Fleet Bus and Coach Winter 2012

OFFICIAL IRISH JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL BUS/COACH AWARDS

Volume 9. No. 3. Winter 2012

Mercedes-Benz Citaro - Bus of the Year 2013 INSIDE THIS ISSUE:

SHOW REVIEWS:

Official Catalogue RDS, Dublin 24/25 November 2012 - Complimentary

1205024

The next step.

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Strokestown, Co. Roscommon Ireland tel. +353 (0)71 9634 500 fax +353 (0)71 9634 546

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contents Winter 2012

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

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 Contributors: Joe O'Brien, Rob Van Dieten, Michael Corcoran

4 News • EU bus and coach sales rise • Smart Move discuss EU coach tourism • Volvo 7900 Hybrid hits the streets • Bus Rapid Transit gains speed for Dublin • Eminox turns Euro 2 into Euro 5 • Wrightbus International formed • From UK to Pakistan by coach!

• Take world’s longest bus in Dresden plus Bus Lane featuring Callinan Coaches, Logans and Volvo.

8 Cover Congratulations to Mercedes-Benz Citaro 2 – Bus of the Year 2013

www.fleet.ie 28 Test Bus Euro Test 2012, France 32 Review I IAA Commercial Vehicles Show, Hanover, Germany 34 Review II FIAA International Bus & Coach Trade Fair, Madrid, Spain 36 Review III Euro Bus Expo 2102, Birmingham, England 38 Conductor’s Stand Back Seat Driver column

10 Times Past Open top buses 13 Campion Insurance Coach & Bus Show 2012 Official Show Guide • Welcome Note • Exhibitors Profiles • Floor Plan & Listings • Tourism Village

Photography: Jarlath Sweeney, Sean Murtagh, Cathal Doyle, Joe O'Brien, Anders Karlsson, Flickr.com Administration: Orla Sweeney, Denise Vahey,

Bus Euro Test 2012

Advertising: Mary Morrissey, Orla Sweeney Design: Eamon Wynne

SUBSCRIPTION FORM Fleet Transport/ Fleet Car/ Green Fleet Management/ 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.

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.

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FB&C11.12

FLEETBUS&COACH | Winter 2012 3

NEWS 1

New bus and coach sales Smart Move hosts discussions on the future up as EU Commercial Vehicle market continues of EU Coach Tourism he International Road Transport Union’s Smart Move campaign to decline to promote increased use of passenger transport across Europe

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T

cross Europe demand for commercial vehicles from January to September 2012 was down 10.7% with buses and coaches the only segment to grow. From the 1,282,248 new registrations during the fi rst nine months, 23,249 units were passenger transport vehicles, an increase of almost 4% over the same period last year. Demand in the UK primarily in the lead up to the London Olympics saw the market increase by 55% while Denmark recorded a 34% upturn. In Austria and Luxembourg sales were up 27%, with the Finish market buoyant at +30%. As Romania topped the new registration charts up 670%, Ireland was third best gaining 161% behind Estonia up 232%.

hosted a Public-Private High Level Group (HLG) meeting in Brussels to discuss the future of group tourism by coach in Europe.

The biggest losers in the European Union marketplace were Hungary down 72% with neighbouring countries Spain and Portugal sharing the same fate -37% and -30% respectively. Italy was back 32% which clearly indicates the state of the European economy at present.

• •

September results in the bus/coach were just as diverse across the Member States leading to an overall contraction for the month.

The discussion focused mainly on the legislative, administrative and fiscal barriers preventing European group tourism by coach to thrive, such as: • •

The need to take into account the specificity of coach tourism when making EU legislation (passenger rights, driving and rest time rules, technical rules etc.); The need for an EU-wide Group Tourism Charter to be adhered to by businesses, cities and customers; The issue of low emission zones, and The need to recognise group tourism by coach as part of the collective/ public transport chain.

Two external contributions were also presented: from the European Tour Operators Association (ETOA) and Professor Paul Peeters, Associate Professor of Sustainable Transport & Tourism of CSTT, NHTV Breda University of Applied Sciences.

7900H Volvo’s fully integrated Hybrid single deck

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ited as a natural progression, the introduction of the new single deck hybrid 7900H builds on the continued success of the Volvo B5L double decker hybrid in the UK and Ireland.

vehicle end of life.

Pneumatically controlled, the wide, inward gliding entrance doors promote ease of access, while a stepless low floor and a fully optimised internal space allows for 89 seated and standing passengers. Travelling experience is further enhanced with silent boarding and take-off thanks to the hybrid engine’s ‘stop/start’ feature, where the vehicle pulls away from the bus stop in pure electric mode.

“We have successfully introduced a complete 9700 Volvo product to the coach market and we were keen to present operators with more variety in the bus sector. The 7900 is a complete Volvo vehicle built with a hybrid driveline – and that will appeal to operators,” explained Volvo Bus Director, Phil Owen.

Taking advantage of the complete Volvo build, the new 12.1 metre 7900H features a hybrid battery, with several of the systems and cooling circuits roof mounted. Not only does this increase internal space, but it also assists in optimising weight distribution.

4 FLEETBUS&COACH | Winter 2012

It is specified with the Volvo Group D5F 4.8 litre 4 cylinder 210hp diesel, supported by a 120kW Volvo Electric Motor with a Volvo I-Shift gearbox.

The body framework of the 7900H is of aluminium alloy structure providing corrosion resistance and allows for material recycle at

“Volvo Bus has an ongoing commitment to innovation, and the introduction of this new hybrid bus to the UK and Ireland market, demonstrates how we are deploying the latest technology to provide operators with vehicle solutions that deliver lower emissions and enhanced fuel consumption,” Steve Dewhurst, Volvo Bus UK and Ireland.

NEWS II

Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) – Core Dublin Network

F

ollowing the creation of the South East Dublin Rapid Transit Service called Blue Line last year, the National Transport Authority has issued, the ‘Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) – Core Dublin Network’ Report which describes and defi nes a system concept for BRT in the Dublin context. The system concept was defined based on the examination and assessment of the typical components and features that make up a BRT system.

The Report also describes the feasibility study that was carried out on in relation to a proposed core BRT network for Dublin. It identifies a core network comprising of two cross-City BRT corridors: (i) Blanchardstown to UCD; and (ii) Clongriffi n to Tallaght.

It concludes that the two identified corridors have a significant transport demand commensurate with a BRT system, and are appropriate for development as the core BRT network for the city. It also recommends that further detailed planning work should proceed in relation to these corridors.

Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) has emerged in recent years as an effective, cost efficient and high quality public transport system. The National Transport Authority therefore had an interest in exploring the concept further, and determining how it could apply in our capital city.

Planning and design work in relation to these two corridors is currently on-going.

From Euro 2 to Euro 5 with Eminox

E

minox, the UK’s leading emissions technology manufacturer through its SCRT retrofit technology can take Euro 2 engine emission levels to beyond Euro 5.

SCRT is already being used in the UK, Belgium, Spain and Sweden to reduce emissions of PM (Particulate Matter), NOx (oxides of Nitrogen), HC (hydrocarbons) and CO (Carbon Monoxide) from city buses. Working closely with catalyst experts at Johnson Matt hey, Eminox has developed a new generation of SCRT technology, requiring new catalyst formulations and sophisticated system calibrations. In the case of the London buses, CRT systems were already fitted to SCR technology was added

with the new technology enabling them to operate to emissions standards better than Euro 5. An additional 22 buses will be upgraded by March 2013.

and the whole system re-packaged to fit into the space available.

Prior to the London Olympics, 48 Euro 3 Dennis Darts being used during the games were fitted

“Public transport is essential to our economy but older buses do emit higher levels of pollution. It is unrealistic in the current economic climate to expect widespread bus replacement in order to meet tough emissions standards and increasing health concerns. However, our SCRT technology presents a cost-effective solution that is capable of upgrading 15 older buses for the price of one new vehicle, helping improve the quality of air people breathe,” stated Kathye Henderson, Marketing Manager at Eminox.

Wright Group goes Global

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s the European bus market is predicted to be weak for the foreseeable future, Ballymena based Wright Group is looking to expand its international activities.

Now in its 66th year, a new division has been established – Wrightbus International, “to give additional focus and impetus to development of the brand overseas,” according to Mark Nodder, Group Managing Director.

As one of Northern Ireland’s largest employers, the company has gone through major changes in the last two years. “We are really two years into a five year plan, which will see the business evolve from a bus bodybuilder predominantly focused on the domestic market, to a complete bus manufacturer with growing international reach. Recent substantial orders, such as the New Bus for London project and continued export contract wins in Singapore and elsewhere in South East Asia, have given us further confidence that our strategy is a sound one.”

Mr. Nodder is confident that the EU market

facility which can respond quickly to changes in demand.”

Significant remodeling at the factory has been made with the objective to reach “world class manufacturing” status. “Our investment in training, equipment and new processes will truly transform an already good facility into a world class one, capable of building 1,500 units annually. Once completed, we will have the potential to mirror this capability in new facilities in other strategically important markets, thereby increasing our volume base and global scale.”

Hot on the heels of the recent launch of two new iPad apps, Wright Group has further extended ease of accessibility to product information by releasing two iPhone apps specifically for its StreetLite single deck bus range and the groundbreaking New Bus for London.

will return, “but until it does, it is important to have a modern, lean, highly flexible production

Wright’s commitment to innovation continues too as emphasised by Mark. “We have a track record in this key area that would be the envy of an automotive business ten times our size.

StreetCar, StreetCar RTV, StreetLite, StreetLite Max, New Bus for London, the new lighter weight double deck project in conjunction with Volvo Bus, our ongoing hybrid and electric vehicle programmes – the story continues.”

Fleet Bus & Coach - First with the news in the PSV industry - www.fleet.ie FLEETBUS&COACH | Winter 2012

5

NEWS 111

BUS LANE New Van Hool Altano for Callinans Callinan Coaches (Galway) will put this new Van Hool Altano TDX21 Double Decker into service in January. The 70+1 seater luxury coach powered by a DAF Euro 5 510hp engine will be a welcome addition to its cross-country service provided to Citylink. Equipment fitted includes fold-down tables, 3 TV screens, WiFi connection and fridge. It made a guest appearance at the Euro Bus Show at the NEC and will be at the RDS, Dublin for the Campion Insurance Coach & Bus Show.

From England to Pakistan through the Silk Road by coach!

F

ancy a long distance coach trip? How about Birmingham to Mirpur, Pakistan for just £130 via France, Germany, Austria, Slovenia, Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria, Turkey and Iran. Promising a ‘thrilling ride’ to all travellers who book a seat, Tahir Khokher, the Transport Minister for Pakistan’s Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) Regional Government, has suggested the luxury service could be particularly popular with youth and those with a sense of adventure.

The journey promised by Mr. Khokher would see four coaches travel in a convoy on the 12 day 4,000 mile trip once a fortnight. Costing around £130 would offer considerable saving on the average airfare ticket price of £600. “I think it could be popular, especially with the young. It would be

an experience, an adventure,” said Hamza Waris, who works in his family-owned travel company, Pak Travel, located in Birmingham’s Small Heath neighbourhood. “It would depend on how things were in Pakistan and in the countries along the route.” Mr. Khokher has confi rmed that he is still working to make his dream become reality and said, “We have been working on the coach service which will not only promote tourism, but also provide cheaper transport solutions to Kashmiris, especially since the recent rise in air fare. It will start in March at the earliest because we are still in negotiation with the Iranian and Turkish governments. Besides, the winters will make travel difficult in Europe,” he informed the Birmingham Mail Newspaper.

12 Plaxton Panthers for Logans A dozen new generation Plaxton Panthers have just entered service at Logans Executive Travel, Dunloy, County Antrim. The new Volvo B9R Panthers are high spec with 53 leather seats and other passenger comforts. “The Plaxton/ Volvo combination is a product we know well and which gives us excellent service. These new coaches confi rm our commitment to both manufacturers and further develops an already strong relationship,” said Sean Logan.

Photo: Myasinilyas

World’s longest bus in service in Dresden

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Volvo Bus MD to retire With a career spanning 36 years in the bus industry, 25 of which were with Volvo, Steve Dewhurst is to retire as the company’s UK & Ireland M.D. next February. Noel Reculet, Senior V.P. Volvo Bus EU said, “The UK and Ireland remains a vital market for Volvo Bus. Steve has been an integral part of the success we have achieved over the last 25 years. I would like to thank him for all his commitment and professionalism and wish him well in his retirement.”

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FLEETBUS&COACH | Winter 2012

utoTram Extra Grand, at 30.7m is the world’s longest bus in operation today. Capable of carrying up to 256 passengers (96 seated and 160 standees) it has been developed and constructed within the research programme “Innovative Regionale Wachstumskerne” of the German Federal Ministry of Education & Research. The AutoTram technology, based on a vehicle concept created by the Fraunhofer IVI bridges the gap between conventional city buses and trams, offering new possibilities for an environmentally friendly public transport.

Built by specialist manufacturer Göppel BusGmbH in Thüringen, the bus is also suitable for adoption in BRT (Bus Rapid Transit) systems that are popular in Asia and South America. Powered by a diesel-electric hybrid system, Iveco and Mercedes-Benz supply the diesel generator units with ZF providing the suspension to the 5 axles and steering systems. The AutoTram has four guided axles, three of which can be controlled by means of a secure

electrohydraulic activator system. With the multi-axle steering system, the vehicle can be driven like a 12 metre bus both forward and reverse. Fraunhofer developed the control and battery storage systems, enabling an all electric operation for a distance of 8 kilometres. With the compact range extender, batteries can be recharged en-route.

Visitors to the I A A Commercial Vehicles Show in Hanover were able to see the AutoTram Extra Grand on the Innovation stage. Interest has already come in from Beijing Public Transport which operates 220,000 public ser vice vehicle f leet.

Text: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie

Never standing

VOLVO BUS

still

Discover one of the latest, exciting Volvo Bus developments at stand L7A in the Main Hall at the Fleet Coach & Bus Show. True to our reputation of never standing still, the Volvo stand will be showcasing the new B11R with the very latest Sunsundegui SC7 body.

Constantly evolving, our range of products and services are designed to bring our customers green efďŹ ciency and greater productivity.

To ďŹ nd out more, join us at stand L7A in the Main Hall!

Wedgnock Lane, Warwick CV34 5YA Tel: 01926 401777

VOLVO BUS. DRIVING QUALITY OF LIFE www.volvobus.co.uk

COVER

Lower fuel consumption with Bus of the Year 2013 Euro 6 Mercedes-Benz Citaro 2

I

t is said that good things or happenings come in threes and this old adage has come true for Mercedes-Benz with its Citaro urban bus. The Daimlerowned public service vehicle brand was fi rst to introduce a Euro 6 drivetrain into the marketplace and was then rewarded for its innovation and initiative with the coveted prize ‘Bus of the Year 2013’. To complete the hat-trick of achievements, the Citaro bettered the company engineers' objective with an 8.5% improvement on fuel economy in the ‘Record Run Buses 2012’ round the clock programme.

