.COM Stagecoach invests ACHANDBUSMARKET O C in Perth �leet p10 R BUYING
Over 50 new ADL Daimler unveils buses for NXWM p9 IAA lineup p16
THE NO.1 WEBSITEURFOVEHICLES AND SELLING YO
VEHICLES FOR SALE p49-72
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Phil Southall, Oxford Bus Co. new MD – p9 THE LATEST INDUSTRY JOBS EVERY WEEK SEE PAGES 78-79
UNVIs for Bath Bus DELIVERIES
Barry’s Coaches Irizar i6 Scanias
Dickinson’s of Wrangle Volvo B9R Plaxton
Megabus trialling 15-metre Scania p11 001_CBW1151_Cover.indd 1
Commbus in events
Wednesday August 20, 2014 | Issue 1151 | £2.95 | www.coachandbusweek.com
p26 18/08/2014 19:05
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703253-1151-GM Coaches 14/08/2014 15:33 Page 1
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Among the stock images taken on the Isle of Wight was this National Holiday Van Hool at Shanklin
My week ‘down south’
I
have spent the past week on a much-needed getaway from the office. As you’ve probably gathered by now, I’m not a beach holiday sort. Like my late grandfathers, I hate lounging around, so have always got to be doing something. Therefore, my better half Sarah and I enjoyed something of a five-day whistle stop tour of south central England. Calling first in Oxford on Sunday, we headed to Alresford – but there was no Mid Hants Railway as it was Thomas week. We spent Monday exploring Winchester. Using the West Park & Ride route was a no brainer – boosted by friendly drivers and clean buses operated by Stagecoach South. Why anyone would want to drive their private car into the highly congested centre is completely beyond me. We crossed the Solent on the catamaran from Portsmouth on Tuesday, before catching the Island Line to Smallbrook Junction. Sarah was particularly taken with the delightful wooden-bodied carriages on the Isle of Wight Steam Railway, along with its recently opened ‘Train Experience’ museum. Like me, she rated the shop and tea room too – not to mention the friendly staff.
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After re-boarding the Island Line, we walked down the hill to Shanklin seafront. It was a bus-free day – or at least in part in that we didn’t ride any. However, numerous photos of the landscapes, coaches and buses were taken. After driving to Lyndhurst on Wednesday morning, we boarded the New Forest open-top tour’s green route, taking in Brockenhurst, Lymington, Beaulieu and Hythe. While I plan to feature tour in a forthcoming issue, for now it’s enough to say we enjoyed ourselves immensely and that if you’re in the area, we would highly recommend experiencing it. After driving back up to Peterborough on Thursday afternoon, it was DIY time. We had last-minute preparations to complete for the erection of our new garden shed the following day. I was in B&Q at 0700hrs on Friday buying extra gravel to lay before our handyman arrived. No rest for the wicked... We drove across to the Welsh borderland in the evening, ready for ‘steamy’ activities on the Cambrian Heritage Railways (www. cambrianrailways.com) in Oswestry, but that’s another story...
Gareth Evans Editor
Venues in Date Order… • 29th & 30th August – King long Head Office, Coventry CV6 6JR. Off M6 Junction 3. • 3rd September – Bell House Hotel, London HP9 2XE. Off M40 Junction 2. • 10th September – Hilton Newport Hotel, Chepstow Road, Langstone, Newport NP18 2LX. Off M4 Junction 24, off the Coldra Roundabout. • 17th September – Pavilions of Harrogate, Great Yorkshire Showground, HG2 8NZ • 19th & 20th September - Holiday Inn Express, Strathclyde Park, Hamilton Road ML1 3RB. Off M74. All shows run from 09:30 to 16:30
August 20, 2014 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 5 18/08/2014 19:34
CONTENTS
megabus.com 15-metre Scania i6
p11
18 22 26 48
FACE TO FACE
Steven Knight talks to Stagecoach East Midlands MD Michelle Hargreaves
DELIVERIES
New coaches for operators in Wrangle, Swindon, Midsomer Norton, Weymouth and Cheltenham
PROFILE
Richard Charnley visits Commbus of Coleshill in the West Midlands, a diverse business that runs coaches as well as exhibition buses
BOOK REVIEWS
MINIBUS
31 32 36
Titles on the New Bus for London and Richards Brothers to put on the bookcase
Comment
Martin Cole provides an update on Mellor’s acquisition of Bluebird’s intellectual property and assets
News
The Mobility Network Group expands and all the latest deliveries
Minibus Legal News
Wangping Travel’s licence is revoked and its sole director disqualified for nine months
42
Launch
Mercedes-Benz unveils its Euro 6 Vito with a comprehensive range of revisions designed to keep it well ahead in the C.V. sector
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Sights of Sussex
ents at ● New appointmGroup Galloway Travel to debut ● Van Hool EX soon at IAA Hanover
COACH NEWS
Pelican Yutong partnership p11 strengthened
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Top Stories 8 l Bath Bus Company takes delivery of first UNVI Urbis 25 Volvo B9TLs for the UK 9 l Phil Southall is appointed as new MD of Oxford Bus Company 9 l Over 50 new ADL buses for National Express West Midlands 11 l Stagecoach megabus.com trials first 15-metre Scania K410EB Irizar i6 11 l Motts Travel Group-owned Crusader Holidays launches brochure
p31 Regulars 08 l News
p8
12 l Regional News 16 l International News 40 l Big Picture 77 l Last Stop 78 l People
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April 9, 2014 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 7
13/06/2014 19:26 12:12 18/08/2014
NEWS
Bath Bus Company receives two UNVIs New open-toppers are the first vehicles of their kind in the UK City Sightseeing’s International Operator of the Year, Bath Bus Company, has taken delivery of two new Volvo B9TL full open-top double-decker buses with UNVI Urbis 25 bodywork. In use on popular tourist routes in Bath, the new buses are the first of their kind in the UK and Ireland. Built on the Volvo B9TL Euro 5 chassis, the UNVI Urbis 25 bodywork allows for two doorways and two internal staircases. The left-hand drive version of this specification is used across City Sightseeing operations in Europe, but this is the first time a righthand drive version has entered service. The driveline on the new vehicles is the familiar transverse-engined layout featuring the Volvo D9B 260bhp six-cylinder engine and automatic gearbox. Strict traffic regulation conditions within Bath’s boundaries carefully control vehicle types, routes, bus numbers and stop dwell times. With a departure every six minutes, during summer months, the new vehicles are optimised for passenger flow. The buses are also half a metre longer compared to earlier models in the fleet, at a little under 12 metres in total. They are specified with 76 passenger seats, 53 seats on the upper deck and 23 seats on the lower deck. There is also additional space for wheelchairs, as well as ramped access. Bath Bus Company Managing Director, Martin Curtis, explained: “It was the attractive combination of Volvo Bus and UNVI Urbis 25
The UNVI Urbis 25-bodied Volvo B9TLs were built specifically to allow rapid boarding and alighting. DAVID BELL bodywork that resulted in our placing the original order and we’re delighted with the completed vehicles. “Their specification increases the speed at which passengers can embark and alight at busy city centre stops. This helps the company adhere to Bath city centre stopping guidelines and uses the buses to their full capacity during busy periods.”
8 | COACH & BUS WEEK | August 20, 2014 008_009_CBW1151_News.indd 8
Speaking to CBW, Marin added: “The vehicles have been in service for about a week now and are able to load and unload extremely quickly. They are already proving their worth.” Volvo Bus Regional Sales Manager, Phil Fletcher, said: “We’re delighted to finalise the delivery of these unique double deck buses. We were able to offer our proven Volvo B9TL chassis with the dual
doors and staircases thanks to UNVI Urbis 25 bodywork. “Bath Bus Company has a large amount of customers to cater for at peak times and the delivery of these new optimised vehicles affords them much greater opportunity for passenger movement. In the long-term this will positively influence their whole business. Therefore it is quite a significant delivery.”
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18/08/2014 19:25
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Oxford Bus Company appoints new MD Phil Southall has been appointed MD for Oxford Bus Company (OBC), as Philip Kirk is stepping down after 20 years with the company. The role also incorporates Thames Travel and Carousel Buses. Phil is currently the Operations Director at OBC, having joined Go-Ahead Group in 2006. He moved to OBC from Go North East in 2012. He will take on the role formally in the autumn following a handover period. David Brown, CEO of Go-Ahead said: “I’m very pleased Phil Southall is being promoted to MD of Oxford Bus Company. He joined the industry as a management trainee in 1998 and has extensive operational and commercial experience that he will be bringing to the role. “We’re sorry to see Philip leave, as under his leadership OBC has become the successful bus company it is today. We wish him the best for the new projects he’s looking to pursue.” Phil Southall said: “It’s a great team here and I’m looking forward to growing and expanding the business and continuing our success.” Philip Kirk added: “It’s been a pleasure to lead a tremendous team of people who have transformed the company over the last two decades. But I feel the right time to hand over the reins to a fresh pair of hands.”
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Over 50 new ADLs for Nat Ex West Midlands A £9m fleet of 52 new buses has been unveiled by National Express West Midlands (NXWM), working in partnership with transport authority Centro. The buses are to operate in Sandwell, travelling across the borough from the bus depot at West Bromwich, and will be a mixture of double and singledecker vehicles. The Alexander Dennis (ADL) buses have been introduced as part of the Partnership Plus deal between Centro and NXWM. They will all carry CCTV systems with pictures being displayed on screens in the vehicles. Partnership Plus was signed in 2013 and will see a series of investments and innovations delivered by 2015 when it comes
Strong bus market leaves coaches trailing in July Bus and coach registrations rose 20.3% in July, taking 2014-todate volumes up 5.4% to 7,943 units. July growth was driven by a 69.8% rise for purpose-built buses while coaches dipped 27.4% in the month. Converted bus registrations were stable in the month, but volumes are still up 12% in 2014-to-date. “July proved a good month for the bus and coach market, with registrations posting a 20.3% growth,” said Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive. “The overall picture for buses and coaches remains positive, with the past 12 months showing14.5% growth.”
Darren Cooper of Sandwell Council, Peter Coates of NXWM and Cllr John McNicholas at the unveiling outside Sandwell Council House in Oldbury up for review. It will include more than 300 new buses for the region, new bus shelters, and the introduction of the Sprint Rapid Transit system (CBW1150) between Birmingham and Quinton.
Cllr John McNicholas, Chairman of Centro, said: “This investment is yet another example of the very real benefits that Centro’s partnership with NXWM is bringing to bus users across the region.” Peter Coates, Managing Director of NXWM, added: “The new midi buses will also help us to provide better bus services to housing estates.” Cllr Darren Cooper, Leader of Sandwell Borough Council, said: “It’s great news for Sandwell, especially as we’re getting the region’s biggest investment in new buses this year. “It’s a major investment from National Express and Centro and really good news for public transport in Sandwell.”
REGISTRATIONS OF NEW PURPOSE-BUILT BUSES AND COACHES IN THE UK Marque
Jul-14 Jul-13 YTD-14 YTD-13
ALEXANDER DENNIS 125 67 552 664 VOLVO BUS
58 39 430 538
WRIGHTBUS
58 23 363 174
SCANIA
16 26 205 214
OPTARE
41 31 175 196
VDL
2 9 90 71
VAN HOOL
11 7 79 50
MERCEDES
19 16 76 55
NEOPLAN
3 4 51 50
SETRA
0 25 47 37
OTHER IMPORTS
3 2 31 13
IRIZAR
2 3 31 32
KING LONG
8 4 26 20
MAN
10 0 25 37
IVECO YUTONG Total buses and coaches
3 7 7 65 6 0 6 0 365 263 2,194 2,216
Digital and analogue tachograph analysis
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008_009_CBW1151_News.indd 9
August 20, 2014 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 9 18/08/2014 15:58
20.3%
NEWS SHARE WATCH
Industry share prices at the close of the Stock Exchange on Monday, August 18. Synectics saw the greatest proportional rise, while 21st Century saw the greatest proportional drop. Most figures obtained from www.lse.co.uk
439.10p
Price: Year High: 471.00p Year Low: 374.10p
Rise in coach and bus registrations in July, 2014 compared to same period the previous year
49.6
Certified fuel consumption figure for the Mercedes-Benz Vito 116 CDI BlueEfficiency (miles per gallon)
10 new Enviro300s for Stagecoach Perth
+12.30 on last week
119.20p
Price: Year High: 146.10p Year Low: : 110.90p
SAME on last week
2212.00p
Price: Year High: 2442.00p Year Low: 1465.00p
+16.00
255.00p
Price: Year High: 307.70p Year Low: 244.70p
358.40p
Price: Year High: 401.40p Year Low: 307.00p
0.19p
Price: Year High: 0.36p Year Low: 0.185p
57.75p
Price: Year High: 58.50p Year Low: 42.50p
352.50p
Price: Year High: 620.00p Year Low: 302.50p
5.875p
Price: Year High: 8.00p Year Low: 4.38p
on last week
The launch event drew a significant amount of public interest +4.00 on last week
+10.40 on last week
+0.005 on last week
+1.75 on last week
+15.00 on last week
-0.25 on last week
FTSE 100
6739
Index: Year High: 6,878 Year Low: 6,338
+126 on last week
Stagecoach launched 10 new ADL Enviro300s in Perth last week for its circular services 1 and 2. The 41-seater single-deckers represent a £1.4m investment in the city, and offer free WiFi. The move follows the introduction of �ive similar vehicles in May for route 9. The latest batch was launched at McDiarmid Park on Thursday (August 14). Andrew Jarvis, Managing
Director, Stagecoach East Scotland said: “We wanted to introduce these new buses to the community. To celebrate the investment, we planned this family event to encourage people to come down and experience the new vehicles, learn more about the buses and the services we operate – but most importantly have some fun, completely free on one of the last days of the school holidays.” McDiarmid Park was ideally located on the route, and Stagecoach offered a free upgrade to a weekly megarider. The launch also included a range of kids’ entertainment, free refreshments
and giveaways. Route 1 operates in a clockwise direction from the city centre to Letham and Tulloch and back to the city, while route 2 runs in the opposite direction from the city centre, via Tulloch then Letham and returning to the city centre. Both routes pass popular travel destinations such as Perth Royal In�irmary, Perth College, Tesco and of course the St Johnstone FC ground, McDiarmid Park. Both services run on a 10-minute Monday to Saturday daytime frequency, and every 30 minutes during the evenings and on Sundays.
Fees charged by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) for annual vehicle testing and operator licensing are changing from October 1. Fees for tests taken at Authorised Testing Facilities (ATFs) will fall by an average of 3.5%. DVSA said this means that customers not using its facilities will no longer contribute to their running costs. Over 80% of these tests are now done at an ATFs – the remainder being carried out from DVSA sites. However, fees for tests at DVSA sites will increase by an average of
around 18.5% – which the agency said re�lects the fact the cost of providing tests from its sites is higher than from ATFs. In the past, these higher costs have been spread across all tests, but will now only be spread over the tests being taken at DVSA sites. DVSA is also changing fees for O-licences. These will rise by 1% to cover the running costs associated with the national register of licensed operators. The register, which has been introduced as part of EU legislation, aims to create a more level playing
�ield for international transport operations and reduce distortion of competition across the EU. DVSA Chief Executive Alastair Peoples said: “With no general fee increases since 2009, and reduced theory test fees starting in October, we’re demonstrating our commitment to minimising costs for all our customers.”
£1.4m investment made in 41-seater ADL vehicles which will serve on circular services 1 and 2
PSV test & O-licence fee changes
10 | COACH & BUS WEEK | August 20, 2014 010_011_CBW1151_News.indd 10
A breakdown of the revised PSV test fees can be found at http://tinyurl.com/l6brx9w and O-licence fees at http:// tinyurl.com/m7f6m2x. www.coachandbusweek.com
18/08/2014 19:01
28
Number of vehicles in the fleet of Barnes Coaches of Swindon
Crusader Holidays releases 2015 brochure Motts Travel Group-owned Crusader Holidays has announced the release of its 2015 holiday brochure, including new destinations such as Norway, Baltic states, Ilfracombe and Hastings, along with old favourites. The new brochure includes several new British tours and holidays which aim to meet most people’s needs and requirements. There are themed holidays to Chelsea Flower show with a visit to Kew Gardens included as well as a four-�ive day holiday called
Salisbury short stay coach park plans Plans to convert part of Brown Street Car Park in Salisbury into a short stay coach park with space for eight to 12 coaches are moving forward, says BBC News. Under the proposals the car park will be redesigned and a toilet block will be constructed although the rest of the space would be retained for cars, motorcycles and disabled parking. Coaches spending longer in the city will go to the Britford Park & Ride site after they have dropped off their passengers, where there will be facilities for drivers. The current coach drop off point on St John’s Street will be retained for people who are visiting Salisbury Cathedral. Stanhope, the developer behind the Maltings scheme, which will result in the Millstream Coach Park closing, has said that it will provide another drop off point for people visiting the other side of the city. John Burch from the CPT said he felt the proposals would help the city to retain the important accolade.
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Splendours of Sussex, visiting the region’s best gardens. Also included is a specialist foodie weekend called Taste of Lancashire and a Whiskey trail holiday in Scotland based in Pitlochry, visiting some of the most famous distilleries in the region. On the European front, the Baltic States tour is a 12 day fully loaded itinerary visiting no fewer than six countries including Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, Finland, Sweden and Denmark. It includes some guided tours of Riga, Tallinn, Copenhagen and an overnight cruise on the Silja Line ferry from Helsinki to Stockholm. Norway in a Nutshell is another new addition that includes guided visits to Voss and Oslo as well a scenic rail and boat cruise in the Fjords, plus another overnight
010_011_CBW1151_News.indd 11
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before and believe that these new additions will be hugely popular with our loyal customers and new ones alike. “Where possible, we have looked to improve upon all of our existing trips after receiving customer feedback to ensure our customers have the best holidays possible. The brochure has a new front cover design and after providing our drivers with cameras to take on the tours, have managed to give it a more personal feel with photos of happy holiday makers and our coaches taken by our drivers. “There are several new British tours and themed trips, some of which we have tried in the local area with Motts Leisure which have proved immensely popular so wanted to open these up to our Crusader customers.”
ferry. Val Mott, Director of Crusader Holidays, commented: “We are very happy with the new line up for 2015. We are going to countries we haven’t visited
First 15-metre Scania Irizar i6 for Megabus The UK’s �irst 15-metre Scania Irizar i6 is about to enter service on a six month trial with Stagecoach’s megabus.com. It’s to be based at Rugby depot where it will operate on routes across the country. Based on a Scania K410EB6x2*4, the vehicle has a Euro 6 DC13-115 engine and Opticruise GR875R eight-speed automated gearbox with integral retarder. There’s also a Scania’s C200 OnBoard �leet management system and the coach is the �irst in the UK to combine a 13-litre engine with a front wheelchair lift (PLS and Magic Floor) and a full height emergency door with fold-out cassette steps. As well as 61 Irizar PB seats with three-point seatbelts, leather headrests and centre armrests, there are three-pin electrical sockets and USB charging sockets at each double seat, Hanover DDAcompliant destination equipment, a Synetics CCTV system and a rear offside surface-mounted Shades freshwater toilet. “Scania has long enjoyed a
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The UK’s first 15-metre Scania Irizar i6 will be based at Rugby productive and mutually bene�icial business relationship with Stagecoach and we are delighted to have been given the opportunity to prove this exciting new vehicle on its megabus.com service,” said Tony Tomsett, Bus, Coach and Engine Sales Director for Scania (Great Britain) Limited. “The Scania Irizar i6 is highly appointed. We are therefore con�ident it will be extremely well
received both by megabus.com and its customers.” Megabus.com Managing Director Elizabeth Esnouf said: “We are always keen to look at new options that have the potential to enhance our �leet and deliver a continued high standard of service for our customers. This is potentially an exciting new vehicle for us and we look forward to the results of this trial.”
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NEWS › REGIONAL SOUTH WEST TWO BUS SERVICES in Bath will continue thanks to £75,000 of funding from Bath and North East Somerset Council, the Bath Chronicle reported. The money will keep the Number 2 between Bath Riverside and Ensleigh running, along with the 4 between Bath to Bathampton. The services were under threat of closure after First announced its intention to stop running the services commercially, saying the Bath Riverside to Ensleigh service was being withdrawn because it had consistently failed to cover its cost. Cllr Caroline Roberts, Cabinet Member for Transport, said: “The council decided to go through an emergency tendering process and put in this additional funding to keep these important services running. Many people living in Bathampton and Lansdown Road rely on these services into Bath city centre.” The Number 4 will continue to be run by First with the same timetable, with passengers seeing no change in services, timings, or fares. The Number 2 will be run by CT Coaches from September 1. The service will run from Monday to Saturday every hour, operating at half past the hour from Ensleigh. Some of these journeys will be substituted by existing journeys
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KEY
SCOTLAND NORTHERN IRELAND REP OF IRELAND NORTH WALES MIDLANDS EAST LONDON SOUTH EAST SOUTH WEST
on the 620 at 0729, 1232 and 1826hrs. Return trips will leave on the hour from Bath Riverside between 0800 and 1700hrs except for a break in service at 1200hrs. SALISBURY REDS has launched a new smartphone app providing travellers with real-time information. The service was launched by Salisbury Reds on Saturday, August 9 at Guildhall Square and other local bus stops in Salisbury.
Nikki Honer, Salisbury Reds Communications Manager, said: “We know there is great demand for up-to-the-minute travel information, making it easier than ever for our customers to plan their journeys across the city.” The project was financed by Wiltshire Council through the Department for Transport’s Better Bus Area Fund. PASSENGER NUMBERS for New Forest buses are at an all-time high.
A GROUP OF TEENAGE n friends from Gwent and Monmouthshire were recently
announced as the new ‘Directors of Teenage Communication’ for Stagecoach in South Wales. To celebrate its new discount travel scheme for young people, Stagecoach VIP, Stagecoach in South Wales launched a competition to secure the next generation of budding marketers and social media experts to help develop a ‘Teen Out Guide’ and promote the scheme this summer. Jade Powell and Rachel Bird from Blackwood, and Jessica Jones from Abergavenny, all 16 and students at Blackwood Comprehensive, joined together to create the winning team selected for the summer job. The competition encouraged teenagers to enter via social media, sharing their best experiences in South Wales using
the hashtag #StagecoachVIP. Shortlisted entrants were then tasked to write a film or restaurant review and explain how they would promote this using social media. On top of their £500 salary each, Jade, Jessica and Rachel’s new roles enable them to attend and review events over the summer.
12 | COACH & BUS WEEK | August 20, 2014 012_014_CBW1151_Regional News.indd 12
This includes riding the press boat at The Cardiff Festival of Extreme Sailing, reviewing a film with their own private screening in the newly built Blackwood cinema, and cheering on the Cardiff Blue’s from the press box at a match, whilst using a Stagecoach VIP travel card to get around by bus. They’ll also help to create social
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The services are run by operators More bus and Bluestar in partnership with the New Forest National Park Authority, as part of a Department for Transport (DfT) funded campaign to encourage more people to travel without a car in the National Park. The daily summer Beach Bus service, from Hythe to Lepe, Beaulieu and Lymington, has seen twice as many passenger journeys in its first week (July 26 to August 1) compared to the same period last year, with 1,552 passengers in 2014 compared to 719 in 2013. The New Forest Tour has so far attracted 15,977 passengers compared to 15,388 in the same period last year (June 28 to August 2). Last year a record 40,600 passengers hopped on the opentop’s three routes around the National Park during its 11-week season. Numbers for the green route around the south east of the New Forest are significantly higher thanks to a new link with Hythe Ferry, whilst the red route in the north of the Forest has benefited from new stops at New Forest Wildlife Park and Longdown Activity Farm near Ashurst. The timetable for the blue route along the south coast has also been revised so all three routes run eight times a day, seven days a week. Andrew Wickham, Managing Director of operators More bus and Bluestar, said: “We’re very pleased with the summer we’ve had so far.
marketing campaigns to reach the teenage market in South Wales. The new Stagecoach VIP scheme entitles everyone under the age of 19 to receive a third off all Stagecoach adult bus tickets on every Stagecoach service in Wales. The discounted travel will apply to all Stagecoach bus tickets in South Wales, including singles, returns, weekly, monthly and annual tickets. John Gould, Managing Director at Stagecoach in South Wales said: “We had a great response to our VIP competition which demonstrated just how passionate the younger members of the South Wales community are about our region. “Jessica, Jade and Rachel impressed us with their entries which included tweets of their favourite places in South Wales including Ponty’s Big Weekend, seeing McBusted in Cardiff.”
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The new link for the New Forest Tour with Hythe Ferry has been particularly popular as people ferry across from Southampton rather than driving their cars.”
