Wednesday May 22, 2013 Issue 1088 | ÂŁ2.95 www.coachandbusweek.com
COACH:
O-licence curtailment for Buzzlines and Bakers Dolphin p8
CONFERENCE:
Technology is top of the agenda at this year's ALBUM p14
Inside this week...
Minibus
Real-time information: The industry has its say
BUS:
Western Greyhound thanks bus industry for its support p6
ILLEGAL LIMOS: The dangers of cut & shut novelty vehicles publicly exposed p48
for recruitm
JOB ADVE ent EVERY WERTS EK
RECRUIT N
OW
p20
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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
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Real-Time Information – it’s all or nothing
I
t was a bit of an eye-opener gathering the industry’s thoughts on this week’s Big Question. Real-time information signage is nothing new – it’s been in place in some parts of the country for over 10 years – but with falling patronage being an issue in most parts of the country outside London, operators and local authorities are under pressure to come up with ways to make travelling by bus more appealing to the general public. On the face of it, RTI seems to be an easy (yet potentially costly) solution. Passenger Focus has highlighted that passengers want better information during delays and disruption. Increasing the provision of RTI signage at bus stops would give passengers more confidence, while RTI mobile apps would help people plan their journeys from the comfort of their home or work. However, there are a number of issues which need to be considered. Firstly, local authorities are strapped for cash as it is. Budgets are being cut across the board, so finding the cash to implement RTI infrastructure won’t be at the top of many to-do lists.
Should operators and transport authorities look to the government’s Local Sustainable Transport Fund and Better Bus Area funding for the answer? Secondly, as pointed out by Peter Bell from Trapeze, if RTI isn’t rolled out comprehensively across vehicles, passengers will be faced with some buses giving out their real-time locations, while others will just have ‘scheduled’ arrival times. This will lead to people not trusting the RTI systems, which would render them pretty useless. Bob Rackley, Commercial Manager at EYMS, also highlights the need for RTI systems to be monitored, which costs time and money, while NCT’s Anthony Carver-Smith makes the valid point that it’s all well and good having an RTI system in place, but if buses are always running late, it does nothing to improve the image of bus travel. I certainly feel a GPRS RTI system fitted to every vehicle, with signage at all bus stops, which is vigilantly monitored, can only bring benefits to the industry. But the possibility of this becoming the norm in the UK any time soon is slim at best. Andrew Cream Deputy Editor
CONTENTS 4
20
43
The latest from across the coach and bus industry in the UK
10
Operators, transport authorities & suppliers give their views on RTI
28
What’s happening in the sector. Plus Comment column
What’s happening across the country’s regions. Plus Events Diary
14
Ways to manage fuel and reduce consumption under the spotlight
36
A lighthearted look at the industry. Plus Office Diary column
A synopsis of the conference – this year centred on technology
New Plaxton Cheetah for Marshall’s Coaches of Leighton Buzzard
All the latest people moves from across the industry
News
Regional News ALBUM 2013
The Big Question Industry Guide
The Big Picture
Minibus
68
Last Stop
69
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.
Driver CPC Training Fully inclusive. No hidden costs
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4 | COACH & BUS WEEK | May 22, 2013
news
“Whilst increasing numbers of customers are happy to use mobile devices, there remain large numbers who continue to look to the bus stop display.” Giles Fearnley FirstGroup
briefly Arriva Midlands has announced entrance tickets for Drayton Manor Park are now being sold on its route 110 buses running from Birmingham to Tamworth, which serves the park. Tickets cost £19.50 for 4+ years, £5 for 2-4 years and free for children under two years. The standard range of Arriva Midlands saver tickets will also be available to accompany them. Keith Myatt, Regional Marketing Communications Manager, Arriva Midlands said: “We hope people will take advantage of the convenience of being able to buy theme park tickets on board our buses, and using one of our saver tickets to get there with ease.” The Reds bus network, operated by Wilts & Dorset, has offered free travel to youngsters who have joined the Prince’s Trust training courses in the Salisbury area through its Key smart card. The Learning Curve is the training firm which manages the Prince’s Trust Team Programme. It offers 16 – 25 year olds who are not currently in education, employment or training, the chance to attend the 12-week personal development courses run throughout the year. Gemma Snell and Neil Foster from Learning Curve accepted the first Key smart cards, which will offer unlimited bus travel for the participants, from Commercial Manager Alex Chutter. More than 65 MPs, bus industry leaders, councillors, think tanks and civil servants met on May 13 at a pteg meeting on ‘The Case for the Urban Bus: Getting on Board for Growth.’ The event discussed the role the bus plays in supporting the UK’s urban economies and how the Spending Review could give the bus a ‘better deal’. The meeting heard from CBT Chief Exec, Stephen Joseph, about the case which pteg, CBT and Greener Journeys have made to the Treasury on the case for a better deal for the urban bus from the Spending Review. The briefing stated that funding for buses comes from more than one Department and claimed there is no cumulative assessment, or understanding, of the impact on buses. www.coachandbusweek.com
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The Big Question p20
Deal struck in Bus Eireann dispute Directors’ pay package takes a hit as drivers overtime pay is reduced, although there is no change to core pay A deal has been agreed between Bus Éireann management and unions following industrial action in the Republic of Ireland. The company said proposed costsaving measures will help protect the future of the company, 2,500 jobs and 300 routes. Under the agreement the cuts would remain
in place for a fixed period of 19 months from June 1 to December 31, 2014 and Minister for Transport Leo Varadkar and Minister of State for Public Transport Alan Kelly welcomed agreement on the €5m (£4.2m) savings plan. The Labour Court initially ruled in February Bus Éireann must make savings of €20m to secure its future – proposing €11m of savings to come from operations and €9m from employee terms and conditions (CBW 1086).
Bus Eireann has been told it must make €20m of savings to secure its future
TC gives clear steer to those looking to run minibuses Individuals looking to run part-time minibus operations must provide proof of their main occupation or else be refused permission to carry passengers. East of England Traffic Commissioner (TC) Richard Turfitt issued this reminder after two applications were turned down this month at separate public inquiries. Both applicants failed to give sufficient evidence of their main employment to prove to the TC they would only be operating minibuses part-time. Anyone applying for a restricted PSV licence – which gives permission to run a maximum of two vehicles with nine to 16 passenger seats – must have another, main occupation. Other
operations require a standard national or international licence, subjected to higher financial tests. They must also be professionally competent. In one of the Public Inquiries (PIs), a Leicester taxi driver’s application to operate two vehicles was considered. The initial application indicated the vehicle would be used two days per week. Correspondence subsequently received by the Office of the Traffic Commissioners claimed the applicant’s main occupation was trading cars on a part-time basis. He also worked delivering goods. The licence, he added, would be used to transport children and elderly people out on day trips at the weekend, averaging between 14
Under the new deal executives at Bus Éireann face a move back of one point on their incremental pay scale. It says the working week will be extended from 36 to 39 hours from June, while self-certified sick leave will be cut from four days to three. Fees paid to directors are also to fall by 20% under the terms of the deal. Overall, executives at the state-owned operator will have to contribute around €1m in pay and non-pay savings as part of the deal which aims generate €5m in reduced costs. For drivers the new agreement on overtime rates and premium payments will be the same as those set out in the Labour Court recommendation which was rejected by staff. This would involve overtime payments for the first two hours set at 1.25 times and 1.5 times for periods thereafter. There would be no change to the Sunday bonus for staff rostered for normal duties. In addition, shift payments will remain the same and core pay will not be touched. Overtime on a Sunday would fall from double time to time and a half. and 18 hours. At the PI on Wednesday, May 1, Mr Turfitt examined the application, including a single page document of accounts referring to a minibus trading name. However, the paperwork was insufficient, with no specific evidence of the applicant’s main occupation. The second case, which came before a Deputy TC on May 9, involved a taxi driver from High Wycombe. The individual was looking to tender for school contracts with two minibuses and reduce his hours as a private hire driver. He predicted minibus work would amount to around 15 hours per week. After hearing further evidence from the applicant, the Deputy TC said she was not satisfied he would meet the criteria for holding a restricted licence. Reminding applicants of
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May 22, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 5
Join the discussion on Twitter by following us at @cbwtweets and find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/coachandbusweek
FTA & RHA query DCPC need for mechanics The FTA and RHA have voiced concerns at the recent advice issued by the DfT regarding garage mechanics driving HGVs & PCVs to MOTs being considered in-scope of the Driver CPC Directive. In a joint letter to the Transport Secretary Stephen Hammond, the associations raised the point that according to industry estimates there are more than 30,000 technicians in the UK, and while a few firms had included these employees in their DCPC programmes, they believed the vast majority have not. They claimed it would be a ‘massive task’ for all of them to achieve full compliance for their staff and deliver ‘relatively little benefit to the industry’. Both associations claimed the directive was never intended to include such activity, referring the minister to the title of the directive 2003/59/EC and the frequent references within the recital which refer to “the profession of driver”. Theo de Pencier, FTA CEO said: “The recent DfT advice appears to run contrary to the department’s stated aim to reduce the regulatory burdens placed on industry.” the requirements for holding a restricted PSV licence, Mr Turfitt said: “Even if someone is intending to operate a minibus as a sideline to their main occupation they have to meet the O-licence requirements, otherwise TCs cannot grant them permission to use those vehicles for passenger transport. “Legitimate and full-time operators in the industry expect to work on a level playing field, especially if they have met additional requirements to obtain a licence. “To hold a restricted licence the applicant must have a main occupation other than the operation of Public Service Vehicles. Applicants need to make sure they have sufficient proof of their main occupation before submitting proposals. A bland statement committing a number of hours is unlikely to be enough to satisfy a TC’s legal requirements are met.”
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Borismasters begin world tour in NYC
Above: A New Bus for London in New York. Below: David Cameron and Prince Harry wave at the crowds from the open platform
Chairman to stand down as FirstGroup profits slump FirstGroup has released its full year results for the year ending March 31, 2013 in which pre-tax profit fell by nearly 37% on last year to £172.4m. The statement also includes a £615m capital raising transaction plan in a bid to support future investment with a plan to pump £1.6bn into five divisions over the next four years. The group also announced that Chairman Martin Gilbert plans to step down on the appointment of a successor. In addition, the Board proposed that no final dividend be paid in respect of the year to March 31,
2013, nor an interim dividend for the year to March 31, 2014. Notably, FirstGroup completed its portfolio reshaping with £100m of disposals, including the sale of London depots announced in April. Revenue for the UK Bus division was £1,128.2m (2012: £1,157.2m) and like-for-like passenger revenue growth was 2.4% (2012: 1.6%). Underlying operating profit was £90.7m (2012: £134.4m). The group cited the fall in Government
FirstGroup agreed the sale of most of its London in operations April
HRH Prince Harry and Prime Minister David Cameron kicked off the GREAT Britain Campaign global tour on Tuesday, May 14, for which TfL has leant two NBfLs. Prince Harry and Prime Minister Cameron launched the tour at Milk Studios in New York City, arriving in style on a special edition GREAT London-liveried Borismaster. It marked the first stop of a global tour which will take in four continents and 16 countries, including key markets such as India, Russia and South Korea, over the next 12 months. London’s Transport Commissioner Sir Peter Hendy CBE said: “Our red buses are recognised the world over as an iconic symbol. This trip echoes a pioneering journey made by three London buses to North America 60 years ago. It’s fitting that the NBfL, which was designed, engineered and manufactured in the UK, has been chosen to fly the flag for great British design as part of this prestigious campaign.” Wright Group Managing Director Mark Nodder said: “The tour aims to generate sales of the vehicle, with UK Trade & Investment teams working with Wrightbus to market the NBfL to potential customers.” funding available to the industry as well as external cost pressures, particularly fuel and pension costs, for the reduction. FirstGroup’s CEO, Tim O’Toole said: “Through these actions, combined with our scale and expertise, we are positioning the business for improved growth and returning it to a profile of consistent returns and cash generation. The real long-term opportunity for us, however, arises from our business recovery programmes. We have clear plans in place for all of our divisions, and while there remains significant work to be done, our confidence continues to grow as a result of the progress to date. “On behalf of the Board and our 120,000 employees, I’d like to pay tribute to Martin and thank him for his outstanding contribution to the company. Under his stewardship First has grown to become one of the world’s leading transport firms.” www.coachandbusweek.com
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6 | COACH & BUS WEEK | May 22, 2013
27
news › BUSeS
Number of limousines and novelty vehicles seized in London over the past year after they were found to be illegal
briefly Reading Buses hosted a bus surgery for Bus Users UK today (May 22) and local people were invited to ‘drop in’ and have their say. Bus Users UK is visiting the Thames Valley area to talk with representatives from Reading Buses, First, Thames Valley Travel, Reading Borough Council and Fleet Buses. James Freeman, CEO of Reading Buses, said: “We are extremely privileged to be asked by Bus Users UK to host one of their surgeries. We view it as essential that bus companies engage in such ways with their customers to ensure their voices are heard.” Bus Users UK’s Gillian Merron said: “People can become members of Bus Users UK and work with us to get the voice of passengers heard where it counts. This will help us get a better deal for buses and their users.” Five leather-effect seated Optare Solo SRs have been introduced to Nottingham City Transport’s 2 and 3 services. Each bus comes with an audio-visual next stop information system. Passing Trent Bridge Cricket Ground and serving the City and County Grounds, the audio announcements will also benefit cricket and football ‘away’ fans visiting the city to support their team, as well as the blind and partially sighted. Morebus/Wilts & Dorset is investing over £10,000 to revamp its bus stop presentations. Examples of the new layout stops can be found near Bournemouth Square at Gervis place. As the stops at the square use bus shelters, there is more room for promotional material such as a large network map and much more travel information about the destinations such as Poole, Salisbury, Wimborne and Swanage available. Some information is translated for foreign visitors for the first time and, much as a shop window, services such as ticketless apps for mobile phones are promoted to allow cashless travel. The date and venue of next year’s ALBUM Conference has been confirmed. It will take place in Murrayfield, Scotland between May 12 and 14.
Industry rallies round Western Greyhound after arson attack Hired in buses have come from seven operators and two suppliers, as far away as Blackpool and Norfolk Western Greyhound MD Mark Howarth has revealed the extent of the support his company received after the disastrous arson attack at its Summercourt bus depot. The fire was started around 0100hrs on May 13 at the bottom of the yard in one of the VOR buses and very quickly spread to adjacent buses due to a very strong wind. Mark said: “I was phoned by a neighbour at 0120 to say there was a fire in the depot. I got up and immediately left for the depot. As I approached, I knew it was serious as I could see flames leaping high in the air. “When I arrived, three fire crews were already trying to control the fire and more appliances had been requested. “The emergency services concentrated on saving the buildings, workshops, fuel tank and adjacent houses and none were affected by the fire. “Miraculously, just as the fire had reached the nearest bus to the workshops, the wind suddenly dropped and the fire services got the fire under control.” Western Greyhound (WG) lost 35
vehicles: two E400 double-decks, four Dennis Tridents, eight Volvo Olympians, three Mercedes-Benz Vario/Beavers, 11 Optare Solos, five Mercedes Citaros (four of which were Truro Park and Ride liveried buses). 14 out of the fleet’s 19 double-deckers were destroyed. In addition, the Dennis Javelin driver training bus and heritage Bristol VR 259 were destroyed. None of the other heritage vehicles were affected. Mark continued: “By 0430, we had the core team assembled and the Business Continuity Plan swung into action. Once we had an understanding of how many buses were saved, we prioritised what we would operate. Arriving staff were aghast at the destruction, some clearly very emotional. People were stunned that while buses were still on fire in the depot, buses were leaving to go out on service. “We worked closely with the media and were able to inform passengers of the situation. Our social media went straight into action so we could keep passengers up to speed in real time. Despite losing a third of our fleet, we lost no journeys on the Truro Park and Ride, most main line routes or school contracts. Temporary schedules were immediately introduced for staff and buses, so
The charred remains of a Volvo Olympian double-decker
that by Wednesday, all major routes had a reasonable level of service. “Within hours, phone calls and messages were coming from all over the industry, not just with messages but with practical offers of help and buses. Very quickly, buses were arriving at Summercourt from other operators and, once inspected and prepared, were straight out into service. We soon had a substantial percentage of the operation running normally.” Hired in buses have come from Stagecoach (Darts and Solo), Blackpool Transport (Solos), Norfolk Green (Solos), Anglian (Beavers), Carmel Coaches (Beavers), Summercourt Travel (B6), NCT (Solos), together with demonstrators from Optare (Solo) and Evobus (Citaro) and others are on their way. Marc Reddy immediately offered free acceptance of WG tickets on First buses for displaced passengers. “This was a wonderful gesture, much appreciated by the public,” said Howarth. Mark wanted to thank the industry, trade, suppliers and many others for their absolutely amazing support: “It just shows, that although the Competition Commission would like to us competing against each other, when the chips are down, everyone pulls together. I would also like to thank all of our staff who have been marvellous. Everyone has pulled together and they want to see WG normalised as quickly as possible.” Passengers have also been very supportive and there have been hundreds of positive comments on the company’s Facebook site – www.facebook.com/wgbus WG is now running close to normal, and now the situation has stabilised, attention is turning to the longer term replacements. Police are treating this as an arson attack and anyone with information should contact the police on 101, quoting crime reference number GC/13/151.
www.coachandbusweek.com
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9
Number of ADL Enviro400 Hybrids delivered to NatEx Dundee
New Kent Enviro200 �leet for Stagecoach Stagecoach in East Kent has invested £3m in 27 new Enviro 200s which were launched on May 10. The uneviling took place at the Royal Esplanade in Ramsgate and was attended by the two Thanet MPs and local mayors & councillors. The new buses operate in Margate, Ramsgate and Broadstairs on the so called Thanet Loop. The vehicles feature a new livery and have Euro 5 specification engines. After the last frequency increase on the Loop in October, buses now run around every seven minutes Mondays to Saturdays and every 10 minutes on Sundays. Stagecoach is letting local residents try the service for free by posting out 18,000 free travel vouchers, with a further 37,000 half price
May 22, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 7
£95m
Amount of funding provided from the Green Bus Fund round four, with grant allocations to be announced soon
Industry share prices at the close of the Stock Exchange on Monday, May 20. BAE Systems saw the greatest proportional rise, while FirstGroup saw the greatest proportional drop. Most figures obtained from www.iii.co.uk
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Stagecoach showed off the uniquely-liveried Enviro200s in style travel vouchers being distributed to households around Thanet. Paul Southgate, MD of Stagecoach in East Kent, said: “The number of passengers using the Loop has more than doubled to over 4.5m per year since its introduction in 2004 due to us continually improving the service
by increasing the frequency and the number of buses on the route. Our efforts are supported by Thanet District Council and Kent County Council through our QP. “The new bus fleet is great news for Loop passengers as the new interiors provide more room for wheelchair users and pushchairs.”
New signage system for blind Record trialled in Wolverhampton passenger numbers A pioneering new signage system for the blind and visually impaired in London has begun trials at the Centrooperated Wolverhampton Bus Station. The Ariadne tactile map ‘talks’ to people to tell them where they are within the station when they press symbols on the board. The map shows local features such as offices, toilets, walls and doors in Braille. It also features an audio system which enables users to establish where they are in the station and to calculate how to get to where they want to. The map has been developed by Nexus Alpha Low Power Systems of Rochester, Kent. Patrons of the Beacon Centre for the Blind in Sedgley have been brought in to help the development team from Centro and Nexus Alpha. They will give their perspective and make suggestions where they think the map can be improved for users. Ariadne is fitted with technology automatically triggered by a person using a keyfob issued by the RNIB. The fobs can be used anywhere in the country to activate audio in RTI stands which have the facility.
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SHARE WATCH
The Ariadne tactile map at Wolverhampton Bus Station With the Ariadne system, a series of beeps enables the user to firstly locate the machine. They can then explore the map by touch using raised, interactive symbols which can either be explained in Braille or conventional type, or tapped for an audio description. Nexus COO Julian Coleman commented: “The Wolverhampton trial will help us refine and improve the system so that one day it can be rolled out across the country, helping the blind and visually-impaired find their way around. “This is the first system of its kind in the country and the help of the Beacon Centre and Centro has been invaluable.”
A record-breaking week on London’s bus network has seen passenger numbers reach their highest level since before 1960. With an estimated 49.5m bus journeys made between April 28 and May 4 there are now as many trips being made in the capital each week as in the rest of England combined. The annual figure of around 2.3bn passengers is 60% above the levels which were seen in 2000 and comes against the backdrop of London’s continued population rise. The figure grew by a million between 2001 and 2011 and is expected to rise by a further million over the next decade. Leon Daniels, TfL’s MD of Surface Transport, said: “It’s essential we continue to invest to maintain an extensive, affordable and accessible bus fleet. Like passenger numbers, satisfaction is also currently seeing record highs, but we can only sustain this if we continue to invest in the network.”
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8 | COACH & BUS WEEK | May 22, 2013
news › coaches
briefly National Express’ senior executive team took to the road at the start of May for a tour to meet frontline staff. Between May 6 and 10, the team visited around 40 sites by coach, having face-to-face conversations with employees. UK Coach MD Tom Stables visited Heathrow Airport Coach Station to see the operation in action during peak hours, Finance Director Richard Newman went to Bristol to meet the recently-voted NX ‘Team of the Year’ and Business Development Director Bruce Alexander was quite literally sent to Coventry. Tom Stables said: “We’ve never heard of another business which sends its exec team out on the move in this way. Frontline staff are our eyes and ears on the ground we think our desire to engage with staff face-to-face and get to grips with what matters to them is what really sets us apart.”
Buzzlines has licence reduced by TC Cap of 28 vehicles put in place until TC is happy improvements are being sustained over time Buzzlines Travel has been prevented from expanding after Traffic Commissioner for London and the South East Nick Denton told directors they needed to focus their energy on preventing Drivers’ Hours offences. The TC reduced from 35 to 28 the number of vehicles the Hythebased firm is allowed to operate, after hearing the company’s drivers had: n made false records of their driving duty; n failed to make records of their duty;
n failed to take sufficient daily rests; and n failed to take the necessary breaks. 13 drivers were convicted at Margate Magistrates’ Court in May 2012. Buzzlines was fined £44,000 for failing to produce some records of the hours its drivers had driven. A further 34 offences were taken into consideration during the prosecution. In addition, a director of the firm, Nigel Busbridge, was personally fined £9,000 for his neglect in the role. VOSA carried out an investigation in 2010 looking at the activities of the firm’s drivers. After examining tachographs a
The A453 Finger Farm Roundabout near East Midlands Airport will be closed overnight from May 28 to June 1. Resurfacing is being carried out from 2200 to 0600hrs each night. Traffic signals at the A45/ A46 Stivichall Festival Roundabout near Coventry are being refurbished. Work, which was due to start yesterday (May 21), will last around a week. Overnight lane closures between 1915 and 0630hrs are in place on the roundabout, at the junction of the A45/A46 (Stonebridge Hightway) and the exit slip road from the A46 to the west-bound section of the A45. National Express and Ryanair have announced record booking levels have been achieved following the tie up between the two firms. The deal enables travellers to book coach transfers at the same time as booking their flight on Ryanair.com, as well as onboard each flight. Jonathan Pollard, NX’s Head of Sales and Business Development, said: “We’re pleased to see our partnership is proving such a success. This means it’s now simpler than ever for people to book affordable airport travel.” www.coachandbusweek.com
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Buzzlines has implemented improvements since it was fined in 2010
Licence reduction for Bakers Dolphin after PI The Traffic Commissioner for the West of England, Sarah Bell, has made an order to temporarily reduce the O-licence authorisation of Bakers Dolphin Coach Travel by 10 vehicles. Her decision, which will take effect on May 23 and end on July 11, follows a Public Inquiry into convictions for tachograph offences. Directors from J N Baker Ltd appeared before the TC to examine a prosecution by VOSA, which concluded in 2012. The company had pleaded guilty to 11 counts of tachograph
offences, as a ‘user’, with a further 33 convictions recorded against their drivers. Bell also heard evidence from the agency on the operator’s vehicle maintenance standards, including a wheel loss incident, which she noted the firm had conducted a detailed and professional investigation into. After hearing evidence from the directors, the TC concluded improvements outlined by the company were likely to be implemented. Making the order to limit the
VOSA Traffic Examiner concluded the operator’s system for managing Drivers’ Hours was not rigorous enough. The company had identified employees who committed infringements, he noted, but did not formally follow this up with them. The operator’s representative said the percentage of offending was at 7-8% of all the records checked by VOSA. His client accepted there had been poor management of the driver conduct and poor planning. Busbridge told the TC he had delegated his duties as Transport Manager to two individuals, without really checking they were doing their jobs properly. He had not realised there was a problem until spring 2010. He had subsequently resigned from the post of Transport Manager in January 2012 and appointed Scott Morley, a qualified Transport Manager from the Royal Logistics Corps, to bring about improvements. This had led to a reduction in offences, with drivers now given additional training and, where necessary, disciplinary action being taken. In addition, external audits were carried out in May 2012 and March 2013, which concluded the number of vehicles which could be operated to 75 from 85, Bell said she intended to prevent expansion by the business in the short term. She also dealt with the firm’s Transport Manager, Max Fletcher, the professionally qualified and competent person employed to oversee vehicle, licence and driver standards. Noting he had undertaken refresher Transport Manager training in December 2012, the Commissioner said no further action was required. However, she reminded Mr Fletcher there should be no further falling of standards. The company also agreed to nominate two additional Transport Managers by May 30.