At the presentation of the ‘Bus of the Year 2013’ Award, Mr. Hartmut Schick, Head of Daimler Buses said that the new Citaro with Euro 6 technology continues to extend its competitive advantage. “Our prime concern when developing the new Citaro was that we should be able to match economy and efficiency with corresponding gains in performance, safety and comfort.”

Euro 4. The six cylinder OM936 unit comes in two power ratings of 299 hp and 354 hp, offering peak torque levels of 1200 and 1400 Nm @ 1200 rpm respectively. The former variant can be ordered to fit vertically at the rear of the bus if required for low entry models. For the articulated range the OM470 based on the heavy duty cycle engine produces 360 hp and 394 hp with torque ratings of 1700 Nm and 1900 Nm @ 1100 rpm. Power is transferred to the wheels via an automatic transmission (with torque converter) supplied either by Voith or ZF. Interestingly, the new generation Euro 6 engines do not carry any extra weight penalty, so passenger capacity remains unchanged. As mentioned previously, the development team for the new Citaro really must have pulled out all the stops to assure it delivered outstanding economy. Take, for example, the regular service bus’ fuel saving recuperation module – the electrical power generated without using fuel during the over-run phases is stored and

then used to supply power to auxiliary outputs such as fans, lighting, etc, when the bus is accelerating forward again. The air compressive with two-stage control also features an energy regenerating mode.

For the first time, a tyre pressure monitoring system is available which indicates the current pressure in the individual tyres as well as providing a warning when fluctuations are detected. Lowering the entrance heights has led to a substantial reduction in fuel consumption too. Doors 2 and 3 (or 4 on the articulated bus) are now nearer to ground level by 20mm to 320mm to shorten kneeling time and also reduce air consumption.

Exterior design wise, the slightly raised and longer (by 30mm) rear end of the bus distinguishes the new Citaro from previous models. Other restyling elements include new rounded side panels and dark-tinted glass service flap. The lighter engine compartment flap has been redesigned too. LED bulbs are now fitted to the tail light cluster. A

In addition to cutting fuel consumption and CO2 emissions with the Euro 6 drivetrains, AdBlue and engine oil usage has been minimised while the service intervals for the Particulate Filter has been extended to 120,000 km or every two years.

The Daimler Group developed 7.7 litre OM936 and 10.7 litre OM470 in-line 6 cylinder engine units stand out for their spontaneous response from standstill and impressive power output combined with smooth running. Due to the beefy performance available, it was possible to lengthen the final drive ratios compared to the previous engines, which results in reduced engine speed and lower noise levels.

Both engines use the Mercedes-Benz BlueTec exhaust gas after treatment technology where a closed Particulate Filter is combined with the successful SCR system used since the time of 8

FLEETBUS&COACH | Winter 2012

Stuart Jones, Chairman International Bus/Coach of the Year Jury presenting the Bus of the Year 2013 trophy to Hartmut Schick, Head of Daimler Buses alongside the title winning Mercedes-Benz Citaro 2

COVER

friendly smile dominates the Citaro’s front end but behind that pleasant appearance is a safety feature to protect the driver, with the under-run guard meeting European collision protection regulations due in 2017. The segmented side panelling with easily replaceable components simplifies repairs.

Fog lamps with integrated cornering light function and LED daytime running lights are now part of the illumination system.

From the driver’s position, the instrument panel mirrors all the recommendations for the new European driver’s workstation. Extra knee room is provided and the fi nish surface on the dash and surrounding panels have now a soft touch feel. The cockpit with re-arranged switchgear complies with the latest ergonomic fi ndings by the company. The developers have improved the door’s storage area and the partition screen for the driver’s cab is larger than before and curves further forward, too. Drivers also benefit from a higher position that puts them at eye level with passengers who are boarding. The chassis is equipped with anti-roll bars, electronically operated level control and roll-and-pitch control.

To enhance driver safety and enhance the travelling experience for passengers, the Citaro’s chassis has independent front suspension and electronic stability programme (ESP), available

in a low-floor bus for the first time, thereby taking safety technology for this type of public service vehicle into a brand new era.

Citaro Euro 6: 8.5% better fuel economy in Record Run

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ission Impossible it seemed - a simultaneous reduction in fuel consumption and exhaust emissions while meeting Euro 6 emission standards. In the Record Run Buses 2012, the new Euro 6 Mercedes-Benz Citaro urban regular-service bus demonstrated that the two seemingly confl icting goals can be achieved at the same time. During the Record Run Buses 2012 the three Citaros covered a total distance of over 4,000 kilometres under impartial supervision. The bottom line: the Citaro not only delivered on the promised fuel savings of four to six percent but can even noticeably surpass these figures. Another insight gained from the Record Run Buses 2012: Euro 6 can also pay off economically.

The buses completed a demanding round-the-clock program between 22 and 26 October 2012. Loaded at 50 per cent of the payload with a realistic 3.2 t of ballast, the three Mercedes-Benz Citaros each covered a distance of about 1400 km in demanding urban traffic.

The urban traffic in Hesse’s capital Wiesbaden and trips between Leipzig and Hamburg as well as routes in the quadrangle formed by the cities of Leipzig/Sangershausen, Schweinfurt, Hof and Bautzen presented challenging routes for the five buses.

Text: Rob Van Dieten - rob@fleet.ie

automotive organization and were tracked with the help of the FleetBoard telematics system.

With the exception of two refuelling stops each day, the buses operated around the clock for five days straight.

The Mercedes-Benz Citaro came to the starting line in three versions: The new Euro 6-certified model with the also new Mercedes-Benz OM 936 h engine and a displacement of 7.7 litres and a rated power output of 220 kW (299 hp) faced the directly comparable Euro 5-certified predecessor models with OM 906 hLA engine (6.4 litres displacement, rated power output 286hp as well as with OM 457 hLA engine 299hp). ZF EcoLife transmissions, final drive ratios and tyres were identical in each case. The test vehicles and their operations were monitored by Dekra, an independent specialist

With a fuel consumption of 38.7 l/100 km the new Euro 6-certified Citaro turned in an excellent performance in the Record Run Buses 2012 in light of the difficult route. It considerably outperformed its predecessors, which are known to be economical, by 3.6 l/100 km or 8.5 per cent.

This means the Euro 6 Citaro not only delivers on the brand promise of fuel savings of three to five percent but can even significantly surpass these figures. Assuming an annual mileage of 60,000km it also relieves the burden on the environment by 5700kg in CO2 emissions at the same time.

The fuel savings translate into a surprising economic equation: assuming an annual mileage of 60,000 km and current fuel prices of about €1.25 per litre (excluding VAT), the new Euro 6 Citaro saves about €2,700 in costs for diesel fuel annually. The additional expense for the new Euro 6 Citaro is worthwhile not only because the vehicle pays for itself after about four years but also due to the predicted higher value retention.

The conclusion to be drawn from the Record Run Buses 2012: the move to Euro 6 not only significantly lowers the fuel consumption and emissions of the Mercedes-Benz Citaro; Euro 6 also pays off economically.

FLEETBUS&COACH | Winter 2012

9

TIMES PAST

OPEN TOPPERS

This drawing shows bett er than a photograph the primitive type of horse tram bought for the North Dublin Street Tramways in 1875.

O

pen-top buses, which have become ever more prominent in the past quarter of a century, probably have more associations with enjoyment than almost any other vehicle type.

They provide attractive transport for countless visitors to our cities and on scenic routes in summer. Even more, they are increasingly used to transport victorious sports teams, bringing much pleasure to the many people who turn out to witness these joyous occasions. But the principle of the open-topper goes back a long way and had a difficult birth that is well worth a recall.

In 1840s London, when box-like horse buses, holding about 20 passengers, were incapable of carrying the great numbers of people wishing to travel, enterprising young men began to climb on the roofs of the vehicles. Th is dangerous practice led to ladders being provided at the

rear of the buses with a bench placed along the centre line of the roof, enabling passengers to sit back to back. Because this was still very dangerous, railings were erected around the top of the vehicle to prevent passengers from falling off. And thus the principle of the double-decker came into being and was adopted for trams as well as buses.

A problem arose when women wanted or had to travel upstairs – outside, as the upper decks of trams were officially known right up to 1949. In the age of Victorian prudery, it was considered immodest for a woman to allow even her ankles to be seen and so decency boards were att ached to the railings of the vehicles. The boards were soon used to display advertising, marking another stage in the evolution of buses and trams. The straight ladders soon changed to a spiral pattern but they remained primitive, with bar-like treads, no risers and rudimentary guard

Dublin United Tramways Co. Tram No. 199, at Whitehall Terminus in early nineteen teens.

10

FLEETBUS&COACH | Winter 2012

rails. The drawing of the 1870s North Dublin horse tram shows better than any photograph just how unsophisticated these ladders were.

An improvement saw the ladders now ending on a platform where the conductor could stand.

This arrangement also made boarding and alighting easier and safer and provided space for the tram driver; horse bus drivers were still seated at roof level.

Skeletal staircases, as well as being dangerous, provided much ammunition for the self appointed guardians of public morality. Their righteous outrage was well expressed in a letter which appeared in the Freeman’s Journal on 23 April 1878: Dear Sir, In the interest of womanly decency, may I ask of you and your contemporaries to use your influence with the Dublin Tramway Company that on such days as this, when the weather is so fi ne and the cars so crowded, they re-place upon the ladders leading up to the outside seats the canvas screening which was used during their fi rst summer here.

Th is would prevent the positively scandalous scenes, which were witnessed today from the starting places of these conveyances – Yours truly, ‘A Passer-by.’

As vehicles evolved, more substantial staircases came into vogue and the back-to-back upstairs seating, known as the knifeboard, gave way to pairs of seats, originally called garden type, accommodating two passengers, on each side of a central gangway or aisle. When electric trams replaced horse cars around the turn of the century, bodywork initially remained unchanged; in Dublin, more than eighty horse tram bodies were simply placed on electric trucks and appropriately fitted out, some of them clocking up a further twenty years of service.

The bodywork of the primordial motorbuses that appeared from 1900 onwards owed much to their horse-drawn predecessors but after the 19141918 war progressively improved vehicles came into service. Lower chassis frames, pneumatice tyres and enclosed drivers’ cabs were among the major improvements. But while all passenger vehicles became more refined and covered upper decks became increasingly common, open-top trams and buses continued to emerge. Some of the reasons for the continued use of opentoppers were purely local, eg the presence of a low bridge; others included the refusal of licensing authorities to approve a particular type of vehicle.

While the drivers of open-top buses moved with reasonable speed in many areas from openfronted cabs to the protection of a windscreen areas, tram drivers (motormen) were not quite so lucky. A cursory glance at the photograph of Dublin tram No. 199 will suffice to conjure up the hard life endured by tramwaymen (especially the motormen) working on these vehicles, some of which lasted into the 1920s. Duties could stretch as long as an eleven hour day: imagine the crew of a tram like No. 199 standing out in all weathers, at least eight hours a day, six days a week. Th is is but one of the reasons for all the industrial unrest that happened in 1913.

TIMES PAST

A Star (London) horse-bus of the 1890s. London Bus picture.

Certain towns, particularly well-patronised English holiday resorts, appreciated the visitor value of open-top buses, keeping some old vehicles in service and converting others for tourist work. After World War II, their use increased and in some places convertible buses were acquired – vehicles with detachable roofs that could be used all the year round. When some of the older vehicles in time entered advertising roles, it was only a matter of time before such buses came to Ireland. Two buses that came to Ireland ended up in the Transport Museum collection.

FRU 305 is a 1950 Bristol with 1937 Brush bodywork that came here as an advertising

Solid-tyred Karrier open-topper in Galway c1927.

vehicle in 1969, was rescued from a scrapyard in 1975, and refurbished. It was, as far as is known, the fi rst open-topper to have been used to celebrate a sports event in Ireland when it carried the Dublin GAA all-Ireland football team in their victory parade in 1977. The second Museum open-topper (re-registered IY 1940) is a 1948 Lancaster AEC Regent which arrived here in 1980 and was presented to the Museum

by Bernard Kavanagh & Sons in 1998.

Here, the use of open-toppers for tours began soon after the establishment of Dublin Bus and Bus Eireann in 1987. All the CIE group vehicles adapted for this work have been rearengined Leyland Atlanteans and Olympians or

The Transport Museum’s 1950 Bristol FRU 305 carrying the victorious Dublin football team, September 1977.

Open-top Dublin Bus Leyland Atlantean D413 as used in the 1990s.

Text: Michael Corcoran -enquiries@fleet.ie

Volvos. Other operators, notably Dualway, also operate open-toppers ranging from converted London Routemasters and MCW six-wheelers to new Olympians. Abroad, cities in the United States, France, Germany, Italy and Australia are among the open-top operators, which seem destined to continue growing in number. Here in our climate, as in Britain, the partly open-top double-decker has become widely used, affording passengers some weather protection. What a far cry from the ladders and planks of the 1840s!

A 1948 AEC Regent, later donated to the Transport Museum by Mr P Kavanagh of Urlingford, returning from a rally in Bangor on 26 April 1986 - note the petrol prices.

Dublin Bus Leyland Olympian RH86, typical of modern part-open top city tour buses.

FLEETBUS&COACH | Winter 2012

11

EVENT INNOVATING FOR OUTSTANDING SOLUTIONS

introducing the new w

Touring GT T powered by Mercedes-Benz

Rare plants and Romantic Rhododendrons at Russborough ...

R

ussborough is busy at work as it prepares to host the Nationwide Specialist and Rare Plant Fair in May 2013 and open its own Secret Rhododendron Garden.

If you thought that rare plants were limited to exotic locations such as the Caribbean, think again! Some rare and special plants were shipped to Ireland from all across the globe in the early 18th centuries for historic homes such as Russborough built in 1741.

The new coach boasts many improvements over the previous model but will still retain the class leading luggage space and fuel economy 41 seats with improved leg room

Contemporary styling with class leading drag coefficient

Increased luggage capacity

Continental door as standard

Next year as Russborough is host to the National Rare and Specialist Plant Fair and invite plant lovers from all over Ireland and beyond to enjoy and view the beautiful array of flowers and vibrant colours of this rare foliage.

This it is your chance to see some of these rare plants and to enjoy some of the many events and stalls on view at Russborough. So if you have nothing in your diary for May 2013 now is your chance to get busy, learn a little about these rare plants and gain some inspiration as you add new dimensions to your own garden.