NORTH
STAGECOACH NORTH EAST is calling on people to use a reinstated evening service in Hartlepool or risk losing it, after a disappointing trial run. The Hartlepool Mail reported that Stagecoach North East, who had been working closely with Hartlepool Borough Council and the Tees Valley Bus Network Partnership, brought back the route 6 evening service for a trail period. The temporary service, which links Hartlepool town centre and the Clavering area, operates from 1800 until 2145hrs every 20 minutes, on Sundays to Thursdays, including Bank Holidays. Phil Medlicott, Managing Director of Stagecoach North East, said: “Take up of the service has been quite slow and we are currently only carrying 50% of the passenger numbers needed, which means service 6 is now under threat unless there is a significant change. “The service provides a safe and efficient travel option and as we are only six weeks through the trial, we would urge those who originally wanted the services to use them, or risk losing them for good. “We are very keen to see passenger numbers on the reinstated service increase so we can continue running them and serve the community.” Labour councillor Peter Jackson, who had campaigned for the services to be re-introduced, said: “As a council we have worked hard with stagecoach to introduce the evening service 6 between the town centre and Clavering and we do hope that the take-up increases to make it viable.”
WALES
A NEW BUS SERVICE is to run from Brynbryddan and Cwmafan to Port Talbot. The service 11 is being run by Ridgways Coaches every 30 minutes and means Cwmafan residents will now benefit from a bus service seven days a week.
CARDIFF BUS has announced a new partnership with PayPoint to
launch its new generation of electronic bus ticketing, while at the same time making it much easier for customers to top up their travelcards. The company’s current ITSOcompliant contactless smartcard allows customers to travel on its buses using prepaid cards, which can only be loaded on the bus or at the customer information outlets. With over 180 PayPoint retailers in the Cardiff, Barry, Dinas Powys and Penarth area, the new service makes it much easier for all customers to top up their cards. Having obtained a smartcard from Cardiff Bus, customers have a range of ticket options each time they top up at PayPoint. PayPoint terminals and PPoS units are already configured to automatically read the contactless cards. Peter Heath, Operations and Commercial Director of Cardiff Bus, said: “The emphasis with the smartcard product range has always been on customer convenience and great value for money, but they also help to speed up bus boarding times, making overall journey times faster for everyone. “Most PayPoint facilities are situated in local newsagents and convenience stores near households in both rural and urban areas so now people can easily top up their smartcard when buying daily groceries or the newspaper. Customers should just look out for the PayPoint sign, tell staff in the shop how much they want to load and the card will be instantly topped up. “Our partnership with PayPoint makes travelling with a smartcard even more attractive and customer-friendly, and we hope many more people will take advantage of this facility to travel around our network by bus.” Andrew Goddard, Retail Director at PayPoint, added: “We are delighted to be partnering with Cardiff Bus so that its customers will able to ease their bus travel by topping up their smartcards in advance at more convenient times and locations as most PayPoint outlets are open long hours, seven days a week. “As a result, PayPoint retailers in South Wales will benefit from the extra footfall and top-ups as well as all the other payments and purchases customers will make while in the store. This is a great opportunity to win new customers.”
14 | COACH & BUS WEEK | August 20, 2014 012_014_CBW1151_Regional News.indd 14
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DATES FOR YOUR DIARY 2014 n August 24 – 25 The Big Operating Day and MetroCammell Celebration The Transport Museum Wythall. Celebrating a Birmingham company whose buses and trains could be found all around the globe.. 01564 826471. www. bammot.org.uk n August 25 Imberbus special bus service to abandoned settlements on Salisbury Plain, 10–1800hrs.
http://imberbus.wordpress.com
n August 29 – 30 King Long Road Show. Kinglong Direct Limited, Three Spires Industrial Estate, Ibstock Road, Coventry CV6 6JR. 0930 – 1630hrs. Call 02476 363 004. n August 30 EYMS Big Bus Day. Streetlife Museum, Hull 01482 222444 www.eyms.co.uk n August 31, Ribble Vehicle Preservation Trust Running Day. Vehicles on display and in service around Lytham St. Anne’s.
www.rvpt.org
n August 31 Buses Festival. Heritage Motor Museum, Gaydon. 10 – 1700hrs. Contact: michelle. withers@keypublishing.com n September 3 King Long Road Show. Bell House Hotel, London HP9 2XE. 0930 – 1630hrs. Call 02476 363 004. n September 7 Dartford Bus Garage Open Day. Arriva London, Central Road, Dartford, DA1 5BG 1000 – 1600hrs. www.arrivalondon.com n September 9 Association of Trainers AGM. Birmingham. 01797 344251 www.asot.org.uk/index.php/
asot/come-to-meet-us-menu
n September 10-11 Low Carbon Vehicle Event, Millbrook, Bedfordshire. 01509 635 750. www. cenex-lcv.co.uk n September 14 Bus & Coach Wales Merthyr Tydfil n September 14 UK Bus Driver of the Year 2014 Blackpool. bdoy@ btinternet.com n September 21 Showbus 2014. Imperial War Museum, Duxford. www.showbus.com n September 25 Group Leisure Show Hall 8, NEC Birmingham. 01908 613323 http://leisureshow.com n September 25 - October 2 IAA Commercial Vehicle Show. Hannover, Germany. www.iaa.de
The Ribble Vehicle Preservation Trust Running Day takes place on August 31, 2014 around Lytham St Anne’s n September 27 Lothian Buses Doors Open Day Central Depot, Annandale Street, Edinburgh, EH7 4AZ 12 – 1600hrs http:// lothianbuses.com/our-community/ community/events n October 5 Bluebell Railway Vintage Bus Day. 01825 720800, visit www.bluebell-railway.com or email d.morgan52@btinternet.com n October 5 Oxford Bus Museum Bus & Classic Vehicle Rally & Running Day Station Yard, Long Hanborough,OX29 8LA. 01993 883 617. www.oxfordbusmuseum.org.uk n October 6–7 CPT Scotland Annual Conference. Cameron House Hotel, Alexandria. 0131 272 2150. www.cpt-uk.org n October 28-31 International Bus and Coach Trade Fair Feria de Madrid Avda del Partenon, 5 28042 Madrid, Spain www.ifema.es n November 4-6 Euro Bus Expo Expo 2014 NEC Birmingham www. eurobusexpo.com n November 4 – 7 QV Associates Introduction to Bus & Crew Scheduling course. Birmingham. 01905 613527. http://qv-associates. com n November 18 UK Bus Awards. London Hilton Hotel www. ukbusawards.org.uk
2015 n May 3 – 4 Friends of King Alfred Buses Running Day Winchester www.fokab.org.uk n June 21 Welsh Coach Rally National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. For details, call Ashley Lovering on 07814958379.
Send your event details to gareth.evans@ coachandbusweek.com
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August 20, 2014 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 15
NEWS › INTERNATIONAL
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Daimler unveils IAA, Hanover line up Citaro, Tourismo, Travego, Setra ComfortClass 500 MD, Setra 511/519 HD and MultiClass LE all feature in Daimler’s line up for the 2014 International Commercial Vehicle show GERMANY Mercedes-Benz and Setra have a host of innovations to show at the 2014 International Commercial Vehicle show in Hanover (Sep 25 to Oct 2). At over 40,000 units, the Mercedes-Benz Citaro is MercedesBenz’s best-selling bus of all time. The Citaro G articulated bus is now optionally available with the compact, horizontally installed OM 936 h six-cylinder in-line engine. It produces 260 kW (354 bhp) from its 7.7-litre displacement while reaching a maximum torque of 1,400Nm. The Power Boost System (PBS) uses compressed air injection to accelerate the torque build-up at lower engine speeds. This gives pull-away characteristics on a par with those of a larger-sized engine. A key advantage is that, owing to the low engine weight and small installation space, the capacity of the Citaro G is increased by up to eight passengers. The Citaro G also benefits from the new and improved ATC (Articulation Turntable Controller). The show vehicle is additionally equipped with a new generation of
Launching at IAA, Hanover is the Setra MultiClass LE available in two lengths electronics. For 2014, the Mercedes-Benz Intouro has additional length variants. The model range is made up of two-axle vehicles from 12.14m to 13.32m. From next year, the MercedesBenz Tourismo will be available with the SPA Lane Assistant, which employs a camera system behind the windscreen to detect when the vehicle unintentionally changes lane or risks going off the road. From next spring, it will additionally be fitted with the AEBS Advanced Emergency Braking System. Previously available only for the three-axle models, the MercedesBenz OM 470 six-cylinder in-line engine is now also on offer for the two-axle high-decker. With a
power output of 315kW (428hp), it delivers 2,100Nm of torque. The Mercedes-Benz Travego will be available with Active Brake Assist (ABA) 3 from mid-2015. A new option is Predictive Powertrain Control, designed to further reduce fuel consumption. Originating from the ComfortClass 500 modular system, the ComfortClass 500 MD family consisting of the S515 MD (length 12.3m) and S516 MD (13.1m) has the same genetic makeup as the HD while combining the passenger compartment of a ComfortClass high-decker with a lower under structure. The Setra S511 HD is also a product of the ComfortClass 500 modular system and, at a length of 10.47m, makes the new shorter
high-decker suitable for numerous assignments. A wheelbase of 5,005mm makes for a turning circle of 17.5m. At the other extreme, with a length of 14.95m, Setra’s longest coach, the S519, holds 71 passenger seats without toilet or 65 with. Power comes from an OM 471 six-cylinder in-line engine, which, with an output of 350kW (476hp) and 2,300Nm of torque, is the most powerful engine in the ComfortClass 500 range. Fitted as standard is the fully automated GO 250-8 PowerShift transmission. The Setra MultiClass UL is joined by the new Setra MultiClass LE, available in two lengths of 12.33m and 13.04m, and combining low entry with a high deck. Launched last year, the top of the range Setra TopClass 500 includes three premium three-axle coaches in lengths from 12.5m to 14.17m. The latest, Euro 6-compliant version of the Setra TopClass S431 DT double-decker is powered by the rear-mounted OM 471 six-cylinder in-line engine with 12.8-litre displacement, 375kW (510 hp) output and a torque of 2,500Nm. It has optional Predictive Powertrain Control, secondary water retarder, feedback-controlled ancillaries and on-board power supply management with an intelligent battery sensor.
Volvo GPS-steered hybrid buses tested in Gothenburg
SWEDEN Buses that automatically switch to electric power and drive at low speed in sensitive areas are becoming a reality with new technology currently being tested in Volvo’s electric hybrids. Volvo Buses’ electric hybrids have been operating on route 60 in Gothenburg for the past year now. This spring the buses tested Volvo’s new ‘Zone Management’ technology, which regulates how the bus operates in specific zones along the route. GPS is used to determine exactly where along the route the bus should run on electricity or diesel, and also how fast it may drive in the various zones. “The bus is pre-programmed to adjust both fuel source and speed to suit the zone in which it is currently driving,” said Magnus Broback, Director City Mobility at Volvo Buses. “When it enters a zero-emission zone, it automatically switches to
pure electric power without the driver having to do anything. City Mobility is Volvo’s programme for helping cities to switch to more sustainable public transport. “This technology makes it possible to bring the bus closer to the areas where people move around: their homes, shopping centres, hospitals and schools. It’s an excellent example of how Volvo is developing technology that makes public transport more accessible, safer and cleaner.” The test in Gothenburg is the result of close co-operation between Chalmers University of Technology, Volvo Buses, the Gothenburg Traffic & Public Transport Authority, regional public transport operator Västtrafik and other stakeholders in the Västra Götaland region. “The environment and safety are two issues on which we continually focus at Göteborgs Spårvägar, Gothenburg’s public
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Volvo’s Zone Management technology is being tested in electric hybrid buses transport company,” said Dan Paulström, process developer at Göteborgs Spårvägar. “By being able to determine when the bus switches between electric and diesel power, we can show where in the city it is important for noise and exhaust emissions to be minimised, creating an ‘electric power’ zone
to suit. This system will also be an important part of our drive to improve safety for our passengers and for everyone who moves around in the city and near bus stops.” The technology will be tested in Volvo’s electric hybrid buses in 2014 and 2015 and is expected to be fully developed in 2016. www.coachandbusweek.com
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Swansea Coachworks New 16 seat Mercedes Sprinter with large boot and side lockers.
Based on the Mercedes Sprinter 516, we have designed a truly unique mini-coach. First of all we have added our coach style body extension to facilitate the luggage requirements, then we have created an interior capable of seating 16 passengers in extreme comfort but added the option of 4 tables, 2 double tables and 2 single tables.
Used Mercedes Sprinter 311 16 seat luxury minicoach with brand new conversion
Full luxury interior, luggage racks, forced air ventilation, rack reading lights, double glazed windows, curtains, luxury reclinning coach seats with armrest, full exterior body kit, full exterior re-paint. The vehicle can also be used as a 13 seat with 4 tables (as per picture) as seats are on coach type tracking. PHONE FOR MORE DETAILS. This is a brief description of this luxury vehicle
Once again you decide what options you require from a vast list available and then pick your own colours to match your requirements. One thing you can be sure about is that a Swansea Coachworks mini-coach stands out in a crowd.
www.swanseacoachworks.com
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Recent additions to the acclaimed Super Prestige series from Venture Publications available now post free from the DGGUHVV EHORZ RU YLD WKH ZHEVLWH ZKHUH \RX FDQ DOVR ¿QG 1000s of other transport books. Have you got an anniversary or event coming up? Contact Mark now to see if your company could be next in the series or if something else might be possible. visit our website
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MDS Book Sales FREEPOST SK2162 Glossop SK13 8YF 01457 861508 www.coachandbusweek.com
August 20, 2014 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 17
FACE TO FACE › MICHELLE HARGREAVES
More than just a bus service There is a revolution taking place within Stagecoach’s East Midlands business as Managing Director Michelle Hargreaves explains to Steven Knight
Michelle Hargreaves (second left, front row) at the launch of the Skegness Seasiders. STAGECOACH EAST MIDLANDS
P
rior to meeting Managing Director of Stagecoach East Midlands Michelle Hargreaves, I make sure that I have some recent experience of her product and with ‘wall to wall’ sun promised for two days, I opt for the Lincolnshire coast and Skegness. Earlier this year, Stagecoach East Midlands re-launched its seasonal open top service which links Skegness town centre with the coastal holiday camps through to Ingoldmells and Chapel St Leonards. It also serves the Butlin’s holiday camp and the popular Fantasy Island theme park. Working with the local depot team under Operations Manager Mark Magean, staff were asked for their views on how the route could be re-launched for 2014.
Buses with characters
“There was an overwhelming view that it should become a holiday attraction in its own right rather than just a bus service,” Michelle told me. “There was a real ‘buy-in’ from staff at Skegness and in the Lincoln HQ who suggested that each of the buses should be given its own identity. Once they had the
ators, here’s
Perhaps most striking of the Seasider liveries is that carried by ‘Rocky’ but all of them are eye catching in different ways. DAVID BELL 18 | COACH & BUS WEEK | August 20, 2014 018_021_CBW1151_Michell Hargreaves.indd 18
Re-launched this year was the X62 service linking Hull and Leeds via Goole, now marketed under the ‘Love Your X’ brand. STAGECOACH EAST MIDLANDS www.coachandbusweek.com
18/08/2014 09:14
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Building up the suspense to the Seasider launch. This was a first glimpse of ‘Pierre’ at what was a structured PR campaign. STAGECOACH EAST MIDLANDS www.coachandbusweek.com
018_021_CBW1151_Michell Hargreaves.indd 19
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‘Sandy’, one of the six seaside buses, arrives in Skegness town centre on a journey from Ingoldmells. DAVID BELL August 20, 2014 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 19 18/08/2014 09:14
FACE TO FACE › MICHELLE HARGREAVES
The established InterConnect and CoastalConnect livery is set for a makeover, whilst also retaining the established brand image. STEVEN KNIGHT concept the team at Skegness started to write children’s stories about the exploits of the buses, which were illustrated using cartoon characters. “The buses needed repainting and a refurbishment so the timing was right. We also simplified fares and now offer children’s single fares for £1 after 0900hrs with adult singles costing £2.40. Adult and children’s Dayrider tickets offer further discounts and family/weekly tickets are also available.” I asked whether the bus themselves has become an attraction rather than just a bus service. “Yes,” said Michelle. “Children have really taken to them and rather than perhaps making just a couple of bus trips during their holiday they want to travel on every one of our Skegness Seasider fleet.” I witnessed that during my travels when a young girl with her parents was having a ‘strop’ at Fantasy Island and was refusing to get on ‘Shelly’ insisting they wait for ‘Rocky’. “In just a matter of weeks the buses have become an integral part of the holiday attractions,” Michelle continued. “We have seen a higher level of engagement between passengers and our drivers who also hand out badges to children.” There’s a separate badge for each of the bus characters. “We have three story books, which we sell for charity and the team at Skegness are writing more. They have even 20 | COACH & BUS WEEK | August 20, 2014
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Changes to FastCat and Humber Flyer liveries are underway. ‘Tiddles’ is an ADL Enviro300-bodied MAN photographed in Scunthorpe bus station. STEVEN KNIGHT written a song about the buses. In addition to the passenger experience there is also a greater sense of ownership and pride at the depot amongst both drivers and engineers”
Staff involvement
Whilst Skegness Seasiders is a bespoke product, Michelle is keen to replicate the staff
involvement across Stagecoach East Midlands. That means making sure driver and union representatives are part of the initial planning process for major projects. Next in line for the makeover experience is the Grimsby/ Cleethorpes operation. The catalyst for change is the planned delivery of 23 ADL Enviro200s towards Christmas.
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A striking livery that speaks for itself – Stagecoach is proud to be part of Lincolnshire. DAVID BELL
Upon repaint the areas of gold on the InterConnect and CoastalConnect livery will be painted in another shade of purple. DAVID BELL
Optare Solos used on the BioBus operation in Lincoln are receiving a new livery following an engine upgrade. STEVEN KNIGHT
New vehicles are due later this year for the Nottinghamshire Pronto service, operated with trent barton. This is an MAN ADL Enviro300. STEVEN KNIGHT Said Michelle: “Their delivery will give us the opportunity to completely revamp the town’s bus network. Some of the current timetables are difficult to follow - and long enough to cover a wall. Rather than complicated timetables we will produce pocket-sized guides, renumber services into a logical series, and make our fare structure easier to understand. The whole www.coachandbusweek.com
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concept will be re-launched under a brand name that reflects the new simplified bus network. “Our fares are not expensive in comparison with say a drink from a high street coffee shop, but the coffee shop provides a tangible item - the drink - and most offer WiFi. When you get on one of our buses you just get a piece of
paper, a ticket. So it’s important we make bus travel simpler and also look at what else we can offer as added value - such as working with third parties to offer discounts. We have already trialled the concept in Hull on a very small scale.” Michelle said she is not adverse to reducing fares to encourage greater use of bus travel. “Yes, we may take an initial hit in revenue but the goal is all about increasing bus use,” she explained. “If we get the product right and make it easy to use then it is an achievable goal.” It is clear from our meeting that Michelle is passionate about how passengers see her product and by involving engineers as well as drivers and depot teams in major projects she is already seeing the rewards. “In February we launched the X62 Hull-Leeds service under the ‘Love your X’ brand using refurbished coaches which we fitted with luxury seats and WiFi,” she said. “With staff empowered to shape major projects there is a greater level of ‘pride’ in the job. Those vehicles look the same today as they did when they were launched.” There are plenty of other enhancements on going or planned. They include changes to the FastCat and Humber Flyer liveries, and the highly recognisable InterConnect livery, used on a network of interconnecting services across Lincolnshire, will see the gold part of the livery replaced by another shade of purple. The BioBus operation in Lincoln is being relaunched under ‘The Lincoln Green’ banner, the Solos having been re-engined with Cummins Westport gas engines and new vehicles are also due later this year for the Nottinghamshire Pronto service, operated with trent barton. “We need to refresh brands and images so that they continue to maintain a high profile impact,” said Michelle. “Changes need only be subtle but they do need to be noticeable.” n
August 20, 2014 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 21 18/08/2014 09:14
Have you taken delivery of a new vehicle and want to tell the world about it? Email all the details and pictures to james.day@coachandbusweek.com
DELIVERIES CENTURION TRAVEL Centurion Travel’s new 14-metre, 61-seat tri-axle Irizar i6 Integral has completed a month’s tour work. The highly specified coach – the first using Irizar UK’s ‘all stainless’ steelwork option – went straight to work direct from the factory. Managing Director of Centurion, Martin Spiller, said it has lived up to all expectations since they saw the model at last year’s Coach and Bus Live show at the NEC. “In the first place, it was delivered on time,” he said. “We loved the timeless look of the i6 and we’re fans of DAF engines and ZF transmission, and it had the luggage capacity we needed so it ticked all the boxes. “We were also impressed by the enthusiasm of the team at Irizar UK in Worksop, and with the factory in Spain. Everyone put in a lot of effort to get everything just right
for us.” Centurion added to an already high specification by ordering the coach in the stainless steel option, which Martin said was a very reasonable price for peace of mind on a vehicle which will have a lengthy
fleet life: “Corrosion in body panels is one thing but in the monocoque chassis could be a major problem.” Among many extras Centurion specified are four tables which can be added when required by deseating the coach, WiFi, an inverter
BARRY’S COACHES
Barry’s Coaches of Weymouth has added another two Scania Irizar i6 coaches to its fleet. The 12.45m overall length Scania K360 IB4x2 chassis selected this year follows two 13.9m K400 EB6x2*4 examples introduced into the Dorset firm’s fleet in 2013. The two latest vehicles are both equipped with 360bhp Euro 5 Scania engines, driving through Scania’s fully automated Opticruise gear selection system. Interior specification includes 53 passenger seats, a Bosch audio/video system, dark tinted glass, washroom and servery. The vehicles will be supported in the marketplace by Scania’s Poole service centre, which will manage the two-year repair and maintenance
MARCHANTS COACHES
programme included in the deal, along with the additional third year driveline warranty which Barry’s Coaches has opted for. These two new frontline tourers take the Barry’s Coaches predominately Scania fleet to 18 vehicles. The company said it once again chose Scania because of the quality of the product and its aftersales service.
Based in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, Marchants Coaches was founded in 1948. The operator has provided a quality service to the residents of Gloucestershire for over 50 years. Under the guidance of Roger and Roy Marchant, the company continues to grow steadily providing a range of services from private hire, holidays and schools transport. Marchants Coaches now operates a growing fleet of 33 vehicles. The operator has taken delivery of two Euro 6 Mercedes-Benz Tourismos, which are the first large Mercedes-Benz Coaches to enter the fleet and have been purchased due to the continued positive feedback from other operators. The two Tourismos will fit well within the operation as they are flexible enough to run on all types of private hire services, school contracts and
FACT FILE
CHASSIS/BODY Irizar i6 Integral ENGINE DAF MX300 TRANSMISSION ZF AS-Tronic SEATS 61 SUPPLIED BY Irizar UK 01909
500514 www.irizar.co.uk
tours/holidays. The two new vehicles have 49 seats and 51 seats with Luxline and Travel Star Xtra upholstery and leather headrests. Power is delivered by the Mercedes-Benz OM 470 hLA 290 kW Euro 6 engine, with a ZF EcoLife gearbox. The Tourismos also include ABS, ESP and Brake Assist, all fitted as standard. Drivers also have the benefit of cruise control. Entertainment is provided through the Bosch Professional Line 3 audiovisual system with CD/DVD player and two 19-inch monitors. FACT FILE
CHASSIS/BODY Mercedes-Benz Tourismo ENGINE Mercedes-Benz OM 470 Euro 6 TRANSMISSION ZF Ecolife SEATS 49/51 SUPPLIED EvoBus UK 02476 626000 www.evobus.co.uk
FACT FILE
CHASSIS/BODY Scania K360IB4x2 /
Irizar i6 ENGINE Scania Euro 5 360bhp TRANSMISSION Automated Opticruise SEATS 53 SUPPLIED Scania (GB) 01909 500822
www.scania.co.uk
22 | COACH & BUS WEEK | August 20, 2014 022_024_CBW1151_Deliveries.indd 22
and a driver bunk. As standard, the 3.7m high coach comes with two-screen DVD, toilet and drinks machine. Martin continued: “The proof of the pudding is the aftersales service we get when it’s out of warranty, though I have no concerns
on that score. In particular, I am impressed with the iService portal, which is a complete online guide to this specific vehicle. We can even order the masking for our livery, and all the parts listed are directly related to this coach.” Midsomer Norton-based Centurion Travel was founded in 1988 by Martin, who runs it with his sons Steve and Darren, both directors. The family has been running coaches since the 1920s. Centurion has a fleet of 28 vehicles, 15 of which are frontline tourers, and provides private hire and touring services under contract to holiday companies.
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DELIVERIES D&J DICKINSON COACHES
D & J Dickinson Coaches of Wrangle near Boston, Lincolnshire, has added another Plaxton Panther to its 10-vehicle fleet. Based on a Volvo B9R Euro 5 chassis, the new vehicle is 12.8m in length and is equipped with 53 Gala recliners fitted with three-point, all age adjustable seatbelts, and a washroom to the centre of the cabin. Plaxton says this is possibly the last of the second generation Panthers to enter service, as the range progresses to its third generation. The new vehicle is finished in a striking variation of Dickinsons white, green and red colour scheme. Every vehicle in the fleet has subtle differences to distinguish each one and the new addition has used printed graphics to add a completely new twist to the attractive scheme. Alcoa Durabrite alloy wheels add to the distinctive appearance. Passenger comfort is assured in the fully climate
controlled cabin, which includes hot drinks facilities, fridge and a premium Bosch entertainment suite with a DVD-based video system. Don Dickinson, who founded the business and now runs it with his son Nigel, said: “We’ve received a great deal of comment from customers on the comfort and finish of the vehicle. Such
positive feedback is always good to hear.” The new coach is destined for use on Dickinson’s own programme of tours and day trips as well as their extensive private hire commitments. It is the fifth Volvo to join the fleet of 10 vehicles. Don added: “We get good service from Volvo and we’ve been regular customers of
Plaxton since the 1980s. The product is ideally suited to a family business like ours where comfort, reliability and solid value for money is paramount. “I can’t speak highly enough of the service and support we receive from the team at Anston, if we have a problem, the solution is only a phone call away.”
