Coach & Bus Week : Issue 1056

Wednesday October 3, 2012 Issue 1056 | ÂŁ2.95 www.coachandbusweek.com

COACH:

Weavaway expands with takeover of Tappins p8

SHOW REPORT: BUS: The next installment of the IAA CV Show review p22

Arriva unveils its electric bus project for Milton Keynes p4

UK Bus Awards: A shortlist for success p6

Cover2.indd 1

FINANCE:

A new way to secure a loan from website Funding Circle p34

for recruitm

JOB ADVE ent EVERY WERTS EK

RECRUIT N

OW

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this week

Coach & Bus Week, 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@coachandbusweek.com Editor Gareth Evans 01733 293243 gareth.evans@coachandbusweek.com Technical & Minibus Editor Martin Cole 01733 293245, 07885 692144 martin.cole@coachandbusweek.com Features Editor Andrew Cream 01733 293482 andrew.cream@coachandbusweek.com News Reporter James Day 01733 293244 james.day@coachandbusweek.com News Reporter Alex Tyler 01733 293240 alex.tyler@coachandbusweek.com Art Director Keith Simpson Contributors Tim Deakin, Richard Charnley, Gabriel Conway, Alan Payling

ADVERTISING, MARKETING & EVENTS Advertising & Marketing Manager Ian Gillis 01733 293484 ian.gillis@coachandbusweek.com Advertising Sales Executive Victoria Schult 01733 293248 victoria.schult@coachandbusweek.com Classified Sales Executive Jade Cassidy 01733 293247 jade.cassidy@coachandbusweek.com Advertising Production June Barnard 01473 858761 june@adsproduction.co.uk

SUBSCRIPTIONS & circulation Subscriptions & Circulation Manager Samantha Noble 01733 293480 samantha.noble@coachandbusweek.com Annual subscription rate for 51 issues: UK £85, Europe/Eire £140, USA and RoW £295 ONLINE £44.95

www.coachandbusweek.com ISSN: 1351-3877 © 2012 Coach and Bus Week Ltd. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form or system or in any means without the written permission of the directors. This is considered a breach of copyright and action will be taken where this occurs. This magazine must not be lent, sold, hired or otherwise disposed of in a mutilated condition or in any authorised cover by way, or by trade, or annexed to any publication or advertising matter without first obtaining written permission from the directors.

The countdown to 20.11.2012

T

he clock has started ticking – there are just seven weeks to go until the UK Bus Awards (UKBA) ceremony takes place at London’s Park Lane Hilton on November 20. As you’ll read on p6 of this issue, the shortlist was announced on Thursday when around 100 representatives ventured to Canary Wharf on one of the few days last week when the weather had actually chosen to be kind. While I was in the midst of a two-day trip visiting operators (see ‘Office Diary’) in North Wales and Shropshire, our Alex, who was covering the event, called me to inform me he had had “a whale of a time.” As his first time at the event, he described everyone as “friendly and welcoming.” He’s now keen to attend the UKBA ceremony.

Turning to the shortlist itself, it’s great to see ‘new’ names and faces which I feel appear to be highly deserving of recognition. Two prime examples are Perrymans of Berwick-upon-Tweed and Ensignbus,

for the Top Independent Operator.

On the people front, I’m delighted to see Tom Morgan and Jeff Clayton shortlisted for the Young Manager of the Year Award, both of whom are highly professional, yet down-to-earth characters. Rightly up for the Unsung Heroes Award is Brighton & Hove’s Ron Hayes, who is a very modest, yet highly experienced industry professional. He also enjoys a spot of friendly banter.

Over all, it’s perhaps notable Go-Ahead Group appears to be dominating this year’s UKBA – in place of Stagecoach in previous years. However, as I was always told, Stagecoach put the effort into entering. Good luck to everyone.

Last but by no means least; the CPT’s popular annual Coach Conference is but three weeks away. I understand on the grapevine it’s taking a slightly different format this year. As ever, I’m sure it will be a prime opportunity for us all to enjoy a good chin wag.

Gareth Evans Editor

CONTENTS 4

22

38

The latest from across the coach and bus industry in the UK

16

The second part of Martin Cole’s look at the European CV Show

32

CBW looks at the leading suppliers of fuel and emissions management

What’s happening across the country’s regions. Plus events diary

20

A Judds Northern Counties Olympian seen in Whittlesey

34

A lighthearted look at the industry.

Plus Office Diary column

New Starter and Battery Charger range from SIP Industrial Products

An innovative method from Funding Circle on obtaining finance

All the latest people moves from across the industry

News

Regional News Products

IAA Part Two

The Big Picture Insight

Essential Guide

61

Last Stop

62

People

The opinions and views expressed by authors and contributors within Coach & Bus Week are not necessarily those of the Editor or its publisher Coach and Bus Week Ltd.

For all the latest industry news and information, register with us online at:

www.coachandbusweek.com www.coachandbusweek.com

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news

“At Reading Buses the rule is drivers should stop when someone is standing at a bus stop.

This is a simple rule which benefits all users.”

James Freeman Reading Buses

News p10

briefly A strike by Brittany Ferries staff in France has been called off. Nearly 1,300 crew members have been on strike over proposals to withdraw allowances and change working hours. It affected the firm’s ferries from Portsmouth, Poole and Plymouth to France and Spain. Eight ferries have been laid up in French ports since the firm stopped its services on September 21 in response to the strike. Services have now resumed, according to the Brittany Ferries website and the firm “apologised sincerely” to those affected. The company has advised anyone already booked on sailings to check in as normal. Anyone else is advised to book before arriving at the port due to limited sailings.

The firm said its arrangements for passengers to take an alternative route during the strike between Calais and Dover would stay in place until Thursday.

An emergency shuttle bus for the Newburn area of Newcastle upon Tyne was introduced on Saturday (September 29). The bus, provided by Nexus, runs every 20 minutes from 0700 until 2000hrs between Newburn village and Throckley. Sainsbury’s is also providing a bus directly between the stores in Throckley and Newburn which will run every 30 minutes between 1100 and 1400hrs on Saturday, Monday and Wednesday only. Nexus introduced the free service as normal routes have been diverted by the closure of Newburn High Street, affected by flood damage last week. The bus is provided by Stagecoach under a contract with Nexus and will be reviewed as the full extent of damage to the local road becomes clear this week. The bus replaces the normal 13, 22 and 71 routes.

These are unable to serve Newburn village and are being diverted through Walbottle and along Hexham Road (in both directions).

Arriva Sverige Operations Director Hans Nilsson has been appointed acting Managing Director, Arriva has confirmed to CBW. The news comes following the resignation of Erik Bech-Jansen who has left the business in Sweden.

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Arriva has collaborated with Wrightbus, Mitsui and Conductix-Wampfler on the project

Electric technology for Milton Keynes Eight new vehicles set for service by summer 2013 Arriva the Shires has joined a project to replace its diesel buses with all-electric vehicles on a service in Milton Keynes by summer 2013.

Eight organisations, led by a subsidiary of Mitsui & Co Europe, signed the five-year collaboration on Tuesday, September 25.

The number 7 route’s diesel buses will be replaced with eight electric buses which will run seven days a week; removing around 500 tonnes of tailpipe CO2 emissions per year as well as 45 tonnes of other noxious tailpipe emissions.

The route currently transports over 775,000 passengers a year.

The trial is a partnership between Mitsui subsidiary eFleet Integrated Service Ltd, Milton Keynes Council, Arriva, Wrightbus, technology supplier Conductix-Wampfler, Western Power Distribution, Chargemaster Plc and SSE. It is managed by Mitsui-Arup joint venture MBK Arup Sustainable Projects (MASP). MASP’s aim is use the data collected by the trial to demonstrate the economic viability of low-carbon public transport. This data could be used to kick-start

electric bus projects in other towns and cities worldwide.

John Miles, who initiated the trial from Arup, said: “What makes the Milton Keynes project different to other electric bus schemes is the wireless charging system. The buses will be able to cover a heavily-used urban route because they are able to charge for 10 minutes at the beginning and end of each cycle without interrupting the timetable.

This means for the first time, an electric bus will effectively be able to do everything a diesel bus can do, which is a significant step forwards to a cleaner, quieter system.”

Noriaki Sakamoto, MD, Mitsui & Co. Europe Plc, said: “Since the withdrawal of the subsidy for diesel buses, we can see the cost of diesel bus operations will rise significantly. This, coupled with the anticipated reduction in the cost of batteries and electric drive systems, as well as the introduction of wirelessly charging during the day now means the electric bus is now a real contender in the future of public transport. Innovation and trials are urgently needed to find a new way forward and Mitsui is happy to back this innovative initiative because we can see the long-term benefit for the

community as well as for Mitsui.”

Dr Lorraine Rock, Wrightbus Global Supply Chain Director, said: “This is the first time such a heavyduty route has been tested with electric buses and it is exciting to be part of this initiative. As the bus manufacturer, we will be on hand to support bus use – providing warranty, maintenance and support services to Arriva as needed.”

Paul Adcock, Area MD of Arriva, said: “We are delighted to be part of this project involving some amazing technology and are proud it is being trialled here. We are responsible for the operation of the buses and ensuring the service is running reliably. This trial will wholly revolutionise route 7 and we are interested to track how the drivers, current customers and potential customers will respond to the quieter, smoother electric buses.”

Cllr John Bint, Cabinet Member responsible for transport at Milton Keynes Council, said: “We are delighted to be leading the way with this innovative public transport trial. Milton Keynes led the way with the installation of electric car charge points, and we’re now showing the world how electric buses are a real alternative to the traditional diesel buses.”

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Further funding for hybrids in Scotland Scottish Transport Minister Keith Brown has revealed the government is providing a further £2.5m for the Scottish Green Bus Fund. £9.2m has been invested in the scheme since 2010. This has allowed Scottish bus operators to purchase 74 eco-friendly vehicles.

It follows an additional £3m brought forward in economic stimulus funding for the Green Bus Fund in August.

Brown confirmed the funding during a Parliamentary debate.

Speaking before the debate, he said: “The Scottish Green Bus Fund has already been a huge success and is further evidence of everything this Government continues to do to support the bus industry, how we are working to meet our ambitious

climate change targets and our investment in supporting Scottish jobs.

“Green Buses also help operators to keep their running costs down thanks to the massive reductions in fuel consumption and this can only be good news for passengers.

“We want the people of Scotland to experience the very real benefits of Green Buses and this announcement will have a huge impact on that ambition.

“Low carbon transport benefits us all through an improved environment and a strong public transport network plays a part in this, as well as cutting congestion on the roads and making them safer for all users.”

Colin Robertson, CEO of Alexander Dennis Limited (ADL), said: “The success of our hybrids is beyond question, which is a feather in the cap for ADL, Scottish innovation and our nation’s pacesetting engineering skills.

“There are now almost 450 ADL hybrids operating in the UK, mainland Europe, Hong Kong and Sydney – but we need to keep

Northern Ireland Transport Minister Danny Kennedy has announced a £29m investment in new coaches and buses for Translink’s Goldline and Metro fleet for Ulster.

The Minister visited the Europa

Bus centre in Belfast where he saw a sample of the 87 new Scania Irizar Goldline Coaches and 58 Wright-bodied Volvo single and double-decker buses for urban Metro routes. The Department for Regional Development has provided funding towards their acquisition.

Danny Kennedy said: “A number of the Goldline Coaches and Metro buses have already entered service this month with the remainder to be introduced later this year and in early 2013.

“The coaches will be delivering

Translink gains funding for 145 new buses

our foot on the pedal in terms of advancing the technology even further.

“Our hybrids are currently demonstrating a 60% reduction in fuel and CO2 compared to many conventional diesel buses.

“We will take our nextgeneration hybrid to another level in 2013 and I expect to see that improvement figure move towards 70%. These are vehicles which keep their promises and can make a huge contribution towards cleanair initiatives in city environments.”

Transport Minister Keith Brown has announced more SGBF funding enhanced express services on key (longer journey) Goldline routes.

When all these new coaches are in service, the majority of Goldine Express journeys will be operated with modern vehicles. These new coaches are of a very high standard of comfort and quality.

“WiFi has also been retro-fitted to a number of the coaches in the current fleet giving passengers access to free internet on key Goldline routes from early October.

Translink also plans to offer free WiFi on most Goldline services from early 2013.”

Jenkinson celebrates anniversary Rotherham-based Jenkinson Insurance, which has gained a significant share of the UK taxi and minibus market in recent years, is celebrating 10 years by expanding into the bus and coach industry.

Jenkinson Insurance’ parent company operates in many commercial insurance markets, but its taxi division was launched in October 2002 to serve an increasing number of enquiries from fleet owners and individuals.

“Excellent levels of service and a ‘no-nonsense’ approach quickly won us a lot of friends,” said Manager Bill Cheeseman.

“We’ve been writing an increasing amount of Bus and Coach business in the last couple of years and hope to see this important and buoyant market become a major part of our activities.”

The Metro-branded buses are replacing older single-deck buses in the fleet making all Metro Services low floor. The additional doubledeckers will ensure Translink enhances passenger capacity on busy routes.

Catherine Mason, Group Chief Executive, Translink said: “This major investment in our bus fleet ensures we continue to provide accessible and attractive bus services for Northern Ireland and we welcome and thank the Minister and his Department for their ongoing support.”

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2,500

news › BUSeS

The amount in bar Bosch is raising its commercial vehicle fuel injection pressure

briefly Reading Borough Council has announced free 24-hour bus travel for pensioners in Reading could be reinstated. In April 2011, the authority chose to honour only the statutory element of the scheme, meaning passes were not valid before 0930hrs. Since October 1, the council, now run by Labour, has extended the time to 0900.

It said the cost of the half-hour change would amount to between £29,000 and £46,000 per year and would be funded from bus lane fines. The authority also said it will fund a 20% fare cut in part of south Reading in a trial scheme aimed at boosting ridership.

A team from the West Midlands transport authority Centro is at bus stations across the region this week to talk to the public and find out what they think of the area’s services. The initiative is part of National Customer Service Week (NCS), a nationwide event for organisations to demonstrate their commitment to customer service and showcase its importance to the UK economy and society as a whole. The Centro roadshow events take place at the following locations between today (Wednesday) and Saturday, 1100 to 1500hrs: Walsall Bus Station, Dudley Bus Station, Concourse, Wolverhampton Bus Station, Main Concourse, Coventry Bus Station and West Bromwich Bus Station.

Nottingham City Transport (NCT) has improved Go2 Pink Line with an increased frequency and refurbished buses.

NCT encouraged passengers to ‘Think Pink,’ as the firm launched its new and improved Go2 Pink Line. From Sunday September 30, the Pink Go2 28, which runs between Bilborough, Beechdale, Jubilee Campus and the city centre, increased in frequency on Sunday daytimes – from every 20 minutes to every eight minutes. Frequencies have also increased on Monday to Saturday evenings, which now run every 15 minutes until midnight as opposed to every 30 minutes.

CBW would like to publicly acknowledge Clive Sherlock for the cover shot of this issue. Visit www.clivesherlock.com

UK Bus Awards shortlist announced The annual industry competition boasts a diverse list of entrants, ranging from the independent to the municipal The shortlist for the 2012 UK Bus Awards (UKBA) was announced at the Tubelines Auditorium in London’s Canary Wharf on September 27, before an audience of around 100 representing shortlisted organisations, sponsors and other stakeholders. More than 90 people selected from 270 nominations go forward to

the final judging and mystery traveller checks with winners being announced November 20 at the lunchtime awards ceremony held at the London Park Lane Hilton.

Go-Ahead Group tops the list with 20 places, followed by Stagecoach with 13 places, Arriva with 10 and FirstGroup with nine. Other groups, independents and municipal operators also feature strongly.

At the event, UKBA Director Chris Cheek spoke of the industry’s role in the Olympics saying it showed “what good can look like.” He

Attendees cheer in front of two New Buses for London UK Bus Awards 2012 Shortlist: Operating Awards Top Express Operation, sponsored by Volvo Bus n Arriva the Shires - Green Line 757 n Oxford Bus Company - the airline n Scottish Citylink - Express Service Network n Stagecoach East Scotland - Express City Connect Top National Bus Depot, sponsored by Personal Group n Burnley, Transdev Blazefield n Crawley, Metrobus n Huddersfield, First West Yorkshire n Speke, Arriva North West Top City Operator, sponsored by BAE Systems n Go North East n Nottingham City Transport n Stagecoach Manchester n Stagecoach Sheffield n Transdev Keighley & District Top Shire Operator, sponsored by Ticketer n Bluestar n Metrobus n Oxford Bus Company n Reading Buses

n Stagecoach South West n Thamesdown Transport n Transdev Burnley & Pendle Top Independent Operator, sponsored by Scania n DRM of Bromyard n Ensignbus, Thurrock n Ipswich Buses n Newport Transport n Perrymans, Berwick-upon-Tweed Technical & Professional Awards Environment Award, sponsored by Heathrow Airport n First Group - Small Changes, Big Difference n Reading Buses - Hybrid Power n Stagecoach East Midlands - Lincoln BioBuses n Stagecoach South West - Green Champions n Volvo Buses - The Volvo Hybrid Bus Innovation Award, sponsored by Alexander Dennis n Go-Ahead Group/Go North East - The Key Lifestyle n Oxfordshire County Council, Oxford Bus Company and Stagecoach Oxford - Oxford SmartZone n Newport Transport - Unigo n Translink - Safety Bus n Stagecoach Group/Scottish Citylink -

was followed by Reading Buses CEO James Freeman and Chloe Leach­-O’connel Head of Regional Marketing at Arriva Yorkshire and North East. Both were keen to stress the importance of the positive publicity gained from the awards and encouraged nominees to share the news of their successes.

Two attending NBfL provided transport throughout the day.

Asked how this had been organised, recently appointed UKBA Director of Communications Trevor Whelan replied: “with friends in high places.”

The coveted UK Bus Operator of the Year, sponsored by Belmont International and QBE Insurance, is chosen from the winners of the Top City, Top Shire and Top Independent categories and will be announced alongside the winners of The Local Authority Project of the Year and the Award for Services to the Bus Industry at the ceremony.

In addition the Transport Hero Award for the 2012 Games has been introduced this year and nominations for this award close on October 5 following the completion of the Games contracts. A shortlist will be announced later this month.