Toilet washroom option available while retaining luggage capacity

Coming December 2012 ...

Central Bus & Coach Keenagh, Co. Longford. t: 043 332 2023 e: sales@centralbusandcoach.ie www.centralbusandcoach.ie

FOR ALL YOUR SPECIALIST WASHING NEEDS • High pressure wash systems for vehicles, factories and farms.

• We design, manufacture, supply, install and service wash systems.

• Customised solutions for your specific requirements.

• Wash Water Recycling Systems, Rainwater Harvesting Systems and Pollution Control Products.

Consultation, Manufacture, Supply and Service GIVE US A CALL, WE ARE HAPPY TO HELP P.E Services, Unit 1, Crubany Business Park, Crubany, Co. Cavan.

Tel: 049 4379144 Email: info@peservices.ie Web: www.peservices.ie 12

FLEETBUS&COACH | Winter 2012

Russborough which is famed for its Guided House Tours and famous Art collection has introduced a wide new range of visitor attractions to its offerings such as a 3D interactive studio in the basement, West Wing Self Catering Accommodation and who will also be introducing Guided Demesne Tours in the Spring of 2013, making it the perfect choice for this Nationwide event.

With the Garden Tours sharing historic stories across their fascinating grounds you can view everything from an 18th Century ‘Ice House’ to a ‘hippodrome’ (19th Century Riding School). Russborough is really thrilled with this great honour as AnnMarie O’Grady, Sales and Marketing manager said, “this is such an honour for Russborough and it is just the type of event we are keen to embrace as we showcase all the great developments that we have achieved in the past few years at Russborough. It helps us gain recognition as a key visitor attraction in Ireland and we appreciate this wonderful opportunity.

Huge thanks to the Rare and Specialist committee and to Bord Bia, our event sponsor.” At the Fair there will be a host of guests, stalls, advice and spectacular plants on view and you will be able to purchase everything from the Pseuderanthemum alata “Chocolate Plant” to a Knautia ‘ T hu nder a nd Lightning’ Plant.

Let’s hope there is no thunder on the weather forecast for Sunday 12 May as a huge range of stalls take up residence in Russborough for the day. To celebrate this very special event Russborough will also be opening our Rhodendron Garden for the first time since Sir Alfred shared his love of plants in the Rhodendron Garden and who opened Russborough as a visitor center in 1978. Sir Alfred has a huge variety of beautiful images from across the globe from his travels in the 1920s. Some of these beautiful images can be seen in our unique 3D basement exhibition well worth viewing on the day. With home baked chocolate cookies available in the café and chocolate plants available on the plant stalls we think that Russborough will have a little paradise to offer us all next May! www.russborough.ie

RDS Main Hall (Halls 1 & 2), Ballsbridge, Dublin 4 24/25 November 2012 OPENING TIMES: Saturday 24th: 10am to 5pm, Sunday 25th: 11am to 5pm

Official

e u g o l a t a Show C

COMPILED

BY:

062 61991 www.campioninsurance.ie We are delighted to be the chief sponsors of the Campion Insurance Coach and Bus Show for 2012.

We can provide insurance for all your transport vehicle needs including car, van, coach, bus, vintage and Ňeets.

We also specialize in home, business, life, and pension cover.

Call us today to speak to one of our dedicated experts on any of your insurance needs.

Dermot Cronin Motors Ltd Shannon Buildings, Mallow Rd, Cork City.

Sole Distributor for VANHOOL TX Integral Coaches for Ireland

Ideal For Any Celebration!

Perfect for large or small groups celebrating birthdays, christenings, communions, conďŹ rmations, retirement parties, anniversaries and weddings for up to 150 people.

We also cater for tour groups visiting this scenic and historical area.

VANHOOL Sales, Service & Parts D.O.E. Test Centre

CALL US NOW ON 041 983 7383 Newtown, Monasterboice, Co. Louth T: 041 983 7383 E: mbinn@eircom.net

www.monasterboice-inn.ie

FREE

Contact Dermot or Niall on

Tel: + 353 21 4309090 / 4309216 Email: info@croninmotors.com www.dcroninmotors.com

COACH & BUS SHOW 2012

Campion Insurance Coach & Bus Show 2012

W

ell here it is – the Coach & Bus Show 2012 in its seventh incarnation - now called the Campion Insurance Coach & Bus Show 2012 following very generous support from Jim Campion and his colleagues.

It has allowed us promote the show better than ever before, introduce a Coach Driver of the Year competition for the fi rst time, and expand our floor space since the last occasion. So although 2010 was a fi ne show, this year’s event will be even better.

Bridgestone Tyres also became our benefactor this year for the fi rst time, thus ensuring the Bridgestone Gala Ball will be the best yet. Doc Savage returns by popular demand courtesy of Taylor’s Th ree Rock. The wonderful magician Dan O’Donoghue will enthrall guests, and the

evening will crowned by dancing until late with top pop band Ocean’s Eight.

A special thanks is due to Willie Martin who has taken charge once again of the entire Show.

Minister for Transport & Tourism, Leo Varadkar T.D. will address the evening, and the CTTC – Coach Tourism & Transport Council is honoured and grateful for his presence. The Bridgestone Gala Ball takes place in the newly renovated Ballsbridge Hotel and is organised by the diligent and imaginative Cheryl Halpenny. Th is year, we have reduced the price of a pair of tickets by €25.

Let’s not forget why we organise this show every two years. It is to fund the work of the Coach Tourism & Transport Council – the voice of Ireland’s private bus and coach companies. With high fuel prices, restrictions on access to public transport markets, and unfavourable conditions for School Transport providers, the CTTC’s work is more important than ever before. Please drop by our stand in Hall 2 to fi nd out about joining.

The Coach Driver of the Year competition is being expertly organised by The Swilly Group of Donegal. Two-dozen drivers will compete for the Martin Guilfoyle Memorial Trophy that has been generously donated by Bernard Kavanagh & Sons Ltd in honour of their late, and widely respected, colleague.

We look forward to meeting you, Gerry Mullins Show Director www.cttc.ie

CAMPION INSURA NCE TITLE SPONSOR TO COACH & BUS SHOW 2012

T

he Campion Insurance Coach & Bus Show 2012 is Ireland’s largest passenger transport event, and the only trade show for the bus and coach industries on the island of Ireland. The Exhibition which has been running since 2000 moves to the RDS Main Hall on Merrion Road, a larger space than that used last time. It has also switched from a Friday/Saturday event to a Saturday/Sunday one, in order to ensure higher footfall.

There will be a Wi-Fi hotspot, provided courtesy of FleetConnect, at the CTTC Coffee area in Hall 2 at the Coach & Bus Show 2012.

NATIONAL TRA NSPORT MUSEUM STAND T16 Pictured is a 1967 Bedford VAS with a body built by CIÉ in Inchicore. It was the fi rst purpose-built school bus in the country. The second picture is a 1948 AEC Regent III. It has a Park Royal body and was operated by the Great Northen Railway (GNR).

The Director of Campion Insurance Coach & Bus Show 2012 Gerry Mullins welcomed Campion Insurance as title sponsor; “Th is year’s show will be the most innovative and interesting one to date with a rich diversity in the types of stands and exhibitors. Much of this is att ributable to the generous sponsorship of Campion Insurance, and we’re very grateful to them for this.”

Campion Insurance Chief Executive Jim Campion said: “Campion Insurance is already very committed to the coach and bus sectors and the opportunity to sponsor the Coach & Bus Show presented a way to solidify this position. We are happy to enhance our relationship with the CTTC, which is one we have enjoyed over many years.”

Other vehicles being displayed include: 1986 Leyland Tiger Vanhool, courtesy of James Carolan.

1985 Bedford Plaxton, courtesy of Paddy Carroll, Drogheda 1964 Volkswagon Minibus, courtesy of Axa Insurance 1960s Bedford Minibus, courtesy of John Halpenny 1959 Leyland Titan PD3, courtesy of Ed O’Neill 1975 Bristol 35 seater Plaxton Supreme; from Richard Barrett

Jim Campion and CTTC Chairman James McGinley at the launch to announce Campion Insurance sponsorship of the Coach & Bus Show.

Vehicles courtesy of the National Transport Museum

www.fleet.ie

FLEETBUS&COACH | Winter 2012

15

COACH & BUS SHOW 2012 - EXHIBITORS STAND S26 A.W. COACH & BUS SERVICES LTD. Contact Sales: Andrew Auld Tel: 045 858767

STAND S30 ADTEC AERAUTO LIMITED Contact: Kieran Mulvaney Tel: 046 9055126 Email: kieran.mulvany@adtecaerauto.net Established since 1987, Adtec Aerauto Ltd., is STAND S14 AIB FINANCE & LEASING Web: www.aib.ie/business Whether you’re a small-to-medium sized business, a farmer or a large company, AIB can offer an Asset Finance package to suit your STAND S36 AIR IMPACT LTD. Tel: Jerry Hogan on 086 812 5267 E-mail: jhogan@air-impact.ie Web: www.airimpact.ie

STAND S7 ALCOLOCK UK Tel: 00447891667047 Email: rwthomas@alcolock.co.uk and rwthomas@acs-corp.com Alcohol Countermeasure Systems (ACS) is STAND S3 AMBER VALLEY DEVELOPMENTS Tel: 0044 116 240 2968 Email: sales@amber-valley.co.uk Web: www.amber-valley.co.uk Amber Valley Developments, based in STAND S5 ATT RACTIONS OF IRELAND Tel: 061 338588 Email: info@glancepromotions.ie Web: www.glancepromotions.ie STAND S8

Mobile: 087 2438887 Suppliers of W heel Trims and Accessories to the coach and bus industry. A.W. Coach & Bus Services Ltd., provide an on-line web service which lists

Irelands leading transmission re-manufacturer, offering new, service exchange units, cost of repair to customers own units and has an extensive range of spare parts.

Adtec Aerauto are the sole agents for ZF Truck & Bus transmissions, axles and steerings along with Allison and Eaton transmissions and

new and used coach sales for coach dealers and operators. is an agent for ZF Sachs and Lemforder products such as clutch, shock absorbers and steering components. Recently, Adtec Aerauto was appointed agents for PE chassis components.

needs. A number of fi nance packages have been developed with you, our business customers in mind. These consist of a range of practical and tax efficient ways in which our business customers can get the fi nance that best suits their needs. Minimum loan application of €5,000 required.

• Equipment Finance • Agri Finance • Plant Finance • Heavy Goods Vehicle Finance• Vehicle Finance • Insurance Premium Finance • Promptpay

Air Impact Ltd. is a premier supplier of pneumatic, industrial and automotive air tools, air compressors and garage equipment in Ireland. Since 1970 Air Impact Ltd. has supplied all areas of industry with a quality range of air tools, air compressors and garage equipment. Air Impact Ltd. provides air tool

solutions to all areas of industry in Ireland and the UK, including but not limited to Construction, Mining, Infrastructure, Manufacturing, Petrochemical, Automotive, Marine, and Agriculture.

an international group of companies with headquarters in Toronto, Canada serving a diverse marketplace for over 40 years. ACS is the leading manufacturer of alcohol interlocks and breath alcohol testers with a product line that has expanded to serve the automotive, industrial, law enforcement, public and personal safety markets. Its commitment to research

and quality has resulted in the development of products that set the bench mark for accuracy, function and reliability. International reach is supported globally through affi liate offices in Australia, Europe, Asia and the Americas.

Leicestershire, is the largest European manufacturer of reversing safety equipment.

Building on the success of its Ecolarm range, designed to be kind to the environment being partly made of recycled material and noise pollution friendly as a soft tone alarm, it has introduced a new, patent protected Alarmalight range. These provide audible and visual

warnings with LED lights, which are not synchronised with the message, but instead flash in a manner designed to attract maximum attention. It believes that the Alarmalight is the best solution for warning people of moving vehicles nearby.

Glance Promotions was founded in 1992.

Since then its entire focus has been on the development of products and services that work to deliver visitors on holiday to att ractions.

We offer Brochure Display & Distribution, Brochure Design, Visitor Guides, iPhone App,

Guide Maps & Information to Tourist Offices Nationwide.

Please contact your local AIB branch or visit www.aib.ie

Contact: Valerie Bagnall Glance Promotions

AXA IRELAND Tel: 01 4711647 Email: peter.o’connor@axa.ie Web: www.axa.ie

are important to us. It is the preferred insurer for members of PCBOA with extensive cover including open driving (aged 25-70 with a full licence) and up to 60% no claims discount. It also provides stand-alone employer and public liability insurance.

Customers can talk to them, make a claim or get breakdown assistance 24 hours a day.

AXA is Ireland’s largest motor insurer with 900,000 customers. Bus and coach insurance

AXA offers quality motor and home insurance on-line and through 43 branches nationwide.

Talk to Peter O’ Connor about bus and coach insurance on 087-2247937.

16

FLEETBUS&COACH | Winter 2012

www.fleet.ie

COACH & BUS SHOW 2012 - EXHIBITORS STAND S38 BALLYHOURA COUNTRY Tel: 063 91300 Web: www.ballyhouracounty.com Ballyhoura Country is located in North Cork & East Limerick, in the heart of the Golden

STAND L6A BARTONS TRA NSPORT/DAF DISTRIBUTORS IRELAND Contact: Bruce Archer Email: bca@ohm.ie Tel: 01 4034100

STAND L4 BRIAN NOONE LTD. Email: reception@noone.ie Web: www.noone.ie Tel: + 353 1 6286311 Brian Noone Ltd, with two generations of STAND S35 & S37 BRIDGESTONE TYRES Tel: +353 1 8410000 E-mail:ireland@bridgestone-eu.com Bridgestone is the largest tyre manufacturer in the world enjoying 16% share of the global

STAND L11 CARLYLE BUS & COACH LTD. Tel: 353 1899 1060 Email: sales@carlyle.ie Carlyle Bus & Coach Ltd is the leading parts and service solution provider for the bus and

STAND S31 & S33 CLARKE AUTO WASH LTD. Contact: Vincent Clarke on 087 2595519 Tel: 01 6233631 Web: www.itecosrl.com Clarke Auto Wash Ltd offers the complete

STAND S12 COACH GLAZING SERVICES Contact: Ennis McMurray Mobile: 00447500 446181 Tel: 028 918 28901/20500 Freephone ROI: 1800 937 440 NI: 0800 954 1934 www.fleet.ie

Vale and nestled between the Ballyhoura and Galtee Mountains. Located here is an unspoilt rural Ireland at its very best and an outdoor paradise for all ages. With over 1500km of National Looped Walks & Way Marked Ways, there are beautiful walks to suit all levels, and it is also home to Irelands centre of excellence for Mountain Bike Trails.

