres: • Carrigaline (Cork) • Galway • Lower Mount St. (Dublin) • Swords (Dublin) • Portlaoise (Laois) • Limerick • Maynooth (Kildare) • Sligo • Waterford • Athlone (Westmeath) • Bray (Wicklow)

Conor O’Connor Driver CPC Training Tel: 087 2684805 Contact: Conor O’Connor Email: rossdriving@yahoo.co.uk Centres: Killarney (Kerry)

Euro Safety & Training Services Tel: 021 4867900 Contact: Hugh Sheehan Web: www.eurosafety.ie Centres: • Glanmire (Cork) • Cloghneen Road (Cork) • Ballincollig (Cork) • Newlands Cross (Dublin) • Roscrea (Tipperary)

Freightshift Training Tel: 061 480972 Contact: Sean Murtagh Web: www.freightshift training.com Centres: Limerick

Ice Training Solutions Tel: 01 8340911 Contact: Aidan Flynn Web: www.icetraining.ie Centres: Swords (Dublin)

Irish School of Motoring Tel: 1850 530 430 Contact: Karl Walsh/Patrick Horan Web: www.ism.ie Centres: • Montenotte (Cork) • Galway City • O’Connell St. (Dublin)

Lone Star Training Ltd

Kingdom Training Services Ltd

Tel: 087 9234688 Email: lonestartraining@eircom.net Centres: Terryland (Galway)

Tel: 087 2806869/064 6627024 Contact: Noel O’Donoghue Email: kingdomtrainingservicesltd@eircom.net Centres: • Tralee (Kerry) • Killarney (Kerry)

NIFAST Ltd Tel: 01 8424333 Web: www.nifast.ie Centres: Douglas (Cork) • Santry (Dublin)

Passport Training Ltd

Munster School of Motoring Tel: 066 7123692/086 8248260 Tel: Patrick Kenny Email: mkenny28@eircom.net Centres: Tralee (Kerry)

Tel: 066 7185556/086 2458379 Contact: Tony Hynes Web: www.cpc.ie Centres: • Mallow (Cork) • Glanmire (Cork) • Galway City • Tralee (Kerry) • Clondalkin (Dublin) • Ballymun Road (Dublin 9) • Castletroy (Limerick) • Carrick on Shannon (Leitrim) • Navan (Meath) • Monaghan Town • Birr (Offaly) • Waterford City • Athlone (Westmeath) • Enniscorthy (Wexford)

Northwest Training Centre

Robin Mulligan Ltd

Quantum Driving School

Tel: 01 8011433 Web: www.robinmulligan.ie Centres: • Ashbourne (Meath) • Douglas (Cork) • Kylemore Road (Dublin)

Tel: 01 6514170 Contact: Steve Richards Web: www.quantumds.com Centres: Leixlip (Kildare)

Roadskill Ltd Tel: 051 333909/086 8304527 Contact: Richard Thompson Web: www.roadskill.ie Centres: • Waterford • Barntown (Wexford) 14 FLEETBUS&COACH | Summer 2009

Tel: 074 9168634 Contact: Brian/Karl/Stephen Sweeney Web: www.northwest.ie Centres: • Letterkenny (Donegal) • Lucan (Dublin) • Oranmore (Galway) • Carrick on Shannon (Leitrim) • Drogheda (Louth) • Monaghan • Ballinode (Sligo)

Robert Ledwith Tel: 041 6862965/087 6684430 Email: robert.ledwith@gmail.com Centres: Drogheda (Louth)

COVER

Plaxton Elite – ‘Doing ordinary things

t one time when a new baby was born it could take up to a week before it received a fi rst name. Th is tradition added a litt le mystique as people looked at the nameless infant, identified only by its surname. When Plaxton launched its new flagship it was known only by its brand name until it was ‘christened’ at the Euro Bus Expo in Birmingham last November. Flanked by siblings Panther and Paragon, the Plaxton family embraced its latest member, the ‘Elite’. Aimed at the high end of the market the Elite did not take long to make its way across the Irish Sea. Award-winning Matthews Coaches based near Dundalk acquired the fi rst Elite to be registered in Ireland and put it into service in February last. One of their fi rst set of passengers were the players and management of Glasgow Celtic Football Club when they played Dundalk F.C. Fleet Bus & Coach took an opportunity to have a closer look at the Elite, joining Matt hews Tour Co-ordinator Colin Murphy at the Phoenix Park in Dublin.