Megabus Sleeper Service n West Yorkshire ITA (Metro) - Metroville The Claudia Flanders Memorial Award for Putting Passengers First n Go North East - Moving with our People n Transdev York - York Unibus, A Partnership for Progress n Stephensons of Essex - Breeze n Konectbus - Konectexpress 8 Making Buses A Better Choice: the Peter Huntley Memorial Award, sponsored by The TAS Partnership n Go-Ahead Group - The Key ITSO Smartcard n First Hampshire & Dorset with Hampshire CC - Eclipse n First Bristol and Partners - Greater Bristol Bus Network n Nottingham City Transport - Social Media & Technology n Stagecoach East - The Busway n TrentBarton - rapid 1, the car users’ choice The Eureka! Award for Marketing Initiatives, sponsored by CBS Outdoor n Arriva Yorkshire - We are Yorkshire n Bluestar - The Smarter Way to Pay The Key n Ensign Bus Company & First Essex

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01/10/2012 18:39

270

The number of nominations for the UK Bus Awards Buses - CollegeBUS ■ Go North East - Maximising the Benefits of Social Networking ■ Reading Buses - Jet Black is the New Black ■ Translink - Metro Smart Saturdays The Marketing Excellence Award ■ Trent Barton - MANGO-no cash, no fuss, no brainer ■ Metrobus - Horsham - Getting the Basics Right ■ Go North East - The Key ■ Reays Coaches - Hopping Mad ■ Arriva the Shires - Green Line 757 The Bus and the Community Award ■ Arriva the Shires - Keech Hospice ■ First UK Bus North Region - Charity in the Community ■ First Cymru - A Bus Company Working with its Local Community ■ First London - Greenford Library Bus ■ Network Warrington - Supporting the Community AWARDS FOR INDUSTRY PEOPLE The Young Manager of the Year Award, sponsored by the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport ■ Jeff Clayton (First Manchester) ■ Tom Morgan (TrentBarton) ■ Selina Pipe (Arriva Midlands) ■ Vicky Tomlinson (First West Yorkshire) The Unsung Heroes Award, sponsored by Backhouse Jones ■ Ron Hayes (Brighton & Hove) ■ Patrick Hughes (National Express West Midlands) ■ Andrew Howard-Smith (Stagecoach Manchester) ■ Dennis Tomlinson (Transdev Burnley & Pendle) The Chris Moyes Memorial Award for Top National Bus Driver, sponsored by Adelaide Insurance ■ Elaine Allitt (TrentBarton) ■ Ian Fraser (Stagecoach East Scotland) ■ Allan Gilmour (TrentBarton) ■ Sharon Harry (Oxford Bus) ■ Vanessa Knowling (Yellow Buses Bournemouth) ■ John Russell (Metrobus) ■ Mick Silverwood (Transdev Keighley & District) ■ Matthew Stacey (Cardiff Bus) The Engineer of the Year Award ■ Mike Butt (Stagecoach West) ■ Russell Cato (Arriva the Shires) ■ John Trubshaw (Arriva Midlands) ■ Cliff Ward (Arriva the Shires) ■ Andrew Wilson (First Manchester) LONDON AWARDS TfL Award for London Bus Garage of the Year ■ Barking, Stagecoach East London ■ Cricklewood, Metroline ■ Merton, London General ■ Orpington, Metrobus ■ Putney, London General Luke Rees-Pulley Charitable Trust Award for Top London Bus Driver ■ Peter Bennett, Arriva London ■ Rui Branco, Abellio London ■ Scott Horney, Go-Ahead London ■ Roy Lambe, Go-Ahead London ■ Angela Spragg, Quality Line ■ Kamya Ssemakadde, London United ■ Peter Varley, Stagecoach London ■ Warren Wills, London United

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October 3, 2012 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 7

99%

The amount of enterprise accounted for by small business in the UK, according the Federation of Small Business

SHARE WATCH

Industry share prices at the close of the Stock Exchange on Monday, October 1. Optare saw the greatest proportional rise while National Express saw the greatest proportional drop.

Most figures obtained from www.iii.co.uk

327.85p

Price: Year High: 367.50p Year Low: 248.95p

-7.45 on last week

Courtney Coaches feels the Solo SR is a winner all-round

Courtney Group upgrades �leet with Solo SRs Berkshire-based Courtney Coach Group has ordered 11 Optare Solo SRs to form the backbone of a renewal of its bus fleet and to maintain the maximum age profile of five years on its Corporate and Bus network.

Deliveries will commence in November with the conclusion of the order in line with Courtney’s requirements in January 2013.

Ten of the vehicles are standard width versions at 9 metres in length. They are equipped with Esteban Civic V3 seating and will also feature Synetics CCTV and Hanover LED destination equipment. The 11th vehicle is a SlimLine variant, which at just 2.35

metres in width will be well suited to some of the narrower routes on which Courtney’s operate.

Optare Sales Director John Horn commented: “Rising fuel costs continue to put pressure on all bus operators and we know our class leading Solo SR continues to prove the most fuel efficient vehicle in this sector.”

Bill Courtney, Courtney Coaches MD said: “Courtneys have first-hand experience of Optare products.

Operating in both corporate business parks and public bus services, it was imperative we chose vehicles which could not only deliver a reliable service, but also portray a professional image.”

Wrightbus has secured a repeat order from Go Ahead London, which will see 23 new two-door StreeLites joining a fleet of nine single-door examples in the fleet.

All of the new vehicles – all Door Forward variants – are set to be in service by May 2013 on three routes. Two of these will run out of Northumberland Park (Route Nos. 327 and 491) and one from Merton Garage (Route No. 219).

The Door Forward version of StreetLite follows in the footsteps of the 8.8m single door, ‘Wheel Forward’ variants originally supplied to Go Ahead London in

2011. It shares the same Cummins 4 cylinder iSBE EEV Euro 5 engine, matched to the Voith DIWA gearbox with integral hydrodynamic retarder.

In the two-door TfL specification guise, a StreetLite can accommodate up to 71 passengers with seating configured for 31 or 35 seats, dependent upon vehicle lengths (10.2 or 10.8m).

Steve Jackson, National Accounts Manager for Wrightbus said: “It’s a lightweight powertrain and our own design independent front suspension system and innovative use of composite materials combine to make StreetLite ‘mean and lean’ in a market segment which is a very weight and value sensitive.”

Go Ahead’s Group Engineering Director, Phil Margrave, added: “Our experience to date with the first batch of vehicles has been very favourable in terms of passenger and driver reaction, in-service performance and reliability.”

More StreetLites for Go Ahead London

241.10p

Price: Year High: 350.00p Year Low: 184.70p

1319.0p

Price: Year High: 1509.0p Year Low: 1074.0p

210.25p

Price: Year High: 256.20p Year Low: 176.50p

282.05p

Price: Year High: 300.00p Year Low: 227.90p

0.57p

Price: Year High: 2.25p Year Low: 0.20p

44.50p

Price: Year High: 45.00p Year Low: 36.00p

78.73p

Price: Year High: 81.45p Year Low: 62.29p

10.75p

Price: Year High: 20.00p Year Low: 10.25p

-6.15 on last week

-50.00 on last week

-10.15 on last week

-2.90 on last week

+0.06 on last week

-0.50 on last week

-0.36 on last week

+0.00 on last week

FTSE 100

5,807

Index: Year High: 6,103 Year Low: 4,791

-14

on last week

www.coachandbusweek.com

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news › coaches

briefly Work to replace the crash barrier on the westbound link road between M6 J10a and the M54 J1 near Essington in is due to begin on October 15. The work will be carried out overnight between 2200 and 0600hrs, with traffic diverted along the M6 northbound past J10a. At J12, traffic should take the A5 westbound until Gailey roundabout. At the island, traffic should take the A449 southbound and continue until J2 of the M54.

Drivers can then re-join the M54 westbound. The work is expected to last two weeks.

Work to replace joints on Witton Viaduct on the M6 between J6 and 7 in Birmingham started on October 1 as part of the structure’s on-going maintenance.

The work, which is expected to last two weeks, is to be carried out at night between 2000 and 0600hrs. During the work, the M6 northbound between J6 and 7 will be closed overnight. Traffic will is to diverted along the A5127, the A4640, and then the A34 to rejoin join the M6 at J7.

Repair work to improve journeys on the A47 between Wendling and Toftwood in Dereham in Norfolk is set to begin on Thursday October 11. The work will take place between 2000 and 0600hrs on both the eastbound and westbound carriageways between Dereham Road, Wendling and the A1075 Toftwood Interchange at Dereham. A temporary 40mph speed limit, and temporary two way traffic signals, will be in effect. After overnight work on Friday October 12, the signals will remain in operation throughout the day on Saturday until 1000hrs Sunday October 14. Once resurfacing is complete, overnight work to repair the road surface will continue from October 15–23 inclusive.

The southbound carriageway of the M42 between J10 and 9 is to be closed overnight from 2000 to 0600hrs from Monday (October 1) to Saturday, November 3 for carriageway resurfacing and associated works. A diversion route will be clearly signposted. www.coachandbusweek.com

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Weavaway directors purchase Tappins Acquisition includes purposebuilt site for 50 vehicles, large offices, a six-bay workshop, bodyshop and coach wash Michelle Wadsworth and Simon Weaver of Newbury-based coach firm Weavaway acquired Tappins Coaches from Heyfordian Holdings on September 30.

Didcot-based Tappins, which operates a fleet of over 30 Volvo coaches, can trace its origins back to 1900 and has been operated as part of the Heyfordian group since 2007. All operations, engineering and driving staff are to remain, under the stewardship of General Manager David Walker.

In addition to its coach business, Weavaway trades as Countywide Travel in Basingstoke, Haywards Coaches in Reading, and Abingdon Coaches in Abingdon. Local bus services in West Berkshire and Hampshire are operated by sister company Newbury & District.

As part of the purchase, around 12 Weavaway coaches have transferred to Tappins, including late-model Skyliners, Van Hools, and high-capacity Iveco Panthers.

Brand new coaches are expected to enter the Tappins fleet in early 2013. A key aspect of the acquisition is the purpose-built site, which provides secure parking for 50 vehicles, large offices, a six-bay

The acquisition of Tappins increases the company’s catchment area in the Thames Valley. A Tappins Plaxton Volvo is seen in Oxford last December

Protesters to return to Peak District Tarmac Operators may wish to take note of the dates listed here and amend any scheduled excursions to the Peak District area to avoid being caught in slow-moving traffic.

Trail-riding protesters are set to return to the tarmac roads of the Peak District for four more times this year in objection to attempts to ban them from 25 of the most

important lanes in the National Park.

Motorcyclists of the Trail Riders Fellowship will be joined by 4x4 drivers from all over the country and local enthusiasts operating under the umbrella of the Peak District Vehicle Users Group in a series of ‘slow driving’ rides on Peak District roads on 21 October, 25 November and 30 December.

The ‘Back to Tarmac’ days follow a successful day of action on August Bank Holiday Sunday, during which hundreds of motorcycles and 4x4s were driven slowly around the park.

Protest organisers hope to highlight to locals the unintended consequences of a green lane ban for vehicles.

workshop, bodyshop and coach wash.

Simon Weaver said: “The Tappins business is an excellent fit with our existing activities in South Oxfordshire. We have successfully developed the Abingdon Coaches brand, and the acquisition of Tappins will enable this part of the Weavaway business to operate from its Didcot site.

“It is our intention to promote Tappins Coaches as an Oxfordbased business, thereby avoiding brand conflict.

“Our Weavaway Travel and Newbury & District businesses operate a total of 60 vehicles, and with the addition of Tappins the size of the overall operation most certainly warrants the type of facility which exists in Didcot.

“The acquisition of Tappins will see our catchment area stretch right across the Thames Valley from Witney to Winchester, and Hungerford to Henley.

“Heyfordian Holdings is to be congratulated for maintaining a state of the art facility of this high standard. We intend to build on this with investment in the future to ensure Tappins continuing reputation as a top quality operator in an area where it enjoys an excellent reputation.”

Visit Weavaway’s website at www.weavaway.co.uk.

A spokesman said: “We enjoy pottering about the countryside, using legal unsurfaced rights-ofway on our bikes and in our 4x4s.

If we can no longer enjoy this experience on legal rights of way, then we will recreate it on tarmac roads.

“The Peak District National Park has allocated £100,000 of taxpayer’s money to fund its ban.

PDVUG and the TRF believe that this money could have been better spent improving facilities for all.”

The motorcycles will travel no faster than 25 mph with the 4x4s going far slower, taking in many of the tourist sites of the National Park.

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“Companies can obtain loans between £5,000 and £250,000 and above. For the coach and bus industry it’s the perfect size.”

David de Koning Funding Circle

Greys of Ely support BUSK Renowned coach operator Greys of Ely is backing a campaign aimed at improving the safety of school children travelling on coaches.

Pressure group Belt Up School Kids (BUSK) used School Transport Week, which ran from September 24-30, to raise awareness about transport safety after two fatal coach crashes this year.

Greys, which is the first Cambridgeshire operator to have been awarded Simply Safe accreditation from BUSK, is lending its support to the campaign by writing to the head-teachers and governing bodies of all schools and colleges in the county to ensure they have a School Transport Policy which includes BUSK’s suggested guidelines.

Grey’s Managing Director, Richard Grey said: “Most schools

Selfs sell interest in Royal Blue

Dorset coach operator Royal Blue Motorcoach is being sold to Co-founder Giovanna Heritage for an undisclosed sum following the withdrawal of the Self family’s interests.

The transfer allows well-known coach industry figures Joan and Mark Self to concentrate on other interests.

cannot afford to employ a Transport Manager and all are under huge financial pressure but there is plenty of information available to help teachers and governing bodies check that the arrangements they have in place are fully compliant with the law and also satisfy the guidelines set down

by BUSK.” BUSK Director Pat Harris added: “Parents trust and expect the school

Insight p34 to hire the safest, not the cheapest coach company. BUSK believes we should not expect teachers to become transport managers and that parents should be prepared to pay a pound or two more on the cost of the trip to enable schools to consider hiring a coach for the going rate.”

Visit the BUSK website at www.busk-uk.com

Grey’s of Ely joins well-known names like Maynes, Roselyn and Barnes Completing the deal on the Wimborne Mister-based company, Mark Self, former Operations Manager, told CBW: “Our work with Giovanna has been a memorable and wonderful journey and we wish her all the very best with this well-loved brand. However, our work is done and the disposal of our interests in Royal Blue allows us to concentrate on other exciting projects – industry and nonindustry related – which we wish to pursue.”

Commenting on the news, Giovanna Heritage, said: “The share purchase was a natural progression

for my business interests. I wish both Joan and Mark all the best on their future projects.”

Formed in 2012, Royal Blue Motorcoach describes itself as “a new company with traditional values.” While the name Royal Blue is a well-loved name of the past, the company is keen to stress in no circumstances is it seeking to portray or imitate (in every sense) the Royal Blue of yester-year.

Call Royal Blue Motorcoach on 01202 904977. Visit the company’ website at www. royalbluemotorcoach.co.uk

Michelin promotes new coach and truck tyres Michelin has been promoting its new truck and coach tyre, the 295/80 R 22.5 Michelin X MultiWay 3D, with a 13-stop tour of ATS Euromaster centres around the UK. The three-day tour began last Tuesday (September 25) in Warrington, visiting a further 12 tyre dealers before finishing in Stoke on September 27.

The tour’s progress around the country has been documented on Twitter, with more than 100 tyre fitters, centre managers and fleet operators inspecting the new tyre during the tour.

The X MultiWay 3D is being introduced principally for UK fleets, where this popular size is favoured by operators. Testing has shown a 15% increase in total mileage performance and significantly reduced rolling resistance.

The tyre gets its name from three-dimensional tread sipes which generate grip in difficult climatic conditions, locking together when needed to maintain the stability of the tread band.

The tyres also have excellent grip under braking, throughout their life, thanks to the incorporation of Michelin Durable Technologies.

The new 295/80 X MultiWay 3D XZE steer tyre is available now, and will be followed by the X MultiWay 3D XDE drive axle pattern.

Manufactured in Ballymena, the design replaces the current XZE2+, XDE2+ and XDN2 Grip ranges.

www.coachandbusweek.com

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RNIB calls for operators to remove bus barriers Stop for me, Speak to me campaign launched to help ensure drivers do more to help blind and partially sighted people The Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) has launched its bus campaign ‘Stop for me, Speak to me.’

It is calling on bus operators to remove the barriers blind and partially sighted people face when making bus journeys including trying to flag down, board and get off a bus at the right stop.

An RNIB survey of blind and partially sighted people revealed a number of barriers: Six in 10 people said buses which stopped away from the official bus stop caused them to often miss their bus or step off the bus into hazards such as bins and lampposts.

Over half of respondents said they had difficulty obtaining spoken information from the driver such as the bus number and destination.

Many respondents found it difficult to hear the driver through the assault screens, meaning they couldn’t obtain the necessary verbal information they needed to make their journey.

Fazilet Hadi, RNIB’s Director of Inclusive Society, said: “Catching a

Arriva invests £1.7m in Luton Busway fleet Arriva is putting into service 11 brand-new buses on its route 38, which runs between Houghton Regis, Dunstable, L&D Hospital and Luton.

The new vehicles represent an investment of £1.7m and bring the number of new buses purchased for services in the area to 26 in the last 12 months, a total investment of over £4.5m.

The new buses are Wrightbus Eclipse 2-bodied Volvo B7RLEs. They have 7.3-litre engines and www.coachandbusweek.com

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bus should not be a sight test. Local bus travel is a lifeline, providing an important means of transport within the community for those who are not able to drive. Buses are often the only affordable way to travel independently to work, appointments or to visit friends and family. However, the difficulties blind and partially sighted people face in making journeys which other people often take for granted are unacceptable and often unnecessary. We want operators

A blind or partially sighted person would not be able to see whether an approaching bus was one they needed to board weigh over 10 tonnes when empty.

Each vehicle has 46 seats.

The buses will operate along the Luton-Dunstable busway when it opens in 2013 and are fully prepared for the fitment of the guide wheels and with different suspension to offer a smooth ride.

Providing links to between Luton, Dunstable and Houghton Regis as well as schools, colleges and the hospital, the 38 is popular with people travelling to work, school and college.

Arriva the Shires & Essex Managing Director Paul Adcock said: “Our massive investment in the last 12 months demonstrates a strong commitment to providing everyone in the local area with a quality network of buses, routes and timetables.”

Cllr Nigel Young of Central

to remember one simple principle: Stop for me, Speak to me.”

Shirley Grisedale, 62, from Penrith in Cumbria, is registered blind. She said: “I have been left stranded at the bus stop when buses have sailed past me and not stopped. Because I live in quite a rural area, a lot of the stops are not compulsory stops and therefore the drivers won’t stop if you don’t stick out your arm.

“Once I am on the bus, it can be frustrating as the drivers often don’t talk to you and stay silent. It can be frightening when they forget to tell you when your stop is and you end up in an unfamiliar place or at the station and a friend has to come and get you.”

The report is calling on bus operators to: n Ensure all drivers stop for blind and partially sighted people waiting at a bus stop because nine in 10 cannot see to hail it; n Ensure all drivers speak to blind and partially sighted people boarding the bus because the majority struggle to get clear information from the driver without accessible information many cannot travel; n Ensure all drivers always check the official bus stop for waiting blind and partially sighted

The new Wrightbus-bodied Volvo B7RLEs are already prepared with guidewheel fitting for the LutonDunstable Busway Bedfordshire Council said: “We are really thrilled to be working with Arriva to bring the Busway to life and these new, top-quality buses are a fantastic part of what

customers and provide clear spoken information to them - nods and gestures are not helpful to someone with sight loss; and n Include a slide open section in any new or replacement assault screens to enable drivers to clearly speak to customers with sight loss.

New EU Passenger Rights Regulations come into force on March 1, 2013. The new rights awarded to disabled people offer more protection than the Equality Act, particularly in terms of access to travel information and assistance.