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“I hate speaking to answer machines, I think most people do, so why is it, the very last option you hear is the one which would put you in touch with a human?” Sir Brian Souter Stagecoach company’s system for monitoring Drivers’ Hours was now fully fit-forpurpose. Denton also noted evidence from six of the firm’s drivers. Some suggested it had been difficult to complete work schedules within the Drivers’ Hours rules when the offending occurred. All agreed Morley had brought much-needed discipline and rigour to the process of ensuring drivers stayed within legal driving and working time limits. Making an order to reduce the number of vehicles the company can operate from 35 to 28 indefinitely, the TC said: “[There were] many instances of drivers failing by a wide margin to take sufficient breaks or rest, with the safety of passengers and other road users therefore put at risk.” He was reasonably confident the operator could be trusted to maintain the improvements put into place. Reducing the O-licence authorisation to 28 vehicles, he added, would cap the company’s operations at roughly their current level and prevent it from expanding further until he was sure that the improvements in the firm’s supervision of its Drivers’ Hours were being sustained over time. “I want to send a strong signal of disapproval that the company’s management allowed oversight to drift throughout much of 2010,” he said. Former Transport Manager Nigel Busbridge had not lost his repute as a result of the VOSA investigation but it had been left in a “battered condition”, Denton concluded.
The introduction of the app has reduced the number of calls the firm receives
Marshalls’ launches iPhone app & web ticketing Marshalls Coaches is significantly improving its offering on its London commuter services, with the unveiling of a new app and the introduction of web ticketing and greater variety and flexibility with ticket types. Commenting on the app, which has been developed by Traffilog, Dean Marshall told CBW: “It’s great because it reduces the number of calls we receive and more importantly, it means passengers are in control on the ground. “It only works on iPhones at the moment but we’re hoping Traffilog will develop an app for Android devices in due course. We have to update the vehicle allocation
Irish Citylink: new brand & Galway-Dublin Airport route Irish Citylink has launched a new Airport Direct coach service between Galway and Dublin Airport. Operating under a newly launched brand, eireagle.com, the services bypass Dublin City and deliver time savings for travellers of up to 30 minutes on journeys between Dublin Airport and Galway Coach Station and 15 minutes on journeys in the opposite direction. The eight daily eireagle.com trips are in addition to Irish Citylink’s existing Express services between Galway and Dublin City & Airport. The eireagle.com services
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are operated by a fleet of luxury Van Hool TX16s which provide passengers with free WiFi, air conditioning, reclining seats and spacious legroom. “These new services shorten journeys between Galway and Dublin Airport to just two and a half hours,” explained David Conway, Business Operations Manager at Irish Citylink. “Coaches run between Galway and Dublin Airport using the M6 and M50 motorways and do not go through Dublin City, offering a more comfortable, direct and quicker journey time.”
data on the Traffilog website each morning. It only takes second – we just change the relevant vehicles to make their reporting data accessible to the app users.” The family-run operator has also introduced online booking, using a system created by Knutsford-based IRIS Ticketing. Dean took up the story: “We still accept cash and cheques but it going online will help to reduce cash handling and stop dwell time. People are increasingly happy to pay for goods and services online so this is a logical step for us. We’ve stopped taking cheques for day tickets as it reduces the risk of them bouncing.
“Thanks to the ease of use for web ticketing, we’ve increased the range of ticket types, which has led to greater flexibility for our passengers. For example, the weekly tickets used to be Monday to Friday but now they can select from a calendar online from say Wednesday to Wednesday. In a similar vein, we’ve introduced a ticket for 10 single journeys, which can be used anytime up to the end of the calendar year. All this should benefit passengers and increase the attractiveness of our services.” CBW understands IRIS’ system is also used by Arriva on its Green Line commuter coach services. Asked for his opinion on it, Dean replied: “It seems very good because it’s not complex and doesn’t involve spending a vast amount in development costs. When a system is untried and untested from your customers’ perspective, developing your own technology is a huge gamble due to the outlay involved. While I’m sure people will take to it, the proof is of course in the pudding.” In addition to private hire, the CoachMarque-standard firm runs two commuter routes. The 771 links Linslade with central London, via Leighton Buzzard, Hockliffe, Dunstable and Markyate while the 772 serves Houghton Regis, Leagrave, Dunstable and Markyate.
Download the app from http://tinyurl.com/cnwf8y4 or via the link at www.marshallscoaches.co.uk/pages/commutertravel.php. Visit IRIS’ website at http://www.iristicketing.co.uk. Call Marshalls on 01525 376077
Irish Citylink celebrate the launch of the new coaches and service www.coachandbusweek.com
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news › REGIONAL
NORTH
Plans to transform Oxford Road in Manchester with priority for buses, pedestrians and cyclists are being unveiled to the public this week. Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) and Manchester City Council are holding a five-week long public consultation on the “Cross City Bus Priority” plans from May 22 to June 26. The proposals also include measures to improve bus travel in Portland Street and Chinatown. TfGM says the scheme will allow shorter bus journey times on more reliable, punctual cross-city services which can travel from a wider area through Manchester city centre. Residents and businesses are being asked for their say on plans to make sections of Oxford Road available for use by buses, taxis (hackney cabs), emergency vehicles and cycles only. Changes to traffic movements in the city centre would also keep some buses separate from general traffic to allow more reliable services. There are also plans to introduce new and upgraded bus stops. Councillor Andrew Fender, Chairman of the TfGM Committee, said: “With traffic levels rising, it’s crucial we make sure people can easily get around our city by more sustainable transport – in this case, by bus, bike or on foot. “The bus priority package is one of the largest investments in the Greater Manchester bus network in decades. “Giving buses priority will allow operators to introduce services that cross through the city centre free from traffic, without need for passengers to change service. “Oxford Road is one of the busiest bus routes in Europe and we want it to offer a European-style travel experience, not just for passengers, but pedestrians and cyclists. “I encourage everyone who lives, works in or travels through our city centre to take a look at these plans and have their say.” Councillor Nigel Murphy, Executive Member for Environment for Manchester City Council, said: “The city is growing and we need to make sure our transport system supports this growth. “These plans will boost investment along the routes and support emerging business and commercial centres. They allow full access to businesses along the route and general traffic will be 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. uses Thomas Street West, Junction Road and Charlesworth Street. The extra journeys to Grand Central and Stockport College run during the daytime, Monday to Saturday.
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accommodated on parallel routes. “The changes we are proposing are essential to delivering a more sustainable transport system connecting people with employment, education, health, leisure and shopping and providing real alternatives to the car.” First met hundreds of customers in Bolton last Tuesday (May 14) to listen to their views about services in the area. A new ADL Enviro400 was parked in Bolton Town Square where First managers answered questions from the public. The event is part of First’s developing customer engagement programme, enabling passengers to meet management teams faceto-face and discuss what they like about the services and where First can improve still further. The operator has recently lowered its fares in Greater Manchester, as well as running local fare initiatives in other parts of Bolton including Breightmet and Withins. It is now keen to get feedback on these new lower fares as well as hearing about service delivery, vehicle reliability and customer service. Matt Rawlinson, Depot Manager for First in Bolton, said: “This was a great opportunity for passengers and potential bus users to speak directly with managers responsible for buses in Bolton. We value what people tell us and feedback from the travelling public is always
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welcome to ensure we can improve the delivery of our services.” Stagecoach’s 192 service between Manchester, Stockport and Hazel Grove has been boosted with six extra journeys every hour now able to run through the town centre and on to Stockport College. The improvement comes after TfGM and Stockport Council opened a new bus turnaround south of Stockport town centre. Councillor Andrew Fender, Chairman of the TfGM Committee, said: “Thanks to our successful bid to the government’s Better Bus Fund, we have been able to make yet another improvement to benefit the popular 192 bus service. “Our QP with Stagecoach Manchester and the local councils is delivering real benefits for passengers and I’m pleased visitors to the town centre and students at Stockport College are benefiting from an improved service.” Christopher Bowles, Stagecoach Manchester MD, said: “We welcome the recent opening of the new bus turnaround facility in Stockport. As well as continuing to invest in our fleet, we are committed to working in partnership with TfGM and the local council to provide excellent service, increased convenience and a greener way of travelling for our customers. We hope the recent improvements to the 192 route are recognised as a clear demonstration of this commitment.” The new bus turnaround facility
After recent monitoring exercises, Wardle Transport has highlighted very low patronage on a number of services. The Arrivaowned operator is withdrawing some services, stating “we cannot afford to operate these services without any subsidy”. Stoke-on-Trent City Council and Staffordshire County Council are aware of the firm’s decision to withdraw the following services: 44 (Hanley – Stanley), 45 (Hanley – Abbey Hulton), 60 (Hanley – Norton) and 80 (Hanley – Eaton Park Circular). In addition, Sunday buses will be withdrawn on services 3A (Hanley – Baddeley Green Circular), 18 (Hanley – Leek), 22 (Newcastle – Longton), 38 (Hanley – Birches Head Circular) and 41 (Hanley – Newcastle) along with the Saturday buses which will be withdrawn on services 58/58A (Hanley – Newcastle and Hanley – Clayton Village). Service 58 is diverted to run the same route as service 58A between Stoke and Hanley. A Monday to Friday departure at 0645hrs on service 164 running between Hanley and Market Drayton will no longer be operated. Changes will come in on June 2. Keith Myatt, Communications Manager for Wardle Transport, said: “We know there are a number of customers who will be disappointed to hear their local bus service are being withdrawn although dialogue continues with the local authorities. Wardle Transport cannot afford to operate these services without any subsidy.”
EAST
Sleafordian Coaches’ SL07 service has won the county title of School Bus Route of the Year, following a nomination by their driver Andy McCall. The accolade praises students who use the service for their behaviour as well as the driver and operator. The annual award, given by Lincolnshire County Council as part of their Max Respect scheme, was judged from a list of 37 nominations submitted by drivers and operators throughout Lincolnshire. Max Respect is “a toolbox
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of good ideas to help promote, encourage and reward good behaviour on home-to-school transport”. SL07 carries girls from Kesteven and Sleaford High School’s years 7-11, along with boys and girls from their 6th form, from Sleaford to Helpringham via Heckington, Great Hale and Little Hale. Regular driver on this route Andy McCall admitted sometimes he had to turn round to check he was carrying passengers as they were always so well behaved. Sleafordian Business Development Manager Ian Tomlinson said: “We believe it’s important we support these awards because it gives drivers and operators an opportunity to give praise to the young people who consistently use transport responsibly.” Assistant Head of Kesteven and Sleaford High School Cate Tipper added: “We are delighted the good behaviour of our pupils has been recognised and that the school’s values are extended into everyday life especially on school transport.”
DATES FOR YOUR DIARY SOUTH EAST
Yellow Buses is backing the Blooming Beautiful Campaign run by the Bournemouth Coastal BID, designed to boost trade in Westbourne, Southbourne, Boscombe, West Cliff and East Cliff. The aims are to promote the town and show locals and tourists there is more to Bournemouth than just the centre, and encourage them to visit other coastal parts as well when they are shopping. Des Simmons of Bournecoast and Chairman of Bournemouth Coastal BID said: “Yellow Buses became a voluntary contributor because they understand the benefit of bringing businesses together for the greater good. “It is crucial to have the support of a company like Yellow Buses because we want people to explore more of Bournemouth, and this is easily done on a bus. “We are in our first year of funding and the promotion is ongoing, helping bring more people to our town’s coast, from Southbourne through to Westbourne. “
First Aberdeen is holding an open day at its King Street depot on June 30, 2013, between 1100 and 1600hrs
2013 n May 26-30 UITP Congress & Exhibition. Palexpo, Geneva. www.uitp.org. +(00)32 2673 610 n June 2 Clacton Bus Rally & Running Day, Clacton Factory Outlet, Essex. Classic and current vehicles. Entry forms & more details available at http://www.
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n June 4-5 Young Bus Managers Network Conference. Marriott Bristol City Centre Hotel, Lower Castle Street, Bristol. www. youngbusmanagers.org.uk n June 11-13 ATCO Summer Conference. Merseytravel HQ, Liverpool. www.atco.org.uk n June 16 Peak Park Preserved Bus Gathering. Rowsley South Station, Peak Rail Heritage Railway, nr. Matlock, Derbyshire. www.
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National Express (NX) Dundee has launched nine new ADL Enviro400 hybrids in a £2.8m investment, part-funded by the Scottish Government’s GBF2 and Dundee City Council. The city’s Lord Provost Bob Duncan joined councillors, MSPs and other community leaders at a reception on May 10 to welcome the fleet. NX Dundee is the only firm from GBF2 to choose ADL to fulfil its order. The council invested £45,000 (£5,000 for each bus). The vehicles will operate mainly on Service 5 between Ninewells and Broughty Ferry. There are also plans to introduce next-stop announcements onto the hybrids, which will benefit the visually impaired tourists. Colin Robertson, CEO of ADL, said: “We are delighted to be working with NX on this initiative and to see even more of our hybrids being introduced in Scotland. Greener, low emission vehicles represent the future and, through forward-thinking companies like NX, Scotland is certainly putting itself in the vanguard of this transport revolution.” MD of NX Dundee Phil Smith said: “I’m delighted to say we’re now ready to launch these Scottish-built buses onto the city streets. I’m confident our customers will enjoy travelling in them, and I know we’ll all benefit from an improvement in air quality, thanks to their low emissions. “This is the future of public transport and we’re proud to be at the forefront of that here in Dundee.”
n June 16 Swansea Festival of Transport. Free to enter & attend. Call organiser Ashley Lovering on 07814958379 or email swanseatransport@aol.com. Visit www.ntfwswansea.co.uk. n June 30 First Aberdeen Open Day. King Street Depot, Aberdeen. 11-1600hrs. More details at www. firstgroup.com/ukbus/aberdeen/ or by email on joe.mackie@ firstgroup.com.
Court, Sussex Street, Winchester. To book onto the event or for further information contact passenger transportprojects@hants.gov.uk n July 14 The Annual Peterborough Bus & Commercial Vehicle Rally. Sacrewell Farm (A47/ A1 junction). Free entry. 07828 754412 or 01462 626750 n July 21 Alton Bus Rally. Anstey Park, Anstey Lane, Alton, Hants. www.altonbusrally.org.uk n September 7-8 Bus Driver of the Year Final. Blackpool. Call 01303 251462. www.bdoy.co.uk n September 8 Bus & Coach Wales 2013. Rhyd y Car Leisure Centre, Merthyr Tydfil n September 9-10 CPT Scotland Annual Conference. Crieff Hydro Hotel, Perthshire. Visit www.cpt-uk. org or call CPT Scotland on 0131 272 215 n September 10 Association of Trainers AGM. 1400hrs, Wembley. For details call 01797 344251. n September 21 Metrobus 30th anniversary depot open days. Orpington, Croydon & Crawley. www.metrobus.co.uk/metrobus30 n September 22 Showbus 2013. Long Marston Airfield, Warwickshire. www.showbus.com n October 2-3 Coach & Bus Live 2013. NEC, Birmingham. www. coachandbuslive.com
n June 30 Ringwood Bus Rally. Scenic rides and memorabilia stall. For details call the Wessex Transport Society on 01202 293245. www. wessextransportsociety.co.uk
n October 20 Oxford Bus Museum Bus & Coach Vehicle Rally. 01993 883 617. www.oxfordbusmuseum. org.uk
n July 5 Hampshire County Council Public Bus Supplier Engagement Morning. Elizabeth II
Send your event details to gareth.evans@ coachandbusweek.com
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ALBUM CONFERENCE 2013
Technology creates new opportunities Martin Cole reports from what was thought to be the 28th ALBUM event which was hosted this year by Nottingham City Transport at the Belton Woods Hotel, Grantham
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he theme for this year’s ALBUM Conference was: ‘Technology – get on board the route to success’. As can be expected from the title much of the content centred on telematics, ticketing, onboard WiFi and use of social media for engagement with customers. Following a brief welcome and introduction from Nottingham City Transport (NCT) MD Mark Fowles the conference was opened by NCT’s Chairman and also City Councillor Brian Parbutt. He recalled early days as a councillor when local authorities were being encouraged to build and develop their cities for the car – to the extent of multi-lane highways running through the city. Although there was now a push to make cars much more environmentally friendly, it still created a problem of where to park them – and this was a key issue for most towns and why he saw a place for a strong public transit system at the heart of transport in the city.
Sir Brian Souter Indicating he felt slightly out of place with little understanding of ‘all this new technology’ Sir Brian acknowledged there were many innovators among the audience who were achieving success with new ideas and he confirmed it was “easy to get growth with the right policies in place”. Looking back, he said there had been a lot of change since he started out as a conductor 41 years ago. “It was a strange world in those days,” he said. “There was no customer service, ridiculous fare pricing, no offers and no advertising or www.coachandbusweek.com
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marketing. The industry was slow to apply business methods. “Stagecoach brought some new thinking in when we launched Magic Bus – particularly as it was accompanied by a Magic Rabbit character. We had done the unheard of too when we distributed timetables and fare pricing to all residences along the route to ensure people were aware and we had promotional events with vinyl signage and gave away branded mugs, pens and other items – we even had sticks of rock made. This activity gained us 18 minutes of exposure on prime-time TV and lots of coverage on local radio and in the local press. It cost us £5,700 in total – quite a significant investment for a family budget – but look what developed from it.” From his earliest days in the industry, Sir Brian said he was amazed no one ever wanted to answer telephone calls and to deal with enquiries. “Answering calls is vital,” he affirmed. “Phones remain a key instrument today, especially as they can access the internet for information and be used to buy tickets or make all sorts of payments. I hate speaking to answer machines, I think most people do, so why is it, the very last option you hear is the one which would put you in touch with a human? “Telemarketing can also be useful for finding out what issues are of most concern to people and it’s clear a high proportion believe it is important to use the car less. However, you have to look carefully at who you are trying to persuade to make a modal shift. A facility to carry bikes is extremely attractive to cyclists – for example.” Turning to computers, Sir Brian said: “They are a fantastic
Labour’s Shadow Transport Minister Yvonne Fovargue
Sir Brian stressed the importance of a human voice on the telephone
“The social networking side is really great. You get to know exactly what people think and you can respond accordingly. WiFi is also becoming a huge attraction. The industry must engage with this change and move forward.” Sir Brian Souter Stagecoach
development but they can foul things up. We got someone to develop the software for our Megabus operation. It cost £18,000 and worked absolutely fine for a while but once it really took off and turned into a £200m business we began to have serious problems. They guy who developed it wasn’t always easy to reach and the programme was all in his head. “We had a huge disaster with the launch of Polski Bus because the build-up to the launch of the website and cheap or free fares had attracted huge interest. It was flooded as it opened and crashed. Then we found we were unable to issue tickets because the service needed switching on in Edinburgh – and the people there had forgotten the time in Poland was an hour ahead. It was embarrassing and costly – we had to issue masses of free tickets. “Despite some problems, internet products offer a major advantage. They are a great sales tool currently generating 10% of sales – and this will certainly grow. The social networking side is really great. You get to know exactly what people think and you can respond accordingly. WiFi is also becoming a huge attraction. The industry must engage with this change and move forward.”
Yvonne Fovargue Recently appointed by Labour as Shadow Transport Minister, Yvonne Fovargue said transport was about people and their needs and buses were clearly the most used form of public transport while being vital to those on lower incomes, and students and young people. She was sure these passengers needed to be retained but claimed the industry wouldn’t do it unless it delivered a good service and provided them with a good experience. She also recognised the industry was a huge employer and a major contributor to the economy, carrying more shoppers than any other form of transport, but expressed concern as many services were being lost as support was being cut back. She felt technical advances would make services far more attractive and was highly supportive of next stop announcements and the huge benefit they would provide for blind or partially sighted passengers and as a confidence booster for infrequent travellers or first time visitors to an area. Recognising there were big
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differences between London and elsewhere, she said it was not good when services outside the capital were failing and advocated the implementation of Statutory QCs to ensure frequency and pricing – although she maintained she didn’t want it forced upon operators and would sooner they take on SQCs willingly but she believed it should be easier for local authorities to require them. She believed this would ensure wider competition than provided by just the ‘big few.’ She said she would be keen to get industry feedback on this which she could channel back into government offices.
Anthony Smith CEO of Passenger Focus Anthony Smith asked: “Do your passengers trust you?” He said it was clear there was much public distrust in the rail sector and Passenger Focus believed far higher levels of trust were shown by passengers in their bus providers. He suggested three main elements which helped strengthen this trust as: engagement; delivery; and transparency. Mr Smith outlined Passenger Focus’ aim as ‘to make a difference’. It researched passenger priorities to help operators come to decisions. It was, essentially, pro-passenger, but passengers would always choose the mode best suited to their particular needs for many varied reasons. He felt SQCs paid little attention to the needs of passengers and the recent survey asking people what they thought about their current services and journey experience showed general good performance and very high levels of customer satisfaction. “Some areas,” he quantified, “Have a broad range of results. Commuters in particular are tough to please and good results in this area are really an achievement. Running to time is a major contributor to high satisfaction. Passenger Focus is using these results to encourage partnerships between operators and local authorities. Recently Centro and National Express bought into the survey and have used the information to drive up ridership. We want to establish this information as a benchmark. “Key areas for operators to concentrate on are fare pricing and value for money. Publish the fares so people can see what it will cost. Abolish exact fares – it’s
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Adrian de Courcey trumpeted the benefits of using telematics
“You need the ‘carrot and stick’ to gain driver ‘buy in’ and don’t fail to act on the data you receive. If it is not used, or it is used wrongly, drivers lose confidence.” Adrian de Courcey Travel de Courcey
an unfriendly practice. Smartcard transactions seem very popular and likely to attract passenger growth. It points to a good potential future for the industry yet operators seem reticent to sing their own praises. It can be done through social media directly to the target audience. “Engagement,” he said. “In particular social media, is a great medium with huge potential. There is a passenger voice out there on sites like Facebook and Twitter and operators must see and hear public opinion and then act on it. They also provide a great opportunity for cost-effective marketing by making people aware of fares and offers.” He pointed out most people had very little idea about the industry or how it was structured and operators needed to bear this in mind when speaking to or with customers.
