Wednesday April 18, 2012 Issue 1032 | ÂŁ2.95 www.coachandbusweek.com
COACH:
Australian-owned OzBus forced to close its tour operations p8
PREVIEW:
CV Show – some of the key attractions at this year's event p30
Inside this week...
Minibus
BUS:
Stagecoach UK Bus MD Les Warneford plans 2013 retirement p6
MINIBUS:
Dortmund minibus plant visit and Sprinter range examined p48
megabus.com sleepers for European service p4
Cover.indd 1
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April 18, 2012 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 3
THIS WEEK
Coach & Bus Week is published by Rouncy Media, First Floor, 3 The Office Village, Cygnet Park, Forder Way, Hampton, Peterborough PE7 8GX Switchboard 01733 293240 Fax 0845 280 2927 Web www.coachandbusweek.com Distributed by COMAG
EDITORIAL Publisher Jonathan Taylor 01733 293240 jonathan.taylor@rouncymedia.co.uk Editor Gareth Evans 01733 293243 gareth.evans@rouncymedia.co.uk Technical & Minibus Editor Martin Cole 01733 293245, 07885 692144 martin.cole@rouncymedia.co.uk News Reporter James Day 01733 293244 james.day@rouncymedia.co.uk News Reporter Andrew Cream 01733 293482 andrew.cream@rouncymedia.co.uk Art Director Keith Simpson Contributors Tim Deakin, Richard Charnley, Gabriel Conway, Alan Payling
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Sleeper success?
A
s I write this most of you will be eating your evening meals on Monday, while I’ve just finished being interviewed on BBC Radio Scotland about the launch of Stagecoach Group’s Continental Megabus coach network. Being a press day I was sadly unable to be present in London, but I’ve been following the story with interest. While we’ve known and reported on the plans weeks ago, the significance of the event for our industry must not be lost. Stagecoach can help the express coaching sector and indeed, the coach industry as a whole to benefit from positive mainstream media coverage. It is after all, one of the big guns with the PR gurus and contacts to boot. I explained to my interviewer that while air travel has its place, travelling by coach beats the monotony of a sterile airport with little to see through a cramped ‘window’ once on board. For those of us who enjoy seeing where we’re going, the coach is a must.
While not wishing to urinate on Stagecoach’s fire, in the interest of balance I also pointed out National Express-owned Eurolines has reported growth on the London to Paris, Amsterdam and Brussels corridors. From a news perspective, the most significant part of Monday’s launch was the revelation Stagecoach intends to expand its coach sleeper service to the continental routes, which will truly break new ground. Is this indicative of the concept’s success? Can we expect further announcements soon? Only time will tell. Eager to experience it for myself, I hope to sample the current Megabus sleeper service in the weeks ahead with something of an Anglo-Scottish tour in the company of a couple of industry friends. Watch this space. I for one wish Stagecoach the best of luck in its Megabus venture – let’s hope Nat Ex continue to keep up the pace. That to me at least, makes for an interesting industry and market. Gareth Evans Editor
CONTENTS 4
14
36
The latest from across the coach and bus industry in the UK
6
CBW reader views on a range of current issues and events
16
An arty scene of a coach crossing a London bridge at sunset
BMC to offer UK gas bus, Les Warnerford to retire in 2013
8
The story behind t3 marketing, a new name for the industry
20
Minibuses at CV Show and extreme Unimog operation. Plus news
OzBus ceases trading, Leons of Stafford opens new facilities
A range of ticketing and cash handling products & services
News
Bus News
Coach News
Inbox
Supplier Profile Essential Guide
The Big Picture
39
Minibus
70
Last Stop
12
30
A lighthearted look at the industry. Plus Gareth’s Diary!
What’s happening across the country’s regions. Plus Events Diary
An overview of the UK’s largest transport industry trade show
All the latest people moves from across the industry
Regional News
Preview: CV Show
71
People
The opinions and views expressed by authors and contributors within Coach & Bus Week are not necessarily those of the Editor or its publisher Rouncy Media Ltd.
For all the latest industry news and information, register with us online at:
www.coachandbusweek.com www.coachandbusweek.com
Contents.indd 3
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4 | COACH & BUS WEEK | April 18, 2012
news
briefly A report from the Department for Transport (DfT) shows the number of licensed buses and coaches in Great Britain fell between 2010 and 2011, along with the number of licensed heavy goods vehicles. The statistics, derived from data held by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA), show this is the sixth successive year the number has fallen and there are now nearly 6% fewer buses (by tax class) than at the peak in 2005. The DfT believes the numbers of licensed heavy goods vehicles, buses and coaches tend to be more affected by fluctuations in the economy than any other vehicle type. The recent fall in the number of buses and coaches is mirrored by a reduction in vehicle miles driven by buses and coaches. The full report can be viewed at http://tinyurl.com/ ctn43h2 The 2012 London Marathon takes place on Sunday (April 22) with local road closures in effect during the day. The event takes place around Greenwich and central London. Roads will be closed in Greenwich and Woolwich from 0600hrs, in Whitehall from 0700hrs, in Southwark and Tower Bridge from 0730hrs and the Isle of Dogs and Shadwell areas from 0800hrs. Roads will reopen as the race clears an area. They should all reopen by 1900hrs. Visit http:// tinyurl.com/btfm544 for more information. Llanelli’s £1m bus station is being altered following complaints about town centre bus shelters which were installed in August as the first phase of the £25m East Gate development. Bus users complained of uncomfortable seating and rain getting into the shelters. Carmarthenshire Council says modifications will be carried out this month. It has been in discussion with developer Britannia Construction and has agreed the necessary modifications be paid for by the developer. A council spokesman said the cost of the work was included in the original £1m bill as the bus station was not yet completed, with the development currently coming in on budget. www.coachandbusweek.com
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Stagecoach launches new coach network to Continental Europe Tickets will cost as little as £1 or €1 for trips to Paris, Brussels, Amsterdam and Boulogne Stagecoach has launched its new low-cost coach network from the UK to Continental Europe. Passengers can now travel to Paris, Brussels, Amsterdam and Boulogne on the Group’s budget coach operator megabus.com, on daytime and overnight services from London Victoria Coach Station. There will also be a dedicated ParisBrussels-Amsterdam service. A new fleet of Plaxton-bodied Volvo B9 coaches allocated to Rugby depot, equipped with free Wi-Fi and toilets, will be used on the network. The cheapest tickets will be just £1 or €1 per journey (plus 50p/50c
booking fee). Sir Brian Souter, Stagecoach Group Chief Executive, said: “We launched megabus.com in Scotland nine years ago and it has already transformed inter-city travel in the UK and North America. With the rising cost of living, rocketing fuel prices and running a car becoming more and more expensive, everyone is looking to make their money go further. “For too long, people in many parts of Europe have been paying too much for their coach travel. Our new network offers families, students and tourists great value fares and high-quality coaches. These services will deliver a longoverdue shake-up to the over-priced European coach travel market.”
Sir Brian Souter launches the new service from the UK to the continent
RHA incensed at diesel profiteering The Road Haulage Association (RHA) has hit out at what it says is clear evidence of profiteering over diesel prices. “We have no doubt diesel prices at the forecourt have rocketed as a result of the uncertainty caused by the threat of
a tanker drivers’ strike,” said RHA Chief Executive Geoff Dunning. “Retailers have doubled their profit margin on diesel while the wholesale price of diesel has come down. None of this has been passed on to road users and, if anything, the price at the pump has gone up. “There is no justification for this excessive charging. Profit margins on diesel were reasonable but have doubled to around 7.4 pence a litre. “This aggressive pricing amounts to more than the Chancellor’s
The operator is also investigating the possibility of a sleepercoach service between the UK and Europe. It is currently working with Van Hool on a 15-metre concept vehicle, based on the Belgian manufacturer’s Astromega doubledecker coach, the same model Stagecoach uses on its popular Oxford Tube service. Current designs would see the sleepercoach fitted with 48 seats and tables for use during the daytime, which could be converted into 43 bunks on overnight services. megabus.com already operates a sleepercoach service between Glasgow and London seven nights a week, using specially-refurbished single-deck articulated coaches. Sir Brian added: “Our new routes to France, Belgium and the Netherlands have already been extremely popular. Based on our experience in the UK, we are also very excited about the potential for sleepercoach services across the Channel and look forward to continuing to develop our concept vehicle.” The new Stagecoach service will compete against National Expressowned Eurolines, which operates daily services from London Victoria to Paris, Amsterdam and Brussels. The firm said it attracted almost 60,000 additional passengers during 2011 with what it called “significant growth” on its Paris and Amsterdam routes. hugely unwelcome duty increase due on August 1, when fuel tax goes up by 3.02 pence/litre. “The predatory pricing by retailers is a severe blow to the economy and, of particular concern to the RHA and operators who don’t have bulk fuel supplies but make payments linked to forecourt prices.” He concluded, “If this goes on any longer, the RHA is considering referring forecourt pricing to the Office of Fair Trading.”
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April 18, 2012 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 5
“Current loopholes in TA legislation still permit vehicles to be registered as vans and then converted and registered under COIF – but I can’t see the manufacturers actually wanting to pursue this route.” Martin Cole Minibus Editor
Arriva open days Arriva Bus and Coach is opening the doors of its Lodge Garage headquarters in Cleckheaton for the renowned dealership’s spring open days next Wednesday and Thursday (April 25 and 26). Visitors can expect to see a wide range of new and used vehicles including the new look Temsa Safari HD and the Van Hool TX. They will also be able to meet and talk with Arriva’s team of experienced industry professionals. Sales manager Robert White informed CBW the firm’s new Managing Director, Steve Hodkinson, would be on hand to meet and greet customers both old and new. Hodkinson, who has taken over following the retirement of Bob Macleod, told CBW he had joined Arriva at a very exciting time: “The Open Days are the first to be held
Tributes to Centro Chairman Angus Adams
The Chairman of Centro, councillor Angus Adams, died suddenly on April 10, aged 67. Cllr Adams was taken ill at the home of his partner, Jennie. He leaves two daughters and three grandchildren. He had been Chairman of the Integrated Transport Authority
Minibus p39
here for a number of years and will give me a fantastic opportunity to get to know some of our key customers and business partners. “It’s already clear to me that our team here has built up some very strong and effective relationships over the years, helping us to deliver high quality products and highquality after-sales support to a very
wide range of customers.” “We’re looking forward to two very busy days and I would urge everyone who can to come and join us,” concluded Steve. For product listings and further details visit www. arrivabusandcoach.co.uk or call 01274 681144.
Arriva stock includes the Temsa Safari HD (left) and late-used Van Hools (ITA) since 2010, and was a Conservative member of Dudley Metropolitan Borough Council. Cllr Jon Hunt, Vice-Chairman of Centro, said: “This is a very sad loss of a thoroughly decent man and everyone at Centro sends their sincere condolences to his family. “Angus leaves the ITA in extremely good shape, with major investment coming in to the region and services maintained in difficult times. “As ITA chairman he was a very effective regional diplomat. He was a pleasure to work with and he will be greatly missed.” Geoff Inskip, Centro Chief Executive, said: “We are going to
sorely miss the drive, experience and enthusiasm of Angus Adams. “He was a visionary who worked hard to deliver a world-class public transport system for the people of the West Midlands and the wider region. “His commitment to his role as chairman was matched in no small part by a mischievous sense of humour that endeared him to everyone.” Cllr Les Jones, Leader of Dudley Council, said: “I am deeply saddened to hear the tragic news of Cllr Angus Adams, who was a well-respected colleague and close personal friend.
Enova to power Optare electric Solo Electric drive specialist Enova Systems, Inc. has delivered four incremental 120kW drive systems for Optare’s electric Solo. The Solo EV produces zero tailpipe emissions. It is based on a standard 27-seat 8.8-metre Solo, but the same technology can be applied on other Optare models. The EV was designed to perform exactly like a standard diesel powered bus, except it is smoother, quieter and cleaner. It is completely traffic compatible, with good acceleration and hill climbing capabilities and a top speed of up to 90 km/hour. On a full battery charge it has a range of around 110-130 kilometers depending on load factors and topography. “Angus was a very experienced and highly valued member of the cabinet, who was 100% committed to the council and its residents. “Angus was very popular and a real character and the news of his passing has come as a terrible shock to everyone. “Our thoughts are with Angus’ family at this sad and difficult time.” Cllr Mark Dowd, who chairs the ITA Special Interest Group, said: “I was deeply saddened to hear the news about Cllr Adams. He was a man of character, with a real commitment to serving the interests of public transport, and the people of the West Midlands.”
www.coachandbusweek.com
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6 | COACH & BUS WEEK | April 18, 2012
news › BUSeS
23
The number of Enviro 200’s introduced to Hastings services
briefly Arriva is holding a threeday event this weekend to celebrate the changes to its Milton Keynes services. The changes, coming into effect on April 22, include the number 2 and 300 running up to four times an hour. Other changes include the addition of Woburn Sands to the 300 Park and Ride route. The weekend activities will include a bus hunt and a colouring competition. Arriva are keen to hear feedback from customers and are offering a prize draw for an annual bus ticket. Linsey Frostick, Regional Marketing Manager, said: “The changes to our services in Milton Keynes offer significant improvements to our services and we want to give people the opportunity to find out more about the changes and pick up the new timetables.” Shropshire Council has agreed to a recommendation from Tanat Valley Coaches to restore the daily Monday to Saturday operation of the 0809hrs journey from Four Crosses via Llanymynech and Pant to Oswestry which started operation April 2. Currently the journey only operates on school days, meaning passengers who wish to travel to Oswestry before 1000hrs have to find alternative transport on Saturdays and school holidays or use the much earlier service. The route has been funded by the Local Sustainable Transport Fund. Prior to this, Four Crosses, Llanymynech and Pant were the only main villages in the Oswestry area without a morning bus six days a week to Oswestry. The Sheffield City Region Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) has approved a £3m grant towards construction of a Sheffield to Rotherham BRT scheme. The southern route did not attract Government funding and transport chiefs are currently “examining alternatives” but the northern option was approved by the DfT. The total cost of the scheme is £34m, with the DfT to provide £19.4m of the sum. Sheffield Council and Rotherham Council are also part-funding the scheme. The route will run via Attercliffe, Meadowhall and Templeborough. www.coachandbusweek.com
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Stagecoach UK Bus MD Les Warneford to retire Warneford to work alongside new Managing Director Robert Montgomery for a year Les Warneford, Managing Director of Stagecoach UK Bus, is to retire next year. He will step down from his post on May 1, 2013, and is being succeeded by Robert Montgomery, the current Service Performance Director. Montgomery becomes Deputy Managing Director from May 1, 2012, as part of the Group’s succession planning. He will work closely with Warneford over the next 12 months to help ensure a smooth handover. Sir Brian Souter, Stagecoach Group chief executive, said: “Les has played a very significant role in Stagecoach’s success. He has headed a division which has provided consistently strong operational delivery, the best value fares to customers, huge levels of investment and industry-leading financial performance, as well as an exceptional track-record of passenger growth. “Robert has spent a decade
Trial scheme opens up Sheffield bus lanes
Bus lanes in Sheffield could be made available to motorists with passengers and delivery drivers as part of a trial scheme. Sheffield Council has received £80,000 of local transport funding to investigate the feasibility of the changes which could be implemented before the end of the year. Specific routes have not yet been confirmed but busy A roads including Abbeydale Road, Chesterfield Road, Ecclesall Road and Savile Street have been proposed. Sheffield Council cabinet member for environment and
with Stagecoach and has overseen the strong growth of our bus companies in the south of England, as well as expanding our megabus. com budget coach operation in the UK. I am confident he will build on these strong foundations. We also have a talented and experienced wider senior management team at our UK Bus division and a strong network of regional bus companies with the power and flexibility to run their businesses locally.” Montgomery - whose first job in the industry was as a seasonal bus conductor in Paisley, Scotland – has nearly 40 years’ experience of regulated and deregulated markets in the bus and coach sector. After completing a degree at the University of Glasgow in 1974, he spent two years as a graduate trainee with the National Bus Company based in Darlington. He then held various management roles in the north before being appointed area manager Derbyshire with Trent Motor Traction in 1980. He then held senior management positions with Red Bus, North Devon; United Transport Buses; and South
Bus lanes in Sheffield could be changed to multi-occupancy vehicle lanes before the end of the year transport, Cllr Leigh Bramall, said: “With the start of work on the £2 billion highways upgrade from August, we recognise increased levels of congestion will be very likely over the next few years.
Yorkshire Transport. Montgomery is a former managing director of Dublin Bus and ex-director (Scotland) with First Group plc. He has also worked as a non-executive director of GM Buses (South) Limited. He has been Stagecoach UK Bus service performance director since 2002. Warneford is one of the UK bus industry’s longest-serving managing directors. During his career, he has been a bus conductor, driver, clerk, traffic officer, traffic superintendent and operations director in Bradford, Leicester, Grimsby and Staffordshire. In 1990, he returned to Grimsby as Managing Director of Grimsby Cleethorpes Transport which was acquired by Stagecoach in 1993. Under Stagecoach, he became General Manager Warwickshire (1994), Managing Director Cumbria (1994), Managing Director Manchester (1996), Regional Director Midlands and North West (1998) before being appointed UK Bus Managing Director in 2000. He has three adult daughters and lives with his wife, Aileen, in Buxton. “Allowing cars with two occupants or more into bus lanes is something which goes on in other cities and would encourage car sharing with family or friends, which is good for the city’s environment. We also want to minimise the impact of congestion on businesses. Cllr Bramall said the council has consulted with bus companies and the city’s Motorists’ Forum. “Motorists’ Forum members say they are concerned about the effect of congestion, particularly on delivery drivers. There is spare capacity on bus lanes which could be utilised to benefit commuters,” Coun Bramall said. The council said enforcement would be ‘necessary’ to ensure the scheme worked properly. Bus lanes opened up for shared occupancy cars and delivery vehicles would be monitored by a new portable bus lane camera which is being bought by the council.
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61%
The fall in anti-social behaviour on NXWM services over five years
MD Phil Medlicott, with Operations Manager Rachel Geliamassi, stiltwalking Roadside Publicity Officer Paul Geliamassi and management trainee Paul Koc
New buses for Hastings 23 new Enviro 200 single deckers have been introduced to Hastings’ Arrows services, five months earlier than anticipated due to the Stagecoach’s role in the Olympic and Paralympic Games. They were launched by Phil Medlicott, MD for Stagecoach in East Kent & East Sussex with colleagues dressed in costumes similar to those found on the Bayeux tapestry – which is the new fleet’s livery theme. Stagecoach is managing two depots in London during the Olympic and Paralympic Games, with 1100 vehicles in operation during the events, many buses and staff from depots across the UK, including the 23 new Enviro 200s, will be seconded to London during the games and will re-enter local service in September. Medlicott said: “We are delighted to introduce the buses to customers ahead of schedule. The E200s have easier access for wheelchair users and people travelling with buggies, and are more environmentally friendly with low emission engines to reduce pollution.” The £3m investment follows the introduction of 11 new double deckers, worth £1.6m in January, some of which are based at the Hastings depot and are used on the Wave 99 service between Hastings and Eastbourne. The Hastings bus depot operates a fleet of 72 single and double deck buses with a team of 200 drivers, engineering and support personnel.
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1974
April 18, 2012 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 7
SHARE WATCH
The year Les Warneford earned his degree at University of Glasgow
BMC to offer Procity CNG BMC UK is proposing to bring what it calls ‘the tried and tested’ BMC Procity CNG SLF bus to the UK. To date, over 300 Procity CNG buses are in service in five major cities in Turkey, Bulgaria, Romania, Poland and Slovakia. Phillip Hodgson, BMC UK Head of Sales, said: “The 12m Procity offers superb drive comfort and safety for all passengers with a roomy interior and flexible seating layout. Easy accessibility is achieved through the super low floor design with the option of one, two or three-door entry/exit system to the stepless passenger compartment. A kneeling function is provided for pavement-level passenger boarding. Depending on
the number of doors provided, up to 45 passengers can be seated with 46 standing.” The Procity CNG is powered by a Cummins Westpoint ISL Ge320 Turbocharged and CAC engine driving through a ZF 6HP 604C automatic gearbox. ZF front and rear (Portal) axles are used. Hodgson added: “Only premium components are used in the manufacture of our products which is why over the last few years we have seen such an increase in sales, particularly in Europe, which is fast becoming our largest export market. “CNG prices are more stable, allow fixed gas supply prices and give lower maintenance costs for your transport needs together with protecting the environment.” For details, contact: phillip. hodgson@pelican-eng.
co.uk
Industry share prices at the close of the Stock Exchange on Monday, March 26. Optare saw the greatest proportional rise while National Express experienced the biggest proportional drop. Most figures obtained from www.iii.co.uk
296.15p
Price: Year High: 345.30p Year Low: 241.00p
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The BMC will join MAN and Scania by offering gas buses in the UK market
Nat Ex introduce more of�icers National Express West Midlands (NXWM) is funding a scheme to introduce more full-time police officers to patrol services and clamp down on antisocial behaviour. The two officers, who will travel both in uniform and undercover, will patrol based on known crime hotspots and public tip-offs. More than 2,300 crimes and violent attacks were recorded on West Midlands’ buses in 2011, although NXWM claims crime has fallen 61% over the past five years due to increased policing.
Currently, the Safer Travel Partnership gives passengers the chance to send complaints about antisocial behaviour via text message. The partnership currently has two sergeants and an inspector as well as a number of police community support officers. Peter Coates, Managing Director of NXWM, said: “We take antisocial behaviour on our buses very seriously and as a result of the action we have taken this has fallen by 61% in the last five years. “Incidents of serious crime on the bus are few and far between but we know our customers don’t want people smoking, playing loud music and refusing to pay fares. The addition of two new police officers to the bus network is great news.”