James Freeman, CEO of Reading Transport, said: “I think treating every stop as a request stop is not the right way to run a service – not just because of people with sight loss who may not be able to see the bus, but for anyone who might be unsure. At Reading Buses the rule is drivers should stop when someone is standing at a bus stop.

This is a simple rule which benefits all users.”

Ms Hadi added: “We do not believe any driver wants to leave anyone behind at a bus stop or ignore a blind customer’s request for spoken information. RNIB has heard from many blind and partially sighted people who have good experiences on buses, and with drivers, but there are too many having bad experiences and having their independence limited which is putting them off using their local bus service.”

For more information visit www.rnib.org.uk/bus or call

will be a top-quality service.

Linking up Luton, Dunstable and Houghton Regis is already bringing significant economic benefits to the area. I’m sure Route 38 will prove to be very popular and using the busway will open up the jobs market to the conurbation.”

Cllr Dave Taylor of Luton Borough Council said: “These modern low-floor buses are efficient, comfortable, wellpresented internally and are equipped with Smart Card technology ticket machines.

“We are building the Busway to dramatically improve journey times across the conurbation. This investment by Arriva forms a vital part of the work going on with partners to substantially improve passenger experience and benefit the environment.”

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Stagecoach promotes sustainable travel to pupils Stagecoach East Scotland works in partnership with Dundee City Council and JMP to teach ‘green’ Stagecoach Strathtay, which is part of the Stagecoach East Scotland business, has teamed up with Dundee Travel Active to let pupils experience the benefits of active and sustainable travel through a packed programme of activity.

Pupils from three primary schools learnt why it’s good to walk, cycle and use the bus, helping them and their families to make more informed travel decisions as well as learning more about how to travel independently on buses.

Dundee Travel Active is the city’s programme to improve health through travel choices.

The project aims to help families save money on travel costs, encourage young people to become more independent travellers and improve the environment in the city.

The schools programme was delivered by JMP Consultants, on behalf of Dundee City Council. JMP’s Caley McDowall said: “This is the second year we’ve worked with these three schools to promote less polluting travel options for pupils and their families and we’re pleased with the fantastic response received once again to our programme. We

Double success with Open Days

A combination of the annual Open House weekend and a garage centenary provided an opportunity for open days at Stagecoach London’s West Ham and Leyton Garages. West Ham, London’s largest and ‘greenest’ garage, took part in its second Open House event, while Leyton celebrated its centenary year. Appropriately the two garages clearly demonstrated the theme of the Open House weekend, ‘The Changing Face of London’.

Over 200 visitors were taken on www.coachandbusweek.com

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particularly welcome the support from Stagecoach Strathtay to promote the benefits of public transport to the next generation of Dundee’s bus users.”

Prior to the sessions, pupils from the upper classes were invited to take part in an artwork competition, whereby a winning design from each school would be displayed on the Stagecoach Strathtay’s route 57 vehicles.

The artwork is displayed on three of the six vehicles operating on the route between Perth and Dundee, via Blairgowrie.

Sarah Longair, Operations

Director for Stagecoach East Scotland, said: “It was great to be involved in the school sessions and to extend the project by offering the artwork competition. The designs we received were fantastic, it was very difficult to pick our winners, but we felt each of the winning designs communicated a message about public transport which was fitting with the workshops just completed.

“We hope Hannah, Hasanein, Kelly-Ann and Vicky are proud of their artwork and the whole of each school will look out for them on the roads.”

Lord Provost Bob Duncan, Jonny Milligan of Dundee Travel Active, Sarah Longair, Operations Director, Stagecoach East Scotland and Sarah Elliott, Marketing Manager, Stagecoach East Scotland with the competition winners pre-booked tours of West Ham’s seven-acre site, with options to include a presentation from the architects who designed the building, or a detailed insight into the operation of the iBus service control system. An impressive lineup of current Stagecoach London buses was presented in the large parking area.

An estimated 1,500 people joined the celebrations at Leyton Garage, which took a more traditional form with a display of buses old and new, including several with the fleet number 1, such as RM 1 from the LT Museum, M 1 from Ensignbus, and the New Bus for London, LT 1 from Arriva. There were also several sales stands and a display of buses showing the processes involved in repainting buses, an activity which

takes place at the garage.

A popular feature was an open top bus route linking the two garages, and included a drivethrough tour of West Ham giving passengers a chance to see the fuelling and washing facility, the workshop area and an inspection of the Stagecoach London vehicle line-up. The open toppers were supplied by Stagecoach South, First London, and Ensignbus, who made a significant and much appreciated contribution to the day.

“The nice weather on the day played its part in making the day a great success. Very positive feedback has been received from a number of visitors to both locations and, in particular, the contribution of the volunteer staff was clearly appreciated,” Stagecoach said.

The new-look Optare Versa used on the Metroshuttle service

Oldham Metroshuttle upgrades Oldham’s free Metroshuttle, which is operated by Manchester Community Transport on behalf of Transport for Greater Manchester’s (TfGM) and Oldham Council, has benefitted from a package of improvements. The service was launched after the opening of the temporary Metrolink stop at Oldham Mumps.

The new bus, introduced on Monday (October 1), is one of TfGM’s Optare Versa hybrids, similar to the ones already in use in Manchester city centre.

The number of journey has increased from two per hour to three, departing from Oldham Mumps every 20 minutes between 0940 and 1630hrs, seven days a week.

In addition, new waiting shelters for passengers will be installed at the Victoria Street stop, serving Oldham Mumps Metrolink, during the coming weeks.

Councillor Mark Aldred, Chairman of TfGM’s Bus Network sub-committee, said: “Metroshuttle provides a convenient link between the Oldham Mumps Metrolink stop, the town centre and Oldham bus station, helping people to connect between different modes of transport as well as making it easier for them to get around the town.”

Councillor Shoab Akhtar, Oldham Council’s Cabinet Member for the Town Centre, said: “This service has proved popular since its introduction. It helps Metrolink passengers get to a range of locations in and around Oldham town centre and to visit our businesses and services more easily.

“The Metroshuttle service remains free of charge and the new livery should make it an even more familiar sight around Oldham in the run-up to the busy Christmas shopping period.”

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VDL Bus & Coach wins 275-bus Arriva order Order follows 77 Citeas for Arriva Sweden last April to highlight the established relationship between the operator and VDL NETHERLANDS Arriva Nederland has signed a contract with VDL Bus & Coach for 275 buses. They are for operations in the Dutch concessions in North and Southwest Friesland, Schiermonnikoog and South Holland North.

The order consists of 244 Citea LLEs, one Citea XLE and 30 Ambassador ALE 106s. Arriva Nederland begins running the services from December 9, 2012.

Willem van der Leegte, Managing Director VDL Bus & Coach , said: “We are particularly proud to be able to deliver so many buses to Arriva Nederland. An incidental yet very positive side note is that many of these buses which are destined for Friesland will also be built within the province, specifically in Heerenveen. This order is therefore also an enormous boost for regional employment.

“VDL Bus & Coach has enjoyed a long established relationship with Arriva which, over the past year, has been confirmed numerous times.

A couple of examples are the order

Tata Motors enters Indonesia

INDONESIA Mumbai-based Tata Motors has entered the Indonesian market with the creation of a wholly owned Jakarta-based subsidiary, PT Tata Motors Indonesia. The manufacturer is planning a foray into both passenger and commercial vehicles.

Vehicle sales in Indonesia, second only to Thailand in the ASEAN region, reached almost 0.64 million for January to July 2012 (AAF data). Tata’s range will include Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) vehicles, in response to a growing market for alternative fuel vehicles in Indonesia.

Tata described Indonesia as a www.coachandbusweek.com

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from Arriva Sweden for 77 Citeas last April and, in collaboration with Arriva Netherlands, a conversion order for 85 articulated buses being carried out for Arriva by VDL in Sneek.

“Arriva and VDL demonstrate the strengths of large international companies seen in successful regional collaboration.”

The Citeas for Arriva are 12m

long and are powered by Euro 5 engines with EEV (Enhanced Environmentally-friendly Vehicle) technology and have seating for 42, with space for around 40 standing passengers. All the buses feature an advanced climate control system and extra exit door lighting to fully illuminate the area around the exit.

All buses for the South Holland region will feature WiFi. In addition,

a number of buses for South Holland and Friesland will have a special bicycle provision making it possible for the passenger to take along a bicycle during the bus portion of their journey.

The service contract is also part of the agreement between VDL and Arriva. VDL Bus & Coach will handle all maintenance and repairs for the buses throughout the duration of the concession.

Mr van der Leegte, concluded: “VDL is delighted Arriva has chosen us as its partner to provide this extra service. We see this as an important step in the expansion of our activities in the field of public transport.”

The new vehicles seat 42 passengers, with the capacity to carry a further 40 standing key market with a wide range of products from small cars to buses and from 0.5T mini-trucks to 49T heavy trucks in commercial vehicles.

The company will begin to launch its products in 2013. By then, PT Tata Motors Indonesia will have about 10 to 15 dealers nationwide, offering sales, service and spare parts. Over a period of three years, the firm plans to create a country-wide network of about 60 full-service dealers, 100 other workshops and 300 more spare parts retailers. The firm is plannning to establish a manufacturing base in Indonesia to serve the country and the ASEAN region.

Tata Motors also participated in the 20th Indonesia International Motor Show. It displayed 14 Tata PCV and HGVs being considered for introduction in Indonesia.

Palfinger acquires bus lift manufacturer BRAZIL Palfinger has acquired bus lift manufacturer Tercek in Brazil.

Increasing its Brazilian presence beyond cranes, the company cited the upcoming demand on bus transport expected by the FIFA 2014 and Olympics 2016 games as the main driver.

Palfinger, which makes passenger lifts in the UK, said it will use the acquisition to make more accessibility products, as well as funding expansion in the market. It plans on relocating Tercek’s Caxias do Sul bus lift production facility to its own site at Caxias do Sul. Tercek is a small enterprise, developing Líbero-brand bus lifts and producing metal components.

The Brazilian government provides

funding for engineering innovation at Tercek though its Studies and Projects Finance Organization (FINEP).

Herbert Ortner, CEO of Palfinger, said: “For Palfinger, South America is a growth market in which we want to strengthen our presence with products beyond loader cranes.

“Líbero is a first-rate product for a growing market segment, and it conforms to regional requirements.

“In Great Britain we are already in the market with passenger lifts and we are developing regional products in the rest of Europe as well.

“The takeover of Tercek is a small but valuable step for our growth in South America.”

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SCOTLAND

Lothian Buses has launched the Edinburgh By Bus app, designed to allow users to identify nearby bus stops, highlight best available routes and view live departure dates for the 55 Lothian Buses routes, NIGHTBUSES and AIRLINK across Edinburgh.

Created by Lothian Buses’ digital team, users can simply register a current location and desired departure or arrival time.

Tourists can use the free audio walking tours and gain information about Edinburgh Bus Tours’ individual tours, including ticket prices and a detailed map of routes and bus stops. Visitors can also learn about city attractions and how to travel to them by bus. Users can leave reviews of the tours on TripAdvisor through the app.

Ian Craig, MD of Lothian Buses, said: “We’re delighted to launch this free app which will offer people an even better travel experience across Lothian Buses, NIGHTBUSES, AIRLINK and Edinburgh Bus Tours.

“This app is the culmination of a lot of hard work from our teams across a range of Lothian Buses’ services and we’ve added in a lot of fun extras including free audio walking tours, tourist information and, of course, TripAdvisor reviews.”

Manuela Calchini, Regional Director for VisitScotland, said: “All initiatives that help to improve the experience of visitors to Edinburgh are welcomed. Lothian Buses’ new app offers a superb array of services which are sure to be of use to locals and visitors alike.”

The free app is available for iPhones, iPad and Android from the App Store and Google Play.

For more information visit www. lothianbuses.com/apps. The app is downloadable from http://www. apple.com/uk/iphone/from-theapp-store/ or https://play.google. com/store .

MIDLANDS

Nottingham City Transport (NCT), trent barton and Tramlink have teamed up to provide cheaper airport travel.

Anyone using the city’s tram network or an NCT bus to connect with the skylink Nottingham service can buy a special return ticket to the airport for £5. skylink runs every 30 minutes, 24 hours a day. To qualify for the discounted ticket customers need to show their tram/NCT ticket when they get on the bus. www.coachandbusweek.com

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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’d like us to cover, contact James Day on james. day@coachandbusweek.com.

KEY

SCOTLAND NORTHERN IRELAND REP OF IRELAND NORTH WALES MIDLANDS EAST LONDON SOUTH EAST SOUTH WEST

Alex Hornby, Commercial Director, said: “This represents another great example of operators working together to make travel by bus and tram an ever more attractive alternative to the car.

“We’re delighted to offer more savings for those who need to use more than one service to get to the airport.”

Anthony Carver-Smith, NCT Marketing Manager, said: “This is a fantastic offer and shows real joined-up thinking between local transport firms who want to make life easier for customers.”

Phil Hewitt, Chief Executive of NET’s concession company, Tramlink Nottingham, added: “We hope this latest initiative will encourage more people to leave their car at home and discover the comfort and convenience of travelling by bus and tram.”

National Express West Midlands has launched its new ‘Bab on Board’ badges for Brummy mummies to be. The badge has been welcomed by the Royal College of Midwives as a way to help mums-to-be have a more comfortable journey.

The badges are free and can be collected from the region’s travel shops. They are also available in the version, ‘Baby on Board’ for anyone who doesn’t speak the dialect.

The badges help pregnant women enjoy more comfortable bus journeys. Drivers can now quickly recognise customers who

need a little more time to sit down.

Madi Pilgrim, HR Director of NXWM, said: “I hope lots of women will pick up – and wear – our free Bab on Board badges. We want to make it easier and more comfortable for mums-to-be in the West Midlands to travel on our buses. These badges will ensure our drivers, and other passengers, can recognise customers who need additional support.”

Louise Silverton, Deputy General Secretary of the Royal College of Midwives, said: “Pregnancy can be very tiring for women in situations such as those they encounter on buses when they may have to stand for long periods of time. This is a welcome initiative that has our wholehearted support and we are delighted to see the needs of pregnant women recognised in this way.”

SOUTH EAST

The price of single tickets along the busy Northumberland Avenue and Basingstoke Road routes in Reading are being cut from £1.80 to £1.40 in a bid to boost passenger numbers.

The trial, which will run until the end of December, is being funded by Reading Borough Council.

James Freeman from Reading Buses said: “The thinking is that changing the prices in those areas will have a big impact on people’s ability to travel and therefore we should see some very considerable increases in demand.”

Arriva Southern Counties has made some changes to its Medway bus routes, including the re-introduction of evening services between Chatham and Borstal and between Chatham and Maidstone.

Services 113 and 114 which link Chatham, Luton, Hempstead, Wigmore, Rainham and Gillingham, have also benn revised.

The evening buses have been brought back following requests from local residents and are funded

by Kent County Council (KCC) and the parish councils for a six-month trial period.

An evening service was previously provided with funding from KCC but it was withdrawn due to lack of patronage.

Arriva said the continuation of the new journeys after the trial period will depend on the services being used sufficiently.

The changes to services 113 and 114 include new times and a new route, with buses running between Chatham, Luton, Hempstead, Parkwood and Wigmore in both directions, rather than following the current circular routes which include Rainham and Gillingham.

The new-look services, known as the Capstone Flyer, will give a halfhourly link from the Wigmore area to Chatham on weekdays, taking the quick route into Chatham via Capstone Road and Luton.

Arriva’s Regional Publicity Manager Richard Lewis said: “We are pleased to be able to give an improved service to the Wigmore and Hempstead area and hope our customers will find the quicker and more frequent journey into Chatham to be of benefit. The Hemsptead Valley and Rainham areas continue to be served by our frequent Medway Mainlines service 132.

“The new evening buses through Borstal, Wouldham, Burham, Eccles and Aylesford have been reintroduced following requests from local residents and we are pleased to be running them on behalf of KCC and the local parishes.

“We would encourage local people in those villages to take the bus into Maidstone, Rochester or Chatham for their evenings out in order to ensure that the evening buses can continue in the future.”

LONDON

First London’s route U4 was extended to serve the ProLogis Park on Saturday (September 29), providing

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transport links to the business development for the first time.

The route extension provides links for local residents and the growing workforce on the Business Park, as well as access to nearby Hayes and Harlington Station, Hayes Town Station, Hillingdon Hospital and Uxbridge.

The extension has also enabled Nine Acres Close and a section of Bourne Road to be served by a bus service for the first time.

In addition, the Sunday daytime frequencies are increased from every 20 minutes to every 15 minutes.

Monday to Saturday frequencies remain unchanged, running every eight minutes during the day and every 20 minutes on all evenings.

SOUTH WEST

Municipally-operated Thamesdown Transport has offered free off-peak bus travel to members of the Senior Group of the Nepalese Association of Wiltshire.

Thamesdown Transport MD Paul Jenkins attended the weekly Nepalese Association of Wiltshire meeting at Broadgreen Community

FirstGroup UK staff have voted Macmillan Cancer Support to be the company’s new national charity partner. First has donated advertising space on its buses to Macmillan worth nearly £85k. More than 3,500 buses now feature Macmillan adverts promoting its flagship fundraising event, the World’s Biggest Coffee Morning. Macmillan will replace Save the Children as FirstGroup’s national charity partner. FirstGroup has confirmed its support of Save the Children will continue but as its secondary partner. First have raised more than £4.5m in cash and in kind for Save the Children since 2007.

FirstGroup is encouraging colleagues to make time to support Macmillan’s 22nd ‘World’s Biggest Coffee Morning.’ Many of FirstGroup’s bus and rail companies hosted coffee mornings on September 28, with some involving customers. FirstGroup’s CSR and Community Manager Katie Smart said: “This is a new chapter in our community engagement strategy and I’m delighted to be working with Macmillan Cancer Support. It was the clear winner in our staff vote - that enthusiasm and passion

Centre on Wednesday, September 19 to present 31 members with their passes.

While many members of the Senior Group receive free concessionary passes for bus travel, a number are not eligible. This means travel costs can be an issue as families rely on only one British Army pension awarded as a result of Gurkha military service, which is set according to the cost of living in Nepal.

The Senior Group of the Nepalese Association of Wiltshire approached Thamesdown Transport after Reading Buses ran a similar scheme, offering free local bus travel for Gurkha veterans.

Paul Jenkins said: “We employ a number of ex-Gurkhas as drivers and so we decided to show our support for the Nepalese community in Swindon by providing free off-peak and weekend travel on Thamesdown buses for the wives of Senior Members and for the Senior Members who do not qualify for a concessionary bus pass. We hope this will help them get to know the town better by using the bus network.”

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

The Midland Red Centenary of the Reintroduction of Motorbuses takes place on October 14 at Wythall’s Transport Museum, near Birmingham

2012 n October 4 CPT London & SE Workshop. Marks Tey Best Western Hotel, Colchester. Contact Tiley, Regional Manager on 020 7240 3131 or email karent@cpt-uk.org. n October 7 Warminster Vintage Bus Running Day. West Wiltshire.