Adrian De Courcey Adrian de Courcey chose ‘Telematics – con or control?’ as his subject and it was immediately clear which side he had come
ADL displayed its Enviro 350 Hybrid single-decker demonstrator
Bus & Coach World had this refurbed 2002-registered DAF DB250 for sale
out on. He said: “The benefits, in practice, show we cut fuel consumption by 6.9% in the first 12 months followed by a further 2.4% in our second year. I can confirm it is certainly helping to mitigate costs. On top of this we are experiencing lower running costs due to less wear and tear, greater tyre life, reduced maintenance costs and significantly less accident damage. The latter has now placed us in a position where we feel it will be beneficial to consider selfinsuring our fleet. “Further benefits have been a growth in ridership and customer satisfaction levels. They experience a smoother, safer journey which is more punctual and reliable. It also shortens driver training time considerably and helps deliver a smaller carbon footprint. “In addition, we can show added value for our clients. When we tendered for the contract to run shuttle buses at the NEC the organisation was very keen on the geo-fencing capability available through the vehicle location system. It meant they could continually track and monitor each of the vehicles which they considered a great aid to their on-site security. “What’s in it for the drivers – well, we tried to engage with them from the start and offered bonuses to those who perform in the gold or green bands. We also record the results to create a driver CV/ passport which they can show to any prospective employer to prove they have a good and consistent record of safe and efficient driving. “The system quickly identifies those in amber, red or purple categories where they can be given additional training if necessary. In practice we find it generates competition and they try very quickly to get into the top sector like the best drivers. We needed to take on a Driver Training Officer to manage the system and have two Driver Mentors, paid extra, to assist those who require more help. The bonus is paid for gold and green status drivers and top scorers qualify for prizes. “In order to implement the system we sought to gain the confidence of drivers and get them to ‘buy in’ to the scheme. The telematics people were brought in to assist. We now hold Q&A sessions, publish newsletters and check and publish the parameters, so we quickly get to see any quirks.”
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ALBUM CONFERENCE 2013
Above left: WheelRight showed its tyre pressure sensor system. Above right: The ADL E300-bodied Scania gas bus attracted a lot of interest. It only has 40 different parts from a diesel. Below: McKenna Bros showcased its wide range of digital destination displays and next stop announcement technology Turning to advice for those interested in following a similar path Adrian pointed out there was a crowded marketplace with many providers. Operators should select whether they want tracking only – or tracking plus diagnostics and to examine the costs along with the level of ongoing support on offer. “Talk to other operators to find out what works and look at the potential for expansion,” he said. “Also, avoid making key mistakes like insufficient investment in the product, support and training. Insufficient training leads to problems. You need the ‘carrot and stick’ to gain driver ‘buy in’ and don’t fail to act on the data you receive. If it is not used, or it is used wrongly, drivers lose confidence.” He conclued: “Significant benefits can be achieved and services improved.”
Norman Baker MP Transport Minister Norman Baker was pleased to see some operators were doing well under adverse conditions and cited Compass Travel, in his own constituency, making investments and expanding its services while being very popular with the local community. He highlighted the need to keep reducing carbon emissions and confirmed the results of grant allocations from the £95m Green Bus Fund 4 would be announced very soon. He said there was a need to consider how far to take GBF as he was disappointed the funding to date, designed to kick-start a market for low carbon technology, had seen little impact on the cost of low carbon buses. Outlining his support for smartcard technology, the Minister was keen to see such a scheme www.coachandbusweek.com
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which would allow virtually seamless journeys from home to destination if adopted by operators across all modes of transport. He was keen such a move would benefit the industry as a whole, not just larger operators and didn’t want smaller independents being left behind. He highlighted the £2.5m allocated to Norfolk County Council which covers a broad mix of urban and rural operations with variable operator sizes across the county. A total of £15m has been allocated to the scheme. He was also very pleased to see the growing availability of WiFi was proving attractive to new passengers who could use their travel time on laptops or other gadgets which they cannot do while driving.
Anthony Smith felt SQCs paid little attention to passengers’ needs
“Key areas for operators to concentrate on are fare pricing and value for money. Publish the fares so people can see what it will cost. Abolish exact fares – it’s an unfriendly practice.” Anthony Smith Passenger Focus
David Astill NCT’s Commercial Manager, David Astill, explained the development of the RTI system in the city. The initial project came off the back of Leicestershire’s Startrack which did little more than deliver countdown information to stops. He said NCT had no plans to stay with the system, requiring greater detail and flexibility. NCT then entered into a partnership with the local authority under a Statutory Quality Partnership arrangement which obliges NCT to deliver on vehicle quality while the City Council provides the RTI system. The initial installations covered 95 stops across the city centre. David said the centre was just the hub of the network, so it was clear there needed to be further expansion and in due course it was extended to 750 stops. The next phase will take the number to 1,000. Messaging capability
within the system means passengers can be given advanced warning of any delays to services. Drivers have access to a touch screen in the cab which provides them with radio contact to the control centre. There is also an emergency contact facility which give the driver immediate priority live contact with control. The touch screen facility is frozen when the bus is moving. The on-board display for passengers shows the current location of the bus and the next five stops. The next stop announcement system is based on vehicle location information. All stop announcements were recorded individually as mp3 files and the appropriate file is accessed as the bus arrives at pre-determined co-ordinates. This means buses could be switched to any route and the stop information would automatically be correct. A number of pre-recorded messages are available for the driver to select. These include route termination information or can inform passengers there are empty seats upstairs – which can help reduce numbers of standees. While the system is extremely useful to passengers it generates a weekly report which NCT sees as the most important aspect as it delivers a significant amount of performance data. The NCT website homepage shows live departure information and an app has been developed for users of mobile devices. David said the new system has run successfully for two years. NCT no longer needed regulators out on the street – they had been reduced to just three in the control room.
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ALBUM CONFERENCE 2013
Anthony Carver-Smith NCT Marketing Manager Anthony Carver Smith stressed the growing importance of social media and claimed NCT had gained 44,000 followers on sites like Facebook and Twitter in three and half years. Other media channels such as Linked-in, YouTube, Flickr and Wikipedia were also gaining new followers. He pointed out Facebook has obtained a 63% penetration into internet users and is now the second most visited website in the UK after Google. He said it was a quick and cheap way of communicating with customers and keeping them informed of any problems, updates or to promote local events. He noted there was now a very strong growth in Twitter followers. “We put out all our press releases on social media now and found it to be an ideal means of communication for crisis management. It lets customers know exactly what the current situation is and allows them to search for an alternative means of transport if necessary. We now use Twitter to feed information to all the other services so we only have to put the information out once,” Anthony explained. Twitter proved invaluable during the winter period when heavy snow meant many roads were closed and services were seriously disrupted. NCT could provide live information to people wanting to travel into or out of the city and inform them of delays or cancellations. “You can also use it as an honesty tool – accept criticism and act on it – certainly admit any mistakes. It pays to respond in kind, using the same sort of language – as you only have 140 characters you can’t be too formal,” he concluded.
Anouska Ladds and Malcom Woolston MasterCard Worldwide’s Anouska Ladds and Malcolm Woolston from TfL outlined the advantages of smartcard ticketing transactions for ensuring passengers had simplicity over their fare payments without the requirement to carry cash. Cashless transactions also eliminated cash handling, sorting and counting and drivers were less likely to be assaulted and robbed if they had no takings on board. Revenue data was also more immediately available. TfL has been using Oyster successfully for some time but from December it will be www.coachandbusweek.com
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able to accept contactless payment from any recognisable card. Malcolm Woolston said the benefit of using a secure and well established back office system such as MasterCard brought a high level of security into play. He said an organisation the size of TfL had been able to negotiate favourable rates for using its administrative facilities and as a service to the industry, TfL was prepared to share the facility with other operators. He felt it would be of major benefit to smaller operators, wherever they were located, as they might favour smartcard ticketing but be put off by the charges as they didn’t get high volumes of transactions. He said TfL had masses of spare capacity within the system
and could easily accommodate transactions for many operating companies. The data would be separate and secure and TfL would offer the service at the same price it had negotiated with the provider for its own transactions. He said: “Operators outside London are not in competition with TfL. We have all this huge spare capacity within the system and I see no reason why we shouldn’t offer it to others at no additional charge. It is particularly suited to those who would like to update their ticketing technology but are faced with daunting transaction charges. This move can benefit a wide section of the industry and move its technology forward – which is better for everyone.”
Above: Evobus was present with a Mercedes-Benz Citaro demonstrator
Above left: MAN’s Ecocity gas bus. Above right: Grayson Thermal Systems displayed its lightweight electric fan packs for Euro 6 applications
Above: Volvo displayed its proven and popular Wright-bodied B7RLE
Final presentations Technical presentations from ADL, Allison, Scania, Volvo and Wrightbus were confined to a maximum of five minutes but with a joint Q&A session for all speakers at the close. ADL’s Keith Watson explained on-going development work sought overall reductions of 5% (or more) in fuel use. Tests involved trials with electric pumps and fans, transmissions, axles, tyres and chassis geometry. He claimed a 14% improvement with the Enviro400 largely due to transmission modifications. Engine output had been de-rated from 250 to 225bhp with no loss in performance but an increase in efficiency. An adjustment of one degree to the front wheel toe-in created a 2.25% gain in efficiency. ADL is also experimenting with the Williams hybrid KERS system. James Coleman from Allison Transmission said all automatic gearboxes were now being fitted with electronic control systems which gave precise control over shifting procedures and modulated shift points to maximise efficiency and economy. Allison’s control electrics were totally revised and introduced over two years ago. Continual research and upgrading is carried out to optimise settings. Alan Martin from Scania promoted the benefits of CNG – particularly biogas which was more sustainable. Scania had long experience of gas bus operation with fleets in Stockholm and Lisle and 20 buses just being delivered to Reading. The engine was the same 9.0 litre unit with a different cylinder head and an additional EMS to manage the spark ignition. He said there were only 40 different engine & chassis parts on the gas vehicles compared to a standard diesel bus. Volvo’s Adrian Wickens said the success of its hybrids had been dramatic enough for Volvo to begin series production. There would soon be 400 units in the UK alone – backed by a further 400 elsewhere in the world. Andrew Simpson from Wrightbus spoke about the current developments with the Flybrid mechanical hybrid system which is currently fitted to two Streetlite demonstrators. He said the buses would enter full production in the near future and promised a 15% reduction in fuel consumption. The Flybrid system can also be offered as a retrofit item for suitable applications.
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THE BIG QUESTION › RTI
Informing passengers in real time Andrew Cream speaks to bus operators, local transport authorities and RTI suppliers about the importance of RTI to the public and whether it should be rolled out across the UK
F
ollowing Passenger Focus’ latest research, “Bus passengers’ experience of delays and disruption”, we thought it would be interesting to find out what operators, transport authorities and RTI suppliers thought of PF’s recommendations, which are summed up below: bus passengers want better information during delays and disruption, including more realtime running information; and bus passengers want a more customer-focused attitude from bus drivers, particularly during disruption. Passengers taking part in the research described being ‘powerless’ when buses are delayed, feeling there is no way to find out what is going on. In terms of solutions, there is a clear preference for RTI to be displayed at bus stops, with smartphone and tablet apps playing an important supporting role. Anthony Smith, Passenger Focus CEO, said: “RTI helps passengers make an informed choice about what to do if buses are delayed. It’s clear that passengers want this at the bus stop, so the challenge is how to achieve that in an affordable way. Smartphone apps also have an important part to play.” The following contributors were asked: How important is real-time information for passengers and should it be rolled out across the country? www.coachandbusweek.com
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Alastair Willis Commercial Manager, Abellio London & Surrey I believe the provision of RTI is one of the most important features for passengers now and it should be easily available for all services across the country. The huge popularity of the Countdown system in London has shown how widely welcomed RTI is and it allows for one of the barriers to entry for non-bus users to be removed, in that it provides them the confirmation that their bus will turn up and when. Many operators have working systems installed but it is how easily their data is made available to the passenger which seems to present one of the biggest issues, as the technical implications of the various systems all outputting consistently to one source seems to be very challenging. At Abellio, all buses in both the London and Surrey fleets are fitted with real-time tracking and the provision of consistent and accurate real-time information is seen a core part of the operation of any of our services.
Alan Peters MD, Abus I do believe RTI would be a great marketing tool, giving people a much higher level of confidence in the service. I also believe systems would probably be of more use in areas with less frequent bus services where passengers would be able to see if there was in fact a bus coming within a reasonable time.
On a busy corridor, it is comparatively unnecessary to be told there will be buses to the shopping centre in two, four, six and eight minutes as it is quite likely that the majority of the time you can actually see the next vehicle approaching. I am concerned at the lack of reliability in operation of systems I have seen. Also, the ongoing funding is a problem. Note Preston, I think, turned theirs off, and possibly other places as well. I do not think many operators, especially smaller ones like us, have the financial wherewithal to support a system themselves.
Nick Gordon Marketing Manager, Arriva UK Bus Arriva welcomes the report from Passenger Focus and is committed to providing RTI for our customers, via use of mobile or web-based technology and, where appropriate, with the support of our stakeholder partners at bus stops and interchanges.
Currently, more than 50% of visits to our website are via a mobile device, therefore it is vital we adapt and change how we communicate and inform. Our mobile app is currently being developed and this will offer real-time data, which will be used to advise on the location of our buses, as well as incident alerts and journey planning. The initial version of this will run off scheduled data, with the realtime element forming part of the secondary development phase. The growth of social media has also helped us to convey quick and accurate information to our customers. All our regional businesses are fully active on social media channels Twitter and Facebook, helping to keep passengers updated so they can make informed travel decisions. Scheduled timetables will continue to be a vital source of information for many, although in today’s rapidly changing world the industry needs to adapt and embrace new technology to help
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Should signage like this be common place across the country?
achieve its goals. Arriva is fully committed to this and we look forward to announcing further updates in the near future.
Pat Stringer Business Development Manager, Brighton & Hove Bus and Coach Real-time information is crucially important to our bus network and passengers. Not only does it give passengers reassurance that a bus is coming and how long they have to wait, we also use the reporting side of it as our key control tool, and managing our bus network effectively on a real-time basis in such a busy city would simply not be possible without the real-time system we have. We’ve diversified in how we give information from the system to passengers, in that, as well as signs on the street and inside some key train stations, they can now get the information on desktop PCs and smartphone apps too (valuable if some stops don’t have a real-time sign). It shows how popular it is when other
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“The provision of RTI is one of the most important features for passengers now and it should be easily available for all services across the country.”
developers want to construct their own app; there are at least three other apps we know of which have been developed independently to provide RTI for buses in the city. Certainly, there needs to be a lot of constructive discussion going forward to ensure appropriate systems are developed across the country, but passenger feedback we have received over the years seriously indicates how much our system is valued, and can be instrumental in growing passenger confidence in services and encouraging greater usage of buses as a result. The development of the system we have in Sussex will continue throughout this year, and we will continue to use the technology we have in order to provide the most up-to-date information possible to passengers. It is also very useful for social networking sites to compliment RTI and we are continuing to develop our Twitter feed in this respect with specific and detailed information which we wouldn’t always be able to get through solely by putting it on signs (such as diversions or other disruption). Certainly the likes of Twitter offer opportunities to inform people of more journey options if buses are disrupted which RTI on signs etc isn’t necessarily geared up for. While it is a huge effort to
Alastair Willis Abellio
Pat Stringer, Business Development Manager at Brighton & Hove
Alastair Willis, Commercial Manager, Abellio London & Surrey
“Managing our bus network effectively on a real-time basis in such a busy city would simply not be possible without the real-time system we have.” Pat Stringer Brighton & Hove
develop a real-time system, we put a huge amount of work into it here in partnership with Brighton & Hove City Council and East Sussex County Council and the benefits of this commitment are out there visibly on the street, 24 hours a day.
Gareth Stevens Business Development Manager, Cardiff Bus Working RTI systems undoubtedly give confidence to customers and prospective customers. Things have evolved, so now, as well as RTI infrastructure/displays at bus stops, they are important at other locations too i.e. hospital concourses, shopping centres, railway stations etc. Beyond standard RTI systems, social media has become ever more important and while that’s not directly used for detailed journey times it can be very useful in getting the message out there instantly that there are potential issues – or not – as the case maybe. We also see a role for social media in dealing with major events that, on the face of it, have structure which can often evolve into something more.
David Reeves MD, D&G Coach & Bus RTI is useful particularly in a rural environment or for infrequent services, however on the back of this a good system to provide information, i.e. twitter to advise delays etc, is needed. This latter part involves ‘feeding the beast’ i.e. having a person to enter the relevant information. On high frequency or regular routes I believe RTI is less useful; similarly RTI at bus stops is both costly and if buses are frequent it is less necessary. The key is phone apps; I believe RTI at bus stops is the supporting role, not the other way around. As to drivers being customer focused... A driver will almost certainly not know why another bus is missing (be it delays, accident etc). They cannot explain to each passenger why they are late (if that is the case) as this may make them later.
Bob Rackley Commercial Manager, EYMS Having read the Passenger Focus report and from my own experience I would point out: n In a highly disrupted network, automatic RTPI is of little use as forward forecasting breakdowns mean display/ www.coachandbusweek.com
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THE BIG QUESTION › RTI
apps revert to schedule; n Disruption information requires some intervention manually; n At times of high disruption operational staff have to focus on keeping the network running; n RTPI systems are often under the control of local authorities and messages cannot be updated outside office hours; n Movement of telephone enquiries from local to national numbers limits the local knowledge of call agents which is essential in disruption; and n Twitter is a growing medium for disruption information, but again there are issues of staff cost, accuracy and ensuring customers only get information relative to their needs.
Giles Fearnley UK Bus MD, FirstGroup To be able to provide our customers with the confidence that a bus is on time, or useful information when delays occur, is hugely important. It is also a very effective way to help encourage new people to the bus. First, along with the majority of other operators, is increasingly providing this through apps and other devices. The need to upgrade those systems, however, which display scheduled rather than real time is urgent, but often very difficult when there is so much pressure on local authority funding. While increasing numbers of customers are happy to use mobile devices, there remain large numbers who continue to look to the bus stop display. Jeroen Weimar UK Bus Chief Operating Officer, FirstGroup Accurate, timely, accessible and relevant information is key to delivering great customer service. Even where our services are running smoothly (i.e. almost all the time) our customers should be able to easily obtain information to help them plan and make their journeys. As an industry we have many ways of delivering information to customers – though the quality and accuracy is still highly variable. At First we are working hard to get good information to our drivers so they can help our customers – especially where there is disruption. Last year we launched our successful First Bus journey planning app which our customers are using right across the UK. We are also making much greater use of social media such as Facebook www.coachandbusweek.com
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EYMS says maintenance of RTI systems isn’t always viable and Twitter to provide real-time updates to our customers. The challenge is rolling out the infrastructure to provide accurate real-time information on all our bus services across the UK. We currently have RTI installed across West Yorks, South Yorks, York, Norfolk, Bristol, Plymouth, Dorset, parts of Hampshire, Somerset and other counties and will roll out to Manchester and much of East Scotland later this year. There is a strong case for this investment – both in terms of providing customer information and effective service control. We are working with many local partners to deliver this infrastructure investment and ensure accessibility to current and potential bus customers. ‘At Stop’ signs are clearly attractive though we feel that the smartphone platform has much more flexibility and value for most of our customers. We can combine RTI with customer service updates, more powerful journey planning tools and offer alternative options. This allows our customers to choose when they want information on our bus services and manage their time most effectively. We will continue to invest in all aspects of improving customer service and welcome Passenger Focus’ ongoing work in this area. We will continue to improve the options available to our customers and listen carefully to their feedback.
Samantha Hodder Group Corporate Affairs Director, Go-Ahead Go-Ahead supports the need for RTI and has worked with local authorities to deliver it. Go North East, Oxford Bus Company,
Metrobus, Brighton & Hove, Plymouth Citybus, Go South Coast and Konectbus all use RTI which is implemented through their respective local ITA or local authority. We already buy into RTI in all places, but the challenge currently is the budgetary constraints local authorities are under. But we are working with all authorities to make progress even during these austere times – for example we purchased a standard ticket machine from VIX (the TP5700, in 2010) to provide RTI directly from the ticket machine via GPRS (EE SIM card) and have tested this software and SIM at GNE and have it working at Solent Bluestar currently. We have developed the integrated ticketing and RTI software with VIX (Release 5) and this has started to be rolled out to all other operating companies. We are also developing a realtime mobile app and of course social media like Twitter and Facebook enables us to provide service information on a more personalised basis – something we know from our research is becoming more and more important to passengers.
James White Campaigns Manager, Guide Dogs Audio announcements on board buses make a massive difference to passengers with sight loss. Guide Dogs wants all buses to be ‘Talking Buses’, fitted with audio-visual technology which announces bus routes, destinations and next stops. We also want more driver training, so they know how to support blind and partially sighted passengers. Audio-visual announcements
help all passengers including tourists and business travellers. Guide Dogs will shortly be revealing the results of some independent survey work which shows how welcome on board announcements would be amongst the population at large, and how useful those passengers who are fortunate enough to already use Talking Buses find them. They also mean it is one less thing for a busy driver to have to remember (if a passenger wants alerting when they have reached their stop). I was pleased to read that the Sheffield BBA bid includes provision for more Talking Buses and I hope other potential applicants would consider including Talking Buses as part of a BBA bid, in advance of the June deadline. The research carried out by the TAS Partnership last year showed that audio-visual equipment is not as expensive as previously thought. The Passenger Focus findings are of no surprise to me. Guide Dogs’ Road to Nowhere Survey revealed 80% of people with sight loss say they are unable to enjoy the freedom others take for granted because they find travelling by bus so difficult. Better journey information provision (in an accessible format) will help all bus users. Guide Dogs are excited by the many opportunities offered by mobile technology, but one of the many benefits of Talking Buses is that they help keep all passengers fully updated while on a journey (whether the individual passenger has been able to invest in an appropriately equipped smartphone or not). Trains, tubes and even planes announce when you reach your stop. They also tell you about any delays to your journey, or alterations to your route. I see no reason why buses shouldn’t do the same. This lack of consistency makes door to door journeys more difficult than they need to be for guide dog owners, others with sight loss, and transport users in general.
Alan Cressey Sales Manager, Hanover Displays There are so many partially-sighted people out there I believe in time RTI and on-board announcements will become mandatory. So many operators spoke to us at the ALBUM Conference about our RTI systems – it’s at the forefront of everybody’s mind.
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Jens Mullak MD, INIT INIT sees that accurate and reliable real-time service information for passengers is essential in today’s information-driven society. Consumers simply have the expectation to be informed in a timely manner of any relevant changes in the service provided to them. Information technology should also aim to facilitate the use of public transport services and thus provide information to the passengers during the journey. Here, audio and visual passenger information on the bus can greatly assist. Surely, in larger conurbations, where non local passengers will also use the services, RTI is vital. Rollout of RTI should be seen in context with other initiatives and schemes, such as smart ticketing and traffic signal priority, as synergies can lead to effective cost savings and the operation of many different systems can be avoided. INIT has deployed solutions to operators in Nottingham, and as a result, real-time departure information and changes in services can be made available on one of the nearly 1,000 RTI signs at Nottingham’s bus stops. In addition, the on-bus technology includes audio and visual passenger information for Nottingham City Transport’s passengers and supports the ITSO-based smart card ticketing, as well as traffic signal priority on dedicated corridors. Ian Craig MD, Lothian Buses Lothian Buses customers have enjoyed real-time information provision across our entire network for nearly four years. There is no question that this facility has been one of the key reasons why our business has weathered the storm of severe route and service disruption caused by years of tram works affecting Edinburgh city centre. The advent of smartphones and tablets is harnessing the power of this information in user-friendly applications which is further transforming customers’ trust and confidence in the services we provide. As far as a national roll-out is concerned, this will only be of benefit to customers if somebody, somewhere is prepared to fund the proper maintenance of the required equipment to ensure the reliability of information provided
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is to a very high standard. Anything less than total commitment will bring individual systems and RTPI generally into disrepute.