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FTSE 100
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Price: Year High: 6,104 Year Low: 4,791
+70 on last week
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8 | COACH & BUS WEEK | April 18, 2012
news › coaches
“In a highly competitive marketplace, any company’s image and identity is hugely important...” Alan Watts t3 marketing
briefly A project on the southbound M1 around Sheffield starts on Monday April 30 and will be completed by Saturday May 5. It involves resurfacing the entry slip road onto the southbound M1 at Junction 35 at Sheffield as well as all three lanes along the southbound carriageway for about a mile south of the junction. All work is taking place overnight between 2000 and 0600hrs. While the main carriageway will remain open at all times it will be reduced to one lane - sometimes with traffic using the hard shoulder as a running lane. The southbound entry slip road at Junction 35 will close when work is taking place with drivers wishing to join the southbound carriageway being diverted along the northbound carriageway up to Junction 35a where they can join the southbound M1. Hammersmith Flyover will be fully closed for six weekday nights from April 18. There will also be two full weekend closures. These will take place at the following times: Friday April 20 (2200) to Monday April 23 (0600hrs) and Friday April 27 (2200) to Monday April 30 (0600hrs). During this time, traffic will be diverted around the Hammersmith gyratory system. People are advised to consider alternative routes. TfL is aiming to fully reopen the flyover in June 2012. Following the Olympics, TfL will carry out remaining work. This will not require further weight restrictions to be imposed and TfL hopes to complete it with off-peak lane closures and minimal closures to the flyover. Daytime and overnight work on the A35 requires a 36 hour full closure of the A35 between 2000 on May 14 and 0600hrs on May 16. Overnight closures between 2000 and 0600hrs is required from April 26 to April 28 and May 16 to May 18. Clearly signed diversions will be in place but road users are advised to allow slightly longer for their journeys. Access will be maintained throughout the works for residents, emergency services and construction workers. www.coachandbusweek.com
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Supplier Profile p16
OzBus ceases trading End of the road shortly after buying Harrison Holidays OzBus, the coach tour company which offered London to Sydney overland trips, has ceased trading, despite having recently acquired Harrison Holidays. In an open letter on the OzBus website, Director Daryl Jones explained both Oz Bus Tours Ltd and Harrisons Tours Ltd were unable to pay their debts and there were “insufficient assets to meet the costs of winding up these firms either voluntarily or compulsorily.” All future tours are cancelled and both Harrison’s and OzBus’ offices have closed. Kings Lynn-based Harrison Holidays was bought by Australianowned OzBus in January this year. OzBus’ UK operations were based in Diddington, Cambridgeshire. Norwich-based insolvency specialists Parker Andrews sold
National Express names coach after athlete
National Express has named a coach after Ashford-born sprinter Nick Leavey in honour of his impressive sporting achievements. Nick, 25, is a rising UK talent, and recently earned a silver medal as part of the Great Britain 4x400m relay team at the European Indoor Championships in Paris. The coach dedication took place at Canterbury bus station on April 14, in the city where Nick attended school. The dedicated coach, which will travel hundreds of miles between Salisbury, Heathrow and London every week, was unveiled by Nick, and carries his name at the entrance door and underneath the driver’s window. National Express sponsors the Commonwealth Games England (CGE) team and has also provided 2010 CGE medallists with free coach travel to assist training for the 2014 Commonwealth Games. Nick said: “The free travel will
the company to OzBus Tours, with creditors owed more than £200,000. Jones told the Lynn News 18 Harrisons customers were owed about £8,000 and a further £20,000 was lost before the original firm went into administration. He added: “I am devastated by what has happened and saddened that anyone has lost money through no fault of their own. “I have been left with nothing and am not in a position to offer anything to anyone.” Jones partly blamed Parker Andrews who handled the administration, citing the lengthy time it took to get the company back and running again. He said the time taken to get the company and the office operating was a “disaster”. He added: “From early November to mid-January is an extremely long time to assess the situation, review offers and make a decision.
“In my opinion, they were well aware of the position when they made the decision to operate the profitable Christmas tours and could have allowed the bidding parties the opportunity to free sell tickets for February, March and April tours in December.” He is now proposing to develop a new series of 20 to 30 tours under the Harrisons Tours brand with everything run through UK agents. He said: “I am going to extend an olive branch out to all Harrison’s customers and I am going to stick my neck out as far as I can to suggest a workable solution.” OzBus Tours Ltd was owned by Jones, who is based near Brisbane. He has operated coach holidays in Australia for more than 40 years. OzBus Tours Ltd was formed in September 2011 to purchase another failed holiday operator, OzBus UK Limited, which was placed into liquidation in August 2011.
Nick Leavey receives his larger than life free pass from Danny Elford, commercial director of Kings Ferry make a huge difference to me as a competing athlete both now and in the lead up to the Olympics in 2012 and the Commonwealth Games in 2014. I balance my time between Middlesex and Kent, so travel is a big part of my life. The easier it is, the better I can focus on training. “Having the coach named after me is a great honour; it is such a visible way of showing support for athletes and the hard work we put in to win medals for our country. I’d like to sincerely thank National Express for their support.”
Danny Elford, Commercial Director of Kings Ferry, which is part of National Express Group, said: “We’re proud to support emerging British sports stars such as Nick by providing unlimited free coach travel to assist with their training and competitions. “We are delighted to unveil this special design in recognition of Nick’s achievements. Hopefully it will raise awareness of the commitment and dedication these young people show to British sport.”
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April 18, 2012 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 9
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M4 bus lane to be permanently suspended
Leons’ new £3m centre includes a new administration block and workshop
Leons opens new facility Leons’ Coaches of Stafford opened its new £3m coaching centre on Thursday (April 12), and was joined by the Lord Lieutenant of Staffordshire Mr Ian Dudson CBE. The newly built 4-acre site contains a new administration block, workshops and testing plant and is located at Paton Drive in the Beaconside area of Stafford. Director Robert Douglas told CBW: “It was a very good day. We
Roselyn Coaches open day
On May 6, 2012 Roselyn Coaches will be hosting its second Open Day at Middleway Garage, Par. The event is free, with collections being made throughout the day. All proceeds are being donated to Mount Edgcumbe Hospice. Attractions include free scenic tours running throughout the day of Fowey, Charlestown and the St Austell area in two open top buses. Around 20 invited classic coaches and buses will also be on display
had about 70 people coming down and we took them on a tour of the premises. “This is our first proper week here but we are really pleased with the new site. It’s superb, absolutely lovely.” Leons’ operates tours, day trips and contract services. It currently employs a staff of 40 workers, but the latest investment is expected to create around 10 new jobs at the site.
Visit the Leons Holidays website at www.leons.co.uk or call 01785 241319. accompanied by a variety of stalls, stands and souvenirs with the Westerners Concert Band booked to provide musical accompaniment. The Cornish firm’s last open day was held in 2010. Mike Heppell, Human Resources Manager, told CBW: “The last open day two years ago was fantastic, I could have slept for a week afterwards. “We decided to have a break and it’ll be good this year, definitely as good as the last one.” Mike will be a conductor on the tour buses this year, complete with authentic old fashioned ticket machine. “We will all be out and about and we will pray for the weather,” he added.
Motorists and hauliers have benefitted from the suspension of the M4 bus lane – according to Roads Minister Mike Penning. A report published by the Highways Agency shows average journey times along the M4 into London have improved with overall journeys along the route made more reliable. The Highways Agency will publish a notice of a Revocation Order, which is part of the statutory procedures to remove the lane, later this month. Penning said: “I am pleased to confirm following the suspension of the M4 bus lane, overall journey times on this vital strategic route into London have improved.
“We said if suspending the M4 bus lane showed overall benefits to drivers, we would look to permanently remove the lane after the London 2012 Games, and the analysis the Highways Agency is publishing today shows this.” The Bus Lane operated between junctions 3 and 2 of the eastbound M4. It was suspended in November 2010 under an Experimental Order under the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984. At the time of its suspension, it was the subject of a two-page ‘News Focus’ piece in CBW. Coach operators, including London Minicoaches and Berry of Taunton reacted with fury at the decision. Research by CBW found the usual public consultation process was effectively circumvented as it was implemented on an ‘experimental’ basis, allowing it to be introduced in an instant. During the London 2012 Games later this year it is intended that the lane will be used as a Games Family Lane.
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10 | COACH & BUS WEEK | April 18, 2012
news › international
77 VDL Citeas for Arriva in Sweden The order from Arriva is one of the largest in VDL’s history SWEDEN Arriva has signed a contract with VDL Bus & Coach for the delivery of 77 Low Entry Citea XLEs for operation in Stockholm. The order is the largest in VDL’s history for buses in the Swedish market. In addition, VDL has received an order to refurbish 85 articulated buses. The new Citeas are due to enter service in January 2013. Half of the articulated buses, which include Mercedes-Benz Citaros, will enter service in August 2012 and the other half as of January 2013. The order for Arriva consists of 21 13.7m Citea XLE-137s and 56 14.5m Citeas XLE-145s. These will be constructed as class 2 buses and are scheduled for use in the greater Stockholm area. Rémi Henkemans, Managing Director at VDL Bus & Coach, said: “This new, large order once again confirms our strategy for
lightweight concepts, with a focus on the European public transport segment. Our Citea range, with the SLF as Bus of the Year 2011, demonstrates our public transport buses are in the top tier in Europe. We are especially proud our knowledge and skill in this field is recognised by more and more
The XLE-145 will see service in Stockholm
Major Arriva Netherlands contract
NETHERLANDS Arriva Nederland has been awarded a Euro 450m contract to operate buses in north and south west Friesland and will continue to run bus services on the island of Schiermonnikoog. The Friesland contract, awarded by the Province of Fryslan, starts December 9, and will run for eight years, with a two-year optional extension. Under the contract, Arriva will run a fleet of 190 buses providing urban, inter-urban and rural services in the Province. The Province is currently drawing up specifications for the fleet, including electric, EEV and biogas. Arriva also intends to introduce timetables which better integrate bus and rail services, invest in Wi-Fi on its Q-liner express bus services and introduce new ticketing for frequent users. Arriva also aims to work with www.coachandbusweek.com
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passenger transport companies. “Futhermore, the order for 77 new Citeas in combination with the conversion order for 85 articulated buses is also a fine example of ‘Strength through co-operation’. After all, the articulated buses to be converted come from Arriva in the Netherlands. With the modifications we carry out, these buses will be perfectly suited for public transport in Stockholm. In this manner both Arriva and VDL demonstrate the benefits offered by larger international companies and the strength of true co-operation.”
MAN predicts need for buses in Middle East MIDDLE EAST MAN Truck & Bus Middle East predicts extensive infrastructure development plans recently announced by the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf (GCC) governments will lead to a greater demand for viable and comfortable public transport. GCC states plan to build and improve city transport networks. This includes reducing the number of private cars by providing public transport alternatives which use environmentally-friendly technologies. Thomas Weinmann, senior sales manager, MAN Truck & Bus Middle East, said: “MAN expects to focus attention on the region’s markets, especially Qatar, UAE and Oman, as they offer great potential in terms of demand for gas-powered buses. We also intend to strengthen our position in the Saudi market in line with growing government interest in improving public transport.”
Allison Transmission aids Agrale launch in Argentina
Arriva Nederland MD Anne Hettinga local businesses to encourage the development of services and transport marketing campaigns to support local firms. New kiosks are planned in Heerenveen and Sneek, in addition to the Leeuwarden kiosk, to provide tickets and service information to customers and improve support for passengers using the Province’s ’Opstapper’ (hop-on, hop-off) bus service. Anne Hettinga, MD at Arriva Nederland, said: “As sole provider of regional rail services in Friesland and Groningen, this new bus contract will complement our existing operations.”
ARGENTINA Agrale, Megacar and Allison Transmission presented the Agrale MA15 city bus, equipped with an Allison automatic gearbox, at a launch which took place in four key cities near Buenos Aires – Córdoba, Tucumán, Neuquén and Mendoza. Equipped with an Allison T270, the Agrale MA15 is targeted toward fleets utilising locallyproduced vehicles. In particular, these fleets seek transmissions offering technological advances which help optimise the vehicle’s manoeuvrability, passenger safety, uptime, fuel consumption and productivity. The Allison transmission has an extensive track record in the Argentine passenger transport industry. The partners organised the ‘Reliability Experiment,’ a series of test-drives designed for participants to experience the MA15 Agrale first hand.
Roberto Larossa, Regional Manager of Allison Transmission Argentina, said: “The events have been a great success in terms of the number of participants attending and taking part in the test drives. No one wanted to miss the opportunity to drive a low floor, front engine, Allison equipped passenger bus.” Juan Carlos Compostela, Sales and Marketing Manager at Megacar S.A, said: “Throughout the presentations in each of the four cities, we have seen great support from our customers with attendance from companies representing diverse sectors. We found the new Agrale MA15 extremely well-received on many levels including cost, service and support.”
Visit Allison’s website at www. allison transmission.com
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news › REGIONAL
SCOTLAND
Lothian Buses has announced a new set of Conditions of Carriage following a review of its Accessibility Policy. The revisions, which take effect from April 30, 2012, permit non-collapsible buggies on all 55 routes in Edinburgh and the Lothians. Independent research conducted last year focused on the needs of disabled people, those travelling with young children and elderly passengers. As a result the following changes are to be introduced on Lothian Buses: n Buggies including prams, pushchairs and travel systems which do not obstruct the aisle may be brought onto buses unfolded. Passengers who board with an unfolded buggy must place it in the buggy space whenever the space is available. n If the bus does not have a buggy space, or on buses which have one and the buggy space is not available, one unfolded buggy may be placed in the wheelchair space. n In common with all other passengers, whenever the wheelchair space is needed by a wheelchair user, passengers with unfolded buggies must move to make it available. n In order to allow a wheelchair user to board, any passenger occupying the wheelchair space with an unfolded buggy should fold it and place it in the luggage rack. Alternatively, they may choose to get off the bus, in which case a receipt will be issued to allow them to complete their journey on a following bus free of charge. n Where the wheelchair space and the buggy space are already occupied, additional buggies must be folded and placed in the luggage rack on boarding. n Empty buggies must be folded and placed in the luggage rack. Since Lothian Buses launched its 25-strong “buggy-friendly” fleet in 2009, the company has 269 vehicles with dedicated wheelchair and buggy space. Ian Craig, Managing Director of Lothian Buses, said: “Accessibility is a complex and challenging issue for all public transport providers. Investment in the fleet and changes to policies, which affect numerous groups, not just parents and carers, need careful consideration before they can be implemented.”
MIDLANDS
Bakerbus, the bus operating arm of Biddulph-based
www.coachandbusweek.com
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KEY
SCOTLAND NORTHERN IRELAND REP OF IRELAND NORTH WALES MIDLANDS EAST LONDON SOUTH EAST SOUTH WEST
Bakers Coaches, has hit out at rumours circulating that its Beartown Bus Network is to cease this summer. The Congleton ‘Beartown Bus Network’ is currently operated under contract to Cheshire East Council, which expires in August 2012. “There is a rumour circulating that these bus services will cease after that date. This is not true. We are pleased to confirm the entire network will continue, with some enhancements too, as a commercial venture by Bakerbus,” the firm said in a statement. The service was introduced in August 2007 by the former Cheshire County Council and Bakerbus, and operated using dedicated Plaxton Primos. Nottingham County Council has allocated £5m over a four-year period to subsidise free travel for school pupils in a move the council believes will benefit hard-pressed families. The initiative builds upon a free travel scheme which has been in place since September for year seven pupils, if their chosen school is more than three miles away from their home. The recent changes will see the scheme expanded to cover all secondary pupils in the county from next week and is targeted at families who choose to send their children to secondary schools outside of their local catchment area. However, opposition councillors have attacked the ruling
Conservatives and claim the money could be better spent elsewhere. Alan Rhodes, leader of the Labour group on the council, said: “It strikes me as a policy which hasn’t been costed properly and is rapidly becoming unaffordable. The Conservatives are pursuing a scheme that will cost a significant amount of money in the long term.” In response, leader of the council Kay Cutts said: “We believe in choice. Our aim is to make sure that parents can send their children to the school of their choice, as is their right.” The council states it has received 445 applications for money under the scheme this year, with a total cost to the authority of £260,000.
SOUTH EAST
Reading Transport is opening the doors of its depot to the public once again this summer when the company holds its fourth annual free open day in Great Knollys Street on Sunday, July 1. All profits from the day go to the Duchess of Kent House Hospice, which is the company’s chosen charity for the second year running, with last year’s event raising £3,120. An open top bus will provide a special shuttle service between the town centre and the depot where there will be a number of restored former Reading buses to explore. Organiser Jayne Forster said: “We are looking forward to another bumper day. A lot of people come for the behind-the-scenes tours.
You can see the traffic office, take a tour of the workshop, have a look around buses past and present and even ride through the bus wash. But it’s not just about buses. We also have loads of games to play, including ‘buses and stairs’ which is our version of snakes and ladders. There will be food stalls including a barbecue, quizzes, tombolas, book and plant stalls and much, much more.” Fellow organiser Gary Beecham added: “A lot of people are giving up their time to entertain everyone and raise lots of cash. We have even lined up a special visit from some guests from a galaxy far, far away.” A new bus route saves passengers 15 minutes in travel time by offering a frequent service between Deal and Canterbury with a journey time of just 45 minutes. Stagecoach launched the new 12 service at Deal Castle with deputy mayor Cllr Eileen Rowbotham, Town Cllr Ian Killbery, Stagecoach’s Commercial Director Jeremy Cooper and Operations Manager David Barrie. Jeremy Cooper explained the unsubsidised new route enables travellers using an explorer day ticket travel for £5.80 per day or £19 for a weekly ticket. Jeremy said: “We have committed operating costs of £200,000 in the first year to assign two buses and four drivers to cover the new service which will offer a bus up to every hour during the daytime.” Eileen Rowbotham said the introduction of new bus services was appreciated: “This is good news as better bus services will attract more people to take a greener approach to their travelling habits.”
SOUTH WEST
Bus companies in Somerset have warned changes to fares and services are essential to remain in business. The BSOG reduction has been compounded by subsidy cuts from local councils and the increasing price of fuel. Tim Gardner, from Webberbus, said the passenger would be the one to suffer if the company could not make a surplus. “Although it is only a few pence per litre, multiply it by hundreds of thousands of litres and it adds up to be a fairly substantial number. If we do not make a surplus we cannot reinvest into our fleet, develop our
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networks, and at the end of the day the passenger will suffer - so we have to look at some way to recoup the cost.” Alan Graham from South West Coaches believes that Somerset could lose all its rural bus services within 10 years time if this situation continues. “We’ve got to try and keep fares down to get people on our vehicles,” he said. “If we had more people on the buses then we would obviously get income that way, but in rural Somerset we don’t get the necessary number of people on the buses.” Residents in Whitchurch and Hengrove were left stranded after First Bus withdrew services in both areas over the bank holiday weekend. Services 20, 36 and 51 were completely withdrawn on Good Friday and Easter Monday causing confusion for passengers who claim they were unaware of such changes. The three routes are currently partly subsidised by Bristol City Council for journeys during the evenings and on Sundays. The company said services were not profitable enough to run on Bank Holidays without further subsidies. Due to a £2.2m shortfall in the council’s transport budget announced last May, the authority
April 18, 2012 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 13
Coach & Bus Week takes a look at the big issues where you live in our round-up of the regions. If you’ve got a local issue you would like us to cover, contact James Day at james.day@rouncymedia.co.uk.
DATES FOR YOUR DIARY
has had to cut back on the amount of bus journeys it supports. A First Bus spokesman said: “While we understand some people would like to see these buses running on Bank Holidays, without support from a third party to fund those journeys, as is the case for journeys operating during the evenings and on Sundays, it is not possible for them to operate. This is because the costs of operating the journeys far exceed the revenue that can be taken on board the bus on those days. As a company we would be happy to discuss the possibility of operating these services on bank holidays with the council should they be interested in financially supporting them.” Cllr Tim Kent, executive member for transport, said: “Bristol City Council has invested tens of millions in bus lanes, real time information and improved bus stops. This is to help all bus companies to grow passenger numbers, and bus services are clearly doing a far brisker trade than they were five years ago. I’m disappointed therefore to see the cap-in-hand approach being wheeled out again. We have delivered, they are doing better business, and they should have the room to operate less successful bank holiday services off the back of their very successful commuter and shopper operation.”