Steeped in educational, historical, archaeological and cultural gems, daily or overnight tours can be specifically tailored to suit needs. It provides a full Tour Management and Itinerary Service at no charge.

At the Campion Insurance Coach & Bus Show 2012, DAF Distributors Ireland will premiere through its sales agents Bartons Transport (Maynooth), a new VDL Berkhof Axial with a DAF/PACCAR Euro 5 engine and ZF automatic gearbox. This unit is 12 metres in length providing 53 seats plus driver and courier.

VDL Berkhof is a Netherlands-based bus and coach builder, founded in 1970 and 7 years later, the company changed its name from Berkhof Groep into Berkhof Jonckheere Groep. In 1998 the whole company was bought by the VDL Groep.

experience in the industry, premieres a new model to the Midi-Coach market. The fully coach built Turas 800 is the fi rst of a range of new models, based on the Mercedes-Benz Vario chassis. Taking into account detailed customer feedback, the Turas 800 is a stylish high specification model aimed at setting new standards in build quality and noise level

reduction to provide an enhanced passenger experience.

Available with up to 33 seats including air conditioning, double glazing and class leading luggage space, the Turas 800 is a coach without compromise.

market. In Ireland, the brand enjoys leading positions in a number of sectors including truck, bus, car and earthmoving and construction tyres through its strong and long standing relationships with trade customers. Bridgestone is delighted to be a part of the Campion Insurance Coach & Bus Show 2012 and will be demonstrating a number of ground breaking advancements at the

show including, the Bridgestone T2i fleet vehicle inspection system and its ECOPI A low rolling resistance tyres.

coach industry, delivering parts to operators throughout the UK, Ireland, Europe and worldwide.

Its stand will showcase a wide variety of parts and accessories from Carlyle’s vast range including door parts, body fittings, wipers, seating, lighting, electrical items, alarms, glass, mirrors,

GR P a nd Aluminum panels and much more.

Carlyle is pleased to announce that some of its top suppliers will be showcasing their work at the Show this year with dedicated parts panels.

range of vehicle washing equipment. For the large bus operator it can supply the Christ C5000 Magnum three brush rollover bus wash.

The medium sized fleet is well catered by the Iteco D500 single brush engine driven wash, with on-board water tank and can wash a bus in under 5 minutes! Th is is a cost effective means of cleaning a medium sized fleet without the expense of extensive ground works. A

complete range of Nilfisk Alto high-pressure cleaners and vacuum cleaners is also offered, coupled with 20 years experience in the vehicle wash business and nationwide service support to maintain all equipment sold.

Email: ennis.mcmurray@coachglazingservices.com Coach Glazing Services is Ireland’s only glass and windscreen installation service totally dedicated to the Bus and Coach sector and as such, delivers a truly specialised customer service. A large range of glass is stocked but individual customer requirements for particular fleet and vehicle specifications can be supplied, while back-up from a robust supply chain

ensures minimum vehicle down time (VOR).

It also offers an Identification and Supply Only service if required.

All major insurance companies are covered and Coach Glazing Services will deal with your insurance company, process your claim, handle all documentation and make all necessary contact with your insurance company.

FLEETBUS&COACH | Winter 2012

17

COACH & BUS SHOW 2012 - EXHIBITORS STAND S32

to transport operators and hauliers in Ireland and UK. With highly qualified personnel, 10,000 sq.ft . workshop, industrial ovens and its own paint mixing systems and graphics and signage dept Coyle’s are proud to be one of the few companies in Ireland offering this ‘complete’ on-site service. Fully licensed and compliant with VOC Regulations, it is located

with easy access off the main N2 road at Emyvale, County Monaghan.

CTTC – COACH TOURISM & TRA NSPORT COUNCIL Contact: Gerry Mullins 086 0209727 Email: gerry@cttc.ie Web: www.cttc.ie

tourism, from day tours to extended touring, and private hire. Increasingly, members are also engaged in scheduled services. Members have been at the cutt ing edge in the transformation of inter-urban and local public transport by road over the last quarter of a century. Many provide School Transport services.

The CTTC has approximately 65 member companies from all over the Republic of Ireland.

Members are engaged in many aspects of

CTTC members operate upwards of 1,000 coaches and buses and employ close to 1,750 people throughout the country. The CTTC

prov ides representation and leadership not only for members, but also for the wider private coach and bus operator community. New members are welcome and seek to become a uniying and strong voice for all family-owned private coach and bus operators in Ireland.

STAND S20 & S22

Components Ltd.,) based in Cork offers an overnight delivery service for all Bus and Coach spare parts. The company has been serving the Bus and Coach market for more than 20 years, offering Original Equipment (OE) quality parts at aftermarket prices to ensure that your maintenance costs remain low and that your fleet stays on the road for longer.

Representatives from CVC Ltd., will be available on Stands S21 & S22 to explain further.

and with over forty year’s experience in the business it carries out everything from total refurbishments, interior and exterior, to the smallest repair.

complete interior retrims and full valets.

Dealgan Coachcraft is located at two sites in Dundalk at Litt le Mills and Mill Park, Knockbridge. Its customers include E.S.B, Bus Eireann, Iarnrod Eireann and many private hire bus companies.

COYLE COMPLETE LTD. Tel: +353 (0) 47 87986 Email: sales@coylecomplete.com Coyle Complete Ltd provide a high quality cost effective, crash repair and paintwork service HALL 2

COMMERCIAL VEHICLE COMPONENTS LTD. Tel: 021 4303 003 Email: info@cvc.ie CVC Limited, (Commmercial Vehicle STAND S25 DEALGAN COACHCRA FT Tel: 042 9334784 Email: dealgancoachcraft@hotmail.com Dealgan Coachcraft Dundalk, established in 1968 (formally Farrell’s coachworks) is a family run business. Dedicated to quality and service, situated near J16 on the M1 motorway, STAND L8 DERMOT CRONIN MOTORS LTD. Tel: (021) 4309090 E-mail: info@dcroninmotors.com Dermot Cronin Motors in Cork has a long association with Van Hool, one of the largest coach manufacturers in Europe. With over 30 years of STAND S39 DYNAMIC COACH GLAZING PAUL: Tel/Fax: 00442879549630 Mobile: 00447762288163 Email: paul@dynamicbusandcoachglazing.com EAMON: Tel/Fax: 00442830252898 Mobile: 00447850646280 STAND L3 EVM LTD. Tel: +353 (0)5793 32699 Email: info@evm.ie Tel: 0044845 520 5160 Email: info@evmdirect.co.uk EVM Ltd will be exhibiting a range of Mercedes18

FLEETBUS&COACH | Winter 2012

It has extensive experience in accident repairs, and is a specialist in fibre glass repairs with new panels manufactured to specific requirements.

The company also supplies and manufactures seat components and if required can undertake

On display at the RDS is a TX16 Alicron 13.05m luxury touring coach, powered by PACCAR PR265 engine coupled with ZF Ecolife 6AP transmission. It features 53 GrandLuxe seats with

centre mounted WC. Also on the stand is a TDX21 Altano 14.4m interdeck coach, powered by PACCAR MX375 engine with ZF Astronic transmission, featuring 68 seats plus N/S WC. There is also access on the lower deck for wheelchair passengers.

Dynamic Bus and Coach Glazing is a company formed by two of Ireland’s most experienced coach and bus glaziers. The team at Dynamic fully understand the operational needs of customers and can react accordingly. It provides at no extra charge a full mobile service throughout Ireland with a prompt , efficient and professional service gauranteed.

Only EU approved primers and sealers are used to ensure customers requested glass is installed to manufacturer's specification. After the repair the bus/coach is fully vacuumed to remove broken glass to ensure driver and passenger safety. Dynamic direct bill most insurance companies for the client’s convenience. Free fleet inspections carried out.

Benz Mini-Coaches based on the multi-award winning Sprinter chassis. From the EVM Shutt le model with 16 seats that has an entry price of €55,500 to the Classic model with 22 seats entering the market at €65,000, EVM offers a broad range at the right price.

and X-Clusive VIP models. The EVM Team will be on hand over the two days to welcome you and discuss any requirements you may have for Mercedes-Benz Mini-Coaches in the future.

experience in operating and selling the Belgian brand, Cronin’s are the sole distributors for the new TX range of luxury coaches in Ireland. An extensive range of Van Hool parts are stocked.

Also on exhibit at the Show will be its Elegance – Avantgarde and Award winning X-Clusive

www.fleet.ie

COACH & BUS SHOW 2012 - EXHIBITORS STAND L6B EVOBUS UK LTD. Tel: 0044 2476626067 www.evobus.co.uk This year at the Campion Insurance Coach & Bus Show, EvoBus Ltd, the Mercedes-Benz coach/ STAND S24 FLEETCONNECT Tel: + 353 1 8991070 www.fleetconnect.ie FleetConnect, established in 2008 is a leading provider of in-vehicle systems for fast broadband access, delivering passenger WiFi and GPS STAND S19 GOGAN INSURA NCES LTD., T/A GOGANS Tel: 01 2990299 E-mail: info@gogans.ie Website: www.gogans.ie Gogans are Specialist Brokers for Bus Operators for over 20 years and provides competitive packages such as the following:STAND S10 KILKENNY TOURISM Tel: +353 56 7751500 Email: kilkenny@failteireland.ie Web: www.discoverireland.ie/kilkenny Kilkenny Tourism is responsible for the marketing and promotion of Kilkenny City STAND L10 KING LONG Tel: 00447827894456 / Email: paul@kinglonguk.com Web: www.kinglonguk.com

bus sales distributor is proud to exhibit one of the most successful touring coaches on Europe’s roads - the Tourismo. The contemporary and functional design houses economical and clean Euro 5 engines developing between 260kW and 315kW, whilst the Mercedes-Benz BlueTec® diesel technology ensures optimum efficiency.

The combination of this along with outstanding

comfort, refinement and class-leading safety standards delivers a vehicle, which is efficient to run and offers a superb touring experience for passengers.

vehicle tracking, as well as the connectivity to enable live CCTV and e-ticketing, with a specific focus on public transport.

enable live CCTV and e-ticketing.

The company has already established itself as the leading provider of industrial-grade in-vehicle systems for fast broadband access, delivering passengers WiFi (free internet access) and GPS vehicle tracking - as well as connectivity to

Customers include Irish Rail, Bus Eireann, Translink, Aircoach, Matt hews Coaches, Go Bus and PaddyWagon.

• • •

•

• • • •

Bus Insurance Employers & Public Liability Insurance Personal Accident for Proprietors & Drivers Solicitors & Barristers Fees for any aspect of the business Income Protection for Owners & Drivers Life Assurance for Proprietor, Family & Employees Personal & Other Business Insurances for Proprietor & family

and County. Located in Ireland’s sunny SouthEast, near key ferry ports and Airports and less than 90 minutes’ drive from Dublin, medieval Kilkenny is Internationally renowned as the cultural and heritage capital of Ireland.

Kilkenny blends meandering medieval Streets and stunning natural scenery into a unique tourism experience that offers something

LILLIS O’DONNELL FORD Tel: 01 4036900 Email: info@lod.ie Web: www.lod.ie Lillis O’Donnell Ford is located at the Red STAND L9 MOSELEY DISTRIBUTORS LTD. Tel: 0044 1236 750501 Email: www.moseleydistributors.co.uk Moseley in the South Ltd. Tel: 0044 1823 653000 Email: www.moseleysouth.co.uk Moseley Distributors and Moseley in the www.fleet.ie

As well as its extremely competitive premiums Gogan Insurances provides a very personal and efficient service for all clients.

for everyone.

Go to www. visitkilkenny. ie to fi nd out more about K ilkenny. A warm and friendly welcome awaits!

2000, and has exported to over 86 countries and regions and established its franchised dealers and service agencies in over 50 countries and regions, making King Long the China bus manufacturer with the largest overseas market, most export target countries and most various products.

More importantly, King Long is doing well in European market. Data shows that King Long has exported 2500 buses to 12 EU countries including Ireland, leading all other China bus manufacturers.

Cow Interchange, Exit 9 off the M50 on the N7, Dublin. It is the Ford Approved Main Dealer for the complete range of Ford ‘Go Further’ vehicles from passenger cars, light commercials and minibuses. The Ford mini-buses available from Lillis O’ Donnell to order include the Tourneo Custom 8-seater, the Tourneo Custom Kombi 9-seater and the tried and trusted 14 & 17-seater Ford

Transit buses.

South will exhibit the new Van Hool TX16 MAN-powered Alicron alongside the VDL Futura ll. Both vehicles are built to Moseley Distributors stock order requirements which includes 53 and 57 seats on two axles with full executive specification.

Show.

King Long started its overseas business from STAND L2

•

Discounts for Motor Insurance & Household Insurance for employees & Proprietors Health Insurance

A selection of used coaches for sale including descriptive photographs of others will be available on the stand from staff during the

With further new models to come the product range in the next year or two has never been better.

Long established in the business, the Moseley Companies offer a full support network for parts, service, accident repairs and refurbishment through three locations in the UK.

FLEETBUS&COACH | Winter 2012 19

Campion Insurance Coach & Coach & Bus Show Stands

Tourism Village Stands

Vintage Stands

Driver of the Year Competition

L5 UNVI, S.A.

B

RSA Rollover Simulator S36 S38

HALL 2

S35 S37

L

L11 Carlyle Bus & Coach Ltd

S19 S20

S27 S28

L10 Kinglong

En

S21 S22

S29 S30

S15

L7B Westward Scania

S14

CTTC Social Area

S13

L7A Volvo Bus UK Ltd

T37 T38

T41 T42

T45 T46

T39 T40

T43 T44

T47 T48

T57 T58

T59 T60

T31 T32

Tourism Vi

L9 Moseley

S31 S32

S11

S25 S26

T7 T8

T13 T14

T3 T4

T9 T10

T15 T16

T5 T6

T11 T12

T17 T18

T71 T72

T75 T76

S10

L6A Bartons Transport / DAF Distributors

S23 S24 L8 Dermot Cronin Motors / Van Hool

S12

L6B EvoBus UK Ltd

S33 S34

T1 T2

S9

T73 T74

T61 T62 T63

T64 T65 T66 T67

V d Be M

T77 T78

T68 T69 T70 S1 S39 S3

EXHIBITORS HALL 2

S23

Steinbruckner Ireland

T61

Sika Ireland

L6A

Bartons Transport / DAF Distributors

S24

FleetConnect

T62

Paul Kane Van, Truck and Bus Parts

L6B

EvoBus UK Ltd.