Samantha Hodder, Group Corporate Affairs Director, Go-Ahead
“We already buy into RTI, but the challenge is the budgetary constraints local authorities are under.” Samantha Hodder Go-Ahead
Giles Fearnley, UK Bus Managing Director, FirstGroup
“To be able to provide our customers with the confidence that a bus is on time, or useful information when delays occur, is hugely important.” Giles Fearnley FirstGroup
Ralph Roberts, Managing Director, McGill’s Buses
Ralph Roberts MD, McGill’s Buses McGill’s get to the bus stop when we are supposed to 99% of the time. However, with over 500,000 journeys a week that is still potentially 5,000 journeys a week facing disruption. This is exactly when customers need instant information. Unlike trains, buses don’t have their own infrastructure (roads) and the resultant congestion is generally what stops us achieving 100% reliability for any length of time. Providing instant and up-todate information at every bus stop is beyond the means of McGill’s and most other bus companies so we have managed to provide workarounds. McGill’s has developed a mobile alert service which is available on mobile phones and advises of delays and problems but, as with all information, there may be a delay in that knowledge being distributed. There are a number of good robust real-time systems in operation – Edinburgh and Nottingham are good examples, so we know it is possible. What’s not always possible is the political will to fund and implement them. My vision for bus travel is to have a covered shelter with RTI at every stop in the country. This would really help accelerate modal shift too. Let’s face it, would you leave your car to stand and get soaked at a bus stop waiting for a bus that is delayed by congestion? Probably not. If the politicians had the will to do this, the money to do it with would be the next problem. An answer to this would be to have parity of subsidy for bus passengers with train passengers. This would provide ample money and put an end to the two tier system where the government repeatedly treat bus passengers as second class citizens. David Blainey Operations Manager Integrated Transport, Merseytravel One of the key issues Merseytravel is trying to address is to understand why, when use of local rail services is steadily increasing, use of local bus services, even for journeys of similar length, is declining. Why should this be? Is one reason the provision of accurate real-time information?
All railway stations on Merseyside have RTI. If trains are delayed passengers know how long they will have to wait for their train. At the moment this is not the case for bus passengers. Given that bus stops are usually perceived to be less secure and have less protection from the elements than railway stations the provision of accurate RTI is seen by Merseytravel as an essential part of its efforts to get people out of their cars and encourage them to use bus travel. A new system is currently being installed which will gradually extend RTI to stops across the region with the additional option of sending information to mobile devices.
Jack Kelly Head of External Communications, National Express Customers regularly tell us that the improvements we have made to real-time information are very valuable. Recent investment, in partnership with Centro, has lead to RTI technology being installed on all our vehicles, a new smartphone app being launched giving customers the latest information and a programme to feed RTI to bus stops across the region. On top of investments into RTI technology we have also made improvements in the way we inform customers of delays via social media, as soon as our services are affected by major disruption our Twitter and Facebook pages will have the most up-to-date information on them.
Tobyn Hughes Deputy Director General, Nexus We agree with Passenger Focus’s findings that real-time information is high up on customers’ agenda for improvement. Nexus is therefore investing £766,000 from Tyne and Wear’s successful LSTF bid to make RTI a reality for bus passengers across North East England. We intend to deliver this in partnership with bus operators by equipping all buses in our area for real-time operation. The project builds on the £1m investment already made to put interoperable smart readers on all vehicles as part of the North East Smart Ticketing Initiative (NESTI), which will see pay-as-you-go travel on the smart Pop card launched later this year. Through this we and our bus operator partners will provide real time to existing
www.coachandbusweek.com
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THE BIG QUESTION › RTI
information screens at bus stations and major stops, and into journey planning tools, including Nexus’ My Journey app which allows people to read next departures from a stop of their choice on smartphones, tablets or PCs. It would be a huge financial challenge to provide fixed real-time infrastructure to all 6,500 bus stops in the Tyne and Wear area, but by targeting major stops and digital routes we can extend the reach and usefulness of the information we provide on behalf of bus operators.
Tracey Jessop Assistant Director Travel and Transport Services, Norfolk County Council Getting information to customers in a timely manner is crucial for good service delivery and instilling consumer confidence, whatever business you’re in. In this context, it is critical as people are in the process of a journey or trying to plan one. The key for me is that information is accurate and provided in as near real-time as possible. It can be electronic, which is probably easiest, but that can be supplemented by the personal touch too – via a driver announcement for example. In my experience passengers complain when they aren’t updated; they can stomach bad news, but they don’t like ‘no news’. In snow disruptions earlier this year, Twitter messages of service cancellations were not greeted with derision, far from it. Operators were thanked for keeping people up to date and allowing them to make an informed choice. Survey results consistently tell us that people see the point of boarding as an important place to get the mostup-to-date information, so RTPI at key interchanges is here to stay if we listen to customers. I do think we need to be realistic about the amount of stop level data that can be afforded and supported on street and this is where personal devices like smartphones can come into their own as a way to supplement strategically located displays. And yes I feel RTPI should be consistent across the country; however without a national standard there can be significant variation on offer. That’s not good for customers who want to travel outside a neat operating boundary or administrative area. If customers are king, we need to work together to overcome this. www.coachandbusweek.com
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“While information has always been an important part of the public transport offer, demand for it has grown exponentially over recent years.”
radio and text communication with drivers, we can keep them informed about issues affecting their route, so they are better informed to advise customers about the cause of delays. We also use the RTI system and information gathered by the Control Room to keep our 44,000 social media followers informed about any disruption.
Jonathan Bray pteg
Tracey Jessop, Assistant Director Travel & Transport, Norfolk CC
Jonathan Bray says RTI can reduce uncertainty for passengers Anthony Carver-Smith Marketing Manager, NCT Nottingham City Transport wholly supports the recommendations by Passenger Focus and has made a multi-million pound investment with INIT in RTI. This sees all 300 buses in the commercial fleet tracked by GPRS, which feeds live data to customers at bus stop displays, our website and free app. Through an excellent partnership with both our local authorities (City and County Council), we have achieved the highest number of bus stop displays on street in the UK outside London, with hundreds more to be installed in the next couple of years. As well as showing the arrival time of buses, the displays are also used to show scrolling messages to customers about disruption and issues, such as RTCs, diversions, roadworks etc. RTI is vitally important for our customers and has become an established part of their journey since we launched the system in 2010. We know from our annual customer satisfaction survey that frequency and reliability are the two key features demanded most from us and real time gives customers confidence of when their bus will arrive. It also allows us to keep them informed when things go wrong. However, a real-time system is
“Yes I feel RTPI should be consistent across the country; however without a national standard there can be significant variation on offer. That’s not good for customers...” Tracey Jessop Norfolk CC more than just displays at a bus stop or information online. It needs to be managed, as does the network of services it is tracking. Leaving a real-time system to tell your customers that buses are running very late and leaving buses to run very late does nothing to improve the image of bus travel or provide a reliable service. While giving the reassurance of when the bus arrives, real time can also confirm to customers your reliability is poor. To manage the network, we have a manned Control Room, 24/7, with controllers watching the performance of all services and intervening when buses are bunching, are running very late or a route is affected by a breakdown. This proactive intervention ensures we keep reliability high, but also keeps customers informed when problems arise. Real time has proven especially important over the last 12 months as tram works in the west and south of the city and major gas and electricity mains replacement in the east of the city have seen virtually every bus route affected by roadworks and delays. We’ve also had Royal visits and an Olympic Torch relay. Often, Controllers spot issues developing and intervene before they become noticeable to customers and through two-way
Jonathan Bray Director, pteg While information has always been an important part of the public transport offer, demand for it has grown exponentially over recent years reflecting technological changes which have made travel information increasingly accessible, convenient and affordable. RTI is important to passengers as it can reduce uncertainty, a characteristic of transport networks that we know passengers particularly dislike. In the Metropolitan areas, the use of RTI was spearheaded by Metro and SYPTE. Their ‘yournextbus’ RTI system now covers 33,000 stops, many of which also carry QR codes for even easier access to RTI via smartphone. Christopher Bowles MD, Stagecoach Manchester & Stagecoach Wigan There is no doubt that customers, and especially younger age groups, have aspirations for instant and relevant information on the punctuality of services in real time – they see it on planes, trains and the London Underground – and we need to move faster towards harnessing the power of social media and smartphones to meet this aspiration. But the technology is expensive and the projects complex, and I haven’t seen any evidence that RTI generates the additional revenue to support the business case, or that passengers would pay more for it. Nor are local authorities, with one or two wellknown exceptions, rushing to put displays at bus stops. I think we will get there, but it will take time.
David Hytch Information Systems Director, Transport for Greater Manchester TfGM is committed to using many technologies to help people make smarter travel choices based on reliable, RTI about services. Our Local Sustainable Transport Fund vision is for people to access bespoke information feeds providing up-to-date advice on
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THE BIG QUESTION › RTI
all their travel options. With LSTF funding we are investing in information management systems to gather the real-time data from bus, train and tram operator’s vehicle location systems. We are encouraging operators to invest in technology that will enable them to share data with us. As well as developing our own apps we will also provide this live travel information as open data to support the development of apps by technology entrepreneurs. So the information will be more widely available for use as a feed on other websites, and could be displayed on screens that already exist in public places such as shopping centres or doctor’s surgeries. And of course, it will be available through existing staffed travel phone lines or through interactive voice response lines. By providing the best and latest travel advice through web-based technology we hope to give a new generation of commuters the confidence they need to make smarter travel choices.
Peter Bell MD, Trapeze UK We feel RTI adds a significant benefit – it makes the process of getting the bus a lot easier. Many people have told me about how much easier they find using the bus in London, which utilises the Trapeze iBus system. Our own experience is that RTI makes a difference. When a sign stops working, people complain very quickly to their local councillor. The real problem with RTI as its implemented today is that you end up with real-time equipped buses and non-real time buses visiting the same stop. Most passengers don’t understand the difference between scheduled and real time information and just end up mistrusting the displayed information. Essentially, passengers want everything to be real time. This is not possible given the current patchwork of RTI and non-RTI areas. I therefore think RTI should be rolled out across the country. The cost of providing RTI is coming down, making it much more viable than 10 years ago. It has to be the local authority which provides the infrastructure. It’s in the local authorities’ interest to encourage people to use bus services. Of course, the operators can have a role to play. If an operator has invested in its own www.coachandbusweek.com
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real-time technology then the local authority can just take a SIRI feed. I fully appreciate local authorities are under huge cost pressure, but I feel in terms of encouraging people to use buses, RTI is a major upside – if the money can be provided. Smartphone apps also play an important role. The Countdown system in London, which Trapeze designed the mobile interface for, has seen a huge demand. I think a mix of apps and bus stop signage is the way forward.
Adrian de Courcey Director, Travel de Courcey If we, as operators, are to be successful in encouraging people to choose taking the bus over the car then it is crucial we become more customer focused. Personally, I think with the increasing popularity of smartphones, across all age groups, apps can play an important role in updating passengers with real-time information on running times, delays, disruptions etc and can also act as a cost-effective platform for operators to market discounted tickets, special offers etc. Jeff Counsell MD, trent barton As an industry we know our customers’ number one priority is punctuality – time and time again
“The provision of accurate and clear service information, in real time, should be an integral and basic element of the product we deliver on a daily basis.”
our research tells us this is the case. It’s somewhat ironic that this is the one feature of our product that isn’t fully within our control. However, it would be unforgivable of us if we didn’t at least try to inform our customers with news of delays and timekeeping of their services if it were possible to do so wouldn’t it? Live timetable information provides the customer with a perception of punctuality even if the bus is running slightly behind schedule. Vitally, in a world seemingly overcome with temporary traffic signals and ad-hoc congestion, real-time information delivered to the customer, either at the roadside or via their smartphone or tablet, provides them with comfort and assuredness that their bus will be along exactly when we tell them it will. Amazingly, I have yet to be let down by a tram or underground train not to operate to the time indicated on the real-time display and yet, I have absolutely no idea as to the timetables of either – I don’t need to know! As far as I’m concerned they ran to time. Now, don’t misunderstand me, I’m not arguing for RTI in place of robust, deliverable and honest timetables, and we should never underestimate the absolute value of drivers and the vital role they play in delivering great customer service,
Jeff Counsell trent barton
Peter Bell, Managing Director, Trapeze UK
Jeff Counsell, Managing Director, trent barton
“The real problem with RTI as its implemented today is that you end up with real-time equipped buses and non-real time buses visiting the same stop.” Peter Bell Trapeze UK
especially when things go wrong. Communicating with our customers is essential – getting an insight into their likes, dislikes and satisfaction levels is obviously important. Likewise, keeping the customer informed is critical to our success and is imperative to encourage loyalty and growth and not just when things go wrong. The provision of accurate and clear service information, in real time, should be an integral and basic element of the product we deliver on a daily basis. Some great examples of this already exist with operators and local authorities working in partnership towards the betterment of public transport. Real-time information then represents tremendous value to our customers, not to mention the ability it gives us to manage our services (in real time) by using the data and information it provides. Should we support the provision of real-time passenger information then? Of course we should, it’s a no brainer.
Adam Keen Operations Manager, Wilts & Dorset Increasingly, intending passengers at rural locations are complaining that they have little or no information about whether their bus will be delayed. Certainly, the level of passenger information for bus services has not moved at the same pace as, say, equivalent rail services. As an operator of buses in both urban and rural areas, I understand only too well that passengers waiting in rural Dorset can be potentially blind to any unforeseen events which may have resulted in their bus being delayed. Many local authorities are now starting to use money from LSTF and BBA funding to finance the provision of RTI in rural areas. Urban areas are considerably ahead of the game but if buses are to become a real alternative to the car, the level of information available to users has to increase significantly. Initial feedback from our passengers in areas where RTI has been installed has been very positive and I very much hope to see more investment by local authorities in further RTI installations. Local authorities who work with operators to innovate and exceed expectations will almost certainly see increased patronage. We all have a duty to raise the bar with a view to encouraging modal shift.
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BUCKINGHAM 3 & 2 • Ideal for 3 & 2 configurations • Ergonomic design for maximum support, comfort and legroom • Tried & tested: fitted into many new coaches as OEM • Full range of legs and fitting options make the Buckingham ideal for upseating to 70+ seats • Lighter weight makes easier for installation Prime Passenger Seating Limited 7 Canalwood Industrial Estate, Chirk, Wrexham LL14 5RL Telephone: 0870 757 1320 Fax: 01691 770 798 Email: johnm@primeps.com
www.primeps.com
28 | COACH & BUS WEEK | May 22, 2013
INDUSTRY
GUIDE
TO fuel management & emission control
The right type of fuel with the right additives can make a real difference to the fuel bill
Making fuel go further Fuel represents one of the biggests expenses faced by bus and coach operators. This weekâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Industry Guide examines the various ways companies can reduce their fuel bill, from proven fuel additives to influencing driver behaviour with telematics systems www.coachandbusweek.com
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A
lthough the price of fuel seems to have stabilised slightly over recent weeks, there has also been a dramatic turn of events involving some of the larger oil firms over the last week, which makes the future uncertain. Fuelling vehicles remains one of the biggest costs to any coach and bus operator. Any method of making fuel last longer is sure to be a sound investment. There are a variety of ways to approach this unending problem. One is simply the type of fuel which is used. Some types of fuel will burn more efficiently than others and take vehicles further. Additives can also be put into the mix, which can cause fuel to burn more cleanly or help reduce wear on engine parts and filters. Another approach is the way in which the vehicle is driven. Harsh braking, over-revving and idling all result in wasted fuel. A telematics
system can help monitor drivers to make sure they are making every effort to keep the operatorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fuel bill down. These systems also contribute to reducing accidents and wear & tear on vehicles. The amount of data these systems can provide nowadays allows this monitoring to be easily supplemented with incentive schemes. Drivers will feel less like they are being spied upon and instead know they will be rewarded for good driving. Systems are available to properly manage and monitor fuel use, making sure fuel stocks are accurately measured and preventing misuse or theft. There are also products on the market ensuring engines use the optimum amount of fluids, such as oil, to keep the engine running at peak efficiency. Upgrading the drivetrain in a vehicle can also have a fuel effeciency benefit. This can take the form of a more effecient transmission.
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CONTACT To advertise in future industry guides, call Brian Winterton for a features list or more details on 01733 293488, email brian.winterton@ coachandbusweek.com. For more information on providing editorial, call James Day on 01733 293244 or email james.day@coachandbusweek.com
Energenics A Decade of Fuel Savings at Stagecoach with Envirox The threat of further reductions in BSOG, combined with rising oil prices, make the proven fuel saving additive Envirox an increasingly attractive proposition for bus operators seeking to mitigate the impact of fuel price increases, as unlike diesel fuel its pricing remains stable. Having begun extensive trials of the product back in 2003, Stagecoach has recently signed a new three year supply agreement with Energenics. This will take the company into their second decade of using Envirox nationally. Announcing the new deal, Les Warneford, MD of Stagecoach UK Bus, said: “Fuel is one of our biggest costs. Basic prices are continuing to increase and bus operators across the UK have had to absorb a significant tax hike on their fuel since April last year… Our pioneering use of this innovative
fuel additive in the UK has helped improve the sustainability of our operations, protect local air quality, improve fuel efficiency and keep bus fares low.” Mike Attfield, CEO of Energenics Europe Ltd, said: “By the end of the new three-year supply contract, Stagecoach will have used Envirox for over 10 years. This is a great endorsement of the effectiveness of the product and a good example of being green and smart. By identifying the potential of the then new technology and adopting it at an early stage, Stagecoach gained a valuable competitive advantage.”
While fuel prices have risen, the cost of Envirox has remained stable such that it now adds well below 1% to the fuel cost. Energenics believes these economics make a compelling financial case when weighed against the proven fuel savings of 4 to 11%. No engine modifications are required to use the product, it has no negative impact on lubricant performance and the dose rate of additive is extremely low. A recent trial at East Yorkshire’s Driffield depot demonstrated that these fuel savings complement those which can be achieved with a modern telematics based driver
Above left: An Envirox dosing unit in use with EYMS. Above right: Energenics has supplied Stagecoach with Enirox since 2003
feedback system (GreenRoad in this case). This directly led last year to a full adoption of Envirox across their depots in Yorkshire with EYMS Chairman Peter Shipp commenting: “Based on the successful trial we are confident Envirox will deliver a considerable fuel saving.” Energenics Europe Ltd was originally a nanotechnology spin out from Oxford University and is still based at one of its science parks where its scientists continue to develop novel advanced materials. Envirox is based on cerium oxide, a well-known industrial oxidation catalyst widely used in catalytic converters. It would not normally be compatible with diesel fuel but using nanotechnology it has been re-engineered into a liquid format which mixes in easily. Energenics has also developed dosing systems which are purpose built for treating bulk fuel in bus depots.
T: 01865 233010 E: info@energenics.co.uk W: www.energenics.co.uk
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30 | COACH & BUS WEEK | May 22, 2013
INDUSTRY
GUIDE
TO fuel management & emission control GreenRoad An enthusiastic user of GreenRoad is Hornsby Travel. In addition to bus services in the Scunthorpe area, it runs day excursions and coach tours all over the UK and across to Belgium, with coaches also available for private hire. Since deploying GreenRoad in 2011, Hornsby has claimed a number of firsts. Among its accomplishments are that, measured against other small to medium-sized passenger transport operators in the UK, it achieved a fully green team of drivers in the quickest time, just four weeks. Hornsby has also accomplished the lowest GreenRoad average score during 2012. Complementing this, the firm had the highest percentage of ‘green’ drivers within the active driver group. In parallel with safer driving, Hornsby has made fuel savings of almost 10% across its fleet of buses and coaches. The operator is seeing less accident damage too, not to
mention a reduction in wear and tear on its vehicles, according to Workshop Manager, Rob Andrew. “After a lot of research where we looked at a number of alternatives, we opted for GreenRoad,” he said. “In making our choice we were particularly influenced by talking to EYMS about its experience with the system, which has brought it considerable benefits.” “Since September 2011 our diesel consumption has gone down by between 9.5% and 10%. Because the drivers are being more careful we’re not getting so many broken bumper casings and exterior mirrors and there’s less tyre scrub.” GreenRoad gives individual drivers instant feedback about their driving performance thanks to its traffic light-style green-amber-red LED display installed in the cab. If they corner too quickly or accelerate too harshly then the display goes red. All instances of poor driving are recorded and can be downloaded and subsequently analysed and discussed with the driver
Hornsby Travel installed GreenRoad across its fleet in September 2011 concerned. Each individual is given a safety score and encouraged to better his performance. At a recent annual get-together with the driving team in late 2012, Nick Hornsby, General Manager, acknowledged the team’s great success. “I was over the moon when the team burst into spontaneous applause as I announced that our drivers were the best in class in the country,” he remarked. Hornsby recognised many outstanding individual drivers with wine and vouchers. The award winner for the most improved
driver had cut his score from a very high risk 134 to stabilise at just five. “Never underestimate the power of recognition. For all the benefits in reducing risk and cutting fuel, the most powerful impact GreenRoad has had here at Hornsby is how it has unified our team with a common goal,” Mr Hornsby added. “We have never used GreenRoad as a disciplinary tool. GreenRoad allows us to encourage and congratulate drivers on their driving performance. “Because there is a small team of 30 full time drivers I am able to spend time chatting to each individual every day. I have the luxury of spending time on the buses so I can understand each driver’s abilities and their driving style. That way we can work together using the information from GreenRoad to target small adjustments which can make a huge difference.” T: 0844 487 4197 W: greenroad.com/uk
GreenRoad now offers
Advanced Tracking Could your fleet benefit from advanced tracking? GreenRoad recently announced the integration of GPS Insight to its best-in-class driver performance and safety solution. With Advanced Tracking, GreenRoad provides fleet operators with additional powerful fleet management capabilities resulting in improved fuel economy, better asset utilisation and enhanced productivity. Contact us to find out how GreenRoad Advanced Tracking could improve your fleet operations.