2012 n April 19, 2012 UK Coach Awards. Ramada Jarvis Piccadilly Hotel in Manchester, 0870 900 1450. www.ukcoachawards.co.uk n April 19-21 Busworld Turkey. Istanbul Expo Center, Turkey. www.busworldturkey.com/en/ index.html n April 21-22 UK Coach Rally. East of England Showground, Peterborough. 01753 631170.
www.coachdisplays.co.uk
n April 24-26 CV Show. NEC, Birmingham. 01634 261262. www.cvshow.com n April 25-26 Arriva Bus & Coach (dealer) Open Days.Gomersal, Cleckheaton, West Yorkshire. 02174 681144. www.arrivabusandcoach.co.uk n May 5 – 7 Llandudno Festival of Transport. Bodafon Fields, Llandudno, North Wales. 01492 545053. www.llantransfest.co.uk
n August 27 The National Association of Road Transport Museums gala day. The Transport Museum, Wythall, near Birmingham. www.wythall.org.uk n September 6 Association of Trainers AGM. Steele Road, Wembley Julia@asot.org.uk 01797 344251
n May 6 Roselyn Coaches Open Day. Middleway Garage, Par, Cornwall. 01726 813737. www.roselyncoaches.co.uk
n September 8-9 UK Bus Driver of the Year, Blackpool. Call competition secretary Bill Holmes on 01303 251462. www.bdoy.co.uk
n May 22-23 ALBUM Conference. – Forest Pines Hotel, near Brigg, North Lincolnshire.
n September 16 Showbus. Imperial War Museum, Duxford, Cambridgeshire. www.showbus.com
www.albumconference.co.uk
n June 4 Imberbus’ service, using Routemaster buses from Warminster, across rarely-seen parts of Salisbury Plain. warminstervbrd.
zxq.net/v/imber.htm
n June 5 – 7 Transports Publics 2012. The European Mobility Exhibition, Paris. www.transportspublics-expo.com n June 10 Barry Festival of Transport. Organised by Cardiff Transport Preservation Group, Barry, South Wales. postmaster@-ctpg. co.uk. www.ctpg.co.uk
n September 20-27 IAA Commercial Vehicles. Hannover. +(00)49 30897842. www.iaa.de n October 14 Midland Red Centenary of the Reintroduction of Motorbuses. The Transport Museum, Wythall, near Birmingham. www.wythall.org.uk n October 18 CILT Annual Awards for Excellence Dinner. London. 01536 740104. www.ciltuk.org.uk n November 6-8 Euro Bus Expo. NEC, Birmingham. 01926 834790. www.eurobusxpo.com
n June 22 CILT Wales National Transport Awards lunch. Cardiff City Hall. 01446 451227. www.ciltuk. org.uk/pages/regions/wales
n November 20 UK Bus Awards London Hilton Park Lane. www.ukbusawards.org.uk
n July 1 Reading Transport Great Knollys Street Open Day. 11 – 1600hrs. 0118 959 4000.
n March 20-21 UK Bus Awards Annual Conference. Venue to be confirmed, but will be in Central London. www.ukbusawards.org.uk
n July 15 Alton Bus Rally & Running Day. Mid Hants Railway, Alton, Hampshire. www.watercressline.co.uk
n May 26-30 UITP Congress & Exhibition Palexpo, Geneva. www. uitp.org. +(00)32 2673 610
www.reading-buses.co.uk
Network Warrington is supporting Priestley College student Jack Gleave who is going to South Africa for a month as part of the training camp to prepare the GB Athletics Team. Jack’s speciality is the 800 and 1500 metres, and he will be helping to coach team GB athletes as they prepare for this summer’s Olympics. The company has sponsored his kit, which shows the Company’s logo and are looking forward to hearing updates from South Africa as he assists the coaching of the UK squad. David Squire, Managing Director, commented: “Jack and his family are rightly proud of his achievement in helping to be a part of the Olympics, we are delighted to assist him by sponsoring his kit, and wish him well in his endeavours in South Africa.”
The UK Coach Rally takes place in Peterborough this coming weekend. Prizes won by County Durham-based Stanley Travel in 2011 included the Fred Bibby Award for the Best Loved Coach
n August 3-5 Bedford OB GetTogether. South Cerney Airfield, Cirencester, GL7 5QB. Contact the organiser Tim Wootton by email on tim@tjcs.freeserve.co.uk. Visit
http://www.bedfordob.com/
2013
n October 18-23 Busworld Kortrijk. www.busworld.org
Do you have an event to promote? Send details to gareth.evans@rouncymedia.co.uk www.coachandbusweek.com
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14 | COACH & BUS WEEK | April 18, 2012
inbox
LETTER of the week
Bus funding crisis
Dear Sirs, The Scottish bus funding crisis (CBW April 4) has a different dimension to that in England and Wales but bus operators everywhere are facing serious problems as a result of dubious political decisions. Warning the politicians that fares will rise in consequence will have little effect. Politicians have no qualms about passing the cost of their decisions on to bus passengers who are not particularly vociferous or well organised and, if necessary, the politicians will blame the “greedy bus barons” Cutting BSOG (or as I prefer to call it, ‘reduced fuel taxation’) places an onerous burden on operators but Westminster did give reasonable notice. The Scottish and Welsh Ministers have no excuse for the ridiculously short notice they gave. The Scottish
Fuelling the debate
Dear Sirs, Am I alone in not seeing a problem with fuel prices? A recent editorial in CBW joined its voice to those complaining about the high cost of fuel, but the cost of fuel – at whatever level – provides what everyone wants in a competitive world: a level playing field. Every operator has to buy fuel at more or less the same price. Were fuel to halve in price overnight would that mean an immediate boost in profitability? Of course not, because every other operator would use the extra margin to drop their prices, hoping to undercut the competition. The industry would soon revert to status quo, but at a lower price/ cost basis. If profit results from a percentage added to costs, lower costs mean lower profits. The oil companies have learned that the margin they add at retail to the cost they pay for production goes up with every cost rise – which is why they’re making billions in profits. And don’t forget, high fuel costs affect private motorists as well, perhaps encouraging them to leave the car behind and catch the bus. There may be an argument that high fuel costs impact negatively on the economy as a whole, but I don’t see operators campaigning on behalf of wider society, just with the short-sighted view that everything would be alright if only their fuel was cheaper. Better they invest in good driving and vehicle
Minister’s decision to pay on mileage defies all attempts at logical explanation. It is accepted that Ministers rely on their officials for advice and guidance but wouldn’t it be wonderful to have a Transport Minister with enough savvy to recognise when his officials have handed him an absolute howler? When the concessionary fare scheme was introduced, assurances were given that operators would be no better and no worse off – which has now been abandoned by cynical politicians passing more and more of the costs on to operators to recover from fare paying passengers. Why does the bus industry suffer this injustice? Would Marks and Spencer accept being compelled to give free clothing to pensioners without adequate recompense? Surely the bus industry has a compelling case to pursue the Government in the courts. The industry is more entitled than criminals and terrorists to have its human rights protected. John Whittle, Yieldshield, Carluke. By email
management techniques. This will ensure they get best value from the fuel they buy and put them at a genuine advantage over those of their competitors who are more profligate. Richard Charnley, If it moves… Leamington Spa, Warwickshire
More on the M25 Tour Dear Sirs, I read with interest about Brighton and Hove’s M25 coach tour (CBW March 28) and agree with Roger French it can only be a good thing for the UK coach tour industry. However, the idea is not unique, as I was reminded by a long-term client, who rang during the ITV evening news featuring the tour. Epsom Coaches ran tours of the M25 back in 1985 when the motorway was first completed. Like the Brighton and Hove experience, we found there was plenty of interest, although it was perhaps then considered a bit eccentric, but who cares if it works. Nevertheless, we had full loads over several weeks of people eager to see the new motorway, including its many highlights. Over the years the M25 has been rebuilt and modified so the timing is entirely right, I wish Roger and his team every success. On a final note, CBW seems to be thriving under Gareth’s leadership – there’s always plenty to read, so well done. Steve Whiteway, Commercial director, Epsom Coaches, Group, Epsom, Surrey
a bus! Sort of...
Drop us a line and if your letter is chosen as our Letter of the Week, you’ll receive a top-notch coach or bus model courtesy of our friends at Corgi. Please try to keep your letters concise. The editor’s decision is final.
Send your letters to cbwinbox@ rouncymedia.co.uk, fax 0845 2802927 or write to: Inbox, Coach & Bus Week, 3 The Office Village, Cygnet Park, Forder Way, Hampton, Peterborough PE7 8GX
New management CPC open to question Dear Sirs, As students breathe a sigh of relief that the first of the new mangement CPC exams are behind them, they may not realise that for half the qualification at least they have no way of finding out what answers were being required for the 60 multiple choice questions they faced. Indeed, once they leave the exam room the content of the question paper becomes secret. Nobody outside of the influence of the examining body, OCR, is supposed to even know what the questions were - let alone what answers were expected. This hardly provides the ‘transparency’ which should be expected of any examination process. Perhaps this would matter less if OCR were an efficient and accurate organisation. As it is, a check of their website on the day of the exam would have shown they had yet to finalise the drafted syllabus and both the exhibited sample papers contained errors. For the new exam format, they have decided to abandon the independent external post-exam scrutiny of the multiple choice paper. I used to be involved with that process and frequently drew attention to weaknesses in questions. Then there was a chance to remedy errors before results were issued. Now there is not. I did see the last paper. I thought one question was based on out of date legislation and I should be very interested to know the answer to another: In which of Austria, Belgium, France, Italy and Portugal is it illegal to administer first-aid if not ‘qualified’? Does anyone outside OCR believe they know the answer? I compile the international section of Croner Bus & Coach yet you won’t find the solution there. What hope for candidates? OCR no longer has a monopoly in running these exams for DfT. No other examiners have yet put their hats in the ring – but the sooner they face some competition for this business, the sooner candidates will be reassured that they can expect realistic questions and valid answers. Mike Grant, By email
www.coachandbusweek.com
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supplier profile › t3 marketing
A fresh approach to marketing matters Coach & Bus Week’s Gareth Evans talks to Alan Watts about his history and ideas behind a new venture – t3 marketing, a fresh name in the coach & bus industry
I
t’s not every day a new marketing business is set up specifically focused on the passenger transport industry, but that’s exactly what Lancashire-based t3 marketing sets out to do. By pooling together the expertise of two successful small businesses with many years’ experience in transport, travel and tourism, t3 offers the coach and bus industry a full range of closely integrated marketing services, covering everything from the provision of websites and literature to corporate identity, fleet liveries, photography and PR. “After many months of thinking about it, we pushed the ‘Go’ button just before Christmas,” said director Alan Watts. “Despite the economic environment, we judged now is an excellent time to do something new, as now is also a time of rapid change, and the rate of that change will only carry
on increasing. Change also creates new opportunity and frankly I think the opportunity for the whole passenger transport industry has rarely looked better. By nature, I’m an optimist and this is a good industry to be an optimist in.”
So what are t3’s bus and coach credentials?
“My background is very much in vehicle marketing,” explained Alan. “Both in terms of the product and its specification as well as its subsequent sales promotion and advertising. As a holiday job I used to drive 7.5 ton trucks, loading and unloading around the Lancashire mills. Probably because of my first hand experience, this led to a first ‘proper’ job with DAF Trucks. With around 100 others, I went for an interview and they put us in a classroom and gave us a question along the lines of ‘DAF is launching a new coach chassis in the UK. What would be some of the main factors
Above: Some examples of the work produced by Alan’s separate truck marketing firm. Right: Alan has fond memories of travelling on Ribble www.coachandbusweek.com
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that we would need to consider?’ “Having swotted up everything possible on trucks, I certainly wasn’t expecting that. However, my answers must have been about right, as I got the job. At the time, DAF was just introducing the MB230 into the UK to take on the Leopard and the Volvo B58, so obvious issues such as ease of bodybuilding and aftersales dealer support were all to the fore. Later, we had to market research the potential for bringing the first DAF rear-engined coach chassis to the UK as well. All really interesting, pioneering stuff. I spent five incredibly motivating years at DAF - what I call the ‘Phil Ives years’ – when the company’s UK operation just grew like topsy. After that, I went to work at DAF’s advertising agency in Manchester, before going to ERF as marketing manager in the mid 1980s. Roll on a few years more, I then set up my own transport industry marketing business, and we’ve had two very successful decades working for truck manufacturers, bodybuilders, ancillary equipment suppliers, dealers and operators. All totally engaging stuff – but now it’s time to look at something a bit different. And that something is t3.”
Why is t3 different?
“Simply because the other contributing party to the t3 project is a creative marketing and design business which for many years has specialised in travel and tourism. They’ve worked for clients ranging from Blackpool Transport and Shearings through to Alan Rogers and French Country Camping. “We’ve already worked closely together for over a decade on high profile projects such as our truck
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supplier: t3 marketing
location: Croston, Preston, Lancashire Contact: 01772 602956 info@t3marketing.co.uk brochures and advertising for Mercedes-Benz UK, and a wide range of other projects including corporate identities and fleet liveries,” explained Alan. “So that’s what t3 is –a marketing business uniquely focused on, and dedicated to, the transport, travel and tourism industries. t3 is truly specialist that’s what makes us different.”
Why is what t3 does so important?
“Like it or not, we live in a marketing-led world. In a highly competitive marketplace, any company’s image and identity is hugely important. “In the wider transport industry, there are some huge success stories where innovative and sustained marketing has played an absolutely pivotal role. Think of Eddie Stobart, a company with a strong brand image and public identity. At its core is a vibrant, teamwork-centred culture that places emphasis on straightforward, practical people doing a routine but complex job extremely well. There’s a passion for innovation, commitment and excellence – the company even has its own TV programme on Channel 5,” Alan continued. “As another example of doing something completely new, think of easyJet - the very name changed the whole way we think of - and buy - our air transport. You stand back and think ‘How did they do that?’ “These are not just businesses excelling at what they do, but real game-changers in their sectors. Not just companies, but also brands of imagination, strength and vitality. “We have good experience of developing the power of a brand ourselves. A decade ago, we produced a completely revised corporate identity for Lancashire haulier Fagan & Whalley. Knowing their industry first hand, we understood precisely the company’s heritage, its core values, what it did and where it wanted to go. Today, the company’s fleet has grown by a factor of over three. “Similarly, a London truck bodybuilder we designed a new corporate and brand identity for over 15 years ago now outsells all its competitors combined.”
Passion, vision, commitment
“Self-evidently, behind these public impressions are much deeper issues of company culture. At the most basic
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level, there has to be real passion, vision and commitment to make these things happen,” according to Alan. “Key questions need to be asked and answered. What is the company’s core mission? Does the company hold particular business values? Who is it really serving - its directors, its shareholders or its customers? Why is the company special? In what way is it actually different from its competitors? Businesses in the road freight industry continue to fight hard to promote their individual identities, often by conceptualising their activities under different marketing banners such as distribution and logistics. And, by and large, it has worked. “Are there lessons here for coaches and buses? The answer is most definitely ‘yes’.”
Marketing as investment
“Consider that a top-spec truck and trailer costs around £120,000. Then consider a top-spec, full-length tri-axle coach can cost three times that figure. Add to that steadily rising operating costs, as well as general company overheads. To earn a worthwhile return on such expenditure, any transport business in 2012 has little option but to be totally professional in everything it does. This means marketing must be taken seriously. It’s not a tack-on luxury, but the very essence as to how a company projects itself to its target audience. A well thought out marketing strategy is also a clear statement of self-belief in how a company wants to grow. Whilst setting up t3, we’ve had a good look at a range of coach operators and their marketing output, with the result we think there’s a huge opportunity for companies who really want to move ahead. “And it should be remembered that while Stobart carries dry freight pallets, our industry carries people. Our ‘cargo’ talks, thinks, interacts, is highly complex and can have strong opinions. Our cargo can be our greatest advocate, or our sternest critic.”
Simple steps
“To communicate our professionalism, our commitment and our passion for our industry to our audience, first, perhaps, we need to be bolder in letting go of the past. As I said at the outset, everything today is about change. In dealing with that change, accept www.coachandbusweek.com
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Welcome aboard!
Since its new identity, Fagan & Whalley has grown by a factor of three and embrace the challenges and opportunities it presents. For example, many long established coach companies have now evolved into full holiday businesses in their own right. “In our hi-tech world traditional coach tour brochures, as picked up in high street travel agents, have largely given way to websites which provide both information and full online booking. A website is now not just a key communication tool but also a business gateway. The importance of a website’s professional design, structure, implementation and operation is everything. No longer is a website a holiday job for the Managing Director’s student daughter-in-law! Incredibly, we have found some coach operators still don’t even have a website at all. “Second, any business should focus very hard on what it does best - and do more of it. What is any coach company’s core offer? To what market sectors is it making its appeal? Is it pitching on primarily on price, or quality? With what types of services? To the young and students, or the elderly and other specialist markets? And just for UK operation, or into Europe? “Third, any bus or coach operator should explore issues and areas that might make it distinctive or different. Whilst the family name can be a great heritage, in today’s blizzard of communication techniques it’s less relevant - especially if an ambition of the business is to attract new customers. “Put simply, new techniques are needed now, starting with a modern, professional, corporate identity, encompassing not just a livery but every public item the company puts out - website,
“Put simply, has there ever been a better long term opportunity for road passenger transport?” Alan Watts literature, flyers, clothing. Professional, consistent and well considered corporate identity is the starting block to building a novel, attractive identity to pull in a new audience. “The identity should also convey to its audience some broad statement or strapline as to what a coach company actually does, and why it is special. Visually, any operation has to stand out from the rest - to try and be uniquely attractive. Really good visual design can achieve this. If you already have genuine passion in your business, then almost anything is possible. “However, on the face of it many operators seem to miss these opportunities. Pull into any service area, and among the smart set will be a good number of the plain white ‘Barry’s Coaches of Little Snoring’ genre. These vehicles will probably look tired and unloved. There will be no description or message as to what the company really does, or any visual invitation to interest anyone further. The driver’s area may be untidy, with food wrappers, pens and a newspaper stuffed between the windscreen and the instrument binnacle. “Other coaches often feature various lurid stripes, curves and ‘paintball splat’ liveries which are completely at odds with not only any serious marketing presentation but also the very shape and contours of its host bodywork.”
“For over five decades, our quality of life has gone on rising. A few splutters maybe, but the graph has consistently pointed upward. Yet is all this about to change? “Today’s young and middle aged have grown up in a car-dominated culture. But the pressures are building. Many families are worse off, and can expect to be still worse off for years to come. We’re now in the age of dramatically higher costs for almost everything - domestic heating and lighting, university fees, 20% mortgage deposits, and the £100 petrol fill-up – with no real chance of return. Suddenly, for many the car becomes a luxury, even a burden. Today’s university students may be the first large-scale non-car owning generation. They will be carrying society’s future social, economic and environmental burdens. “Put simply, has there ever been a better long term opportunity for road passenger transport?”
It’s the future
“In this new environment, everything is about the future. That’s why we’ve chosen the very image of t3 marketing to be ‘Tom’, the little boy on the coach, asking the evergreen question ‘are we nearly there yet?’ The question is not just about his individual journey, but our whole industry. How far can we really go? Where will the future take us? “In terms of technology, the latest hybrid and gas powered buses are now leading the whole commercial vehicle building industry. We are leaders, not followers. “For t3, it’s about how we bring transport, travel and tourism together to develop new business opportunities and passenger experiences. When I was not much older than Tom, my mother and I used to go on the lovely Ribble ‘White Lady’ double deckers on the X43 from Burnley to Manchester. We always tried to sit at the front, upstairs, above the driver so that I could ‘steer’ the big, nodding cream vehicle along the winding road below. “It was only a bit of fun, a shard of imagination and a flash of excitement - but nevertheless one that’s been firmly lodged in the top cupboard ever since. Looking back, it was not just about where we wanted to go, but about the very future itself. “And that’s why we’ve created t3.”
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Handling a fare amount of cash
There have been a number of high profile success stories in mobile and electronic ticketing recently, such as Arriva’s very successful M-Ticketing (CBW1019) and Go-Ahead Group’s ‘key’. The government has set the target of having half of all bus journeys to be smartcard enabled by 2014, which could make it all too easy to be left behind. This week’s Essential Guide looks at several electronic, mobile and smartcard ticketing options, as well as other ways to speed up ticketing and reduce dwell time
I
n last week’s Go-Ahead Group super feature we looked at the effect the ‘key’ smartcard system has had on the business. Introduced in 2007, it saw extensive use from 2010 when the ITSO-compliant ‘key’ card was first launched. Go-Ahead expects the smartcard, which won a National Transport Award in 2011 for Excellence in Technology, to have half a million users by the end of the year. It is currently used in 60,000 transactions per day, dramatically reducing bus stop dwell time and stopping the waste that comes with printing off large volumes of paper tickets. It is a prime example of how ticketing is becoming much more than simply a transaction method. It was developed by VIX Technologies, one of the suppliers in the Essential Guide this week.
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Parkeon is a pioneer when it comes high tech ticketing in Britain, with some involvement in every major ITSO scheme in the country and partnered with several other firms listed here. E P Morris’ Depot Management System is a well-refined product dealing with all aspects of ticketing and reimbursement, while TransMach offer the Paycell portable ticketing system, suitable for tough environments or vehicles with little space for ticketing facilities, such as many coaches. Ticketer’s ITSO-certified smart ticketing system is seeing use on Ipswich Buses and Bristol’s Abus, where it is well regarded, as is ETMSS, which has listed several clients who have cited the firms excellent after-sales support. My Mobile Tickets offers a zero capital investment mobile ticketing service for transport operators,
easily accessible through all types of mobile phone since it makes use of SMS. Fast cash handling can also reduce stop dwell time and Cambist coin handling products can help with this, in use aboard 200,000 buses worldwide. SCAN COIN offers a flexible cash depositing system with a familiar Windows-based operating system, which also handles ticketing data. Transtrading are an option for smaller operators, allowing firms to pool resources together and make use of facilities which would otherwise be too expensive.