BARNES COACHES Barnes Coaches of Swindon has added a new Volvo B9R Jonckheere bodied coach to its fleet. This new vehicle follows on the back of another with the same specification which was purchased by the company in late autumn 2013, and brings the total fleet size for the operator to 28, 12 of which feature Volvo chasses. The 53 seat coach is mainly being used for European tour purposes and is fitted with all the latest features for the comfort and convenience of passengers, including TV screens, hot drink servery, fridge and on-board toilet. Luke Barnes, Director of Barnes Coaches, said: “We receive great quality and value from Volvo and the back-up and support from our local Wales and West dealership is excellent, which is why we’ve turned to them again this time for our latest vehicle.
CHASSIS/BODY Volvo B9R / Plaxton Panther ENGINE Volvo D9B TRANSMISSION Volvo I-Shift SEATS 53 SUPPLIED Plaxton Coach Sales 01909 551166 www. plaxtoncoachsales.co.uk
“Our B9R is well-known as an economic, adaptable and safe coach with driving quality, lightweight characteristics and versatility. It is also highly reliable, while offering low fuel consumption and it is a combination of these characteristics that has made it such a popular choice with many operators around the UK.” Fitted with the rear-mounted 9-litre Volvo D9B engine and incorporating the Volvo I-Shift 12-speed fully automated mechanical gearbox, the vehicle provides a smooth, fuel-efficient driveline. FACT FILE
“Our customers increasingly expect a very high standard from their transport, so customer comfort and great facilities are of paramount importance to us when sourcing new vehicles. In
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FACT FILE
addition, our Regional Sales Manager, Richard Mann, has again been extremely helpful to us throughout the whole specification and purchasing process.” Richard Mann, Regional
Sales Manager for Volvo Bus, added: “Barnes Coaches is a long standing customer of Volvo and we’re obviously delighted they’ve turned to us again for this latest addition to their fleet.
CHASSIS/BODY Volvo B9R / Jonckheere ENGINE 9-litre Volvo D9B TRANSMISSION Volvo I-Shift SEATS 53 SUPPLIED BY Volvo 02476 210250 www.volvobuses.com/ bus/uk/en-gb
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PROFILE › COMMBUS
The Commbus Setra S315 GT which came from Prestige Corporate of Glasgow
Making an exhibition of itself W
hen Mark Clark visits bus and coach shows he’s like most operators, looking at the vehicles he is interested in buying, but for Mark there’s a big difference – he won’t be buying them for another 10 or 20 years. That’s because his company, Commbus, has carved out a valuable niche operation supplying mobile exhibition vehicles, and some of the most popular are former city double-deckers enjoying a new and exciting lease of life. But this is only part of the picture, because the company is also a bona-�ide coach operator with an enviable mix of prestigious corporate work, through local private hire to ferrying school parties. At one time it even ran a small, high quality tours programme. “We like to think we can do anything,” boasts normally modest Mark. He learned his craft as a coach driver with Hallmark, before that company’s original coach operation was acquired by Rotala and merged with Flights. In those days, Hallmark primarily carried airline crews and professional football teams in top-of-the-range executive coaches. Only in his early 20s when he joined Hallmark, the operator had to obtain special dispensation from its insurers because of his age. Mark, who also doubled as a DJ, already had other skills, and when he decided to set up his own business it was to provide PA systems for
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Richard Charnley visits West Midlands-based Commbus, an operator that couldn’t possibly have a more varied business
outdoor events. “I started to think, how can the new company transport its equipment around and what could it use as a platform from which to rig the sound system? As a PCV driver, my answer was – get a bus!” he explains.
Buses with a difference
So it was that 14 years ago he, along with codirector Gordon Hunt, bought an ex-Manchester double-decker and became bus operators – admittedly with ampli�iers and speakers instead of passengers. Gordon’s background was as an electrical engineer and he oversees the technical work that has to be done. A former broadcast engineer and editor, he worked on programmes such as the Tellytubbies and Auf Wiedersehen Pet! Other original members of the Commbus team, Steve Teague and Neil Crowe had broadcasting and transport experience and in designing sound and lighting systems for large outdoor events. Having intended to specialise as a soundsystem provider they were surprised when one of their early clients, an American �ilm editing company, asked them if they could kit out the
double-decker with computerised editing equipment to tour locations throughout the British Isles. Never one to say no to a business opportunity, and already fully committed with their one and only bus, they had no option but to go out and buy another. As the Americans were to be its �irst users, Commbus was able to build a conversion to their exact speci�ication. Mark goes on: “A transport consultancy then contacted us. They were looking for a vehicle that a kitchen company could convert into a mobile showroom for a ‘public consultation’ exercise around Cheltenham. That’s when we realised that we were now in the exhibition business.” So delighted was the �ilm-editing company with the British Isles tour that it immediately re-hired, but this time it wanted to go all over Europe. The original double-decker was too high for use in mainland Europe, so once again Commbus was obliged to buy another bus. This one was harder to source, but eventually a double-deck Setra was tracked down, and in a mutually bene�icial arrangement the Americans bought the vehicle and Commbus converted www.coachandbusweek.com
18/08/2014 09:14
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and operated it for them. For the next three years the Setra criss-crossed Europe – and not just the nice, friendly bits that are in the EU. 26 countries were visited, clocking up thousands of miles and furnishing a wealth of stories of their adventures. During 2004, part of the itinerary involved an eventful trip from Finland into Russia. Mark recounts: “Neil was on that trip, and he had to hire local armed escorts for the entire journey to ensure that there were no problems. To guarantee safe passage, the escorts knew when to open wallets to bribe officials or unfastened holsters when threatened by bandits. They also somehow acquired visas for us – we are certain they must have been black market – but they got us across borders.” Mark has a vivid memory also from this time of a night run from Norway to Slovenia. “It was so cold that the sea was freezing and the ferries had stopped running,” he recalls. Throughout all this they never missed reaching an event in time. Indeed, so dedicated is the company to ensuring total reliability that when in the UK one of the double-deckers broke down on its way to a major event, it came up with an original solution. “We contracted a recovery firm to tow it all the way there and place it in position, where it was demonstrated to the client with all the on-board facilities fully functioning,” he says. “After the event, once the client was safely out of the way, the recovery company returned and towed us home.” With Mark away so much, the business at home continued to just tick over, but when the film-editing company’s contract eventually ended and Mark became more home-based Commbus was able to win more work. One job it ran – a roadshow for Asda – brought it into contact with Clare Macleod, a freelance events manager with a background in marketing and PR for the likes of Apple and IATA. Working
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in the field of exhibition logistics, she started freelancing for Commbus. There must have been more to it than just a job, because as well as now running the administration and marketing for the company she is also Mark’s partner at home.
Wide range of skills
With an already well-established fleet of doubledeckers – including an open topper that has been used as a platform for the speakers at Trafalgar Square rallies – it was again a client who took the firm in another direction. “As well as the mobile exhibition vehicle, could you also transport our staff?” they said. With Mark’s famous habit of saying “Yes” to whatever the client’s question is, the company then had to find a decent coach, and an MAN/Jonckheere was found that Mark knew would be a sound vehicle because it was just like the ones he remembered driving when he first started out at Hallmark. Of course, once you have a ‘proper’ coach, it has to work, and that’s what started Commbus in the private hire business, later leading to the acquisition of a Setra 49-seater to full ‘executive’ specification that had formerly been with the now defunct Prestige Corporate of Glasgow. But there’s a lot more to the company than running old buses and some coaches. The team at Commbus bring a wide range of specialist skills into play in running roadshows, marketing events and educational projects for clients who range from blue-chip corporate businesses to public service organisations. Add to the mix sourcing and converting vehicles for client companies, rigging sound, lighting and audiovisual equipment at events, or hiring out to other organisations from their hire shop, and you get an idea of the range of services on offer. As Clare explains: “We don’t just drive up to the event and park. All the drivers are also technicians who help rig the equipment, set up
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INVENTORY
Commbus fleet list MCW Metrobus Mark 1, ex West Midlands PTE MCW Metrobus Mark 2, ex West Midlands PTE Leyland Atlantean, ex Greater Manchester PTE Daimler Fleetline open topper, ex Nottingham Transport Dennis Trident, ex Nottingham Transport Dennis Tridents x 2, ex Lothian Buses Setra S315 GT, ex Prestige Corporate EOS230, ex Hallmark Cars AEC-PRV Routemaster, ex London Transport displays or open boxes of brochures if that’s what’s needed.” Commbus is based just outside Coleshill, ideally located off the M6 and M42, near to the NEC (National Exhibition Centre), Birmingham Airport and The Belfry Hotel and golf course where the Ryder Cup has been held in the past. When clients visit, the company often uses the upstairs lounge area of one of the doubledeckers – not only can it offer the comfort of leather conference seating and fresh coffee from the on-board galley, but it provides a panoramic view of the company’s facilities. Having outgrown an open yard on an industrial estate, Commbus has recently moved to a new rural location. “On a beautiful summer morning, coming up the third of a mile drive to our yard, driving through open fields while listening to bird song is a fabulous way to start the day!” says Mark, clearly relishing the experience. The secure yard has more than enough room for the ever-expanding fleet and office accommodation, with the bonus of a totally covered area that can accommodate several double-deckers. Although the firm carries out all the interior conversion work itself, servicing
An American school bus that’s being converted into a mobile showroom
Mobile IT training is just one of the services Commbus can offer www.coachandbusweek.com
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Mark Clark: ‘That’s when we realised that we were now in the exhibition business’ August 20, 2014 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 27 18/08/2014 09:15
PROFILE › COMMBUS
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Inside the EOS230 as it’s prepared for flooring specialist, Altro
The fleet includes Nottingham and Lothian Dennis Tridents, the Setra S315 GT and the EOS230 and major maintenance is contracted out. A visiting mechanic is employed who undertakes more specialist tasks and running repairs. Mark is proud that despite the venerable age of some of his vehicles, one that passed its recent MOT with a completely clear score received the compliment from the test centre that it was “an extremely well presented vehicle.” A recent project was to convert yet another double-decker and this presented a challenge in re-locating the vehicle’s fuel tank. Its original location was under one of the lower saloon seats, which prevented it having the open flat floor required for exhibition work, but after much searching a suitable tank was found that provided an (almost) perfect fit – with the assistance of some significant fabrication work – under the stairs. As these vehicles don’t carry passengers, there is some flexibility within the Construction and Use regulations.
A legislative minefield
As the firm discovered in the past, licensing can be a minefield. Is it a bus? Is it a lorry? Is it a mobile home? As there is no existing classification for these vehicles, it’s down to how the company wants to tax them. It now declares them to be LGVs or PCVs as appropriate, and the company holds both PCV and LGV O-licences. Although some of the vehicles are legally classed a ‘heavy motor car’ and can be driven on a car licence, Commbus insists that all those who drive them have the relevant PCV or LGV licences. They acquired their Driver CPC Qualification Cards in good time, having completed the 35 hours training three years ago with a local training company. Many of those who were at the NEC in 2012 for Euro Bus Expo would actually have been on one of Commbus’ vehicles without realising it. It wasn’t one of the manufacturers’ shiny new models, but a rare 1990’s EOS230 that was being used by Altro to demonstrate its range of transport floorings as actually fitted in a 28 | COACH & BUS WEEK | August 20, 2014 026_028_CBW1151_Charnly.indd 28
With the bus, they just install everything once, there’s no venue to hire, and the vehicle can go direct to the potential customers vehicle. At the same time it providing Altro with a hospitality unit, reception and office space. Before and after the show it was on the road touring the country. Mark knew the vehicle because it was a former Hallmark team coach for one of the Premier League football clubs, rumoured to have been Arsenal. “That wasn’t the attraction, though,” claims Mark. “I knew that it had been looked after, and had extra features that we could use, like an auxiliary generator and a rear servery.” Clare explains why companies like the idea of a bus or coach for promoting their products. “Normally with a roadshow they would have to hire venues all over the country, set up and dismantle their displays every time, and then publicise it and hope that people would come. With the bus, they just install everything once, there’s no venue to hire, and the vehicle can go direct to the potential customers – even parking in their car park if necessary.” Unlike some competitors who start with just the vehicle shell, Commbus has some preconverted vehicles. “If the client has a limited budget, and can’t afford a bespoke conversion from scratch, we can provide a vehicle already equipped with the basics – display equipment, power supplies, light and heat,” she said. “They can then customise it to their requirements and have it signed up in their image.” This is where Commbus has developed good relationships with Mike Bolton of SGS Graphic Design. It can do a complete all-over wrap of a double-decker or just a back and front, depending on the brief. There are a couple
Commbus works with SGS Graphic Design which can all-over wrap a double-decker of amazing short films done by time-lapse photography showing one of the doubledeckers being completely wrapped for Anglia Ruskin University, and another of the EOS being transformed for Altro. These are featured on the Commbus100 Google TV channel, and can also be easily found on YouTube. There is always something unusual to see in the Commbus yard. Currently parked in a corner is an American yellow school bus being converted from a camper van to a showroom for a trade association. A regular visitor is a fully licensed Routemaster in traditional London Transport livery, operated by Commbus for its private owner and proving very popular for weddings and school proms. Despite its international operations, Commbus is firmly based in the local community, providing technical support at events for the current ‘Love Coleshill’ campaign which supports high street shops, and also running the sound system for the annual Coleshill and Whitacre show. The firm patronises local businesses whenever possible and has even found a blacksmith in one of the nearby villages that fabricates specialist fittings for it. Never one to rest on its laurels, Commbus is now engaged in talks to acquire another business in a very specialised form of event facility. But not just an ordinary venue – this one incorporates a bus of course! And just to tickle industry insiders, it’s a very rare and classic double-deck bus. Mark’s not giving away any details at the moment, but keep an eye on the Commbus website. As the business grows from strength to strength, the Commbus team have certainly done well out of making an exhibition of themselves! n
Commbus , 32 Church Hill, Coleshill, North Warwickshire, B46 3AJ. Phone: 01675 463555. Email: sales@commbus.com Website: www.commbus.com www.coachandbusweek.com
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The essential read for Minibus Operators
August 2014
MINIBUS Mellor Coachcraft is ready with an Orion Plus demonstrator
Boost for coachbuilt minibuses
A
ccording to Mellor Coachcraft Managing Director Geoff Hudson there has been a signi�icant improvement in demand for coachbuilt minibuses. This has led to major alteration of the structure and layout of the Rochdale plant to improve ef�iciency and increase output. The company’s portfolio expanded recently with its acquisition of the intellectual property and manufacturing assets of Bluebird Vehicles and there has been a resurgence of interest in both the Orion and Tucana models. Former Bluebird Managing Director Rob Miller has joined Mellor to head up business development – seeking new opportunities and maintaining continuity with existing customers. Bluebird engineers John Randerson, Tony Hepples and Tom Scruton have also joined and are heavily involved with technology transfer. Geoff Hudson said the current priority was
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to analyse the warranty issues with Bluebird products and to get them ironed out as quickly as possible. He said there were not many, but they did need to be addressed. While it was anticipated production would move to Rochdale the surge in demand has meant a continuation of minibus building at Scarborough and employment for some of the ex-Bluebird staff. Bluebird Engineering Services has become a supplier to Woodhall Nicholson Group and is producing the framework for the vehicles. An Orion Plus has been liveried in Mellor colours and joined its demonstration �leet. There have also been strong enquiries for Orion from abroad. The positive increase in demand is certainly good news for the coachbuilt sector in general and for former Bluebird employees. Martin Cole MINIBUS Editor
August 20, 2014 | COACH & BUS WEEK MINIBUS | 31 18/08/2014 15:50
MINIBUS › NEWS
Burnt Tree sold to Enterprise Deal takes Enterprise’s fleet of commercial vans and trucks to over 25,000 vehicles Enterprise Rent-a-Car has acquired UK-based commercial vehicle hire specialist Burnt Tree. The purchase increases the breadth of vehicles and services Enterprise can provide to its customers under its flexible commercial vehicle hire division, Flex-E-Rent. The agreement includes Burnt Tree’s diverse commercial fleet of 17,000 vehicles, including commercial vans, HGVs, refrigerated trucks and accessible minibuses, its proprietary fleet management technologies, as well as its network of 20 branches and team of 400 employees. In the immediate short-term, the Enterprise Flex-E-Rent and Burnt Tree businesses will continue to operate as two separate brands, with a view to creating a combined entity headquartered in Shrewsbury. The acquisition, for
an undisclosed sum, significantly increases Enterprise’s value proposition in the flexible commercial vehicle rental sector and will take its fleet of commercial vans and trucks to more than 25,000. Enterprise UK and Ireland Managing Director, Mike Nigro, said: “We are committed to the growth of our flexible commercial vehicle business, which has grown organically in recent years. We could immediately see the potential of Burnt Tree to give our customers access to skills and services which are particularly suited to the needs of commercial vehicle customers. Burnt Tree also has the same culture of delivering outstanding customer service as Enterprise and shares a rich heritage of conducting business in the UK. “Burnt Tree has some unique expertise it can bring to Enterprise and it will also benefit from becoming part of a truly global organisation. The combined
business post-acquisition will be far stronger with greater economies of scale and better technology, while the transfer of knowledge will allow us to better serve our customers.” The new business will be led by Danny Glynn, Director, Enterprise Flex-E-Rent. Burnt Tree Chief Executive, Richard Metcalfe, will remain in an advisory capacity to help steer the direction of the combined business. Richard Metcalfe said: “Last year we stated our ambition to become
the leading and largest business in our industry. In time, this agreement will allow Burnt Tree to achieve its full potential to become the market leader. It will become part of the world’s largest vehicle rental company, which, like Burnt Tree, is privately owned. “I know there are both the vision and resources to grow the business over the long-term, which means there will be opportunities for people here. I would like to thank everyone sincerely at Burnt Tree for all their
Birmingham International goes for top-flight X-Clusive VIP
Birmingham International Coaches has taken delivery of a new Euro 6 X-Clusive VIP Sprinter from EVM. It is based on a Mercedes-Benz 519 Cdi with a 191bhp engine and a seven-speed 7G-Tronic gearbox. The new minicoach was supplied with an electric plug-type entry door with manual emergency release and exterior key lock facility with EVM’s integrated three stage entry step with LED strip lights and stainless steel inserts. The coach rear boot includes a luggage partition incorporating boot pedestal and raised floor. The fold-up half-height shelf is cushioned on its outer edge with high visibility material. Two full length brushed aluminium luggage racks provide additional storage
The high-spec interior include 17” monitors, power points and Executive 110 capacity and include full length strip lighting and blue LED night lights, loudspeakers plus individual passenger service units with reading lights and adjustable air ducts.
32 | COACH & BUS WEEK MINIBUS | August 20, 2014 032_034_CBW1151_MINIBUS_News.indd 32
The customer also specified the large panoramic coach-style windscreen, glass roof panel and large framed, curved, double glazed side windows tinted in privacy grey.
Eberspacher air conditioning is included in-dash along with a heater booster. Two 17” monitors were recessed in the roof at front and rear of coach with connection to FreeView The saloon is equipped with 16 Executive 110 reclining seats with three-point belts, arm rests to aisle sides and leather cushioned cushioned finish. They were upholstered in two-colour real leather. The customer chose EVM’s X-Clusive front bumper spoiler with integrated day-time running lights, wrap around rear bumper spoiler and body moulded side skirts with colour-coded bumpers, side mouldings and front grille with Alcoa alloy wheel trims and EVM’s chrome pack.
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Burnt Tree’s 17,000-strong commercial fleet will transfer to Enterprise
hard work and for making the business such a success. This agreement marks the next phase of growth for the business.” Shrewsbury-headquartered Burnt Tree has been operating for more than 30 years, while Enterprise is celebrating its 20th anniversary in the UK this year. As well as its Flex-ERent division, Enterprise also operates a fleet of more than 60,000 vehicles from the UK’s largest network of car hire branches.
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Third Bob the Bus delivered
A new Bob the Bus-branded vehicle is serving the community in Totnes, and the community transport operator is now providing a summer service to Stoke Gabriel every Tuesday, the Toquay Herald Express reported. The £60,000 Euro 6 MercedesBenz Sprinter minibus, converted by GM Coachwork, was funded with help from the community, who voted for Totnes Community Bus Association in the Big Lottery’s local papers programme in October. The charity was awarded £30,000 capital funding towards a new bus. The new minibus brings the association’s fleet size up to three. Two are used for scheduled services and one is used to hire out to community groups, with or without a driver. There is a scheduled weekday circular route for Totnes which calls at Stoke Gabriel on Fridays. Paul Barber of GM Coachwork told Minibus: “GM has been supplying vehicles to Totnes Community Bus for many years and over this time has developed an excellent relationship with them. This third Bob the Bus will be
GM Coachworks Minibus Sales Specialist Paul Barber (left) with the Totnes Community Bus team a welcome addition to their fleet enabling them to extend their valuable services in and around Totnes.” Totnes Community Bus Coordinator Lyn Price said: “We are using local sustainable transport funding from Devon County Council to increase the patronage on Bob and get the message out that Bob the Bus is for everyone. “As well as a redesigned logo, there are now new signs at the town bus stops. This money has also enabled us to build a new website (www.bobthebus.org.
uk) where people can access the timetables. “It has been a particularly difficult and challenging year for the group due to the road changes. We continue to try to improve the time-keeping of the service whilst meeting the needs of our passengers. The new bus allows us to develop additional services as well as sustain the current routes. “Our success is mainly down to the commitment and reliability of our volunteer drivers, who provide such a personalised friendly service.”
been promoted to Managing Director and will now work in close collaboration with Mobility Networks CEO Mike Simmonds. Stephan brings extensive expertise to the Mobility Networks Group as he has operated within the industry for over 25 years. He was a founder member of REHA Group Automotive and following his move to TMN Europe, he was instrumental in founding the European office. Alongside his specialist team of engineers, assessors and after sales representatives, he will continue building on a proven reputation while introducing additional products and services via the Mobility Networks Group. During this exciting transition, service levels will be unaffected
for existing TMN Europe customers. Stephan said: “Our evolution into Mobility Networks Germany will be of significant benefit to TMN Europe customers, both existing and potential. Since I established TMN Europe in 2004, my team and I have continually focused on delivering the very best in wheelchair accessible products and vehicle conversions. We take pride in our customer centric approach and this ethos perfectly fits with the brand values of Mobility Networks. “I am delighted to have been appointed as Managing Director and look forward to leading the exhibition debut of Mobility Networks at REHACARE in Düsseldorf.”