0844 487 4197 www.greenroad.com/uk
www.coachandbusweek.com
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Actia Today, Actia’s Eco-Fleet telematics is a key part of the bus operator’s technology tool-kit and can play a major role in saving fuel costs. The system provides the operator with data to report on multiple performance indicators, to reveal areas of potential inefficiency in the business. The driver is often the central focus of a telematics package and while Eco-Fleet incorporates advanced tools for managers and drivers to improve efficiency, the scope of the system extends well beyond this one element. In particular, the health of the vehicle is as important, and in some cases more so. Well maintained and healthy vehicles are more fuel efficient even when an under-performing driver is behind the wheel. One way to maintain vehicle health is through acting on vehicle diagnostic data provided by the telematics. Faults registered by onboard systems through the CANbus provide an
initial flag pointing to problems with, for example, the engine, gearbox, transmission or electronic systems. Increased oil temperature for instance, may lead to reduced fuel economy, and can be an indicator of a more serious engine issue requiring attention. Another way in which telematics may assist in maintaining good vehicle health is through monitoring fuel consumption data. Because Actia’s system actually measures and reports on fuel injected by the engine ECU (as opposed to being based on assumed values for a vehicle type),
Actia’s Eco-Fleet indentifies the ‘MPG’ of individual drivers
it is possible to make use of this to identify a fault. For example, a sudden drop in average MPG can be an indicator of a vehicle problem requiring further investigation. “This may be caused by a simple blocked air-duct, leading to an increase in engine temperature,” explained Mike Oliver, Sales Manager (Fleets & Services) for Actia UK. “Early detection of vehicle problems in this way avoids wasting many gallons of fuel in the days or weeks before a system breaks down altogether, or the fault is picked up during periodic maintenance.” Responding to diagnostic data or unexpected changes in fuel economy, and returning the vehicle to health as soon as possible not only saves fuel costs, but stops a more costly problem developing. This same fuel consumption data is used in a second way by Eco-Fleet, when combined with driver identification, idling data and other factors such as the number of miles driven. While the usual parameters of harsh acceleration,
braking, cornering and speeding are recorded and reported by the system, driver standards are also monitored in terms of ‘Driver MPG’, based on the fuel economy achieved by individual drivers across all vehicles driven. The system enables the operator to evaluate drivers according to their MPG as well as their safety score. This data may be used as part of a rounded policy on driver improvement and an incentive scheme, providing an additional way of reducing fuel and maintenance costs. As fuel costs steadily increase, it is still possible to mitigate this through understanding driver behaviour and vehicle condition. Based on data provided by Actia’s Eco-Fleet telematics, operators can make informed decisions to optimise both the performance of the vehicle, and maximise the potential of the driver. T: 01686 611150 E: mail@actia.co.uk W: www.actia.co.uk
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32 | COACH & BUS WEEK | May 22, 2013
INDUSTRY
GUIDE
TO fuel management & emission control
Tokheim It’s well known in the commercial fleet industry that a large part of the operating cost is made up by fuel. It is common, when fleet operators are working with manual data in their fuel consumption calculations, to notice that the figures don’t always reconcile. This could be due to something as simple as misreading the odometer, or the more serious matter of fuel theft, which occurs on a daily basis. Fleet operators throughout Europe have been asked the question, ‘how much fuel are you using, and how much do you think you are losing?’ The fuel management industry is a demanding market; however, traditional fuel management systems rarely present a genuine picture of fuel consumption. Today Tokheim’s commercial division ProFleet has revolutionised vehicle identification and has overcome the limitations of traditional fuel management system technology. Daniel McKinnel, Tokheim’s ProFleet UK Marketing Officer said: “SmartFuel – we want to restore trust in fuel data and SmartFuel is our solution. It’s an advanced automatic vehicle data and mileage transfer system, which has been designed especially with the commercial fleet operator in mind. www.coachandbusweek.com
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Above: Tokheim’s fuel management system is secured against fuel theft. Top: SmartFuel requires the right amount of the right type of fuel in the right tank, operating through the DiaLOG system “With SmartFuel, fleet operators don’t need to complete manual fuel sheets, which are open for input error from clerks who cannot read their writing. The error-prone task of recording hubometers on a daily basis, having to read the mileage on the vehicle’s wheels by torchlight in dark, wet or windy conditions, is rendered obsolete. “SmartFuel provides real-time data capture of fuel MPG which becomes much more meaningful.” Fuel Management Systems identify a number of factors to show the reconciliation to ensure the money leaving an account matches
the actual money being spent. Daniel continued: “Our SmartFuel system reduces the time taken in reconciling fuel issues against dip/ book stocks and could have the ability to reduce headcount. This is an accountant’s dream come true, as it reduces administration costs and paper handling.” After many years dealing through distributers, Tokheim has taken a more direct approach to the Fleet and Commercial market. Tokheim’s 93XA commercial pump was considered the workhorse of the industry back in the ‘70s. More than 40 years later, Tokheim re-entered
the fleet and commercial markets with its innovative products geared towards giving its customers the most technically advanced product range in the market. Their focus is towards providing Tokheim’s quality, efficiency and simplicity to the commercial transport industry. “SmartFuel requires the right amount of the right type of fuel in the right tank,” Daniel said. Misfuelling is also eliminated and there is no possibility of filling up another vehicle or a jerry can. Accurate odometer readings reflect the true value of distance travelled. We help all types of businesses across the UK to improve their data accuracy and reduce their overall fuel cost.” SmartFuel operates through the DiaLOG system, Tokheim’s browser-based fuel management system. It allows authorised users to control their fuel more effectively. It uses a future-proofed ARM9 platform for an extended lifetime. “You can export your report at the touch of a button. Keep them as simple as possible, or use the advanced reporting tools to drill down further on the information. The possibilities are endless with SmartFuel,” Daniel added. T: 01382 483500 W: http://tokheim. com/bnl-en/
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• Refuelling informa#on is transmi$ed electronically, allowing for enhanced data processing without human interference.
Tradi#onal FMS rarely present a genuine picture of fuel consump#on. Manual data input errors, illegible paperwork and outdated so ware are commonplace. Worse s#ll what about unauthorised fuelling or use of jerry cans? SmartFuel, our revolu#onary vehicle iden#fica#on solu#on, overcomes the limita#ons of tradi#onal FMS technology
Be$er quality all round
• SmartFuel reduces administra#on and paper handling. • Accurate repor#ng of vehicle usage and fuel consump#on helps you manage your wetstock more effec#vely.
Tel: 01382 483 525 | Visit: tokheim.com/profleet | Email: sales@dundee.tokheim.com
34 | COACH & BUS WEEK | May 22, 2013
INDUSTRY
GUIDE
TO fuel management & emission control GreenUrban GreenUrban has a range of solutions which can provide fleet operators with a fast return on investment by supplying upgrade packages to reduce fuel use as well as emissions. “You don’t always need to invest in hybrid and alternative fuel technologies to make fuel cost savings or cut emissions,” said Nigel Standley of GreenUrban. Nigel was involved in the introduction of the first low carbon bus in the UK, a hybrid Optare Solo and was a founder member of the Low Carbon Vehicle Bus Working Group which defined the 30% CO2 reduction target, since then the government has helped fund hundreds of hybrid buses. He continued: “The capital cost of ‘low carbon’ buses still hasn’t achieved a level which allows investment without significant government grants; it can take over 15 years to recoup the capital cost of a hybrid bus. I agree in principle
with grant funding for hybrids and alternative fuels to “prime the market” but this is only part of the solution. Over three quarters of UK buses are still Euro 3 or older. It will be a long time before these are replaced by hybrids. GreenUrban provides fleets with low cost vehicle upgrades, providing more modest fuel savings than hybrids, but paying back more quickly whilst still significantly reducing harmful emissions. The key is to understand fleet vehicles and their usage patterns, then introduce upgrade packages which are validated to match these criteria. Typical usage patterns are; urban stop-start, constant speed trunking and mixed inter urban. OEM’s do not develop vehicles for specific usage patterns and there are always savings to be achieved. Specific upgrades can deliver meaningful cost reductions in the majority of cases. The policy is to analyse fleet usage and provide upgrades which
deliver the desired results. GreenUrban address four key areas that impact on fuel usage: n Engine/fuel system optimisation – optimising engine tuning to match a vehicles usage pattern; n Driver behaviour/interface optimisation – driver training & behavioural improvement through telematic feedback and/or dynamic throttle modulation; n Rolling resistance – lower rolling resistance tyres or better pressure management; n Aerodynamic tuning – reducing drag and fuel use at higher speeds. By introducing carefully selected, engineered and validated solutions reduction in fuel consumption is around 10–15% and in some cases even higher. The ROI will generally be achieved in a matter of months using such upgrade packages. Upgrades need to be carefully planned and introduced. GreenUrban’s process with their customers is in four stages; analyse vehicle 1 Carefully usage profile
Recommend a specific upgrade package for each vehicle type out a robust trial to 3 Carry validate the recommended solution Fleet roll out
2
4
“In this way the ROI will be guaranteed,” said Nigel. Operators also need to be conscious about their carbon footprint, GreenUrban recently carried out an upgrade analysis for a large London Bus operator, it showed that a low investment upgrade programme would deliver payback in a matter of months, maintain bottom line margin and deliver around 10,000 tonnes CO2 saving per annum. GreenUrban, with its unique experience, tools and skill set, can work with any size of commercial fleet to reduce total operating costs by implementing validated and cost effective upgrades. T: 01768 480111 W: www.greenurban.co.uk
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Fueltek Controlling fuel access, monitoring stock levels and analysis of vehicle fuel usage is vital. Fueltek’s latest range of products are developed to put fleet managers firmly in the driving seat. Fueltek FMO (Fuel Manager On-line) is a web browser-based application, accessible with just an internet connection, account number, login and password. Users can review and print reports, export data, update information, monitor fuel stocks, view vehicle performance, monitor emissions and perform many other key tasks. Levels of access can be controlled, dictating how much information and control is available to individual users. Whether the manager is based at HQ, running a depot or travelling in the UK or overseas they can easily access information. An app is even available for smartphones if desired. The software works with Fueltek’s FT4000 Fuel Access Control
FMO can be accessed by any computer connected to the internet Terminal (FACT) which acts as a data capture unit, monitors access to the pump and measures pump throughput. The FACT is given an IP address and communicates with the host PC through the web. Data on fuelling transactions, fuel stock levels and vehicle mileage is securely transferred and only accessible to authorised personnel. Managers can customise reports so any unusual activity is highlighted and can be investigated. The system can warn when fuel
levels fall to a designated re-order position and can detect fuel deliveries and any movements outside pre-set parameters. This information can be emailed or texted immediately to relevant personnel. Vehicle warnings such as MOT due, tax due and service due can be reported on or generated as warnings in a number of formats. Fueltek FMO is also the interface with the company’s Tankwatch system which monitors and controls fuel storage tank contents. Traditional book stock readings can be misleading because they are based on pump throughput – if the pump is inaccurate the error is passed on directly. Inaccuracies are cumulative, so even accurate pumps calibrated to an acceptable +/- 0.5% will still see the book stock drift to 0.5% of the volume of fuel used. Tankwatch addresses this problem by monitoring the actual contents of the fuel tank. It is accurate to approximately 0.33%, constant no matter how much fuel is put through the pump.
Tankwatch is an integrated part of the Fueltek fuel management system and provides information on the accuracy on a fuel pump, allowing action to be taken to have the pump serviced and recalibrated if necessary. Tankwatch also automatically detects deliveries and warns the operator a delivery has taken place – particularly useful for multiple site operations where remote site tank stock information is difficult to manage. Tankwatch also stops theft directly from the fuel storage tank by providing timely warnings via text if the stock levels drop below a pre-determined level unexpectedly. FMO is easy to install and set up. It can be hosted by Fueltek and made accessible to the end user without any components being installed on their system. Of site hosting reduces IT overheads and also frees clients systems for other tasks. T: 01254 291391 E: info@fueltek.co.uk W: www.fueltek.co.uk
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THE BIG PICTURE
Leighton Buzzard-based Marshalls Coaches has taken delivery of a new high specification Plaxton Cheetah bodied-Mercedes-Benz Vario. Glen Marshall, a partner in the family-run firm, said: “We mainly operate large coaches but needed something smaller capable of meeting the latest London LEZ regulations. We wanted a quality high specification vehicle to offer our customers and were aware of the Cheetah’s reputation for excellent fuel consumption. It’s a good product which has proved itself in the few weeks since it arrived.” This nicely composed photograph, kindly supplied by Plaxton, was taken at the grade II-listed Stone Lodge in Mentmore, Buckinghamshire. The gateway forms the entrance to Mentmore Towers, a 19th-century Grade I-listed English country house. The house has featured in many films.
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38 | COACH & BUS WEEK | May 22, 2013
INDUSTRY
GUIDE
TO fuel management & emission control Prax Petroleum Prax Petroleum is one of the largest independent oil importers and suppliers of fuels in the UK. Its expertise in trading, combined with its friendly and dynamic customer support team, has established it as a leading presence in the wholesale market and the preferred business partner of its customers. With exclusive facilities on the Thames and at Immingham, Prax has a reputation as a competitive and innovative supplier. Its customer base, which includes independent resellers, logistic companies, bus & coach operators, retailers and Government organisations, enjoy the highest levels of security of supply. With quality products at exceptionally competitive prices, customers gain a competitive edge to develop and prosper in a challenging business environment.
Product launches or enhancements Prax is actively marketing various
it demonstrates its ability to provide competitive prices and to comply with Stagecoach Groupâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s demanding safety, quality, environmental and ethical standards.
Prax Petroleum has a partnership with Turners Distribution, which has branded several road tankers in its livery biodiesel blends, from B0 to B30 to specific customer requirements. Increasingly it is seeing local authority incentives for using higher blends of biodiesel. There can be significant cost savings as well as the positive publicity which can be generated from an environmental point of view. The government is very keen to promote fully sustainable types
of biodiesel sourced from waste material and there are incentives to encourage its use.
Recent contracts won Prax was very pleased to report it has secured a contract to supply further sites with Stagecoach Group in Yorkshire and Lincolnshire. Prax was particularly pleased to have won this contract as
Projects completed or delivered As well as completing several upgrades and improvements at Prax Petroleumâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Dagenham fuel terminal, Prax now has a presence in Immingham North Lincolnshire. Based at Simon Storage West terminal this facility now enables Prax to reach customers in the North of England and along the M62 corridor. Prax tankers can now increasingly be seen out and about in the South and North of the country thanks to its partnership with Turners Distribution which has branded several road tankers with the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s livery.
T: 01932 843354 E: info@praxpetroleum.com W: www.praxpetroleum.com
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Quartix’s telematics system can identify areas where drivers can improve, helping operators to intervene and improve fuel effeciency
Quartix Telematics is playing an increasingly important role in fuel management for commercial fleets across all sectors, as it is proves to be an efficient and measurable way of reducing fuel consumption. Andy Kirk, Sales and Marketing Director at Quartix, said: “When we started, we were the very first UK company to provide 100% webbased solutions in the telematics market.” And since its inception, Quartix, which is wholly owned by its founding members, seems to have been sticking to its innovative blueprints. Andy continued: “We are unique as we design the whole system, from what goes in the vehicle to the software. It’s all our own intellectual property so we have complete control.”
How can telematics help coach & bus operators reduce their fuel consumption? There are two main axes to look at when working to lower fuel consumption: reducing idling time and improving driving behaviour. With the real-time tracking from Quartix, operators are able to tell at any time if one of their coaches or buses is idling, and the daily and weekly reports will give them all idling details and totals for each
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Andy Kirk, Sales and Marketing Director of Quartix vehicle. Cutting idling times can have a huge impact on reducing the fuel bill. Another key feature to help you reduce fuel consumption is Quartix’s Driving-Style Monitoring suite. The module monitors and reports on harsh acceleration, braking and speeding, giving operators the ability to make substantial fuel savings while dramatically improving the safety of their drivers and customers. Using a combination of GPS data and the sensitive “black box” style monitoring built into the Quartix Telematics device, rapid acceleration and braking can be accurately recorded and processed. The management information is provided in simple and easy-toread graphical reports. Unlike other driving analysis
systems, the Quartix Driving-Style feature is not connected to the vehicle’s CAN-Bus, which allows reliable driver comparisons across all vehicle types, makes and models. It also means the system is remotely configurable, does not need vehicle manufacturers’ approvals, comes at no additional cost and can be used on new and old vehicles alike. Drivers who accelerate and brake harshly cost a business much more than those who don’t for the same journey. Harsh braking not only wastes fuel and increases servicing costs (tyres, brakes etc) but is also known to be a driving style which leads to an increased risk of accidents, which is why managers are now seeing monitoring good driving as a top priority.
How much fuel can be saved? Operators can make real fuel savings by using the system and working with their drivers to improve driving style and reduce idling times. Reducing top speeds by 10mph alone could cut 8-9% off the fuel bill and modifying the acceleration and braking style could cut a further 6% off the bill. The savings mentioned above are made exclusively by improving driver behaviour – reducing idling will mean further savings. It is widely recognised that a diesel
engine left running idle will consume around a gallon of fuel per hour, so cutting down on this practice could mean valuable cuts on the fuel front.
How do operators get their drivers to cooperate? To encourage their drivers to adopt a more economical and safer driving style, managers have found that using carrots, not sticks, often works best: giving incentive to better drivers and rewarding top performers, who are easily identifiable thanks to league tables on the Quartix system, has shown to be one of the most effective ways. Without singling any drivers out, another method is to look at the driving scoring average across the fleet and working with the team to increase it. The publication of a recent survey of 1,000 UK business drivers shows incentivising drivers is the best way to ensure fuel consumption is reduced. Nearly three-quarters of the drivers surveyed said savings were possible. Indeed, Quartix customers have repeatedly shown evidence to support this. Some customers have reported saving up to 9% on their fuel bills in just six months. T: 0870 013 6663 W: www.quartix.net
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INDUSTRY
GUIDE
TO fuel management & emission control ZF Euro 6 is fast approaching. Vehicle manufacturers have been hard at work, redesigning and refining engine technologies to meet the new nitrogen oxides (NOx) and particulate matter (PM) targets. However, building a cleaner-running engine doesn’t automatically make it a more fuel-efficient one, so maintaining performance and fuel economy at Euro 5 levels can be a challenge. Fortunately, other elements within the drivetrain – the transmission, for example – can make a useful contribution to fuel efficiency. With its long pedigree of innovation in transmission design and development, ZF is helping manufacturers and operators with Euro 6. Particular attention is being given to bus & coach applications, where the choice of transmission is an increasingly important factor in the pursuit of efficiencies in heavy, stop-start urban traffic. ZF’s six-speed EcoLife automatic
gearbox is an example of a product which addresses this demand. The design includes an integrated torsional vibration damper which contributes to lower average engine speeds through earlier upshifts even in four-cylinder applications, reducing fuel consumption. Its high performance twin heat exchanger cooling system also makes EcoLife ideally suited to the higher Euro 6 operating temperatures. Further refinements are being applied to EcoLife during continuing development of the product, especially with regard to gearshift programmes, to meet the ever-changing needs of operators. Although modern urban bus transmissions are already equipped with alternative shift programmes (e.g. Eco, Normal, Power) to suit specific terrain and driving conditions, only one is activated for a particular route. Buses may therefore run with a ‘Power’ drive programme – perhaps selected to cope with a single, short incline – even though the majority of
A typical EcoLife installation: the Volvo D9B driveline from the Volvo B9TL double-deck bus, showing the ZF-EcoLife transmission and ZF-AV132 rear axle the route is better suited to a fuel economy orientated programme. ZF has eliminated such compromises with its EcoLife system, by developing a topographic dynamic shift strategy known as ‘TopoDyn Life’. Incorporated within the transmission control software, it continuously monitors the topography and all driving resistances, using these data to
calculate the ideal gear shifting points for any condition. The original TopoDyn concept was first applied to later generations of the popular ZF-Ecomat. By recognising various driving situations and automatically switching between its different drive programmes, TopoDyn continues to achieve fuel savings of around 5% in typical ZFEcomat applications. EcoLife in combination with TopoDyn Life has taken the concept a stage further. Instead of switching between drive programmes with different shift characteristics, TopoDyn Life makes a progressive transition through the shift spectrum, bringing a higher level of optimisation to fuel efficiency. Compared to Ecomat with TopoDyn, EcoLife plus TopoDyn Life typically achieves additional reductions in fuel consumption. T: 0333 240 1123 E: info.zf-services-uk@ zf.com W: www.zf.com/uk
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Groeneveld The Oilmaster system from Groeneveld replaces the manual checking and replenishment of oil between service intervals and helps fleets reduce oil consumption, oil wastage, filter contamination and downtime needed for maintenance and repairs.
Oilmaster oil management system
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. Generally, this level is substantially lower than the maximum level mark on the dipstick, meaning oil consumption is substantially lower at optimum oil levels and less is required when changing oil. This results in financial benefits for companies, through accurate and safe automatic monitoring of engine oil levels on vehicles with high utilisation requirements. Oil levels can also be easily checked using Levelmaster, the external ‘at a glance’ indicator. More major fleets are now seeing the benefits of fitting Oilmaster and are specifying the system as part of the standard specification on all new vehicles. T: 01509 600033 E: info-uk@groeneveldgroup.com W: www.groeneveld-group.com
Features List 2013 Below is the list of this year’s scheduled dates and topics for future Industry Guides. Dates are subject to change. Issue 1090 1093 1095 1097 1099 1101 1103 1106 1107 1109 1111 1113 1115 1117
Issue Date June 5 June 26 July 10 July 24 August 7 August 21 September 4 September 25 October 2 October 16 October 30 November 13 November 27 December 11
Product Focus Feature Ticketing & Cash Handling Repairs & Refurbishment Training & Safety Glazing & Entry Systems Uniforms & Workwear Vehicle Presentation Engines & Transmissions Security & Insurance Digital Technology Garage Equipment Seating, Flooring & Interiors Ticketing & Cash Handling Repairs & Refurbishment Fuel Management & Emission Control
CONTACTS Advertising & Marketing Manager Ian Gillis 01733 293484 ian.gillis@coachandbusweek.com
Advertising Executive Brian Winterton 01733 293488 brian.winterton@coachandbusweek.com
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minibus The essential read for Minibus Operators
May 2013
STORY FOCUS Edinburgh-based LR Executive is the latest operator to acquire the increasingly popular EVM Avantgarde-converted Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 516. Full report p45
TC clarifies licence applications
A
lthough it arrived too late for inclusion in the Minibus section, the details of Traffic Commissioner Richard Turfittâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s reminder to applicants for restricted licences to run minibuses are carried in the main CBW news section (p4). While the Traffic Commissioners are ultimately responsible for granting these applications they are obviously becoming concerned about the validity of applications which would ultimately be taking work away from commercial operators who need to charge realistic rates for their services. The reminder will hopefully deter
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some would-be or opportunist restricted licence holders from attempting to qualify. It will also sharpen the attention of those at the TCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s offices responsible for processing applications. Already the police in West Yorkshire have clamped down on minibuses illegally engaged in hire and reward work in the Bradford area with a number discovered recently through organised stop and check operations. This indicates more of a trend towards bypassing the legal requirements for hire and reward altogether and the probable increase in people attempting this activity may
well be fuelled by the poor current economic situation. Whatever the reason is, such activity is not permissible legally and all it does is disadvantage commercial operators who need to pay their staff wages, comply with DCPC requirements and maintain their vehicles in a fit and proper condition. Compliance costs money and those choosing to avoid full compliance can undercut on rates and put legitimate operators at risk or even out of business. Martin Cole Editor
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news
10
The number of years Mansfieldbased JA Travel has been in existence
Eberspächer UK strengthens its position Management team strengthened and investment in sales, support & production Eberspächer UK, supplier of heating, air conditioning and climate control systems, is gearing up for growth. Capitalising on the success of its fast-growing range the company has just completed moves to strengthen its management team, expand workshop/support staff levels to boost production and UK/export sales and deliver improved customer sales/service through its UK dealer network. Commercial Manager Nicholas Clarke has been promoted to head up Eberspächer’s European Initiative for Air Conditioning and Climate Control Systems. Nick is establishing new opportunities in Europe for the company’s expanding range of UK-designed and manufactured Air Conditioning and Climate Control Systems and associated components. Nick’s place at Eberspächer’s
Ringwood HQ is now taken by Chris Dore, who is promoted to Commercial Manager. Chris joined Eberspächer UK in 1999. His career at Eberspächer has included design engineering roles, latterly as Technical Manager for the company’s commercial vehicle air conditioning division. Other personnel changes include: n David Willis, promoted to Design Engineer, to lead the design/ development of Eberspächer UK’s new products. Previously he worked in the company’s specialist and military department; n Kevin Day promoted to
The firm has introduced personnel changes across the board
JA Travel’s Sprinter Elegance stars at UK Coach Rally Mansfield-based JA Travel took delivery of its new EVM Sprinter Elegance at the UK Coach Rally. The Euro 5 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 516 Cdi was also EVM’s official exhibit at Alton Towers. EVM’s Peter Flynn said: “We didn’t really know what to expect with Alton Towers being a new venue for the rally, but we were pleasantly surprised. There was good footfall from visitors and quite a number who had come specifically to check out our vehicle. It resulted in a number of strong enquiries for us to follow up, so it was certainly worth attending.” JA Travel specified a 163bhp
engine and six-speed manual gearbox for its new 16-seater minicoach. It also features the integrated three-step entry with LED strip lights and stainless steel inserts and in-dash air con with forced vents in the luggage racks. The company also opted for an upgraded Sound 20 audio system. The reclining seats have threepoint belts, arm rests with leather cushioned inserts, side flaps with soft foam and finished in two colour real leather. Its external appearance is enhanced with EVM X-clusive side skirts, colour-coded bumpers and a distinctive chrome pack. There is also a large luggage boot.
Applications Engineer within the Air Conditioning department. Previously his role was Automotive Master Technician in the assembly workshop; n Dean Barnes promoted to Sales Administrator, from being team leader in the stores; and n Daniel Mathews promoted to Assistant Buyer, previously he was Warehouse Supervisor. In addition Paul Ellender, Simon Adams, Peter Adams, Kim Neale and Dave Rolls, Sutrack UK-based specialist bus/coach air conditioning/climate control personnel, are now part of Eberspächer’s UK operation. This also sees Sutrak dealers Airconco, Manchester, Ransome Engineering, Ipswich, JC Enterprises, Ireland and Burnstein Engineering, Watford and their associated sub-dealers added to Eberspacher’s dealer network. Vince Lee, Eberspächer UK’s MD, said: “These are exciting times for Eberspächer UK. We now have the
additional production and support capability to increase output of our new Air Conditioning and Climate Control Systems necessary for growing UK and export demand.” The Eberspächer UK dealer network has also been investing heavily. This has been made in order that dealers have the trained staff and resources available to support the company’s recently launched Total Life Care (TLC) programme – claimed to be a unique initiative to provide more support for Eberspächer UK customers. The TLC package extends to manufacturer-supported maintenance schemes or extended warranty packages for fixed vehicle life service and maintenance costs. TLC starts from the first enquiry, to the delivery and installation of the equipment using trained installers and extends to cover the end user. This means that all vehicle bodybuilders and suppliers can relax in the knowledge Eberspächer UK continues to have its customer’s requirements covered for the life of the equipment. TLC provides a ‘one call’ service to Eberspächer’s dedicated After Sales team which ensures a trained Eberspächer engineer is available to attend to any service issues.