Parkeon
As bus operators plan for a smarter future, one ticketing technology company is leading the roll-out of the ITSO framework which is turning the vision of an integrated public transport network into reality. Parkeon is the only ticketing technology provider involved in every major ITSO scheme in operation or under development in Britain, with its advanced automatic fare collection platforms completing millions of transactions on thousands of buses crisscrossing the country every day. From Scotland to the south of England, from Wales to the east coast, Parkeon is a key partner
with bus companies of every size, delivering the benefits of a smartcard-enabled future to operators and their customers through the ITSO standard. This success results from the company’s culture of innovation, which has led to a series of industry ‘firsts’ and a market-leading line-up of ETMs, handheld devices, onstreet equipment and back-office systems developed in the UK and supported by the most extensive service network of any ticketing provider. Its on-vehicle systems enable operators to benefit from smart and GPS technology which is BSOG uplift compliant. From the moment Parkeon’s WayfarerTGX150 became the first ETM in the world to gain ITSO certification, the company has been setting the pace for ITSO implementation. The recent arrival of the Wayfarer200 driver console and WayfarerP50 handheld terminal took ticketing solutions to an operational level way beyond the issuing of tickets and the reading of smartcards, offering integration with other on-vehicle systems. In 2010, achievement of the latest ITSO v2.1.4 standard notched up another industry first. The role of Parkeon ETMs continues to expand, with dual reading for ITSO concessionary smartcards and proprietary
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commercial schemes, and top-up enabled on-bus, on-street, overthe-counter and via the internet. Moreover, in-built GPS and GPRS linked to real ime information and UTMC functionality allows operators to benefit from the BSOG GPS uplift. In the back office, Parkeon’s holistic approach extends to operational reporting, system set-up and data analysis, with what is claimed to be the industry’s most comprehensive device configuration software tools empowering customers to make device changes without recourse to Parkeon. Furthermore, Parkeon has developed a managed service which provides the ITSO back office architecture (HOPS) for individual operators, meaning bus companies are able to benefit from the BSOG uplift linked to ITSO related technologies. “All this is made possible by continuous investment in R&D, in engineering innovations and
Parkeon ticket machine (above); Two vital industry ingredients (left) in ergonomic design delivered by some of the smartest minds in the industry,” said Parkeon Transit’s managing director, Owen Griffith. “Our customers value the strength of our partnerships, which is founded on technical excellence, ongoing support and mutual trust. What also sets us apart is
our ability to work closely with customers of every size to deliver end-to-end solutions - having our teams located in the UK means we are able to understand their specific requirements and be responsive to their needs.” Parkeon’s track-record reads like a ‘Who’s Who’ of ITSO, with over 14,000 ITSO-enabled ETMs supporting schemes of every size and shape – from the UK’s highest volume urban projects such as Centro to city-wide schemes including Edinburgh, Cardiff and Newport and regional programmes covering the North East, South East, South West and, of course, the North West, the area wherethe ITSO story with NoWcard. Add to this, partnerships with operators in Cheshire, Nottinghamshire, Yorkshire, Merseyside and the south of England, and it’s clear Parkeon has a key role to play in helping the government meet its stated objective of ensuring over half of all bus journeys are
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smartcard-enabled by 2014. Owen Griffith added: “With ITSO smartcards now in much wider circulation and operators delivering significant innovations in mobile ticketing, our focus is very much on ensuring that bus companies benefit fully from their investment in ITSO architecture. With our support, fleets of every size are able to optimise operational efficiencies and draw on BSOG revenue streams.” T: 01202 339 339 W: www.parkeon.com/uk
SCAN COIN SCAN COIN’s range of automated cash depositing systems has grown over the years to provide a costeffective choice for every size of operator. It started in the late 1980s with the introduction of the CDP, a fully automated system which transformed the whole process of cash depositing throughout the industry. The latest model, the CDP 4, can be installed through the
A SCAN COIN system at Stagecoach Manchester’s Sharston depot wall or as a stand-alone unit and networked using the Windows operating system to provide seamless integration with back office coin handling equipment and cash management software. Many smaller operators handling lower coin volumes did not need the sophistication of the CDP 4. SCAN COIN’s response was to
develop a more modest system which allows operators to build their own machine by adding modules to suit their particular needs. The flexibility of the modular CDS830 means it can evolve to accommodate future changes, avoiding the need to purchase a new machine each time. As with the CDP 4, it incorporates SCAN
COIN’s advanced coin recognition technology which checks the electrical as well as physical characteristics of coins to ensure a high degree of accuracy. Both systems also share the same core SCAN COIN software for the driver interface and for cash management and reporting functions for maximum compatibility and integration. The recently introduced ’Connect CDP’ is a shorts and overs software system which reconciles cash data from the CDP, ticketing data and operator entered manual adjustments to provide fast and effective management data and revenue control. T: 0161 873 0500 E: sales@scancoin.co.uk W: www.scancoin.co.uk
Cambist Since 1969 Cambist has developed coin handling products for fare collection in public transport. Its motto has always been
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flexibility, both when it comes to satisfying customer needs and the manufacturing of their products. Together with technical engineers Cambist develops its products, which are then produced, in Cambist’s tools and moulds, by subcontractors throughout Sweden. Cambist’s offices, development and assembly units are located in Norrtälje, 60 kilometres north east of Stockholm, Sweden. The Cambist fare collection system is in use in over 200,000 buses around the world. It serves bus, train, tram and ferry companies in almost 20 countries, directly from its offices in Norrtälje. Cambist’s clients vary from companies with one up to thousands of vehicles. The Cambist coin dispenser is a well-established product in the UK. Cambist has been supplying UK public transport operators since late 70s. T: 0046 176 17245 E: info@cambist.se W: www.cambist.se
TransMach TransMach Systems is an authorised partner of CASIO and approved installer and supporter for Parkeon for the Wayfarer TGX 150 and Wayfarer 3 machines. TransMach offers a complete range of ticketing options to transport operators including Portable and On-Bus ticket machines. Customers with standalone machines can benefit by upgrading to the Wayfarer TGX 150 ITSO compliant system. The TGX 150 system is easy to use and maintain. TransMach’s comprehensive reporting system provides fast data analysis with over 40 predefined reports to give fast access to revenue and ticket information. The firm also offers a fares and configuration change service at a competitive rate for the existing Wayfarer TGX 150 and Wayfarer 3 users. TransMach offers a maintenance/repair service for the Wayfarer TGX 150 and Wayfarer 3 ticket machine and module, with quick turnaround time and at competitive rates with genuine wayfarer parts. Users can choose from a return-to-base or on-site maintenance service. The low cost PayCell portable system is suitable for school runs, sightseeing operation, services run
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by coaches (no space to fit an onbus machine), queue busting, dial-aride service and more. The machine is capable of issuing different ticket types, i.e. single/return, day, weekly or 10/12 journey, with the operator’s logo and greeting information. The machine features a 2.5 inch screen, 16 button backlit keypad and detachable lithium-ion battery. Recently, TransMach launched the new CASIO IT-9000 all-in-one portable ticketing system for paper tickets, smart cards, 1D & 2D barcode scanning and Chip & Pin applications. The IT-9000 features a lithium-ion battery (operating period approximately 20 hours), integrated high speed thermal printer, NFC (smart card) reader and writer, barcode reader with high speed and accuracy, GPS and HSDPA – capable 3G with high speed data transfer and high memory capacity. The IT-9000 can withstand drops of up to 1.5 metres and features a 3.7 inch colour LCD touch screen which delivers excellent visibility both indoors and outdoors, making it suitable for deployment in challenging environments. The customer will see benefits by: n Accepting Chip & Pin cards onsite meaning extra passengers who want to pay by card; n Introducing smart cards which reduce maintenance costs, eliminate cash handling and increase revenue; n Scanning barcodes on board to reduce fraud by validating web bookings Operators can choose from these application/s depending on their requirements. TranMach offers the IT-9000 with a complete bespoke solution with full a backoffice system. It also provides full training on the software suite and the machine. Free telephone and remote dial-in support comes as standard. Ticket rolls and other consumables are also available from stock for next day delivery. T: 020 8861 1946 E: sales@transmach.co.uk W: www.transmach.co.uk
ETMSS Ltd Whether an operator is looking for a new ticketing system, fare updates for an existing system (including Wayfarer 3), or looking to purchase ticket rolls, ETMSS can help. Established 10 years
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ago, ETMSS has built up a solid reputation, as cited by three recipients below: ”We were the first customer of David Price at ETMSS. Since those early days, we have built an extremely close working relationship with the whole team. Despite severe pressure and high demands from us they have always delivered on time and on budget. Such is the level of customer care, support has always been offered even at weekends. For Wayfarer 3 help, advice, support and consumables they are exceptionally hard to beat.” - David, Beestons (Hadleigh) Ltd. ”We are currently using Wayfarer 3 ticket equipment. ETMSS has provided us with exemplary after market sales support which has proven invaluable on many occasions.” - David Stuart, Norse Commercial Services Ltd. ”Community Transport South Wiltshire has been using Palm hand held ticket machines for well over a year. I would recommend
this ticket machine to all public bus operators who need a portable ticketing device. It is of robust construction, very reliable, and easy to use. Our drivers prefer them to the fixed machines as it gives more room in the cab and the ticket rolls can be changed with ease. ETMSS Ltd provides an excellent back up facility and can adapt Palm ticket machines to meet varied customer needs.” - Barry Coombs, general manager. T: 0844 800 9299 E: info@etmsss.com
My Mobile Tickets Last year, Mobile Onboard launched My Mobile Tickets – a zero capital investment mobile ticketing service for transport operators. Passengers can sign up for the service in seconds enabling them to purchase their tickets online and download them directly to their mobile phone. Passengers can also maintain a “mobile wallet” which allows them
to get tickets on-demand using an SMS text message when they decide they want to travel – a bit like a Carnet – and without the need for cash. After completing the quick sign-up process passengers can have their day or season ticket loaded onto their phone within a couple of minutes. They can pay by debit or credit card or by PayPal, and optionally top-up their mobile wallet for future on-demand purchases. Direct debit and bank transfer options are coming soon. They only need to sign-up once with My Mobile Tickets and can then buy tickets from any of the partnered operators, with no requirement to download any app onto the phone. Phil Stockley, Velvet’s managing director explained: “Using My Mobile Tickets means our passengers can now purchase their season tickets online with a credit or debit card, something we didn’t previously offer, so it will also reduce the amount of cash our
drivers have to handle.” Matthew Poole, director of technology for Mobile Onboard, said: “While it’s true operators cannot ignore smartcard technology, particularly with respect to eligibility for subsidies, it can be a costly and time consuming business to get up and running. Our mobile ticketing solution compliments this by offering a zero capital investment option, whilst having the ability to integrate directly at real-time, with operators’ back end systems, if required, through our powerful e-commerce platform.” T: 0844 357 2650 W: www.mymobiletickets.com
Transtrading Transtrading was formed in late 2011 by Jo Pavely (previously head of procurement and fleet for Veolia Transport UK). The idea was to offer customers back office solutions without the expense
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involved employing full time staff. Whether it’s a purchasing manager which is required to get better deals, or a management accountant to set up KPI reporting and monitor extremes, Transtrading can help. Whilst Jo Pavely was working in the transport industry, it was apparent the smaller operators were not able to secure the best deals and benefits which were open to the larger operators. Transtrading aims to pool small operators together to secure savings and improve profit. From fuel to stationary, it has deals which can save operators’ money. The idea of the monthly ticketing machines came from number of smaller operators showing an interest in moving to TGX 150 and benefiting from the 8% BSOG increase by becoming ITSO compliant. The drawback for them all was the infrastructure and back office costs involved in the process. Transtrading, in conjunction with Parkeon, offer a fixed price monthly ticketing solution, including all hardware, software, maintenance and back office functions, giving the operator all of the benefits without the high capital investment cost needed to become ITSO compliant. Jo Pavely said: “Many councils are insisting on ITSO compliance for vehicles but not giving the length of contract needed to make the investment worthwhile. Coupled with the 20% BSOG cut which took effect on April 1, many operators will soon feel the repercussions. We believe by offering this service we can help minimise the effect and bring the TGX 150 technology to them” The TGX 150 system has proven reliability and usability within the industry and is available on short term rental contracts on fixed monthly price plans without any hidden costs. T: 0845 862 8200 E: info@transtrading.co.uk W: www.transtrading.co.uk
E P Morris Electronic ticket machine data is introducing new aspects to the collection of revenue. In addition to cash it affects revenue in respect of concessionary fares, commercial smartcard, EMV (Europay Mastercard Visa), minimum cost and minimum subsidy tenders. The Depot Performance System deals with all these aspects within www.coachandbusweek.com
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English BSOG incentives for the installation of ITSO compliant ETMs and AVL are aware that they need to provide evidence of the passenger activity by commercial and ENCTS passengers. The ETM Analysis Module provides this report on demand. In the same vein E P Morris can also analyse the ETM data across individual journeys (whole or at part stage level) to calculate the BSOG arising from tendered operations which may prove relevant if the current indications from the DfT come into force. T: 01527 556 940 E: epm@epmorris.co.uk W: www.epmorris.co.uk
The Depot Performance System offered by E P Morris an integrated database. The ETM data loader ensures the value of travel against each boarding can be analysed between on-bus cash, cards and off-bus entitlements. These values can then be processed appropriately. The total value of travel is the controlling figure - the sum of the eventual receipts reflects the discounts applied to each category of passenger. The most obvious source of revenue to control is the on-bus cash, whether driver accountable or vaulted, which must be reconciled to the ETM cash sales, with the cash counted by CDS, manually processed or paid direct into banks by the drivers. This process has been refined over the last 30 years and the depot revenue reconciliation system and cash tracker modules ensure the costs of handling cash are minimised whilst the controls are strong. The facility of paying with EMV which has already been trialled does introduce an interesting concept where the method of payment for each transaction must be determined. At the end of each duty the driver must account for the cash transitions and post the EMV transactions to a control account, ensuring reimbursement is subsequently received from the credit card consolidators. On-bus payment for travel with commercial smartcards requires a different approach. Most systems provide for the loading of the electronic purse in advance, so the operator must be sure the payment is received, either by credit from online agencies or cash from sales outlets and agents, or received on bus. The next stage of the routine is
to establish the value of travel and any multi journey discounts to find the revenue earned and the balance of travel entitlement remaining on the card. This is not dissimilar to the accounting regulations which applied to multi journey or season tickets preceding the smartcards. However the maintenance of the balance is now much more precise. The ETM Analysis Module facilitates the analysis of these revenue sources and can be configured to each operators specific circumstances. The other sources of revenue dependent upon the output from ETMs are handled by specific modules within the Depot Performance System. The concessionary analysis module has been re-written to incorporate the latest pronouncements from the DfT. This module is utilised by operators to establish their entitlement and by authorities and their advisers to calculate their liabilities. It is apparent the system must be viable to satisfy both sides. The Contract Performance Module enables operators and authorities to maintain a register of tenders, utilise ETM data for validation and calculate the entitlement after penalties for lost mileage have been applied. The Depot Performance System also includes modules to check for schedule adherence and vehicle compliance to the contract through the information available from the ETM download. This enables operators and the sponsors to monitor their performance and provide key performance information through journey validation. Finally, operators claiming the
Ticketer Ticketer’s “smart” ticketing system, designed to capitalise on the latest technologies, is enjoying everincreasing success and delivering enhanced BSOG recovery (8% for ITSO smartcard support, 2% for location) to its rapidly growing band of customers, both large and small. The ITSO certified system comprises a software-based, touchscreen ETM connected via mobile networks to Ticketer’s hosted servers. Management and reporting is done via the Ticketer portal, designed for ease of use and requiring no specialist knowledge whatsoever. The system is accessible from any web browser, removing all depot infrastructure and cost. Ticketer handles all software updates, HOPS integration, remote monitoring and even initial data loading as part of the annual, per vehicle, licence fee. There are no other charges, even for the live tracking provided as part of the package and Ticketer operators are managing their ticketing without any need for external support or cost. Ipswich Buses has extensive experience of running a Ticketer system. Malcolm Robson, managing director, said: “We are running both Concessionary and Commercial ITSO cards. From the outset our drivers have found the new Ticketer system so easy and reliable. It’s been a long time since we could forget about ticket machine issues.” Ticketer was appointed as the onbus ETM supplier under the recent SWSAL Framework agreement and successfully rolled-out “smart” ticketing to multiple mid-size and smaller operators across the region. Alan Peters, managing
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director of Abus in Bristol, said: “We were under real time pressure to get the fleet installed and running ITSO ‘smart.’ I had my doubts, but we went live on time, and without problem, thanks to Ticketer – whose level of service and support has been impressive throughout.” Most recently Ticketer has won the Tender for smart ETMs for both Yorcard and NESTI and has already gone live with smart ticketing with operators in the region. T: (+44) 020 319 58800 E: info@ticketer.org.uk W: www.ticketer.org.uk/
Vix Technology Vix Technology is a leading provider of fare management, passenger information and fleet management systems for public transport operators around the world. 2012 is proving to be an exciting year for Vix in the UK with the roll out of smart card technology continuing apace. There is expansion to a
number of schemes including Go-Ahead’s “the key” and also with Stagecoach launching the first integrated bus and rail smart card initiative. Both of these major projects, as well as a number of regional and local smart card initiatives, are enabled by Vix smart ticketing equipment. Vix is continuing to support the Go-Ahead expansion of its awardwinning smartcard “the key” with the latest roll out to Go South Coast in Bournemouth. Vix’s TP5700 smartcard ticket machines are being installed on all of Go-Ahead’s 2,000 buses outside London and on parts of its Southern and London Midland rail franchises. In all, 140,000 passengers are now actively using the smart card with 60,000 journeys made outside of London every day. Vix Technology’s smart ticket machines allow passengers to pre-pay for a range of travel options and simply “touch” their smart card over the Vix card readers when getting on board the vehicle,
making it simpler to travel. In addition, Vix are supporting Stagecoach in delivering an innovative smart ticketing scheme which allows passengers to travel by bus and rail on one single smart card. The smart ticketing pilot in Basingstoke, Hampshire, is one of the UK’s first commercial multi-modal applications of the Governmentpreferred ITSO technology. The system uses a combination of Vix TP5000 smart ticket machines on buses, with Vix P5700 rail platform validators and Cubic rail gates with readers at the station. The new pilot scheme involves a small number of South West Trains season ticket holders travelling between Basingstoke, UK and any smart card enabled station outside of the London area. A rail season ticket and a Stagecoach South Megarider multi-journey bus ticket giving unlimited bus travel in and around the town are stored on one smart card. The integrated bus-rail pilot will be gradually expanded over the
coming months to include more passengers and further areas. This represents a significant step towards the vision of transport minister Norman Baker - to have all public transport covered by smart card technology by 2020. Just last year saw Vix support the launch of the Oxford City wide “Smart Zone” which is the first to enable passengers to travel on main bus routes from multiple operators, including vehicles from both Oxford Bus (Go Ahead) and Stagecoach, with a single smart card. Peter Eccleson, director of Vix Technology’s UK Region, said: “We are delighted Vix is at the forefront of providing smart ticketing to UK operators. We are proud to be supporting initiatives making it easier for people to travel on public transport by using one smart card for journeys, regardless of operator or transport mode.” T: 01223 728 700 W: http://vixtechnology.
com/
Tel: 0203 195 8800 Email: info@ticketer.org.uk www.ticketer.org.uk www.coachandbusweek.com
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DEPOT PERFORMANCE SYSTEM Depot Revenue Reconciliation System Cash Tracker ETM Analysis Concessionary Analysis Contract Performance Schedule Adherence Vehicle Compliance
E P Morris & Company Limited Tel: 01527 556940 Fax: 01527 556941 www.epmorris.co.uk
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event preview › cv show
What’s in store at the CV Show 2012 Coach & Bus Week’s Martin Cole and Alex Tyler highlight what some of the industry’s well-known suppliers will show at next week’s Commercial Vehicle Show www.coachandbusweek.com
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ritain’s largest and most comprehensive road transport event will be held at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC) in Birmingham between April 24 and 26 next week. While the Commercial Vehicle (CV) Show is not a dedicated bus and coach exhibition, many of the products and services which will be promoted are certainly of relevance to bus and coach operators. Put simply, the event benefits from the resources available to the commercial vehicle sector, which is arguably immense compared to the traditional bus and coach industry. To put it into perspective, the
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EVENT: CV Show 2012 WHEN: April 24-26 LOCATION: NEC, Birmingham DETAILS: 01634 360 514 www.cvshow.com
tonne vehicle lift. Back to the bus and coach side, you’ll find more about the minibuses on pages 42 to 45.
Lombard
Lombard has identified a reduction in investment in the passenger transportation sector during the economic downturn. Industry statistics show the average age of the UK bus fleet has risen from 8.6 years in 2006 to 9.2 years in 2010. “However, we believe that this trend is set to change in 2012,” says Derek Pridmore, head of commercial transportation, Lombard. “Lombard’s specialist commercial transportation team has observed small and medium sized passenger transport operators recognise running older vehicles means significantly higher maintenance and running costs. “From December 31, 2013 Euro 6 will be introduced. This is a considerable step up from the previous emissions standards and there will be corresponding cost to implement the necessary changes, estimated at £8k for the average vehicle. At Lombard we have specially designed packages to meet the needs of bus and coach operators,” he continued. Full details of funding options for bus and coach operators can be discussed on the Lombard stand at the CV Show.