Mobility Networks expands with TMN Europe acquisition The Mobility Networks Group, a specialist in vehicle access solutions, has extended its operations in Germany with the transformation of TMN Europe into Mobility Networks DE GmbH. Mobility Networks was launched in March 2014, to deliver a comprehensive portfolio of global products to the transport sector. Synergising international manufacturing with regional support, Mobility Networks supplies wheelchair access lifts, ramps, escape hatches, lowered vehicle floors and further solutions to convertors and builders of buses, coaches, WAVs, PTS/ambulances, trams and trains. Based in Berlin and operating on behalf of its Israeli parent
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company, TMN Europe has been a trusted supplier of WAV products for more than six years. Since inception, TMN Europe selectively partnered with quality, global manufacturers to ensure its commercial and domestic customers were only offered the best available products. These included wheelchair hoists, steering adaptations, tiedowns, specialist and automated seating, and the innovative FlexiRamp from API – all now available through Mobility Networks. TMN Europe’s impeccable service levels and commitment to customer care will now continue within Mobility Networks Germany. Stephan Schwartz, Director for TMN Europe has
August 20, 2014 | COACH & BUS WEEK MINIBUS | 33 18/08/2014 18:48
MINIBUS › NEWS
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The new Iveco Daily makes its public debut at the IAA Show in Hanover from September 25
Iveco to introduce eight-speed automatic for Daily IAA Show 2014 public debut for the third generation Iveco Minibus Iveco’s new Daily will be a highlight on the manufacturer’s stand at the 65th IAA Show 2014 in Hanover from September 25 to October 2. Now entering its third generation and making its public debut, the Daily is completely revised with a load volume ef�iciency at the top of its category, best-inclass for volume and capacity, car-like comfort, and with it’s driveability and fuel consumption further optimised. While 80% of
New Avantgarde for Claydon Fox
Claydon Fox Coaches has recently acquired an EVM Avantgarde. The Euro 6 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter
components have been redesigned, the New Daily has preserved its classic ladder frame chassis for strength, versatility and duration over time as well as maximum bodybuilding �lexibility on chassis cab models. In addition to display vehicles, including minibuses and CNGfuelled Daily examples, static exhibits include the new F1C engine, the new HI-MATIC gearbox and the new Quad Leaf suspension. The HI-MATIC eight-speed automatic transmission is claimed to establish high standards of �lexibility, ef�iciency and fuel economy, ensuring maximum 516 Cdi features a 163bhp engine and a seven-speed 7G-Tronic automated gearbox. The vehicle seats up to 16 passengers on Executive 110 reclining seats which have integral grab handles, three-point seatbelts, leather armrests on the aisle sides and are trimmed in a
34 | COACH & BUS WEEK MINIBUS | August 20, 2014 032_034_CBW1151_MINIBUS_News.indd 34
travel comfort. The manufacturer says it changes quicker and more precisely than an expert driver, needing less than 200 milliseconds for a gear shift when greater acceleration is required. An exhibition area reserved for larger Euro VI engines showcases Iveco’s HI-SCR (High Ef�iciency selective catalytic reduction) system, which is patented by FPT Industrial. It claims to achieve outstanding internal engine combustion thanks to the intake of outside air; and will be featured on Euro VI engines for vehicles within the Iveco Bus and Iveco Stralis ranges. Protected by multiple combination of leather and OEM seat fabric. EVM’s electric plug-type entry door with manual emergency release and exterior key lock facility was speci�ied to compliment the three-stage entry step with LED strip lights and stainless steel inserts. The
patents, the innovative HI-SCR technology offers an exclusive solution which does not require EGR (exhaust gas recirculation) and DPF (diesel particulate �ilter) regeneration, thus lowering total cost of ownership. Combined with an advanced aerodynamic design, HI-SCR helps reduce fuel consumption by an extra 2.33% in comparison to the previous Euro V engine generation (certi�ied by TUV). Iveco Bus displays include a Daily minibus produced in-house and a 12m Crossway Low Entry, suitable for both urban and interurban transport. customer also opted to retain standard rear hinged doors for access to the full depth drop boot which has a half-height shelf. Two full length parcel racks provide further luggage space in the saloon. These are �inished in brushed aluminium with strip lighting, blue LED night lights.
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000000-1150-Eberspacher 04/08/2014 11:40 Page 1
MINIBUS › LEGAL NEWS
Wangping Travel licence revoked Sole Director Ms Jie Song disqualified for nine months after a string of poor maintenance arrangements, S-marked prohibitions and driver offences. James Day reports After finding a number of serious issues with the business Deputy Traffic Commissioner (DTC) for Scotland, Simon Evans, revoked the licence of Wangping Travel with effect from July 31, 2014. Proprietor Ms Jie Song was disqualified from holding or obtaining an O-licence for nine months. Three of the company’s drivers were also punished. Driver Cassidy’s PCV licence was revoked with immediate effect and he was disqualified from holding or obtaining the same for 12 months. Driver Black received a 12 week licence suspension, while Driver Ross’ licence was suspended for eight weeks.
Background
Wangping Travel Ltd is the holder of a restricted PSV O-licence for two vehicles, originally granted on February 14, 2012. The sole director of the company is Ms Jie Song. The company is a travel agency with a largely Chinese clientele and facilitates tourism between China and Scotland but also into England. The vehicles are deployed to carry passengers from the airport but also on trips and tours while clients are staying in Scotland. The present licence was granted in succession to a sole trader licence of Ms Jie Song trading as Wangping Travel, which was allowed to be surrendered at the same Public Enquiry (PI) at which the present licence was granted, upon a change of entity being noted. That conjoined PI had been called to consider the new application but also
an unsatisfactory maintenance inspection following an S-marked prohibition. This was issued for luggage blocking an emergency exit for the predecessor business. A warning letter had been issued to the operator on June 20, 2013 following a fleet inspection on May 4, 2013 which had followed the issue of an S-marked prohibition during an annual test of a vehicle and a subsequent unsatisfactory maintenance inspection.
The public inquiry
The second PI was called to consider matters which principally related to the regime for the maintenance of vehicles, the issue of prohibitions and the good repute and financial standing of the operator. The call-up letter also referred in particular to a joint investigation by the DVSA and Police Scotland following a stopcheck of a vehicle and allegations thereafter made about three
The evidence
VE Pugh had been on duty with PC Fitzpatrick, when one of the operator’s vehicles was stopped on June 20, 2013, carrying one passenger, an interpreter, in the course of the business of Wangping Travel. The attention of the police officer was drawn by the passenger not wearing a seatbelt While Driver Cassidy held a driving licence with a D1 entitlement appropriate for the vehicle in use, this was restricted to prevent him from driving for hire or reward. He was found not to be in possession of his record sheets for the previous 28 days’ driving. The vehicle was seized as a result. The use of the vehicle by a driver not properly licensed had the effect of invalidating its insurance
I was surprised that a licence holder over so many years would appear before me and so readily offer ignorance as the reason for company defaults
drivers employed in the business relating to the their entitlements to drive vehicles on behalf of the company and the impact of them not being so qualified on the insurance position for the vehicles themselves and for passengers carried. At the hearing, Ms Song was present, legally represented by Peter Burke. Also present were Vehicle Examiners (VE) Pugh and Wylie, together with PC Fitzpatrick of the Police Scotland Roads Policing Unit. An application for an
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adjournment had been made by Mr Burke on behalf of the operator two days before the hearing, which was refused.
cover. Driver Cassidy had driven in similar circumstances on 17 days in total from March 31 to June 20, 2013. When charts were later examined, it was also found that a false entry had been made, when he used a chart that carried the name ‘Anderson,’ when it was him that had been driving. A letter from the operator dated May 4, 2013, provided a direct assurance by Ms Song that Driver Cassidy would no longer be used by the business. In fact, the records showed he was deployed to drive that day and on four further
occasions, including the day of the stop-check. PC Fitzpatrick visited the premises of Wangping Travel on July 1, 2013. A request was made to produce record sheets for all drivers for the period March 31, 2013 to June 26, 2013. The officer was directed to a back office where, in a plastic bag, were hundreds of disorganised records dating back to 2009. He removed all of them in order to process and locate the relevant records. So far as other drivers were concerned, the records for Driver Black disclosed that while he held a licence with a D1 entitlement appropriate for the vehicle in use, this was restricted to vehicles with automatic transmission. The vehicles in use in the business had manual gearboxes. This had the effect of invalidating the insurance cover for the vehicle.
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While all three drivers investigated had licences, none of them were appropriate for the work they undertook
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KEY POINTS Wangping Travel had a n history of non-compliance, the current O-licence having been granted at PI where an S-marked prohibition was being investigated The DVSA and Police n Scotland found three drivers employed by Wangping did not have the appropriate licences to drive its vehicles
Another S-marked n prohibition for the same offence as at the previous PI,
luggage blocking an emergency exit, had been issued Proprietor Ms Jie Song n showed poor control of her staff and maintenance
contractors, which led to poor compliance and a 0% first time MOT pass rate. She had a number of holes in her knowledge, but was open and honest about her shortcomings Deputy Traffic n Commissioner Simon Evans found that the number
Driver Black had driven in similar circumstances on four days in total in the period from June 22 to June 25, 2013. He said he had been asked for and had supplied his licence to Ms Song when taken on. No records for Driver Ross were found, but it was later established that he too was the holder of a licence with a D1 entitlement appropriate for the vehicles in use, but restricted from driving vehicles for hire or reward. In his case his full entitlement expired in 2009. He had worked for Ms Song for five years and had supplied a copy of his driving licence when initially employed. Again, the insurance cover for the vehicle was invalidated. Driver Ross had driven in similar circumstances on eight days in total in the period from March 31 to May 10, 2013. Enquiries in relation to other
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drivers could not be pursued as it was impossible to decipher the names on the records or link them with the list of drivers employed by the operator. In interview with PC Fitzpatrick, Ms Song admitted responsibility for the offences disclosed, pleading ignorance of the relevant legislation and despite having taken copies of the driving licences, a lack of understanding of the codes on them.
Jie Song
Questioned by Mr Burke, PC Fitzgerald said he formed the impression when speaking to Ms Song that there was no checking process for driver records in place and that she didn’t know how to check driving licences. He said no explanation was given for the records being stored together in the manner they were
and in his opinion there was no evidence of management of the transport operation by her, or the presence of any other person with such expertise. VE Wylie visited the operator on four occasions to carry out investigations. His initial visit on April 30, 2013 was prompted because the operator had accrued an S-marked prohibition at MOT: a parking brake had been found to be inoperative and was judged by the issuing officer as being apparent to any driver. The maintenance investigation was found to be unsatisfactory: there was no recording of brake check readings by the maintenance contractor, the driver defect reporting system did not show signs that it was checked or that defects were marked as rectified by a manager. It was said that vehicles were not effectively prepared for
of concerns he had about the business was too great to allow it to continue or expect it to be compliant in future. He also couldn’t believe someone with eight years experience in the industry continued to use ignorance as a defence MOT and that there were questions about the effectiveness of the contractor used. The visit and inspection on October 16, 2013 was triggered by a further S-marked prohibition for suitcases obstructing a rear emergency exit of one of the operator’s vehicles. The outcome was again recorded as unsatisfactory. Up to date compliance history was available, from which the DTC noted prohibition rates well in excess of the national average, and that no vehicle in 2013 or 2014 had passed an MOT at first presentation. It was the conclusion of VE Wylie that the statement of intent
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MINIBUS › LEGAL NEWS and undertakings attached to the licence were not being complied with. He was not convinced that the change of maintenance contractor would help, or that drivers were being effectively managed. When asked for a professional opinion about the overall shortcomings, he said that the business was essentially a travel agency. He was unclear who the drivers reported to and said “it could have been anyone.” He said it was his belief that Ms Song was trying to do things properly, but she was over dependent on others to do what they ought to, whether contractors, her staff or drivers. She was “out of her depth” in terms of what was required and “wholly reliant” on others. There were systems but they were simply not being complied with. Mr Burke made some opening representations on behalf of Ms Song, which she later confirmed as accurately reflecting her position. She accepted that “the buck stops with her” and that resolving the matters raised by VE Wylie was a “work in progress.” Signage to avoid repetition of the luggage blocking problems had been created. In evidence, Ms Song admitted that the provision of the new maintenance contract had been delayed. She said she had been naïve about the employment of drivers and was now checking better and would work in liaison with DVLA and that she was willing to find out what the correct procedures were. She had been unaware of the deployment of Driver Cassidy after her letter promising he would not be used, blaming her staff. “I indicated to her that in my view, as a licence holder who had given undertakings to ensure compliance with the law, she could not hide behind such an explanation,” the DTC said. “Ms Song offered that she was ‘very busy’ and that she kept ‘flying back to China four times per year.’ She admitted that her ‘knowledge is very limited’ about driving licences. Asked about the charts in the bag, she explained that her staff members were very busy but that the records were now kept in
folders.” The DTC was given written materials by the operator during the PI, which included: a log of approved drivers which had been completed since June 2013 (which appeared to show a driver detected not to have Driver CPC); a written warning to a manager, Yan Yao on June 21, 2013 for allowing Driver Cassidy to drive vehicles after May 4, 2013; a vehicle maintenance pro-forma which seemed to have been created from excerpts of the maintenance reports provided by the contractor; and information sheet downloaded from the internet advertising training courses through ‘The Minibus website.’ A course entitled ‘minibus manager training’ was marked; in-house records showing vehicle SV58 ETK was used for 26 days in the period March to June 2014, and vehicle CN55 EWZ was used for four days in the period January to May 2014; and an accountant’s letter providing evidence on the basis of their preliminary review about turnover and profit before tax for the year ended May 31, 2014. Ms Song said she had purchased a digital tachograph vehicle in February 2014. The DTC asked her about training for the new technology but there had not been any. She believed drivers ought to know how to operate the equipment. Downloading of the vehicle unit had not been undertaken after more than 56 days.
Submissions
Mr Burke stated that Ms Song did not claim this was a satisfactory arrangement. He said he accepted this was not a warning case, but also claimed there was a public interest in the licence being allowed to continue. He made reference to the charity work carried out by the operator and to the contribution made to the local economy and relations between Scotland and China. He asked that a period of grace be allowed for her to demonstrate that changes and improvements could be made. The DTC sought some clarification about how the licence was operated during periods of her extended absence. He was told that
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Wangping Travel received two S-marked prohibitions for emergency exits blocked with luggage periods away were typically for a month at a time about three times per year. “I expressed surprise when I was initially told that Ms Song would check in with her staff ‘once per month’ but this was later clarified as being more regular,” he said. “I was assured that training had been booked for her managers but not shown a receipt for a booked place.” “I asked for information about the impact of any order that I might make. I was told that the immediate implications of a revocation of the licence were that work might be sub-contracted, as some of it sometimes had been, but that such a financial model was not viable in the longer term. The busy season was underway and would run though to September. “I was told the impact of suspension would be an inability
to meet contract bookings of which there were a number. Reduction of the fleet size to a single vehicle would also create problems at busier times.” Ms Song asked for the opportunity to put things right. She claimed to be capable, that she wanted to be correct and that maybe she needed help.
Findings
Simon Evans made the following findings based on the evidence heard and the documents read: l The operator did not substantively challenge the findings of VE Pugh and VE Wylie; l The operator accepted that the offences referred to by PC Fitzgerald had been committed; l There had been a change of maintenance contractor where no contract had been supplied, there were poor MOT pass rates,
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shortcomings in driver defect reporting and maintenance arrangements such that it was clear there had been breaches of conditions, the statement of intent and undertakings attached to the licence; l Immediate S-marked prohibitions had been issued within six months of each other and the matter where luggage blocked an emergency exit mirrored a similar matter dealt with at the previous PI; l There were no issues as to the timeliness of maintenance inspections; and l The financial requirement had been met.
Considerations
The DTC said: “On the basis of the findings made I am satisfied there are grounds for making a direction against the licence. “Whether the operator is of good repute is closely concerned with my view about the capability and competence of Ms Song, as the sole director of the business for which she appears to have almost total responsibility and as a result, the confidence which I can have in the company, as represented in the actions of its director. I did not judge from what I heard that anyone else played any significantly material role in matters of licence compliance raised before the PI. It was clear to me that no-one had any clear responsibility for, or expertise in, the running of a transport operation, the management of contractors, or the handling drivers. “While undertakings had been signed up to there was only limited and general evidence of a commitment to comply with them. There was evidence in paperwork of staff needing to sign to accept responsibility for their actions but no evidence that they understood what was needed, or had any training for it. “I was left with a distinct impression of someone who had very little concept of the seriousness of the predicament faced. I asked myself whether I might be unduly affected by cultural or language issues but do not find that to be relevant. I was surprised that a licence holder over so many years would appear before
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me and so readily offer ignorance as the reason for company defaults. “I found the evidence of DVSA and police witnesses to be credible and consistent. I accept their view that Ms Song is passionate about her business and the fostering of links between China and Scotland but she is wholly incapable of delivering against the promises made in the undertakings and the statement of intent. While her statements about her lack of expertise, being too busy and ignorance of the world in which she had placed her business were a refreshingly honest and transparent assessment of her position, they provide me with very little assurance that serious shortcomings can be put right. “The position she describes whereby there is a business need to return to China for about a quarter of the year only serves to compound the position. There is no evidence of any other staff member with adequate understanding to step into her shoes. I do not
thorough briefing of drivers and represents a wholly unacceptable repetition of conduct. “The incidents whereby three separate drivers are employed in the business when none of them have the correct professional entitlement are of course very serious. While the drivers themselves carry some responsibility for the negligent or deliberate offering up of themselves for employment in circumstances where they could not take it, this does not absolve the operator – far from it. The ultimate duty is on an operator to provide a service to its clients that is compliant with its licence but critically one that provides safe journeys for them, in vehicles driven by fully qualified drivers with insurance arrangements in the event that there are problems. This operator did not achieve either of these key objectives and in the period in question was responsible for as many as 30 trips where the use was uninsured. This is a
judge the course offered for her manager to have the depth of detail to it that one of the trade bodies or organisations might offer. Equally, I have no sense if that staff member has the capacity to carry out the role, or that levels of communication within the business would support such an arrangement. “Turning to the context for this consideration, namely the issue of S-marked prohibitions and the investigation leading to the reporting of offences by three drivers and multiple offences by the company, I record that while the April 2013 S-marked prohibition has relevance to my findings, I need to be careful in elevating the importance of matters that had already been dealt with. The prohibition for the blocking of the exit though is a matter of some seriousness, entirely avoidable by
dreadful example that also serves to undermine confidence in the PSV trade as a whole. “In conducting the balancing exercise required, I set against these adverse matters the openness and honest commitment of Ms Song to operate compliantly as well as the steps taken, such as they are, to seek to secure compliance with licence requirements. I am not however, convinced they are purposeful since they do not address the key issue which is that day to day there would need to be someone with clear responsibility for licence compliance and a thorough knowledge level. Almost the last thing that Ms Song told me was that she may need help in order to be compliant but there was no detail to what the help might be, who would supply it and that she would be capable of following the advice in what was
‘I would not be doing my public duty if I were to countenance arrangements where Ms Song could continue to hold a licence and be principally responsible for licence compliance’
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clearly her business, with her rules. Such an offer was in any event for me much too little, much too late.
Decision
The DTC continued: “Asking myself whether this operator will, in future, run in compliance with the operator’s licensing regime, I am not satisfied at all. By her own admission Ms Song has been in the PSV business for eight years, yet still claims she lacks expertise and falls down on some of the most fundamental of requirements of the licence. “There is no coherent plan which can improve that position and it seems that the operator lumbers from issue to issue with no focus on overall compliance. It is her lack of any effective control of staff, drivers and of the activities of the maintenance contractor that remain at the root of the problem. “The purchase of the vehicle with digital tachograph equipment provides a good example of the issues facing this operation. What would in normal circumstances be regarded as a positive and forward thinking development, has in reality, due to the absence of a training or understanding of the rules, led to further likely default. “On balance, I conclude repute is lost and this operator is incapable of compliant operation. It is right for this operator to be put out of the business. I have taken account of the difficulties created for a business engaged in tourism without a licence, but have concluded that both the needs of road safety and fair competition are such that this is proportionate. “I have gone on to consider whether it is appropriate to disqualify Ms Song from holding or obtaining an O-licence. I conclude that such a course is entirely proportionate with my findings and judge that nine months represents a suitable period of disqualification. This is a second appearance at a PI in a very short period facing matters going to the heart of the issue of her capability to hold and operate a licence. I would not be doing my public duty if I were to countenance arrangements where Ms Song could continue to hold a licence and be principally responsible for licence compliance.” n
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THE BIG PICTURE Stagecoach Oxford’s £10m fleet of 26 new Van Hool Astromega TDX double-deck coaches for the Oxford Tube have been progressively replacing five-year-old Van Hool Astromega TD927s, which are being cascaded to Stagecoach West Scotland. The latest additions, also supplied by Arriva Bus & Coach, are 14.205m long and are powered by Euro 6 compliant Paccar (DAF) MX13 engines that are being run on B30 fuel. They seat 81, down from 87 for more legroom and passengers benefit from 4G WiFi and USB charging points. Most noticeably, they have glass roofs helping to make the upper deck interior much brighter. Andy Izatt photographed one of them turning into Buckingham Palace Road in London on its final approach to Victoria.
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18/08/2014 12:30
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18/08/2014 12:30
MINIBUS › NEW MERCEDES-BENZ VITO
Vito versatility expanded The new Mercedes-Benz Vito moves towards Euro 6 with revisions designed to keep it well ahead in the light commercial sector. The range now includes front, rear and all-wheel drive options, three lengths, increased load capacity and a host of on-board safety and driver assistance features
M
ercedes-Benz has left no stone unturned in redeveloping its Vito package for Euro 6 compliance. As a result, Vito becomes more versatile with a permissible GVW (Gross Vehicle Weight) between 2.8 and 3.2 tonnes. Its appearance has been lifted to be both eye-catching and functional – inside and out. It has a new, high-quality, driver-friendly cockpit, economical drivetrain options and increased payloads. The range naturally comprises panel vans, crew cabs and a new Tourer minibus family with three options - Vito Tourer Base, PRO and SELECT. The Vito front-wheel drive option, being lighter, delivers the highest payload in its class. The Vito Tourer’s specification levels mean it can be acquired off-the-shelf for basic shuttle duties, dual purpose functions or for executive or corporate-style operations.
Design
In line with brand identity, Vito has a bold new radiator grille which greatly increases airflow to the radiator. It has distinctive, sharply contoured, wing-shaped halogen headlamps which can be optionally replaced by an ILS (Intelligent Lighting System). Vito’s revised and contoured front sculpture is also dynamic and provides a measurable benefit with a Cd value of 0.32 – cutting wind resistance which reduces fuel consumption and improves
performance. Special roof rails, which form the basis for carrier systems are also available and keep the overall height below 2.0 metres - which is important for accessing multi-storey car parks, garages and automatic car washes. The rear light clusters are located higher to make the vehicle more noticeable to other road users and can also be specified in LED format to reduce electrical consumption. Hinged rear doors also become an option to the traditional rear tailgate.
Interior
Driver and passenger comfort has been significantly improved by contoured seats featuring larger seat cushions and backrests to provide better support. They are trimmed in attractive, durable cloth material. The driver’s seat is also height-adjustable. Optional ‘comfort’ seats for the driver and passenger allow the seating surface angle to be adjusted. They have an armrest on the inside and four-way head restraints. Just like on MercedesBenz saloon cars, door-mounted seat adjustment
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switches allow electropneumatic adjustment of lumbar support with two air cushions in each backrest. A memory function stores seat adjustment settings. The three-spoke steering wheel is adjustable either as standard or as special equipment depending on the model. An optional multifunction steering wheel with trip computer allows the driver to operate the radio, navigation system, telephone and instrument cluster without relinquishing control. On models with a six-speed manual transmission the joysick gear selector is retained. If the 7G-Tronic automatic transmission is specified the selector becomes a steering-column lever to save space while being conveniently placed. The centre console contains the double DIN audio system at the top with fresh air outlets either side. If a tachograph is required it can be installed in another DIN slot at the bottom of the centre console. Useful stowage space is also incorporated into the dash top for papers, clipboards, tablets and other items. They are partially covered to prevent annoying reflections appearing in
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Mercedes-Benz OM 651. The OM 622 is installed in all three lengths and the two weight variants: 2.8t and 3.05t permissible gross vehicle weights. Emission control is via exhaust gas recirculation, a diesel particulate filter and an oxidation catalytic converter. The engine currently meets requirements for Euro 5b+ emissions standards and is ready for the future Euro 6 emissions standard. Two power ratings are available: l Vito 109 CDI, 88bhp at 3,800rpm, max. torque 230Nm at 1,500–2,000rpm l Vito 111 CDI, 114bhp at 3,800rpm, max. torque 270Nm at 1,500–2,500rpm
OM 651
Vito Tourer SELECT has colour-coded bumpers and bodyparts as standard the windscreen. The middle compartment can accommodate A4 documentation. A 12-volt socket is installed underneath the centre console. A large glove compartment, door spaces and an optional open compartment beneath the centre console can store more items.
Entertainment electronics
Entry level Vitos feature the Audio 10 system (double DIN format) which has a 3.5” monochrome display, Bluetooth telephony, telephone keypad, phone book and SD memory card slot. A USB 2.0 port and AUX input are located nearby in the cockpit. The Audio 10 plays a range of formats such as WMA, MP3, AAC and WAV. Options include the Audio 15 with a 5.8” display with TFT technology and a CD player. It is possible to use mobile devices via its USB 2.0 port. If a reversing camera is installed, the picture can be shown on the display. Audio 15 may be linked to the optional Becker MAP navigation device.