At least 16 routes and 25 buses in service, sponsored by the Go-Ahead Group. www.warminstervbrd.

n November 20 UK Bus Awards London Hilton Park Lane. www.ukbusawards.org.uk n November 20-21 ATCO Winter Conference 2012. Local Government Association House, London, SW1. Will include AGM. www.atco.org.uk

connectfree.co.uk

2013

n October 14 Midland Red Centenary of the Reintroduction of Motorbuses. The Transport Museum, Wythall, near Birmingham. www.wythall.org.uk

n January 1 New Year’s Holiday Open Day. Oxford Bus Museum. 01993 883617. www. oxfordbusmuseum.org.uk

n October 18 CILT Annual Awards for Excellence Dinner. London.

01536 740104. www.ciltuk.org.ukk n October 20-21 Heritage Bus Service Weekend. Museum of Transport Greater Manchester, Boyle Street, Cheetham. Featuring MetroCammell and Weymann bodied buses, 10-1700hrs. 0161 205 2122.

www.gmts.co.uk

n October 21 The Very Best of London Buses. Brooklands, Surrey.

Featuring 50 years of Routemaster buses. London Bus Museum. www.londonbusmuseum.com

is already being reflected in our fundraising efforts across the UK.” Sally Hill, Fundraising Partnership Manager from Macmillan Cancer Support, said: “To have the support of one of the world’s largest transport companies is tremendous news for Macmillan.

With the number of people living with cancer expected to double to four million by 2030, it’s more important than ever to engage with companies like FirstGroup.”

Regional Manager Phillipa Sudlow on phillipas@cpt-uk.org.

n January 1 Annual King Alfred Running Day, Winchester. Further information from www.fokab.org.uk n March 13-14 Best of Britain and Ireland (BoBi). Travel Trade Forum at the NEC in Birmingham. 01926 834796. www. bestofbritainandirelandevent.co.uk n March 20-21 UK Bus Awards Annual Conference. Sir Brian Souter has accepted our invitation to speak at the conference dinner. Venue to be confirmed, but will be in Central London. www.ukbusawards.org.uk

n October 23 CPT Coaching Conference. Volvo HQ, Warwick.

Further details will be published in due course. Call CPT on 020 7240 3131. www.cpt-uk.org

n April 6 South East Bus Festival 2013. Kent Showground, near Maidstone, Kent, brought to you by the organisers of ‘M&D 100’ and ‘M&D and EK 60’ www.facebook. com/southeastbusfestival

n October 24-25 Trapeze UK User Conference 2012. Radisson Hotel, Manchester Airport. 08445 616771. www.trapezegroup.co.uk

n May 26-30 UITP Congress & Exhibition. Palexpo, Geneva. www.uitp.org. +(00)32 2673 610

n November 6-8 Euro Bus Expo.

NEC, Birmingham. 01926 834790. www.eurobusxpo.com

n July 21 Alton Bus Rally. Anstey Park, Anstey Lane, Alton, Hants. www.altonbusrally.org.uk

n November 15 CPT Northern Bus Summit. Manchester Conference Centre. Details from contact CPT NW

Send your event details to gareth.evans@ coachandbusweek.com

www.coachandbusweek.com

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C O M PANY F O R SALE Price £22,000 (incl. a £6,000 deposit) + HP on 16 seat luxury VW Crafter minicoach with leather seats, A/C, video, microphone and large boot, 105K miles, at £190 per week (28 months left).

Sets of re-trimmed Plaxton Paragon, Panther, Premier coach seats available Esteban 3 point belts available Various other seats available

The price includes two websites (www.london-airport-taxicoach-hire.com & www.slickrideslondon.com) an Operator’s Licence to run one vehicle and a PCO licence to run two vehicles.

Last 12 months turnover £100,000 Also available, an 8 seater minibus I800 Hyundai at £9,000.

If needed the Transport Manager can work on a part time basis.

The above price doesn't include money owned to the Company (outstanding invoices still to be paid).

07823 770 978

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PRODUCTS

Text to speech revolution A low-cost text to speech system designed for passenger information systems has huge potential for nextstop and travel information in over 20 languages.

For the first time, multilingual announcements in human quality voices can be generated from digital signals feeding existing transport infrastructure. TextSpeak has released its TTS-EM-HD2, which is claimed to be the smallest and most sophisticated voice synthesis paging and announcement product of its kind. The standalone package requires only one digital input signal and a speaker connection to produce spoken audio. The conversion of informational data to a clear, natural sounding voice is completely automatic.

Dynamic and real-time passenger information, alerts and security warnings can be spoken from message queues, streaming data or directly from typed text, locally or from distant distribution points.

The TextSpeak integrated audio amplifiers deliver the synthesised sound to paging systems, radio and video channels, or directly to a single speaker.

Unattended bus stops and rail platforms which are silent can be

upgraded to support arrival/departure announcements at extremely low costs. Safety is also enhanced when used to supplement existing public address systems. Mass notification and emergency messages can be sent and broadcast from information at remote command centres. In addition, passengers with impaired vision can be accommodated with audio announcements.

Designed from the ground up to support transportation, the TTS-EM scales to meet the most demanding specifications. n Speech can be created from existing sources, such as RS-232 feeds to scrolling LED digital

signage, modem data and Ethernet broadcasts. n Informational alerts can be pre-programmed and started with the push of a button or launched remotely by automated systems. n Moving vehicles can offer dynamic announcement information

The TextSpeak system can support announcements at bus stops

New starter/ charger range from SIP Eight new Starter Chargers and two new Battery Chargers have been added to the range of automotive equipment from SIP Industrial Products Ltd, the welding, compressor and automotive equipment specialists.

Loughborough-based SIP has been manufacturing and supplying quality industrial equipment to the UK and export markets for over 44 years and has expanded from a core of welding equipment and compressors to include a comprehensive range of specialist automotive equipment and hydraulics.

The new Battery Chargers are the Chargestar P24 and the Chargestar P32. Both chargers run from a 230v (13 amp) supply and have dual voltage (12v/24v) charging.

The Chargestar P32 has a 16 amp maximum charging current with 110Ah

Email martin.cole@coachandbus week.com to get your new product or service in the spotlight

SIP’s new charger range includes the Chargestar P24 and P32 battery capacity and both machines are covered by a full 12-month warranty.

The new range of Starter Chargers opens with the Startmaster P300 – a powerful machine suitable for small to medium garages and workshops.

The Startmaster P300 runs from a 230v (13amp) supply and provides 150 amp maximum boost rate with

150Ah battery capacity – the machine has two charge rate levels. Top of new range of SIP Startmaster Starter Chargers is the Startmaster PWT1400, a hugely powerful, wheel-mounted starter charger that runs from a 230v (40amp) supply. It has 90 amp maximum charging current and a 700amp maximum boost rate. With six charge rate levels, a 120-minute timer and remote lead for one man operation.

Paul Ippaso, Director of SIP, said: “The professional automotive market is becoming increasingly important to SIP. It is a demanding market which insists on quality and reliability – and all at the right price. SIP works hard to meet these demands and all the products in our new range are Italian made to high specifications.”

Full technical specifications for all the new Battery Chargers and Starter Chargers are available on SIP’s web site at www. sip-group.com or email sales@sipgroup.com for details.

transmitted by radio, from stored data, or updated locally from a keyboard. n Multi-lingual announcements can be easily generated, with precise accents, to speak directly to international travellers. n Audio messaging can be queued for sequential delivery. Real time text can be supplemented with prerecorded messages, tones or even music. n Deployment is suited for parking, platforms, trams, buses, gates, rail, marine and roadway systems.

“The speech quality we digitally synthesise is nearly indistinguishable from a spoken human voice,” said Nancy Wolfe, President of TextSpeak.

“We have removed the requirement of a PC interface and created flexible deployment models with a suite of world languages. This will enable air, sea, rail and land transit systems a means to modernise audio delivery at a low cost that leverages their existing wiring and infrastructure.”

TextSpeak speech systems are currently deployed with ITS in large mass transportation facilities, onboard buses and at transit platforms worldwide. TTS-EM-HD2 versions are priced below $300 in moderate quantities and single unit evaluation packages are available online.

For full details visit: www.textspeak.com

No More Gloves No More Gloves, from Elichem Resins, is an alternative to gloves, industrial hand cleaners, anti-bacterial creams and moisturisers.

The product is applied to the hands and gives users 99% protection.

For those working in environments such as bus garages, gloves can often reduce dexterity. No More Gloves forms an invisible membrane on the skin allowing users to perform intricate work which may be difficult in gloves.

It provides protection for up to five hours from resins, adhesives, oils, grease, paint, lubricants, petrol, diesel, general dirt and grime.

It is also easy to wash off, just rinse hands under running water and the dirt simply runs away.

No COSHHE certificate is required.

For more information email sales@elichem.co.uk or ring 01483 26 66 36 or 37.

www.coachandbusweek.com

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Voith claims its DIWA.6 transmission can save 5% on fuel consumption, compared to its predecessor model

IAA Part 2: buses, tachos & gearboxes In the second of his two-part report on Europe’s largest commercial vehicle trade show in Hanover, Germany, Martin Cole writes about a range of suppliers – from transmissions to tachographs www.coachandbusweek.com

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Eaton Eaton Corporation displayed its latest clutch technology specifically designed for severe-duty applications.

The patented, cushioned ceramic clutch discs for manual transmissions utilise a ceramic facing instead of traditional organic materials, making them more heat- and wear-resistant than conventional clutches. Shifting gears in commercial vehicles which are fully loaded or operating on steep hills or in other demanding driving conditions can generate extremely high temperatures in the coupling housing. Eaton’s cushioned-ceramic design for clutch discs enhances friction coefficient, particularly at high temperatures.

Eaton claims this helps enable easier shifting and allows drivers to keep better control of their vehicles.

Eaton refers to its ceramic material

design as Severe Duty (SD) as it is ideally suited for severe applications. The SD-design meets the specific needs of commercial vehicles with frequent stop-and-go driving cycles under high loads.

SD clutches also have increased durability, which can reduce a fleet owner’s lifecycle costs vs. costs for organic facings. Eaton offers its SD-technology for large clutch discs with 395- and 430-millimeter diameters as well for other European and American designs.

“It is critical for Eaton to support vehicle manufacturers with the technologies they most need.

Our SD-design improves the safety of commercial vehicles and simultaneously reduces operating costs for fleets and owneroperators. We therefore see a great growth potential worldwide for this technology,” explained John F. Beering, Vice President and General

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Manager Global Vehicle Group Aftermarket & Clutch Business.

Stoneridge Tachograph specialist Stoneridge presented its new One Minute Rule digital tachograph, the SE5000 Exakt Duo. The Duo technology comes as standard in the new model and at no extra cost, giving drivers real-time updates, including drive and rest time countdowns, as well as useful warnings when nearing the driving limits, helping them to keep legal.

Stoneridge recently launched two free tachograph apps for Android smartphones (which require the purchase of Stoneridge’s Bluetooth dongle) Tacho Link called ‘Duo Mobile’ and ‘Tacho Center.’

Duo Mobile brings the benefits of the Duo technology such as realtime overviews and countdowns visibly to smartphones, giving drivers a second Duo display.

Tacho Center enables the wireless download of digital tachograph data from any EU Type Approved digital tachograph.

Visitors were able to experience Stoneridge’s OPTAC3 tachograph analysis software which is a key part of the company’s business and is extensively used by enforcement agencies throughout Europe. OPTAC3 is claimed to be cost-effective, flexible and straight forward - suitable for both analogue and digital tachographs.

As a key supplier to many vehicle OEMs, Stoneridge also displayed a range of instrument clusters designed to offer userfriendly, modern design and high quality. Other products included sensors, actuators and valves as well as electronic control units and telematics systems.

Voith ‘Efficiency on the road’ was transmission specialist Voith’s message to operators which it presented along with its latest products for bus, coach and truck.

With operators more clearly focused on higher efficiency, reduced emissions and lower operating costs, Voith highlighted its new ElvoDrive technology concept and Aquatarder SWR – claimed to be the world’s first secondary water retarder.

Voith’s ElvoDrive for serial hybrid drive systems transmits the required power as 100% electrical energy allowing the engine to be operated within its lowest specific

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fuel consumption range. The system is designed to accommodate future design stages allowing purely electric drives, range extender or plug-in concepts.

Savings potential also lies in the new DIWA.6 automatic transmission in combination with the topography-dependent SensoTop gear-shifting program and the DIWA SmartNet telemetrics. DIWA.6 is claimed to save around 5% of fuel compared to its predecessor model which are achieved by controlling the operating pressure in the transmission. It can be lowered to up to five bar, saving nearly 3% of diesel. This is added by an intelligent start-up management plus the SensoTop gear-shifting program combined with a new torsional vibration damper. The programme allows gear-shifting at lower speeds – aiding reduced fuel consumption.

The SmartNet telemetric system is designed to minimize downtime.

The bus sends its operating data to a server via GPRS and in the event of a transmission fault, the operator is informed and can react instantly before the bus breaks down. Preventive maintenance generally reduces downtime and cuts expensive repair bills.

New this year, the LP 725 three-cylinder compressor with an aluminum lightweight construction.

Available from 2013, the LP 725 is designed for the new generation of Euro 6 engines. It offers signficantly higher displacement than singlestage compressors through higher

specific displacement volumes.

It consumes less energy and reaches end pressure at lower compression temperatures thanks to intermediate cooling.

Aquatarder SWR secondary water retarder, has a greatly increased application spectrum. Initial installations are to be on new Mercedes-Benz Antos distribution trucks. The water retarder is operated by engine coolant and claimed to be maintenance-free which, compared with oil retarders, can save between six and 12 litres of oil per vehicle annually – which also eliminates waste oil disposal charges and servicing in the workshop. Its compact design requires 50% less installation space and is 35kg lighter than a comparable oil retarder.

Federal Mogul Federal-Mogul Corporation presented new technologies designed to enhance the efficiency, emissions and fuel consumption of commercial vehicles. The key elements were: n EcoTough Diesel piston skirt coating for improved fuel consumption; n IROX Bronze bearings for improved wear resistance; n New valve seat materials and valve guide lubrication for longer life and reduced maintenance; n Champion CNG Transit Class Spark Plugs for improved efficiency in the alternative fuel sector; and n Thermflex exhaust insulating sleeves for improved emissions performance.

Operated by engine coolant, Voith’s Aquatarder offers 35kg weight saving

“Efficiency enhancement is Federal-Mogul’s strategy for technological leadership,” said its CEO, OE Division, Rainer Jueckstock.

“These innovations are targeted at reducing consumption of fuel and oil, extending maintenance intervals and minimising emissions to help meet future regulations and environmental targets.”

Low-friction EcoTough diesel piston skirt coating is suited for both light and commercial vehicle applications and based on the award-winning EcoTough Gasoline piston coating. It has been specially formulated to also meet the demands of heavy-duty and highly charged diesel engines. The solid lubricant coating increases the piston skirt’s wear resistance, allowing powertrain engineers to increase the clearance between the skirt and liner, reducing friction and therefore fuel consumption.

Currently undergoing development with two leading engine manufacturers, the EcoTough Diesel piston skirt coating is expected to enter production in 2013.

Federal-Mogul recently introduced its Dual-Gallery Monosteel Piston featuring a second oil-cooled gallery under the piston bowl to reduce bowl temperatures and improve emissions and durability on increasingly highly loaded heavy-duty engines. A patented oil passage design provides up to a 200% increase in oil supply to the undercrown gallery, while a centre oil outlet provides efficient conrod and pin lubrication.

New piston ring technologies were also introduced. Designed to enhance engine efficiency, reliability and durability, the GDC (Goetze Diamond-Coated)-nitrided keystone ring technology provides up to 50% higher durability compared to standard PVD (physical vapour deposition) steel rings for high-EGR engines. The world’s first cast steel compression rings by Federal Mogul combine design advantages of cast materials with steel performance to meet increasing engine efficiency demands. A new generation Multilayer PVD top compression ring with unique 70nm scaled layering claims to substantially outperform standard Monolayer PVD coatings in robustness and scuffing resistance. Recently introduced PACE award-winning LKZ oil rings were also shown.

These may now be optionally coated with a low-friction DLC www.coachandbusweek.com

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show review › iaa2012 PART TWO (Diamond-Like Carbon) coating CarboGlide - said to additionally reduce ring friction by up to 20%.

Federal-Mogul’s IROX polymer bearing technology has been applied to a new generation of bronze bearing shells for heavyduty diesel engines. They combine the exceptional wear resistance of a polymer overlay with high load capacity of bronze substrates and are capable of handling specific loads up to 80MPa in highly boosted engines and provide extended durability. These bearings claim to provide higher protection against the increased demands of start-stop operation in vehicles such as citybuses, delivery vans or refuse trucks.

An innovative hybrid steelelastomer cylinder head gasket is said to incorporate a 250-bar combustion seal. Federal-Mogul claims this optimised technology provides a more homogeneous contact pressure around the combustion opening compared to either wire ring or embossed metal plate combustion seals.

Additionally, because the combustion sealing element is produced from spring steel, there is up to a 300% improvement in load recovery as well as improved fatigue resistance. These capabilities result in increased sealing reliability of the engine block and cylinder head joint under higher firing pressures conditions.

New PMF-10E is a selflubricating valve guide material to meet the challenges of excessive and accelerated wear increasingly encountered on high specific power engines. The material allows valve trains to operate at higher temperatures – between 100°C (212°F) and 200°C (392°F) hotter than those using conventional lubrication – without increasing wear between the valve stem and guide. Federal-Mogul says this makes it easier for vehicle manufacturers to improve durability and emissions. The enhanced lubrication system has also been extended to other materials, allowing heavy-duty valve guides up to 100mm to achieve high tribological and lifetime requirements and ensure lubrication in all operating points on side-loaded and engine braking valves. New FM-S25A and FM-S33E valve seat materials were also on display. These are designed to allow heavy-duty engines to reduce sulphur corrosion in intake valve www.coachandbusweek.com

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regulations.

Federal-Mogul’s Carter EcoFlo Brushless Fuel Pump also made its debut. It is claimed to deliver up to a 500% increase in pump life in extreme environments when compared to brush-type fuel pumps. The brushless motor design is more efficient than brush-type fuel pumps, offering 30% higher pressure and flow capabilities. The incorporation of electric lift pumps provides consistent injection pump inlet pressure at start-up, improved performance at higher altitudes, and enhanced priming.

Above: Federal-Mogul Ecotough. Below: Federal-Mogul bronze bearing shells

seat inserts and minimise high temperature wear in exhaust valves and valve seat inserts.

Federal-Mogul’s new Champion CNG Transit Class Spark Plugs have been developed specifically for CV applications using CNG fuel. They feature a multi-layer fine wire iridium centre electrode combined with a ground electrode precious metal pad designed to create improved combustion efficiency, potential for improved fuel economy and emissions while providing an excellent cost-todurability ratio. The plugs feature an industrial fired-in suppressor seal (IFISS) for specifically developed for demanding industrial applications. High-temperature nickel plating gives improved corrosion protection for engines using alternative fuels.

Federal-Mogul’s Ferodo-branded FER5200 is a new CV brake pad friction material designed for use on trucks, coaches and trailers.