Stertil Koni
CV Show’s 424 exhibitors will be taking just over 27,000sq m of space in four halls. The 2012 event will be 10% bigger, with 50 more exhibitors than in 2011, when the CV Show made a welcome return after a two-year absence. Visitor pre-registrations are also 5% up on the same period in 2011, when 16,100 visitors crammed into two halls of the NEC. If you’re an engineer, don’t forget the associated Workshop Show, which is flanked on either side by the formidable CV Show. Workshop claims to be the largest and most comprehensive automotive aftermarket event held in Britain, displaying any product from the smallest car component to a 44
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Stertil Koni, stand 2A70, has boosted its range of vehicle lifting equipment with the introduction of a new mobile column lift - the ST1075. The 7.5 tonne capacity
ST1075 has been designed to replace two previous models, rated at 6 tonnes and 7.25 tonnes and manufactured and supplied by Stertil Koni since 2005. Available in both wireless and cabled specifications, the ST1075 can be supplied in sets of 4, 6 or 8 columns, providing total lifting capacities up to 60 tonnes. It provides low maintenance, electro-hydraulic operation and only requires power for the lifting element whilst separate mechanical interlocks ensure axle stands are not required. Most models feature a slow lowering speed and 350mm forks are included as standard with a generous ‘column to vehicle’ distance of 255mm.
Cobra UK
Cobra UK, stand 2C91, is showcasing Global Live, a system offering operators a unique way to combat the ever increasing incidence of load interception and theft, while protecting drivers and passengers. The system also affords extra security for VIPs in transit, and protects assets from vandalism on late night bus routes. The new CCTV-based telematics system allows operators to watch over their vehicles 24/7 whether they’re out on the road or parked, and should an event occur, enables firms to react immediately and intervene in real time. In-vehicle cameras monitor the cabin and load areas 24/7, audibly and visually. External cameras protect the vehicle and its load from thieves, can be used to monitor driving standards, and crucially the footage is admissible as evidence in court in the event of an incident.
The number and position of cameras can be tailored to suit individual requirements. Global Live works by providing high quality CCTV images of vehicles, assets and employees streamed in real time via low cost 3G networks, combined with GPS tracking, which enables pinpoint location of the vehicle at any time. Operators can choose to selfmonitor the CCTV footage or upgrade to Global Live’s monitoring services, where personnel at the Cobra Secure Operating Centre (SOC) can view and download live images and data of a vehicle en route or when parked. The SOC is highly trained in handling duress situations, so should an incident occur, operatives can raise and manage the situation with the emergency services. The SOC is also able to remotely lock or unlock the cab or trailer doors and can prevent a vehicle’s ignition from being re-started once the vehicle has come to a standstill. Global Live CCTV footage can also help operators combat issues such as fuel theft, load pilfering and staged accidents. The system may also help reduce insurance premiums, and is equally suitable for the monitoring and protection of remote or unmanned sites, such as storage depots. Customers can further personalise the system in a number of ways, including personal attack buttons for drivers and enhanced infrared cameras. In addition to Global Live, Cobra will be exhibiting a diverse range of cost effective automotive safety and security products including: Cobra anti-theft alarms and parking sensors, CobraTrak stolen vehicle tracking, aftermarket Bluetooth handsfree systems, speed limiters, and a range of reversing camera systems.
LED Autolamps
The new ST 1075 mobile column lifts from Stertil Koni
LED Autolamps, manufacturer of LED lighting systems, is showing and demonstrating its new product on Stand 3E70. Its enlarged 2012 catalogue contains a number of new LED product ranges for fleets, van converters, mobile workshops, work and utility service vehicles. They include a heavy duty harness system incorporating patented Push-and-Seal connectors rated to IP67, which integrate with LED Autolamps’ ranges of LED rear cluster lamps and marker lights. A technical brochure gives clear instructions about their
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preview › cv show
simple but effective installation – enabling quick and foolproof wiring of vehicles or trailers. The wiring system from LED Autolamps’ range totals only 20 part numbers for cables and connectors. Also new are LED work lamps delivering high light output where low voltage is required. All models are powered by 3.0 watt high brightness LEDs and operate from a 10-30 Volt supply. With durable aluminium housings and polycarbonate lenses, they are available in black or white and come with a three-year warranty.
CMS Supatrak
CMS SupaTrak, stand 3E99, is offering free fuel saving consultations, as well as running on stand demonstrations of its flagship EcoTrak, SupaTrak and JobTrak telematics system. EcoTrak offers driver behaviour management, SupaTrak is live GPS vehicle tracking, and the JobTrak encompasses mobile working, job scheduling and in-cab communications. The company is keen to engage with operators about free fuel saving trials.
Eminox
Eminox is launching a new device designed to deter the theft of catalytic converters. Increasing incidents of catalyst theft are causing considerable expense to vehicle operators. If a batch of vehicles is attacked it is likely an operator could not get immediate replacements for all the vehicles at once. Eminox also aims to provide advice on LEZ compliance for those still wanting to convert older vehicles in line with the latest regulations introduced in January this year.
Tachosys
Tachosys will make its fifth appearance at the CV Show in 2012, demonstrating the whole concept of remote download. This technology claims to save companies hundreds of man hours. Companies adopting digiD no longer need waste time manually downloading vehicle tachographs or collecting driver card data as digiD will do all of this in the background. The customer decides a schedule for vehicles and driver cards and the rest happens automatically with data arriving at www.coachandbusweek.com
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the desired location. Tachosys will also show prototypes of its next generation of products, including hardware and applications for the latest Smartphones and Tablets.
Baumot UK
To help truck and coach operators comply with the latest Low Emission Zone (LEZ) regulations from January 3, 2012 and avoid heavy penalty charges, Baumot UK offers diesel particulate filters (DPFs), approved by TfL. Baumot UK is a global specialist in exhaust after-treatment. Its filters are certified by DTI (Denmark), TUV/KBA (Germany), RDW (Holland), MIT (Italy), VERT (Switzerland) and EPA (USA). Vehicles using Baumot’s DPFs can enter LEZs throughout Europe. At the CV Show, the company will explain its DPF solutions for LEZ non-compliant vehicles. The Baumot DPF system combusts the soot particles collected in the filter ‘passively’ so they require no additives or additional running costs. The filters have a two-year warranty and are equipped with an ECU to measure the exhaust back pressure and report on any potential issues before they arise.
CV Show:
speedy entry
Entrance to the Commercial Vehicle Show and Workshop 2012 will be speeded up thanks to a new e-ticket entry system. Visitors to the show can pre-register at www. cvshow.com and immediately receive their barcoded entry ticket. Just as with most airlines, they will simply need to print their ticket and bring it to the show, where it will be scanned at the entrance. By adopting this ‘green ticket’ process, the CV Show will considerably reduce its carbon footprint, in line with the road transport industry’s objectives. For the very few visitors without online access, telephone registration will be available on 01634 360 514.
Air1
Air1 will be at the CV Show with the latest AdBlue bulk and packaged products. Representatives from the Air1 team will answer questions regarding AdBlue and its associated packages and promote the Air1 App. In 2011, Air1 launched the first AdBlue mobile locator application for Android and Apple mobile devices. The Air1 AdBlue App from Yara provides quick and reliable information on the closest AdBlue retail outlets and uses GPS technology to identify the filling station closest to a driver’s location. Visitors to Air1’s stand can receive a free touch screen pen (while stocks last) by downloading the Air1App and discussing their AdBlue requirements.
Trakm8
Truckfile
Magic Internet Technologies, developer of Truckfile - an internet system storing the compliance, maintenance and legal documentation for 100,000 vehicles and 17,000 operators of HGVs in the UK and Ireland, plus over 400 workshops delivering a variety of digital maintenance and compliance documentation to the system. Truckfile is launching an app for the drivers daily walk around check. Paul Clarke, Truckfile’s MD, said: “This is the first app of many. It will see a quick reduction in use of paper-based systems. Creating a communication of information to a central managed portal from a single flexible device, it also enables us to add interfaces such as navigation and tyre pressure monitoring using smart phones. Of course, the question arises about using such devices safely. Manufacturers and Government want to limit complexity of tasks and off-road glances. This may lead to disabling certain in-vehicle electronic devices while cars are in motion, like manual text messaging,
manual Internet browsing, and manual social media browsing. We therefore need to find ways of communicating information without distraction such as text to speech and ‘heads up’ displays. ”
Part of the comprehensive range of lighting fitments available from LED Autolamps
Trakm8 is launching its driver behaviour module. This module can be used to improve operational fleet fuel efficiencies with either of Trakm8’s tracking units, the T8 and the recently launched T8 mini. The module is situated on the dash and gives the driver visual feedback through Red-AmberGreen traffic light indicators which
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Join the discussion on Twitter by following us at @cbwtweets and find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/coachandbusweek reflect their driving style in real time; highlighting areas for safer, more fuel-efficient driving including braking and acceleration, cornering, over revving, idling and speeding. The information is fed directly to the driver and in a customised report to fleet managers. By making subtle changes to driving styles and behaviour, Trakm8 customers have reported significant improvements in fuel usage and cost-reduction.
Bridgestone
Bridgestone is running free daily seminars on the industry’s hottest topics from its stand. For the first time, visitors can get advice and join the debate on wheel security (cost and consequences), the future of fuel efficiency and how to save money through improving tyre maintenance. John Folliss, Bridgestone’s commercial sales and marketing director, said: “These seminars have been specially created as part of our drive to help fleets reduce costs and improve efficiencies. They cover some of the biggest issues facing the industry over the next 12-18 months.”
Tachodisc
Tachodisc, stand 3E30, recently launched Tachotrain, which serves to modernise the way assessment training can be delivered in the road transport industry. The virtual training area contains a series of
online multiple choice tests, which have been devised by Tachodisc’s legislative training experts; subjects include Drivers’ Hours Law, Road Transport Directive and Road Worthiness. These provide companies with the unique ability to periodically test and assess drivers’ knowledge on key legislative subjects. Karen Crispe, Tachodisc’s managing director, says: “Tachotrain gives companies the flexibility to schedule testing around work schedules from any location – a PC and internet connection is all that is required. The tests are also a great tool for hiring managers, allowing candidates’ knowledge to be quickly assessed during recruitment.” Tachotrain has also been designed to securely hold a complete record of staff qualifications and ongoing training requirements. It automatically tracks, identifies and notifies line managers of re-validations and training needs by employee, job type, depot, location and reporting line. Tachotrain’s reporting functions also allow companies to plan, track trends and identify areas of improvement, thus enabling Driver CPC and general training budgets to be deployed more cost-effectively.
Squarell Technology
Squarell Technology will present its new range of advanced telematics products at the CV Show. These are now available from its 250 partners
in 30 countries. Field tests of its revolutionary Driver Awareness Panel have documented returns of between 8%-14% improvement in mpg. The device has state of the art algorithms that respond live to indicate how the vehicle is being driven. Its intelligent IT sets its own parameters, based on automatically detecting the driving style of the driver within a few miles. Squarell will also announce a first for GPS modem manufacturers, offering them the opportunity to put its proven technology inside their tracking device, creating a one box solution, or in a dongle format.
Telogis
Telogis, the platform for location intelligence, has introduced its Driver Scorecard. The Telogis Fleet Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) fleet management system makes it easier to manage and communicate behaviour which directly influences driver and asset safety. The system offers extensive metrics, configured to each fleet, enabling companies to identify trends in driving behaviour and allowing them to improve safety and reduce the time and costs associated with accidents. This is valuable for potential insurance discounts, reducing workers’ compensation claims and to improve vehicle maintenance. Telogis Driver Scorecard reports on activities critical to driver
safety, including hard braking or acceleration, excessive speeding, after-hours use and seatbelt use. Reports are configurable to show daily, weekly and monthly trends. InSight Alerts can also be programmed for real-time feedback to supervisors.
TRW
TRW Automotive Aftermarket will carry out regular demonstrations of its tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS) throughout this year’s CV Show to illustrate the system’s safety and cost saving benefits. Figures released by the Sécurité Routière (French institution for road safety) show 9% of all fatal road accidents are attributable to tyre under-inflation and, according to German safety consultant DEKRA, 41% of accidents with physical injuries are linked to tyre problems. The TPMS display gives real-time warnings of any problems like rapid deflation due to a puncture, allowing action to be taken before an accident occurs or there is any serious damage to the vehicle.
A.I.D Fuel Card Services
A fuel card system through AID Fuel Card Services allows businesses to choose their account features – including online account management showing companies all the data which is held on the card. This includes where and when a drawing has occurred, what product has been drawn, in what quantity and at what site. It is also possible to request copy invoices and stop cards. AID Fuel Card Services offers different fuel card systems that can be managed through one account, so fleets of all sizes with varying refuelling criteria can be accommodated.
CILT
Left: Michelin SaverGreen tyre Above: Tachodisc reports
The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) has 18,000 individual members in logistics, supply chain and transport. CILT provides a professional qualification structure with a combination of academic study and practical experience. The Institute offers a range of membership opportunities from Affiliate to Chartered Fellow, recognises courses and training events which meet its criteria and
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provides a range of professional development courses. At this year’s CV Show, CILT will provide details of its membership facilities and the range of study and course facilities available to achieve membership qualifications.
will promote best practice in van fleets across the UK and Ireland, helping managers understand how technology can underpin efforts to achieve Van Excellence Status. A spokesman for the company said another ‘significant’ announcement would come in the week leading up to the show.
The IRTE
The IRTE (Institute of Road Transport Engineers) will use its CV Show presence to demonstrate the importance of evolving and recognising skills and the industry’s key component – its people. Chief executive Nick Jones explains: “The IRTE hopes exhibitors will place significant emphasis on the skills of engineering professionals, as it does on the vital products, services and innovations on offer. These four features will ensure our industry will continue to exceed the challenges placed on us”. IRTE will also welcome the irtec Awards to its stand, to celebrate the highest scoring irtec technicians in the country. Jointly run by IRTE and IMI Awards, irtec is now seen as the premier independent scheme assessing the competence of commercial vehicle, trailer and passenger carrying technicians. Other exhibitors offering skills and training advice are The Manchester College and S&B Automotive Academy. Both organisations will highlight opportunities for skills development, and see the CV Show as the perfect forum to boost confidence in engineering ability, as well as products. Chief executive of Bristolbased S&B Automotive Academy Jon Winter says: “A successful commercial vehicle sector relies on the skill, competence and professionalism of its people, and this must be maintained as technology gets more sophisticated and competition increases.” The Road Haulage Association will offer advice on Driver CPC training and the CILT will explain its professional qualification training structure that combines academic study and practical experience.
Alcolock UK
Around 18% of all road accident fatalities are a result of drink driving. Alcolock GB can help protect vehicles whether they are a private car or business vehicle or even expensive machinery. The company will demonstrate its www.coachandbusweek.com
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Senior Flexonics
Alcolock prevents a vehicle moving unless the driver has a clear reading system at the CV Show. Alcolock’s breathalyser, when connected to an immobiliser, can disable a vehicle until a breath sample indicates that it is safe to proceed. This level is determined by each company’s alcohol policy. For businesses that require closer monitoring, a live web-based management system and instant alerts are also offered.
OSS Group
OSS Group provides a nationwide collection service for waste mineral oil as well as other workshop hazardous waste. At the CV Show, it will offer a range of workshop waste collection deals and new workshop products. The company is also introducing a new parts washer. This is a revised version of its ‘big sink’ model, designed specifically for commercial vehicle workshops. It has a larger than standard sink (1000mm x 704mm) and a built-in distillation system. This unique micro refinery allows solvent to be 100% clean as residual dirt is separated and clean solvent returned to a the tank. The cleansed solvent can be reused many times. Adding to its increasing range of workshop products, OSS Group can now provide aqueous brake cleaners, low hazard de-rusting solutions, paint gun cleaners and automatic hotwash.
ExxonMobil
ExxonMobil’s range of Mobil Delvac commercial vehicle lubricants have been shown in independent testing to reduce fuel costs and extend vehicle life.
The recorded fuel economy benefits have the potential for fleet operators to make significant savings over a 12-month period. For example, a company operating a fleet of 30 HGV trucks may save nearly £40,000 a year by switching from mineral-based products to Mobil Delvac flagship lubricants. Steve Crawley, UK and Ireland commercial vehicle lubricants manager, ExxonMobil Lubricants and Petroleum Specialties, said: “Alongside proven fuel economy benefits of Mobil Delvac drivetrain lubricants, the superior performance of synthetic lubricants provides extended engine and component protection, which may enable truck operators cost-effectively to extend the running-life of their fleet.”
TomTom
A year on from its launch at last year’s CV Show, TomTom Business Solutions showcases its OptiDrive and Active Driver Feedback at stand 3C10. Following TomTom’s recent ventures into telematics-based insurance, experts will be on hand to discuss the applications and possible savings for business, as well as the potential for future tieups with the insurance industry. TomTom provides the technology behind insurance products in both the consumer and business markets, having struck deals with Motaquote and Equity Red Star. Finally, details will be available for TomTom’s newly-forged partnership with the FTA, as part of the organisation’s Van Excellence programme. The market-leading supplier of fleet management systems
Senior Flexonics UK designs, develops and manufactures heat exchange solutions for the diesel engine and energy generation markets bring the latest patented cooler technology to the Commercial Vehicle Show. By adopting a solutions approach, the company utilises its vast application engineering skills to deliver highly innovative, bespoke and cost-effective engineered solutions to a diverse market. Its products include exhaust gas recirculation coolers for diesel engines, cabin heaters for the bus industry and cathode air preheaters which operate at 1,000ºC used in fuel cell micro CHP systems. Its products are designed and validated through FEA, CFD and are subjected to thorough testing to ensure excellent performance and durable, lifelong functionality.
AA DriveTech
AA DriveTech, the commercial driver development arm of the AA, is promoting its range of Driver CPC courses, which has expanded considerably since its debut at last year’s show. “We want our courses to deliver real business benefits and not just tick the Driver CPC box”, says Jason Vallint, director of AA DriveTech’s Commercial and Passenger Vehicle Division. “We’ve gone to great lengths to create courses which provide real value for even the most experienced drivers and do far more than just ensure they are compliant with regulations.” Apart from detailed information about the courses being available from the stand there will also be a facility allowing visitors to book courses online at the show using AA DriveTech’s new Driver CPC online booking system, either for individual drivers or groups of drivers at ‘open’ training sessions nationwide. As an interesting diversion from Driver CPC, the AA is also displaying its 1905 Renault Phaeton veteran car on an adjacent stand, 3D53.
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Follow the leaders... ...benefit from the alcohol activated vehicle immobiliser for the Bus and Coach industry
r The Alcolock® Lion DS®-10 has been adopted by UK market leaders.
The vehicle engine will not start if the driver’s alcohol level is over a pre-set limit
r It is already a proven deterrent for the ‘morning after’ drink-driving scenario. r Individual vehicle readings can be transmitted transmitt mitted d li live liv v nology no y so in the h to base via internet or mobile technology ncy can be ncy e event of a driver failure a contingency implemented quickly.
Learn more at our new website at: www.alcolockgb.com
Tel: 01480 290071
Ray McAlle (General Manager) Mobile: 07530 387394 Office: 01793 613122 Fax: 01793 840514 Email: info@paulclarkservices.co.uk Web:www.paulclarkservices.co.uk
36 | COACH & BUS WEEK | April 18, 2012
THE BIG PICTURE
This delightful, if rather different ‘artistic’ scene was caught on camera by Editor Gareth Evans at 1725hrs on Tuesday March 13, 2012. It was taken through the window of a Go-Ahead Groupoperated Southern class 377 ‘Electrostar’ train approaching London Victoria station while he was returning to Peterborough from visiting Crawley-based Metrobus. An unidentified Jonckheere-bodied Volvo coach is seen crossing the A3216 Chelsea Bridge. With the attractive sunset gleaming on the Thames, note the pedestrian on the bridge, the bird in the sky and three tower blocks which seem to drop neatly between the cables, while the neighbouring Albert Bridge can just be glimpsed in the background. The moment was recorded purely by chance – as ever, Gareth’s camera was at the ready to capture anything which caught his eye.