EVM has recently supplied two Sprinter X-Clusives to London-based Back Roads Touring Company. Both are Sprinter 516 Cdi models with 163bhp engines and 7 G-Tronic automatic gear boxes. Back-Roads Touring is a unique small group touring concept offering fascinating regional tours throughout the UK & Europe for groups of up to 18 people per tour. Popular tours include Cornwall, The Lake District, Northern and Southern Wales, La Provence, Loire Valley, Tuscany and Scottish Highlands and Lowlands. MD James Nathan (above) said his relationship with EVM came from its attention to detail in delivering a custom-built minibus to his exact needs.
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1974 5 The year Marshalls Coaches of Leighton Buzzard was formed
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The number of unlicensed minibuses seized by West Yorkshire Police in its recent clampdown
New EVM Avantgarde for LR Executive
LR Executive of Edinburgh, has taken delivery of a new EVM Sprinter Avantgarde. The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 516-based conversion features a five-speed automatic gearbox and is equipped with 16 reclining seats trimmed in leather. The passenger entrance utilises the original Mercedes-Benz hinged entry door which is extended to fit with the modified stepwell incorporating EVM’s integrated three stage entry step with LED strip lights and stainless steel inserts. Stepped and curved double glazed saloon side windows ensure passengers have good views. In-dash air conditioning is supplemented by an Eberspächer airconditioning unit in the rear, which is ducted through the passenger service units in the luggage racks. Heating is provided by a heater booster. The customer opted for the Mercedes sound 20 Upgrade Radio/
Bridgestone launches new website
An ‘attractive, user-friendly’ website has been unveiled by Bridgestone in the UK, in an attempt to provide the most comprehensive information possible about its portfolio of products. Featuring a local Bridgestone dealer locator and fresh new content, drivers of cars, SUVs, 4x4s and vans/minibuses can find out more about the most suitable tyres for their vehicles. Prior to creating http://auto. bridgestone.co.uk/passenger-tyres/, Bridgestone carried out extensive consumer research in several
M&J creates new life for Iveco Daily
EVM’s integrated three stage entry step with LED strip lights and stainless steel inserts makes boarding the vehicle easier CD with a 15” monitor recessed in the roof lining. The seats have three-point seat belts, arm rests to aisle sides with leather cushioned finish, side flaps with additional soft foam, fold down tables and magazine pockets in real leather. Ample luggage provision comes from a full depth drop boot and half height luggage shelf and the appearance is enhanced by an EVM bumper spoiler and colour matched side skirts. Through many years of providing chauffeur and travel services, LR Executive Travel has been involved
Bridgstone’s new website has been arranged into two main regions regions to better understand the needs of drivers and also the way in which they would like Bridgestone to communicate with them online. With this research in mind the
in many events in Scotland. The company operates Mercedes coaches, minicoaches, S Class saloon cars as well as Chrysler and Volkswagen people carriers. It can deliver a bespoke service for weddings and provide customers with a fully co-ordinated plan to ensure parties arrive at their wedding venues on time and in style. Managing Director Stuart Leonard said: “Attention to detail, quality of finish and the allimportant ‘kerb appeal’ of the EVM product, is our reason for choosing EVM again.” website is arranged into two main regions: 1 TYRES: Catering to the preferences of different types of customer, making available different ways to find the best tyres for their vehicle and inform themselves about the strengths of Bridgestone’s different tyre ranges and products. JOURNEY: 2 YOUR In addition to informing visitors with news, tyres tests, safety tips and other content, the company aims to show its passion for their ‘journey’ wherever it takes them, with ideas and tips for not only their daily motoring but also their trips and travel plans for the future. In all parts of the site, a Dealer Locator is available to guide visitors to a local sales outlet.
M&J Minibus Hire of Bury St Edmunds has taken the unusual step of upgrading its operation through the purchase of used accessible minibus which it converted to 16-seat minicoach specification. M&J is run by Mike and Jackie Woodhouse and started up in 2007. Well known to many local operators, he has driven on private hires and tours in the UK and in Europe. Having run an ageing but well presented LDV for a few years Mike decided it was time to get something larger to offer customers greater comfort and flexibility. He sourced a long wheelbase, accessible Iveco Daily 50C13 with a six-speed manual gearbox which had belonged to a charity and benefited from low use. It was fitted with four seats and an underfloor passenger lift. Mike removed the lift and sold it on, installed new interior trim, new Abacus seats with threepoint seatbelts and magazine nets and fitted a rear step. Mike said: “I’m pleased with the result. It went through the COIF without a hitch. Now we have a vehicle which is more powerful and an improvement for the driver while being more spacious and comfortable for customers. Once we’d put the legal lettering on we felt it need a bit extra so we had a few vinyls made and it has transformed its appearance and made it much more attractive.” Presentation has always been a key priority for Mike. The vehicle is cleaned before each job and is only driven by a uniformed driver. Both Mike and Jackie have undertaken the DCPC training, they are fully CRB checked and just recently acquired the full six-star accreditation through BUSK’s Simply Safe scheme. Visit http://mjminibus.co.uk or call 01284 766969
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news
EVM Avantgardes for Apollo Two 16-seaters acquired to by Cardiff-based operator to ‘stand out from the crowd’ Apollo Minibus of Cardiff recently acquired a pair of EVM Avantgardes based on Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 516 CDi with five-speed automatic gearboxes. They feature electric plug type entry doors with EVM’s integrated three stage entry step with LED strip lights and stainless steel inserts Both vehicles were fitted with 16 seats, three-point seat belts, arm rests to aisle sides and leather upholstery. The last row features a single and double table finished in black wood with recessed cup holders, all on ‘leg free’ pedestals. Full-length luggage racks with integrated reading lights and passenger service units offer storage space along with the full drop boot with half height luggage partition. Colour-coded X-Clusive body kits and full chrome kits compliment the Mercedes-Benz silver finish. Based near the famous Ely river bridge in the Welsh capital, Apollo
Police clamp down on unlicensed minibuses
West Yorkshire Police have clamped down on illegal minibuses. A recent operation saw five minibuses seized and the drivers fined. The drivers concerned were all carrying workers to and from factories. Officers found they did not have the relevant D1 licences allowing them to drive minibuses for hire and reward. Any driver having passed the test before 1997 is automatically covered to drive minibuses but not for hire or reward. A separate D1
Minibus is ideally situated for easy access to the M4 and Cardiff airport. It offers a wide selection of services connected to the travel and coach industry and claims to have developed a good reputation. Additional services offered include accommodation bookings, tours to historic sites, private hire, UK travel, ferry/shuttle transport and European travel. The fleet covers a wide variety of coach types, from 16, 21, 33, 49-seat executives. All
coaches are fitted with seat belts and some of them come equipped with video monitors, hot water facilities and on-board washrooms. MD Ernie Wheadon said: “We wanted to move to a brand which would stand out from the crowd and reinforce our commitment to passenger comfort for a growing list of corporate clients. EVM has done just that with two exceptionally well finished vehicles.”
Two new Sprinter-based Avantgardes from EVM have joined Apollo test must be passed to qualify for hire and reward. Drivers taking their test after 1997 must take a separate D1 category test in order to drive a minibus at all. Police issued the following statement through the local press: “If you intend to receive payment for transporting passengers in a minibus you must also ensure you have an O-licence – this is obtained through the Traffic Commissioner. “It is only when you have the D1 category on your licence and the O-licence that you are legally covered to take paying passengers. Driving without the correct licences also makes your insurance void.” Anyone caught driving minibuses without the correct licences faces a fine of up to £2,500 and the possible seizure of their vehicle for no insurance.
Karsan eyes European market Turkish vehicle builder Karsan, which has been manufacturing commercial vehicles for Renault, Peugeot, Citroen and Hyundai for many years, is now looking to enter the European market with its exclusive Jest, which was produced with an investment of €50million. Jest is a revision of Karsan’s J10 series which is available on a choice of chassis and comes in 14-seat minibus form or a larger, unspecified, midibus size. Hoping to complete a deal in Europe by 2015, the firm will open a sales & marketing office in Italy. Karsan Marketing General Manager Vançın Kitapçı said the Jest had drawn demands from potential customers as it was designed to carry only people, in contrast to the alternatives, which were usually converted from vans. Kitapçı said Karsan would start selling Jests to dealers at a price of between 95,000 Turkish Liras and 105,000 liras. He also said it had reached an agreement with Vodafone to provide free WiFi onboard.
Alexandria minibus operator loses O-licence Scottish Traffic Commissioner (TC) Miss Joan Aitken, has revoked the licence of a minibus firm because it failed to operate legally. Jeannette Denniston, trading as J&B Denniston Mini Coaches, was granted a licence as a sole trader but had been running the licence as a partnership with her husband, William Denniston. Operator licences are not transferable. At a Public Inquiry on April 19, Miss Aitken also considered an investigation by VOSA. An Examiner reported that a vehicle operated by J&B Denniston Mini Coaches was found with a worn tyre and that vehicles had regularly failed MOTs.
The vehicle was issued with an ‘S’ marked prohibition – indicating a serious maintenance failure. However, at a follow up investigation, the Examiner concluded the business had the necessary systems in place to keep vehicles roadworthy. The TC said she would not have terminated the licence on the basis of the vehicle prohibition and MOT history alone. “Having read all of the documentation I have come to the view that this business was being operated as a partnership with Mr Denniston being as much in control as Mrs Denniston.”
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news focus › limousine safety
Demonstrably dangerous Gareth Evans reports on a multi-agency exercise carried out in the heart of London to highlight the dangers of illegal stretched limousines
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I
t’s all too easy for us to rant about the menace of illegal limousines, which represent unfair competition – and of course, cynics can dismiss the concerns of legitimate PSV operators as being something akin to sour grapes. However, a practical demonstration of the dangers such vehicles can pose in the event of an emergency helps to bring reality home. Last Tuesday (May 14) members of London Fire Brigade’s (LFB) extrication team highlighted the dangers of illegal limousines by cutting up a previously seized vehicle in the heart of the worldfamous Covent Garden. LFB joined forces with VOSA, Transport for London (TfL) and
the Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) in a bid to make the general public more vigilant when hiring a limousine. Actors from Casualties Union were ‘rescued’ from the limo. However, guts and gory scenes were nowhere to be found – the nearest tomato ketchup got was on the tables of an adjacent cafe.
The Whys & Wherefores
In March 2012 TfL began working with VOSA and the MPS to increase enforcement against illegal luxury or novelty cars which have become part of the capital’s nightlife, following concerns raised by Traffic Commissioners (TC). Since then, 358 limos and novelty vehicles have been stopped. Of these, 27 have been impounded and 58 fixed
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Clockwise from far left: While ambulancemen stabilise the ‘driver’, firemen start to remove the roof – the crowd in the background says it all. Sir Peter Hendy supported the event. The limo before the exercise started. Scruffy seats – the back row was the only one fitted with seat belts. After being carried out on a board, the ‘driver’ was attended to in the designated casualty area on the edge of the scene by ambulance and fire service personnel. The ‘driver’ is released – look at the jaws on that powerful cutting gear
penalty notices have been issued, involving 19 operators over a 13-month period. The vehicle involved in exercise at Covent Garden was seized during ‘Operation Kansas’ in June 2012 on The Mall. At the roadside check, the limo was found to have major safety issues, including two serious brake defects, two serious steering defects and a loose passenger seat. The vehicle was given an immediate roadworthiness prohibition notice and immobilised prior to it being impounded once VOSA was satisfied it was not being run in accordance with the PSV Operator licence requirements. It also did not have a Certificate of Initial Fitness (COIF), which of course, is required on all UK-operated Passenger Carrying Vehicles with
nine or more passengers. Asked by CBW what penalties the driver received, VOSA said: “The driver was given a £200 fixed penalty for numerous offences relating to breaches of the Drivers’ Hours and Tachograph regulations as well as driving a vehicle in a defective condition.” Following the conclusion of the exercise, CBW’s attention was drawn to the very rough wiring beneath floor. In the words of a friendly VOSA member of staff, it was “dreadful”, which “may explain why they go up in smoke so easily”.
Reaction
The event appeared to be wellreceived by members of the public, there being no shortage of interested onlookers – complete
with the seemingly obligatory camera phones. Of course, it doubtless helped that it was held at 1215hrs, during what is the lunch break for many workers. A crew from ITV London News was also in attendance although it was perhaps disappointing that the BBC did not appear to deem it worthy of airtime on radio or TV. Giving his reaction, London Fire Commissioner Ron Dobson said: “Our crews are called to around 10 road traffic accidents every day which is why it’s vital to have regular opportunities to practice their rescue skills. This demonstration has given them a fantastic opportunity to practise these life-saving skills in one of London’s most iconic spots. “The demo is a great opportunity
for the public to see our skills in action, and hopefully it will make them think twice about hiring an illegal limo.” Heather Cruickshank, VOSA’s Operations Director, said: “The majority of limousine operators are licensed and use their vehicles responsibly, but there is a sizeable minority that does not operate in this way – and the public must be alert to this risk. Only booking with licensed operators is the best way of minimising the risks to themselves and other road users – and helps send a clear message to those who chose to try and trade unlawfully.” While he was unfortunately otherwise engaged at the Traffic Commissioners’ annual conference, Nick Jones, Lead
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news focus › limousine safety
Above left: Removing the roof. Above right: Dodgy underfloor wiring. Below: A cover was placed over the steering wheel to prevent the air bag deploying TC for Limousines and Novelty Vehicles, told CBW: “I welcome the enforcement action taken by VOSA and TfL in relation to the illegal operation of limousines. Legitimate limousine operators frequently tell me of their concern, and frustration, at those in the industry who fail to adhere to the relevant safety standards and ensure their vehicles are properly licensed. “The targeting of illegal limousines – and this latest demonstration of the consequences by the London Fire Brigade – serves to reinforce the key safety issues which arise when operators do not meet the minimum standards required to carry passengers. “However, it should also work to remind the legitimate industry that fair competition is an equal priority for Traffic Commissioners, as the regulatory body. Limousine firms who are correctly licensed and meet all of the necessary standards should expect to operate on a level playing field. “They should also be reassured that when VOSA enforcement action is referred to Traffic Commissioners, we will consider the use of our regulatory powers. All commissioners are committed to dealing robustly with operators who run illegally, fail to meet vehicle safety requirements and compromise fair competition.” Speaking to CBW in Covent Garden, Neil Barlow, VOSA’s Head
of Policy, observed: “13 passengers is typical of what we would expect to find in this type of vehicle. Sadly, in this industry a large proportion of vehicles are illegal. We’re putting lots of resources into it but equally we’re not trying to stop people using them. Sadly, the general public think that if something is overtly advertised, it’s legal when in fact it is not. “COIF is not just a rubber stamp – it can fundamentally change the design of these vehicles. It also includes such matters as the turning circle – a pedestrian on a pavement can be swiped for example. Limousines can meet safety standards but it costs money. There are no grey areas over legality. We’ve got a duty to ensure fair competition.
“Sadly, the general public think that if something is overtly advertised, it’s legal when in fact it is not. Neil Barlow Head of Policy, VOSA
Case Study:
US limo blaze kills five
Poignantly, the exercise was carried out just over a week after a stretched limo hit the headlines across the Atlantic when five women lost their lives in a blaze onboard. The fire engulfed the rear third of the vehicle. The driver, who escaped alive, reportedly said he initially misheard the initial complaint from a passenger about smoke in the saloon, amid loud music from the passengers’ compartment, and thought she was asking for permission to smoke. By the time he realised something was wrong and pulled over, “within maybe 90 seconds”, the limo was engulfed in flames. While the vehicle was carrying one more passenger than it was legally allowed to do so, according to BBC News, California Highway Patrol would not comment on whether overcrowding had been a factor in the deaths. However, the coroner has said the authorities do not suspect anything criminal has occurred.
“This is the result of operations we’ve done in London but we are policing it across the UK – we’re now getting more consistent levels of enforcement.” London’s Transport Commissioner, Sir Peter Hendy CBE, was keen to sing the praises of the TCs, when he told CBW: “The matter was first brought to our attention by the TCs, who deserve great credit. We’re going to continue doing these demonstrations until the limo market is run by reputable people who don’t break the law. “The 13 passengers who were onboard when his vehicle was originally stopped were out enjoying themselves – they could easily have been killed or seriously injured. This vehicle was taken off the road at The Mall – I happened to be there. “There are legal operators of limousines. They can be quite a bit more expensive but they deserve to have their businesses protected from unfair competition.”
For a vehicle with nine or more passenger seats use the Operator Search at www.dft. gov.uk/vosa or call VOSA on 0300 123 9000. n TfL has a database of licensed vehicles with fewer than nine passenger seats in a dedicated section of its website, which can be found at www.tfl.gov.uk/ findaride
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52 | COACH & BUS WEEK | May 22, 2013
" E W F S U J T F P O U I F T F Q B H F T B M M Z F B S G S P N K V T U c D B M M Network Warrington have the following vehicles for sale 7HO
All Vehicles Direct Fleet Many With COIFâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, PSVâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, Wheelchair
Access Lifts
& Ramps
Dennis Dart SLF 10.8m 2000/2001 V & Y Plate, Cummins 6BT, Allison AT545 4 speed auto, Marshall body, 40 seats. Contact Ian Parker (Engineering Manager) Warrington Borough Transport Ltd Wilderspool Causeway, Warrington WA4 6PT. Tel 01925 634296
2004 Bova Futura
51 seat executive, LEZ compliant, ZF auto, excellent condition, centre sunken toilet, 2 monitors, DVD, MOT until May 2014.
ÂŁ59,000 + VAT
Mercedes Optare Solera
39 seats + courier, 3 point belts, 6 speed manual, double glazed tinted glass and curtains, air-con, driverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s electric windows, reversing camera, 247,117 miles.
ÂŁ49,000
Travelstar European 01922 647100 / 07779 801862
Blythswood Motors 0141 889 9730
2004 Ford Transit
S
ÂŁ6,450 + VAT â&#x20AC;&#x201C; PX considered
Crystals Coaches Ltd 020 8960 8800/07971 000111
COIF and accessibility certificate, 40 seats and 27 standing, taxed until August and with a new MOT, this is a very clean and tidy bus which is ready to go straight to work.
POA
1998 Volvo B10M Caetano Enigma
49 seats with retractable belts, monitor, DVD, radio, cassette, taxed and tested, has air-con but needs re-gas + belts, needs t.l.c. but good motor.
ÂŁ15,500 + VAT ono
Phone Nick on 01626 833664 or 07872 839530
Paul Watson Travel paul.watson9@btconnect.com
2007 Unvi Riada
2002 ADL ALX200 Dennis Dart
2005 MAN Noge
Brand new engine with Mercedes warranty, 22 seats + certified courier seat, leather headrests, Euroliners, DVD, 3 point belts, P/A, air-con, 227,000km, MOT 15/04/14.
COIF and DDA compliant, Euro 3 engine, 28 seats and 16 standing, taxed until end of June and MOT until July, well maintained and ready to work.
POA â&#x20AC;&#x201C; choice of 3
57 reclining seats, air conditioning, one owner from new, 320,000kms, dark moquette leather inset headrests, curtains.
ÂŁ42,000
Phone Nick on 01626 833664 or 07872 839530
Tel: Adrian on 07717 768315
D L O
Wheelchair accessible, MOT July, 7 seats + 1 wheelchair, airbag, 51,000 miles, FSH, SLD, 1 previous owner, Ricon step through lift.
2003 ADL Enviro 300
Burns Coach Tours 01651 851279
ÂŁ65,000+VAT - P/X considered
Telephone Jade Cassidy on 01733 293247 or email jade.cassidy@coachandbusweek.com
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May 22, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 53
" E W F S U J T F B T J O H M F W F I J D M F G P S B T M J U U M F B T c D B M M
08 Plate Scania K340 Irizar Century
09 Plate Volvo B9R Plaxton Panther
Enquiries to John Kerr 00353879898470 or johnny@matthews.ie office hours please
Enquiries to John Kerr 00353879898470 or johnny@matthews.ie office hours please
Scania fitted brand new engine Dec 12 only 40,000km, COIF, 53 seats, ZF auto, Euro4, no Adblue, LEZ compliant, A/C, DVD, mic x2, monitor, tyres 60% ÂŁ110,000 ONO
2006 (56) Ford Transit 17 seat minibus
2.4 diesel, one owner, 40,000 miles.
ÂŁ9,995 + VAT
MAN Fast Carrier
1999 Mercedes Benz 814D Plaxton
1999 Mercedes Benz 814D Plaxton
57 dual purpose seats + 12 standees, 3 point belts, power front and side doors, auto gearbox, double glazed tinted glass and curtains, 238,157 miles.
27 coach seats with 3 point belts, perfect for school bus and private hire, tested April 2014, choice of two â&#x20AC;&#x201C; one manual and one auto.
31 coach seats with 3 point belts, excellent condition throughout, perfect for school and private hire.
ÂŁ92,000
ÂŁ7,995 + VAT Call Karl at Whitegate Travel Tel: 01606 786833 Mobile: 07841 110426
ÂŁ9,450 + VAT Call Karl at Whitegate Travel Tel: 01606 786833 Mobile: 07841 110426
2003 Volvo Jonckheere B12M Mistral 50
2008 Mercedes Benz Sprinter 515
53 passenger seats, 12 months MOT, 527,071kms, interior & exterior in excellent condition, vigorously maintained (records available).
16 seat mini-coach, Onyx conversion, manual gearbox, full spec with racks, lights, blowers, panoramic windows, skirts, wheel trims and large boot, digital tacho, test March 2014, excellent throughout.
Pembridge Vehicle Management 01633 485858
Blythswood Motors 0141 889 9730
2006 Bova Majiq
Marco Polo Iris
49 seat executive, ZF auto, LEZ compliant, leather headrests, twin monitor DVD, centre sunken toilet, tasteful moquette, excellent condition, MOT & taxed.
21 seat wheelchair accessible bus with room for 18 wheelchairs, Euro 4, coach style seats, destination equipment, 300kg capacity tail lift, automatic ZF gearbox.
ÂŁ99,000 + VAT
COIF, 57 seats, I shift gearbox, Euro4 LEZ compliant, A/C, CD, DVD, mic x 2, monitor, wide door for retrofitting disabled access in the future, tyres 60%, 3 point belts, walnut dash. Choice of five available. ÂŁ110,000 ONO
Travelstar European 01922 647100 / 07779 801862
Ventura Sales 01342 835206
ÂŁ49,950 + VAT ono Star Coaches Limited Martin 07831 265804 Adam 0121 350 5555
Iveco 17 seat wheelchair accessible minibus
1999 Volvo B10M Jonckheere
2003 Dennis Trident 2 Alexander ALX 400
Unwin Innotrax floor to take five wheelchairs, underfloor lift, rear heating, tachograph, front entry drop step with slam door, COIF, PSV.
48 reclining seats with retractable belts, monitor, DVD, radio + cassette, rear toilet with rear door, fully sprayed and new stretch panels fitted, good coach, just been to Spain, lovely driver.