The pad is said to improve braking performance while maintaining excellent heat stability. The friction material’s other key qualities are its impressive NVH and comfort characteristics, along with improved wear and disc cracking behaviour which helps to reduce warranty claims and improve customer satisfaction. One major CV manufacturer has already equipped Ferodo’s FER5200 friction material to the front and rear axles of its latest truck.

Also shown was the company’s Thermflex exhaust insulating sleeves which trap heat within the exhaust system to allow for greater efficiency of the emissions control systems. The sleeves are designed to withstand temperatures up to 750°C and reduce the radiation of heat to nearby components.

Thermflex sleeves are a highlyengineered solution, designed to help vehicle manufacturers meet stringent and evolving emissions

Viseon In addition to a display of Viseon’s high-specification and eye-catching coach models including its double-deck coach, the company revealed details of its latest project for providing contactless electric mobility. Operating alongside Bombardier Transportation, Viseon is being supported by the Federal Ministry of Transport, Building and Urban Development.

The partners are testing new technologies in the area of catenaryfree power supply for electricallypowered buses. Bombardier has already developed a contactless system for trams, called PRIMOVE, which is under test. It is now being applied to electric buses. “With electric drive technology through the use of overhead lines, we have consistently implemented local emission-free operations for urban buses for many years now,” said Viseon´s Technical Director, Ernö Bartha. “With the new catenary-free technology and advanced energy storage systems, this will enable us to eliminate the need for unsightly overhead power lines in towns and cities as well as significantly increasing the flexibility of the electrically-operated public service bus system.” The first of these PRIMOVE vehicles was on display equipped with a contactless current pick-up on the underside of the specially engineered floor.

PRIMOVE makes use of inductive energy transfer where an electrical conductor generates a magnetic field which in turn generates an electric current in another conductor within the field.

The PRIMOVE system requires induction loops to be installed under the road surface, at bus stops or other opportunistic sites.

The loops carry high-frequency alternating current to create a magnetic field. A sensor

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No More Gloves is an innovative product that is an alternative to gloves, industrial hand cleaners, anti-bacterial creams and moisturisers.

This single product can replace many existing hand care and protection items.

Simply apply to hands, let it dry instantly, work as normal and rinse off with cold water.

No soap, no scrubbing.

The product forms an invisible membrane on the skin allowing intricate work that may be difficult in gloves.

Resistant to oils, grease, paint, lubricants, petrol, diesel, adhesives, resins, general dirt and grime.

PROTECT WORKING HANDS 01483 266636 sales@elichem.co.uk www.elichem.co.uk

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Courses on Network and Timetable Planning Bus and Crew Scheduling

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New Alphabet House Carden Street Worcester WR1 2AT Phone 01905-613527 Fax 01905-767509 e-mail courses@qv-associates.co.uk

G Gas & Smoke Emission Testing

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sales@commercialgarageequipment.co.uk www.commercialgarageequipment.co.uk

14A Goodwood Road, Keytec 7 Business Park, Pershore, Worcs WR10 7JL

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Above: Viseon has developed its PRIMOVE bus with Bombardier. Below: A close-up of the contactless pickup detects whether the vehicle is positioned directly above the loop, allowing system activation for the re-charging process. The collector drops down and induces a voltage to the power receiver installed under the vehicle. This charges the on-board battery storage or supplies power to the electric drive.

For the dynamically-generated power supply during the journey, the induction loops set into the road consist of numerous individual segments. The system activates only the segment over which it is located – therefore it has no effect on other road users.

Viseon Project Manager Christian Vana explained: “For a trolleybus, the electric power lines run from a bipolar network via the pantograph and inverters on the roof to the walls of the passenger compartment and along to the drive in the rear. As there are between 600 to 700 volts here which are directly connected to the grid, this requires a particularly complex insulation process over three levels. In a PRIMOVE bus, all the components are already electrically isolated from the mains due to the inductive principle of power consumption. As a result, a high level of safety has already been achieved in the bus through the system and only a simple form of insulation is required as in any www.coachandbusweek.com

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other autonomous electric vehicle, such as a battery bus.”

Bombardier and Viseon aim to test the technology through to 2013 in order to gather more experience and refine the system.

Allison Transmission Allison Transmission highlighted its latest 5th Generation electronic controls which have been designed to match the new generation of global vehicle electrical-electronic architectures and for easy integration during the vehicle assembly process. These are claimed to be both innovative and flexible, providing optimal shift strategies for class-leading productivity and efficiency, while still addressing varying OEM and operator requirements.

5th Generation controls are

being integrated into all Allison transmissions. Containing enhanced End-of-Line programming, higher speed CAN bus compatibility (up to 500 Kbps) and a brand new bump lever selector design, Allison engineers also focused on upgrading TCM hardware and software for faster, more precise processing capabilities.

Embedded in the 5th Generation control module is a new inclinometer, which enhances vehicle productivity and efficiency in stop-start operations. The inclinometer’s precision and responsiveness improve Load Based Shift Scheduling (LBSS) performance as the automatic selection between economy and performance shift schedules is faster and more accurate, resulting in further reductions in fuel

consumption.

This new generation of electronic controls provides two additional acceleration levels, enhancing Vehicle Acceleration Control (VAC) to allow for an even greater ability to improve fuel economy by controlling engine fueling and moderating aggressive driving practices.

“The combination of Allison Transmission’s ‘Continuous Power Technology’ and the latest 5th Generation electronic controls is the best way to provide our customers with improved vehicle performance, fleet productivity and efficiency, while augmenting fuel utilisation,” said Steve Spurlin, Executive Director of Application Engineering and Vehicle Integration.

Xiamen Golden Dragon Show newcomer Xiamen Golden Dragon revealed its new XML 6125CL lowfloor citybus, built with WVTA compliance for European markets plus its new Explorer XML 6125J coach.

The bus has integral construction and measures 12m long and 2.55m wide. It employs a European-style driveline with an EEV six cylinder Cummins ISBe engine, ZF Ecomat automatic gearbox with Intarder and ZF AV132 portal rear axle, ZF front axle and power steering system. With double entrance

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show review › iaa2012 PART TWO doors at the front, centre and rear it has a seating capacity of 37 and can accommodate up to 47 standees – allowing for one wheelchair.

The 12m coach model is also an integral design which for European markets is equipped with Meritor front and rear axles, disc brakes, ZF power steering and a Cummins engine with ZF manual or automatic gearbox options plus a Voith retarder. Power ratings are listed as being from 320bhp – 420bhp using the ISME engine.

The entire vehicle undergoes a catephoric anti-corrosion process prior to painting and guarantees at least 10 years protection.

Luggage locker space is generous at over 10 cubic metres and its maximum seating capacity is 53. Air conditioning is standard fitment.

Xiamen Golden Dragon also claims extensive experience with hybrid vehicle production and offers buses equipped with hybrid systems designed for specific operations. For generally flat terrain with minimal congestion the company markets vehicles equipped with an electric drive motor plus supercapacitors for energy storage. For more demanding terrain and dense urban traffic it switches to drive motor and supercapacitors plus lithium ion batteries. For what Golden Dragon describes as ‘poor’ road conditions it offers pure supercapacitors plus lithium ion batteries plus AMT transmission.

The company said it has over 1,200 in service in major cities in China and its systems have achieved upwards of 40% savings on fuel and over 60% reduction in emissions.

Temsa Turkish manufacturer Temsa was keen to highlight its much strengthened market position with its turnover having increased by 21% and production facilities at Adana running to full capacity.

Its key markets in France and Germany sustained sales and it is experiencing rapid growth in the USA. Home market sales in Turkey have also increased.

Temsa CEO Tamer Unlu said: “At Temsa we believe challenges, like coins, have two sides; so we tend to see these challenges as opportunities. We’ve been using this difficult economic time constructively to boost value to customers - who are at the centre of all of our activities.”

Last year, Temsa introduced www.coachandbusweek.com

IAApart2.indd 28

An interior view of Chinese manufacturer Golden Dragon’s XML6125CL bus a new quality control system including quality gates at key stages in the production process. This year these measures have proved highly effective with the company reporting a 27% increase in “zero defect delivery” compared to 2011, as it strives to bring defects to zero.

Quality improvements are due to the introduction of a modular approach to building the vehicles, ensuring easy, fast and economical maintenance and greater compatibility between different models.

Last year Temsa secured orders in Scandinavia and Eastern Europe expanding its presence in over 40 different countries. It’s Avenue citybus is selling in large numbers and following the success of the MD9 in gaining a ‘Midicoach of the Year’ award, it has generated much interest in the model with sales up 30% each year.

A new MD 9 is in development which will provide accessibility for disabled passengers, equipped

Temsa’s MD9 midicoach

with wheelchair lift and another specifically aimed at the US and renamed the TS 30 is also in its early stages. An inter-urban bus version with standee capacity already exists as does a low-entry version. Much co-operation is also ongoing with engine producers to adapt all the Temsa range to Euro 6.

Following the success of MD 9, Temsa confirmed it is working on a new range of buses. Currently, it is exploring six new concepts which will build on the success of the modular approach. “We hope to present the new vehicle next year but the final decision related to the launch date will be taken once we feel it is ready to meet our customers’ needs. This way we can be sure to repeat the success of MD 9 Range.” said Mr. Ünlü.

He added: “We want to be one of the key players on the European market known for outstanding quality and competitive vehicles bringing value and satisfaction to our customers.”

Cummins Turbo Technologies Cummins Turbo Technologies revealed a suite of near-market and future technology designed to improve the fuel efficiency of modern diesel engines by at least 6%.

The company said it had shifted focus - from emissions driven innovation towards prioritising fuel economy as it claims the industry has now reached the tipping-point at which global engine and vehicle manufacturers are developing products designed to insulate customers from rising fuel prices.

Director Mark Firth said: “Our close working relationship with customers has informed the research and development which is shaping our future product range and led to the creation of new technologies. Holset turbochargers are the component of choice for many international automotive customers because we don’t simply provide them with off-the-shelf products. We develop advanced technological solutions which are ‘fit for market’ – they are developed in partnership to meet customers’ specific requirements.”

The trend towards downsizing where vehicle manufacturers aim to maintain or increase the power outputs from their products while using smaller and lighter engines represents a significant engineering challenge. The new technologies showcased to meet this challenge include: n A Waste Heat Turbine

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show review › iaa2012 PART TWO

Bosch WHS unit utilises waste heat and turns it into energy to assist the drivetrain or to recharge a battery Expander prototype - which captures what would otherwise be lost energy, in the form of heat, from a number of sources on board the vehicle and turns it into useful mechanical (25kW) or electrical (5kWe) power. It is capable of reducing vehicle fuel consumption by 5%. n A Next Generation Variable Geometry Turbocharger based on a validated platform can be tailored to meet the needs of individual customers without re-engineering.

It is 2kg lighter and substantially lower initial cost than the model it replaces, while featuring a high efficiency compressor stage, delivering improved fuel economy. n An Inverse Impeller which replaces conventional designs and, through the use of flow optimisation software, improves compressor stage efficiency by 1% on its own and boosting fuel efficiency. n A Super Map Width Enhancement ‘collar’ enhances map width by 15% and facilitates engine downsizing, improves driveability, widens the operating range, aids efficiency mapping and delivers fuel savings. n Rolling Element Bearings – Cummins Turbo Technologies’ own, high durability, low friction ball-bearings which improve transient response and lower fuel consumption – delivering www.coachandbusweek.com

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a 1% improvement in overall turbocharger efficiency. n Holset Rotary Turbine Control (RTC) – patented flow channelling technology which directs exhaust gas to selected ‘ports’ for limited exhaust control capability. RTC is integrated into the turbine housing within Cummins Turbo Technologies Modulated 2 stage (M2) and Serial 2 stage (S2) products.

Bosch Recent collaboration between Bosch and Mahle created Bosch Mahle TurboSystems, a joint venture company which has developed a two-stage turbocharging system to deliver higher charge air pressure and increased dynamic response throughout the rev-range. It is claimed to significantly improve starting torque and transient response while reducing fuel consumption.

Bosch is ramping up its commercial vehicle fuel injection pressures to 2,500 bar which it says will reduce fuel consumption. The CRSN3.25 injection system employs a pressure-balanced interior for enhanced hydraulic efficiency. The external dimensions of the injector remain identical and are compatible with the predecessor system. Bosch claims the system has improved diagnostic capability and the

incorporation of a pressure limiter means a comprehensive check can be undertaken during routine servicing.

Future developments of the system are already exploring higher injection pressures. Special versions for CNG-fuelled engines have been developed and work continues on Denoxtronic and Departronic exhaust gas treatment systems.

Bosch is also developing parallel hybrid drive systems for medium and heavy commercials – including buses. It centres on installing a 120kW electric drive between the clutch and transmission and can provide electric-only drive for starting off for quieter operation and minimised emissions.

Bosch claims in haulage sector applications it can save up 6% fuel on long distance operation and 20% on multi-drop delivery runs.

The WHR waste heat recovery system takes waste heat from the exhaust tract and converts it into electrical or mechanical energy to feed into the powertrain. Bosch says it has the potential to cut fuel consumption by 5%. It functions by using the heat to create steam which powers an expansion machine (either of piston or turbine configuration – both are being tested). It can link via gears to assist in driving the crankshaft or it can drive a generator to feed electrical systems or a hybrid’s traction

battery.

New alternator technology sees the first 28v units with LIN (local interconnect network)interface which allows vehicle OEMs to introduce smart control in 24v on-board networks and implement an adapted charging strategy to prolong battery life and reduce fuel consumption. LIN allows extensive two-way communication between the engine management system and the alternator. It means the alternator can be turned off during an acceleration phase and switched maximum performance on the overrun. Up to four alternators can be run in parallel under the LIN system.

Bosch infotainment specifically for coaches and minicoaches include interfaces for networking and data exchange in addition to audio, video and navigation systems and monitors. The Bosch Coach Communication Centre is an audio/video system with 24v radio navigation unit employed by EvoBus. It incorporates a digital twin-tuner for clear reception.

Bosch also supplies coach systems to MAN and Neoplan.

VDL Bus & Coach No new products appeared on VDL’s stand but the company insists it’s working hard with production partners to ensure the forthcoming change to Euro 6 deliver greater efficiency for its customers. Under the theme ‘Profit of Ownership’ VDL is maximising the potential in the creation of lighter vehicle structures to producer more efficient and, therefore, profitable buses and coaches.

MD Remi Henkemans said: “Currently the market circumstances are challenging but there are interesting product developments in bus and coach markets because of the upcoming Euro 6 legislation.

“In seeking to optimise our product range we are collaborating with reputable partners including DAF, Cummins, Fiat Powertrain Technologies, ZF, Dana and Voith.

Fiat Powertrain Technologies will be added as an engine supplier to our Citea range for Euro 6 with its ‘SCR-only’ FPT Cursor 9.

As a result of this, FPT is being completely integrated into VDL Bus & Coach service processes which incorporate a Europe-wide service network supported by a central service department and central parts hub.”

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THE BIG PICTURE

At a quarter of a century old, this double-decker still appears to be going strong. It is understood the Northen Counties-bodied Leyland Olympian was new to London Buses in late 1987.

Registered ‘E909KYR’, the vehicle sports the colourful livery of its Cambridgeshire family-run operator, Embling’s of Guyhirn, which also trades as Judds. This scene was caught on camera by Coach & Bus Week Editor Gareth Evans, who took it through a window of JD Wetherspoons’ The George Hotel at lunchtime on Saturday, September 22. The bus is pictured as it turns into Whittlesey Market Place, a good spot for bus and coach photography, according to your Editor, thanks to its frequest arrivals and departures, not to mention good lighting conditions.

If you look carefully, you can see the driver giving a friendly wave – CBW’s very own paparazzo had clearly been spotted. Seriously though, route 701 links Coates with Peterborough Queensgate Bus Station. The service operates partly in competition with Stagecoach Cambridgeshire. However, while the latter’s services traverse various housing estates as they enter Peterborough, route 701 goes direct down the main roads via Stanground and Fletton.

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INSIGHT › FUNDING

Don’t bank on it Coach & Bus Week’s Andrew Cream speaks to David de Koning from Funding Circle – a website which brings investors and businesses together, helping companies find fast finance without the use of banks

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unding Circle is an innovative online marketplace where UK investors lend directly to businesses, offering a modern, transparent and speedy alternative to banks. I spoke with the company’s Head of Communications David de Koning about how the website works and what benefits it can bring to a business.

The company was formed in August 2010 by three cofounders, Samir Desai (CEO), James Meekings (CMO), and Andrew Mullinger (COO). The trio came together in 2009 from backgrounds such as private equity and consultancy and focused on two issues – small businesses not able to get finance and investors looking to get better returns.

David explained how essentially, the company was born out of the collapse of Northern Rock. The founders carried out research on small to medium business lending and determined there were five major players.

“It was a concentrated market,” David continued. “Here was a sector in need of innovation. There are legacy IT systems in banks, so we looked at how it can be done in a quicker and more efficient way.”

company is eligible, the credit assessment team analyses the business application, examining the same data as banks would.

The assessment process takes about two days and if the firm is approved, it takes on average about 14 days for a business to secure a loan.

Companies add their loan request to the marketplace on the Funding Circle website and various investors bid to offer a portion of the funds at an interest rate of their choice in an online-style auction. This process continues until the company’s required loan is matched. Investors can outbid other investors by offering more competitive interest rates, ensuring businesses get the best possible deal. As soon as the loan is 100% filled business can take the finance, but it is advisable to wait in case a lower interest rate is offered over the two weeks. “It’s always very competitive,” David explained.

“Interest is dictated by what the marketplace bids at.”

How it works

Companies initially fill in an online form, which takes around 30 minutes. Any business which applies must be a limited company and established for at least two years. If the form indicates the www.coachandbusweek.com

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David de Koning, Head of Communications, Funding Circle

Operators may turn to Funding Circle when looking for finance to upgrade their vehicle fleets

The average company which uses Funding Circle is 10 years old.

David said: “They are often doing well, have won a big contract for example and need to access finance quickly.

“Companies can obtain loans between £5,000 and £250,000 and above. For the coach and bus industry it’s the perfect size. We do asset purchase as well. We can arrange the purchase of an asset which makes the process much easier for businesses.”

Funding Circle’s fee is between

2% and 5% of the business’ loan.

The sum is agreed at the beginning so there are no hidden costs. “We make it as simple as possible for companies,” David added.

I was intrigued to know how the company was set up. Similar to the age-old ‘chicken or egg’ conundrum, who do you get in first, the investors or the businesses?

“You need to have investors in place first,” David explained. “It was an unknown platform for businesses.

“But it’s a permanent balancing

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act for us, getting the right amount of investors and businesses involved.

“We are very successful at generating good PR. Making sure investors know they are getting better returns on their money and informing businesses on how we can help them out.”

Funding Circle vs. banks

David explained that bank lending to small businesses has been shrinking since September 2008.

There are lengthy processes

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involved with bank lending which are removed through Funding Circle’s online system. David admitted, if the bank lending process was more advanced, Funding Circle may not exist.

However, as it stands, the company believes its method of securing money is faster and more efficient than the banks.

“As banks sort themselves out, and they will, bank lending will still continue to shrink, although it will still be a major avenue for businesses,” David remarked.