First Impressions Approaching the Elite the fi rst thing that is very noticeable is the spacious entrance. It is not an optical illusion, the space is really there and although it’s stainless steel structure is similar to that of the Panther and Paragon, the door panel is 80mm wider. The curved shape of the roof line at the front adds to the Elite’s striking appearance but also conceals the Thermo King air conditioning unit which guarantees to improve fuel economy. Bearing no resemblance to the Paragon or Panther the Elite has a European look about it. Initial plans 16 FLEETBUS&COACH | Summer 2009

are to build for the right hand drive market and then decide on expanding into Europe. Operators may be nervous about the amount of glass in the front of the coach, this area is however, divided into three sections.

Interior Plaxton’s designers made the entrance area wider to enhance passenger comfort and to add to this the steps are well placed. A reclining couriers seat folds very tidy and helps make the area clutter free. On this Matthew’s Coach no expense has been spared on the fit-out and although the standard package is substantial some extras have been added. Company JointManaging Director Paddy Matthews specified 52 leather-trimmed ‘Fainsa’ VIP seating. These seats are an inch wider than normal. Aircraft type overhead bins and easy access to the individual lighting and air conditioning controls enhance the passenger experience. Clever designing of the overhead lockers towards the front of the coach and the glass dome improves the view for most passengers

who like to see where they are going. Although Matt hews opted for a 52 seat layout but this could be increased to 56 without losing the centre-mounted washroom facility. Passengers are kept refreshed on the move with hot drinks dispensers and with two fridges supplying cold drinks. Floor level lighting distinguishes the aisle and the entrance steps are illuminated with distinctive LED down lighting concealed in the step edges. Over 11m3 of luggage space is available.

COVER

extraordinary well’ On The Road Available currently on a Volvo B12B chassis, Plaxton expect, depending on customer demand, to build future Elites on MAN and Iveco Eurorider chassis. Our test vehicle was built on a 14m Bizet 6x2 Volvo platform with stainless steel body structure. A second 13m twin axle version is also available. With gross vehicle weight becoming a bigger issue for operators Plaxton feels that the population of the tri-axle coach could be on the increase; a view shared by Matthews Coaches. Fitted with the latest generation I-Shift transmission, ABS and (Engine Brake) retarder, the driver will be more confident and the passengers safer. Good parameters on the steering wheel, electric assistance of all mirrors are additional plus factors along with the slimmer A-Pillar, which enhances the driver’s vision. All control switches are within easy reach. As always a little time setting the seat and mirror positions will more than be made up on the road. Both the driver and the guide have plenty of storage space, which can be locked. Although the front overhang is slightly longer it does not impact greatly on handling,

but you would want to be aware that some tight spots should be approached with caution. Many of the parts including some of the glass fitt ings are now interchangeable with other Plaxton models. Operators will be happy to hear that both the front and rear bumpers are in three sections, so a little manoeuvring accident should not be an expensive event.

Verdict Without doubt this coach will attract attention. Plaxton has pushed the boat out in terms of design. Plaxton needed a coach for the corporate and high end touring sector. Now its here, and the Elite is the business. Plaxton has enjoyed a long history in the Irish market. You only have to look at old pictures of coaches parked at Dublin Zoo, Knock Shrine and the RDS Dublin during the Horse Show to know that Irish operators and Plaxton have had a good relationship. Over the years there may have been a litt le migration but the Plaxton Elite may reverse all that and rekindle the partnership between Irish coach operators and the Plaxton family.