ÂŁ40,000
ÂŁ15,495
ÂŁ20,000 + VAT ono
Pembridge Vehicle Management 01633 485858
Paul Watson Travel paul.watson9@btconnect.com
67 seats, Cummins Euro 3 engine, DPF to meet Euro IV, ZF gearbox, DDA compliant, MOT. ÂŁ25,000 + VAT â&#x20AC;&#x201C; CHOICE Southdown PSV 01342 711840 email: bussales@southdownpsv.co.uk www.southdownpsv.co.uk
ÂŁ28,995 + VAT Call Karl at Whitegate Travel Tel: 01606 786833 Mobile: 07841 110426
2005 MERCEDES VARIO 814 WHEELCHAIR ACCESS MINIBUS
4300cc turbo diesel engine, automatic gearbox, analogue tachograph, certificate of initial fitness states 32 passenger seats or 10 wheelchairs and 2 seated, Plaxton Beaver 2, there are 17 seats at present but can be made up to 33, Access underfloor rear tail lift, tracking for 10 wheelchairs, ex-council, 118,000kms/73,000 miles, finished in silver, supplied with 12 months PSV or MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 3 months nationwide parts and labour warranty. ÂŁ22495 + VAT
Ben Weaver Commercials 0114 275 7076
Telephone Jade Cassidy on 01733 293247 or email jade.cassidy@coachandbusweek.com
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54 | COACH & BUS WEEK | May 22, 2013
" E W F S U J T F P O U I F T F Q B H F T B M M Z F B S G S P N K V T U c D B M M 2000 SCANIA T9
2008 MAN Auto Ayat
53 seats, excellent condition, PSV 26/5/13, Taxed 30/4/13, service records. Lovely bus all round and just had an interior re-trim.
51 seat full executive, owned from new, choice of 2, real head turner, used on tour programme, low mileage @ 240,000kms, a lot of coach for the money, looks great and great value at just...
ÂŁ24,750
ÂŁ89,000+VAT - P/X considered
Contact Eric on 07921 389720
Tel: Adrian on 07717 768315
2005 Daf VanHool
2009 Mercedes Tourino
Auto, 49/51 seat executive, purple, immaculate, Webasto, air conditioning, retarder, WC, DVD, reversing camera, hot water, fridge, leather headrests/piping, MOT May 2014, one driver from new, 486,000km. Must sell due to retirement.
Manual, 32-seat executive, purple, Webasto, air conditioning, retarder, WC, DVD McLaren colour seats with leather headrests, spare double seat, must be seen, 211,000km, MOT April 2014. Must sell due to retirement.
ÂŁ85,000
ÂŁ99,500
Burns Coach Tours 01651 851279
Burns Coach Tours 01651 851279
Dennis Dart Plaxton Pointer
VOLVO B12B
2007 MAN Plaxton Panther 49/53 seats, LEZ compliant, toilet, DVD/CD, fridge, hot drinks, Webasto. Only used on our own holidays and excursions. Excellent condition.
ÂŁ90,000 + VAT
Please call Jamie 01730 267543 or 07956 029344 1998 Volvo B10M Jonckheere Mistral
Converted to 70 seater in September using Cogent 3+2 seating all fitted with 3 point belts, MOT till Oct 2013 and has no known defects.
2007 Setra 415GTHD Comfort Class
2003 Futura
375,604 miles, PSV 25/4/13, taxed 31/3/13, full service history.
ÂŁ120,000
ÂŁ109,500
Ventura Sales 01342 835206
Contact William on 07733 914050
Burns Coach Tours 01651 851279
VDL Bova Futura FH
2007 Scania K340/ Caetano Levante
2004 MAN 14.240 SLF MCV Evolution 11.3m
POA
Choice of 2, 49 leather reclining seats, ZF automatic gearbox and retarder, Hanover front, side and rear destinations, WC, air conditioning, PLS magic lift, low mileage, recently refurbished and can be used on National Express network until June 2016.
Arriva Bus & Coach 01274 681144
yourbus â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 01773 714013
ÂŁ5,450 + VAT â&#x20AC;&#x201C; PX considered
Crystals Coaches Ltd 020 8960 8800/07971 000111
SPECIAL OFFER â&#x20AC;&#x201C; ÂŁ8,500
Blue interior, satellite navigation, air conditioning and centre toilet.
MWB hi-roof, wheelchair accessible, MOT July, SLD, 93,000 miles, FSH, Ricon step through lift, full soft trim, tracking, air-con, very tidy throughout.
ÂŁ35,000 Milligans Coach Travel 01290 550365
49 seats, AS Tronic gearbox, Mercedes engine, Euroliners, Ambiente seats, serviced by Mercedes since new, one owner, 302,000kms, MOT Apr 2014. Must sell due to retirement.
39 seats in blue patterned moquette, front, side & rear LED destination, luggage racks, Euro 2, front manual ramp.
2004 Ford Transit T300
39 seats + 21 standees, DDA compliant, Mobitec LED. ÂŁ24,500 + VAT Southdown PSV 01342 711840 email: bussales@southdownpsv.co.uk www.southdownpsv.co.uk
Full exec spec, Eminox euro 4 exhaust, 49 seats, green cloth, manual, 695K kms, new MOT on sale.
ÂŁ65,000 + VAT L.J. Edwards: 01323 440622 option 2 or John 07974 369570
2006 Optare Solo M850
PSV March 2014, taxed December 2013, DDA compliant, 27 seats + 12 standees.
ÂŁ35,000 + VAT ono
For more information please call 01291 625449
Telephone Jade Cassidy on 01733 293247 or email jade.cassidy@coachandbusweek.com
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May 22, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 55
" E W F S U J T F B T J O H M F W F I J D M F G P S B T M J U U M F B T c D B M M 2004 Volvo B12M VanHool T9 Exec
49, 51 or 53 seats, air con, Webasto, Ishift or manual, TV, DVD or video, 3 point seat belts, rear saloon w/c, phone, reversing camera, MOTs till late 2013. ÂŁ57,000 + VAT (manual gearbox)
2003 Setra 315 GTHD
49 seat with retractable belts, low mileage, seat back tables, footrests, centre toilet, power door, air con, webasto, cool box and boiler 2 x monitors and DVD, radio cassette, LEZ exhaust, great drive.
ÂŁ53,500 + VAT ono
2011 Enviro 200 Service Bus
2005 13m Bova Futura
39 seats, choice of 13, but only one for sale! Low miles and clean, only used on P&R. One yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ADL warranty, new MOT, price inc. re-spray (2 colour).
Full executive, 53 reclining seats, good leg room, used on holiday programme, one owner from new, 430,000kms, 12 months MOT.
ÂŁ94,900 ONO + VAT
ÂŁ84,500+VAT - P/X considered
Nigel McCree - 01509 502695
Paul Watson Travel paul.watson9@btconnect.com
Tel: Adrian on 07717 768315
Tel: Adrian on 07717 768315
2006 Mercedes Benz 814 Vario
Mercedes 814D Euro Coach
2006 Mercedes Benz 616 CDI Soroco Plus
New Turas 500
LEZ compliant, manual or auto, Politecnica or Fainsa seats, courier seat option, 3 point belts, air con, power door, dark tinted double glazing, radio/CD/PA, DVD, reverse camera, full draw curtains, extra large luggage boot, Euroliners, 3 year chassis warranty.
24 seats + courier, 3 point belts, luggage racks, reading lights, blown air, private plate, full skirts, wheel trims, very low mileage, test October 2013, stunning condition.
PSV 12/5/13, taxed 30/4/13, full service history.
ÂŁ32,495 + VAT Call Karl at Whitegate Travel Tel: 01606 786833 Mobile: 07841 110426
ÂŁ58,000
POA
POA
Contact William on 07733 914050
Connaught PSV â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 01405 814064
Minis To Midis â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 01302 833203
2003 Mercedes Citaros
Volvo Olympian open top bus
2002 Futura
Alexander Dennis body, P reg (1997), seats 75. Fitted with a PA system, new MOT on purchase. Choice of 5 vehicles.
Full exec spec, Eminox euro 4 exhaust, 49 seats, green cloth, manual, 792K kms, new MOT on sale.
Bath Bus Company 01225 330444
ÂŁ55,000 + VAT L.J. Edwards: 01323 440622 option 2 or John 07974 369570
1998 R REG OPTARE SOLO
POA
38 + 34 standees, LEZ complaint, full DDA, dual door, Hanover LEDs, CCTV, in good condition, very low mileage (240,000 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 260,000 km), 1 yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s MOT. Choice of 6 (5 x 53 plate and 1 x 03 plate). ÂŁ45,000 each + VAT
EnsignBus 01708 865656
yourbus â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 01773 714013
2010 Mercedes Benz Travel 45
Dennis Dart Mini Plaxton Pointer 8.8m
16 reclining seats, 3 point belts, A/C, forced air, reading lights, power door, power step, curtains, coach rear, bi-xenon lights, auto gearbox, 189,000 miles.
MOT till Aug 2013, CCTV cameras, CCTV recorder, manual front, side & rear destination, front ramp, Euro 2, blue patterned moquette.
Mercedes engine, Allison, 30 seats, new MOT.
POA
ÂŁ5,750
Connaught PSV â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 01405 814064
Ventura Sales 01342 835206
16 Fainsa seats, 3 point belts, seat back tables, A/C, D/G, forced air, reading lights, power door, large boot, fridge, DVD, new re-spray, 280,000 kms.
Take the photos, write the ad and change it later if you want to, all from your online dashboard. Selling a vehicle is simple on . . .
Telephone Jade Cassidy on 01733 293247 or email jade.cassidy@coachandbusweek.com
681335-1088-Ensign:Layout 1
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Ensig DOUBLE DECK 85
SEAT S
2000 DENNIS TRIDENTS Alexander ALX400 bodies, converted to high capacity 85 seat school buses.
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
1999 T/V REG DENNIS TRIDENTS
1999 T/V REG DENNIS DART SLF’S
Cummins/Voith, LEZ compliant with traps, Plaxton President bodies, 62 seats dual door (£13,000) or 70 when converted to single door (£16,000).
80 seats, Voith gearboxes, Euro 2 engines with traps, or full Euro 3 with traps, Plaxton President bodies, can be DDA with 78 seats.
2000 VOLVO B7TL’S
2001 Y REG VOLVO B7TL’S
Euro 3 engines with traps, 8.8M long, Marshall bodies, 25 seats, DDA.
SWB, CCTV, particulate traps so LEZ compliant, Plaxton President bodies, dual door 62 seats or single door 71 seats.
Caetano Compass bodies, 39 seats, ramps.
Euro 3 with traps, DDA, LWB, Plaxton bodies, 67 seats as 2 doors or 78 once converted to single door.
1999 VOLVO B7TL’S
2002 DENNIS DARTS
2001 Y REG DENNIS DARTS
Plaxton Pointer 2 bodies, 10.1m , Cummins Euro 2 engines, DDA, 31 seats, CCTV, particulate traps fitted, LEZ compliant, only £6000 each plus tyres.
2002 52 PLATE VOLVO B7TL’S DDA and LEZ, 70 seats, Euro 3, £24000 plus VAT.
OPEN TOP BUSES A SPECIALITY -
Juliette Close, Purfleet Industrial Telephone 01708 865656 Fax: 01708 8 Visit our website for current s
681335-1088-Ensign:Layout 1
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nbus
K ER SPECIALIST ZF auto, East Lancs Myllenium bodies, SLF, 46 seats
2000 W REG DAF SB220’S
ZF 6 speed manual, Plaxton Premiere 350, 53 seats.
1998 R REG DENNIS JAVELIN
2003 Enviro 300, Euro 3 Cummins ISC engine, ZF auto, 12m , DDA, 44 seats.
2003 ENVIRO 300
Euro 4, Plaxton Panther bodies, 15m, 65 seats, toilet, DDA, front wheelchair lift, Hanover LED's all round.
2007 VOLVO B12BT’s
51 and 02 plate, Cummins Euro 3 ISC engines, LEZ, Plaxton President bodies, can be DDA, single door and 78 seats, or dual door 67 seats.
2001/2002 DENNIS TRIDENTS
1997 VOLVO B10M
Automatic, Plaxton Premiere 320, brand new 70 seat conversion, new MOT.
1998 R REG VOLVO B10BLE’S
Voith automatic gearboxes, SLF, Alexander ALX300 bodies, 44 seats and 27 standing, heavy duty low floor buses. They can also be converted to be DDA compliant.
Cummins / Allison, Plaxton Pointer body, 39 seats, long MOT.
1997 P REG DART SLF
2002 02 PLATE DENNIS TRIDENTS
Euro 3 Cummins engines, DDA compliant , Plaxton President bodies, Hanover LED’s, 67 seats converted to single door or 62 seats as dual door.
2007 56 PLATE SCANIA OMNICITY
41 seats, 12m, DDA compliant, long MOT.
2005 VOLVO B7RLE’S
ZF automatic, Wrights Eclipse, 43 seats, DDA, Mobitech LED’s, long MOT’s.
- BRITAIN’S BIGGEST BUS DEALERS Park, Purfleet, Essex, RM15 4YF 8 864340 e-mail: sales@ensignbus.com t stock at www.ensignbus.com
697131-1088-Stafford
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682251-1088-Ventura
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697144-1088-Heatons
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HEATONS MOTOR CO. WIGAN THE NORTH WEST’S PREMIER MINIBUS SALES, SUPPLYING NATIONWIDE FOR OVER 40 YEARS L 08 IVECO 50C15
W• Only covered 64,000 mls • 16
high back passenger seats • Lots of Unwin tracking • Full air conditioning • Power door • Front entry • External fully automatic tail lift • Plant on panoramic tinted glass • Totally showroom condition inside and out • Will come with 12 months PSV test • Tremendous LEZ value £17,995
WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE
WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE
56 IVECO 50C15
• Covered 80,000 mls • One council owner • 15 /16 high PSV’d back passenger seats • Lots of Unwin tracking • Full length cant rail • External PLS fully automatic tailift • Front low step entry • Totally showroom condition inside and out LEZ £14,495
WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE
06 VOLKSWAGEN BLUEBIRD TUCAN
56 VAUXHALL MOVANO LWB • Covered 58,000 mls • 8 highback passenger seats • Lots of Unwin tracking • Ricon internal Clearway tailift • SLD with cassette step • Exceptionally clean • Excellent value £8,995 LEZ
WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE
• Features 8 high back passenger seats • Lots of Unwin tracking • Ricon internal Clearway tailift • Low mileage • SLD with cassette step • Totally showroom condition inside and out • Large choice £13,995
LEZ L
WERE DO YOU FIND THESE 08 VOLKSWAGEN CRAFTER MELLOR COACHBUILT
WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE
PSV’d
• 16 high back passenger seats in soft trim with contrasting centre panel • Complete flat floor • Ricon internal fully automatic tail lift • Power door with low step entry • Full panoramic tinted windows • Drives and looks like new • Will come with LEZ 12 mths PSV test
WERE DO YOU FIND THESE 98 DENNIS WADHAM STRINGER CAETANO
PSV’d
• Covered 86,000 mls PSV’d • Fitted with 14 high back passenger seats in soft trim • Power door • Front entry • Wheelchair accessible • 2.5td • Manual gearbox • Very, very clean and drives superb • 12 months LEZ PSV test • Excellent value £13,995
WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE
08 VAUXHALL MOVANO LWB
WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE
• Fitted with 70 high back Cogent seats with 3 point belts • PSV tested • Drives and looks superb • Ready to work • Giving excellent value £17,995
07 IVECO 50C15
WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE
PSV’d
57 FORD TRANSIT LWB HIGHROOF
• Only covered mls • One local charity owner • 12 highback passenger seats • 3 pointbelts • Lots of Unwin tracking • SLD with cassette step • External fully automatic Ratcliffe tailift • Totally has new in every way £13,995
• Fitted with 14 high back passenger seats • Lots of Unwin tracking • Only covered 54,000 mls • PLS internal clearway tailift • Power door • Front entry • Totally totally immaculate • COIF and will come with 12 mths PSV test £16,995
LEZ
WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE
LEZ
ALL PRICES PLUS VAT
06 MERCEDES SPRINTER 411 CDi
WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE
• Covered 63,000 mls • External PLS cassette tailift • SLD with cassette step • 12 high back passenger seats plus wheelchair spaces • Lots of Unwin tracking • Euroliners • Totally immaculate in every way LEZ £13,995
57 VOLKSWAGEN CRAFTER LWB
WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE
• Covered 60,000 mls • 15/16 high back passenger seats • Lots of Unwin tracking • SLD with cassette step • External fully automatic cassette tail lift • Drives and looks like new • Tremendous value LEZ • Complete flat floor £17,995 L
54 MERCEDES VARIO 814 MELLOR COACH BUILT
WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE
• 32 high back passenger seats all on Unwin tracking • Full air conditioning • Power door • Front low step entry • External PLS cassette tail lift • Automatic gearbox • PSV tested • Exceptionally clean LEZ £21,995 PSV’d
08 IVECO 45C15
• Only covered 32,000 mls • 16 high back passenger seats in soft trim with contrasting headlining • Lots of Unwin tracking • Full air conditioning • Panoramic plant on tinted windows • Power door • Front entry • Showroom condition inside and out £17,995 LEZ
We guarantee quality vehicles, right prices, no pressure sales. Come and have a coffee while you browse at your leisure. Junction 23, M6 or 20 miles from Manchester/Liverpool airport.
HEATONS MOTOR CO. WIGAN 53 Bickershaw Lane, Abram, Wigan, Lancashire WN2 5PL
Tel: 01942 864222 SEE ALL OUR STOCK ON OUR WEBSITE www.heatonsmotorco.co.uk
697142-1088-Blythswood
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697066-1088-Pickrell
H. W. PICKRELL
20/5/13
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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_pickrell
58 REG RENAULT MASTER LM 35 2.5TD
NEW UN REG IVECO DAILY 50c17 IRIS BUS 3.0
60 REG FORD TRANSIT 330 2.4TDCI
57 REG RENAULT MASTER M M33 2.5TD
Manual 6 speed, high roof, PAS, LWB, O & H conversion, side loading door, side step, 8-14 high back seats, fully tracked Unwin floor, Ricon tail lift, Eberspacher heater, ex NHS, only 31,199 miles.
Agile gearbox, high roof, PAS, LWB, tacho, power front entry door, 16 rear high back seats, Unwin Innotrax flat floor, underfloor Ratcliff t/lift, COIF/IVA to take up to 5 wheelchairs.
6 speed manual gearbox, high roof, PAS, MWB, tacho, SL door, 12 rear standard factory high back seats, no tracking (can be fitted), underfloor Ratcliff tail lift, one owner local charity, 20,104kms.
Manual gearbox, high roof, Gleneagles conversion, PAS, SLD, electric side step, 8 removable rear high back seats (10 seats in total) plus driver, air con, Unwin tracking & Solo system fitted, Ricon tail lift, 22,487 miles.
08 REG RENAULT MASTER MM33 2.5TD
57 REG VAUXHALL MOVANO M M33 2.5TD
58 REG FORD TRANSIT TOURNEO CONNECT 1.8 HDI
09 REG RENAULT MASTER LM35 2.5 TD
Manual gearbox, CD, electric windows & mirrors, a/c, twin side loading doors, high back seat in rear, single passenger seat, cut out floor, lowering air suspension, fold down ramp, Gowerings conversion, only 8,600 miles.
Manual, semi high roof factory bus conversion, side entry slam door with low entry step, 14 x high back seats plus driver, air con, ex lease, only 32,997 kms.
Manual, high roof, PAS, LWB, Atlas conversion, twin side loading door, AVS side step, 6 high back seats, Unwin Inotrac tested floor, Ricon tail lift, ex local authority, 30,383 miles.
6 speed manualgear box, MWB, high roof, PAS, twin side loading door, side step, 9 seats plus driver plus 1 x wheelchair, heater, Unwin tracked floor, Ricon tail lift, 39,191 miles only.
10 REG RENAULT MASTER LM 35 2.5TD
57 REG CITROEN RELAY 2.5TD
08 REG RENAULT MASTER LM35 2.5TD
57 REG FORD TRANSIT 100, 350 2.4T DCI
Manual 6 speed, high roof, PAS, LWB, O & H conversion side loading door, fold out side step, 8 high back seats, fully tracked Unwin floor, Ricon tail lift (extra long platform), Eberspacher heater, ex NHS, only 16,494 miles.
Manual gearbox, high roof, PAS, LWB, O&H conversion, SLD, AVS side step, 9 seats plus driver plus 1 x wheelchair space, Unwin tracking, Eberspacher heater, Ricon tail lift, ex local authority, 21,647 miles.
Manual gearbox, high roof, O & H conversion, PAS, side loading door, AVS side step, 8 high back seats plus 2 x w/chairs & driver, Unwin tracked floor, ricon internal tail lift, 33,175 miles only.
Manual, MWB, high mroof, PAS, SCW conversion, side loading door, side step, 8 high back seats, fully Unwin tracked floor, Dash ac, Eberspacher heater, Ratcliff underfloor tail lift, 11,092 miles only.
59 REG RENAULT MASTER LM 35 2.45TD
2009 59 REG VAUXHALL VIVARO SL28 2.0 TD
2008 57 REG MERCEDES SPRINTER 311 2.2CDI
58 REG IVECO DAILY 50C13 IRIS BUS 3. 0
Manual 6 speed, high roof, PAS, LWB, O & H conversion, side loading door, side step, 8-14 high back seats, fully tracked Unwin floor, Ricon tail lift, Eberspacher heater, ex NHS, only 12,695 miles.
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.
6 speed manual gearbox, semi high roof, PAS, MWB, SLD, 14 high back seats including driver, Bluetooth & sat nav, air con, elec windows & mirrors, electric side step, Unwin tracking, Ricon tail lift, 39,834 miles.
Auto gearbox, high roof, PAS, LWB, tacho, power door, 16 rear high back seats (17 seats in total), AMF tracked flat floor, Eberspacher heater, full air con, PLS tail lift, COIF, 49,381 miles only.
07 REG VOLKSWAGEN CRAFTER CR50 UVG TREKA
57 REG PEUGEOT BOXER 2.5TD
07 REG RENAULT MASTER LM35 2.5TD
08 REG FORD TRANSIT 430 2.4T DCI
Auto gearbox, 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, 81,280 kms.
Manual gearbox, high roof, PAS, LWB, O&H conversion SLD, AVS side step, 8 rear high back seats plus 1 x wheelchair space, Unwin tracking, Eberspacher heater, Ricon tail lift, ex local authority, 20,286 miles.
Manual, PAS, LWB, O & H conversion PTS ambulance, SLD, fold out side step, 6-8 rear high back seats, wipe clean interior, lowering suspension, Unwin tracking, Eberspacher heater, choice of two, 72,000-79,000 miles.
Manual gearbox, semi high roof, PAS, LWB, tacho, side loading door, 17 high back seats including driver, electric windows, Bluetooth, COIF, PSV tested till September 2013, metallic silver, Euroliners, 84,407kms.
06 REG M ERCEDES SPRINT ER 411 CDI
06 REG MERCEDES SPRINTER 413 CDI UVK TREKA
08 REG FORD TRANSIT 430 JUMBO 2.4 TDCI
58 REG IVECO DAILY 50C13 IRIS BUS 3. 0
Manual gearbox, LWB, PAS, O & H conversion, n/s full height manual door, 16 high back removable seats, Eberspacher heater, PLS underfloor t/lift, ex local authority, COIF'd,103,080 kms, PSV tested till March 2014.
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.
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, tacho, 34,955 miles.
Manual gearbox, high roof, PAS, LWB, tacho, power door, 16 rear high back seats (17 seats in total), Unwin tracked floor, Eberspacher heater, Ratcliff tail lift, COIF, 63,371 miles, PSV tested till March 2014.