S25

Dealgan Coach Craft

T63

FTA Ireland Ltd

L7A

Volvo Bus UK & Ireland

S26

A.W Coach & Bus Services Ltd

T64

SHS Sales and Marketing

L7B

Westward Scania

S27 - S30

Adtec Aerauto Ltd.

T65 / 66

C&B Glazing

L8

Dermot Cronin Motors / Van Hool

S31 / 33

h

T67

Barnaville Print

L9

Moseley

S32

Coyle Complete

T68

Aura Internet Services

L10

Kinglong

S34

Tyrecare Ltd

L11

Carlyle Bus & Caoch Ltd.

20

FLEETBUS&COACH | Winter 2012

T69

WSC

T70

WSC

www.fleet.ie

& Bus Show 2012 Floor Plan EXHIBITORS HALL 1

L4 Brian Noone Limited

L3 EVM Ltd

HALL 1 Seminar Area

Campion Insurance Lounge Bar, Coffee & Entertainment

T45 T46

T47 T48

T31 T32

T49 T50

T51 T52

T33 T34

L2 Ford (Lillis O'Donnell)

T53 T54

T19 T20

T55 T56

T35 T36

L1C Wrightbus

T25 T26

T15 T16

T21 T22

T27 T28

T17 T18

T23

T29 T30

V 1ford s d u Be inib M

S1 S3

S2 S4

L1B 1986 Leyland Tiger Van Hool L1A 1985 Bedford Plaxton LV2 1967 VAS School Bus

n V 2 ages sw ibu k l Vo Min

S5 S7

www.fleet.ie

1985 Bedford Plaxton

T20

The Thatched Cottage

L1B

1986 Leyland Tiger Van Hool

T21

Boyne Valley

L1C

Wrightbus

T22

Tayto Park

L1D

Taxi & Bus Conversions

T23

Belvedere Hotel

L2

(Ford) Lillis O'Donnell

T25

N. Tipperary Tourism Co. Ltd

L3

EVM Ltd.

T26

Hamlet Court Hotel

L4

Brian Noone Ltd.

T27

Butlers Chocolate Experience

L5

UNVI S.A.

T28

Clew Bay Bike Hire

S1

OPW

T29

Nuremore Hotel

S2

Bluetree

T30

Carlow Tourism

S3

Amber Valley Developments

T31

Kippure Lodge Ltd

S4

Tranzaura

T32

Taylors Three Rock

S5

Attractions of Ireland–Glance

T33

Muckross House, Gardens & Traditional Farms

S6 /S8

AXAIreland

T34

Talbot Hotel Group

S7

Alcolock UK

T35

Clarion Hotel Sligo

S9

Ardee Coach Trim

T36

National Wax Museum Plus

S10

Kilkenny Tourism

T37

Foynes Flying Boat Muserum

S11

Road Safety Authority

T38

Thomond Park Stadium

S12

Coach Glazing Services

L1D Taxi & Bus Conversions

ism Village T13 T14

L1A

LV1 1975 Bristol 35 Seater Plaxton Supreme

S8

T39

Cliffs of Moher

T40

University of Limerick Conference & Sports Campus

S14

AIB Finance & Leasing

T41

Select Hotels of Ireland

S15

Politecnica

T42

Dalkey Business Group

S19

Gogan Insurances Ltd

T43

Locke Bar

S20

Commercial Vehicle Components Ltd.

T44

Seafari Seal & Eagle Watching Cruises

S21

Synectics

T45

Tower Hoteland Leisure Centre

S22

Commercial Vehicle Components Ltd.

T46

House of Waterford Crystal

Hall 1

Campion Insurance

T47

Waterford Museum of Treasures

S36

Air Impact Ltd

T48

Four Seasons Hotel

S35 / S37

Bridgestone

T49

Avoca

S38

Ballyhoura Failte

T50

Dunboyne Castle Hotel & Spa

S39

Dynamic Bus and Coach Glazing

T51

Jacks's Coastguard Restaurant

T1

Erris Tourism

T52

Hodson Bay Group Hotels

T2

Titanic Experience Cobh

T53

Irish Greyhound Board

T3

Lough Derg

T54

Dan O' Hara Ltd

T4

UCC Campus Accommodation

T55

Aqua Restaurant

T5

Knock Shrine

T56

Monasterboice Inn Ltd

T6

Russborough

T57

Aillwee Cave / The Rock Shop

T7

Youghal Tourism

T58

ShannonFerry Group Limited

T8

National Museums N. Ireland

T59

Flynn Hotels

T9

Foxford Wollen Mills

T60

CityNorth Hotel

T10

N. Ireland Tourist Board

T71

Lady Gregory Hotel

T11

Leitrim Tourism

T72

Lough Key

T12

Titanic Belfast

T73

Best Western Hotels Ireland

T13

National Trust of Northern Ireland

T74

Harbour Queen Ferry

T14

Maldron Hotels & Partner Hotels

T75

Ardara

T15

Slieve Russell Hotel

T76

Cloudlink

T16

National Transport Museum

T77

Killarney Jaunting Cars Ltd

T17

Fermanagh Lakeland Tourism

T78

LBOA

T18

Carlton Hotel Group

V1

Bedford Minibus

T19

Crowne Plaza Dundalk

V2

Volkswagen Minibus

LV1

1967 VAS School Bus

LV2

1975 Bristol 35 S Plaxton Supreme

FLEETBUS&COACH | Winter 2012 21

COACH & BUS SHOW 2012 - EXHIBITORS STAND S15 POLITECNICA Contact: Paolo Grassett i Tel: +353 87 2285804 E-mail: politecnicaseats@eircom.net Website: www.politecnicaseats.eu STAND S11 ROAD SAFETY AUTHORITY (RSA) Tel: 096 25015 Email: info@rsa.ie Web: www.rsa.ie The Road Safety Authority (RSA) is a statutory body created by the Road Safety Authority Act 2006. The aim of the RSA is to save lives and

STAND S23

Italy-based high quality passenger seats producer, Politecnica seats are known and appreciated by Irish operators. The family owned company designs and manufacture resistant, comfortable, modern and elegant, Relax, Rally and Arco seats, offered by the best European manufacturers, and provides a great prevent injuries by reducing the number and severity of collisions on our roads.

The functions for which the RSA is responsible include driver testing and training, vehicle standards and certain enforcement functions, road safety promotion, driver education and road safety research.

These functions are assigned under four

STEINBRUCKNER IRELAND www.steinbruckner.de

philosophy is quality, reliability and value, and its products have an excellent reputation across Europe and Worldwide especially its Single Brush Units.

Steinbruckner Ireland is the sole agents for Ireland and the U.K. for the Steinbruckner Gmbh range of Commercial Vehicle Cleaning Equipment. Germany headquartered Steinbruckner GmbH is the largest independant manufactures in Europe. The Steinbruckner

Provided is a complete range of services from Planning to Installation. All equipment supplied has minimal service requirements and extended warranty periods. Steinbruckner Ireland supplies Wash Water Recycling Systems, Chemical Application systems, and many other ancillary

STAND S21

- Coach Tourism & Transport Council members.

At the Show, Synectics is focusing on the benefits of its innovative CCTV and telematics solutions for bus and coach operators.

SYNECTICS Tel: +44 (0) 1253 891 222 Web: www.synx.com

solution for mini, midi, and-full size coaches of various operational requirements.

Directorates which include Driver Testing and Licensing; Road Safety, Research and Driver Education; Enforcement and Vehicle Standards; and Corporate Services.

services to keep a ny size of fleet looking the best. Many of Ireland’s premier Transport suppliers currently use Steinbruckner products.

The combination of market leading “T” series CCTV DVRs, Genius driver training and journey management system and Synectics’ unique 3-Way Fleet Insurance Scheme is

designed to effectively protect the ‘bottom line’ by increasing passenger comfort and safety, eliminating fraudulent insurance claims and helping operators reduce insurance premiums and secure enhanced insurance terms.

TBC Conversion Ltd is a Tyrone based company specialising in vehicle conversion and the provision of wheelchair accessible vehicles across the Ireland.

Founded in 2005, the company comprises of 3 distinct divisions, TBC Mobility Conversions, TBC Specialist Conversions and Taxi and Bus Conversions. TBC Conversions Ltd was one of

the first companies to undertake ECWVTA (Full European Type Approval) for the VW Caddy Maxi Life and the VW Crafter Minibus range. So before deciding on a vehicle conversion, make sure you contact TBC Conversions Ltd.

TRA NZAURA Email: mike.price@tranzaura.com Website: www.tranzaura.com

Coach & Bus Show at the RDS on the 24th and 25th of November, where you will be able to view and use its award winning TranzTacho and TranzSafety soft ware solutions through live demonstrations.

all driver tachograph requirements and complete daily vehicle walk around checks electronically.

Tranzaura would like to welcome you to visit Stand S4 at this year’s Campion Insurance

See for yourself how Tranzaura's soft ware can help you reduce your risks of fi nes, manage

STAND S34 TYRECARE LTD. Tel: 049 4334486 Email: tyrecaresales@eircom.net Web: www.tyrecare.ie

top quality, professional automotive workshop equipment, tyre changing machines and air hydraulic jacks, Tyrecare Ltd will be representing Norbar, the world’s foremost manufacturer of torque control, tightening and measuring equipment.

The ‘One-Stop-Shop’ for the tyre company owner and fleet operator. Ireland’s premier supplier of

The Truktorque, pneumatic torque multiplier, a new lightweight high speed, low noise and vibration

The largest provider of CCTV for public service buses and coaches in Ireland, Synectics Mobile Systems has to date supplied systems to 18 CTTC STAND L1D TAXI & BUS CONVERSIONS LTD. Tel: 028 87722666 Web: www.taxiandbusconversions.co.uk Email: Gerard@tbc-conversions.co.uk

STAND S1

22

FLEETBUS&COACH | Winter 2012

free tool will be demonstrated on its stand. A torque wrench repair and calibration service is also available to new or existing customers. Tyrecare will also have a range of compressors, air tools, air hydraulic jacks, axle stands and tyre regroover’s on display. www.fleet.ie

COACH & BUS SHOW 2012 - EXHIBITORS/TOURISM VILLAGE STAND L5 UNVI BUS & COACH Tel: 043 33 22023 Email: info@centralbusandcoach.ie UNVI Bus & Coach has over 743 vehicles operating throughout Irish and UK roads. Its range on sale here includes:

STAND L7A VOLVO BUS UK & IRELAND Tel: 0044 1926 401777 Email: info@buses.uk@volvo.com Website: www.volvobus.co.uk Volvo Bus UK & Ireland is part of Volvo Group UK Ltd and the market company for Volvo Bus STAND L7B WESTWARD SCANIA Contact: Patrick Carton Mobile: 087 8205192 Tel: Office 071 9634561 Web: www.westwardscania.com Westward Scania is once again proud to support and be associated with another edition of STAND L1C THE WRIGHT GROUP Tel: 004428 25641212 Web: www.the-wright-group.com The Wright Group is one of Europe’s leading suppliers of accessible public transport vehicles.

Founded in 1946 the Wright Group based in SWILLY GROUP “The Swilly Group is Irelands leading Transport Training & Consultancy company. Established since 1975, we offer a full service from basic driving lessons in Cars, Buses & Trucks right through Advanced/ECO/Defensive driver

VEGA GT: Coach-built on Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, featuring styling att ributes of the bigger range and includes 16 seats with large rear luggage.

GTR: Mercedes-Benz Vario 818 based UNVI GTR showing with recently introduced 28 seat interior upgrades.

CLASSIC-RGT: With 29 seats and with courier seat, it has large luggage and side lockers featuring the enhanced GT trim upgrade.

Classic-R: Showcasing a 33 seat configuration, w it h A irconditioning, with many revisions will be shown for the fi rst time.

Touring GT: Although not on display. Details and images of the much revised model will be available.

& Coach products in Great Britain and Ireland.

The range of Volvo products includes: Volvo City bus from the newly introduced 7900H single deck hybrid, the versatile and cost effective B7RLE low entry single deck chassis, the high passenger capacity B9TL double deck through to the Volvo B5LH Hybrid double deck - MCV and Wrightbus are bodybuilding partners.

A refi ned new coach range offers Volvo chassis opt ions including the B7R, B9R, B11R and the B13R . Available on Caetano, VDL Jonckheere, Plaxton, Sunsundegui and Volvo 9700.

the CTTC Campion Insurance Coach & Bus Show 2012. Th is year on exhibit will be the prestigious Scania Irizar i6 in a 49 seat layout with centre door and sunken toilet. Variations of this model have been sold to customers for delivery next year in 49, 51, 53 & 63 seat layouts.

Also for delivery is a 12.4m Century with a 55 seat layout.

where you are most welcome to discuss our product range a nd S c a n i a Finance options in more detail.

Please come along to their stand at “L7B” Ballymena, pioneered low floor buses in the UK, and has earned a reputation for producing vehicles which are stylish, durable, high in quality and packed with innovative features.

The Wright Group has a comprehensive and versatile product range for every aspect and application of modern bus operation. Catering to a variety of client requirements. training to a full range of classroom based training & Health & Safety services. We are one of the largest providers of Driver CPC training.

All services are fully approved by such bodies as RSA, RoSPA, IAM, FETAC, HSA, CILT, RTITB and we are ISO9001 approved. We offer our services throughout Ireland and the UK.

The Wright Group offers midibuses, full size single deckers, two a nd t h r e e a x le double deckers and articulated vehicles.