“There are three key areas in which Funding Circle is better than banks – speed, transparency and efficiency. It is a much quicker way to access finance.

“Regarding transparency, there is just one fee. Businesses know exactly how much they are paying and they can pay back early if they want.

“And efficiency – businesses don’t have to go down to a bank and spend hours filling in an application form. We found 50% of Funding Circle applicants completed the

process outside of office hours, which suggests they are too busy to take time out from work to do it.

“Businesses like this way of doing it as they know their application is going to be seen quickly.”

It’s not just Funding Circle staff who endorse its system. A quick perusal of the website uncovers video testimonials from previous customers. The underlying message from these businesses is that of ease of use, with phrases being used like “painless and straightforward” and “taking www.coachandbusweek.com

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INSIGHT › FUNDING

Above: Funding Circle’s website has seperate sections for investors and businesses. Below: The process laid out for potential users to see giving people an understanding how Funding Circle works,” he explained. “We are a business which is growing very fast; there is always a lot going on.”

“We also try to put our opinion across on issues which relate to us. This includes lobbying the government to get better access of money for small businesses.”

the complexity out of the process”.

“Plus, the fees are always very competitive,” David continued. “But if banks lower their fees it won’t change – small businesses are just put off by the whole process.

“What we do is similar to the way traditional banks worked. But now we have the technology in place it makes the process much easier.

“The system has been dubbed ‘peer to peer lending’. Our process is not unique but it uses the power of the internet. At the moment there are not really any similar companies – our main competition is the banks.

“We’re taking a traditional and arguably outdated industry and trying to update it and make it quicker.”

The future of the market

With what seems like such a pioneering and novel business model, surely it will only be a matter of time before similar sites crop up?

“I think over time more competition is to be expected – we will see that over the next year or so,” David agreed. “However, that’s www.coachandbusweek.com

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The value of small businesses

a good thing for the industry. You just have to look at the market – it requires greater diversity. There is certainly a lack of competition.

“There will be a number of new players entering the market; some which will be more innovative with ideas which probably haven’t even been thought up yet.

“Small businesses have really lost

out over the years but now we’ll see a lot of different players who are competing on price and service.

“We are not naïve enough to assume we are the only answer to this major problem.”

As Head of Communications, David is involved with the media side of the business. “It’s about getting our name in the press and

The Funding Circle team believes it’s very important for the economy to ensure small businesses can access finance easily. David said: “You just have to look at the statistics. According to the Federation of Small Businesses, small businesses account for 99% of all enterprise in the UK and 48.8% of private sector turnover – they are the engine room of the economy. You can’t hope for economic recovery and growth without helping these companies.

“Typical investors often have a desire to help solve this problem.

They like to see the good their money is doing and take an interest in how small businesses are growing.”

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ESSENTIAL GUIDE

› FUEL & Emissions management

Making fuel go further

Talk about emissions and high fuel prices is never far away from the coach & bus industry. This week’s Essential Guide looks at a variety of methods to save fuel and clean up emissions, keeping vehicles running as efficiently as possible

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eeping fuel costs down and running a greener operation can be done in a variety of ways. Fuel additives can be applied directly to diesel making it burn more cleanly. There are also filters which can be applied to exhaust systems allowing older engines to be competitive with increasing Euro standards. Systems are also available to ensure efficient use of oil, which can result in it needing to be replenished less frequently.

One area often overlooked when thinking about fuel efficiency is the vehicle’s driver. Telematics systems can make both the manager and the driver aware of where driving standards can be improved, allowing them to act while simultaneously improving the experience on the passenger.

Energenics

Envirox use is on the increase following BSOG changes.

Changes in the Bus Service Operators’ Grant (BSOG) in April, which effectively raised the net fuel price in England by around 12%, coupled with government plans to potentially remove the grant’s link to fuel use completely, are prompting more bus operators to consider Energenics’ proven fuel saving additive, Envirox.

While fuel prices have risen, the cost of Envirox has remained stable such that it now adds well below 1% to the fuel cost including additive dosing units. Energenics believes these economics make a compelling financial case when weighed against www.coachandbusweek.com

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recently awarded a grant from the government-backed Technology Strategy Board for a project to improve the performance of aerospace coatings using functional nanoparticles.

However the company’s main product is the fuel saving additive Envirox which won the prestigious award for Innovation at the Thames Valley Business Awards in 2008. It is based on cerium oxide, a wellknown industrial oxidation catalyst widely used in catalytic converters which would not normally be compatible with diesel fuel but using nanotechnology it has been reengineered into a liquid diesel fuel treatment. This ensures a cleaner burn within the combustion chamber - improving fuel efficiency and lowering emissions. It also facilitates the removal of carbon deposits from the engine and particulate filters.

T: 01865 233010 E: info@energenics.org W: www.energenics.org

Tokheim UK Limited

Managing fuel properly will result in less expensive trips to the pumps the proven fuel savings of 4 to 11%. Moreover, the environmental benefits are valued by operators who understand the importance of promoting greener travel.

Respected industry names such as Travel de Courcey, Reading Transport and Chalkwell are currently evaluating Envirox following the example of established customers like East Yorkshire Motor Services, Henderson Travel, Bath and NE Somerset Council and Stagecoach, who are now in their eighth year of using Envirox nationally across the UK. All these operators have installed additive dosing systems, purpose built for treating bulk fuel in depots.

Earlier this year, Reading Transport began a full commercial trial of Envirox across the whole of its fleet of approximately 130 buses based at its main depot in Reading. An additive dosing unit was installed and the bulk diesel fuel storage tanks will be treated

with Envirox for an initial 12-month period. Through the use of Envirox, Reading Transport is targeting an average fuel saving of 4%, which on an annualised basis is equivalent to over 340 tonnes of CO2. It will also remove an estimated 48kg of harmful particulate emissions per year from the fleet. CEO of Reading Transport James Freeman commented: “In the present economic climate we continue to strive for cost savings in our operations whilst also improving our environmental performance.

Envirox has the potential to address both of the aims without any capital investment.”

Energenics Europe Ltd, the producer of Envirox, was originally a nanotechnology spin out from the University of Oxford and is still based at the University’s Begbroke Science Park where their scientists continue to develop novel advanced materials. A consortium led by Energenics has been

“In today’s demanding market conditions, every business is looking to consolidate, maximise if possible, and subsequently increase revenue and profit,” said Tokheim UK Limited’s National Key Accounts Manager (Fleet & Commercial) Lee Slater.

“With this in mind, Tokheim is proud to present our ProFleet business to the UK marketplace.

To support this unrivalled and comprehensive offering of products and services, Tokheim has a range of technologies and a team of local and central specialists (across engineering, retail IT, project conception and construction disciplines) in place which can work in partnership with you, our valued clients, to deliver the best all round solution for managing your fuel. Tokheim ProFleet provides a dedicated set of services to the commercial fleet industries. Design, build, install and service – We are in partnership with our clients every step of the way.”

Tokheim ProFleet’s products and services include: n DiaLOG: The DiaLOG is a browser-based fuel management system which allows operators to control their fuel more effectively.

For the DiaLOG hardware customers can choose from a standalone terminal to control

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multiple dispensers or opt for a fuel management solution integrated in a Quantium 110 or 210 fuel dispenser. n Quantium Fuel Dispensers and AdBlue Solutions: Tokheim’s range of Quantium dispensers for the commercial fleet sector is renowned for its quality. The products and manufacturing plants are ATEX and MID certified.

Tokheim offers a flexible range of AdBlue dispensers as well as a variety of tank storage options ranging from 4,000 to 10,000 Litres. n SmartFuel for Tokheim ProFleet: SmartFuel is Tokheim’s advanced vehicle identification system which links directly to DiaLOG. SmartFuel authorises the transaction through a tag fitted to the vehicle; reducing fraud and paperwork. With the GPS system, the transfer of mileage data can be automated. SmartFuel simplifies the complete transaction from inserting the nozzle, fuelling the vehicle and returning the nozzle to the boot. n Project Management and Support

Services: Tekheim’s local teams can cover everything from the development of CAD drawings and specifications, pipe and tank works through to the construction of fuelling areas, and finally to the installation, commissioning and servicing of equipment. It also installs and maintains its products as well as a full range of third-party suppliers’ fuel equipment.

T: 01382 483500 W: http://tokheim.com

Groeneveld Controlling emissions is a key consideration for bus and coach fleets. That is why Groeneveld has developed an oil management system which assists in emission reduction, while offering the optimal oil level and quality under all operating conditions.

The Oilmaster system from Groeneveld replaces the manual checking and replenishment of oil between changes and

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ESSENTIAL GUIDE

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helps fleets reduce oil consumption, reduce oil wastage, reduce filter contamination and reduce downtime needed for maintenance and repairs.

Oilmaster monitors the oil level when the ignition is switched on and automatically adds oil when necessary so the engine always runs at the optimum oil level. In general, this level is substantially lower than the maximum level mark on the dipstick so oil consumption is substantially lower at low oil levels, and less is required when changing oil. This results in financial benefits for companies, especially when expensive oil is in use. Oil levels can also be easily checked using Levelmaster, the external ‘at a glance’ indicator.

Groeneveld is exhibiting its Oilmaster system on stand B68 at Euro Bus Expo 2012.

T: 01509 600033 E: info-uk@groeneveldgroup.com W: www.groeneveld-group.com

Groeneveld’s Oilmaster ensures engines run at optimum oil levels

E P Morris The recently released Engineering System includes the ability to monitor and control garage equipment. The asset register includes all the details regarding dates of acquisition and value, but in addition the system can be set

up to issue reminders for MOT if required. This is particularly significant where there are safety aspects or VOSA instructions, as is the case for the smoke test equipment. This extension has been carefully considered throughout the build of the system over the past two years.

The system allows for the scanning of any documentation such as instructions or certificates so they can be retrieved as and when necessary, without having to file and recover paper versions. This particular aspect was originally included for the recording of vehicle inspection reports and documents associated with accidents (drivers’ reports, witness statements, estimates for repairs, third party details etc). The SQL database encourages the cross linking of secondary activity to widen the possibilities which can arise.

The system can provide visual representation of the plan – conventional wall chart format for when a vehicle inspection has

been extended for other processes.

Following on from this, E P Morris has devised a booking system and diary for the MOT and VOSA lanes requested by two companies.

The creation of the engineering system has led to the development of the operational performance module. E P Morris had planned to record the technical skills of the engineering staff in terms of the specialist training courses they had undertaken. It transpires it can link those competencies to specific tasks in the vehicle maintenance schedules. That is to say, if an annual service is due on an air conditioning unit, then it shouldn’t be scheduled for when the ‘expert’ is on leave. The demonstration of that aspect led to further discussions and the OPM has been created to fulfil a previously unrealised requirement.

The tracking of CPC progress is fundamental to garage disciplines.

Beyond the HR and personnel regime each depot manager needs to monitor CPC and

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ENGINEERING SYSTEM

E P Morris & Company Limited Tel: 01527 556940 Email: epm@epmorris.co.uk www.epmorris.co.uk

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ESSENTIAL GUIDE

› FUEL & Emissions management

a host of other details, including accidents, ETM problems, licences, complaints, driver assessments, disciplinaries etc., with reminders for follow up and so on. Where there is more than one site the problem is compounded, as paper records are not easy to analyse quickly and spreadsheets are rarely capable of consolidation companywide to produce overall KPIs and later for the staff movements.

The Engineering System is flexible enough to address ad hoc situations. Once, a client had sufficiently detailed stock records to identify warranty conditions at every level but didn’t have any means of tracking the labour costs and trends arising from the procurement policy. At the operators’ request, E P Morris developed interfaces to incorporate defect card handling and workshop job and controls. Operators are then able to see the incidence of costs in terms of cause and labour content as well as simply part spend by bus. In the longer term,

GreenUrban

The GreenUrban Ecotrap promises lower costs and emissions the identification of costs in the broader sense will inform the fleet replacement strategy.

As with the rest of the depot performance system, the modules are integrated in an SQL database / C# environment and can be purchased as a complete system or as individual modules where specific requirements are identified.

E P Morris is now able to host

these systems at Bromsgrove with secure web access, which avoids the requirement for the purchase of expensive hardware, or perhaps more significantly, the employment of someone with experience in database administration.

T: 01527 556 940 E: epm@epmorris.co.uk W: www.epmorris.co.uk/

“The GreenUrban Ecotrap: lower costs, lower emissions, just good eco-nomics.”

Combining over 25 years’ experience in the diesel emissions filtration and automotive OEM sectors, GreenUrban Technologies was established in 2004 with the aim of providing a more cost effective way of reducing emissions – justified by providing financial, health and safety and health damage cost benefits to operators, council fleets and the community.

GreenUrban claims it has answers to some of the questions PSV and HGV operators pose regarding the control of emissions.

Few of them revolve around the actual environmental benefits of filter technology, but fitting a GreenUrban ecotrap to a coach or bus can provide a ‘win win’ outcome. Operators can benefit financially, as well as improving ‘green’ credentials with end users and organisations who

Minimum at installa�on ecotrap direct OEM silencer replacements Fordown�me your Regional Agentwith or Further Informa on, Contact Tom or Brian on :- 01768 480111

sales@greenurban.co.uk, www.greenurban.co.uk

3 year extended warranty currently included on all LEZ compliant systems (limited period offer, call for details) All makes of filters cleaned and refurbished. Vehicles need never be off the road with our maintenance filter module Na�onal network of dealers providing flexible and prompt fi�ng capability.

Bespoke and OEM Replacement Low Emission Exhaust Systems

All coach built and special vehicles covered Unbeatable London LEZ entry cost. Offering an LEZ “ready” System to Minimise Ini�al Capital Outlay Reduced Pollu�on Cer�ficate Supplied with all full Systems, Saving up to £500 a year on Current Road Fund Licence Minimum at installa�on ecotrap direct OEM silencer replacements Fordown�me your Regional Agentwith or Further Informa on, Contact Tom or Brian on :- 01768 480111

sales@greenurban.co.uk, www.greenurban.co.uk

3 year extended warranty currently included on all LEZ compliant systems (limited period offer, call for details) All makes of filters cleaned and refurbished. Vehicles need never be off the road with our maintenance filter module Na�onal network of dealers providing flexible and prompt fi�ng capability.

For your Regional Agent or Further Informa on, Contact Tom or Brian on :- 01768 480111 sales@greenurban.co.uk, www.greenurban.co.uk www.coachandbusweek.com

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ESSENTIAL GUIDE

› FUEL & Emissions management

are increasingly aware of the impact of their activities.

First is the cost saving when operating within Low Emission Zones (LEZ). It will currently cost at least £2,500 per week in penalty charges for a non-compliant coach to enter the London LEZ on a daily basis and there are plans for more LEZs in the UK and EU. Fitting a filter to a pre Euro 4 vehicle thus gives a significant cost saving or business opportunity if the operator is to take on business which involves travelling to London.

All vehicles fitted with an ecotrap are LEZ-compliant and also qualify for a Reduced Pollution Certificate with Road Fund Licence savings of up to 50%, £500 per year per vehicle in some cases, a benefit which all operators can appreciate.

Local authorities, schools etc. will always look favourably on those operators willing to ‘do their bit’ for the environment. Recent studies looking at initiatives in Scotland and using NAEI emission factors used by DEFRA indicated

particulate matter savings of 21.6kg per vehicle per year from a typical service bus running in an urban environment such as Glasgow, Perth or Edinburgh. The same applies to other UK towns and cities. In fact Oxford, York and Leeds have all been reported as considering initiatives to reduce inner city emissions. Not only would this provide payback to the operator through RPC, it also provides around 400% payback on capital investment to the community in terms of health damage cost benefits over five years.

Through its network of UK dealers, GreenUrban is ideally placed to provide the highest quality low emission technology but also to back it up with high quality after sales service. GreenUrban is pleased to be working with a range of firms, strategically placed throughout the UK. T: 01768 480111 E: sales@greenurban.co.uk W: www.greenurban.co.uk/

21st Century 21st Century’s EcoManager program uses industry-leading technology to measure G-forces, speed, braking and excessive vehicle movements. It transmits the data in real-time to the driver and operator. Drivers receive real-time feedback on their driving via an LED display. By adjusting their driving style, especially braking and harsh acceleration, it’s possible to slash fuel costs by up to 12%.

One way to reduce CO2 emissions is to improve fuel consumption. Saving 10 litres of fuel reduces CO2 emissions by 26kg. By installing EcoManager, operators can reduce fuel costs and CO2 emissions at the same time, which count towards carbon offsetting targets. Furthermore, it’s widely accepted many accidents are a result of inappropriate, dangerous or risky driving manoeuvres.

The system is supplied with a unique driver’s aid LED display which communicates with drivers

in real-time using red, amber and green signals to highlight their driving style. Drivers can moderate and adjust their driving behaviour by avoiding the red signals and moving through amber and onto green by adopting the best driving style. Live customer installations have proven it is possible to reduce rear end collisions by over 80% and overall collisions with other vehicles by up to 68%.

EcoManager can also reduce maintenance costs by improving driving styles which in turn reduces wear and tear. Some components therefore require less frequent replacement, resulting in reduced maintenance costs.

Data from operators using EcoManager has shown it’s possible to reduce the number of passenger incidents by over 20%, with individual sites achieving reductions of over 50%.

T: 0844 871 7932 E: sales@21stcenturycctv.com W: www.getecomanager.com/

www.coachandbusweek.com

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the CV Sh ow

CONTEN

inibus operat to visit this ors planning times during 24-26 April year’s CV Show, the develo sure they pment phase should have at the NEC, are being . suspect to occupy even more these projecentirely honest I’m not them than here. is made ts are not previous in out. so ‘in-hou I years. specialist More likely a favour are bringi se’ main vehicle Some of the has yet to ng ed conver as Type manufacture achiev show and their latest in-hou the rs legislaApproval (TA). Currene compliance sion Mountain or six minibu long established se products to with tion Goat marks t the gains Type as vans andstill permit vehicleloopholes in TA 40th annive being emula ses on the Ebersp tradition of five rsary; Mellor Bliss Travel Approved 31-sea under COIF then converted s to be registered Webasto. ted by rival climat acher stand is ter; new ; and Stanfo and registe – but I can’t Combined e contro UNVI for actual red rd delive covering l specialist with all see ly wantin rs eight the the g to pursue the manufacture produced Ducatos those with operational side exhibitors rs this cars and vans under route. They have equipment workshop, mainte of the business and TA nance The run , tools keep visitor on show, there’s of years, for a number down on more than and so s what minibu and suppli application its continued enough Some of busy all day. ers willl to to conver showcase s manufacturers product the OEMs still have produ ted at the CV cts bearin on Show issue concretheir Euro 5 platfor no official minibu manufacture g the s ms.They had to changte reasons for name would r’s brand don’t e the specifi this and say they’v Dortm und’s logical path. seem a cation a e for Sprint expanded produ number er deman of ction facility d - especi martin Cole ally the lowflocaters or City Editor

TS

42

Preview : CV Sho w 2012

48

2

3

merced es-Benz expansion

54

Unimog workho rse

A Meced es-Benz Unimog in a harsh

environment

www.coach andbusweek .com

Minibus is the only monthly specialist supplement dedicated exclusively to the minibus and contains up-to-date technical reviews; new vehicle road test reports; mobility and accessibility safety; community transport reports; and road traffic legislation and lists local authority tenders. Designed to help minibus operators in this highly regulated sector.