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minibus The essential read for Minibus Operators
April 2012
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See you at the CV Show
M
inibus operators planning to visit this year’s CV Show, 24-26 April at the NEC, should have even more to occupy them than in previous years. Some of the main vehicle manufacturers are bringing their latest in-house products to the show and the long established tradition of five or six minibuses on the Eberspacher stand is being emulated by rival climate control specialist Webasto. Combined with all the exhibitors covering the operational side of the business and those with workshop, maintenance, tools and equipment on show, there’s more than enough to keep visitors busy all day. Some of the OEMs still have no official minibus product on their Euro 5 platforms.They don’t issue concrete reasons for this and say they’ve had to change the specification a number of
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times during the development phase. I’m not sure they are being entirely honest here. I suspect these projects are not so ‘in-house’ as is made out. More likely a favoured conversion specialist has yet to achieve compliance with Type Approval (TA). Current loopholes in TA legislation still permit vehicles to be registered as vans and then converted and registered under COIF – but I can’t see the manufacturers actually wanting to pursue this route. They have produced cars and vans under TA for a number of years, so its continued application to converted products bearing the manufacturer’s brand name would seem a logical path. Martin Cole Editor
CONTENTS 40
News
Mountain Goat marks 40th anniversary; Mellor gains Type Approved 31-seater; new UNVI for Bliss Travel; and Stanford delivers eight Ducatos
42
Preview: CV Show 2012
The run down on what minibus manufacturers and suppliers willl showcase at the CV Show
48
Mercedes-Benz expansion
Dortmund’s expanded production facility caters for Sprinter demand - especially the lowfloor City
54
Unimog workhorse
A Mecedes-Benz Unimog in a harsh environment
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news
1972
The year Lake District tour specialist Mountain Goat was launched
10,500
The size in square metres of the MercedesBenz minibus plant in Dortmund
Mountain Goat - 40 years serving the Lake District Well-known Lake District minibus tour operator begins a series of events to mark birthday On March 31, one of the Lake District’s iconic tour specialists, Mountain Goat Ltd, celebrated its 40th anniversary by re-enacting the route its very first bus took, from Bowness Pier, over the Kirkstone Pass and on to Glenridding. Mountain Goat built its business on the motto ‘It’s Better By Goat’. It launched on Good Friday, 1972, after its founder, Chris Taylor, had experienced an entrepreneurial ‘lightbulb’ moment and perceived public transport options to be shrinking. He bought a bus and decked it out with a fancy livery, enthusiastically distributed leaflets to advertise the service, but was disappointed to find not one passenger at either Bowness Pier or Windermere station. He was still travelling solo over the Kirkstone Pass, but his luck changed at the top, when the landlord of the Kirkstone Pass Inn rushed out to christen the bus with a bottle of champagne. Round the next bend, he picked up two French passengers and took them to Glenridding, though to this day, he still thinks they wanted to go to Windermere! The rest is history. The re-enacted journey started in glorious sunshine at Bowness, before the party reached the top of
New Saturday service in West Cumbria
A new minibus service has been launched in West Cumbria, between Seascale railway station and Wasdale Head, via Gosforth, Nether Wasdale and Wastwater YHA. The service currently runs on
a cold and windy Kirkstone Pass, where the current landlord kindly followed in the footsteps of his predecessor and presented them with another bottle of champagne. The party, composed of friends, family and employees of Mountain Goat, then headed to Ullswater, where Ullswater Steamers’ Rachel Bell and Mark Horton joined them for the cutting of a 40th anniversary cake made by the Lindeth Howe Country House Hotel in Bowness. Mountain Goat is planning a series of celebratory events to mark its 40 years of operation and hopes local people will come forward with
material which pieces together Mountain Goat history in the context of life in the Lake District from 1972 to 2012. Items which might be uncovered include photographs of Mountain Goat vehicles in various locations, accounts of memorable trips taken by Mountain Goat and possibly branded memorabilia. Newspaper clippings and anything relating to the launch day of March 31, 1972 would also be appreciated. Material arriving at Mountain Goat over the next few months will be used in a display at a 40th anniversary afternoon tea party, to
be held at the Lindeth Howe Hotel, Bowness, on Sunday, May 13. The invitation to this event is open to those who have worked for, been involved with, or had an interaction with Mountain Goat over the last 40 years. Anyone who fits this bill, should ring 015394 45161 and state their connection so they can be added to the guest list. Contributors with photographs or other suitable materials should contact the office in Windermere or e-mail documents or photos to marketing@mountain-goat. com or send it to Mountain Goat Tours & Holidays, Victoria Street, Windermere, Cumbria, LA23 1AD. Local schools were invited to take part in an art competition to depict a Mountain Goat bus in the landscape. The top prize is a trip out by Mountain Goat bus. Mountain Goat’s MD, Peter Nattrass, said: “This year is all about memories and celebrations. We’ve found some of our own archive material, but are sure there must be more out there, which will be novel and specific to individuals. This will help bring our history to life and show how Mountain Goat has made the inaccessible accessible for people over the last 40 years.” Co-owner Stephen Broughton added: “We would like to think the Mountain Goat brand has been an integral part of the area’s history. The sight of one of our minibuses heading down a country lane, or over a mountain pass is something which signals ‘really being in the Lake District’ to residents and visitors alike. If we can collect such memories and encapsulate them in some form of book or display, it will be a truly rewarding exercise.”
Saturdays only, but if deemed successful, it is hoped it will run more frequently in the future. The 16-seater minibus picks up at Seascale railway station at 1010, and arrives back at 1750hrs, in conjunction with West Cumbria coastal railway timetable. The service was set up to encourage more visitors to the area by incorporating walking routes with links to public transport. The
project is a partnership between Northern Rail, Wasdale Meeting, West Cumbria Tourism, the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway, Mid-Copeland Parish Partnership, Cumbria County Council, the Lake District National Park and Copeland Borough Council. West Cumbria Tourism manager Katie Read, said: “Community transport is especially important for a rural county such as Cumbria.
The most beautiful parts of the county in the Western Lake District are often inaccessible to those who wish to use public transport. “Innovative projects such as this scheme in Wasdale are a great example of what can be achieved and enables access to some real hidden gems, while minimising the environmental impact; something we at West Cumbria Tourism wholeheartedly support.’’
Mountain Goat’s managing director, Peter Nattrass (left), and office manager Sue Todd (wearing red with spectacles) celebrate with other employees and friends and family, at Bowness Pier
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The number of minibuses which will be displayed on the Eberspacher stand at next week’s CV Show 2012
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Mellor announce 31-seater Type Approved minibus
New UNVI for Bliss Travel
Mellor Coachcraft has gained Type Approval and the ability to accommodate up to 31 seats or up to eight wheelchairs in its new Mercedes-Benz Vario. “Achieving 31 seat amply demonstrates our specialist expertise in the manufacture of accessible vehicles,” said sales director Geoff Hudson. “Innovative design and engineering has enabled us to reduce the overall weight of this 4.8 metre wheelbase vehicle to achieve a class-leading specification which includes a sloped floor, full length floor tracking to accommodate seats or wheelchairs, a power operated plug door on the nearside and easy access steps. New style rear doors incorporate the tail lift and new style rear step; with the tail lift mounted on top of chassis, under the floor and inside the back doors. In addition, a warning light on the dashboard indicates if the tail lift is not correctly stowed.” Meeting Euro 5 emission standards and with air
conditioning, a bonded saloon side window and an optional mirror monitor rear view camera system, the Vario is safe, comfortable and environmentally-friendly. Mellor considers it is an excellent choice for discerning local authorities and other user groups across the country.
New Mellor minibus has full Type Approval and 31 seats
Stanford Coachworks supply eight Fiats to Ruskin The remaining four long wheel base Fiat Ducatos from a batch of eight were delivered last month from Stanford Coachworks to Ruskin Private Hire in London. All eight vehicles were required for Ruskin’s disabled passenger transport division, each fitted with single Phoenix M1 tested frames, all-age seatbelts and a floor tracking system to accommodate up to four wheelchairs in place of removable seats. Ruskins is currently growing in the welfare market and expanding its services – presenting further opportunities for business between
Central London-based Bliss Travel has taken delivery of a new UNVI Vega GT 16-seat minicoach. Fully coachbuilt with an R66 rollover compliant structure and based on a Mercedes-Benz 516 Sprinter chassis, the new vehicle utilises a five-speed automatic gearbox. The interior features generously spaced Politecnica Relax GTV reclining coach seats trimmed in black and grey virtual leather and fitted with ‘all heights freeflow’ seat belt guiders and gangway armrests. In-dash and saloon air conditioning, convection heating, double glazing, full length racks with service units, full draw curtains, radio/cd/pa and dvd with drop down monitor complete the interior. A 2.8 cubic metre boot and underfloor locker provide ample luggage capacity. Bliss specialises in private hire. The fleet comprises executive cars, people carriers and Mercedes-Benz coaches up to 53 seats. Commenting on the recent purchase, Director Andrew Bliss said: “Our Mercedes-Benz based
One of the eight long wheel base Ducatos supplied to Ruskin Private Hire the two concerns. “It’s great to see them expanding their portfolio of services. We hope to continue the relationship we’ve built over the last few years,” said
Jess Rider, Stanford Coach Works director. The Fiat minibus conversions are equipped with Ricon S2036 inboard passenger lifts, manual side
New UNVI Vega GT 16-seater minicoaches are highly popular with our diverse client base. We were looking to add another stylish high specification 16-seater to the fleet and decided the Vega GT offered the ideal solution. Our experience with earlier UNVI models has been excellent.” All UNVI Vegas benefit from a three-year Mercedes-Benz warranty along with a two-year bodywork warranty. The coachbuilt Vega GT models are available with eight to 18 seats, up to 4.2 cubic metres of luggage capacity and can be tailored to meet customers’ individual requirements. The vehicle was supplied by Minis to Midis, UNVI’s authorised dealer for eastern and southern England. Tel: 01302 833203
steps with safety buzzers and have the front passenger seats removed for additional ‘L’ shaped luggage pen. For added comfort the Ducato interiors include full ceiling lining, glazed rear doors and top-slider bonded windows, ply lined flooring with non-slip covering and door, seat and window edging finished with soft-feel lining. A moquette seat cover compliments each interior along with fabric roof panels and all the usual first aid kit, fire extinguishers and safety lighting and signage has been included. Stanford-Le-Hope-based Stanford Coachworks has had a strong start to 2012 with many new clients coming on board, in part, due to smaller conversion companies having to folded through economic constraints and also from regular clients expanding their fleet portfolios.
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event PREVIEW › CV SHOW
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Mellor Coachcraft’s Type Approved lowfloor minibus based on the popular Fiat Ducato Maxi chassis cab
Minibuses at the CV Show Martin Cole outlines some of the passenger carrying vehicles on show at next week’s Commercial Vehicle Show from 24-26 April at the NEC
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very year there seems to be an increasing amount of minibus content to the CV Show and this year adds a few more than expected – despite some major OEMs not even taking part. Having enjoyed a number of years as the central attraction, Eberspacher’s annual showcase, which usually encompasses five or six of its key converter/coachbuilder clients, sees competition from rival climate control manufacturer Webasto. Whether Webasto is merely emulating Ebaspacher or has a completely different scheme planned remains to be seen.
Although no large bus or coach exhibits appear at the CV Show it still has a great attraction for operators. Some years back it was particularly the engineers who found it a great benefit but latterly, with the explosion in telematics, digital tachograph, fleet management software and vehicle location onto the marketplace it is also becoming a very useful exhibition for operations staff. To date there have been some tenuous agreements which have kept bus and coach out of the CV Show, eagerly supported by the NEC. However, CV Show organisers have revealed ‘such an agreement no longer exists.’ Whether this will have any
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Euromotive were the first specialist converter to reach type approval requirements via the IVA route great effect on the existing show tradition remains pure speculation but it is quite true the major OEMs are not averse to combining their exceedingly expensive truck show stands with passengers vehicles as a way to cut down on the annual marketing expenses. It would also create an event more similar to the biennial IAA exhibition in Hanover. The following listing provides information on minibuses known to be on display this year from 2426 April.
Eberspacher
The key location for finding a collection of minibuses at the exhibition is, as always, the
Eberspacher stand. This year’s display totals seven vehicles, six of which are minibuses. Those on show at Stand IG30, Hall 1 fully demonstrate the company’s expertise in the field of specialist vehicle heating and climate control. They include a Mellor Coachcraft 16 seat / six wheelchair accessible MercedesBenz Sprinter, a Euromotive 16 seat / six wheelchair accessible VW Crafter, a TrekaBus 16 seat / six wheelchair accessible MercedesBenz Sprinter – all of them equipped with Eberspächer Hydro Climate Control systems Additionally there are the Bluebird Orion 16-seat / three wheelchair accessible Fiat Ducato,
a Stanford Coachworks 14 seat / five wheelchair accessible Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. These feature Eberspächer Dual Air Climate Control systems, combining the latest Eberspächer Airtronic D4 diesel-fuelled air heater & Eberspächer air conditioning. Finally - a Nu- Track 16 seat/ six wheelchair accessible bus with Eberspächer Airtronic D5 independent air heater is also scheduled to appear. The concluding exhibit is a Clarks six person messing / utility MercedesBenz Sprinter panel van conversion with Eberspächer Airtronic D2 air heater & Handiwash 12 volt electric hand washing system. Vince Lee, Eberspächer’s MD, said:
“Our ‘Magnificent Seven’ vehicle display showcases the company’s application expertise. We have an unrivalled range of premiumduty heating and air conditioning products, complemented by items such as self-contained hand wash units. With this vast product choice, backed by our 35-year experience dealing with UK specialist bodybuilders, we are in a unique position to produce customengineered installations to meet the most demanding customer requirements and back our products with the best UK service available.” The Eberspächer Hydro Climate Control system is similar to the climate control used in
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event PREVIEW › CV SHOW
Renault’s Euro 5 Master minibus was launched last year but has undergone a number of specification changes before coming to market most luxury cars. It incorporates an Eberspächer Hydronic diesel fuelled, 5kW water heater together with a special HVAC unit to provide air at whatever temperature the operator has selected between 18°C and 28°C. Both warm and cool air is emitted from the HVAC unit and is automatically regulated to maintain constant temperature regardless of external temperature. To keep the saloon windows free of condensation all year, the Eberspächer Hydro Climate Control system provides dehumidified warm air in winter and cool dry air in summer. Since hot air is provided by the HVAC unit, there is no need for a floor mounted heater, freeing up space in vehicles with
flexible seating. Air can either be blown directly into the cabin or ducted through luggage racks and Eberspächer can also supply special ducting as required. The Eberspächer Dual Air Climate Control system is specifically designed to combine the benefits of the company’s wide range of Airtronic diesel fuelled heaters together with its comprehensive range of air conditioning units. The two systems are linked by a common controller which operates both systems independently of each other. The customer selects a desired temperature and the system turns on either heating from the floor or box mounted Airtronic heater or
above-driver mounted Eberspächer air conditioning unit, depending on the internal cabin temperature. Other manufacturer produced minibuses are also scheduled to appear including the new in-house developed Vauxhall Movano, Stand E50 in Hall 1, where a nine-seat Combi version will be displayed alongside a full minibus specification 17-seater.
Nissan
Nissan will give operators an exclusive preview of its new NV400 chassis cab range which includes mid and long-wheelbase NV400 chassis cabs with both front and rear-wheel-drive alongside two
factory-built vehicles and a Nissan ‘Good To Go’ range of conversions. Nissan’s NV400 offers two engine options of 125hp and 150hp and a total of 13 variants, including single and double cab panel vans. The Good To Go range includes a box van, Luton and fridge van, as well as combi and minibus option built by UK converters selected by Nissan and sold by dealers to operators as a complete vehicle. Nissan’s factory built and ‘Good To Go’ approach guarantees that operators receive a fully-approved conversion complete with manufacturer warranty, making it easier than buying a manufacturer’s chassis cab which for conversion by an external supplier.
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Ford Ford will be showing its recently unveiled Tourneo Custom which offers visitors a good idea of what the new Transit range will look like when it launches later this year. The Custom model carries a high interior specification combined with external enhancement such as alloy wheels – which give it strong kerb appeal in addition to improved comfort levels. Also on the Ford stand is a 17-seat version of the existing Transit.
is a roof-mount CV cooling unit which operates whether the engine is running or not and features an innovative “Comfort Air” control setting to effectively cool the driver without subjecting them to chilling arctic drafts.
Fiat
Fiat Professional is showing a 17seat Euro 5 Ducato which is on static display outside the
exhibition halls. The new Ducato range of Euro 5 engines is more powerful and has improved in terms of consumption, emissions and performance. The three power options from the 2.3 litre MultiJet II are 110bhp, 130bhp and148bhp. The alternative option features a new 3.0 litre 180 MultiJet Power Euro 5 engine and ComfortMatic automated gearbox. Significant new features available on Ducato models include
Webasto
Webasto, stand 3A60, is presenting its largest ever display stand which is to feature six vehicles equipped with its climate control and heating systems. It comprises five minibuses and specialist vans, each fitted with Webasto’s advanced interior climate control systems which feature simple operation, easy installation and economic luxury car-style interior temperature control. Although automatic temperature control systems have been available for specialist vehicles before, they have been hampered by complex installations, with a need for copious wiring to numerous external relays. The Webasto system comprises a smart LCD screen display/ control panel, a compact and fully integrated electronic control unit and an externally mounted air temperature sensor. These units combine the output of Webasto’s current range of supplementary diesel heaters with either their aftermarket split air or roof mount air conditioning units to provide totally automatic temperature control, with seamless switching between hot and cold. The sixth vehicle will feature Webasto’s award winning Dual Top combined interior and water heating system, which has been a real hit with motorhome owners and builders, as well as the important welfare vehicle market. Webasto will also be launching a completely new product: the Cool Top Vario 10E Parking cooler. This
Traction+, an innovative traction control system to improves the vehicle’s handling on difficult terrain with poor grip. This uses the engine’s Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) computer to simulate the behaviour of a self-locking differential. When one of the driven front wheels spins on a slippery surface or over poor terrain, the brakes are applied to the spinning wheel as simultaneously engine torque is transferred to the wheel with better grip.The system is operated by a button on the dash, can be engaged at speeds of up to 19mph and ensures the best possible traction is maintained over the roughest terrain. Fiat says the adoption of Traction+ provides the benefit of lower weight and is less expensive than a traditional 4x4 system.
Mercedes-Benz
Above: Nu Track’s aluminium-framed coachbuilt body Below: Bluebird Orion Plus seats up to 22 pasengers
Mercedes-Benz is showing its Vito 112 Sportex model which is essentially a sporty version of the popular shuttle aimed at ‘lifestyle’ markets. It can comfortably be used for family transport but quickly tranforms, via seat removal, into a vehicle with enough load space to carry bicycles, camping equipment, surfboards, jet skis or whatever is required for leisure activities, hobbies and holidays.
Peugeot
Peugeot plans only to show a passenger version of its Expert and will demonstrate the ease with which it can be adapted from five to eight seats for a spacious environment or to accommodate a large amount of luggage.
Renault
Renault’s new 17-seat Master, the LM39 DCi 125, recently tested by Minibus, will be shown alongside a Traffic Passenger Sport. This LL29 DCi 115 model is festooned with extras and enhanced by 16“ alloy wheels and a metallic paint finish – another ‘lifestyle’ option from the range.
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Beauty and Brains... They call me: Slide ‘N Click. And I’m more than just curvy, all-around good looks. Once you get to know me, you’ll see I have quite the ‘well-rounded’ personality. I feature a complete 360° rotation that allows easy one-handed operation. I may be posing here with my friend QRT Deluxe but don’t get too jealous, I play just as nice with any of the QRT Series Retractors.
Want to see more? Check me out at: Qstraint.com
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About Me: 360 Degree Rotation:
Provides flexibility in attachment
Single Bolt Installation:
Eliminates complicated installs and alignments
Durable & Low Maintenance:
Cast stainless steel for maximum strength and durability
Low Profile and Compact:
Reduces potential interference with wheelchair components
t: +44 (0) 1227 773035 e: info@qstraint.co.uk www.qstraint.com
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manufacturer update › mercedes-benz
Dortmund – demand fuels expansion Martin Cole visits what is by far and away a unique area – the MercedesBenz dedicated minibus production facility in Dortmund
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inibuses are becoming an increasingly important element in the MercedesBenz portfolio as the expansion of both the vehicle range and production facilities in Dortmund testify. It is at least 11 years since I first paid a visit to the newly created (1998) Mercedes-Benz Minibus Centre in Dortmund and a brief visit at the end of March showed just how much has changed since those early days. At its inception, the fledgling operation had just taken a large stake in specialist coachbuilder and converter Karl Koch GmbH which had been responsible for producing the very first lowfloor Sprinter models. Former Karl Koch staff were moved into a very small section of the Dortmund factory complex where they continued working to develop lowfloor minibuses alongside a small range of in-house Sprinter conversions. The unit also attempted a 27-seat coachbuilt Vario-based minicoach called the Medio. It never caught on in the UK due to achieving lower seating capacity than existing UK builders were producing – typically 29-33 seat capability. It also had
a pitifully small luggage boot compared to the cavernous dropwell space created by Plaxton and Autobus Classique – among others. So after a very steady start, in 2004 came revolutionary change with purchase of the remaining shares in Karl Koch to take 100% ownership. The establishment of the new model range with some practical core models on which to found further development occurred in 2006 with the advent of the current Sprinter generation. This concentrated on a high specification Travel minicoach, a more general purpose Transfer version without a coach-style rear end, a basic specification Mobility with wheelchair access and the City – a dedicated lowfloor bus. The new generation of Sprinter also meant far more variations to each classification could be engineered. This has seen extended bodies developed for higher seating capacity and extensive glazing options with a range of window tints, window sizes and even double glazing. The key message for all the minibus/minicoach customers is the ‘one-stop-shop’ approach which offers aftermarket backup and support for each and every component used in the construction of the vehicle. Every part is a genuine
A triaxle Sprinter City 77 elevated to install suspension and Telma
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manufacturer update › mercedes-benz
Mercedes-Benz item with an official part number and can be obtained via any official dealer anywhere in the world. The current network includes over 600 service partners in Western Europe alone. The range of products, like the base vehicle itself, continues to evolve. This year sees the introduction of a higher-speed rear axle and a seven-speed torque converter automatic gearbox aimed at further reducing fuel consumption and the relative emissions. These models should be available from May onwards. Next year a face-lift is planned for some time in early summer. Welcoming visitors to the plant, MD Dr Ulrich Hesselmann said sales had doubled, notably for the lowfloor City models. This had led to rapid expansion and a doubling of space from its 2004 level. It now occupies 10,500 square metres. He said: “I think it is clear, customer expectations have changed. As they have demanded more, we have worked hard to develop products to meet those requirements. We ensure everything either meets or exceeds European requirements and there is strict compliance with weight limits. “No-one has more in-house expertise. Our products undergo extensive trials and enter customer pilots over trim and fittings. EvoBus collaborated closely with Mercedes-Benz over the necessary instrumentation and on-board systems integrated into the Sprinter product.”