More details are available on our website w w w. swillygroup.com or on LoCall 1890636363”

EXHIBITORS/TOURISM VILLAGE AILLWEE CAVE COMPANY LTD. STAND T57 Ballyvaughan Co. Clare Tel: 0657077036 Web: www.aillweecave.ie Contact: Barbara Faulkner

ARDARA TOURISM ASSOCIATION STAND T75 Nancys Bar, Front Street Ardara, Co. Donegal Tel: Jenny-0871250026 Email: jenny_mchugh@yahoo.co.uk Web: www.kennedyirishsweaters.com

www.fleet.ie

THE ROCK SHOP STAND T57

AQUA RESTAURA NT STAND T55

Liscannor Co. Clare Tel: 065 7081930 Web: www.therockshop.ie Contact: Adam Johnson

No.1 West Pier Howth, Co. Dublin Email: Dine@aqua.ie Web: www.aqua.ie Tel: 01 8320690

AURA INTERNET SERVICES LTD STAND T68

BARNAVILLE PRINT & GRA PHICS LTD STAND T67

40 Farney Street, Carrickmacross, Co. Monaghan.

Telephone: 042 9664833 Email: services@aura.ie Web: www.coachbookingsystems.com

Old Bridge St, Freshford, Co. Kilkenny Tel: 056 8832290 Fax: 056 8832299 Email: info@barnavilleprint.com Web: www.barnavilleprint.com Contacts: Emmet Barnaville/ John Barnaville FLEETBUS&COACH | Winter 2012 23

COACH & BUS SHOW 2012 - EXHIBITORS/TOURISM VILLAGE THE BELVEDERE HOTEL IRISH NIGHTS STAND T23

BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL STAND T73

BOYNE VALLEY TOURISM STAND T21

Great Denmark Street off Parnell Square, Dublin 1 Tel: +353 (0)1 873 7700 Email: irishnight@belvederehotel.ie Web: www.belvederehoteldublin.com

Unit 7, Citylink Business Park, Old Naas Road, Dublin 12 Phone: +353 1 4605100 Fax: +353 1 4604585 Email: sales@bestwestern.ie Web: www.bestwestern.ie

c/o Meath County Council County Hall, Railway Street Navan, Co. Meath 046 909 7061 Email: info@discoverboynevalley.ie Web: www.discoverireland.ie/boynevalley

BUTLERS CHOCOLATE EXPERIENCE STAND T27

COACH & BUS GLAZING STAND T65 & 66

Clonshaugh Business Park, Oscar Traynor Rd., Dublin 17 Tel: 01 67 10 599 Fax: 01 67 10 480 Email: experience@butlers.ie Contacts: Clare / Joanna

15 Carrickmeadow , Camlough Newry, Co. Down, BT 35 7LJ Contact Michael - Tel: (048) 30839168 Mobile: 00447771877573 Email: cbglazing@btinternet.com Web: www.cbglazingnewry.co.uk

CITYNORTH HOTEL STAND T60

CLARION HOTEL SLIGO STAND T35

Gormanston, Co. Meath Tel: 01 690 6666 Email: info@citynorthhotel.ie Web: www.citynorthhotel.ie

Clarion Road, Sligo Tel: 071 911 9000 Email: info@clarionhotelsligo.com Web: www.clarionhotelsligo.com

CLIFFS OF MOHER VISITOR EXPERIENCE STAND T39

CLOUDLINK STAND T76 James Street, Westport, Co. Mayo Tel: 098 25577 Email: info@cloudlink.ie Web: www. cloudlink.ie

Liscannor, Co. Clare Tel: +353 65 7086141 Email: info@cliff sofmoher.ie bookings@cliff sofmoher.ie Web: www.cliff sofmoher.ie

DALATA HOTEL GROUP LTD., - MALDRON HOTELS & PARTNER HOTELS STAND T14

DALKEY BUSINESS GROUP STAND T42 Dalkey Castle & Heritage Centre Dalkey, Co. Dublin Tel: 01 2858366 Fax: 01 2843141 Email: info@dalkeycastle.com Web: www.dalkeycastle.com

9 Leopardstown Office Park Burton Hall Avenue Sandyford Dublin 18 Tel: +353 1 2069403 Fax: +353 1 2069401 Mobile: +353 86 020 8757 Web: www.dalatahotelgroup.com

,

,

DUNBOYNE CASTLE HOTEL STAND T50

ERRIS BEO/ERRIS TOURISM STAND T1

Parkway House, Cloghran, Dublin Aiport. Co. Dublin Tel: 01 8667555 Email: reservations@carlton.ie Web: www.carlton.ie

CLEW BAY BIKE HIRE LTD. STAND T28 Distillery Road, Westport, Co. Mayo Tel: 098 24818 / 098 37675 Travis Mobile: 0857030177 Email: info@clewbayoutdoors.ie Web: www.clewbayoutdoors.ie

CROWNE PLAZA HOTEL DUNDALK STAND T19 Inner Relief Road, Dundalk, Co. Louth Tel:- 042 939 4900 Email: enquiries@crowneplazadundalk.ie Web: www.cpireland.crowneplaza.com

DANOHARA/CONNEMARA HERITAGE AND HISTORY CENTRE STAND T54 Lettershea, Clifden, Co. Galway 09521246,09521808 Email: danohara@eircom.net Web: www.connemaraheritage.com

FERMANAGH LAKELAND TOURISM STAND T9

Dunboyne Castle Hotel & Spa Maynooth Road, Dunboyne, Co. Meath Tel: 01 8013500 Email: info@dunboynecastlehotel.com Web: www.dunboynecastlehotel.com

Carne, Belmullet, Co. Mayo Tel: +353 (0)97 82292 Fax: +353 (0)97 81477 Mobile: 087 7414252 Email: info@errisbeo.ie Web: www.errisbeo.ie www.facebook.com/ErrisBeo htt p://twitter.com/#!/ERRISBEO

FLYNN HOTEL GROUP STAND T59

FLYNN HOTEL GROUP STAND T59

FLYNN HOTEL GROUP STAND T59

THE NEWPARK HOTEL with ESCAPE HEALTH CLUB & SPA Castlecomer Road, Kilkenny City Tel: +353(0) 56 776 0500 Email: reservations@newparkhotel.com

THE OLD GROUND HOTEL Ennis, Co. Clare Tel: +353(0) 65 682 8127 Email: reservations@oldgroundhotel.ie

THE IMPERIAL HOTEL with ESCAPE SALON & SPA Cork City Tel: +353(0) 21 427 4040 Email: reservations@imperialhotelcork.ie

FLYNN HOTEL GROUP STAND T59

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL CARLINGFORD STAND T48

THE PARK HOTEL & LEISURE CENTRE Dungarvan, Co. Waterford Tel: +353(0) 58 428 99 Email: reservations@parkhoteldungarvan.com

24

CARLTON HOTEL GROUP STAND T18

FLEETBUS&COACH | Winter 2012

The Liberties, Carlingford, Co.Louth Tel: 00353 42 93 73530 Email: sales@fshc.ie Web: www.4seasonshotelcarlingford.ie

Wellington Road, Enniskillen, Co. Fermanagh, BT74 7EH Tel: 0044 (0) 28 6634 6736 Email: info@fermanaghlakelands.com Web: www.fermanaghlakelands.com

FOXFORD WOOLLEN MILLS BELASA WEAVERS LTD. STAND T9 Foxford, Co. Mayo Tel: 00353 (0)94 9256104 Fax: 00353 (0)94 9256415 Email: info@foxfordwoollenmills.com Web: www.foxfordwoollenmills.com www.fleet.ie

COACH & BUS SHOW 2012 - EXHIBITORS/TOURISM VILLAGE FOYNES FLYING BOAT MUSEUM STAND T37

FTA IRELAND STAND T63

THE HAMLET COURT HOTEL STAND T26

Ara Ide, Foynes, Co. Limerick Tel: 00353 69 65416 Email: info@flyingboatmuseum.com Web: www.flyingboatmuseum.com

Office 5, Unit 104, Coolmine Business Park Blanchardstown, Dublin 15 Tel: 01 8220040 / 01 8220043 Web: www.ft ai.ie

Johnstownbridge, Enfield, Co. Meath Tel: 046 95 41200/ 9549326 Contact: Trish Gill - trish@thehamlet.ie Mobile: 087 6847369 Web: www.thehamlet.ie

HARBOUR QUEEN FERRY STAND T74

HOUSE OF WATERFORD CRYSTAL STAND T46

GALWAY BAY HOTEL STAND T52

Pier Office, Glengarriff, Co. Cork Tel: 02763116 or Mobile: 0872345861 Email: info@harbourqueenferry.com Web: www.harbourqueenferry.com

The Mall, Waterford City Tel: + 353 51 317000 Email:houseofwaterfordcrystal@wwrd.com Web: www.waterfordvisitorcentre.com

HODSON BAY HOTEL STAND T52

SHERATON ATHLONE HOTEL STAND T52

Athlone, Co. Westmeath +353 (0)90 644 2000 Email: info@hodsonbayhotel.com Web: www.hodsonbayhotel.com

Athlone, Co. Westmeath +353 (0)90 6451000 Email: info@sheratonathlonehotel.com Web: www.sheratonathlonehotel.com

Head Office, Greenpark, Dock Road, Limerick Representing: Dublin, Waterford, Cork, Tralee, Limerick, Galway, Mullingar, Newbridge, Dundalk & Lifford Tel: 1890 269 969 Email: sales@igb.ieWeb: www.igb.ie

JACKS’ COASTGUARD RESTAURA NT STAND T51

KILLARNEY JAUNTING CARS LTD. STAND T77

KIPPURE LODGE LTD. STAND T31

The Promenade, Salthill, Galway +353 (0)91 520 520 Email: info@galwaybayhotel.com Web: www.galwaybayhotel.com

IRISH GREYHOUND BOARD STAND T53

Cromane, Killorglin, Co. Kerry Tel: 066 976 9102 Email: info@jackscromane.com Web: www.jackscromane.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/jackscromane

Gilhuys 10 B Muckross Close, Muckross Road, Killarney, Co. Kerry Tel: +353 (0) 64 6633358 Fax: +353 (0)64 6633388 Email: info@killarneyjauntingcars.com Web: www.killarneyjauntingcars.com

Kippure Estate Manor Kilbride, Blessington Co. Wicklow Tel: 01 458 2889 Web: www.kippure.com

KNOCK SHRINE PILGRIMAGES STAND T5

LICENCE BUS OWNERS ASSOCIATION STAND 78

LEITRIM TOURISM STAND T11

Shrine Office Knock Co. Mayo Tel: +353 94 9388100 Email: patlavelle@knock-shrine.ie Web: www.knock-shrine.ie

THE LOCKE BAR & OYSTER HOUSE STAND T43

Blakes Cross, Lusk, Co. Dublin Tel: 086-8750640 / 01-8437505 E-Mail: fi ngalcoaches@gmail.com Web: www.licencebusownersassociation.com

The Old Barrel Store Carrick on Shannon Co. Leitrim 071 96 23274 Email: info@leitrimtourism.ie Web: www.enjoyleitrim.com

LOUGH KEY FOREST & ACTIVITY PARK

LOUGH DERG STAND T3

3 Georges Quay, Limerick Tel: 353-61-413733 Fax: 353-61-412796 Email: locke@eircom.net Web: www.lockebar.com

Pett igo Co.Donegal Tel: +353 719861518 Web: www.loughderg.org

STAND T72 Boyle, Co. Roscommon Tel: 071-9673122 Mobile: 087-1248422 Email: louise@loughkey.ie Web: www.loughkey.ie

MONASTERBOICE INN STAND T56

MUCKROSS HOUSE GARDENS & TRA DITIONAL FARMS STAND T33

NATIONAL MUSEUMS NORTHERN IRELAND STAND T8

Killarney, Co. Kerry Tel. 064 6631440 fax. 064 6670116 Email. info@muckross-house.ie Web. www.muckross-house.ie

Cultra, 153 Bangor Road Holywood, Co. Down, BT18 0EU Tel: 0845 608 0000 Email: info@nmni.com Web: www.nmni.com

NTH. TIPPERA RY TOURISM CO. LTD. STAND T25

NTH IRELAND TOURIST BOARD STAND T10

c/o Arlene White, Nenagh Heritage Centre The Governor’s House, Kickham Street Nenagh, Co. Tipperary Tel: 067 33850 Email: nenaghheritage@eircom.net Web: www.tipperary.com

Tourist Information Centre Suffolk Street, Dublin 2 Tel: 01-6057732 Fax: 01-6057725 Callsave: 1850 230 230 Web: www.discovernorthernireland.com E-mail: infodublin@nitb.com

Monasterboice, Drogheda, Co. Louth Tel: 041-9832989 Email: reservations@donegans.net Web: www.monasterboice-inn.ie

NATIONAL TRUST STAND T13 Tel: 028 9751 0721 Email: ni.customerenquiries@nationaltrust. org.uk Web: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ni

www.fleet.ie

FLEETBUS&COACH | Winter 2012 25

COACH & BUS SHOW 2012 - EXHIBITORS/TOURISM VILLAGE NUREMORE HOTEL STAND T29

VAN TRUCK & BUS PARTS STAND T62

RUSSBOROUGH STAND T6

Carrickmacross, Co. Monaghan Tel: 042 9661438 Email: info@nuremore.com Web: www.nuremore.com

Paul Kane, 40 Mousetown Road, Coalisland, Co. Tyrone BT71 4PJ. Tel: (028) 87747258

Russborough, Blessington, Co. Wicklow Tel: 353 - (0)45 865239 Email: info@russborough.ie Web: www.russborough.ie

SELECT HOTELS OF IRELAND STAND T41 Shannon Buildings Mallow Road, Cork City Tel: 021 439 1998 Fax: 021 439 1993 Email: info@selecthotelsireland.com Web: www.selecthotelsireland.com

SHANNONFERRY GROUP LIMITED STAND T58 Killimer, Kilrush, Co. Clare Tel: 065-9053124 Email: enquiries@shannonferries.com Web: www.shannonferries.com

SIKA IRELAND STAND T61

SLIEVE RUSSELL HOTEL GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB STAND T15

Sika House, Ballymun Industrial Estate Dublin 11 Tel : + 35312180102 Mobile: 0866012222 Email: fitzpatrick.david@ie.sika.com Web: www.sika.ie

Cranaghan, Ballyconnell, Co. Cavan Contact Slieve Russell Tel: 049 952 6444 or Email: enquiries@slieverussell.ie

TAYTO PARK STAND T22

THE LADY GREGORY HOTEL STAND T71

Kilbrew, Ashbourne, Co. Meath Tel: 01 835-1999 Web: www.taytopark.ie Twitter: @MrTaytoIreland

Ennis Road, Gort, Co. Galway Tel: 091 632333 Fax:091632332 Email: info@ladygregoryhotel.ie Web: www.ladygregoryhotel.ie

SHS SALES AND MARKETING STAND T64 Brand Shell Lubricants Unit Q1 Aerodrome Business Park, Rathcoole, Co. Dublin Tel: 01 4016200 Email: shell@shs-sales.ie Web: www.shs-shell.ie

TALBOT HOTEL GROUP STAND T34 c/o Stillorgan Park Hotel Stillorgan Road, Co. Dublin Tel: 01 200 1824 Email: info@stillorganpark.com Web: www.talbothotels.ie

THE THATCHED COTTAGE

Bar Restaurant & Banquet Room

STAND T20

Tel: 06731426/0871413104 Email: info@thethatchedcottage.ie Web: www.thethatchedcott age.ie

TITANIC BELFAST STAND T12

TITANIC EXPERIENCE COBH STAND T2

Thomond Park Stadium Old Cratloe Road, Limerick Tel: 061-421100 Eamil: events@thomondpark.ie Web: www.thomondpark.ie

1 Olympic Way, Queen’s Road Titanic Quarter Belfast, BT3 9EP Tel: 0044 28 90 766 386 Email: welcome@titanicbelfast.com Web: www.titanicbelfast.com