0076

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24/09/2012 18:36

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October 3, 2012 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 47

COACH&BUSMARKET – the place to buy and sell

To advertise on these pages for as little as £30 just call 01733 293247 Due to fleet replacement, we have the following vehicles for sale:

Dennis Plaxton R Series Cummins 420 2004: 5 x 53 seats 2005: 2 x 53 seats All are well maintained, low mileage examples (approximately 62,000km per annum) with Cummins 420 engine, air conditioning and AStronic gearboxes. Owned by us from new and used on our own holiday programme. All over cream. Prices include new MoT. Priced to sell at £47,000 (04 reg) and £57,000 (05 reg) plus VAT. Sorry no part exchange facilities!

To view contact Tom Smith, Operations Manager, Alfa Travel on 08451 305777

Passenger and Commercial Vehicles Recovery Dismantlers Parts Sales

Dennis Pointer Dart Mk2 x 130

All spares available includes engine, gearboxes, seats, etc.

Call: 01226 727769 Mobile: 07912 103497 Email: geoff-ripley@btconnect.com www.geoff-ripleysbuscoachsales.com

BARGAINS – MUST GO DUE TO RESTRUCTURING MAYPOLE COACHES HAVE THE FOLLOWING VEHICLES FOR SALE: 74 bus seats, Eminox exhaust, 12 months MOT, air-con, choice of 4 £9,550 + VAT each

1997 VOLVO OLYMPIANS

1994 VOLVO B10M JONCKHEERE DEAUVILLE

Retrimmed 2 yr ago, 12 mths MOT, 51 seats with belts, toilet, DVD/monitor £11,250 + VAT

1993 VOLVO B10M VANHOOL T8 BODYWORK

12 mths MOT, toilet, DVD/monitor, 49 seats with belts £10,250 + VAT ZF gearbox, Cummins engine, 63 seats with 3 point seat belts, 12 months MOT, 3 point belts, tacho, choice of 2 £5,500 + VAT each

1992 LEYLAND LYNX

Don’t forget to say that you saw it in

Tel: 0151 547 2713 or 07802 235778 Telephone Jade Cassidy on 01733 293247 or email jade.cassidy@coachandbusweek.com

553180-1056-Ensign:Layout 1

1/10/12

15:34

Page 1

Ensig DOUBLE DECK 1999 T/V REG DENNIS TRIDENTS

LEZ

COMPLIANT

Cummins/Voith, LEZ compliant with traps, Plaxton President bodies, 62 seats dual door (£13,000) or 70 when converted to single door (£16,000).

Cummins / Allison, Wrights Cadet body, ramp, wheelchair space, Hanover LED’s, CCTV, 39 retrimmed individual seats, from our own fleet and very tidy.

2000 DAF SB120

1999 T/V REG DENNIS DART SLF’S

Caetano Compass bodies, 39 seats, ramps.

ZF automatic, Plaxton Premiere 320 Interurban body, 53 seats.

1993 L REG VOLVO B10M

Volvo Euro 2 engines, ZF gearboxes, Northern Counties bodies, 78 seats.

1997/98 VOLVO OLYMPIANS

1997/8 R REG VOLVO OLYMPIANS

9.9m, 2 door, 62 seats, DDA and LEZ compliant, large choice.

2001 DENNIS TRIDENTS

LEZ

COMPLIANT

2000 W REG DENNIS DARTS

LEZ

COMPLIANT

Cummins/Voith, LEZ compliant for 2012 with traps to Euro 4, CCTV, Alexander ALX400 bodies, DDA compliant or upseated to 80 seats.

1999/2000/2001 V/X/51 PLATE DENNIS TRIDENTS

Cummins / Allison, Plaxton Pointer 2 bodies, LEZ compliant, 2 door, CCTV, large choice, £4500 each plus tyres (£400).

Volvo Euro 2 engines, ZF gearboxes, Alexander low height 13 feet 8 bodies, 87 seats.

2005 MINI POINTER DART Cummins Euro 3, Allison automatic, 8.8m, 29 seats, new MOT.

OPEN TOP BUSES A SPECIALITY -

Juliette Close, Purfleet Industrial Telephone 01708 865656 Fax: 01708 8 Visit our website for current s

553180-1056-Ensign:Layout 1

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17:42

Page 2

nbus

K ER SPECIALIST ZF automatics, Plaxton Premiere 320 bodies, 53 seats, exhaust traps fitted, LEZ compliant.

1998 R REG DAF SB3000’S

2000/2001 X REG DENNIS SUPER POINTER DARTS

2001 DDA COMPLIANT DENNIS DART

Plaxton Pointer 2 dual door body, 31 seats, CCTV, particulate trap fitted, LEZ 2012 compliant, only £6,500 plus tyres (£400).

LAST ONE

ZF automatic, Ikarus body, 44 seats, MOT March 2013.

1999 T REG DAF SB220 SLF

Euro 3, ZF automatics, East Lancs bodies, 37 seats, full DDA, Hanover LED’s, long MOT’s.

2002 VOLVO B6BLE’S

2002 DENNIS TRIDENT

Cummins 160 engines, Voith gearboxes, 35 seats as dual door, or 43 seats as single door.

Euro 4, Wrights Gemini body, dual door, 68 seats.

LAST ONE

2007 VOLVO B9TL

1988 SUPER METROBUS OPEN TOPS

Re-engined with Cummins ISB Euro 3 engines, Voith gearboxes, 63 seats upstairs.

1999 S REG SUPER POINTER DART 11.3m, uprated engine and Allison World Series gearbox, 41 seats.

Cummins / Allison, Alexander ALX200 bodies, 9.2m, 27 seats, DDA and LEZ compliant.

2001 Y REG DARTS

Euro 3 Cummins, Plaxton body, single door, 67 seats, DDA, Hanover LED’s.

- BRITAIN’S BIGGEST BUS DEALERS Park, Purfleet, Essex, RM15 4YF 8 864340 e-mail: sales@ensignbus.com t stock at www.ensignbus.com

553368-1055-Pembridge

24/9/12

17:49

Page 1

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 (11) 2011 Ford Transit 15 seat 3.5 ton, 2.4tdi engine 115ps, tacho, 10,000 km £17,500

(59) 2009 Ford Transit 17 seat 2.4tdi 115ps, tacho, air-con, 15,000km only £17,495

LDV MINIBUSES

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

(57) 2007 LDV Maxus 17 seat, high back seats with three point belts, twin side doors, COIF/ PSV, silver £8,995

(07) Peugeot Boxer 3.5 ton 17 seat minibus, 2.2 diesel with three point seat belts, 28,000 miles, COIF/PSV £10,495

(57) 2007 LDV Maxus 15 seat minibus, high back seats with three point belts £7,495

2006 (55) Vauxhall Vivaro, 7 seat, wheelchair tracking, inboard electric lift, easy clean floor, 55,000 miles £7,995

SOLD

(05) 2005 LDV Convoy 2.4tdi 17 seat minibus, high back seats with three point seat belts, COIF/PSV tacho £4,995

OTHER MAKES

SOLD

WHEELCHAIR ACCESS

(57) LDV Maxus LWB 9 seats tracking to take two wheelchairs, inboard lift, 49,000 miles, £9,995

New Renault Master 17 seat LM35/ 2.2di 125ps, six speed, satnav, tacho, fully tracked floor with removable seats £21,995

(07) LDV Maxus LWB 13 seat, tracking to take two wheelchairs, under floor tail lift £7,995

(09) 2009 Renault Master 16 seat minibus, tacho,high back seats with three point belts, 35,000km £15,650

(06) 2006 Vauxhall Vivaro 1.9 cdti 9 seat, inboard lift, tracking for 2 wheelchairs, 45,000 miles £8,995

New Renault Master 17 seat LWB LM39dci 126 Minibus, tacho ONLY £20,350

(03) 2003 Fiat Doblo SX 1.9 diesel, low floor, four seats plus one wheelchair, lightweight ramp, 45,000 miles £3,495

(07) 2007 Peugeot Boxer 3.5 ton 17 seat minibus, high back seats, rear two rows of seats on tracking, 33,000 miles COIF/PSV £9,500

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 £6,495

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%

06 (06) FORD TRANSIT 9 SEAT W/CHAIR ACC OR 4 SEATING/2 W/CHAIR NEW INTERNAL LIFT £11,495

2007 (07) FORD TRANSIT 350 LWB 10 SEAT WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE MINIBUS 14,864 MILES P.O.A.

2010 (60) RENAULT TRAFFIC 9 SEAT WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE DELIVERY MILEAGE £24,995

MULTIPART & LDV/MAXUS PARTS STOCKISTS

(PONTYPOOL) LTD

05 (55) VOLKSWAGEN LT35 TDI LWB W/CHAIR ACCESS MINIBUS 45,090 MILES P.O.A.

06 (06) VOLKSWAGEN LT35 TDI LWB W/CHAIR ACCESS MINIBUS 37,627 MILES P.O.A.

P.O.A.

• ALTAS CONVERSION • 17 SEAT MINICOACH • DOUBLE GLAZED WINDOWS • FULL AIR CONDITIONING • POWER DOOR LOW ENTRY STEP

NEW MERCEDES SPRINTER TOURLINE 516CDI

Tel: 01495 757111 Mob: 07850 739446 (Haydn) or visit our website www.minibussales.biz to view the above stock

09 (59) FORD TRANSIT 17 SEAT MEDIUM ROOF TACHO COIF/PSV 30,000 MILES CHOICE OF 2 £16,495

2006 (55) LDV CONVOY ELWB MINI COACH 17 SEATS 90PS EXCEL CONVERSION COIF/PSV TACHO £10,495

05 (55) MERCEDES SPRINTER 413 SENSORY BUS 16 SEAT W/CHAIR ACCESSIBLE UNDERFLOOR LIFT COIF/PSV 68,000 MILES £15,995

08 (58) IVECO 50c15 17 SEAT EXCEL CONVERSION LUXURY MINICOACH COIF/PSV £24,995

14:08

07 (07) LDV MAXUS W/CHAIR ACCESSIBLE 4 SEAT INBOARD LIFT UNWIN TRACKING £12,495

1/10/12

58 PLATE VW CRAFTER CR50LWB 16 SEAT W/CHAIR ACC MINIBUS STANFORD CONVERSION 2.5/135PS TDCI COIF/PSV £29,995

p49_CBW_1056 Page 1

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52 | COACH & BUS WEEK | October 3, 2012

2001 (Y) LDV CONVOY 12 seats, PSV test expired, tail lift & floor tracking, choice of 2.

£1,500.00 each or £2,500 for the 2 For more information visit

www.staffordbuscentre.com Tel: 01782 791774/07803 222552

IN STOCK

2000 W REG DENNIS DART CAETANO 44 seats, 38 with belts, repainted and long test.

Phone for details.

For more information visit

www.staffordbuscentre.com Tel: 01782 791774/07803 222552

BERKHOF AXIAL 50 DAF powered, ZF automatic gearbox 57 seats with 3 point belts Executive coach 12.9mtr

01274 681144

Gomersal, Cleckheaton, West Yorkshire, BD19 4BJ Email: busandcoachsales@arriva.co.uk www.arrivabusandcoach.co.uk Bus and Coach

take a test drive today

1999/2000 Dennis Trident Alexander ALX 400 V and X reg, long wheelbase, EURO 4

COACH&BUSMARKET

Looking for a great deal to sell your vehicles?

Contact Jade Cassidy now on :

01733 293247 For more information visit

www.staffordbuscentre.com Tel: 01782 791774/07803 222552

jade.cassidy@coachandbusweek.com Coach & Bus Week – the only paid-for weekly magazine in the bus and coach industry – there’s no comparison!

679458-1056-Pickrell

H. W. PICKRELL

1/10/12

18:07

Page 1

MINIBUS AND WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE VEHICLES

Gardiners Lane North • Crays Hill • Billericay • Essex • CM11 2XE Tel: 01268 521033 • Mobile: 07860 894331 • Fax: 01268 284951

Email: sales@hwpickrell.co.uk - www.hwpickrell.co.uk Finance available on all vehicles (subject to status) Written details on request.

WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE MINI BUSES For latest stock arrivals follow @h_w_pickrel

53 REG MERCEDES SPRINTER 416 CDI

06 REG RENAULT MASTER SM 33 2.2TD

06 REG RENAULT MASTER SL 33 2.2TD

55 REG MERCEDES SPRINTER 413 CDI UVG TREKA

4x4 ambulance, LWB, Wilker box body conversion, full air con/climate, side loading door, 3 high back seats, Falcon stretcher, PLS stretcher lift, very high spec, one owner ex Air Force, only 25,950 kms.

Manual gearbox, high roof, O & H conversion, PAS, side loading door, side step, 6 high back seats plus 1 x w/chair, Eberspacher heater, air con, Unwin tracked floor, Ricon tail lift, 21253.441 miles.

Manual gearbox, low roof, O & H conversion, PAS, side loading door, side step, 4 high back seats plus 1 x w/chair, Eberspacher heater, Unwin tracked floor, Ricon tail lift, 17,491 miles.

Auto gearbox, LWB, PAS, climate control, n/s/f electric power door, 16 high back removable seats on NMI quick release, Eberspacher, PLS underfloor tail lift, ex local authority, COIF’d, 83,180 kms.

54 REG M ERCEDES SPRINT ER 411 CDI

08 REG FORD TRANSIT 430 JUMBO 2.4TDCI

09 REG VAUXHALL MOVANO LM35 2.5TD

2008 57 REG VAUXHALL VIVARO L H28 2.0 T D

Tiptronic gearbox, Euromotive PSC bus conversion, front entry slam door with low entry step, 16 x high back removable seats, Eberspacher, ex local authority, COIF'd, tacho fitted, only 66,780 kms.

Manual gearbox, high roof, PAS, LWB, tacho, side loading door, AVS side step, 13 rear high back seats, Unwin tracked floor, Eberspacher heater, air con, underfloor Ratcliff tail lift, tacho, 53,946kms.

Manual, semi high roof factory bus conversion, side entry slam door with low entry step, 16 x high back seats plus driver, ex local authority, tacho, only 23,469 kms.

Manual gearbox, hi roof, O & H conversion, PAS, side loading door, side step, 5 high back seats plus 1 x w/chair, Eberspacher heater, Unwin tracked floor, Ricon tail lift, 30,280 miles only.

56 REG RENAULT MASTER MM33 2.5TD

60 REG FORD TRANSIT T430 JUMBO 2.4TD

2008 58 REG VAUXHALL MOVANO LM39 2.5TD

57 REG VOL KSWAGEN CRAFTER CR35

Manual gearbox, high roof, Warnerbus conversion, PAS, side loading door, side step, sat nav, 6 high back seats plus 1 x w/chair, air con, Unwin Innotrax floor, Ricon tail lift, 14,300 miles only.

Manual gearbox, high roof, factory bus conversion, side entry slam door with low entry step, 16 x high back seats plus driver, ex local authority, only 6,900 miles.

Manual, high roof, PAS, LWB, O & H conversion, side loading door, AVS side step, 8 high back seats + driver, Unwin tracked floor, stretcher, Ricon tail lift, piped oxygen, Eberspacher heater, 48,441 miles.

LWB, semi high roof, BC conversion, PAS, SLD, side step, 11 rear high back seats, front storage area or double passenger, air con, Unwin tracked floor, space for 2 x w/chairs, PLS internal tail lift, choice of two.

09 PEUGEOT EXPERT TEPEE 1.9 HDI

07 REG RENAULT MASTER MM33 2.5TD

2008 57 REG RENAULT MASTER LM39 2.5TD

07 REG F ORD TRANSIT 100 350 2.4 TDCI

Manual 5 speed gearbox, PAS, CD player, air con, twin side loading doors, 2 high back seat in rear, double passenger seat front, cut out floor, fold down ramp, blue metallic silver, alloy wheels, 14,932 miles.

Manual gearbox, high roof, Warnerbus conversion, PAS, side loading door, side step, sat nav, 6 high back seats plus 1 x w/chair, Webasto, Unwin innotrax floor, Ricon tail lift, 14,300 miles only.

Manual, high roof, PAS, LWB, SCW conversion, side loading door, AVS side step, 10 high back seats, Unwin tracked floor, Ricon tail lift, ex local authority, 27,478 miles.

Manual, MWB, high roof, PAS, DL conversion, side loading door, AVS side step, 8 high back seats, fully Unwin tracked floor, Eeberspacher heater, Ricon tail lift, 28,779 miles.

2008 57 REG RENAULT MASTER LM39 25TDI

06 REG MERCEDES SPRINTER 411 CDI

60 REG RENAULT MASTER SM33 2.5TD

07 REG RENAULT MASTER LM39 2.5TD

Manual, high roof, PAS, LWB, new conversion, side loading door, AVS side step, 14 high back seats, AMF m2 fully tracked floor, AMF tail lift, tacho fitted, only 49,046kms (30,478 miles).

Auto gearbox, LWB, PAS, Frank Guy conversion, n/s full height electric power door, 16 high back removable seats on NMI quick release, Eberspacher, PLS underfloor tail lift, ex local authority, COIF’d, 103,080 kms.

Manual gearbox, high roof, Advance conversion, PAS, side loading door, side step, 6 high back seats plus 2 x w/chair, heater, air con, Unwin tracked floor, Ricon tail lift, 2,060 miles only.

Auto gearbox, coach built body, KFS conversion, PAS, side loading door, low side step, 15 high back seats plus driver, full air con, Webasto, Unwin tracked floor, lowering air suspension and ramp, 44,087 miles only.

09 REG RENAULT MASTER MM33 2.5TD

2009 59 REG VAUXHALL VIVARO SL28 2.0 TD

08 REG FORD TRANSIT 430 JUMBO 2.4TDCI

07 REG RENAULT MASTER LH35 2.5TD

Manual gearbox, high roof, Warnerbus conversion, PAS, side loading door, side step, 7 high back seats plus 1 x w/chair, full air con, Webasto, Unwin Innotrax floor, Braun tail lift, 27,087 miles only.

Manual gearbox, low roof, O & H conversion, PAS, twin side loading door, side step, 4 high back seats plus 1 x w/chair, modified low floor, electric winch & fold out ramp, 15,491 miles.

Manual gearbox, high roof, PAS, LWB, tacho, side loading door, electric side step, 11 high back seats, Unwin tracked floor at rear, Eberspacher heater, underfloor Ratcliff tail lift, 34,954 miles.

LWB, hi roof, multi purpose office/comms unit, PAS, SLD with AVS side step, awning, 3 x workstations, amber light, bars front and rear, overhead storage lockers, heating, generator, microwave, tv, only 1,500 miles.

000000-1047-Eastwoods DPS

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15:51

Page 1

DUE TO ILLNESS OF THE MD, MASSIVE SALE WITH HUGE REDUCTIONS – ALL MUST BE SOLD! 2003 DENNIS JAVELIN PLAXTON PROFILE Registered Dec 2003, double glazed tinted glass, Cummins 275 engine, 6 speed manual gearbox, 49 seats, toilet & washroom, ready for immediate use, MoT tested, 120,000 miles, choice of two.