Above: Sprinter City 65K model has less rear overhang and is 700mm shorter. Below: City 65 interior layout
The EvoBus Sprinter range
One of the most advanced developments on view at Dortmund was a full electric version of a lowfloor Sprinter City 65. Essentially a scaled-up version of the E-Cell system employed in the smaller Vito, it employs lithium polymer batteries and has a range of 90km. With a rapid charging facility it can fully recharge its batteries in just 20 minutes, which, in many circumstances, gives it more than sufficient range for a full day’s work with only a short layover period. The model on show, despite being
at an early prototype stage, is currently in daily service with operator ASEAG in Germany running in a partner scheme under the ‘Smart Wheels’ banner and had been returned to the factory to be presented to the world’s press. Crammed full to capacity it was then driven around the Dortmund production complex. Not only is the electric City 65 extremely quiet in operation it demonstrated exceptionally quick acceleration. Its top speed had been limited to 65km/h.
EvoBus says the short distance nature of the bulk of urban services to which the electric vehicle is suited makes it a practical choice as well as an environmental one. It cuts noise dramatically and produces zero emissions at point of use. It makes full use of regenerative braking and so a busy urban environment with frequent stops helps to maintain charge levels and maximise its range. Its route application in Aachen was specifically planned. A full simulation model of the vehicle’s longitudinal dynamics was created to accurately calculate energy and performance requirements and used to estimate route distances and the overall behaviour of the drivetrain. The calculations were carefully compared to data achieved from operating the vehicle on the company’s test track. Aside from its distinctive livery advertising its electric, eco-friendly drive, externally it is indistinguishable from any other Sprinter City 65. Internally the only noticeable difference is in the
instrumentation. There are some significant changes under the skin though. The rear section of the ladder-type frame was removed and replaced by a tubular steel frame, which is protected by a GRP casing. Other system components had to be modified in order to allow integration of the electric drive system and the complete electric and electronic systems had to be adapted to the electric drive system. Rather than opting for a very large, heavy battery with a capacity of 120 kWh, it was decided, after taking into account the daily distances covered, to install a smaller 45 kWh unit. Its lower weight meant more passengers could be carried. On the basis of this specification, the team at the Institute for Power Electronics and Electrical Drives (ISEA) of the RWTH Aachen developed two identical battery packs with a voltage range of between 264 V and 412 V which, connected in parallel, provide the necessary power supply for the electric drive system. A 60 kW direct current
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(DC) rapid charging system makes it possible to recharge 20 kWh of electrical energy in approximately 20 minutes. It was developed within the publicly-funded ‘Smart Wheels’ project between 2009-11 in partnership with the Institute of Automotive Engineering at RWTH Aachen University. The battery and electric drive system were developed by the Institute of Power Electronics and Electrical Drives. The charging infrastructure for electric vehicles operated in Aachen is provided by STAWAG – a local utility company. The programme of in-depth testing and validation undertaken suggests further development of this bus concept to production stage, in conjunction with industrial partners, is a viable proposition. The initial trials with the electric vehicle conclude at the end of 2012 but EvoBus says it has a number of showcase projects planned for the near future.
Sprinter City
While the electric Sprinter was an unexpected attraction the flagship in the City range is undoubtedly the City 77. Its key difference from the smaller 35, 45 and 65 models is the triaxle chassis arrangement and further extended body to 8.7m. The additional body length allows a low flat area at the front of the saloon with a double width 1,250mm entrance door, boarding ramp and space for a wheelchair or buggy. However, it also allows a similar double door at the rear with another low flat section which can also accommodate a wheelchair or buggy. Alternatively, operators can fill the rear space with seating – depending on their requirements and passenger loadings. The extra metre in length and additional axle increases its GVW to 6.8 tonnes and passenger capacity extends to 40. All City models are fully coachbuilt but closely resemble the original Sprinter van design. They start life as chassis cowls and undergo extensive modification to create the lowfloor access necessary for bus service application. The special nature
Above: City 77. Below: City 77 driver station and central seating area. Bottom: Rear section can be used as an additional wheelchair bay
of the City 77 requires its own dedicated chassis assembly rather than a modified standard chassis. All the structural assemblies are given a cathodic dip anti-corrosion treatment to ensure long life in service. The body frame production is outsourced to an approved supplier and assembled in the Dortmund plant. The City 77 maintains the independent air suspension for each wheel which applied to its counterparts although, at present, it does not have an ESP element in its standard safety equipment specification. The current Sprinter ESP is only configured for four wheels and will not function correctly if applied to the tandem axle. ESP or not, the City 77 is an extremely stable and surefooted platform which is surprisingly manoeuvrable in urban traffic flows. Its 163bhp engine and five-speed automatic gearbox are standard equipment. The real distinguishing feature between the ride in this vehicle compared to its shorter counterparts is a sense of increased comfort and a more sedate nature to the journey. The comfort aspect is attributable mainly to two areas – its additional mass which works the suspension a little more and allows it to absorb more shocks without transmitting so much to the body – and the tandem axle which reduces lateral movement and cuts down on body roll or swaying while cornering. Standard Sprinters are not prone to any great degree of roll anyway, due to their well-designed suspension, but the tandem axle ‘effect’ stiffens it further. Another contributor to a smooth ride is the automatic torque converter gearbox. A Telma electromagnetic retarder is also fitted and can be used to good effect to slow the vehicle without need to engage the brakes. The three stages are manually applied via a stalk switch on the dashboard close to the steering wheel. The Telma unit now fitted is smaller and lighter than previous fitments while maintaining the same level of efficiency. The lowfloor layout in
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manufacturer update › mercedes-benz
the City 77 offers pavement-level no-step boarding and alighting from both front and rear doors. A choice of manual fold-out or automatic boarding ramps can be fitted at either or both doorways. The outward swinging doors now employ a Bode-developed system which offers a simplified operating mechanism and is potentially far more reliable. It is not affected by any activation of its safety sensors – where a passenger may not have cleared the doors and the sensitive edge system detects this and opens the door up again. The doors will still withdraw immediately an obstruction is detected but they don’t go out of ‘sync’ as is often the case with many door systems. The floor itself is not completely flat all the way through. There is a low flat area behind the cab area with sufficient area for a wheelchair/buggy bay. Behind there, the gangway tapers upwards, levels out and then tapers downwards towards the low flat area at the rear – so there are no steps. The two-plus-one seating is mounted on the raised section of the floor. Two tip-up seats are mounted on the sidewall in the wheelchair bay and two more on the rear wall although three can be squeezed into the same space if required. The seated centre section has 10 seats – four pairs down one side and two singles on the other. These are the same seats as are fitted to the Citaro bus range – The City Star Eco. Air conditioning is standard with a 7.0kW unit for the driver’s area and an 11kW system for the saloon. An auxiliary water heater with timer was fitted to the demonstration vehicle but is listed as additional equipment. The City 65 is a metre shorter than the City 77 at 7.7m long. Its European specification includes a single rear entrance/exit door arrangement but it means as there is no rear provision for wheelchair or buggy space there is more room for seating and so 12 can be installed – two more than on its bigger brother – plus three tip-up seats in the forward lowfloor area. Total passenger capacity is 30.
Top: Boarding options for Sprinter Mobility. Below: The City 45 full electric minibus with lithium polymer batteries can recharge in just 20 minutes The saloon layout includes a lowfloor flat section behind the driver and then a single step up to the aisle in the rear saloon where all the fixed seats are located. Because it is only configured on two axles the City 65 maintains Adaptive ESP along with BAS, ASR and Start-Off Assist. Like the City 77 it is powered by the 163bhp OM651 Euro 5 EEV specification engine and five-speed automatic gearbox. It has a GVW of 5.65 tonnes. A City 65 K version is also available. It has fewer seats (eight + two tip-ups) offering far more seat and leg-room while catering for an increased number of standees. Total capacity remains the same at 30 passengers. The K model is also fitted with a retarder. The City models, like the conventional minibus/minicoach products, all have a degree of
flexibility within the specification which allows buyers to personalise their specifications to a degree. For instance, the digital LED destination display units, while perfectly functional, may be swapped out for a different type – either for preference or for standardisation of equipment fitted to the existing fleet.
Sprinter Transfer
General purpose Sprinter Transfer models come in five forms with medium, long wheelbase and LWB with extended body, to accommodate from 12 up to 22 passengers. Transfer 34 (the 3 indicates medium wheelbase and the 4 = 4.0 tonnes GVW), the 45 (LWB and 5.0 tonnes GVW) and the 55 (LWB, 5.0 tonnes GVW) with an extended body, coach rear end and giving increased seating and
luggage capacity. Essentially built as people movers over shorter distances, they have a more basic nature than the ‘coach-spec’ Travel models and have limited luggage capacity but they are much more affordable and generally capable of fulfilling a wide number of applications. They feature fixed high-back seating (Inter Star Sprinter 420mm wide) and, depending on the model, have one or two overhead luggage racks. The Transfer 55 has a coach-style rear with a top hinged boot flap. This allows some luggage to be deposited on the floor space behind the rear seats and gives the vehicle a more impressive appearance. The other more basic models retain van rear doors. This also allows access to any luggage space available – depending on the number of seats installed. All seats are mounted on rails to allow maximum layout flexibility. Transfer models have a high degree of versatility and are well-suited to shuttle services, day excursions, rural service applications and short trips. The large windows offer good vision combined with a light interior and add to a spacious feel. Headroom in the gangway is now 1.9m – five centimetres more than previous versions. Display models were all equipped with an electric sliding saloon door coupled with an automatic entrance step to assist boarding. Saloon air conditioning is an optional fitment and distributed via concealed ducting in the roof lining.
Sprinter Travel
The Travel range covers the topspecification minicoach models aimed specifically at longer excursions, touring or executive group travel. There are three base models in the Sprinter 45, 55 and 65 in lengths of 7.3m, 7.6m and 7.7m respectively. Both the 45 and 55 are conversions with the 55 featuring a coach rear with a tophinged boot flap giving access to 1.45 cubic metres of boot space. The 65 model features a separately mounted bus body with large panoramic windows and
www.coachandbusweek.com
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Join the discussion on Twitter by following us at @cbwtweets and find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/coachandbusweek taller windscreen giving it a stylish and distinctive appearance. The bodyframe configuration allows an enlarged storage area increasing luggage boot capacity to 2.0 cubic metres. Although the body appears identical to the Travel 45 and 55 conversions it is 100mm wider. It features a powered 750mm-wide entrance door and accommodates up to 18 passengers plus a courier. Rear air suspension is standard fit. The coach-style nature of the Travel is reflected in the high level of interior trim with fabric lined sidewalls and ceiling. Overhead
racks feature individual passenger sets with fully adjustable air vents, reading lamps and call buttons. Reclining Travel Star Xtra seats have up to 920mm pitch available for increased leg room and comfort.
Sprinter Mobility
There are two models in the Mobility range which is specifically aimed at the accessible/community transport sector. Both the Mobility 23 and 33, measuring 5.9m and 6.9m, have a GVW of 3.5t in order to simplify driver licensing requirements. Standard
specification has the 23 equipped with seven seats and the 33 with eight – although the seating can easily be tailored to individual requirements. Models for the UK are being brought in via EvoBus in Coventry in basic form allowing customers to select their own set options and choice of passenger lift, either internal or underfloor installations, from their preferred manufacturer. The company is also looking at bringing in a supplementary model it feels meets a growing requirement for operators wanting
Above left: Sprinter Travel’s coach rear and boot. Above right: Sprinter Travel’s coach-style interior Below: Tall windscreen and distinctive door and window give the Travel its own unique identity
capacity for three wheelchairs. Based on recent sales enquiries it is proposing a small number of tip and fold seats throughout the saloon for rapid seating reconfiguration. Minibus sales manager Lee Gibson said the key benefit would be the cost savings in the conversion as all the work was behind the original cab area. The reduced man-hours in producing vehicles to this specification would, he felt, make it available at a very competitive price.
Conclusion
Mercedes-Benz is unique among other vehicle manufacturers in having a dedicated minibus production facility. There are others with an in-house product but nothing on the scale of Dortmund – which still has scope for major further expansion within the existing factory complex. As with all comparatively small production divisions, particularly based in Europe with high wage rates to consider, the in-house models often struggle to compete on price with products from converters and the factory has less inclination to pander to markets like the UK which is driven by bespoke specification of new vehicles rather than accepting offthe-shelf products. Certainly, the in-house range can be built to order – but within limits. What it does provide customers with is a sense of security in the knowledge the vehicle is fully supported in every department under its warranty conditions. Every component has an official manufacturer part number and any supplementary equipment, such as heating or air conditioning has been selected because it works, is reliable and integrates correctly with the on-board electrics and other systems. Being factory-built, each product is strictly within the weight limit for its category and the essence throughout the build process is on quality and safety to ensure customers get the reliability, durability, performance and back-up they would expect from a prestige marque.
www.coachandbusweek.com
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Insight › ALL TERRAIN OPS
A bus-style body provides passenger seating for tourists. Note the plough and snow chains
Extreme operation – Unimog answers the call A somewhat different approach to transport is required in adverse and hostile conditions – like on Mt Etna
W
hen it comes to finding a way of shuttling passengers a short distance there is nothing in the UK representing quite the challenge faced by the operator on Mount Etna in Sicily. Between May and October each year it is required to carry the streams of tourists from the Etna cable car station at 2,500 metres up to the Torre del Filosofo.
This is the point where, at 2,935 metres above sea level, the hiking trail begins for tourists who want to be as close as possible to the volcano’s lava fields. More than 300,000 tourists are drawn each year to Sicily by the prospect of climbing Mount Etna. The Unimog 4000-5000 range, which has been built since 2002 at the Mercedes-Benz plant in Wörth, has been proven to be the ideally suited for use in the
harsh conditions which prevail on Etna. It is the only vehicle concept of its type in the world and it guarantees the ultimate off-road capability combined with functional versatility unrivalled by other forms of off-road vehicle. The Unimog concept emerged 60 years ago and has been in production for specialist applications ever since. The Unimog features a flexible ladder frame, all-wheel drive with differential locks in both axles, which are in fact portal axles, and the central tyre inflation system Tirecontrol – every single technical detail plays its part in ensuring that the “Universal-Motor-Gerät”, or “Universal Motor Device” – the German version of which provides the acronym that makes up the Unimog name - remains a dependable partner on the rough tracks and ash fields of Europe’s highest active volcano. The extreme versatility of the Unimog ensures it carries out a range of vital duties against a spectacular backdrop. The bus-style
bodies on the vehicles provide passenger seating for the tourists, carrying them safely from the cable car station all the way up the steep track. At other times a U1550 L variant, fitted with the necessary attachment of a bulldozer blade, has the task of clearing snow or ash from the tracks. The versatility of the Unimog has also come into its own during the building of a new cable car system to replace one which was destroyed by volcanic eruptions. They not only maintain the tracks and roads, they carry the construction materials and repair crews to hard to reach places. Over its lifetime, Unimog has gained a reputation for its robust dependability. It is regularly the vehicle of choice to perform duties in extreme environments and often the remotest areas. It is frequently in demand from fire fighting services, disaster control organisations or for expedition support where challenging off-road terrain needs to be negotiated. Over 380,000 have been built to date.
www.coachandbusweek.com
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COACH&BUSMARKET – the place to buy and sell
To advertise on these pages for as little as £30 just call 01733 293247
...then 50 come along at once. Due to a major influx of new vehicles, we are selling a number of ex-TWM service buses. They’re in great condition for their age and have been maintained to a very high standard. There are currently 50 vehicles available, all stored at our site for viewing. Although mainly Volvo, Scania and Optare single deck, there are some double deck buses also available. All will be sold with 12 months MOT and repaint if required. Please call for more details. Finance and rental packages available. Volant PVS Ltd, Beecham Business Park, Northgate, Aldridge WS9 8TZ T: +44 (0)1922 457003 volantpvs.co.uk
2005 (55) Caetano Optimo V
Luxury 26 seats + courier, white, manual, tacho, 3 point seatbelts, CD + PA, forced air, power door, Euroliners. Very good condition, new MOT, 194,000 miles. £34,000 + VAT ono
01494 532 777
Passenger and Commercial Vehicles Recovery Dismantlers Parts Sales
Dennis Pointer Dart Mk2 x 100 All spares available - includes engine, gearboxes, seats, etc.
Call: 01226 727769 Mobile: 07912 103497 Email: geoff-ripley@btconnect.com www.geoff-ripleysbuscoachsales.com
2004 (54) Neoplan Starliner Tri-Axle Corporate/Team Coach
COACH&BUSMARKET Looking for a great deal to sell your vehicles?
32 leather seats around 8 tables, full rear servery with fridges, ice machine, hot water, microwave and airline style food warmers, 3 extra fridges throughout coach, airline style overhead lockers, 240v inverter and onboard generator, Blaupunkt sound system with DVD & SKY TV (2 screens), extra mini screens on a separate channel on both front tables, ASTronic gearbox, A/C, WC, fully carpeted, removable ski box, spare seats.
£109,000 + VAT o.n.o.
For more details call Patrick or Murray 01787 477701/ 07730 671064
Buy 3 weeks get a 4th week
FREE!
Contact Jade Cassidy now on 01733 293247 jade.cassidy@rouncymedia.co.uk Coach & Bus Week – the only paid-for weekly magazine in the bus and coach industry – there’s no comparison!
SHELTON MOTORS – RAMSEY, CAMBS
WANTED ALL TYPES OF BUSES AND COACHES FULLY LICENSED ELV SITE # WANTED FOR BREAKING AND EXPORT ORDERS # IMMEDIATE PAY AND COLLECTION # SINGLE OR FLEET PURCHASES Tel: 01487 813156 (9 until 5 Mon - Fri only) Mobile: 07831 349760 Email: sales@shelton-motors.co.uk
WANTED # WANTED # WANTED # WANTED
WANTED # WANTED # WANTED # WANTED
# WANTED # WANTED # WANTED # WANTED # WANTED # WANTED # WANTED #
# WANTED # WANTED # WANTED # WANTED # WANTED # WANTED # WANTED #
Telephone Jade Cassidy on 01733 293247 or email jade.cassidy@rouncymedia.co.uk
553368-1032-Pembridge
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NEW PRE-REGISTERED FORDS
New Ford Transit 17 seat 4.3ton 135ps minibus. From £20,595 + VAT
OTHER MAKES
FORD TRANSIT MINIBUSES
(11) 2011 Ford Transit 9 seat Shuttle Bus, twin side loading doors, large rear luggage area, delivery miles only £16,995
(10) 2010 Ford Transit 17 seat M/R 140PS with air-con, tacho, COIF/PSV £17,995 (08) 2008 Ford Transit 3.5ton 15 seat 2.4tdi, 115ps, high back seats with three point belts, tacho £13,800
SOLD
(05) Ford Transit 17 seat 2.5 diesel 115ps, high back seats with three point belts 25,000 miles only £8,750 (53) 2003 Ford Transit 17 seat 2.4 td minibus, high back seats with three point belts, tacho, air-con, COIF/PSV £6,995 (03) Ford Transit 3.5 ton 15 seat minibus, 2.4 tdi, high back seats with three point belts £2,995 (52) 2003 Ford Transit 17 seat 2.4tdi, tacho, towbar, high back seats with three point belts, COIF/PSV £6,495
LDV MINIBUSES
(57) 2007 LDV Maxus 15 seat minibus, high back seats with three point belts £7,495
(03) 2003 LDV Convoy Maxi XLWB 17 seat mini-coach, 2.4 Tdi, front entry drop step, luggage racks, rear heating, wide aisle, rear row of seats removable, New PSV £6,495
OTHER MAKES
New Renault Master 17 seat LM35/ 2.2di 125ps, six speed, satnav, tacho, fully tracked floor with removable seats £21,995
New Peugeot Boxer 16 seat 3.5 ton and 17 seat wheelchair accessible minibuses, 2.2 diesel 120ps, six speed gearbox, LEZ COMPLIANT from £23,500 + VAT (09) 2009 Renault Master 16 seat minibus, tacho,high back seats with three point belts, 35,000km £15,650
(06) Peugeot Boxer 17 seat 3.5ton minibus 2.2 diesel, high back seats with three point belts, rear row of seats on tracking, 14,500 miles only £9,995
WHEELCHAIR ACCESS
(08) Renault Master LWB 3.5 ton, 2.5 tdi, six seats, fully tracked floor, inboard Ricon Clearway lift, one owner from new, 40,000 miles £16,750 (07) 2007 Renault Trafic LH29, 7 seats, tracking to take two wheelchairs, inboard lift, 43,000 miles £8,995
(57) LDV Maxus LWB 9 seats tracking to take two wheelchairs, inboard lift, 49,000 miles, £9,995
(54) 2005 Renault Master 13 seat wheelchair access minibus, inboard Ricon lift, fully tracked floor, rear heating, electric side step, 56,000 miles £8,995
(03) 2003 Fiat Doblo SX 1.9 diesel, low floor, four seats plus one wheelchair, lightweight ramp, 45,000 miles £3,495 (53) 2003 Mercedes Vito 108 cdi 2.2 diesel, 6 seats, low floor with lightweight ramp, tracking for two wheelchairs £5,995 Y 2001 Renault Mascot 2.8 diesel, 16 seat wheelchair accessible minibus, front entry drop step, fully tracked floor to take five wheelchairs, under floor lift, rear heating, COIF/PSV £7,750
Contact Graham Thatcher – email: sales@minibussales.co.uk
Tel: 01633 485858 Mobile: 07866 443304
Pembridge House, The Park Business Centre, Plough Road, Goytre, Penperlleni, Nr Usk, South Wales NP4 0AL – 10 minutes from M4 motorway. Viewing by appointment only Finance Contract Hire and Finance Lease Available. We deliver Nationwide. All vehicles prepared to VOSA standard COIF/PSV specialist
All above prices are subject to VAT @ 20%
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Ensig DOUBLE DECK 1997/8 VOLVO OLYMPIANS Seatbe exampleslted no available w
LEZ
COMPLIANT
Volvo engines, Euro 2, 78 seats, converted to single door, new COIF, tyres included, UK registered ready to work.