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MINICOACHES ALBION HOUSE 16–18 ALBION STREET WILLENHALL WEST MIDLANDS WV13 21NJ TEL: 01902 631507 FAX: 01902 630791
sales@ukminicoaches.co.uk
www.ukminicoaches.co.uk
2008 ‘08’ Ford Transit 17 Seater 140BHP Minibus
A superb vehicle all round, the Transit offers some nice benefits for a minibus. Passengers have comfortable full size seats complete with three point seat belt and head rest. The interior is spacious and airy. This vehicle is fitted with a digital tachograph, tow-bar with butterfly step and reversing audible warning bleeper. For that school contract or for any social group, the Transit is the leader of the pack. Only 40,000 miles. Price £12,495 + VAT
May 22, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 63
Due to fleet replacement
FOR SALE BY TENDER
2003 ‘53’ Volkswagen LT 46 14 seat W/C Minibus
S
D L O
A superb vehicle all round with fresh white paint, this vehicle is ideal for all of those wheelchair contracts. Features underfloor tail lift, power entry door, flat floor, all seats on tracking. COIF can be applied for at cost if required. Analogue Tacho fitted. Price £7,995 + VAT
2002 ‘52’ Ford Transit 17 Seater Minibus
An absolutely stunning vehicle. With only two owners from new, this Ford Transit has been kept in tip top condition and drives as well as it looks. ABS, dual Aairbags, PAS, 16 high back passenger seats with 3 point belts and head rests, rear step, side loading door and rear opening windows. Unusually, there is an analogue tachograph fitted even though it has been run on a Class V MOT. A COIF can be arranged if required at cost. Price £5,995 + VAT
All Commercial Trading Ltd T/A UK Minicoaches OPENING HOURS MONDAY TO FRIDAY 9.00 AM TILL 5.00 PM
64 x ‘AV’ BUS x Volvo B7TL DD / Alexander (Falkirk & Belfast) ‘ALX400’ Double Deck (Year 2000, Volvo D7C-215 / ZF4HP502C) Single Door. Seating Capacity: U/S 49, L/S 26 & W/Chair or 27 + 15 Standees
TRAVELBILLITY 2005 Mellor 33 seats with boot, forced air, analogue tacho, 260,000kms, MOT 10/2013
2000 (X) 413 CDI Sprinter
Sprintronic g/box, COIF for 16 seats or 6 W/C, private plate, UVG Modular
2005 Plaxton Beaver 2006 Mellor 28 seats or 9 W/C, 29 seats, large boot, automative, climate air con, analogue control, 98,000kms, tacho, 287,000kms, MOT 09/2013 MOT 10/2013
2006 Mellor COIF for 20 seats, external tail lift, fully tracked flat floor
2005 (55) Fiat Ducato 2.0 diesel, 4 seats and 2 W/C, fully tracked floor, ramp
All prices + VAT FINANCE CAN BE ARRANGED
Please call 01934 515511 or email info@travelbillity.com Location 2 minutes from J21 M5
3 x ‘WV’ BUS x Volvo B6BLE / Wrights Crusader Single Deck Buses
(Year 2000, Volvo D6A / ZF4HP500) Passenger Capacity: 35 seats & 20 standees. All the above are Super low floor with powered wheelchair ramp and space and are fitted with ‘Fogmaker’ fire suppression equipment.
ALL VEHICLES WILL BE SOLD AS SEEN AND COME WITH TYRES INCLUDED IN SALE To arrange to view the vehicles or to request a Tender form, please contact:
Chris Quinlan, Procurement Manager on 00 353 1 7033472 chris.quinlan@dublinbus.ie or Paul Duffy, Procurement Department on 00 353 1 7033474 paul.duffy@dublinbus.ie during office hours.
Bidders may offer for one, some or all of the vehicles. CLOSING DATE FOR RECEIPT OF SEALED BIDS: 17.00Hrs on Friday, June 7th 2013.
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64 | COACH & BUS WEEK | May 22, 2013
The Transport Man 07802 803527
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CPC Na onal Qualified I Business Strategies Scheduling Appraisals I Public Inquiry Assistance I Maintenance Audits I Former Licence Holder O en licence holders cannot see the wood for the trees Let someone on the outside help you on the inside. I I
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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
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PHOTOS AND FULL COLOUR AS STANDARD ON ALL VEHICLE FOR SALE ADVERTISEMENTS
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+44(0)1524 271200 www.checkpoint-safety.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
DAF MAN MERC, VOLVO SCANIA, GARDNER LEYLAND, CUMMINS ENGINES CYLINDER HEADS CRANKSHAFTS CRANKCASES CAMSHAFTS PUMPS ETC
Moorfields Industrial Estate, Cotes Heath, Stoke-on-Trent ST21 6QY
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May 22, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 65
ENGINES
INSURANCE
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
EXHAUSTS
LEZ BOXES FOR SALE 3 x used Eminox LEZ exhaust boxes, used for 6 months 2012. Cleaned/reconditioned. To fit a Bova Futura. With full fitting kit or can be fitted while you wait! £3,000 each + VAT
PARNHAMS COACHES LTD Contact Ray 07747 071071
FLEET SALES
PARTS
RETIRING or
CHANGING YOUR FLEET?
Contact Malcolm Harrison Auctions
01630 674326
auctions@malcolmharrison.co.uk MALCOLM HARRISON AUCTIONS
• Full UK coverage • Same day local delivery
FINANCE
• Next day national delivery • Official Irizar part distributor
Innovative funding solutions to fit every business. We specialise in raising funds for all types of companies from sole traders to PLCs.
• All manufacturer parts supplier
As a specialist business funder, Huxley Corporate Finance can provide your company with a wide range of finance facilities including the following:
• Equipment Finance • Vehicle Finance • Cash Flow • Mortgages • Company Acquisition • Capital Release Scheme • Vehicle Sourcing
Call the team to discuss your current financial requirements on 01829 730062
• Fast, efficient & 24/7
Tel: 01909 511349 www.master-part.co.uk REGISTRATIONS 65A High Street, Tarporley, Cheshire, CW6 0DP T 01829 730062 F 01829 730063 E info@huxleycf.co.uk www.huxleycf.co.uk
£750 50 LXJ DRZ 40 GUI 38 IAZ 49 LAZ 87 MHZ 25 RUI 46 SNZ 55 UIB 69
£350 AJZ 626 BIG 663 CEZ 838 JBZ 686 RBZ 696 SCZ 949 VIW 848 WJI 848 XIB 646
£99 EXZ 1611 EXZ 1612 FRZ 5515 HIG 3236 JIG 7991 JIG 7992 KIG 6606 LIG 1611 LIG 1612
Buy with confidence – CNDA Member We buy for cash, also Part Exchange
£99 MJZ 6735 RHZ 1393 RHZ 1394 SNZ 1158 SNZ 1159 SUI 7678 TJZ 1119 UUI 2225 UUI 2226
£50 CXZ 4471 DXZ 4505 ERZ 8733 EXZ 1603 EXZ 1604 FRZ 2035 FRZ 2036 JFZ 8762 LIG 2282
£50 LIG 2283 NFZ 3212 RHZ 1425 RHZ 1426 RNZ 9198 SNZ 3885 SNZ 3886 TUI 7996 UUI 2848
Tel: 028 6638 7124 • www.speedyreg.co.uk Millwo od, L isbellaw, Co. Fermanagh, N. Ireland B T94 5HQ
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66 | COACH & BUS WEEK | May 22, 2013
TRAINING
TRIM
PCV Driver CPC courses available each month Courses £49.99 + VAT CPC Emergency First Aid £75.00 + VAT (inc 2 year qualification) No added extras Discount for booking online
& West Coast Trim Ltd
• Interior & Exterior Refurbishment • Bodybuilding • Repairs • Conversions including Paramount • Reconditioning • Spray painting • Re-fitment
We’re here when you need us Contact us on 01529 414242 / 303333 or visit: www.sleafordian-holidays.co.uk PVC DRIVER CPC TRAINING CREATED BY A COACH COMPANY FOR THE COACHING INDUSTRY
THE DRIVER CPC IS HERE SAME DAY J.A.U.P.T. REGISTRATION SAME DAY C.P.C. CERTIFICATES DELIVERED AT YOUR OWN DEPOTS
REMEMBER-REMEMBER 10th SEPTEMBER WE WILL HOLD OUR PRICES FOR 5 YEARS
PCV DRIVER HIRE 0800-731-5007 CORPORATE DEALS AVAILABLE
MERIDIAN PCV DRIVER LTD Rising above all others
www.meridianpcv.com
Driver CPC Periodic Training
Extensive work to rear & side panel carried out by us
Our experienced and highly skilled teams create visually stunning vehicle refurbishments and conversions, engineered to the highest standards, call us to discuss your requirements.
0125 3 698686 www.blackpoolcoachservices.co.uk
COACH TRIMMERS LTD
Supplying the Bus and Coach Industry with quality seat retrims and interior refurbishment. Full floors re-laid and centre gangways.
If you would like further information please call 01543 897505 or visit www.lloydmorgangroup.co.uk
Collection and delivery service anywhere in the UK, seven days a week.
Email: info@eastgate-coachtrimmers.co.uk Web: www.eastgate-coachtrimmers.co.uk
Tel/Fax: 01751 472229
7L PH L V PRQH\ 8SO RDG \ RXU Y H KL F O H DG L Q D PDW W H U RI PL QXW H V DQG L Q QR W L PH DW DO O W KH F DO O V F RXO G EH F RPL QJ L Q
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May 22, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 67
TYRE EQUIPMENT
VEHICLE SPARES
Passenger and Commercial Vehicles Recovery Dismantlers Parts Sales OUR SERVICES: • • • • • • • • • •
Recovery
Refurbishment Testing
Repairs
Engine/gearbox rebuilds Fault finding
Buying & selling vehicles
DISMANTLING/SPARES: • • • • • •
Reconditioned engines Reconditioned gearboxes Engine spares Windows
Windscreens Seats
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
Export to foreign markets Repairs
Finance repossession and storage
CALL: 01226 727 769 Bus sales: www.geoff-ripleysbuscoachsales.com Geoff Ripley, Boulder Lane (off Shaw Lane), Carlton, Barnsley S71 3HJ
Mob: 07912 103 497 or 07711 750 434 Fax: 01226 727 607 Email: geoff-ripley@btconnect.com
Call 01226 723147 Night Service 01226 716479 Fax 01226 700199 Email wigleys@btconnect.com
www.twigley.com
68 | COACH & BUS WEEK | May 22, 2013
Seen something funny? Send it to gareth.evans@coachandbusweek.com or write to: Last Stop, Coach & Bus Week, 3 The Office Village, Cygnet Park, Forder Way, Hampton, Peterborough PE7 8GX
Ambiguous signs – don’t you just love them? This fine example was spotted by our Gareth on his morning ‘school run’ (taking his better half to work) here in Peterborough. The board appears in a window of the Paston & Gunthorpe Community Centre each week and always makes Sarah and Gareth chuckle. Yes, we know it’s advertising ‘Cash Bingo’ but what’s with the ‘7 – 25’? Is it the time or the entry fee? Either way, it’s a random number. After all, as any bus driver will tell you, a requirement for 5p coins can be a nightmare. Assuming, it’s the time, why not just the bingo kick off at 1930hrs? The seven to 25 age group is also out of the question, one assumes. Could it be the prize money? Some might argue that’s taking things into the sort of territory which sees half a jelly being given as a prize in a raffle, as your Editor’s late grandmother was once a recipient of in a social club... All good fun.
Monday: Press day. Another fairly early finish as we manage to escape the office by 1800hrs. Tuesday: Catch the train down to London to cover the limo safety event in Covent Garden (see p48). I ensure I’m there in ample time to get pics before the crowds arrive. As is often the case at such events, feature ideas are mooted. Wednesday: Spend the day writing up my limo copy, chasing news and subbing.
Air India shows world is not ready for pilotless planes An Air India passenger jet was forced to make an emergency landing on May 15 after its pilot was locked out of his own cockpit while using the toilet. The sight of the captain of a Delhi-Bangalore flight trying in vain to get through the cockpit door certainly caused quite a stir among passengers, leaving his stranded copilot to divert the plane to Bhopal. This isn’t the first Air India error which looks like it has come straight out of one of the Airplane! spoof films. Last month two pilots were suspended after they allowed a stewardess to sit in the captain’s
Dilbert
seat. While there she accidentally switched off the auto-pilot button while the captain and apparently the co-pilot were both sleeping in business class, having occupied the cockpit for 40 minutes. This in turn had followed yet another incident earlier this year where a pilot was found to be drunk before boarding a plane to fly it. And the rabbit hole goes even deeper – in 2010 a number of Indian pilots were found to have fake licences. It’s no small wonder that in March this year a UN report said India was among the worst 13 countries on the world for air safety.
In a statement, Air India confirmed the (latest) incident but claimed the passengers were never at risk. “The pilot left the cockpit for a short while to visit the toilet. On returning, he found the door locked. “All efforts to open it even from inside failed. The co-pilot, after taking permission from ground control, diverted the flight to Bhopal and landed at 1755hrs. The flight took off from Bhopal at 2045hrs after clearance and reached Bangalore at 2230hrs. “All precautions and procedures regarding safety were observed during the entire process. The incident posed no danger to the aircraft passengers and the crew.” Whether passengers were at risk or not, the whole thing seems plane stupid…
Thursday: With the missing pieces of the jigsaw in place, Art Director Keith designs my limo piece. Enjoy a long overdue catch up with Dean Marshall at Marshalls of Leighton Buzzard. Also speak to a what turns out to be a friendly Somerset coach operator for the first time. Nip to Tesco. Much to amusement of the checkout staff, redeem my voucher for 36p. I can’t help but try justify myself: “You lot are always banging on about every little helps and if I don’t use it, the scheme will be withdrawn.” Recalling it to Sarah over our evening meal, she tells I’m getting far more blunt as I get older. In the evening, drive to my parents in the Welsh borderland. Friday: Enjoy a visit to Lloyds Coaches in Machynlleth for an ‘Operator Profile’. Heading back east, call by to see my nain (nan in Welsh), who is very much on form. As is routine, I enjoy a brew and a couple of slices of bara brith (fruit cake). The cats are also pleased to see me – they come running to me when I go outside into the farmyard to take a couple of work calls on my mobile. Catch up with Western Greyhound’s Mark Howarth, who understandably sounds all in. Tell him I haven’t called him until now as I know from personal experience that speaking to the trade press is the last thing he would have wanted to do. A weekend with my parents beckons.
www.coachandbusweek.com
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RECRUITMENT & people
May 22, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 69
In association with
Deadlines Booking: Monday 5.00pm Full artwork: Monday 5.00pm Contact Ian Gillis T: 01733 293484 E: ian.gillis@coachandbusweek.com
New Operations Manager for Stagecoach Nuneaton Peter Knight, 25, has been appointed Operations Manager at Stagecoach Midlands’ Nuneaton bus depot. He joined Stagecoach in September 2010 on the Graduate Management Development Programme and was based initially at the Stagecoach depot in Chesterfield. After a successful first year, which involved working
Peter Knight
in the Operations, Commercial and Engineering functions of the business, he moved to Stockton-onTees depot as Assistant Operations Manager until August 2012. On completion of the Graduate Programme, Peter then spent three months at the company’s Oxford depot as Commercial Assistant and a further three months at Stagecoach Merseyside and South Lancashire, where he was responsible for overseeing the transition of the two former FirstGroup businesses at Chester and Birkenhead to Stagecoach ownership, putting various Stagecoach systems and procedures in place. Peter previously worked part time in the Travel Shop while at Southampton University dealing with passenger and ticketing enquiries on behalf of the Universities’ operator, Uni-Link.
ENGAGEMENT EVENT
Hampshire County Council (HCC) Public Bus Supplier Engagement Morning HCC invite you to an engagement event on the benefits of operating Public Bus contracts for them.The event will take place on the 5th July 2013 10:00 – 13:00 in Elizabeth II Court, Sussex Street,Winchester, Hampshire, SO23 8UT. The format of the morning will be : Various stands offering information on topics such as: • • • • •
Public Bus legislation and Registration Confederation of Passenger Transport, how they can help you Concessionary Fares Publicity The role of the Passenger Transport Team
In addition two breakout sessions will take place: 10.30 – 11.30 “Barriers to entry - Myths and Facts” How can HCC help you to reduce barriers and help you move into the Public Bus Market. 11.45 – 12.45 “How we tender for Public Bus routes in Hampshire” How to gain entry to our tendering process, bid for routes and how we can support you. If you would like to book a place on the event, and / or book a place on the breakout sessions, or further information please contact: passengertransportprojects@hants.gov.uk
Network & Schedules Manager London, £35-40k
HCT Group is an award-winning social enterprise in the transport industry, operating from depots in London, West Yorkshire, Humberside, Bristol and the Channel Islands. We deliver a range of high quality transport services – from London red buses to social services transport, from school transport to Park and Ride, from community transport to education and training. We reinvest the surplus from our commercial work back into further transport services or high-impact projects in the communities we serve. We are seeking to recruit a Network and Schedules Manager to construct, analyse, and improve our Networks and schedules for greater quality and efficiency and ensure that HCT Group’s services are scheduled in a safe, punctual, reliable and cost effective manner. Reporting to the Strategic Development Manager, the postholder will work directly with the operations team, management, and the Performance Director. The postholder will also oversee the seasonal changes and network development in a variety of challenging and rewarding contexts including the networks in Jersey, Guernsey and our red bus operation in London amongst others. The post will also be involved in the development of tenders and business opportunities for growth and retention. The successful candidate will have a proven track record in the construction, vetting, and analysis of schedules and networks; significant experience working within the Omni suite (OmniTimes, Base, Crew plan, Map, Stop, Rota, Das) or similar systems; and strong financial understanding with the ability to develop and demonstrate the cost benefit of different network proposals. For the full job description and person specification job description, please visit www.hctgroup.org/jobs. No agencies please. To apply for this role, please email Patrick Reyburn at patrickreyburn@hctgroup.org, with a covering letter and your CV. Closing date for applications is 5pm, June 7th 2013.
www.coachandbusweek.com
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Area Traffic Manager Midlands and North East
Alfa Coaches is the coach operating division of the Alfa/Leisureplex Holiday group, which operates 48 touring coaches and is responsible for the regular hire of third party vehicles. Based at our modern offices near Chorley, this key position carries responsibility for the operation of our programme of coach holidays from the Midlands and North East of England through the use of our own regional fleets and the hiring of large numbers of vehicles from independent operators. You will report directly to the Operations Director, Alfa Coaches and you will work as an integral part of the Traffic Team, which includes two other Area Managers. Responsibilities include all aspects of driver management from training to disciplinary, liaising with maintenance/engineering companies, planning feeder routes and negotiation with coach hire suppliers to achieve our price and quality criteria. You will need strong administrative skills and be prepared to work summer weekends on a rota basis. You will be a CPC holder with a thorough grasp of the relevant legislation and at least 2 years’ experience in a similar role within the coaching or wider transport industry. The ideal candidate will be a highly driven and motivated individual whose energy and commitment will ensure high quality standards which are synonymous with Alfa. Salary on a scale of £26,000-£33,000 plus a substantial profit related bonus scheme and discounted holiday entitlement at Leisureplex hotels. To apply, please send your CV and covering letter to Alan Scoles, Operations Director, Alfa Coaches, Euxton Lane, Chorley, PR7 6AF. Email: alan.scoles@alfatravel.co.uk Closing date: 31 May 2013
FLEET MAINTENANCE MANAGER As a multi award winning family run company, established for over 100 years, we are seeking a Fleet Maintenance Manager to manage our highly skilled and motivated workshop team based in Henley-in-Arden, Warwickshire. Reporting to the Directors you will have a proven track record in the PCV Industry/fleet management and an indepth knowledge of preventative maintenance procedures, VOSA requirements and Health & Safety Legislation. You will possess effective communication skills, strong leadership qualities and demonstrate a ‘can do’ attitude. Attention to detail, work allocation and budget management are also key skills for success in this role. A competitive package is available for the right candidate. To see the full job description visit our website – www.johnsonscoaches.co.uk To apply please send your CV and covering letter to Mr Peter Johnson at Liveridge House, Liveridge Hill, Henley-inArden, Warwickshire, B95 5QS. Or apply by email to stephs@johnsonscoaches.co.uk. Closing date is 24th May, 2013
‘Travel with Johnsons – Travel with Friends’
HASSLE-FREE DRIVERS? Hire coach drivers when you need them. No holiday, no absence, no NI – pay only for the hours you need them for. We keep your wheels turning while your drivers are resting.
Call Del Haggerty Just Coach Drivers Ltd 07950 292939 www.justcoachdrivers.com
www.coachandbusweek.com
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RECRUITMENT & people
May 22, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 71
In association with
Deadlines Booking: Monday 5.00pm Full artwork: Monday 5.00pm Contact Ian Gillis T: 01733 293484 E: ian.gillis@coachandbusweek.com
Two new directors for SYPTE South Yorkshire Passenger Transport Executive (SYPTE) is now jointly managed by two directors following the departure of Director General David Brown. Ben Still and David Young will share the Director General responsibilities until such time as a permanent appointment is made to fill the top post. David Brown has left SYPTE to join Merseytravel as its Director General/Chief Executive. Ben is to become Interim Director General and will also continue to fulfil his current duties as Chief Executive for the Sheffield City Region. David, as Interim Deputy Director General, takes on more operational responsibilities. He is currently SYPTE’s Director of Customer Experience. The arrangements are expected
cilt welcomes new board members The results of the Board Elections of The Chartered Institute of Logistics & Transport - CILT (UK) - have been revealed. The professional body said it was ‘pleased to welcome three highly-talented and influential new members to the board, and the return of three equally well-known and effective members who were seeking re-election’. The new members are Alan Jones
to be in place for approximately 11 months until arrangements for a ‘Combined Authority’ are known and finalised. While Ben has responsibility for rail matters, David will oversee the introduction of smart ticketing and develop more Bus Partnerships. He will also progress major funded projects, including the BBA, Local Sustainable Transport Fund and the Tram-Train rail project. Commenting on his new role, Ben said: “I am looking forward to working across both the LEP and SYPTE while arrangements to support the City Region Authority are developed by the SCR Leaders Board and the Integrated Transport Authority.”
Ben Still (left) and David Young FCILT, Robbie Whitfield FCILT MBE and Christopher Hutchinson FCILT. Together with the reappointment of Martin Evans MILT and David Grahamslaw FCILT and the return of former Board Member Bernard Auton FCILT they bring experience in logistics and the supply chain, the bus and aviation industries, human resources, shipping, defence, humanitarian aid and education. CILT CEO Steve Agg FCILT said: “I wish to thank everyone who stood for election. In a volunteer organisation this democratic process has a vital part to play in involving members and ultimately shaping the future of the Institute.”
Arriva buses. Here to take you there.
Drive your career...
General Manager – Redcar & Whitby Arriva, part of the Deutsche Bahn group, is one of the largest transport services organisations in Europe, employing some 47,500 people and delivering more than 1.5 billion passenger journeys across 12 European countries every year. We operate an extensive range of services including buses, trains, health and social transport services, airport related transport services, commuter coaches and water buses. We also engage in bus and coach distribution. Arriva North East employs some 1500 staff and operates a fleet of 520 buses from 7 operating depots across Northumberland, Tyneside, County Durham and North Yorkshire. Redcar and an outstation at Whitby has a fleet size of 71 buses and 177 employees. We are looking to appoint a General Manager to lead the Redcar team in delivering the regional strategy. As a General Manager at Redcar and Whitby you will have accountability for engineering and operational service delivery as well as full responsibility for the financial performance of all depot functions. You will therefore need to have a strong financial background with the ability to analyse data, manage a budget and maximise efficiencies. You will have a great track record of delivering against KPI targets. Your commercial flare which will enable you to identify new business opportunities and your passion for quality service delivery will be essential to achieving our strategy of growing passenger numbers. Essential to the role is the ability to build effective working relationships to engage with stakeholders in order that Local Authority relationships thrive and support the strategy of the business. The successful applicant will be highly organised and task orientated, whilst being able to lead, develop and motivate their people. They will work closely with the operations, engineering, commercial and financial teams to achieve key performance objectives whilst delivering improvements in service quality, employee satisfaction and depot profitability. The post holder will in turn be responsible for directly managing and maintaining the performance and standards achieved by drivers who operate services from the site. You will ideally be educated to degree level, although this is not essential; what is more important is your successful track record of delivering results within the bus industry.
How to apply: If you are interested in this challenging role, then please forward your CV with a covering letter to: Carly Watkins, HR Manager, Admiral Way, Doxford Park, Sunderland, SR3 3XP or by email at: watkinsc@arriva.co.uk
arrivabus.co.uk
Closing date for applications: Friday 31 May 2013
Arriva is committed to diversity, if you’re good you’re welcome
www.coachandbusweek.com
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