Straight from MOD.

£P.O.A

Straight from MOD

VOLKSWAGEN TRANSPORTER Dec 07, low mileage, 7 seats, quick release tracking for wheelchair use.

£12,500 + VAT

06 MAN EVOLUTION

14/220, 37 seats, SLF automatic, wheelchair ramp, superb condition throughout, fully MoT’d.

£45,500

Part exchange considered

BERKOF RADIAL 1998

53 seats, Cummins 300 engine, ex council, manual box, air cond, MoT, very low mileage, super condition.

£19,500

CAETANO (SALVADOR) 1998

57 seats, in white, Cummins 245 engine, MoT Sept 2012, very clean vehicle.

£19,500 + VAT

BMC AIRPORT BUS

32 seats, 220 Cummins, new MoT this week.

QUICK SALE WANTED.

£15,000

1995 PLAXTON PREMIER MERCEDES VARIO 612

1998, 20 new seats, wheelchair lift on wheel tracking, 20 new seats.

Choice of 6.

TRADE SALE OR SEPARATE

1995 DENNIS JAVELIN PLAXTON PREMIER HIGHLINER

53 recliner seats, 290 Cummins, automatic, continental door, toilet, full years MoT, must be seen.

£POA + VAT

02 LDV

Minibus with 12 seats, long MOT, wheelchair lift and very clean.

£P.O.A.

1996 DENNIS JAVELIN

10 metre, new MoT, 41/47 seats, 220 Cummins, 6 speed box, new stretch panels, repainted.

Choice of 2.

£POA + VAT

B10 engine In excellent condition throughout MOT

£16,000 +VAT

000000-1047-Eastwoods DPS

30/7/12

15:51

Page 2

IVECO SERVICE BUS

67 seats (moquet), new 2006, only 12,000 miles since new,Vihixel body, auto gearbox, air-con, MOT full year, LEZ, must be seen, superb condition.

£65,000 + VAT PX considered

PLAXTON PARAGON

48 reclining seats plus courier seat, air-con.

£49,500 + VAT

03 MERCEDES VARIO

With wheelchair lift, 13 seats, low mileage.

£12,000 + VAT

02 SETRA

1996 VOLVO PLAXTON PREMIER HIGH LINER

B10 engine, 14 months test, 70 seats, tinted double glazing, curtains, continental door, must be seen.

£POA

Model S-315 GT HD, 6 cylinder MAN engine, manual 6 speed gearbox, 49 seater, full air conditioning, many extras, full year MOT

£45,000 + VAT

Part exchange considered

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56 | COACH & BUS WEEK | October 3, 2012

THE FOLLOWING VEHICLES OFFERED FOR SALE DUE TO FLEET REPLACEMENT

2002 (52 reg) Optare Solo M850 Mercedes engine, 27 seats 23 with belts, currently undergoing body prep and paint.

£17,950

For more information visit

LEZ

COMPLIANT

Setra 315GTHD DOFR: LEZ Cert: MOT: Mileage:

22/04/2005 30/09/2013 12 Months 350-450,000 kms

£ POA - last two remaining 49 seat Exec, Toilet, Boiler, Cooler, DVD, 2 x Monitors, Mercedes Engine, A/S Tronic Gearbox, Intarder, Air Conditioning, Webasto, Alloy Wheels.

Owned and maintained by us from new. Repaint by arrangement.

www.staffordbuscentre.com Tel: 01782 791774/07803 222552

Dennis Dart Super Pointer 45 seats with belts, Tacho, Euro4 with RPC/LEZ, ready to go

£13,950

For more information visit

www.staffordbuscentre.com Tel: 01782 791774/07803 222552

LEZ

COMPLIANT

DOFR: LEZ Cert: MOT: Mileage:

11/04/2006 31/10/2013 12 Months 250-300,000 kms

£29,950 o.n.o.

18 Reclining Seats, Extended Boot, Manual Gearbox, Air Conditioning, Euroliner Wheel trims. Owned and maintained by us from new.

Repaint by arrangement.

V d PS ste te

Toyota Optimo V

2009 09 REG FORD TRANSIT

15 seat factory bus with only 9K miles, tacho, COIF, ready to go

£14,250

For more information visit

Scania Irizar Century K114

DOFR: 28/04/2006 LEZ Cert: 30/10/2013 MOT: 12 Months Mileage: 250-300,000 kms £79,950 o.n.o. - Choice of two 53 Reclining Seats, 11 Litre Engine, ZF Auto Gearbox, Reverse Camera, Air Conditioning, Alloy Wheels.

Owned and maintained by us from new. Repaint by arrangement.

Please Contact Andy Nixon To Arrange A Viewing Office: 020 8768 9610 Mobile: 07872 409281 E Mail: andynixon@clarkescoaches.co.uk

V d PS ste te

LEZ

COMPLIANT

www.staffordbuscentre.com Tel: 01782 791774/07803 222552 2008 (57) FORD TRANSIT FACTORY MINIBUS

17 seats, 50K miles, tacho, etc.

£12,450.00

Also 58 Reg available.

For more information visit

www.staffordbuscentre.com Tel: 01782 791774/07803 222552

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BUY GET A

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VEHICLE SALES | PRODUCTS & SERVICES | MARKET | VEHICLE SALES | PRODUCTS & SERVICES | MARKET | VEHICLE SALES | PRODUCTS & SERVICES

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58 | COACH & BUS WEEK | October 3, 2012

COACH&BUSCLASSIFIED BUILDINGS

AUDIO &VIDEO

ENGINES

HEAVY DUTY STEEL BUILDINGS

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

Don’t forget to say that you saw it in

TO PURCHASE CHECKPOINT/ DUSTITE

loose wheelnut indicators or to locate your nearest stockist:

Tel: 01524 271200

www.checkpoint-safety.com Email: info@checkpoint-safety.com

THE CUMMINS ENGINE SPECIALISTS PARTS & SERVICE DIVISION

D.I.E.S.E.L. LIMITED OFFER A VAST RANGE OF SERVICES FOR ALL TYPES OF CUMMINS ENGINES FREE TECHNICAL ADVICE AND SUPPORT FULL OR 3/4 BUILT RECON ENGINES COMPETITIVE & COST EFFECTIVE SERVICE REPAIRS FIXED PRICE ENGINE REPAIRS/OVERHAULS COMPREHENSIVE PARTS STOCK – NEW AND USED ON SITE REPAIRS FULL ELECTRONIC DIAGNOSTICS CONTACT US TODAY FOR ALL YOUR CUMMINS REQUIREMENTS TELEPHONE UK: 01708 859625 FAX UK: 01708 857630 EMAIL: SALES@DIESEL.UK.COM

GARAGE EQUIPMENT

Mobile Column Lifts FREE

Set of Axle Stands when you purchase your Mobile Columns JHM Butt & Company Limited Sales: 01302 718226

www.buttsequipment.com equipment.com

CRAIG TILSLEY Suppliers of Reconditioned

ENGINES

Tel: 01782 791524 or 01782 791527 Fax: 01782 791316 Email: info@craigtilsley.co.uk www.craigtilsley.co.uk

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

GARAGE EQUIPMENT SPECIALISTS

GARAGE EQUIPMENT

Experts in Commercial Garage Equipment

www.bwsequip.co.uk BWS (0117) 9530381

REGISTRATIONS G £690 AXZ 70 DRZ 18 MHZ 24 RNZ 12 KIG 17 TJZ 50 TUI 18 TUI 19 TUI 20

SPEEDY REGISTRATIONS CO LTD G ‘Buy with confidence – CNDA Member’

£350 £99 £99 £50 AJZ 262 DXZ 1150 MJZ 6749 CXZ 4470 CEZ 838 HIG 5338 MNZ 1195 CXZ 4471 KBZ 737 HIG 5339 ONZ 1180 DFZ 4679 RBZ 696 IIG 2278 REZ 3369 DRZ 8551 RDZ 919 IIG 2279 RUI 2117 DRZ 8552 SBZ 171 JIG 9298 SUI 8836 ERZ 6162 VIW 979 JIG 9299 SUI 8837 JFZ 8393 WJI 848 KIG 5113 TJZ 1116 JFZ 8394 XJI 474 KIG 5114 TJZ 1119 JIG 8459 We Buy for Cash, also Part Exchange

Tel: (028) 6638 7124 Fax: (028) 6638 7771

Millwood, Lisbellaw, Co. Fermanagh, N. Ireland BT94 5HQ

£50 JIG 8479 KFZ 3734 KFZ 3735 KIG 6631 KIG 6632 RNZ 2144 RNZ 2145 TUI 7971 TUI 7972

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October 3, 2012 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 59

COACH&BUSCLASSIFIED INSURANCE

TICKETING

REPLACEMENT LEZ EXHAUSTS

Direct Replacement LEZ Exhaust Systems Typical 2-4 Hour Install 2 Year Standard Warranty Unique Maintenance Modules - Keep your Vehicle on the Road Passive and Active Systems available - Suitable for all Drive Cycles For your Regional Agent or Further Information, Contact Tom or Brian on :- 01768 480111 or sales@greenurban.co.uk

TICKETING

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DRIVERS DAILY DEFECT BOOKS, MAINTENANCE WALL PLANNERS, SAFETY INSPECTION PADS, TACHOS, DRIVERS WALLETS ETC. QUALITY APPROVED PRODUCTS, FAST DELIVERY

CALL ORDERLINE: 01329 280280 Email: info@wardint.co.uk

DRIVER CPC PERIODIC TRAINING AVAILABLE NATIONWIDE

Ward International Consulting Ltd 70 Marks Tey Road, Fareham, Hants PO14 3UR www.wardint.co.uk

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COACH&BUSCLASSIFIED TYRES &TYRE EQUIPMENT

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MANAGEMENT & REPAIRS

MOUNTAIN TYRES LTD VEHICLE CERTIFICATE AGENCY

QUALITY AVON TREAD USED

Mountain Tyres is a newly established company making commercial retreaded tyres. We have a modern retreading plant based near Caerphilly, and we only use Grade One Tyre Casings in the production of all our tyres to produce a top quality tyre. All our tyres are guaranteed against failure.

WE ALSO CARRY OUT MAJOR AND MINOR REPAIRS, BUILD TYRES ONTO RIMS Our staff have over 25 years experience in the Retreading industry and we are Certified by the Vehicle Certificate Agency

PRICE LIST

205-75-17.5 from ........................................................£50.00 215-75-17.5 from ........................................................£50.00 245-70-19.5 from ........................................................£60.00 275-70-22.5 from .....................................................£120.00 295-80-22.5 from .....................................................£125.00 315-80-22.5 from .....................................................£125.00 385-65-22.5 from .....................................................£135.00 MAJOR REPAIRS ..........................................................£35.00 MINOR REPAIRS ..........................................................£15.00 All Prices Plus VAT

Ffynonau-Duon Farm, Pentwyn, Bargoed, Caerphilly, CF81 9NP

VEHICLE SPARES

Trevor Wigley & Son Bus Ltd

TW FULLY LICENSED END OF LIFE VEHICLE CENTRE TW REDUNDANT AND SCRAP VEHICLES TAKEN TW PROFESSIONAL, EFFICIENT SERVICE TW ALL REQUIREMENTS CATERED FOR TW VARIOUS SPARES AVAILABLE TW CONTACT US FOR FULL AVAILABILITY

Call 01226 723147 Night Service 01226 716479 Fax 01226 700199 Email wigleys@btconnect.com

www.twigley.com

October 3, 2012 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 61

Seen something funny? Send it to gareth.evans@coachandbusweek.com, fax 0845 2802927 or write to: Last Stop, Coach & Bus Week, 3 The Office Village, Cygnet Park, Forder Way, Hampton, Peterborough PE7 8GX

A very PC barrier Don’t you just love so-called ‘Political Correctness’ (PC)...?

For those of us who are more traditional by nature, it’s viewed as a plague of modern life, souring the English language, often with dreadful imports from across the Atlantic, it would seem. Stepping down from the soap box, before we’re derided as ‘old fashioned’ by those who are ‘pro-PC,’ as it were, the following raised a chuckle or three in the CBW office on Monday morning, which we shared on Facebook and Twitter: Crash barriers are now called ‘vehicle restraint barriers’ - according to the Highways Agency. We at CBW will still be referring to them as crash barriers, however.

Monday: Press day. Work our socks off even more than normal – our InDesign software doesn’t have a chance for a breather. For the second week running, finish at a very civil hour of the day.

Grey’s of Ely has given a big thank you to all who came to its Macmillan coffee morning on Friday (September 28). With 106-seats on the bus (a Dennis Condor, pictured) Grey’s felt it accommodated everyone. Sadly our Editor and well-known coffee drinker Gareth was in the Welsh borderland and could not attend, though perhaps that’s why there was enough coffee to go round… Richard Grey told us £75 was raised. Well done to all.

Arriva’s in �light entertainment

The tweet has gathered some significant momentum since it was posted

Customer served!

Drawn to our attention by popular tongue-in-cheek blog railwayeye. blogspot.co.uk was this quite brilliant customer service response to a foul-mouthed East Coast Trains customer on Twitter.

Dilbert

Out of curiosity, our James checked the tweet again on Monday and it had been retweeted almost 450 times. There are a couple of individuals failing to see the funny side and commenting on how ‘unprofessional’ East Coast Train’s response was, but we think it’s plain to see the vast majority rather enjoyed the way the firm dealt with the abusive Tweet.

Following on from our story on this page last week, Arriva Yorkshire has released a video of the bannerpulling aircraft advertising its upcoming delivery of 40 new buses.

The clip shows two drivers carrying the banner onto a Wright VDL before appearing to pilot the aeroplane themselves.

The video is delivered in a silent film style, devoting a few frames to scene-setting subtitles and with the bus drivers moving in slightly fast-forward manner, akin to films from a bygone era. Was Arriva piloting a new marketing method?

Check out www.youtube.com/ watch?v=XKxiGXK0lxM .

Tuesday: Much to the amusement of my colleagues, I deal with an unwanted nuisance caller from overseas in my own unique way – my comedy/silly character voices have their uses...

Wednesday: A busy day in the office writing up a ‘Face to Face’ interview for a forthcoming issue. Tomorrow’s itinerary has to be hastily re-jigged after planned ‘Operator Profile’ visit to a North Wales coach operator is rescheduled. Arrive ‘back home’ by 2245hrs.

Thursday: Stop off for a coffee and bacon roll at the Ffestiniog Railway’s excellent Spooners’ café in Porthmadog. Grab some snaps of a Ratho Coaches Volvo 9700.

Spend an enjoyable time with two firms, who despite being high quality and friendly, normally prefer to remain firmly out of the limelight – Clynnog & Trefor and Berwyn, south west of Caernarfon.

Time is against us. I just manage to squeeze in the planned visit to the ever-friendly Alpine Travel. I’m in my element on days like this.

Leave Llandudno at 1800hrs.

For me, it’s like driving Tanat Valley’s former Llandudno coach service again – although the A470 has been improved and Llanrwst looks far more buoyant these days.

Friday: Arrive in Shrewsbury just after 0800hrs. Spend an interesting time with the town’s Dial-a-Ride.

Also meet Arriva Shrewsbury’s Andy Page. A planned meeting for the afternoon doesn’t go ahead, so I head west before the worst of the traffic almost grinds the road network to a halt. Arrive back at my parents feeling shattered. After a coffee, start writing – no rest for the wicked… www.coachandbusweek.com

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RECRUITMENT

Driver Instructor retires after 37 years After 37 years with Wilts & Dorset, Mike Smith, from Oakdale, Poole is retiring after training between 150 - 200 drivers to PCV standard in 13 years of instructing.

After a variety of jobs, Mike’s career in the bus industry started in 1967 when he joined Bournemouth Corporation Transport as a conductor and then undertook driver training. He spent the summer of 1974 as a tours driver with Shamrock & Rambler, before joining Hants & Dorset (now Wilts & Dorset) as a crew driver at Poole depot in 1975. In 1999 he was promoted to Driving Instructor.

Andrew Wickham, Managing Director of Wilts & Dorset and sister Go Ahead Group owned

Deadlines Booking: Monday 5.00pm Full artwork: Monday 5.00pm

Contact Ian Gillis 01733 293484

ian.gillis@coachandbusweek.com

Stagecoach Yorkshire welcomes new apprentices

MD Andrew Wickham presents vouchers and champagne to Mike Smith by one of the training coaches bus and coach operations in the region, said he wished Mike, now 65, a long and happy retirement.

He said: “Mike’s contribution to the company as a driver and the careers of many people as an instructor is exemplary. His colleagues and I am sure, many of our customers, will join me in wishing him many days on the golf course and enjoy the chance to travel with the family.”

Stagecoach Yorkshire has welcomed five new apprentices.

Alex Littlewood (18) will work at the operator’s Barnsley depot during his training as an autoelectrician, while Ashton Bywater (18) will learn to be a mechanical engineer.

At the Chesterfield depot Greg Powell (20) is training to be a mechanical engineer and Sam Harris (19) as an apprentice auto-electrician. James Hammond (21) is training to become a mechanical engineer while based at Stagecoach’s Ecclesfield depot.

Stagecoach’s apprenticeship scheme also includes off the job training which will see the new faces learning at the S&B Academy in Bristol on a block release basis during the first three years.

Stagecoach Yorkshire Engineering Director Joe Gilchrist said:

“Stagecoach Yorkshire’s apprentices demonstrate our commitment to investing in the skilled labour force of the future. The scheme offers the young people involved the opportunity to learn practical skills firsthand and we’re delighted to welcome all five new faces to the Stagecoach team.”

Stagecoach Yorkshire’s five new apprentices

www.coachandbusweek.com

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“I honestly couldn’t believe the response from the job advertisement we put in CBW. We had nine great CVs sent in and are in the process of interviewing all of them for the two roles. The service I received from Ian in the sales department and June, who designed our ad, was second to none. I wouldn’t hesitate to use CBW again and would recommend the magazine to anyone looking to �ill their own vacancies.”

Keith Sanzo, Director, Eurotaxis

RECRUITNOW www.coachandbusweek.com/jobs

Operations Manager London

Testamonial_Eurotaxis_serif.indd 1

19/07/2012 17:06

We are currently recruiting for an experienced Operations Manager to ensure the continued smooth and efficient running of our fleet based in West London.

Applicants will have experience of dealing with the planning, organising, coordinating the day to day operation whilst ensuring quality control and customer service levels are maintained. The role will be responsible for scheduling the drivers and vehicles whilst ensuring and improving the performance, productivity, efficiency and profitability of the business through the provision of effective methods and strategies.

The successful candidate will ensure full compliance of EU driver and working time directive regulations and hold or plan to obtain national and international CPCs. This challenge will require a proactive, effective and resilient organiser who has strong people skills accompanied by the ability to lead.

Please send your CV and cover letter detailing your current remuneration package to recruitment@citycircleuk.com or alternatively send to HR Department, City Circle Limited, West London Coach Centre, North Hyde Gardens, Hayes, Middlesex, UB3 4QT. Closing date Friday 12th October 2012

www.coachandbusweek.com

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