Cummins/Voith, LEZ compliant for 2012 with traps to Euro 4, CCTV, Alexander ALX400 bodies, DDA compliant or upseated to 80 seats.
1999/2000 T/V/X REG DENNIS TRIDENTS
Cummins / Allison, Wrights Cadet body, ramp, wheelchair space, Hanover LEDʼs, CCTV, 39 retrimmed individual seats, from our own fleet and very tidy.
2000 DAF SB120
2004/5 SCANIA K114 AND 124’S
ZF automatics, Irizar PB bodies, 49 leather seats, toilets, air-con, £53,500.
1998 R REG VOLVO OLYMPIAN
Slimline, Mercedes engines, 23 seats, long MOTʼs.
ZF automatic, 74 seats, dual door, CONVERTIBLE open topper, so can still be used in the Winter! One only.
2006 OPTARE SOLO’S
1995 M REG DENNIS DRAGONS
ZF automatic, Plaxton Premiere 350, air-con, 57 seats.
1998 DAF SB3000
Cummins/Voith gearboxes, Duple Metsec bodies, recent floors and 92 coach seats.
2001 DDA COMPLIANT DENNIS DARTS
Plaxton Pointer 2 dual door bodies, 31 seats, CCTV, particulate traps fitted, LEZ 2012 compliant, only £6,500 each plus tyres (£375)
2001 Y REG DART SLF’S
Cummins/Allison, LEZ compliant for 2012 with traps to Euro 4, CCTV, Alexander ALX200 bodies with either 30 seats and 2 doors or 34 seats converted to single door, ramps, DDA certified and compliant. 10.8m 37 seaters now available.
OPEN TOP BUSES A SPECIALITY -
Juliette Close, Purfleet Industrial Telephone 01708 865656 Fax: 01708 8 Visit our website for current s
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nbus ER SPECIALIST 1998 MERCEDES 814
Manual, Plaxton Cheetah, 25 seats, long MOT.
GREAT VALUE DENNIS DARTS!!!
2001 Y REG DENNIS DART MPD’s
Plaxton Pointer 2 bodies, 29 seats, LEZ compliant post 2012 with traps, DDA compliant, long MOTʼs.
1998/9 R and T reg Dart SLFʼs with Plaxton or Alexander bodies, 35 seats, single door, long tests.
Hanover LEDʼs, East Lancs Myllenium body, 39 seats.
2003 MAN 14220
Euro 3, ZF automatics, 35 seats, East Lancs Myllenium bodies.
2003 MAN 11.2220’S
Euro 4, Wrights Gemini bodies, dual door, 68 seats.
Cummins Euro 3 ISB engines, Allison gearboxes, Caetano Nimbus bodies, 10.7m, 37 seats, full DDA.
£7000 just spend on recon engine, MCV Evolution body, 40 seats, DDA, Hanover LEDʼs.
2002 DENNIS DART SLF’S
1999/2000 DENNIS TRIDENTS
Cummins/Voith, LEZ compliant with traps, Plaxton President bodies, 62 seats or 70 when converted to single door.
1997/98 P/R/S REG VOLVO OLYMPIANS Volvo Euro 2 engines, ZF gearboxes, Alexander RL low height bodies, LWB, 87 seats.
2007 VOLVO B9TL’S
2007 MAN 14.220
Voith automatic, East Lancs body, 49 dual purpose seats just retrimmed, supplied with new MOT.
1995 N REG SCANIA L113
ZF automatic, SLF, Wrights body.
2000 X REG VOLVO B6
- BRITAIN’S BIGGEST BUS DEALERS Park, Purfleet, Essex, RM15 4YF 8 864340 e-mail: sales@ensignbus.com t stock at www.ensignbus.com
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COACHES & BUSES WANTED FOR AUCTION for our UK & Commonwealth buyers Our main interest is equipment available due to Retirement or Fleet Reorganisation.
T F E L 1 Y L N O
All equipment would be marketed worldwide through our Special Auction Events Team. See our website history for people we have worked for.
For further information please call Malcolm Harrison on 01630 674326 or email malcolm@malcolmharrison.co.uk
OFFERS INVITED
MALCOLM HARRISON AUCTIONS
58 Plate Volvo Sunsundegui B9R 49/53 seat coach, interior blue cloth with leather head rests, I Shift gearbox, 2 screens, colour light blue metallic.
57 Plate Volvo Alizee B12B Euro 4, T9 Alicron 12.15M, cloth seats with leather head rests, 2 screens, I Shift gearbox, colour blue.
No deposit finance lease available up to 5 years subject to underwriting
Close Asset Finance
For all enquiries please contact Jim Bentley 07786 986600 or Marie Duffy 01355 572366
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Dennis Trident Alexander ALX 400 Choice of 1999/2000 (V & X reg)
All long wheelbase and Euro 4 Can be upseated/single door converted to 78/80 Seat belted for DDA certification
Phone for details or see our website
View all stock online: www.staffordbuscentre.com Email: martin@staffordbuscentre.com
Tel: 01782 791774
Mobile: 07803 222552
BUS & CO A CH S A LE S
2010 2010 2006 2006 2005
MAN Panther DDA 49 seats A/C front w/chair lift Volvo B12B Prestige 49/51 sts A/C Mercedes Touro 49 seats A/C MAN Plaxton 49 seats A/C Iveco Beulas 49 seats A/C
2004 2004 2004 2003 2003
MAN Marco Polo 70 seats A/C Volvo B12B Caetano Enigma 49 sts A/C MAN Noge Catalan 51 seats A/C MAN Marco Polo 70 seats Volvo B12M Caetano Enigma 49 seats A/C
2003 2000 1998 1998 1996
Volvo B12B Caetano 48 seats A/C Iveco Beulas 49 seats A/C Volvo B10M Excalibur 49 seats Merc Beaver 27 seats Volvo Strider 49 seats
TO VIEW CALL 07979 295668
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Southdown PSV - 01342 711840 www.southdownpsv.co.uk
2006 ADL ENVIRO 200 SLF 29 sts - choice of 2 £45,000 ea+ VAT
2004 DENNIS DART SLF MPD 29 seats. £34,000 + VAT
1995 MERCEDES 0416 WRIGHTBUS 47 seats. £4,950 + VAT
1996 VOLVO OLY ALEXANDER 78 seats. £9,750 + VAT
2000 DENNIS DART SLF MPD 29 sts - choice of 3 £8,950 ea + VAT
2003 DENNIS DART SLF MPD 29 seats. £28,950 + VAT
Southdown PSV Silverwood Snow Hill Copthorne West Sussex RH10 3EN
CONSTANT
INNOVATION
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April 18, 2012 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 65
“Assisting the Coaching Industry”
Merc V8/AsTronic box, 75str, white ext/blue int, air con, drinks, fridge, ski box, 160,000 miles since factory engine, MoT Oct 2012, Eminox fitted to Euro 4, RPC for reduced road tax (£190 P/A), very good condition, low mileage coach. Ideal people mover for the Olympics. £103,000 + VAT ono £95,000 + VAT ono
NEOPLAN SKYLINER 2003
1 - 7.8SE 23str with seat belts and semi coach seats, digi tacho, radio, approx 142,000 miles. MoT June 2012 £46,500 + VAT ono 2 - 7.1SE 23str approx 195,000 miles, MoT May 2012 £44,500 + VAT ono £42,500 + VAT ono Both vehicles Euro 4 Mercedes engines, white exterior/blue interior, Hanover destination, vgc.
2 x 1990 Volvo B10M Manual Plaxton Paramount 3500 57 Seaters With Courier Seat, Long Test, Brand New Re-Trim & NEW Sprayed White £8,500.00 + VAT 10% discount until the end of April
2 OPTARE SOLOS 2007
1996 Dennis Javelin Manual Berkhof Excellence 2000
SOLD
53 Seater With Courier Seat, Tested Till June, But Will Supply New Test & NEW Spray White £7,500.00 + VAT 10% discount until the end of April
Tel: 01296 398300 Motts Travel, Buckinghamshire
MINICOACHES Albion House, 16-18 Albion Street, Willenhall, West Midlands WV13 1NJ
sales@ukminicoaches.co.uk
www.ukminicoaches.co.uk
Tel: 01902 631507
Fax: 01902 630791
D L O S
2008 Mercedes 613D Oynx Manual, LEZ 4, Minicoach 24 Seats, AIR CON, Long MOT & London LEZ Euro 4 £38,000.00 + VAT
2008 “08” Mercedes 311 Sprinter 16 seat Minicoach
In build now, this superb minicoach will soon be available. Built with 16 high back coach seats, full length luggage racks, rear emergency exit, all seats behind driver, roof hatch, front entrance, panoramic windows, curtains, full soft trim, 69,000 miles, wheel trims, digital tachograph and COIF
£23,995 + V.A.T.
Choice of “54-06” LDV Convoy Minibuses
Available from stock, 54 reg 12 seat LR MWB, 54 reg 16 seat HR LWB and 06 reg 16 seat HR LWB minibuses. All in excellent condition. All seats fitted with 3 point seat belts with all age adjustment, side entry door for rear passengers, dual front passenger seat,
1995 Volvo B10M Auto Plaxton Premier 350 53 Seat Standard Exec, Level Floor, Mounted Toilet, NEW Retrim & Spray, Long MOT, Mint! £16,000.00 + VAT 10% discount until the end of April
READY FOR START OF SEASON Volvo B10M Plaxton Premier 320 Automatics Brand New Converted 70 Seat Coaches, New Seats & Spray, Certified And Ready To Go... 10% discount until the end of April
Price from £2,995 + V.A.T.
“55” 2005 Renault Master 8 seat Ambulance
A stunning example of this versatile vehicle. Built for local authority use for the purpose of patient transfers, this particular model features lowering rear suspension, fold out ramp for wheelchair access, 6 forward facing and 2 rear facing passenger seats and easy clean interior.
Price £6,495 + V.A.T.
OPENING HOURS MONDAY TO FRIDAY 9,00 AM TO 5.00 PM All Commercial Trading Ltd T/A UK Minicoaches
www.SDRcoachhelp.com 24 Hrs 0844 576 3300 1 x 1993, £18,500.00 + VAT 1 x 1994, £22,500.00 + VAT
1 x 1995, £26,500.00 + VAT 2 x 1997, £29,500.00 + VAT
Hunnable Industrial Estate, Toppesfield Road, Gt Yeldham, Essex CO9 4HD
Filler NEW copy
10/3/12
09:30
Page 1
3 WEEKS 4 WEEK FREE
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VEHICLE SALES | PRODUCTS & SERVICES | MARKET | VEHICLE SALES | PRODUCTS & SERVICES | MARKET | VEHICLE SALES | PRODUCTS & SERVICES
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COACH&BUSCLASSIFIED BUSESWANTED
Bus Workshops - Secure Storage Supplied any width, any length Building to BS5590 - Doors high enough for Double Deckers - Finance available For further information phone
BLUELINE BUILDINGS 01709 578333 anytime
CHECKPOINTS
# WANTED # WANTED # WANTED #
SHELTON MOTORS RAMSEY, CAMBS LICENSED ELV CENTRE
ALL BUSES & COACHES WANTED Tel: 01487 813156 (9 - 5, Mon - Fri) Mobile: 07831 349760 Email: sales@shelton-motors.co.uk
# WANTED # WANTED # WANTED #
TO PURCHASE CHECKPOINT/DUSTITE loose wheelnut indicators or to locate your nearest stockist:
CRAIG TILSLEY
ENGINES WANTED # WANTED # WANTED # WANTED
HEAVY DUTY STEEL BUILDINGS
WANTED # WANTED # WANTED # WANTED
BUILDINGS
Don’t forget to say that you saw it in
Tel: 01524 271200
Tel: 01782 791524 or 01782 791527
Fax: 01782 791316
Moorfields Industrial Estate Cotes Heath, Stoke-on-Trent ST21 6QY
DAF MAN MERC, VOLVO SCANIA, GARDNER LEYLAND, CUMMINS ENGINES CYLINDER HEADS CRANKSHAFTS CRANKCASES CAMSHAFTS PUMPS ETC
FUEL SAVING
‘Stop Fuel Theft’ Prevents access to tank, while allowing unrestricted filling Prevents trash being put into tank Wide range to suit most coach and bus fuel tanks
Contact JBL Mechanical Engineers
www.checkpoint-safety.com
Green Fields • Stanton • Shrewsbury • Shropshire SY4 4LR
Tel: 01939 251 351• Fax: 01939 251 051 Mobile: 07831 332 913
ENGINES
Crewe Engines Ltd MERCEDES ENGINE SPECIALISTS
WE ALSO RECONDITION ALL MAKES OF BUS & COACH ENGINES
Direct from the UK’s No.1 since 1975
GARAGE EQUIPMENT
Commercial Garage Equipment Inspection Pits
Brake Testers
01270 526333
www.creweengines.co.uk
VOLVO - CUMMINS - SCANIA MAN - DAF - IVECO FULL FITTING FACILITIES
Commercial Lifts
Mobile Lifts
Tel: 07538 218194 www.commercialgarageequipment.co.uk Email: sales@commercialgarageequipment.co.uk
Call now for a quote or more information
Federation of Engine Re-Manufacturers
Suppliers of Reconditioned
COACH&BUSCLASSIFIED
Looking for a great deal to promote your products and services? Contact Jade Cassidy now for details of our current offers : 01733 293247 jade.cassidy@rouncymedia.co.uk Coach & Bus Week – the only paid-for weekly magazine in the bus and coach industry – there’s no comparison!
SPECIAL OFFERS
Specialists in Used Commercial Garage Equipment
BWS 0117 953 0381 www.bwsequip.co.uk
email: bwsequip@hotmail.com
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COACH&BUSCLASSIFIED INSURANCE
TICKETING
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Seen something funny? Send it to gareth.evans@rouncymedia.co.uk, fax 0845 2802927 or write to: Last Stop, Coach & Bus Week, 3 The Office Village, Cygnet Park, Forder Way, Hampton, Peterborough PE7 8GX
Easter Monday: Press is a day later as shock horror; I decided the editorial team needed a break. However, I do spend a chunk of my day working on CBW – the joys of being the boss and taking personal pride in what I do... In the evening, drive from my parents in the Welsh borderland back to Peterborough.
Las Vegas, disputably the party capital of the world, is now home to ‘Hangover Heaven’, a coach aimed at helping revellers carry on the 24-hour party. After boarding the coach from popular destinations in Sin City, dehydrated, confused and nauseous individuals can choose from two options to help rid them of their condition and get them on their way again. The ‘budget’ option (normally $130, but with a current introductory price of $90), is the Redemption package, which “includes intravenous hydration which can help flush the toxins from your system.” A more comprehensive remedy, the Salvation package
Room for one more hanging from the wipers? A Vietnamese traffic cop was taken for a terrifying ride by a coach he was attempting to give a ticket to on Monday, April 9. Officer Manh Phan ordered the vehicle to pull over
Dilbert
(normally $200, currently $150) also includes antinausea and anti-inflammatory medications and vitamin supplementation. The coach itself is decked out with a plush interior, and features a front lounge, mid-section with bunks, and a rear lounge, as well as a bathroom and private interview room. The vehicles are also fitted with GPS, so potential hangover victims can log onto www.hangoverheaven.com to view the whereabouts of the coach. The CBW office believes that while it may sound great, shelling out at least $90 doesn’t seem worth it. Time, lots of water and fresh air seems a much more financially sound option...
after seeing it driving on the wrong side of the road. When the coach driver Phung Hong Phuong failed to produce the relevant papers, he jumped back on board, resulting in Phan grabbing the windscreen wipers in an attempt to stall Phuong. However, Phuong didn’t seem to mind and drove off, leaving Phan clinging to the windscreen wipers for nearly a mile as traffic rushed past. Footage of the event made it onto Youtube, viewable at http://tinyurl.
com/cz64vxj, although it does make you wonder why the ‘cameraman’s’ vehicle did not decide to stop in front of the coach and give Phan’s arms a rest. Perhaps they thought the 39-seater vehicle merely didn’t have enough seating space. The driver eventually pulled over and was arrested and charged with acting against public officials. Phan reportedly ‘followed the correct procedure.’ Let’s hope it will be some time before Phuong’s driving license is wiped clean…
Tuesday: Press day. It’s one of those days where I rise early and frankly start off grumpy. Under pressure, I’m happy with only myself for company but the dark clouds soon pass thanks to several coffees. By the time all my colleagues are present, I’m my usual chirpy self. We get the job done well, even if I do say so myself, and there is a sense of achievement by the end of the day. Wednesday: Post off some recent eBay sales, the latest phase of ‘Operation Clearout’ at home. Start in the office earlier than normal to meet an important advertising client. Forge on with this issue. Thursday: A busy day in the office. Enjoy a conversation with a key figure in a large operator, who seems to go out of her way to help me, being a firm fan of CBW. In the evening, apply the first coat of gloss to the woodwork in the study. Also enjoy a catch up on the phone with a good friend and industry professional. Friday: A hectic day in the office getting as much material as possible to Art Director Keith ready for design. Receive positive feedback about part 1 of the Go-Ahead in-depth feature from important quarters. Andrew, Alex and I get several pages subbed and ready for PDFing. End up leaving the office an hour later than planned. Industry friend Paul McNamara texts me to say he’s staying in Peterborough over night, so enjoy a much-needed catch up in the Brewery Tap over one of my favourite tipples - JHB ale.
www.coachandbusweek.com
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RECRUITMENT
Nominations open for Women 1st Shine Awards 2012 Nominations are now open for the Women 1st Shine Awards 2012 - the only awards designed to recognise female achievement in the hospitality, travel and tourism industries. These awards are designed to commend businesses and individuals which support female development and retention. This year, the awards have been expanded to include women and organisations in the passenger transport industry in which 22% of the workforce is female. The categories for this year’s Women 1st Shine Awards are: Woman of the Year, Lifetime Achievement, Outstanding Entrepreneur, Mentor of the Year (male and female nominees accepted), Rising Star, Small Business and Large Business. Winners are announced at a gala dinner on June 19, 2012,
Deadlines Booking: Monday 5.00pm Full artwork: Monday 5.00pm
at the Jumeirah Carlton Tower Hotel in London’s Knightsbridge, following the inaugural Women 1st Conference. The evening will also see 25 inspirational females inducted into the Women 1st Top 100 Club. Sharon Glancy, founder of Women 1st, said: “The importance of recognising and celebrating female talent and influence is more important now than ever before. The Women 1st Shine Awards present a fantastic opportunity to highlight the vital role women play in our passenger transport sector, as well as the unique approach and skills they bring to the table. Last year’s awards were an amazing success, and we are delighted to launch the 2012 entries to identify and recognise the unsung heroes in our vibrant industry.” In July 2011, People 1st and GoSkills formally merged to create a strong unified sector skills council which was designed to meet the combined needs of the hospitality, passenger transport and travel industries.
Nominations can be made at people1st.co.uk/ shineawards and entries close on May 4, 2012.
Paul McGowan is First’s Regional Project Director
Paul McGowan has been appointed as First Regional Project Director for its Scottish operations. He joined the company at the start of April from the Abellio Group where he was latterly its European Bus Strategy & Business Development Director. Neil Barker, Regional Managing Director for Scotland, said: “Paul will be responsible for driving progress on a range of programmes which are designed to underpin a new way of doing things in our depots and ultimately provide benefits to the customer. “I’m pleased that in Paul we’ve been able to secure someone who knows our business well, has a proven track record and is results driven.” Paul, who has previously held several managing director positions at National Express, Abellio and FirstGroup commented: “I am very pleased to be returning to FirstGroup and feel that the
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Contact Ian Gillis 01733 293484
ian.gillis@rouncymedia.co.uk
Mistral Group appoints Regional Sales Manager The Mistral Group has appointed William Devine as Regional Sales Manager for Scotland. He will work with existing Mistral customers and all bus and coach operators in Scotland and NE England in the finance, rental and sales divisions. William has a wealth of experience in commercial finance, leasing, rental and sales in the Scottish marketplace. He recently worked for Dawsonrentals for three years as their Regional Sales Manager in Scotland. His experience of the Scottish market and the operators within it will be a key asset of this next phase of development and growth for Mistral Group, the Knutsford, Cheshire-based bus dealer and rental specialist. Guy Wadsworth, Commercial Director at Mistral Asset Finance
Ltd, said: “Scotland is a key target for Mistral’s development and we look forward to benefiting from William’s knowledge of the market. We wish him every success in his new role.”
William Devine has previous experience in the Scottish bus and coach marketplace
Your First Choice for Recruitment
Coach & Bus Week’s well-established recruitment portfolio attracts candidates across sales, marketing and management, delivering not just quantity but quality candidates, providing exceptional value for money. Paul McGowan left Abellio at the end of 2011 knowledge and experience I’ve gained throughout my career will bring benefits to the business in Scotland.” Paul will be based at First Glasgow’s depot in Larkfield and will regularly visit First’s other operations in Scotland.
In addition to our unrivalled print-based product, at no extra cost recruitment adverts are also automatically placed online at www.coachandbusweek.com, where they remain on view until a position’s closing date. Coach & Bus Week and www.coachandbusweek.com combine to create the ultimate recruitment solution, guaranteeing your vacancy is seen by every jobseeker that matters from sales agents to board level. To get your vacancy seen by quality candidates, call Ian Gillis on 01733 293484 or email ian.gillis@rouncymedia.co.uk www.coachandbusweek.com
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