Matthews Coaches Based in Monaghan but only a few miles from Dundalk, Matthews Coaches, established in 1995 continue to go from strength to strength. Awarded ‘Commuter Operator of the Year’ in the Fleet Bus & Coach Awards 2008 Matthews added this Plaxton Elite and 5 Plaxton Panthers to its fleet this year which clearly indicates that it is facing the current economic crises head-on. Operating 26 coaches the company’s core business is its service from Dundalk to Dublin and all intermediate towns. In the last few years the family-run company headed by Paddy Matthews and his wife Mary has developed its own tour business offering people a one-stop shop in terms of coach travel, accommodation and tickets to events. Cheltenham Race Festival is the latest on the Matthew’s travel itinerary and after having had a “Good Cheltenham” this year, a return to Gloucestershire is definitely on the (RACE) Cards! Other events on the Matthews itinerary are the Chelsea Flower Show, Punchestown Races and most events at the O2 Centre in Dublin. “I’m delighted with the coach,” says Paddy. “It’s our first Volvo, and our first new Plaxton, and it really is a winning combination. We launched it by exhibiting it at the main shopping centre in the town, and had a marvellous response. Many felt that the only thing missing was that it had no wings, as people compared it to an airplane due to the high standards of comfort available.” Text & Photographs: Sean Murtagh – sean@fleet.ie

FLEETBUS&COACH | Summer 2009

AWARDS 1

Fleet Bus & Coach Awards 2010

the Environment and Innovation Award. For the dedicated coach operator, as before there are three main categories – Commuter, Inter-City and Tours. Prior to the Awards Presentation and Lunch, MAN Truck & Bus is hosting an Information Seminar featuring its latest products that will increase operator’s efficiency and profitability. 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

Endorsed by the Road Safety Authority details of the categories for the Fleet Bus & Coach Awards 2010 sponsored by MAN Truck & Bus are listed below. Entries can be submitted by individual operators, their customers or suppliers.

Coach Operator of the Year 2010 Awards will be presented to the winner and runnerup in each category.

Bus Operator of the Year:

Innovation:

Th is new award is confined to operators of minibus/midicoach fleets. Applicants must be members of Pambo or FOTO.

“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. passenger.”

Commuter: Operators that provide a scheduled service in urban areas can apply or be nominated for this category. J.J. Kavanagh (Urlingford) won this title in 2008.

Inter-City: Service providers from rural areas to urban centres or to the Capital city are to be honoured here. Callinan Coaches (Claregalway) were the previous winners.

Tours: 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. J. O’Callaghan & Sons (Killarney) was presented with this award last time out.

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

In association with

Care For The Environment: Increases in efficiencies through savings in fuel consumption. Operation of Euro 4/5 engines and adhering to a strict recycling/waste disposal regime come under the spotlight here.

Truck & Bus

Entry Form Fleet Bus & Coach Awards 2010 sponsored by MAN Truck & Bus 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 2010

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 Tuesday 30th June 2009 to Competition Secretary, Fleet Bus & Coach Awards 2010, D’Alton Street, Claremorris, County Mayo. Tel: 094 93 72819 Fax: 094 93 73571 Email: marian@fleet.ie 18 FLEETBUS&COACH | Summer 2009

October 6th

FLEETING SHOTS

GoBus flags Volvo Ocean Race visit to Galway

Solaris Delivers 5000th Bus From Bolechowo

reland’s newest coach operator GoBus has teamed up with ‘Let’s Do It Galway’ to endorse the Volvo Ocean Race 2008/9 coming to the ‘City of the Tribes’. Jim Burke, Managing Director of GoBus and John Killeen, Chairman of ‘Let’s Do It Galway’, were on hand to reveal the specially branded Volvo Ocean Race GoBus Volvo 9700 coach. As the award winning Volvo 9700 Prestige Plus coach travels up and down the country, it will certainly get noticed with the vibrant purple and royal blue colours of the ocean blending in with the white ocean spray and silver sails covering the entire rear and much of the sides of the coach.

ust 13 years after opening production, Solaris Bus & Coach has delivered the 5000th bus built in its Bolechowo factory. The jubilee bus was a Solaris Urbino 12 ordered by Transkom of Koziegłowy, Poland. In addition, the successful Urbino family of low floor buses celebrates its 10th birthday. In a ceremony at the Solaris factory in Bolechowo, Solaris founder Krzysztof Olszewski handed over the keys to the jubilee bus to Marian Szymański, managing director of Transkom, based in Koziegłow y near Poznań.