Driveline
The new front-wheel drive model has a transversely-mounted, the compact OM 622
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turbodiesel engine providing a 120kg advantage in payload over the outgoing model. The OM 622 is a four-cylinder unit with a displacement of 1.6 litres and a prime example of systematic downsizing for low fuel consumption. It features a double overhead camshaft and direct injection, four-valves per cylinder, an advanced crossflow cylinder head, low-friction coating for the cylinder liners and steel pistons with stressrelieved, low-friction, piston rings. Common-rail injection technology works with an injection pressure of maximum 1,600 bar supplying piezoelectric injection nozzles with seven holes for fast, precise response. A VNT turbocharger ensures immediate response and fast build-up of output at lower engine speeds along with appealing performance at high revs. The engine is said to behave like a large one in terms of power delivery. It has an almost square design with 80mm bore and a stroke of 79.5mm which creates both high pulling power and revving ability. Long maintenance intervals up to a maximum 25,000 miles or two years reduce costs. It has the same service life as the larger and proven
Rear-wheel drive models feature the 2.15 litre, four cylinder OM 651 which has a long stroke configuration of 83mm bore and a stroke of 99mm to create high pulling power. It has a double overhead camshaft and four valves per cylinder. Two-stage turbocharging comprises a small high-pressure turbocharger to ensure good responsiveness from low revs and a large lowpressure turbocharger is responsible for high output at higher revs. The combination means substantial peak torque is available from extraordinarily low revs and over a broad engine speed range. The engines attain a high specific output, as well as high torque. The lower two power ratings for the OM 651 meet the requirements of the Euro 5b+. Emission control is via exhaust gas recirculation, a diesel particulate filter and an oxidation catalytic converter. In its highest power rating the engine is already Euro 6 compliant. As Euro 6 cannot be attained by engine modifications alone it incorporates SCR technology (Selective Catalytic Reduction) with BlueTEC engine technology and injects AdBlue into exhaust gases to reduce emissions. The AdBlue tank on the new Vito has a capacity of around 11.5 litres and its filler neck is located underneath the diesel fill point. Power ratings for the OM 651 are: l Vito 114 CDI, 136bhp at 3,800rpm, max. torque 330Nm at 1,200-2,400rpm l Vito 116 CDI, 163bhp at 3,800rpm, max. torque 380Nm at 1,400-2,400rpm l Vito 119 BlueTEC, 190bhp at 3,800rpm, max. torque 440Nm at 1,400-2,400rpm Notably, Vito 119 BlueTEC delivers performance equivalent to the previous sixcylinder unit with the fuel consumption of a four-cylinder version. A conventional six-speed manual transmission is available for front and rear-wheel drive models. The ratios are tuned specifically to the Vito and cover a range from i=4.182 to 0.549 along with the need for high starting performance when laden and for less revving – and therefore more economical, quieter driving at higher speeds.
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MINIBUS › NEW MERCEDES-BENZ VITO
Mercedes-Benz family grille design dramatically improves airflow
Steering wheel adjusts for height and angle
Compact installation within the engine bay
Split passenger seats can be folded to make tables
The ECO Gear six-speed manual transmission is also available in conjunction with rear-wheel drive and the Mercedes-Benz OM 651 engine. With its wide spread and ratios from i=5.076 to 0.675 it ensures maximum traction when moving off as well as low revs for a quiet, fuelsaving driving style at higher road speeds. Its lifetime filling with low-friction oil means the transmission now runs more smoothly and economically. The 7G-Tronic PLUS automatic transmission with torque converter is designed for maximum fuel economy. It is available as an option for the OM 651 with the bottom and mid power rating and as standard for the most powerful version. Employed for the first time in the Vito, the 7G-Tronic provides a wide spread with high traction at low road speeds and fewer revs at high speeds. The automatic transmission is combined with an ECO start/stop function which responds quickly. Low slippage with the lock-up clutch creates a direct connection at the accelerator pedal and raises agility. At the same time fuel consumption is lowered. Shift points are precision-tuned to the engine characteristics. A torsional damper ensures operation is comfortable even at very low revs and provides slip control for the torque converter lock-up clutch from a low load. The development
engineers also optimised the way the oil heats up during cold running and the torque converter’s hydraulic system. This heats the oil quickly to minimise friction losses after a cold start. Further fuel economy is derived from a new differential in the rear axle which has optimised geometry for the tooth surfaces. The new assembly is said to run more smoothly and is quieter. A low-friction oil developed specially for Mercedes-Benz and exceptionally low-friction ball bearings also play a part. New technology employed in powering auxiliary systems is also responsible for gains in efficiency. The new electromechanical power steering system requires energy only when the steering wheel is turned. Because it is speeddependent, power consumption decreases considerably at high speed. Mercedes-Benz claims what look like small changes to the auxiliary units have resulted in big savings. Intelligent management sees the alternator preferentially charged in overrun mode rather than when accelerating or travelling at a constant speed, therefore, all engine power is available to the drive system without restriction. The electric fuel pump controls the fuel supply on a demand basis so the rated flow is variable. The same applies to the engine oil pump. The belt-driven supercharger for the optional air
conditioning is only active when the unit is switched on.
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BlueEfficiency
The BlueEfficiency package is available for all Vitos with an OM 651 engine and rear-wheel drive and is standard for all Vito Tourers with automatic transmission and a car registration, as well as all models with the most powerful engine (190bhp). BlueEfficiency comprises the ECO start/stop function which independently switches off the engine while the vehicle is at a standstill, provided no gear is engaged and the clutch pedal is not being operated. On vehicles with the automatic transmission in mode D it is enough to stop with the foot brake pressed. In conjunction with ECO start/stop the Vito is equipped with an additional buffer battery to support power supply to electrical consumers when starting the engine. Alternator management has been optimised for greater efficiency and tyres with reduced rolling resistance are fitted. Revised underbody panelling improves the aerodynamics, reducing fuel consumption further.
Suspension
As before, Vito’s front axle is based on McPherson struts with lower wishbones. The rear axle
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retains independent suspension on semitrailing arms and coil springs for sophistication. The spring and damper tuning is new. The shock absorbers on the rear axle have been repositioned. Anti-roll bars at the front and rear reduce the roll angle on bends. There are two different rear-axle configurations, one to suit panel van and crew models designed for high loads while a comfort suspension is provided as an option for the crew and as standard on all Vito Tourer models. It has softer springs and more sensitive shock absorber control increasing its ability to absorb the effects of unevenness, road noise and tyre vibration.
Wheels and Brakes
The standard 16-inch braking system has fade-resistant disc brakes all-round (internally ventilated at the front). On certain models with the most powerful engine and a GVW of 3.2t, the Vito has a 17-inch braking system as standard. Standard equipment is 6.5 J x 16 steel wheels with 195/65 R 16 (2.8t permissible gross vehicle weight) or 205/65 R 16 (3.05t) tyres. 225/60 R 16 tyres are an option. 17” steel wheels are also available with 225/55 R 17 tyres (standard with the most powerful engine, 3.2t GVW). Light-alloy wheels of 16”, 17”, 18” and 19” are an option.
Noise
NVH, or noise, vibration and harshness, has come under considerable scrutiny and resulted in a 2 dB(A) reduction in noise level compared to the preceding version. With the front axle and engine now more rigid and less prone to vibration, the engine subframe is more rigid and has tougher mountings. The orientation of the drive system has been optimised so the prop shaft’s angular offset is virtually nil – contributing significantly to reduction in vibration and noise. Vito Tourer models employ premium acoustic materials to provide further insulation. The passenger compartment benefits from baffles in the body cavities. These are plastic parts with foam seal strips which are fitted prior to painting. They expand under the effect of heat and close off cavities which could transfer unwanted sound. Sound-deadening mats sprayed with customised layer thicknesses are used to prevent vibrations and noise. Repositioned shock absorbers on the rear axle prevent thumping noises from the chassis. The springs and dampers have been redesigned for audible acoustic benefits, as well as to improve handling characteristics.
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(Electronic Brake Prefill) and adaptive brake lights. New systems include airbags and a seat belt reminder for both the driver and passenger as standard. Vito Tourer PRO and Vito Tourer SELECT models also come with windowbags and thorax/ pelvis sidebags in the front as standard with optional windowbags in the saloon. PRE-SAFE increases the passive safety. In critical driving situations which could lead to an accident, the system activates preventive measures to protect vehicle occupants by tensioning seat belts, closing windows and positioning the electrically adjustable front passenger seat. Attention Assist draws conclusions as to the driver’s condition by processing over 70 different measured variables. If it detects signs of increasing inattention or drowsiness, the driver is warned acoustically and by a symbol on the instrument cluster to take a break. Crosswind Assist is standard and virtually eliminates the effects of gusts acting on the vehicle, within the bounds of the laws of physics. The required extent of countersteering is reduced, thereby markedly relieving the strain on the driver. Crosswind Assist is activated from a speed of 50mph. The system uses the ESP sensors for yaw rate and lateral acceleration to detect forces acting on the vehicle from crosswinds and gusts. It brakes individual wheels on the side of the vehicle facing the wind as needed. Tyre pressure monitoring is also standard equipment. It measures the air pressure of individual tyres and issues a warning on the instrument cluster if there is a loss of air.
Intelligent Light System
With a total of 34 LEDs, the Intelligent Light System is combined with Adaptive Highbeam Assist and adapts light distribution to the given driving situation.
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Dynamic headlamp range control for country roads distributes the light of the low-beam headlamps so the left-hand edge of the road is also well illuminated. When the fog lamp is activated the left-hand LED headlamp pivots outwards by eight degrees and simultaneously lowers its light cone. At speeds above 62mph the enhanced fog light function is automatically switched off again. Activation of the new motorway mode takes place automatically. When driving straight ahead at speeds of 68mph and above, the setting of the headlamp on the inside of the lane additionally changes at 81mph at the latest to illuminate the roadway over a distance of around 120 metres. The active light function works with both the low-beam and main-beam functions. Its electronic control unit uses current information about the steering angle, yaw rate and road speed. The LED modules follow the driver’s steering wheel movements and can pivot sideways by 15 degrees in a split second whenever the driver enters a bend. Sharper bends are then better illuminated.
Active Parking Assist
Optional Active Parking Assist is new and unique. It detects suitable parking spaces at speeds of up to 18mph. Spaces only need to be one metre longer than the vehicle. If the driver accepts the assistance system’s suggestion, all he/she has to do is engage the correct gear, and operate the accelerator (up to max. 6mph) and brake pedal. Parking Assist performs the necessary steering manoeuvres.
Distance warning function
Collision Prevention Assist, Vito’s distance warning function, aims to prevent serious rearend collisions. It provides a warning when the
Safety
Vito already has a high level safety features including Adaptive ESP, ABS, ASR, EBV, BAS, Hill-Start Assist, Load Adaptive Control, ROM/ RMI, EUC, automatic brake disc wiping in wet conditions and anticipatory preparation of the brake linings in critical driving situations
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042_046_CBW1151_MINIBUS_Vito.indd 45
Vito Tourer BlueEfficiency SELECT meets Euro 6 emissions requirements
August 20, 2014 | COACH & BUS WEEK MINIBUS | 45 18/08/2014 15:47
MINIBUS › NEW MERCEDES-BENZ VITO
Multifunction steering wheel is standard on SELECT but optional on other variants
Tourer SELECT has comfortable seats and carpeted floor distance from the vehicle in front is too short, escalating this to another level and applying the brakes if there is an acute risk of collision. Initially, a warning lamp lights up on the instrument cluster. A dynamic distance warning is triggered as soon as the closing speed and distance becomes dangerous and an audible warning is the issued. Additional Adaptive Brake Assist supports the driver through the critical braking situation. If the driver applies too little brake pressure, Adaptive Brake Assist automatically increases the pressure to a target level required to avoid an accident. The driver can override this intervention at any time by pressing the pedal more firmly. Intervention is aborted if the driver performs an evasive manoeuvre, removes their foot from the brake or uses the accelerator.
Blind Spot Assist
Blind Spot Assist informs the driver if there are other vehicles in the blind spot. It becomes active from a speed of 19mph and utilises two near-range radar sensors in the rear bumper and covers the area to the left and right in adjacent lanes. If these sensors detect a car or motorcycle in the blind spot, a red hazard warning triangle lights up in the relevant exterior mirror. If the assistance system detects the driver has activated the indicator and wants to change lanes anyway, an audible warning is issued and the red warning symbol starts to flash.
Lane Keeping Assist
Involuntary lane changes which can occur when the driver is distracted may be avoided with
optional Lane Keeping Assist. A camera monitors the road surface ahead while the control unit continuously analyses the data and recognises the lane and its markings through contrast comparison. If the vehicle is threatening to cross the side markings without indicating or without a change in the accelerator or brake pedal positions, the control unit assumes the vehicle is leaving the lane unintentionally and warns the driver by vibrating the steering wheel. The warning sensitivity may be set via the instrument cluster.
Economy
On average, consumption of diesel in the NEDC testing cycle is 20% less than for the preceding version. Depending on the model, the difference may amount to up to 32%. Results showed a certified figure of 49.6mpg for the Vito 116 CDI BlueEfficiency with a 163bhp engine and truck registration. Mercedes-Benz says maintenance and repair costs are 6.4% lower than for the predecessor. For service contracts this is reflected in a considerable cost reduction. Lower costs for repairs and maintenance, its reasonable price positioning and expected high residual value mean the model change will lower service, leasing and long-term rental payments.
Tourer
Vito Tourer SELECT is distinguished by colourcoded bumpers and detachable body parts plus sports alloy wheels with 205/65 R 16 tyres. Inside, the passengers have two rows of sliding, deluxe seating in the saloon and black floor
46 | COACH & BUS WEEK MINIBUS | August 20, 2014 042_046_CBW1151_MINIBUS_Vito.indd 46
Tourer SELECT with removable split level shelf for loading for luggage carpet. The driver and front passenger benefit from a TEMPMATIC air conditioning system, a multifunction steering wheel, instrument cluster with pixel matrix display and enhanced information, rain/light sensor, convenience overhead control panel with fibre-optic cable, LED reading lamps, cockpit downlighter and spectacles compartment, as well as luxury seats for the driver and passengers with an ISOFIX child seat securing system for each passenger place.
Sliding door
All Vito models with seats in the back come with an active locking device for the sliding door as standard. It locks it in the end position and can only be released by pressing the door handle. It prevents the sliding door from inadvertently closing on a gradient, for example. All Vito Tourer vehicles are optionally available with an electrically actuated sliding door which is operated via switches on the centre console, the B-pillar or by a button on the radio remote control.
Investment in quality
The Vito is built at the Vitoria plant in Spain. The switch to production of the new model has seen an investment of 190m Euro in the facility. The investment guarantees Vito starts in production with a precision-made bodyshell, to extremely tight tolerances with narrow, even joints. ‘High solid’ metallic paint (also new) is said to be extremely scratch-resistant. The manufacturer believes it will assist in the vehicle retaining a presentable appearance and enhance residual values. n
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p47_CBW_1151 18/08/2014 16:09 Page 47
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August 20, 2014 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 47
REVIEWS › BOOKS
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Story behind the New Bus for London
There’s been no shortage of books on the New Routemaster of late, but what distinguishes Martin Curtis’ work is the unique access he’s been given since the project’s inception double-decker generally and Bristol in particular, he places the creation of the New Routemaster within a much wider context than most commentators. But what marks this book out is the unparalleled access Martin has been given to developments at every stage of the project. Transport for London Commissioner, Sir Peter Hendy CBE explains why in the foreward. He says: “When the project for the New Bus for London started, I asked my friend Martin Curtis to join us on the journey to record the creation of the new bus. Many enthusiasts prefer old to new, and were openly sceptical, even critical, of the intention. Martin, however, has taken a real
Bath Bus Company’s Martin Curtis is a well-known industry figure and has something of a reputation for being a tenacious busman. He’s also a prolific author. His latest work is quite clearly a labour of love – the inside story of the New Bus for London, which these days calls itself the New Routemaster. Martin makes no secret of his admiration for the classic AEC-PRV Routemaster designed more than half a century ago, or for that matter the passenger and operational aspects of a front-engined open platform bus that made it such an eminently suitable concept for operation in London. With an in depth historical knowledge of the development of the British
interest in the development of the new Routemaster, and has faithfully and accurately recoded the steps taken on the way to its creation.” If you’re interested in possible future variants of the bus, Martin provides an insight with impressions of a front and rear door vehicle, a long wheelbase bus with a vertical rear longitudinal engine and a short wheelbase one with a vertical rear transverse configuration. It’s always fascinating to speculate where this project may go, but the recent news that the New Routemaster’s instigator, London Mayor Boris Johnson is to seek selection as a Conservative candidate prior to next year’s general election may well mean
that the buses so far ordered will be the last or is Yorkshire to be their new domain? Time will tell, but whatever the outcome, the New Routemaster has left an indelible mark on the industry. Books written with insight and passion always make for good reading and this is no exception. New Bus For London, The Inside Story from Crecy Publishing is very reasonably priced at £19.95. Crecy Publishing Ltd, 1a Ringway Trading Estate, Shadowmoss Road, Manchester, M22 5LH. Tel: 0161 499 0024, Email: enquiries@crecy.co.uk, Website: www.crecy.co.uk
A pictorial tribute to Richards Brothers There were some wonderful vehicles operated such as a pair of Harrington-bodied Bedford SBOs, a rare Duple Midland Bedford J4Z1 and a Duple-bodied Bedford C5Z1 – never a particularly common type either. Welsh independents will always be associated with Duple Midland/ Willowbrook bus-bodied Bedford SB5s and Richards was no exception. One bus, new to Harper, Heath Hayes in 1972 and a rare recipient of NBC poppy red livery under Midland Red ownership, continued in service until 1994. It gave Richards 17 years. By no means are all the images just of vehicles. Tony Moyes was well known for his atmospheric views that placed vehicles in their locality and several have been included in this book. While most pictures are black and white, there are some in colour,
Number 33 in Venture Publishing’s Super Prestige series is Les Dickinson’s largely pictorial tribute to Richards Brothers of Cardigan and Newport. A brief history of the firm introduces the gallery and there’s a fleetlist at the end as well as details of vehicles taken over with other operators and those operated by other Cardigan firms in the early days. Otherwise the pictures tell the fascinating story of the buses and coaches operated by this well known family independent. Where better to start than with pictures from Marteine Richards’ own collection of him at a very tender young age in front of a Bedford WTB, only the third bus in his grandfather’s fleet, and then on the next page, watching attentively as attention is given to a Duple Vista-bodied Bedford OB. xxxxxxx
Black Velvet Travel ceases trading p6
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Bus Vannin safety campaign swings into action
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● ALSA buys 15 Setra S517HD coaches ● DB Regio orders 815 buses from MAN
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Scania Citywide decker for Berlin
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INTERNATIONAL NEWS
Ian Manning in Portugal
Tony contributing some of those as well. They include an image of MDE666, a Bedford OB bought new in 1950 for £1,860. It wasn’t sold after withdrawal and after standing idle for many years a new £60,000 body has
Venture Publications, 128 Pikes Lane, Glossop, Derbyshire, SK13 8EH. Tel: 01457 861508, Email: info@venturepublications.co.uk, Website: www.venturepublications. co.uk
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xxxxxxxx p18 Plans for 2015 UK Coach Awards p10
been manufactured and fitted in 2013 so that the coach can be chartered again for weddings and nostalgia trips. DAF and VDL products have been a preferred choice in recent times, but rare vehicles indeed are a pair of Temsa Avenues, one previously with First West Yorkshire, the other Arriva, Malta. Both are depicted. There’s even an image of the Enviro300 that was badly damaged by a storm in February this year. Les Dickinson’s book is priced £20.00.
What does Luton Dunstable have to offer? p44
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2003 (52) Iveco Daily 45c13 Irisbus
10 seats, PLS chairlift fitted to rear, front entry, full length tracking, all seats on quick release, white, bonded glass, COIF/PSV, tacho.
2002 (52) Mercedes 814 Vario Plaxton Beaver 2
2007 LDV Maxus 3.5T LWB
Fiat Ducato 160 Multijet
29 seats with lap & diagonal belts, automatic, 203,000km, MOT Aug 2015, PLS underslung chair lift.
7 seats, internal chairlift, full tracking, all seats on Unwin quick release, 1 owner and genuine low miles, side loading door, bonded windows.
17 seats, 80,000 miles from new, 1 owner, front and rear aircon, luggage racks, armrests, Bluetooth, 6 speed manual, COIF/PSV, tacho.
£3,995 + VAT
£11,950 + VAT
£6,495 + VAT
£11,495 + VAT
BNL Coaches 0208 363 8572/07811 848 548
BNL Coaches 0208 363 8572 or 07971 785390
BNL Coaches 0208 363 8572 /07811 848 548
BNL Coaches 0208 363 8572 or 07971 785390
New EVM Sprinter X-Clusive
Euro 6 Low Floor Sprinter
Mercedes Benz Sprinter 513 CDI
Mercedes Benz Sprinter
16 executive seats in leather+ driver, automatic, power door, coach back boot, in-dash and saloon A/C, panoramic windows, monitors and DVD.
22 mixed between seating/standing/wheelchair, sliding 120 cm entry door, multiple drop box combinations are available for luggage storage.
16 seats + driver, LWB, 6 speed manual, electric entry step, in-dash aircon, 3 year Mercedes Benz warranty, optional extras available.
6 speed manual gearbox, white, manual door, luggage racks with individual passenger service units, double rear doors, saloon air-con, parking sensors, 16 seats finished in moquette, 3 pt seat belts, saloon lighting, 138,800 miles.
POA
POA
£33,000 + VAT
£18,500 +VAT
EVM Direct – 0845 5205160
EVM Direct – 0845 5205160
EVM Direct – 0845 5205160
EVM Direct – 0845 5205160
2011 Bova Futura Classic FHD
2004 Bova Futura FHD
New Mercedes Sitcar Beluga III
1995 Volvo B10M Plaxton Premier 3200
12m, 49 seats, ZF auto, sat-nav, centre toilet, power continental door, A/C, 2 monitors, radio/PA, CD, DVD, on-board vacuum, Euro 4, MOT March 2015.
12.7 mtr, automatic gearbox, 53/55/57 seats, demountable toilet, radio P/A, wired for TV and DVD, new air conditioning units fitted, LEZ compliant, MOT June 2015.
Auto, Telma retarder, rear air suspension, 29 seats with 3 point belts, luggage compartment & side lockers, double glazing, A/C, radio/PA & CD player.
53 seats, power door, radio, P.A, ZF 6 speed manual gearbox plus, new MOT.
£POA
£POA
£POA
£POA
Moseley Distributors Ltd Tel: 01236 750501
Moseley Distributors Ltd Tel: 01236 750501
Moseley Distributors Ltd Tel: 01236 750501
Moseley Distributors Ltd Tel: 01236 750501
50 | COACH & BUS WEEK | August 20, 2014
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p51_CBW_1151 18/08/2014 14:47 Page 51
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VEHICLES
Volvo B10M
Volvo B10M
Volvo B10M
Volvo B7R
55 seats, two available. £POA
53 seats, several M reg coaches available. £POA
57 seats. £POA
55 seats. £POA
Howard Snaith - 01830 520609 howardsnaith@btconnect.com
Howard Snaith - 01830 520609 howardsnaith@btconnect.com
Howard Snaith - 01830 520609 howardsnaith@btconnect.com
Howard Snaith - 01830 520609 howardsnaith@btconnect.com
2009 Mercedes 0816 Sitcar Beluga 2
2000 Mercedes Sprinter Treka Coachbuilt
2002 Scania Irizar K114
2008 Alexander Dennis Enviro 200
25 leather trimmed seats with lap belts, courier seat, power plug door, air con, audio & DVD, fridge, drivers door, drivers electric window, reverse camera, digital tacho, Telma retarder. POA
16 seats with 3 point belts, white, power door front entry, external automatic tail lift, tracking, 12 months MOT. Surplus to requirements.
49 exec, W.C., A.C., 7 speed C-Shift, MOT 21/5/15, excellent condition.
Sensible offers considered
NOW £37,000
Tel: 01823 653000 Moseley in the South
Stanley Travel 01207 237424 / 07768 126136
Kingdoms Tours Ltd 01884 252646 / 07702 626542
10.8m, 37 seats, one owner, FSH. £47,000 + VAT Southdown PSV 01342 711840 email: bussales@southdownpsv.co.uk www.southdownpsv.co.uk
Luxury VW Crafter
2004 Volvo B12M VanHool
2003 Volvo BR7 Plaxton Profile
2007, 16 seats, A/C, DVD, microphone, 135,000 miles, 7 months MOT, excellent condition.
£21,000
Slick Rides – 07823 770978
2002 Mercedes Sprinter 413 CDI
16 seats with 3 point belts, white, panoramic double glazed glass, external automatic tail lift, tracking, 12 months MOT. Surplus to requirements.
53 seats, w/c, air con, Webasto, water boiler, 3 point belts, double glazed, leather headrests, DVD player, alloys, in white, taxed and tested, very good condition.
57 seats, forced air, ZF automatic, lap belts, rear cameras inside and out, taxed and tested, in white.
2006 Volvo B12M
£46,999 + VAT
£36,999 + VAT
51/53 seat executive, WC, AC, auto, Berkoff LEZ, MOT 12/11/14, excellent condition. NOW £65,000
Andy Francis, KB Coaches 07939 645492 or 01453 825774
Andy Francis, KB Coaches 07939 645492 or 01453 825774
01884 252646 / 07702 626542 Kingdoms Tours Ltd
2003 (53) Volvo B12M
2004 LDV Convoy
2000 Dennis Dart Plaxton Pointer
Luxury 16 seat front entry coach, power door all working well, extended rear, large boot separate from passengers, forced air, wood dash kit, very nice Exel conversion, COIF, 11 months PSV MOT, long tax.
Sensible offers considered
51/53 seat executive, WC, AC, Berkoff, LEZ, MOT 12/11/14, excellent condition. NOW £44,000 – MAY CONSIDER PX
£4,999 + VAT
37 seats with seat belts, good working condition for age, MOT June 2015, in daily use. £4,500 +VAT ono
Stanley Travel 01207 237424 / 07768 126136
01884 252646 / 07702 626542 Kingdoms Tours Ltd
01404 47502/07790 966667 parnell-coaches@supanet.com
Travelsure 01668 219291 / 07919 215905
1999 Volvo B10M Berkhof Axial
2008 Mercedes Benz Sprinter 515 CDI
Brand New Wrightbus Streetlite
2002 Dennis Dart Caetano Nimbus SLF
40 seats, manual, air con, coffee machine, servery, courier seat, power door, radio/CD/PA, seat belts, toilet, TV monitor, LEZ compliant.