White Star Line Building, 20 Casement Square, Cobh, Co. Cork Tel: 021 4814412 Email: susie@titanicexperiencecobh.ie or gillen@titanicexperiencecobh.ie Web: www.titanicexperiencecobh.ie

TOWER HOTEL & LEISURE CENTRE STAND T45

UCC LTD CAMPUS ACCOMMODATION STAND T4

The Mall, Waterford City Tel: 051 862300 Fax: 051 870129 Email: reservations@thw.ie Web: www.TowerHotelWaterford.com

University Hall, Victoria Cross, Cork Tel: 021 4818451 Email: beds@ucc.ie Web: www.ucccampusaccommodation.com

THOMOND PARK STADIUM STAND T38

WATERFORD MUSEUM OF TREASURES STAND T47 The Viking Triangle , Waterford City Tel: 051 304 500 Email: emceneaney@waterfordcity.ie Web: www.waterfordtreasures.com

WORKSHOP SUPPLIES & COMPONENTS STAND T69 / T70 Clonloghan, New Market on Fergus Co. Clare Tel: 061 718 544 Fax: 061 719 892 Email: sales@wsc.ie Web: www.wsc.ie

UNIVERSITY OF LIMERICK CONFERENCE AND SPORTS CAMPUS STAND T40 University of Limerick, Limerick Tel: 00353 61 202064 Email: lisa.gibbons@ul.ie Web: www.conference.ul.ie

YOUGHAL TOURISM STAND T7 Youghal Tourist office Market Square, Youghal Co. Cork Tel: 024-92447 Email: info@youghalchamber.ie Web: www.youghal.ie

AVOCA STAND T49 - Avoca Head Office, Kilmacanogue, Bray, Co. Wicklow. Tel: 01 2746900 Email: info@ avoca.ie Web: www.avoca.ie CARLOW TOURISM STAND T30 - Ballon, Co. Carlow. Tel: 087 9822 135 Email: sales@altamontplants.com Web: www.altamontplants.com OFFICE OF PUBLIC WORKS STAND S1 - Jonathan Swift St, Trim, Co. Meath. LoCall: 1890 213 414 Email: info@opw.ie Web: www.opw.ie THE NATIONAL WAX MUSEUM PLUS STAND T36 - 4 Foster Place, Temple Bar, Dublin 2. Tel: (01) 671 8373 PRC PUBLICATIONS STAND S2 - PO Box 11788, Dublin 3. Web: htt p://prcpublications-com.webs.com

SEAFARI SEAL CRUISES STAND T44 - No 3 The Pier, Kenmare, Co. Kerry Tel: 087 2508803 Email: book@seafari.ie BLUE TREE SYSTEMS STAND S2 - 1 Galway Business Park, Dangan, Galway. Tel: 091 520053 Web: www.bluetreesystems.com TAYLOR'S THREE ROCK STAND T32 - Grange Road, Rathfarnham, Dublin 16. Tel: 01 4948094 Web: www.taylorsthreerock.ie 26

FLEETBUS&COACH | Winter 2012

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TEST

Bus Euro Test 2012 – Versailles, France

Irisbus Citelis Hybrid

VDL Citea LLE 120/223

I

Volvo 7900 Hybrid

n June of this year five City buses were assembled in the shadows of Versailles Palace, West of Paris to allow the International Bus of the Year Jury put them through their paces for Euro Bus Test 2012 and select the Bus of the Year 2013. Vice-Chairman of the Jury, David Reibenberg and Editor of French magazine ‘Bus + Coach Transport de Voyageurs’ co-ordinated the event, no mean task. Over four days the buses were put to the test on a particularly demanding route, for both driver and bus.

Mercedes-Benz Citaro 2 Euro 6

MAN Lion's City Hybrid

Traffic in Versailles is extremely heavy and very slow moving and to indicate this, it took almost one hour to complete the test route, which was only a distance of 15km.

The success of the event was down to the excellent organization

by David Reibenberg and will remain a fitting tribute to his vast contribution to the jury and his activities following his untimely death in September.

Irisbus Citelis Hybrid

W

ith Iveco owned Irisbus on record as saying its dream is to have a pure electric bus, so far over 200 hybrids are in operation. The Citelis is a striking looking vehicle and from my point of view was one of the best to drive. Although the mirrors

28 FLEETBUS&COACH | Winter 2012

were not well positioned it would not take much in design terms to improve them. While driving the retarder works automatically when the accelerator is lifted, with litt le use for the foot brake except when coming to a complete stop. One other criticism however is the low

windscreen, which may make it uncomfortable for taller drivers. From a passenger point of view the bus runs very smoothly.

TEST

MAN Lion's City Hybrid

D

riving a hybrid bus takes a little getting used to as the diesel/electric engine partnership cuts in and out. As a driver you can sometimes feel like a passenger having

little or no control over the change from electric power to diesel power. MAN has an innovative dashboard display system, which encourages the driver to get involved in the hybrid process.

For the test a red light was fitted on the bus so everybody would be aware when the bus was in electric mode. On the test route, which took over fift y minutes the bus averaged 23 minutes in electric mode. A lot of glass in the door panels improves visibility and reduces blind spots. MAN has a lot of experience of electric operations from its rail division and claims that the extra cost of hybrid will be recovered in five to seven years.

Mercedes-Benz Citaro 2 Euro 6

C

itaro is probably the most expensive City bus on the market but arguably the most popular. Mercedes-Benz points to its whole life cost efficiencies. There are 31,000 Citaro 1 generation models in service throughout Europe. Although available as a hybrid the bus

tested was not a diesel/electric hybrid. For the driver one of the first changes he or she will notice is the raised driving position and a change of direction for the door of the cab area. A driver will feel more secure in this new environment. Vision is excellent and although the entrance area looks

a little cluttered it works well. Three doors allow fast exit/entry. On the road the bus is powerful and responsive. Although the testing was done in the Summer, we had some very heavy rain; the wiper sweep on the Citaro does cover the entire windscreen. With extra insulation between the engine and saloon area there is a big reduction in noise in the bus. As with all Mercedes-Benz products safety is key, and ESP (Electronic Stability Control) is available as standard.

VDL Citea LLE 120-225

D

utch brand VDL has consistently produced a lightweight ‘no nonsense’ bus. Weighing in at almost three tonnes less than its competitors the Citea LLE also weighs in a lot lighter on the pricing scale.

Price quoted for the test bus was €200,000 but it can be bought for a reduced fee of €180,000.

Surely a fi nancial controller’s dream bus? One of the other advantages of the lightweight design is improved fuel consumption. Smaller

wheels than its competitors provides extra space inside. A wide entrance funnels into a slightly narrower aisle. From the driver’s seat, the ‘pilot’ is well positioned and the outward vision is good. Mirrors are well positioned although the driver’s side mirror is placed a litt le further back from the front of the bus than normal because of the curvature of the windscreen.

FLEETBUS&COACH | Winter 2012 29

TEST

Volvo 7900 Hybrid

V

olvo Bus is well established in the hybrid market with almost 800 in service and another 500 on order.

Volvo states that the hybrid is a changing

technology and has plans to develop a plug in type application which it expects will give a 60% reduction in fuel consumption when compared to a conventional diesel engined

bus. Driving the 7900 hybrid was, as you would expect a Volvo to be – excellent. However, the I-Shift transmission is not particularly suited to city driving, and a new generation of the highly acclaimed automated gearbox is in the pipeline and should be more appropriate to urban conditions. One feature that Volvo has perfected is the silent running at bus stops. The bus will remain in electric mode while parked and leaving a bus stop.

Euro Bus Test 2013 – Versailles, France Spec Check

Irisbus Hybrid

C i t e l i s M AN Lions City Mercedes-Benz Citaro 2 V DL Citea Hybrid Euro 6 120/225

LL E Volvo 7900 Hybrid

Length (mm)

11.990

11.980

12.135

11.980

12.084

Width

2.50m

2.50m

2.55m

2.5m

2.55m

GVW (tonnes)

19.950

18.000

18.000

14.440

19.000

Wheelbase Height

6120mm

5875mm

5900mm

6200mm

5945mm

Engine

Iveco Tractor 6 EEV Euro 6

MAN D0836 EEV Euro 5

OM936 Euro 6

Cummins ISB6 Euro 5

Volvo D5F215 EEV Euro 5

Capacity

5.9 litres

6.9 litres

7.7 litres

6.7 litres

4.8 litres

Power

350hp @ 2100rpm

250hp @ 2300rpm

299hp @ 1200-1700rpm

225hp @ 2500rpm

216hp @ 2200rpm

Torque

1200Nm @ 1050-1650rpm

1000Nm @ 1300-1750rpm

1200Nm @ 1200-1600rpm

850Nm @ 1500rpm

800Nm @ 1200-1700rpm

Electric Power

120-175kW

150kW

n/a

n/a

161kW

Transmission

ZF (hybrid drive)

ZF (hybrid drive)

ZF EcoLife 6- speed

Voith D854.35E

Volvo AT I-Shift

Seating Capacity

99+26 standees

77+28 standees

96+31 standees

80+40 standees

102 (33 seated)

Brakes

Discs ABS

Discs ABS, EBS & ASR

Discs ABS, EBS, ASR + ESP

Discs ABS, EBS & ASR

Discs EBS & ABS

Suspension

Full air

Full air

Full air

Full air

Full air

Tyres

275/70 R22.5

275/70 R22.5

275/70 R22.5

275/70 R22.5

275/70 R22.5

Acceleration 0-60kp/h 16.3s

18.8s

13.0s

16.4s

24.6s

Braking Distance 0-60kp/h

26.1m

24.9m

24.1m

23.5m

23.9m

Interior Noise Levels

56.5dBa

60.0 dBa

53.0 dBa

56.5 dBa

53.2 dBa

OBITUARY On the 23 September 2012 David Reibenberg, organizer of the Euro Bus Test in Versailles died of a heart att ack. David was the Vice-Chairman of the International Bus & Coach of the Year Jury and Editor of the French Bus + Coach Magazine ‘Bus + Car Transport Voyageurs’. He was a good colleague for the past 10 years, and we all miss him. He liked a drop of Irish whiskey as a nightcap and always hoped to visit some of our Distilleries one day. Alas it was not be.

David was 37 and is survived by his widow Delphine and sons Sarn and Ari. May he Rest in Peace. Amen. SM 30 FLEETBUS&COACH | Winter 2012

Text: Sean Murtagh - sean@fleet.ie

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REVIEW 1

IAA Commercials Vehicle

Sean Murtagh, Editor Fleet Bus & Coach and Irish representative on the International Bus of the Year Jury congratulates Hartmut Scheck, Head of Daimler Buses on the Mercedes-Benz Citaro 2 winning the title for 2013

DAIMLER - MERCEDES-BENZ For Daimler which markets Mercedes-Benz and Setra buses and coaches, Hanover is its home event. The IAA is so important to the brand, that it takes two of the big Exhibition Halls to demonstrate all of its models. Th is year it exhibited over 70 vehicles. Centre stage was the award winning International Bus of the Year 2013 - the Mercedes-Benz Citaro 2.

DAIMLER - SETRA Hanover witnessed the launch of the new-look Setra Comfort Class 500.

Th ree coaches from the new generation were exhibited. The revised and sleeker design with lightweight construction att racted a lot of interest from both the Press and visitors alike. It is hoped that these vehicles will be available as a right hand drive option but no decision has yet been made.

KING LONG Chinese brand King Long is a manufacturer of coaches since 1988 and has produced over 250,000 units in the past 25 years. In 2000 the company expanded beyond Asia and is now present in all European markets. Using extensive R+D facilities it has developed an extensive range of hybrid and all-electric City buses.

MAN MAN has upgraded the Lion's City bus range. In a change to the Lion symbol on the grille, the brand logo is more pronounced. With a minimum reduction of 60kg on all of the Lion's range, operators can avail of the Hybrid model (Serial hybrid) or Natural Gas (CNG) Technology. MAN claims a 30% fuel savings over the equivalent Diesel rivals. It is not clear yet what variants will be available as right hand drive.

OTOKA R Otokar is one of the leading Turkish bus manufacturers. Employing 1700 people the company has five dealers in Germany and recently opened a European Headquarters in France. One model the ‘Kent’ has been developed as a right hand drive and will be available for the UK and Irish market late next year.

32 FLEETBUS&COACH | Winter 2012

REVIEW 1

Show - Hanover, Germany

SCANIA Scania Citywide is a new comprehensive family of stylish low-floor and low-entry urban buses that incorporate the styling theme pioneered by the Scania Touring. The versatile Scania OmniExpress coach, is available in 3 heights and 12 lengths. The Scania Touring high-decker coach is available with 2 or 3 axles. The Scania Higer A30 is a new multi-purpose coach in the intercity range.

SOLARIS Polish manufacturer Solaris is fast becoming a trail blazer in the development of the all-electric bus. Currently it has 31 sales agents in Germany and is marketing coaches in 26 countries. While it has not committed to a right hand drive vehicle yet, it did confi rm that it is on its agenda. A 12m electric City Bus on trial by the manufacturer is achieving 126km per day.

TEMSA Temsa, the Turkish Manufacturer states that its home market and economy has stabilised and is very strong. While the company says the European market is challenging, there is steady growth in the Midi-Coach and City Bus market. To date, Temsa Coaches are available in 40 countries including Ireland.

VAN HOOL Founded in 1947 in Belgium the company has remained in family ownership since then. Having launched a new range of coaches with an all-new look, it displayed all of the new models at Hanover. The TX range has given a modern look to the traditional range. Van Hool also builds specialist trailers for the road transport industry.

VISEON VISEON Bus GmbH is a German bus manufacturer that specialises in the design, production and marketing of purpose-built and small-series buses.

Founded in July 2008, it took over the former NEOPLAN bus factory in Pilsting, Lower Bavaria. Recently, China Youngman Automobile Group Co., Ltd., acquired a majority stake in VISEON Bus GmbH.

VOLVO BUS With 800 Volvo hybrid coaches operating throughout Europe now, the Swedish company claims that fuel savings of up to 30% can be achieved.

For example, the Volvo 7900 Hybrid which is 500kg lighter than its Diesel counterpart, also allows seven more passengers. An articulated version of the 9700 will be launched in 2013.

Text & Photos: Sean Murtagh - sean@fleet.ie

Jarlath Sweeney - jarlath@fleet.ie

FLEETBUS&COACH | Winter 2012 33

REVIEW 11

FIAA - International Bus & Coach Trade Fair – Madrid, Spain

H

eld on a bi-ennial basis, the Spanish bus and coach industry staged its big exhibition in October this year. In spite of the difficulties in the Spanish economy there were 181 exhibitors, which included 80 from 16 different countries. One of the highlights of the four-day event was a special display to mark twenty years of the Show. 1992 was its fi rst year and there have been ten editions in the meantime.