Busworld Asia

sian Coach Week held during Busworld Asia at Shanghai New International Expo Centre in April honoured the newest generation of Chinese Buses. The top prize ‘Coach Builder of the Year’ went to the HIGER Bus Company. HIGER, as with other Chinese manufacturers combines its own skills with the creativity of a

strong European partner, in this case its Scania. The Shanghai Sunlong SLK6120 F6A3 won the Chinese Coach of the Year.

300 from overseas representing 50 countries. The Chinese Coach and Bus Industry is still rising despite the economic climate. Other prize winners were DAF components which was awarded Best Eng ine Producer of the Year (Euro 4/5 & EEV)

180 exhibitors from 23 countries took part this year including 12 vehicle manufacturers. The Show attracted over 16,000 buyers including

First Plaxton Elites for CIE Tour’s Elite Customers

ith a long pedigree and a demanding clientele, CIE Tours has just introduced three Plaxton Elites to its holiday programme. “Visitors from the United States book tours with CIE because we have a reputation for quality throughout our operation,” says CIE Tours logistics manager Enda Kennedy. “They expect high standards, and rightly so, and we work hard to satisfy them by designing the most exciting and innovative products and using top-quality hotels and top-quality coaches.” While comfort and safety are top priorities, style is important too in what is a highly competitive market.

“The Elites bring new standards of style and comfort to our touring fleet,” Enda Kennedy continues, “and will be running on some of our most prestigious holidays, such as the 14-day British and Irish Grandeur tour which starts in London and gives our customers a taste of England and Scotland, as well as Ireland.”

years,” says Sean Logan, “and I’m delighted to be operating these impressive new coaches on their prestigious holiday programme. CIE Tours currently features eight Britain and Ireland products along with a huge range of Irish-based tours, coach tours of Italy and Eastern Europe along with Deluxe European River Cruises.

The coaches are based on tri-axle Volvo B12B chassis and are being operated for CIE Tours by Logan’s Executive Travel. “We have a strong relationship with CIE Tours which we have developed over a number of

Richmond Coaches enriches customer experience with Volvo 9700

amily run Richmond Coaches (Lisburn, County Antrim) was keen to invest in a triaxle coach to enhance passenger comfort and avoid weight issues. “We looked at a number of tri-axles and felt that Volvo’s was the best on the market,” explained Gerry McKenna, Proprietor. “We’d bought a new Volvo B12B in 2007 and have been very satisfied both with its performance and the excellent feedback we had from both drivers and passengers, so we were very happy to buy another.” 20 FLEETBUS&COACH | Summer 2009

“When we had a look at the 9700 we were impressed not only with its build quality, but the fact that it’s Volvo throughout, along with the luxury interior. In all we feel it’s perfect for our market,” he continued.

In addition to luxury touring holidays, the new vehicle will be used for a number of key corporate and Government contracts throughout Ireland.

Specified with Volvo’s DH12E 12.1 litre engine rated at 460hp and the I-Shift gearbox, the 9700 Prestige Plus benefits from independent front suspension, disc brakes and the latest generation of Electronic Braking System, facilitating smooth braking and excellent road holding for a comfortable, safe journey. Text: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie

OPINION

Back Seat Driver by Sean Murtagh - sean@fleet.ie Road Accident Investigations – making our roads safer?

n the past few years there has been a bigger emphasis put on investigations when a road collision occurs. When a fatal accident takes place it is now the norm to close the road for forensic examination. In incidents where there are serious injuries or where there is a likelihood of a person dying from their injuries at a later stage, the Forensic Accident Team is still required to move in. In the past I have said that it is unfortunate that much of this information is not circulated in a format that may raise awareness of how a set of circumstances could arise that would lead to a similar incident and more fatalities. Not wishing to go over that ground again, I would all the same like to reiterate the points. Information is power and the more information that is dispersed the safer our roads and those using them become. I would like to look at this situation from a different angle. One of the fi rst questions to ask is why investigate an accident in the fi rst place? Generally there are two reasons – fi rstly and most importantly is to fi nd out what happened and try and prevent a similar event from happening again. Secondly, and a litt le more sinister in my view, is to gather enough evidence to prosecute and possibly put somebody in jail. I am a very big fan of the fi rst reason for investigation. It gives me more confidence when I travel knowing that information collected from an accident is used by manufacturers and legislators to allow me to travel safer. I am not such a big fan of the second reason for investigation unless there are very clear indications that an individual or company had been absolutely wreckless. By that I mean that somebody was blind drunk or excessively breaking a speed limit. In more recent times some Court cases have had evidence read to them by witnesses that presents a set of circumstances that seem a lot more serious and dangerous than is the reality. I know not everybody, particularly enforcement people will agree with me on this point, but let me be very clear on where I stand. I carry no brief or sympathy for careless operators and drivers who endanger the lives of others. However, if there is a hurry to bring people and companies before the Courts a culture may start to develop where the facts of an incident get buried,