10 luxury leather seats with 3 point belts, auto, air con, tachograph, LEZ compliant, TV monitor, tinted windows, armrests, curtains.
40 seats, automatic, air con, LED front, side and rear destination, front manual ramp, DDA compliant, LEZ compliant.
30 seats, automatic, manual front, side and rear destination, electric ramp, CCTV cameras and recorders, assault screen.
£25,000
£19,500
£POA
£POA
Ventura Sales 01342 835206
Ventura Sales 01342 835206
Ventura Sales 01342 835206
Ventura Sales 01342 835206
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August 20, 2014 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 51
p52_CBW_1151 18/08/2014 14:48 Page 52
Call Gemma Ireland Tel: 01733 293247 E: gemma.ireland@coachandbusweek.com
VEHICLES 1996 Scania Irizar Century
1994 Volvo B10M Plaxton Premier 350
1999 Volvo B7R Plaxton Prima
Mercedes 814 Vario Cheetah
67/70 seats, luggage racks, curtains, 3 point belts, reading lights, power door, double glazing, ZF automatic gearbox, DVD monitor, tinted windows, Telma Retarda, air conditioning, underfloor lockers.
49 reclining coach seats, lap retractable belts, N/S/R floor mounted toilet, ZF auto, tachograph, power door, aisle carpet, radio/CD, air con, newly retrimmed seats, curtains, new repaint in white, double glazed.
70 re-trimmed coach seats, 3 point seat belts, luggage racks, forced air ventilation, reading lights, 6 speed manual, Telma retarda, 174,969 kms, radio/ cassette, excellent condition.
33 seats with 3 point belts, forced air, wood dash, manual, taxed with long PSV MOT, radio/PA system, large boot, tidy coach, 1 previous keeper.
£17,500 + VAT
CHOICE OF 2 – £9,000 + VAT
£25,000 + VAT
Drew Wilson Coach Sales 0141 248 5524
Drew Wilson Coach Sales 0141 248 5524
Drew Wilson Coach Sales 0141 248 5524
01404 47502/07790 966667 parnell-coaches@supanet.com
2006 (06) Mercedes Sprinter 413 CDI
2000/2001 X/Y Reg Volvo B7TL’S
2006 BMC Falcon
2001 Y Reg Tridents
80 seats, Voith gearboxes, Euro 2 engines with traps, or full Euro 3 with traps, Plaxton President bodies, can be DDA with 78 seats. Why pay more for less. FROM £20,000 + VAT
40 seats, low floor bus, Cummins engine, MOT January 2015, ideal vehicle for school bus conversion, in daily use. £11,950 +VAT ono
Lowered front entry, extended rear, one owner from new, huge boot separate from passengers,12 months MOT, forced air, wood dash, electric windows and mirrors, COIF, below average mileage.
£14,750 + VAT – WILL P/X
01404 47502/07790 966667 parnell-coaches@supanet.com
Cummins C series engines, Voith gearboxes, Plaxton President bodies, 78 seats. Why pay more for less. FROM £18,000 + VAT
EnsignBus 01708 865656
Travelsure 01668 219291 / 07919 215905
New EVM Sprinter Classic
New EVM Sprinter Classic
New EVM Sprinter Avantgarde
22 seats + driver, automatic, power door, double rear doors, privacy glass, in-dash and saloon A/C, saloon heater, 3 stage entry step, luggage racks.
16 seats + driver, automatic, hinged entry door, double rear doors, in-dash and saloon A/C, saloon heater, privacy glazing, PA system.
6 speed manual gearbox, Plug type power door, double rear doors, drop boot, in-dash A/C, saloon A/C, 19 Club Class seats in moquette, 3 point belts, panoramic double glazing, body styling.
2009 Iveco Daily
16 moquette seats with 3 point belts, white, manual, single panoramic privacy glazing, forced air, wheelchair tracking, right hand emergency door, reading lights and air vents, 90,000 miles, very clean.
£22,999 – POSSIBLE P/X
EnsignBus 01708 865656
£18,000 + VAT
POA
POA
£POA
EVM Direct – 01293 852025
EVM Direct – 0845 5205160
EVM Direct – 0845 5205160
EVM Direct – 0845 5205160
1998 Volvo Caetano Salvador
2007 Mercedes Sprinter 515 CDI
2012 Ford Transit ELWB
2008 Iveco Beulas Cygnus
49 reclining seat with seat belts, mid toilet, centre door, monitor + DVD, radio + cassette, courier seat, tax and tested, fitted with air con but needs belts and re-gas.
17 seats, silver metallic, 6 speed manual, tacho, radio/CD player, electric front windows, electric power plug door, luggage racks, reading lights, drop well boot, COIF/PSV.
17 seats, medium roof, white, 6 speed manual, ABS, PAS, radio/CD, tacho, electric front windows, M2 seats with all age lap diagonal belts, grab rails to access doors, PSV.
£14,500 + VAT o.n.o.
£26,995
£16,495
49/51 rec seats, 3 point belts, courier seat, auto, power plug & continental doors, air con, double glazing, audio & DVD, reverse camera, powered luggage lockers, floor mounted toilet, low mileage. POA
01833 660471 / 07730 486708 paul.watson@btconnect.com
Autoservice Pontypool Ltd 01495 757111
Autoservice Pontypool Ltd 01495 757111
Tel: 01823 653000 Moseley in the South
2007 Volvo B12B’s
1997 Volvo B12R VanHool Astrobel
2004 Mercedes OC500 18.36 Touro
Iveco Daily
Auto, 71 reclining seats, twin courier seat, driver & crew doors, centre powered entrance, double glazing, air con, audio & DVD, servery with boiler & fridge, toilet, n/s & o/s doors to luggage compartment.
49 reclining seats with armrests, seat back tables, & footrests, courier seat, Plug entrance door, double glazing, air con, CD & DVD, drinks machine & fridge; centre sunken toilet, continental exit, digital tachograph, manual transmission, retarder.
Euro 5, automatic, 12m, front wheelchair lift, Hanover LED’s, converted and certified with 70 seats and 3 point belts, only 3 available. £80,000 EACH
EnsignBus 01708 865656 52 | COACH & BUS WEEK | August 20, 2014
POA
POA
8 passengers plus driver (COIF for 14 seats), front entrance with lowered step, 3 point seat belts, large tinted panoramic windows, MOT Sept, tax Oct 2014. MUST GO - BEST OFFER OVER £3,500 incl VAT
Tel: 01823 653000 Moseley in the South
Tel: 01823 653000 Moseley in the South
Tel: 0121 788 8848 Marsden PTS Ltd www.coachandbusweek.com
p53_CBW_1151 18/08/2014 14:48 Page 53
www.coachandbusmarket.com 2000 MAN VanHool EOS 90
48 reclining seats plus courier, WC/washroom, double glazed windows, forced-air ventilation, radio/CD and PA system, clean condition, MOT Jan, 640,000 kms.
VEHICLES Due to fleet replacement, we have the following vehicles for sale:
Mercedes Benz UNVI Touring
Volvo B12B Plaxton Paragon - I-Shift Gearbox 2007 (Euro IV): 5 x 49/53 seats £88,000 + VAT 2008 (Euro V): 6 x 49/53 seats £99,000 + VAT
All are well maintained, low mileage examples (approximately 62,000km per annum) with reclining seats, 3 point seat belts, air conditioning and demountable toilet with hot/cold water boiler and fridge (unused additional seats to increase seating to 53 included in price). Owned by us from new and used on our own holiday programme. All over cream. Price includes new MOT. Sorry no part exchange facilities!
Atego chassis, air suspension, 41 Esteban Ergos seats with 3 pt belts, in Holdsworth moquette, courier seat, air con, double glazed, radio/CD/PA, large luggage capacity, new test.
To view contact Neil McMurdy - Alfa Travel on 01257 248003 (Direct Line)
£21,500
£POA
Coachtraders - 01501 744000
Coachtraders - 01501 744000
2001 MAN Neoplan
2006 Scania Irizar Century
1995 Scania K113 VanHool Alizee
Mercedes Benz UNVI Touring
Auto, one year’s MOT, 49 seats: new 70 Cogent seats on order and the conversion will be carried out shortly, so pick your own trim.
Converted this year to 70 seater using Cogent seats with 3 point belts, tea machine, TV/DVD.
Atego chassis, air suspension, 37 Esteban Ergos seats in moquette, courier seat, AAAirbus air con, double glazed, fridge, radio/CD/PA, DVD & monitor, MOT April 2015.
Contact Gary – 07930 377051
£90,000 + VAT Milligans Coach Travel 01290 550365
£17,000 Milligans Coach Travel 01290 550365
Coachtraders - 01501 744000
1995 Dennis Javelin
1999 Plaxton Excalibur
2002 Volvo B7R Plaxton
Mercedes Benz Vario 814
Wadham Stringer Vanguard 3 body, 70 seats with three point belts, 6 speed manual, tacho, used daily, LEZ compliant, MOT Aug 2015. £9,995 + VAT
53 seats with three point belts, automatic, air con, large rear luggage space, tachograph, used daily, LEZ compliant, MOT Jan 2015. £12,995 + VAT
53 seats plus courier, automatic, A/C, used only on tour work, removable vinyls, seat belts, available with new test. £39,000 Call Anthony Kelly
28 seats with 3pt belts, bonded glass, luggage racks with mahogany effect edges, forced air, reading lights and adjustable air vents, coach style rear with deep drop boot, KVC body styling kit, test March 2015.
Chalkwell Coach Hire 01795 423982 andy.bates@chalkwell.co.uk
Chalkwell Coach Hire 01795 423982 andy.bates@chalkwell.co.uk
PAB Tours – 0113 320 0780 ant@pabtours.com
Coachtraders - 01501 744000
2008 58 reg Renault Master LM39 DCI 100
2006 56 reg Mercedes Sprinter 311 CDI
2006 56 reg Ford Transit 100
2005 55 reg LDV Convoy
A very well presented minibus in standard layout. The interior is easy to keep clean with wipe down hard wearing surfaces. 16 passenger seats, comes with COIF and digital tacho. £7,995 + VAT
A very clean and tidy 16 passenger seat vehicle that has had only one owner as a minicoach. Features front entry, DVD playback system, luggage racks with blown air and reading lights. £18,495 + VAT
Direct from the MOD, comprehensive mechanical history, excellent condition,16 full size passenger seats with 3 point seat belts. Comes complete with COIF. Digital tacho can be fitted at cost. £8,495 + VAT – CHOICE OF 2
A low mileage and very clean 2005 wheelchair accessible minibus. Underfloor automatic tail lift, 12 passenger seats, electric front full height power door for entry, one council operator. £3,995 + VAT
UK Minicoaches – 01902 631507 sales@ukminicoaches.co.uk
UK Minicoaches – 01902 631507 sales@ukminicoaches.co.uk
UK Minicoaches – 01902 631507 sales@ukminicoaches.co.uk
UK Minicoaches – 01902 631507 sales@ukminicoaches.co.uk
1993 Volvo B10M Plaxton Premier
2002 Scania VanHool K124
2003 Mercedes Benz Setra
1988 DAF MB230 Plaxton
12 months MOT & tax, full tank of fuel, one owner driver for the last 5 years, 49 seater, toilet, aircon, drivers bunk, alloy wheels, just refurbished, 2 new 22in Samsung LED monitors, black-out windows, TV tuner, DVD system all fitted 8 months ago, good mpg, 3 new air bags, new belts, hoses and interior LED lights just fitted, 600,000km, based in Glasgow.
£25,000 + VAT
£POA
£22,000
49 seat with belts, 2 monitors, DVD, centre toilet, centre power door, cool box + boiler, leather headrests inserts, seat back tables, foot rests, good tyres, 6 speed ZF, LEZ box, tax and test ready to work.
49 seats, automatic, good condition for year, removable vinyls, choice of 3, only one remaining. £8,950
49 exec, W.C., A.C., 7 speed C-Shift, MOT 30/9/14, excellent condition.
NOW £39,000
£40,000 + VAT o.n.o.
53 seats, automatic, very good condition for year, currently in dry storage, additional vehicle also available. £2,750
0113 320 0780/0035 386 8138165 Anthony ant@pabtours.com
Kingdoms Tours Ltd 01884 252646 / 07702 626542
01833 660471 / 07730 486708 paul.watson@btconnect.com
PAB Tours – 0113 320 0780 ant@pabtours.com
www.coachandbusweek.com
August 20, 2014 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 53
p54_CBW_1151 18/08/2014 16:11 Page 54
Call Gemma Ireland Tel: 01733 293247 E: gemma.ireland@coachandbusweek.com
VEHICLES
2002 52 reg Volvo B12B Jonckheere Mistral 50
2009 Iveco Beulas
7HO
ZF auto, 53 seats, air-con, monitor, radio, fridge, alloy wheels, RPC/LEZ compliant, MOT February 2015, taxed Sept 2014, good condition.
£28,000 + VAT
55 seats on 2 axles, LEZ Compliant, 12.7m, 1 owner since new, full exec, MOT March 2015, in daily use, choice of 2. £78,500 +VAT ono
Diamond Coaches 01243 870010 / 07711 868976
Travelsure 01668 219291 / 07919 215905
1998 Mercedes Sprinter
2004 Iveco Beulas
15 seats, front entry, Mellor conversion, MOT 16/5/14, very good condition, with tail lift.
£ 3,700
1998 Iveco 40 / 10 15 seats, front entry, MOT 22/8/14, very good condition.
£ 2,500
1995 Iveco 49 / 10 19 seats, front entry, power door, MOT 13/1/15, very good condition.
£ 3,000 Kingdoms Tours Ltd
Auto, 51 seat executive coach, WC, DVD, A/C, drinks boiler, fridge, etc, in exceptional condition for age, MOT July 2014.
£34,500 ono + VAT
01884 252646 / 07702 626542
Tel 01249 742000/07717 768315
1999 Volvo B10M
2006 Transit Tourneo
1999/2000/2001 V/Y Reg Dennis Tridents
2007 Toyota Optimo Caetano
9 seater, tax till Jan, will have new MOT, 190,000 miles, runs well, front and rear air-con, tow bar. £3,500 + VAT
Cummins/Voith, LEZ compliant with traps to Euro 4, CCTV, Alexander ALX400 bodies, DDA compliant or upseated to 80 seats. Why pay more for less. FROM £18,000 + VAT
26 reclining seats, 3 point seat belts, 6 speed manual, forced air vents, power door, luggage racks, CD player, MOT Sept 2015.
£26,500
Tel: 01483 561103
EnsignBus 01708 865656
Lakeside Coaches - 01691 622761
ahalliday@safeguardcoaches.co.uk
2006 56 plate ADL Enviro School Bus
Noge Catalan
2008 Optare Versa 10.4m
Hailstone Travel Ltd 0845 388 3848
2007 Optare Solo SE 7.8m
49 seats, low mileage for age, long MOT, full service history, inspection facilities available.
£17,500
£30,000 + VAT
£35,000 + VAT
53 belted recliners with footrests and seat back tables, ZF Astronic Auto, recent MOT, LEZ compliant, DVD + 2 screens, air-con, dashbroad fridge, WC, water boiler, Euroliner wheel trims. Choice of 2 similar vehicles.
Henderson Travel 01698 713007 or 07803 002603
Henderson Travel 01698 713007 or 07803 002603
Centaur Coaches 01322 625370
38 seats, free 12 months Driveline warranty. £42,500 + VAT – CHOICE Southdown PSV 01342 711840 email: bussales@southdownpsv.co.uk www.southdownpsv.co.uk
2006 Volvo B12M Plaxton
2000 DAF VanHool
2007 VW Crafter CR50
2007 Renault Master LH39
13 seats, Kusters conversion, low, floor, 6 speed manual, ABS brakes, PAS, radio/CD, tacho, double opening power doors, tracking for 3 wheelchairs, 4 fold-away seats, M2 passengers seats with lap belts, fold out floor ramp.
17 seats, Tawe conversion, 6 speed manual, ABS brakes, PAS, radio/CD, tacho, electric windows, front lowered entrance step, M2 leather seats with lap belts, forced air, luggage racks with reading lights, front & rear DVD, COIF/PSV.
27 seats, Mercedes engine, CCTV, Hanover destination.
57 belted seats, Cummins engine, CCTV.
53 reclining seats, 3 point belts, air con, WC, TV etc, PLS lift, tracking for 4 wheelchairs, MOT Oct, this coach can be painted in to your livery.
£87,500 + VAT o.n.o.
Tel Adrian – 07717 768315 54 | COACH & BUS WEEK | August 20, 2014
Automatic, 55 seats with lap seat belts, air con, continental doors, 6 months MOT, good clean, reliable coach. £40,000 + VAT
Vale Travel - 01296 484348 or 07850 806058
£80,000
£15,995
£12,995
Autoservice Pontypool Ltd 01495 757111
Autoservice Pontypool Ltd 01495 757111 www.coachandbusweek.com
p55_CBW_1151 18/08/2014 16:11 Page 55
www.coachandbusmarket.com
VEHICLES Ford Transit 3.5 Ton
Ford Transit 115PS
Ford Tourneo GLX
MANUAL, 70 SEATS, 3 POINT BELTS, SCHOOL BUS YELLOW, NEW MOT JULY 2015, TAXED, NO STEAMED WINDOWS, NEW FUEL TANKS, NEW SPRINGS, ALL SEATS IN GOOD CONDITION. LOSS OF CONTRACT FORCES SALE NOW £9,950 + VAT ONO
15 seats, dual passenger seat, COIF, remote central locking, LEZ compliant, side loading door.
17 seats, side loading door, 5 speed gearbox, anti-lock brakes, power assisted steering, twin rear wheels, driver’s airbag, low miles.
9 seats, CD player, dual passenger seat, fully air-conditioned, heated windscreen, digital tachograph, remote central locking.
CALL GEORGE ON 01403 786303 / 07836 775069
£5,995
£7,495
£7,495
M4 Minibuses - 01249 247424
M4 Minibuses - 01249 247424
M4 Minibuses - 01249 247424
Ford Transit 430 115PS
2004, Dennis Dart
2006 Optare Solo 8.8m
1996 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 709D
1991 LEYLAND TIGER PLAXTON DUPLE
High roof, 4100kgs, radio/CD player, digital tachograph, LEZ compliant, 6 speed gearbox.
£25,000 + VAT
V5C certificate, V10 form, PSV Vehicle Test Certificate from 2010 to 2013, COIF and the original PSVC 4 form. Recent MOT and vehicle excise duty valid until June of 2015.
Buzzlines Travel - 01303 261870
Henderson Travel 01698 713007 or 07803 002603
Elliot Massey - 07968 069423
2002 Iveco Beaulas
1996 Caetano Optimo
28 seats + 19 standees, 9 metre service bus, MOT October 2014.
£10,495
£16,950 + VAT
M4 Minibuses - 01249 247424
2002 Bova Futura DAF engine, air conditioned, twin monitors, DVD, toilet, boiler, fridge, Eminox-LEZ, 49 seats, green cloth trim, manual gearbox, ready to go, MOT March 2015.
28 seats, Cummins engine, Look CCTV, Hanover destination.
£1,350
2003 Volvo B12M Jonckheere Euro 3
Automatic gearbox, air conditioned,
• 18 seats
twin monitors, DVD, toilet, boiler, fridge,
• MOT January 2015
49 seats, Euro 3, MOT March 15.
• Good runner
£40,000 + VAT
£25,000 + VAT
£3,500 + VAT
L.J. Edwards Coach Hire 07974 369570 / 01323 440622
L.J. Edwards Coach Hire 07974 369570 / 01323 440622
L.J. Edwards Coach Hire 07974 369570 / 01323 440622
Setra 315
DAF SB3000 Plaxton Premier 320
2007 Scania PB
Mercedes 814 Beaver 2
48 x 3 point belted seats + crew, air con, saloon mounted WC, rear continental door, MOT November 2014. £POA – NO REASONABLE OFFER REFUSED
Nigel McCree - 01509 502695
6 speed manual, 49 seater executive, MOT April 2015, LEZ, Eminox system. £32,000
ZF automatic gearbox, 53 seats, lap belts, double glazed, in-swing power door, seats have dootrests, curtains, ZF intarder. £15,000
49 seater executive, MOT April 2015, this vehicle has been owned by us from new. £95,000
31 seats, 3 point belts, new MOT, choice of 2. £POA
Williams Coaches 01874 622223
Williams Coaches 01874 622223
Williams Coaches 01874 622223
Williams Coaches 01874 622223
1996 Volvo Olympian
1996 Volvo Olympian
1995 Volvo Sleeper Coach
1998 Sleeper Coach
CAT engine, Euro 4, LEZ compliant, 75 retrimmed seats, good condition, MOT March 2015.
Cummins engine, 75 coach seats, good condition, MOT Feb 2015.
14 bunks, ZF auto, static A/C heating, 240v, TV’s, DVD, Playstation, toilet, towbar, good condition, MOT June 2015.
13 bunks, 14 seats, static A/C heating, 240v, TV’s, DVD, Playstation, toilet, towbar, good condition, MOT Feb 2015.
£7,500 + VAT
£5,500 + VAT
£19,995 + VAT
£15,000 + VAT
Telephone: 01487 843333 david@sunfunholidays.co.uk
Telephone: 01487 843333 david@sunfunholidays.co.uk
Telephone: 01487 843333 david@sunfunholidays.co.uk
Telephone: 01487 843333 david@sunfunholidays.co.uk
www.coachandbusweek.com
August 20, 2014 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 55
p56_CBW_1151 18/08/2014 16:12 Page 56
Call Gemma Ireland Tel: 01733 293247 E: gemma.ireland@coachandbusweek.com
VEHICLES 1994 Scania Irizar Century K113
1997 Scania Irizar Century K113
53 seats, 7 speed comfort shift, MOT 20/04/2015, private plate – excellent condition.
53 seats, 7 speed comfort shift, MOT 20/04/2015, owned by us from new – full service history, excellent condition.
2003 Scania K124PB
49 seat executive coach + courier seats, MOT 05/15, Eminox system fitted Euro 4, DVD, PA system, radio, air conditioning, private plate – excellent tour motor.
2 x 1999 Scania L94 Irizar
MOT May 2015 & March 2015, 49 seats with belts and toilet, ZF automatic. These coaches are in good condition.
£8,000 + VAT
£12,000 + VAT
POA
£16,500 + VAT ono
Peter Smith on 07768648514 or email pete@pccoaches.co.uk
Peter Smith on 07768648514 or email pete@pccoaches.co.uk
Peter Smith on 07768648514 or email pete@pccoaches.co.uk !
E&M Horsburgh Brian Martin on 01506 433251
2001 Iveco Beulas Elmundo
2007 (07) LDV Maxus
2007 (57) LDV Maxus
16 seater minibus, MOT, COIF, tacho, immaculate condition, ready to work.
16 seater minibus, MOT, COIF, tacho, immaculate condition, ready to work.
48 seats + courier, radio/CD & DVD, ZF auto box, toilet, full servery at rear, MOT & LEZ until Feb 2015. New vehicle forces reluctant sale.
!
2011 Mercedes ! ! ! Sprinter 516 CDI
!
£ offers invited
£ offers invited
£ offers invited
Stanford coach works, 16 reclining seats, air conditioned, automatic gearbox, large boot,! MOT June 15.
Richard Taylor Travel 01462 442409
Richard Taylor Travel 01462 442409
Richard Taylor Travel 01462 442409
Buzzlines Travel - 01303 261870 ! !
2005 05 PLATE FORD TRANSIT XLWB HIGH ROOF 17 SEAT MINIBUS
! ! ! ! 2004 !54 PLATE ! ! MERCEDES SPRINTER 413CDI 17! SEAT WELFARE MINIBUS
2003 53 PLATE IVECO DAILY IRIS 40c13
2008 58 VOLKSWAGEN TRANSPORTER T5 15 SEAT WELFARE BUS
2
! !
! !+ VAT £29,500 !
!
! ! !
! ! !!
Analogue tachograph, certificate of initial fitness, PSV, 2.8 turbo diesel, 6 speed manual gearbox, white, panoramic glass, front entry door, Ratcliffe underfloor rear wheelchair lift, tracking for upto 6 wheelchairs, LEZ compliant, 166,000 kilometers 103,000 miles, excellent condition, supplied with 12 months PSV or MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 1 months nationwide parts and labour warranty .
Bluebird Tucana conversion, 2.5 TDi, automatic gearbox, COIF, digital tachograph, gross vehicle weight of 4100 kgs so can be driven without a D1 licence, fold out rear wheelchair ramp, tracking for up to 5 wheelchairs, electric front entry doors with fold out wheelchair ramp, reversing camera, LEZ compliant, 69,000 miles, excellent condition, supplied with 12 months PSV or MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Sheme standards, 3 months nationwide parts and labour.