Spanish coach operators are trying hard to survive the downturn in the economy. Average passenger numbers and demand has reduced by

19% since 2007 and fuel costs have increased by 65% since 2009. It is a sizable industry with over 3500 operators using a total of 60,000 vehicles (including City Buses). In the better years it is estimated that sales of new vehicles generated sales of â‚Ź490 million per year. Spanish operators believe that when a recovery comes in the market they will be ready to move with it. Last year recording 1.2 billion passenger movements, the industry claims to have the capacity to move 1.5 billion with very litt le increase in infrastructure requirements. It would be fair to say that in spite of difficult trading conditions at the moment there is a positive feeling about the future of the industry in Spain.

BEULAS New look Aura and Cygnus coaches were on view at the FIAA. One of the new models was an Aura based on a 15m Iveco chassis with 70 seats. A MAN chassis had a 14.6m Double Deck body with a seating capacity of 93.

IRISBUS Four new Dailys in Superman livery caused a bit of a stir on the Irisbus stand. Aimed purely at the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) market an 18m Crealis (Articulated) was displayed. On the coach side was a 12.8m Mageleys on a tri-axle chassis Euro 6 driveline.

IRIZAR

KING LONG

Local manufacturer Irizar launched the i3 coach at the Show. It is available on all chassis or as an integral using DAF PR equipment. Irizar exports over 80% of its production. On its stand it displayed a good variety of vehicles on different chassis including Volvo, Scania, MAN and DAF.

Having only recently established in the Spanish market, Chinese brand King Long is confident its products can have an instant impact in the new sales tables. On display was the XM06129Y coach, a City Bus (XMO612OC) and a 9.9m Midi Coach (XM06996Y).

34 FLEETBUS&COACH | Winter 2012

SETRA

Spanish manufacturer Noge has gone through turbulent times. Having spent a time in Administration it emerged with a new owner and a 50% reduction in staff numbers. Traditionally Noge was in the big bus market (12m/15m) but in response to customer demand it has a 9.5m option available. For sure Noge has found a market with sales of over 100 units this year.

UNVI

Four Setra models were on the stand including the newly launched Comfort Class 500. While the representatives at Setra could not confi rm defi nite orders they stated that the new coach is being well received by operators.

Another Spanish manufacturer UNVI has a very strong presence in the Irish market. In Madrid, the main focus of its presentation was an Aluminum Open Top Double Decker for city touring. Built using this component/ raw material, it is 5% lighter than a steel bus. UNVI will launch a new Touring GT Midicoach on a Mercedes-Benz 15 tonne Atego chassis before the end of the year.

Text & Photos: Sean Murtagh - sean@fleet.ie

MERCEDES-BENZ OTOKA R

Mercedes-Benz claims to be going grand in the Spanish market. Centre stage was Bus of the Year 2013 winner, the Citaro 2. Travego and Tourismo Coaches have always been popular with Spanish operators and the early option of Euro 6 is the marketplace is att racting a lot of attention.

Although only recently launched in the Spanish market Otokar sales are strong. With 30-40 new units per year the company believes it will increase this to 80 per year as it expands its sales network. One of its most popular vehicles is the Kent, a 12m Low Floor bus; there are seven of these vehicles in operation in Almeria alone.

SUNSUNDEGUI

NOGE

MAN displayed all-integral vehicles; because the Spanish market is dominated by local builders there are very few MAN complete vehicles on the road. MAN is however keen to push the complete bus model particularly with the European Whole Vehicle Type Approval programme now in being.

An updated version of the Sunsundegui Sidereal was launched in Madrid.

Named SC7 it has a newly designed front but retains the loop shape mirrors that build back into the body on the passenger side. Especially for the Show, an SC7 was bodied on a Volvo B13 6x2 chassis.

VDL

MAN

REVIEW 11

Dutch builder VDL has recently appointed a new distributor/dealer and hopes to fi rm up its footing in this particular market. Taking the limelight for the Eindhoven company was its award winning Futura coach on a DAF/PACCAR MX340.

FLEETBUS&COACH | Winter 2012 35

REVIEW 111

EURO BUS Expo 2012 – 1

M

ore than 9,200 industry professionals attended the three-day show held at the NEC at the start of November. The event was opened by UK Transport Minister, Norman Baker MP, who announced £20 million of Government money for the fourth tranche of Green Bus Funding. Among the manufacturers and suppliers using the show to announce orders was Alexander Dennis Ltd who announced that it has won orders worth £220 million for almost 1,000 vehicles to be delivered in the next 18 months.

1. ALEXANDER DENNIS/PLAXTON 2

Scottish manufacturer Alexander Dennis Limited (ADL) announced that it has won orders for almost 1,000 vehicles, worth £220 million, all of which will be delivered in the next 18 months. Among the vehicles on display was the first example of the biggest luxury coach ever built in Britain, the 75-seat 15m-long Plaxton Elitei , which was bound for Stagecoach who operates the megabus.com network. The carrying capacity of the Elitei – providing 23% more seats than a standard 15m vehicle – is achieved through a novel design that incorporates a full-length floor extending over the driver's compartment. There are 71 seats in this main deck, plus up to another four – and a wheelchair location - in the lower saloon. This provides roll-on access for wheelchair users and eliminates the need for a specialist lift.

2. ARRIVA

3

This Optare from Arriva is the UK’s only manufacturer of full-size electric buses and the 9.0 metre model on display can carry 28 seated passengers including three tip-ups in the wheelchair/buggy bay. It is accessible for people of all levels of mobility thanks to its kneeling front suspension and fold out wheelchair ramp. The Solo SR EV has a range of between 80 and 100 miles on a single six-hour overnight charge, costing as little as £6.40 Operating cost savings are estimated in excess of £8,000 per bus per year, compared to a diesel powered equivalent.

3. ENERGENICS EUROPE Energenics Europe was promoting its Envirox™ fuel combustion catalyst which it says is a scientifically and commercially proven diesel fuel additive which lowers fuel costs by reducing fuel consumption, with a corresponding reduction in greenhouse gas emissions (CO2) and other harmful exhaust emissions. The system improves the way fuel burns which helps fuel economy but also burns away deposits from the inside of the engine making it more efficient.

4. FOGMAKER INTERNATIONAL 4

The Swedish company manufactures high pressure water-mist fire suppression systems for engines. It is a fire fighting media installed in engine compartments with outstanding cooling performance. Detection and activation of the system takes place hydro-pneumatically causing a pressurised fire detector tube to burst if there is a fire. The drop in pressure activates the valve on the extinguisher.

5. IRIZAR Spanish manufacturer Irizar had two i6 coaches fitted with DAF motors on its stand. A third coach of the same model on a Scania chassis could be seen at the Swedish brand’s stand next door. The luxury coach is fitted with a host of features including; Electronic braking system, electronically controlled air suspension and stability control plus tyre pressure and temperature monitoring system. Adaptive Cruise Control is optional. Already well established in a number of European countries, Irizar is now actively promoting the brand in the UK Ireland.

6. MAN 5

Euro Bus Expo 2012 was the venue for the official hand-over of Arriva’s first of 21 EcoCity gas-engined buses from MAN Truck & Bus UK Ltd. The bus boasts potential operating cost savings of 30%, and with the ability to run on the UK’s fastgrowing network of Bio-gas; thereby reducing emissions to zero. A key part of the success has been MAN’s partnership with the Gas Bus Alliance who is setting up the gas infrastructure required for successful operation of the vehicles.

7. MERCEDES-BENZ The new Mercedes-Benz Citaro K made its UK debut at Euro Bus Expo 2012. The 10.6m, right-hand-drive version is powered by a Euro 6 compliant engine and has already been crowned ‘Bus of the Year 2013’ by the International jury, which includes Fleet’s Sean Murtagh. The new Citaro utilises Mercedes-Benz’s new BlueEfficiency engines, meeting the strict Euro 6 emission regulations two years before they come into force. Mercedes-Benz claims the bus is able to achieve fuel savings of between 3%-5%.

6

36 FLEETBUS&COACH | Winter 2012

7

8

REVIEW 111

NEC BIRMINGHAM 8. MINIS TO MIDIS Exhibiting in conjunction with Irish distributor Brian Noone Ltd, Minis to Midis had the new Turas 500 in pride of place. The hi-spec vehicle is destined for specialist tour operator “Paddywagon” and carries up to 29 people. Based on the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter it is packed with VIP features such as coach quality seats, air conditioning, double glazing, DVD screen and a large luggage boot.

16

9. OMNIBUS (UK) Omnibus, which specialises in the provision of planning and scheduling soft ware to the passenger transport industry, was actively promoting its latest OmniMAP system aimed at bus operators for planning, displaying and editing bus services and stop networks. OmniMAP allows users to create and edit routes simply and quickly using street level mapping. Distance and timings between bus stops can be calculated and bus-specific restrictions can be accommodated in automatic routing between points.

15

10. OMNIBUS TRA DING Dutch manufacturer Omnibus attracted a lot of attention with its convertible buses. The versions being promoted have an electrically operating "hard top" roof and are based on the Mercees-Benz Sprinter (20 seater Sunset Cabrio) and the Iveco Daily chassis, (32 seater Sunrise Cabrio). The redesigned Sunrise comes with an extra-large luggage compartment and is equipped with a roof-mounted air-conditioning unit, a DVD player with a flat screen, a 40-litre refrigerator, as well as back and side-adjustable seats with 3-point belts.

11. OSS GROUP OSS Group specialises in waste oil collection, oil recycling, hazardous waste collection, parts washers and environmental ancillary products. The parts washers operate with a revolutionary micro-refinery which cleans and recycles its solvent significantly improving cleaning performance while reducing solvent usage, waste and cost. Used solvent passes through a distillation process that removes dirty residue. This can be drained off once a week and the 75 litre solvent reservoir simply topped up when required.

14

12. SCANIA Scania exhibited a selection of vehicles from its UK bus and coach range, including its first Natural Gas-powered chassis to enter the UK. The K 270UB4x2 chassis showcased is the first of an order for 19 CNG-powered buses scheduled for delivery to a company in Reading next year. Developed jointly by Scania and Alexander Dennis Limited (ADL), these vehicles will be equipped with 40-seat ADL single deck bodywork.

13. VDL VDL Bus & Coach premiered its right-hand-drive range of the new Futura with different length variants. With sales now in excess of 500 coaches on the Continent, benefits include lower fuel consumption which is helped by a low net weight, longer maintenance intervals and structural steel elements made from stainless steel. Passenger comfort is to the forefront and the driver station is ergonomically designed for optimum visibility and accessibility to controls

13

14. VAN HOOL A TDX21 Altano double deck coach destined for Callinan Coaches in Galway took pride of place on the Van Hool stand.

Luxury features include a refrigerator, hot water drinking station, WiFi and 230V power sockets. Fitted with a DAF Euro5 engine, the vehicle can seat 65 on the upper deck with space for 2 couriers, 3 wheelchairs and the driver on the lower deck. Outswing cameras, navigation system and destination equipment are also included in the spec.

15. VOLVO BUS Launched at the NEC was Volvo’s new 7900H bus, the company’s first complete hybrid single deck for the UK and Ireland.

Visitors also saw the official unveiling of the new Volvo B11R exhibited in the new Jonckheere coach and the 13 metre Sunsundegui options, with an all new SC7 body. Equipped with the fuel efficient Volvo D11C 6 cylinder diesel engine, the B11R offers high power with less weight and more efficiency. A third specialised variant, a three axle interdecker was also displayed on the Plaxton stand.

12

16. WRIGHTBUS The Wrightbus StreetLite range has been further enhanced by the launch of the 11.5m StreetLite Max, which made its debut at Euro Bus Expo 2012. Originally introduced as a midi bus in lengths between 8.8m and 10.8m and with a seating capacity of up to 41 passengers, at 11.5m length and with the same width of 2445mm, StreetLite Max, built in Ballymena, delivers an impressive maximum seating capacity of 45 and an overall carrying capacity of 70.

9

Text & Photos: Joe O'Brien – joe@fleet.ie

10

11

FLEETBUS&COACH | Winter 2012 37

CONDUCTOR'S STAND

Significant reforms and operational changes to Public Transport on the Cards?

COMMERCIAL BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY

FOR YOU!

Back Seat Driver by Sean Murtagh - sean@fleet.ie

O

ver the past few years a veil has been lifted on the many inequalities that existed in our society. Some of us are still punch drunk from some of the revelations that have been emerged, such as, bad business practice, top ups on some Civil Servant's salaries, not to mention the senior banker’s pensions. The list is endless.

In the early part of the Summer, Transport M i n i ster L eo Varadkar, TD, enraged private bus operators by injecting money into the CIE Group of Companies to keep it solvent.

I was surprised that the political media let him off so lightly with this more than generous gesture.

When there is a whiff of a politician gett ing motoring expenses that may be slightly exaggerated it makes front-page news. In one interview Mr. Vardkar was asked why he had to inject so much money into the State owned transport company, he said he had no choice and that the banks had told him that they would not continue to support the company unless the shareholders were prepared to put in some capital.

In this case we the taxpayers are the shareholders. By the end of the Summer Minister Vardkar had taken a more stern position on the national transport provider.

Firstly it seems the €36 million promised has not been paid so far. However, from what the Minister has been saying it is likely to be paid over soon. It is possible that the Minister is using the payment as a bargaining chip for fi nancial reform. Secondly and more importantly, the Minister has made

some candid remarks about the future of public transport. Mr. Vardkar said that if the CIE Group of companies did not make significant reforms and operational changes the company would run out of money towards the end of 2013. So far the only visible reform is an application for a 5% fare increase to the National Transport Authority (NTA). Th is is on top of a 13% increase earlier in the year. It is difficult to see how an increase in fares could either be justified or make business sense.

At a time when nu mbers using buses and trains are reducing, fare increases are hardly the solution.

It does seem that the Government is taking a strong line with C.I.E. Quite obviously it has to because it simply does not have the money. So far this year €278 million has been paid.

A crisis like this may be exactly what is needed for the progressive leaders and managers within the various CIE companies to perform. Within Bus Éireann & Dublin Bus there are some highly qualified people.

As their boss, the Minister has struggled to keep his main transport companies in business. He will have to rely on strong and effective management. In the years to come operating buses and coaches will be much different than it is now, therefore this current crisis is the best opportunity that the management of Bus Éireann/Dublin Bus will ever get to prepare themselves for the future.

Fleet Bus & Coach - First with the news in the PSV industry - www.fleet.ie 38 FLEETBUS&COACH | Winter 2012

• • • •

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