22 FLEETBUS&COACH | Summer 2009

distorted and people become reluctant to contribute and get involved in giving evidence. I am reminded of an event many years ago where a friend of mine witnessed a minor accident. He agreed to be the Good Samaritan and act as a witness for the injured party. In the weeks leading up to the Court case that the person he was going to help as a witness was adding some very obscure facts and suggestions to the case. My friend’s simple testimony was going to make the other driver guilty of all of the charges. He changed his mind and declined to go to the Court. You can make up your own mind as to what my friend did was right or wrong, but he felt that by being a witness he could be a party to convicting somebody for events not relevant to the original accident. Enforcement agencies should be clear on the outcome they want from any investigation. Do we want to learn from the accident and prevent another one from happening or are we just interested in nailing someone to make an example of them? Of course it is possible to do both but the rush for perceived justice should not be allowed to get in the way of a full and thorough investigation. Recently we have had some cases where people had some very serious charges heard against them in Court. For various reasons the evidence being used to make a case against them did not hold up and so the people were found to be innocent. Unfortunately this created a situation where investigations being carried out but not complete were now in a legal limbo. Findings from these investigations could not and will it seems likely never be published. Now this is the worst possible outcome. Those believed to be guilty of some wrong doing have been found innocent and any events that lead to the incident are suppressed for ever and no chance of lessons being learned. Accident investigation is a key driver of improved safety. It is important that everybody works to make sure we get the maximum results from any event and avoid any temptation or pressure to rush into a court. In these cases justice delayed is not necessarily denied.

BUS LANE Galway Bus strategy progress Galway City Council has extended its Quality Bus Corridor (QBC) with the opening of the new outbound bus lane on the Dublin Road. 750 metres in length, the dedicated section of road for buses and cyclists runs along Moneenaguisha Cross to Renmore Road, thereby saving commuters 10-15 minutes journey time.

Neoplan for Ireland MAN Group’s award-winning Neoplan range of luxury coaches is soon to enter the Irish market. Tourliner models in two (4x2) and three axle (6x2) variants will be available as will the 6x2 version of the Starliner, its flagship. “Low emission buses and coaches featuring EEV (Enhanced Environmental friendly Vehicle) engines will also be on sale here in due course,” says Vince Welsh, M.D., MAN Bus & Coach UK.

Temsa ‘makes room for fresh air’ Around 2600 high profile visitors, 173 speakers and 200 journalists witnessed Temsa’s ‘make room for fresh air’ campaign during the European Business Summit 2009 held in Brussels. As official transporter, Temsa Safari HD and Opalin models were used to shuttle guests from hotels, train stations to the event venue. Temsa’s theme is the more people that travel in buses/coaches, the less space will be used by individual cars and the less air pollution will be created.

International Seminar Planning, Implementing and Operating a High Quality Public Transport Bus System Date: Monday 2nd July 2009 Venue: Management Centre Europe, Brussels Time: 10am – 4pm More details on the Seminar programme as well as a booking form may be found on: www. proceedproject.net

BlueZone Connects Buses Even more Irish bus travellers can enjoy free access to the Internet on their mobile phones thanks to technology supplied by Irish Bluetooth solutions provider, BlueZone Media. Using a Bluetooth enabled mobile phone, travellers on a range of bus routes can now check their Facebook, read news and send and receive emails. The service is be rolled out early this month on a number of coaches from Cork company Butler Buses and will initially benefit passengers on its chartered and sight-seeing tours.