2.4 115ps turbo diesel blue, Access underfloor rear wheelchair lift, tracking for up to 5 wheelchairs, COIF, analogue tachograph, PSV, power assisted steering, remote central locking, overhead cab, luggage tray, side loading door, Access step, 215,000 kilometers/ 134,000 miles, excellent condition, supplied with 12 months PSV or MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 3 months nationwide parts and labour warranty.
!
2200 CDI turbo diesel 130ps, 6 speed Sprintshift automatic gearbox, white, UV Modular conversion, Ratcliffe underfloor rear wheelchair lift, fully tracked, tracking for upto 6 wheelchairs, COIF, PSV, LEZ compliant, CD player, 82,000 miles, excellent condition, supplied with 12 months PSV or MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 3 months nationwide parts and labour warranty.
£6,995 + VAT
£12,495 + VAT
£7,995 + VAT
£10,995 + VAT
Ben Weaver Commercials 0114 275 7076
Ben Weaver Commercials 0114 275 7076
Ben Weaver Commercials 0114 275 7076
Ben Weaver Commercials 0114 275 7076
2010 Ford Transit T280 Trend
2010 Ford Transit
9/11 passenger seats, 35,912 miles, SLD with cassette step, external PLS fully automatic tailift, full electric pack, totally showroom condition inside and out.
56 | COACH & BUS WEEK | August 20, 2014
8 high back passenger seats, 19,243 miles, lots of Unwin tracking, internal Braun fully automatic tailift, SLD with cassette step, COIF’d, PSV.
£13,995 + VAT
£18,995 + VAT
Heatons Motor Co 01942 864222
Heatons Motor Co 01942 864222
Renault Master
2009 (58) Mercedes Sprinter
8 high back passenger seats, 75,901 miles, lots of Unwin tracking, SLD with electric side step, external fully automatic cassette tailift.
34,000 miles, PSV, choice of 9 – just arrived, in totally immaculate condition, genuine ultra low mileage.
£6,995 + VAT
£POA
Heatons Motor Co 01942 864222
Heatons Motor Co 01942 864222 www.coachandbusweek.com
p57_CBW_1151 18/08/2014 16:14 Page 1
698896-1151-Ensign_Layout 1 18/08/2014 14:29 Page 1
Ensig
DOUBLE DECK E 2000/2001 X/Y REG VOLVO B7TL’s
80 seats, Voith gearboxes, Euro 2 engines with traps, or full Euro 3 with traps, Plaxton President bodies, can be DDA with 78 seats. From £18,000
LEZ COMPLIANT
Cummins/Voith, LEZ compliant with traps to Euro 4, CCTV, Alexander ALX400 bodies, DDA compliant or upseated to 80 seats. From £17,000
1999 V REG DENNIS TRIDENTS
2002/3 52 PLATE DENNIS DARTS
1998 R REG VOLVO OLYMPIANS
Cummins ISB Euro 3 engines, Allison gearboxes, 10.7m, 37 seats.
Volvo Euro 2 engines, ZF gearboxes, 78 seats, new MOT.
2002 02 PLATE DENNIS TRIDENTS
Mercedes engine, 31 seats, DDA compliant, Hanover LED’s.
2002 OPTARE SOLO M920
Cummins ISC Euro 3 engines, Plaxton bodies, DDA and LEZ compliant, 78 seats.
2001 SUPER POINTER DARTS
Mercedes engine, Euro 4, 26 seats, Mobitech LED’s, DDA.
2009 OPTARE SOLO M850
2001 Super Pointer Darts, Allison gearboxes, 11.3m, 41 seats.
70 SEATS
2007 VOLVO B12B’s
Euro 5, automatic, 12m, front wheelchair lift, Hanover LED’s, converted and certified with 70 seats and 3 point belts. £80,000 each Only 3 available.
8.9m, 26 seats plus 3 tip-ups, long MOT’s.
2007 ENVIRO 200’s
2009 OPTARE SOLO M920’s
33 seats, Mercedes engines, Mobitech LED’s, long MOT’s.
OPEN TOP BUSES A SPECIALITY - B
Juliette Close, Purfleet Industrial Pa Telephone 01708 865656 Fax: 01708 86 Visit our website for current sto
698896-1151-Ensign_Layout 1 18/08/2014 14:29 Page 2
nbus
K ER SPECIALIST Cummins Euro 4 engine, 38 seats, Mobitec LED’s, 11.1m long.
2008 OPTARE VERSA
2001 Y REG TRIDENTS Cummins C series engines, Voith gearboxes, Plaxton President bodies, 78 seats.
2004 54 PLATE DENNIS DART MPD Cummins ISB Euro 3 engine, 8.8m, 29 seats.
2010 OPTARE SOLO SLIMLINE
Cummins Euro 5 engine, 28 seats, Mobitec LED’s. 8.8m long slimline, long MOT.
8.9m, 29 seats, Mobitech LED’s, Euro 5.
2010 ENVIRO 200’s
2001/2002 DENNIS TRIDENTS
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.
£18,000 + VAT
2003 03 PLATE DENNIS TRIDENTS
Cummins ISC Euro 3 engines, DDA and LEZ compliant, 2 door 62 seats or can be single doored and upseated.
2000 X REG VOLVO B7TL’s
Euro 2, LEZ compliant, Plaxton President , CCTV, dual door 62 seats or single door 74 seats. £9,000 + VAT
Volvo Euro 2 engines, ZF gearboxes, Alexander ALX300 bodies, 44 seats, DDA compliant and certified.
1998 VOLVO B10BLE’s
89 seats, air-con, toilet, MAN engine, ZF gearbox.
2005 NEOPLAN SKYLINER
1996 VOLVO B10MA ARTICULATED COACHES ZF automatics, 71 seats.
2009 WRIGHTS HYBRIDS
65 seats, dual door, can be converted to single door, latest Wrights hybrid drive, brand new battery pack, cooling pack, and Cummins Euro 5 engine, body upgraded to Gemini 2, over £100k spent on upgrade. COMPETITIVELY PRICED
- BRITAIN’S BIGGEST BUS DEALERS Park, Purfleet, Essex, RM15 4YF 8 864340 e-mail: sales@ensignbus.com t stock at www.ensignbus.com
698956-1147-Pembridge 21/07/2014 16:57 Page 1
FORD TRANSIT MINIBUSES
OTHER MAKES
(12) 2012 Ford Transit 17 seat minibus 135ps air-con, tacho, COIF/PSV, 4,500 miles only £15,995
(56) 2006 Peugeot Boxer 3.5t on 17 seat minibus 2.8 diesel, high back seats with three point belts, 33,000 miles £8,995
(12) 2012 Ford Transit 9 seat Shuttle twin side loading doors 18000 miles £12,995
Mercedes Sprinter 511 cdi 17 seat minibus, 65,000 miles with FSH, COIF/PSV £11,995
OLD
(10) 2010 Ford Transit 17 seat minibus 2.4 diesel, six speed gearbox, tacho, 55,000 km £13,495
S
(58) 2008 Ford Transit 17 seat minibus 2.4 diesel with six speed gearbox, 16,000 miles FSH £10,495
(56) 2006 Ford Transit 17 seat minibus, high back seats with three point belts, COIF/PSV £7,995 (02) 2002 Ford Transit 2.4 diesel 3.5 ton, automatic gearbox, 8 seats, inboard Ricon wheelchair lift, rear heating, tracking to take 3 wheelchairs, overhead lockers £5,995
OTHER MAKES
WHEELCHAIR ACCESS (62) 2013 Citroen Berlingo Automatic, 8,000 miles only, low floor, lightweight ramp, electric reals, high spec £12,850
(13) 2013 Renault Trafic LL29 Sport 9 seat, sat-nav, Bluetooth, six speed, 29,831 miles £16,950 (60) 2010 Renault Master 3.5ton 9 seat 2.3 diesel six speed, sat-nav, Bluetooth, tachograph, fully tracked floor, inboard lightweight ramp, 40,000 miles £15,995 (58) 2008 Renault Master MWB 2.5TD 6 speed, tracking for two wheelchairs, in board lift, aircon, rear heating, low entrance step, 62,000 miles, one owner £9,995
New Peugeot Boxer 16 seat 3.5 ton and 17 seat w/chair accessible minibuses, 2.2 diesel 120ps, six speed gearbox LEZ COMPLIANT From £24,750 + VAT
(07) 2007 Fiat Doblo 1.4 petrol, 11,500 miles only, five speed manual, three seats plus wheelchair space, low floor, lightweight ramp, electric reals, air-con £6,995
(60) 2010 Renault Master 3.5 ton GVW 17 seat minibus, 2.3 diesel, six speed manual, high back seats, tacho, 38,000kms, sat-nav £15,995
(06) 2006 Iveco Daily Iris Bus 16 seat, 2.8 litre, six speed, front entry drop step with power door, fully tracked floor, full power under floor tail lift, rear heating, 65,000 mile £10,995
(60) 2010 Renault Master 9 seat Shuttel 2.3 diesel six speed, large boot, sat-nav, Bluetooth £10,495
(05) 2005 Citroen Dispatch 1.9 diesel, five speed manual, four seats plus wheelchair, low floor with lightweight ramp, 57,000 miles £4,495
(56) 2006 Peugeot Boxer 3.5 ton 17 seat LWB minibus, 2.8 diesel, high back seats with three point seat belts, 19,000 miles only £9,450
(53) 2003 Renault Master SWB 2.3 diesel, inboard Ricon lift,tracking for two wheelchairs, electric side step £5,995
D L O S
Tel: 01633 485858 Mobile: 07866 443304
Contact Graham Thatcher – email: sales@minibussales.co.uk
Pembridge House, The Park Business Centre, Plough Road, Goytre, Penperlleni, Nr Usk, South Wales NP4 0AL – 10 minutes from M4 motorway. Viewing by appointment only Finance Contract Hire and Finance Lease Available. We deliver Nationwide. All vehicles prepared to VOSA standard COIF/PSV specialist
All above prices are subject to VAT @ 20%
703175-1150-Moseley 11/08/2014 12:34 Page 1
BUS & COACH
IN THE SOUTH LTD.
2010 SCANIA K360 OMNI EXPRESS - AUTOMATIC & EEV EMISSION LEVEL 51 reclining seats with 3 point seat belts, leather headrests inserts, Individual footrests & seat back tables, courier seat, powered plug entrance door, double glazed side windows, AIR CONDITIONING, rear floor mounted toilet compartment, continental exit with powered exit door, radio/PA/CD audio system, DVD player with front monitor, water boiler at courier side, dash mounted fridge, reverse camera, curtains, integral retarder, automatic transmission, alloy wheels, digital tachograph.
2008 IVECO EURORIDER BEULAS CYGNUS - AUTOMATIC & EURO 4 EMISSION LEVEL 53 reclining seats with 3 point seat belts OR 49 reclining seats with ONE wheelchair position, courier seat, plug entrance door, double glazed side windows, AIR CONDITIONING, near side wheelchair lift & access, radio/PA/CD player, DVD & monitor, dash mounted fridge, O/S rear continental exit with powered door, powered luggage compartment doors, curtains, driver’s safe, cruise control, digital tachograph, integral retarder, automatic transmission.
2007 KASSBOHRER SETRA S415HD - MERCEDES POWER - LOW MILEAGE 48 reclining seats with contrasting upholstery, leather headrests, individual footrests & magazine nets, courier seat, tinted double glazed side windows, AIR CONDITIONING, radio/PA/CD audio system, centre sunken toilet, continental exit with powered door, DVD & 2 motorised monitors, navigation system, dash mounted fridge, water boiler, curtains, parallel lift luggage locker doors, Webasto, digital tachograph, retarder, manual transmission.
BOVA FUTURA FHD 14.430XE ‘MAGNUM’ TRI-AXLE INTEGRAL - 13.7MTR 63 reclining seats including leather headrest inserts & individual footrests, courier seat, curtains, FUTURAIR AIR CONDITIONING, radio/PA/CD audio system, video player & monitor, double glazed side windows, panelled rear, manual transmission, intarder with hand control, Webasto.
Summerfield Avenue, Chelston Business Park, Wellington, Somerset, TA21 9JF
www.moseleysouth.co.uk Follow us @MoseleySouth on /moseley south
Telephone (01823) 653000 Fax: (01823) 663502 Email: sales@moseleysouth.co.uk
701915-1151-DrewWilson 18/08/2014 13:18 Page 1
DREW WILSON coach sales
2003 MERCEDES VARIO 614D 24 coach seats, 3 point belts, luggage racks, forced air ventilation, reading lights, large drop well boot, curtains, aisle carpets, manual, slam door, new paint, 418,273 kms. £20,000 + VAT
1998 VOLVO OLYMPIAN Alexander Body, Volvo engine, Voith automatic gearbox, 78/81 seater, power door, front destination, tacho, seatbelts.
2008 MERCEDES 816D PLAXTON CHEETAH 33 high backed coach seats, 3 point belts, curtains, manual gearbox, double glazed tinted windows, new Mot, wheel trims, rear boot plus side locker. 145,022kms. £72,000 + VAT
1999 DENNIS JAVELIN CAETANO CUTLASS 70 Cogent seats with belts, 6 speed ZF manual, power door, luggage racks, forced air, reading lights, CCtV system fitted, 330,000 kms, one owner, new test. £21,500 + VAT
1998 MERCEDES VARIO 814D PLAXTON BEAVER 2 23 coach seats, seatbelts, manual, power door, 450,746kms, good bodywork and interior.
2002 MERCEDES SPRINTER CDI 16 seats. Luggage racks, cd player. Manual. Slam door. Lovely condition. £6,000 + VAT
2007 57 WRIGHTS GEMINI 2 68 + 2 flip down leather seats, single door, CCtV cameras, Volvo B7tL engine - Euro 4, Voith automatic gearbox, low mileage. £89,500 + VAT
2002 SCANIA VAN HOOL ALIZEE T9 49/53 recliners with belts, crew seat, air con, luggage racks with reading lights, carpets and curtains, ZF auto box, reconditioned engine fitted, very tidy condition. £35,000 + VAT
£4,500 + VAT
2000 DENNIS TRIDENT ALEXANDER ALX400 85 dual purpose seats, fully seat belted and certified, Cummins engine, Voith automatic gearbox, single entry front door, super low floor, DDA, very good condition. £17,000 + VAT
2007 MERCEDES PLAXTON BEAVER 3 33 high back seats with 3 point belts, power door, luggage racks, side wheelchair ramp, manual gearbox, Mot till November £31,000 + VAT
2008 MERCEDES 816D PLAXTON CHEETAH 29 coach seats with 3 point belts, double glazed, air con, large boot, power door, 6 speed manual, DVD/CD/radio/ PA, new/paint, LEZ compliant, new Mot, 293,718 kms. £69,000 + VAT
2000 VOLVO B10M CAETANO ENIGMA 49 recliners plus crew seat with belts, power door, recent retrim, overhead luggage rack with reading lights, ZF manual, centre sunken toilet, Mot till September. £20,500 + VAT
2007 ADL ENVIRO 200 29 seater with 17 standees or 26 seater with 17 standees plus 1 wheelchair, automatic, power door, front, side and rear destination, DDA compliant, wheelchair accessible. £55,000 + VAT
1998 VOLVO OLYMPIAN ALEXANDER BODY 79 high backed coach seats, seat belts fitted, Volvo engine, Voith automatic gearbox, power door, new Mot, choice of 2. £12,750 + VAT
2004 OPTARE SOLO MERCEDES ENGINE 27 seats, wheelchair accessible, destination equipment, power door, auto, on sale due to fleet upgrade. Also available 2005, 2006 & 2007, some with belts. Also slimline model available. £20,000 + VAT
2002 MERCEDES VARIO 814D BEAVER 2 33 high backed coach seats, 3 point belts, manual gearbox, luggage racks, 489,308kms, power door, hopper windows, FSR destination, rear boot. £11,000 + VAT
2004 SETRA 49 seat executive, DVD, toilet, recent new clutch, Mot Nov, 560,000kms, in plain white, all round very good condition. £35,000 + VAT
2001 DENNIS DART SLF Max capacity 65, power door, new Mot, Hanover front, rear and side destination, manual wheelchair ramp, all seats in good condition, very clean and tidy, choice of 2. WITH BELTS £7,000 WITHOUT BELTS £4,500 + VAT
2005 MERCEDES VARIO 814D 24 seats + crew seat, KVC conversion, manua, 241285 kms, 3 points belts, rear boot, fully trimmed interior, full body skirt kit, immaculate condition. £25,000 + VAT
2003 MAN AYATS ATLANTIS 49/53 recliners with seat belts, crew seat, centre sunken toilet, hot water boiler, air conditioning, continental door, power door, ZF auto gearbox. £23,000 + VAT
2006 MERCEDES BEAVER 2 814D 33 coach seats, automatic, luggage racks, 3 point seatbelts, power door, tail lift, Purmo heating, destination front, side and rear. £30,000 + VAT
1999 DENNIS DART SLF PLAXTON POINTER 29 seats 17 standees, 26 seats 21 standees, 26 seats 17 standees, 1 wheelchair, power door, tidy condition for year, Mot oct, disabled access, part exchange considered. £7,500 + VAT
DAF IKARUS 70 Cogent seats with three point belts, power door, crew seat, freshly re painted into white, ZF automatic, long Mot, ideal school bus. £17,500 + VAT
1996 VOLVO B10M PLAXTON PREMIERE 350 51 reclining coach seats, lap belts, offside rear toilet, servery, fridge, 6 speed ZF gearbox, radio cassette, reversing camera, cctv, forced air, reading lights, tidy condition, current Mot. £12,000 + VAT
£8,000 + VAT
CHOICE OF OVER 350 VEHICLES • OPEN 7 DAYS 08.00-18.00
CHECK OUT OUR WEBSITE AT WWW.DREWWILSON.CO.UK Tel/Fax: 0141 248 5524 • Mob: 07764 200444 • Email: drew@drewwilson.co.uk Mob: 07827 325474 • Email: graham@drewwilson.co.uk
702534-1151-Connaught_Layout 1 18/08/2014 15:08 Page 1
Brand New coach-built Mercedes 516 CDi Euro 6 Ferqui Soroco 19 high back reclining seats, 3 point belts, AC, DG, reading lights, power door, tow-bar and boot.
Brand New coach-built Mercedes 519 CDi Euro 6 Ferqui Soroco 16 leather high back reclining seats, 3 point belts, AC, DG, reading lights, DVD system, power door, large boot, metallic paint.
Brand New coach-built Mercedes 516 CDi Euro 6 Ferqui Soroco 16 high back reclining seats, 3 point belts, AC, DG, reading lights, power door, and large boot.
D L O
S
2013 62 Reg Mercedes 516 CDi Sprinter 16 high back seats, 3 point belts, forced air, reading lights, AC, large boot, low mileage, graphite metallic paint.
2011 Mercedes 516 CDi Sprinter 19 high back seats, 3 point belts, forced air, reading lights, drop step, coach back end, low mileage.
2008 58 Reg Mercedes 515 CDi Sprinter 19 high back leather trimmed seats, 3 point belts, forced air, reading lights, lowered entrance step, coach back end, low mileage.
2007 57 Reg Mercedes Soroco 16 high back leather trimmed seats, 3 point belts, AC, forced air, reading lights, power door, large boot.
2007 56 Reg Iveco 45C14 16 high back seats, 3 point belts, forced air, reading lights, curtains, reversing camera, power door and boot.
2006 06 Reg Ford Transit 16 seats, 3 point belts, long test.
2006 56 Reg Mercedes 413CDi Soroco 16 high back seats, 3 point belts, AC, forced air, reading lights, curtains, power door & large boot.
2003 03 Reg Mercedes 814D Vario Plaxton Cheetah 33 high back seats, 3 point belts, forced air, reading lights, power door and boot.
1999 S Reg Mercedes 814 Plaxton Beaver 33 seats, 3 point belts, power door, manual gearbox, new test.
Steve Peach Tel: 01405 814064 Mob: 07836 551020 Email: info@connaughtpsv.co.uk Web: www.connaughtpsv.co.uk
p64_CBW_1151 18/08/2014 15:47 Page 64
Call for details on our website conversions, upseating, refurbishment, and change of use conversion. Also vehicles available for hire short and long term.
www.staffordbuscentre.com email: martin@staffordbuscentre.com Telephone: 01782 791774 Mobile: 07803 222552 View our latest arrivals on www.staffordbuscentre.com
MERCEDES VARIO PLAXTON CHEETAH 2005 WITH PVT PLATE
33 SEATS, MANUAL GEARBOX, REAR BOOT, INTERIOR RACKS, NEW MOT
ALSO
£36,950.00 NEW MINICOACH CONVERSION TO A QUALITY USED VAN COIF + 12 MONTHS PSV MOT 16 COACH SEATS ON TRACK FRONT ENTRY,LUGGAGE RACKS 2004 MELLOR CHEETAH 33FLOORING SEATER AVAILABLE DRIVERS LOCKER, NON SLIP NEW TACHOGRAPH INSTALLATION OTHERS IN BUILD SO CHOOSE YOUR COLOUR £26,950.00 £25,450.00
64 | COACH & BUS WEEK | August 20, 2014
www.coachandbusweek.com
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Southdown PSV - 01342 711840 www.southdownpsv.co.uk
New Volvo B9TL Wrights Gemini 2-73 seats – choice
• Volvo D9B 260 Euro V engine • ZF 6AP1403B gearbox • 73 Rowan Telmac forward facing seats • Wired for 10 camera CCTV system • 2 year manufacturers warranty • Available now! £173,650 + VAT • Finance available – subject to status • Bus part-exchange welcome • Viewing by appointment only
£173,650 + VAT
Southdown PSV Silverwood Snow Hill Copthorne West Sussex RH10 3EN
2007 VOLKSWAGEN CRAFTER £19,950+ VAT
2012 FORD TRANSIT £18,950 + VAT
2012 FORD TRANSIT £16,750 + VAT
Air Conditioning • Immobiliser • Cloth Upholstery • Lumbar Adjustment • Adjustable Steering Column • Power Steering • Brake Assist • CD Player • Air Suspension • LEZ Compliant • One Owner • Alarm • Remote Alarm • Head Restraints • Rear Armrest • Cruise Control • Trip Computer • Front Fog Lamps • Radio • Ramps • UK Specification • Central Locking • Remote Central Locking • Height Adjustable Seat • Rear Headrests • Parking Camera • ABS • Electric Mirrors • Stereo • Rear Wheelchair Access • UK Supplied • Full Service History
Turbo Diesel • 6-Speed Manual • 7000 miles • Alarm • Remote Central Locking • Adjustable Steering Column • Air Bag • Electric Front Windows • Drivers Arm Rest • Rear Step • UK Supplied • Full Service History • AntiTheft System • Cloth Upholstery • Power Steering • Quick-Clear Screen • CD Player • Semi-High Roof • LEZ Compliant • One Company Owner • Immobiliser • Head Restraints • ABS • Rear Wash/wipe • Radio • Side Load Door • UK Specification
Diesel • 5000miles • Anti-Theft System • Cloth Upholstery • Rear Headrests • ABS • CD Player • 3-Person Rear Seat • Ply-Lined • Side Load Door • UK Supplied • Full Service History • Immobiliser • Head Restraints • Power Steering • Air Bag • Radio • Bulkhead • Dual Passenger Seat • LEZ Compliant • One Company Owner • Remote Central Locking • Height Adjustable Seat • Traction Control • Electric Front Windows • 6 Seat • Drivers Arm Rest • High Roof • UK Specification
2013 VAUXHALL VIVARO £15,950 + VAT
2010 FORD TRANSIT £14,950 + VAT
2012 FORD TRANSIT £13,750 + VAT
6000 miles • 6-speed manual • Air Conditioning • Immobiliser • Head Restraints • Adjustable Steering Column • ABS • Electric Front Windows • Radio • Bulkhead • LEZ Compliant • One Company Owner • Bluetooth • Remote Central Locking • Height Adjustable Seat • Parking Sensors • Air Bag • Electric Mirrors • iPod Connectivity • Twin Side Loading Doors • UK Specification • Anti-Theft System • Cloth Upholstery • Rear Headrests • Power Steering • Front Fog Lamps • CD Player • 3-Person Rear Seat • Dual Passenger Seat • UK Supplied • Full Service History
Turbo Diesel • 6-speed manual 19000 miles • Anti-Theft System • Cloth Upholstery • Rear Armrest • ABS • CD Player • Rear Heating • High Roof • Wheelchair Lift • UK Supplied • Full Service History • Immobiliser • Head Restraints • Head Restraints • Air Bag • Radio • Rear Wheelchair Access • Side Load Door • LEZ Compliant • One Company Owner • Remote Central Locking • Height Adjustable Seat • Power Steering • Electric Front Windows • 9 Seat • Drivers Arm Rest • Wheelchair Tracking • UK Specification
6-speed manual • 17000 miles • turbo diesel • Air Conditioning • Remote Central Locking • Height Adjustable Seat • Power Steering • Twin Air Bags • Electric Front Windows • 9 Seat • Twin Side Loading Doors • UK Specification • Anti-Theft System • Cloth Upholstery • Rear Armrest • ABS • Metallic Paintwork • CD Player • Drivers Arm Rest • Dual Passenger Seat • UK Supplied • Full Service History • Immobiliser • Head Restraints • Rear Headrests • Quick-Clear Screen • Rear Wash/wipe • Radio • Semi-High Roof
e m a i l : s a l e s @ g m a c o m m e r c i a ls .c o . u k www.coachandbusweek.com
ww w.gm ac omme rc ials. c om
August 20, 2014 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 67
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COUNTY COACHES of Essex
SALE DUE TO RETIREMENT 1997 Volvo B10MS Berkhof Axial 51 seats + courier seat and toilet ..................... £16,000 1995 Volvo B10MS Caetano Algarve II 53 seats + courier seat .....................................£12,000 1996 Volvo B10MS Jonckheere 57 seats + courier seat ......................................£16,000
2003 Volvo B12M Jonckheere Euro 3
1994 Volvo B10MS Van Hool Alizee 67 seats + courier seat .....................................£15,000
48 x 3 point belted seats, 1 crew, air conditioned, saloon mounted w/c, rear continental door, MOT November 2014. Direct from SHEARINGS HOLIDAYS fleet with full service history.
1996 Volvo B10MS Plaxton Premiere 305 67 seats + courier seat ..................................£16,000
£POA – NO REASONABLE OFFER REFUSED
1996 Volvo B10MS Van Hool Alizee 67 seats + courier seat .....................................£19,000 1998 Volvo B10MS Salvador Caetano Enigma 70 seats + courier seat .........................£25,000 Nigel McCree Mobile: 07817 542113 Office: 01509 502695 or Nev Simpson Mobile: 07814 716149 Email: nigel@nigelmccree.com Insurance Stock updated weekly on the website:
All prices are plus VAT
Tel: 01277 201505 Mobile: 07710573525
www.nigelmccree.com SHORT OF CASH? RE-FINANCE YOUR VEHICLES WITH US – CALL 07736 850375
!
2
2011 Mercedes ! ! ! Sprinter 516 CDI
!
• Stanford coach works • 16 reclining seats Air conditioned • Automatic gearbox ! Large boot • MOT June 15 £29,500 + VAT
!
!
!
!
For further information and to arrange a viewing please call:
! ! ! Folkestone ! ! 01303 261870 Ask for Scott or Nigel ! ! ! ! 68 | COACH & BUS WEEK | August 20, 2014 ! ! ! !
www.coachandbusweek.com
p69_CBW_1151 18/08/2014 15:36 Page 69
2007 (07) MERCEDES BENZ 511 CDI 16 SEAT ACCESSIBLE BUS 72,000 MILES COIF/PSV (CHOICE OF 2) £18,495 08 (08) IVECO IRIS BUS 50C15 17 SEAT INC DRIVER W/CHAIR ACCESS PLUG DOOR COIF/PSV £17,995
07 (57) FORD TRANSIT 85 T280S WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE 8 SEATS INBOARD LIFT FULLY TRACKED FLOOR £9,450
2012 (12) FORD TRANSIT ELWB MEDIUM ROOF 135PS COIF/PSV 58,327KMS £16,495
2009 (59) CITROEN RELAY 2.5 HDI LONG WHEEL BASE 14 SEAT WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE
07 (07) FORD TRANSIT 85 T280S W/CHAIR ACCESS 8 SEATS INC DRIVER 85,270 MILES £10,495
NEW MERCEDES SPRINTER TOURLINE 519CDI • ALTAS CONVERSION • 17 SEAT MINICOACH • DOUBLE GLAZED WINDOWS • FULL AIR CONDITIONING • POWER DOOR LOW ENTRY STEP
P.O.A.
62,000 MILES COIF/PSV 03 (53) MERCEDES SPRINTER 413 CDI 17 SEAT CREST CONVERSION LUGGAGE RACKS COIF/PSV £10,750
(PONTYPOOL) LTD
£17,995
MULTIPART & LDV/MAXUS PARTS STOCKISTS
Tel: 01495 757111 Mob: 07850 739446 (Haydn) or visit our website www.minibussales.biz to view the above stock
VUgYWcUW\gU`Yg#Wc#i_ www.coachandbusweek.com
August 20, 2014 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 69
p70_CBW_1151 18/08/2014 15:33 Page 70
!
Choice of two ' ' ' 2009 Setra 416 GTHD ' ' ' '
Setra 315 – £32,000 8
6 speed manual, 49 seater executive, MOT April 2015, LEZ, Eminox system.
8 ' ' 48 & 49 reclining seats ' ' ' ' ' ' Centre toilet • Hot water boiler • Fridge ' ' ' ' with 2 screens ' ' ' DVD ' ' ' ' MOT February & April 2015 ' ' 410,000 km & 520,000 km ' ' ' £114,950 + VAT
' '
'
'
'
' ' For further information and to arrange a viewing please call:
Folkestone 01303 261870 Ask for Scott or Nigel
DAF SB3000 Plaxton Premier 320 – £15,000 ZF automatic gearbox, 53 seats, lap belts, souble glazed, in-swing power door, footrests, curtains, ZF intarder. !
2007 Scania PB – £95,000 49 seater executive, MOT April 2015, this vehicle has been owned by us from new.
Mercedes 814 Beaver 2 – £POA 31 seats, 3 point belts, new MOT, choice of 2.
Williams Coaches T: 01874 622223 E: office@williams-coaches.co.uk 70 | COACH & BUS WEEK | August 20, 2014
www.coachandbusweek.com
'
702875-1147-Ben Weaver FP 04/08/2014 13:46 Page 1
BEN WEAVER commercials PSV
2007 07 PLATE NEW SHAPE MERCEDES SPRINTER 515CDI 21 SEAT FRONT ENTRY WELFARE BUS 2200 CDI turbo diesel 150ps, automatic, rear air con, UV Modular conversion, Ratcliffe underfloor rear wheelchair lift, tracking for upto 6 wheelchairs, COIF, digital tacho, PSV, electric front entry plug door, AVS electric side entry step, CD player, electric mirrors, currently fitted with 13 seats but 8 more can be to make 21, 77,000 miles, excellent condition, supplied with 12 months PSV or MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 3 months nationwide parts and labour warranty £ 19,995 + VAT
PSV
2003 53 PLATE IVECO DAILY IRIS 40C13 15 SEAT FRONT ENTRY WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE MINIBUS Analogue tachograph, certificate of initial fitness, PSV, 2.8 turbo diesel 6 speed manual gearbox, white, panoramic glass, front entry door, Ratcliffe underfloor rear wheelchair lift, tracking for upto 6 wheelchairs, LEZ compliant, 166,000 kilometers 103,000 miles, excellent condition, supplied with 12 months PSV or MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 1 months nationwide parts and labour warranty £ 6,995
PSV
2006 06 PLATE VOLKSWAGEN LT46 13 SEAT WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE MINIBUS 2.5 TDI, silver, Access underfloor rear wheelchair lift, tracking for up to 3 wheelchairs, electric plug side entry door with electric access step, digital tachograph, certificate of initial fitness, PSV, LEZ compliant, 104,000 miles, very good condition, supplied with 12 months PSV or MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 3 months nationwide parts and labour warranty £ 9,295 + VAT
PSV
2004 54 PLATE FORD TRANSIT 17 SEAT WELFARE MINIBUS White, 2.4 turbo diesel 125 ps, 5 speed manual gearbox, Chassis Developments conversion, certificate of initial fitness, PSV, Access underfloor rear wheelchair lift, tracking for up to 6 wheelchairs, 1 ex local authority owner from new, 103,000 miles excellent condition, supplied with 12 months PSV or MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 3 months nationwide parts and labour warranty £ 6,895 + VAT
PSV
2008 58 VOLKSWAGEN TRANSPORTER T5 15 SEAT WELFARE BUS Bluebird Tucana conversion, 2.5 TDi, automatic gearbox, COIF, digital tachograph, gross vehicle weight of 4100 kgs so can be driven without a D1 licence, fold out rear wheelchair ramp, tracking for up to 5 wheelchairs, electric front entry doors with fold out wheelchair ramp, reversing camera, LEZ compliant, 69,000 miles, excellent condition, supplied with 12 months PSV or MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Sheme standards, 3 months nationwide parts and labour £ 12,495 + VAT
PSV
2004 54 MERCEDES 814 PLAXTON BEAVER 2 29 SEAT WELFARE BUS 4.25 turbo diesel, 5 speed manual gearbox, yellow/green, COIF, analogue tachograph, PSV, Ratcliffe underfloor rear wheelchair lift, tracking for 10 wheelchairs, electric bi-fold front door, destination boards, 492,000 kilometers/307,000 miles, VGC, supplied with 12 months MOT or PSV, fully serviced to RTA standards, 1 month nationwide parts and labour warranty £ 17,995 + VAT
PSV
2004 54 PLATE FORD TRANSIT 17 SEAT WELFARE MINIBUS White, 2.4 turbo diesel 125 ps 5 speed manual gearbox, Chassis Developments conversion, certificate of initial fitness, PSV, Access underfloor rear wheelchair lift, tracking for up to 6 wheelchairs, 1 ex local authority owner from new, 103,000 miles, excellent condition, supplied with 12 months PSV or MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 3 months nationwide parts and labour warranty £ 6,895 + VAT
PSV
2005 05 PLATE FORD TRANSIT XLWB HIGH ROOF 17 SEAT WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE MINIBUS 2.4 115ps turbo diesel blue, Access underfloor rear wheelchair lift, tracking for up to 5 wheelchairs, COIF, analogue tachograph, PSV, power assisted steering, remote central locking, overhead cab, luggage tray, side loading door, Access step, 215,000 kilometers/ 134,000 miles, excellent condition, supplied with 12 months PSV or MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 3 months nationwide parts and labour warranty £ 7,995 + VAT
PSV
2005 54 PLATE FORD TRANSIT XLWB HIGH ROOF 13 SEAT WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE MINIBUS 2.4 115ps turbo diesel, blue, Access underfloor rear wheelchair lift, tracking for up to 5 wheelchairs, 4 extra seats can be added to make up to 17 seater, COIF, analogue tachograph, PAS, remote central locking, side loading door, Access step, 113,000 miles, excellent condition, supplied with 12 months PSV or MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 3 months nationwide parts and labour warranty £ 7,995 + VAT
PSV
2007 07 REG IVECO DAILY 50C15 9 - 17 SEAT FRONT ENTRY WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE MINIBUS 3000cc turbo diesel, automatic, COIF, digital tacho, electric front entry plug door with fold out step, Access underfloor rear wheelchair lift, tracking for 6 wheelchairs, fitted with 9 seats but additional seating can be added, remote central locking, electric windows, CD player, LEZ compliant, ex local authority owned, 43,000 miles, excellent condition, supplied with 12 months PSV or MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 3 months nationwide parts and labour warranty £ 13,995 + VAT
PSV
LEZ
2007 56 MERCEDES BENZ 813 25 SEAT WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE WELFARE BUS 4.25 turbo diesel, Blutec 4 engine, 6 speed manual gearbox, white, Excel conversion, digital tachograph, Ratcliffe underfloor rear wheelchair lift, tracking for 6 wheelchairs, electric plug front entry door, 119,000 kilometers/74,000 miles, excellent condition, supplied with 12 months MOT, fully serviced to RTA standards, 3 months nationwide parts and labour warranty £ 17,495 + VAT
2006 06 PLATE MERCEDES SPRINTER 413CDI 17 SEAT FRONT ENTRY WELFARE MINIBUS 2200 CDI turbo diesel 130PS, 6 speed Sprintshift automatic gearbox, air conditioning, UV Modular conversion, Ratcliffe underfloor rear wheelchair lift, tracking for upto 6 wheelchairs, COIF, analogue tachograph, CD player, 171,000 kilometers/107,000 miles, excellent condition, supplied with 12 months PSV or MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 3 months nationwide parts and labour warranty £ 14,995 + VAT
PSV
2004 54 PLATE MERCEDES SPRINTER 413CDI 17 SEAT FRONT ENTRY WELFARE MINIBUS 2200 CDI turbo diesel 130ps, 6 speed Sprintshift automatic gearbox, white, UV Modular conversion, Ratcliffe underfloor rear wheelchair lift, fully tracked, tracking for upto 6 wheelchairs, COIF, PSV, LEZ compliant, CD playe,r 82,000 miles, excellent condition, supplied with 12 months PSV or MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 3 months nationwide parts and labour warrnty £ 10,995 + VAT
PSV
2005 55 PLATE IVECO DAILY IRIS 45C13 13 SEAT FRONT ENTRY WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE MINIBUS Certificate of initial fitness, analogue tachograph, PSV, electric front entry plug door with low access step, Ricon internal rear wheelchair lift, 166,000 kilometers/103,000 miles, excellent condition, supplied with 12 months PSV or MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 3 months nationwide parts and labour warranty £ 8,495 + VAT
PSV
PSV
2002 52 PLATE MERCEDES SPRINTER 413CDI 17 SEAT FRONT ENTRY WELFARE MINIBUS 2200 CDI turbo diesel 130ps, 6 speed Sprintshift automatic gearbox, white, UV Modular conversion, Ratcliffe underfloor rear wheelchair lift, fully tracked, tracking for upto 6 wheelchairs, COIF, analogue tachograph, PSV, 157,000 kilometers/ 98,000 miles, excellent condition, supplied with 12 months PSV or MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 1 month nationwide parts and labour warranty £ 7,495 + VAT
2005 05 PLATE VOLKSWAGEN LT35 LWB HIGH ROOF 17 SEAT MINIBUS 2.5 TDI, green, COIF, analogue tachograph, PSV, LEZ compliant, 125,000 miles, excellent condition, supplied with 12 months PSV or MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 3 months nationwide parts and labour warranty £ 5,995 + VAT
PSV
2005 05 PLATE FORD TRANSIT XLWB HIGH ROOF 13 SEAT WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE MINIBUS 2.4 115PS turbo diesel, silver, Access underfloor rear wheelchair lift, tracking for up to 5 wheelchairs, 4 more seats can be added, COIF, analogue tachograph, PAS, remote central locking, overhead cab, luggage tray, side loading door, Access step, 61,000 miles, excellent condition, supplied with 12 months PSV or MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 3 months nationwide parts and labour warranty £ 9,495 + VAT
PSV
2003 52 PLATE MERCEDES SPRINTER 413CDI 17 SEAT FRONT ENTRY WELFARE MINIBUS 2200 CDI turbo diesel 130ps, 6 speed Sprintshift automatic gearbox, white, UV Modular conversion, Ratcliffe underfloor rear wheelchair lift, tracking for upto 6 wheelchairs, COIF, analogue tachograph, electric front entry plug door, LEZ compliant,155,000 miles, excellent condition, supplied with 12 months PSV or MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 1 month nationwide parts and labour warranty £ 6,995 + VAT
PSV
2007 07 PLATE IVECO DAILY 50C15 AUTOMATIC FRONT ENTRY WHEELCHAIR MINIBUS 3000cc turbo diesel, automatic, COIF, digital tacho, electric front entry plug door with fold out step, Access underfloor rear wheelchair lift, tracking for 6 wheelchairs, fitted with 9 seats but additional seating can be added, remote central locking, electric windows, CD player, LEZ compliant, ex local authority owned, 75,000 miles, excellent condition, supplied with 12 months PSV or MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 3 months nationwide parts and labour warranty £ 13,295 + VAT
PSV
2007 07 PLATE IVECO DAILY 50C15 AUTOMATIC FRONT ENTRY WHEELCHAIR MINIBUS 3000cc turbo diesel, automatic, COIF, digital tacho, electric front entry plug door with fold out step, Access underfloor rear wheelchair lift, tracking for 6 wheelchairs, fitted with 9 seats but additional seating can be added, remote central locking, electric windows, CD player, LEZ compliant, ex local authority owned, 100,000 miles, excellent condition, supplied with 12 months PSV or MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 3 months nationwide parts and labour warranty £ 12,495 + VAT
Gower Street, Sheffield, S4 7JW Tel: 0114 275 7076 www.minibuses-for-sale.co.uk All vehicles supplied with 12 months MOT/PSV, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards and 1–3 months nationwide parts and labour warranty
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Call for details on our website conversions, upseating, refurbishment, and change of use conversion. Also vehicles available for hire short and long term.
www.staffordbuscentre.com email: martin@staffordbuscentre.com Telephone: 01782 791774 Mobile: 07803 222552
View our latest arrivals on www.staffordbuscentre.com OPTARE SOLO M920 2004 04 REG Mercedes engine, Alison gearbox, 31 seats +21 standing, MOT April 2015, repainted white £19,450 Choice of 3
DENNIS DART PLAXTON POINTER SPD 199 T reg, Euro 4, 47 seats - 45 belted, tacho, new paint and test. £9,450
OPTARE SOLO M850 SLIMLINE 2005 55 reg 27 seats, 25 with 3 point belts, DDA etc. fully repainted, taxed and tested £29,950
MERCEDES VARIO PLAXTON CHEETAH 2005 with Private Plate, 33 seats, manual gearbox, rear boot, interior racks, new MOT. £36,950
MERCEDES 413CDI PLAXTON PRONTO 2006 56 reg 16 seat coachbuilt accessible PSV bus, choice of 2 with low miles £16,950 or rent for £350 per week (4 weeks min)
PLAXTON PRIMO/ ENTERPRISE BUS Nov 2006 56 reg Super low floor midi bus, DDA spec with ramp, plain white and long MOT, strictly a trade sale at this crazy price, come and have a drive £15,450
SINGLE DECKERS ADL ENVIRO 300 2006 56 REG. SLF BUS - dual use options, with 60 x 3 point belted seats, use on bus services or school contracts. PHONE FOR SPEC AND PRICE DENNIS DART CAETANO CUTLASS. Step entrance with 38 seats and 3 point belts. Ideal school contracts etc. £3,450 FORD TRANSITS 15-17 seats, available for short term rental. Rent for one week, month or year. Up to you. Always available. Phone for details MERCEDES 814 VARIO PLAXTON BEAVER 2 2004 54 REG. Fitted with 20 seats on tracking, and up to 10 wheelchairs, PSV, COIF and MoT, manual gearbox, power door, destination etc. long wheel base so could go to 32 seats. £14,950
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MERCEDES SPRINTER 313CDI 2011 11 REG 16 seat, new conversion, PSV, COIF and MoT, low miles £23,950
MERCEDES 413D SPRINTER 2004 04 REG. Extra long body with 16 seats and huge full height boot, COIF and long MoT. £11,950 VW LT 46. Extra long wheelbase and super low floor, currently only 8 seats but could be 16-20 seats or make superb accessible camper. CHOICE OF 2 FROM £4,950
IVECO DAILY 45 15 LWB HIGH ROOF 2005 55 REG. 16 seats wheelchair accessible with power door, new MoT £5,950 DENNIS DART PLAXTON SUPER POINTER. 47 fully belted seats, ideal for schools £9,450 DAF PLAXTON PREMIER 1996 PP. Fitted with 55 seats, automatic gearbox, new MOT upon sale £9,950 MERCEDES 814D VARIO 2004 04 REG. 32 high back seats, 3 point belts, manual gearbox £14,450 OPTARE SOLO M850 2000 W REG. One remaining with 23/25 coach seats with ramp, DDA etc £4,950 OPTARE SOLO SLIMLINE 7.8M 55 REG. Mercedes engine, 21/23 seats with 3 point belts, new paint etc £POA VDL SB180 2010 59 REG Cummins 6 ISB engine with MCV evolution body, only 20k miles £POA
www.coachandbusweek.com
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BUSINESSES WANTED
Wanted
ENGINES
Bus & Coach Businesses
• Are you Retiring • Losing Money • Need Investment • or Just Had Enough
We have Interested Buyers, Cash Investors Waiting
Reply, in con"idence, to PO Box 490, Scarborough YO11 9FF
HEAVY DUTY STEEL BUILDINGS
BUILDINGS
• Bus Workshops • Secure Storage
• Supplied any width, any length
• Building to BS5590
• Doors high enough for Double Deckers • Finance available Phone for further information
BLUELINE BUILDINGS 01709 578333 anytime CHECKPOINTS
ENGINEERING SERVICES
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
FUEL SAVING
‘Stop Fuel Theft’ • Prevents access to tank, while allowing unrestricted filling • Prevents trash being put into tank • Wide range to suit most coach and bus fuel tanks
Contact JBL Mechanical Engineers Green Fields • Stanton • Shrewsbury • Shropshire SY4 4LR
Tel: 01939 251 351 • Fax: 01939 251 051 Mobile: 07831 332 913 www.coachandbusweek.com
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Call Kerry Watson Tel: 01733 293488 E: kerry.watson@coachandbusweek.com
CLASSIFIEDS
GARAGE EQUIPMENT
ENGINES
E & E Potts Ltd
DIESEL ENGINE RECONDITIONER
• ATF Lanes • MOT Bays • Vehicle Lifts • Brake Testing Equipment • Column Lifts • Inspection Pits • Repair and 6 Monthly Service Inspections Tel: 01386 244758 Mobile: 07538 218194 www.commercialgarageequipment.co.uk Email: sales@commercialgarageequipment.co.uk
Specialists in Cummins, Perkins, Caterpillar, Mercedes Commercial, Volvo, MAN, DAF, Scania.
GLASS & WINDOWS
All Engines are Dynamometer and Smoke Emissions Tested. Full Engines, Long Engines and Short Motors Available. Cylinder Heads, Blocks, Crankshafts, Camshafts, Pistons, Turbochangers, Gaskets and Bearings always in stock.
Call us today on 0161-737-4666 Email: eepottsltd@aol.com Engine House, New Thomas Street, Salford, M6 6WF
FLEET SALES
HEATING
RETIRING or
CHANGING YOUR FLEET?
Heaters • A/C Equipment Blowers • Motors • Radiators Silicone Hose • Ducting Wiper Equipment • Gas Struts
Contact Malcolm Harrison Auctions
Tel: 01993 849522 Fax: 01993 706920
01630 674326
www.thhs.co.uk
auctions@malcolmharrison.co.uk MALCOLM HARRISON AUCTIONS
Email: sales@thhs.co.uk UNIT 9 NIMROD BUSINESS PARK DE HAVILLAND WAY, WITNEY OX29 0YG
Contact Kerry Watson T: 01733 293488 F: 0845 280 2927 E: kerry.watson @coachandbusweek.com 74 | COACH & BUS WEEK | August 20, 2014
www.coachandbusweek.com
p75_CBW_1151 18/08/2014 15:43 Page 75
www.coachandbusmarket.com
ESSENTIAL PRODUCTS AND SERVICES SEATBELTS
PARTS
Formed in 2011 to support the UK’s PSV & CV operators with parts from Market leading OEM brands from World Wide renowned manufacturers
We off a comprehensive all makes parts program in:
Braking • Steering • Suspension Chassis Components • Transmission Filtration • Engine • Electrical Lubricants • Consumables EXPRESS PARTS DELIVERY
Master Part | Portland House | Dukeries Industrial Estate | Worksop | Notts | S81 7BQ
TRAINING
Contact Kerry Watson T: 01733 293488 F: 0845 280 2927 E: kerry.watson @coachandbusweek.com
TRAINING
Driver CPC Periodic Training
cts
Whalley Centre for Transport Studies
CPC Management Courses “Everyone knows someone who has done their training at Whalley”
If you would like further information please call 01543 897505
Visit our website: www.lloydmorgangroup.co.uk www.coachandbusweek.com
Tel: 01254 248177 Clitheroe, Lancashire info@whalleytransportstudies.co.uk
www.whalleytransportstudies.co.uk August 20, 2014 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 75
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Call Kerry Watson Tel: 01733 293488 E: kerry.watson@coachandbusweek.com
CLASSIFIEDS TRIM
TRANSMISSIONS
High quality bus & coach retrims
blackpool trim shops
Shelley Transmission Services Limited Eagle Street, off Bilston Road Wolverhampton, WV2 2AQ Tel: 01902 351178 Fax: 01902 352545
With over 45 years expertise, we guarantee to beat any other quote.
WHY GO ANYWHERE ELSE?
We have sets of Plaxton Premieres and VanHools for sale.
Call us on 07968 717115 or email us at: sales@blackpooltrimshops.co.uk Tel/Fax:
astgate COACH TRIMMERS LTD
01751 472229
Email: info@eastgate-coachtrimmers.co.uk Web: www.eastgate-coachtrimmers.co.uk
Supplying the Bus and Coach Industry with quality seat retrims and interior refurbishment.
We have everything here – for free quotes at compe ve prices – service exchange or cost of repair. You can be assured of professional advice
NO JOB TOO SMALL!
We can collect and deliver na onwide
We stock the full range of gearboxes and differen.als of all makes and models, including Volvo, Mercedes, ZF, DAF, Iveco, MAN, ERF, Fuller, Rockwell, Scania, Eaton – all in stock.
ALL MAKES OF STEERING BOXES IN STOCK! Repair service available for pumps and rams
RECONDITIONED AND NEW PROPSHAFTS, BRAKE CALIPERS All propsha components and CV joints for all vehicles including plant and farm machinery
Top quality repair and balancing service – our speciality Recondi.oned starter motors and alternators for PSV, HGV and light commercial vehicles available Why be off the road – Call today! Call us now, don’t delay
Full floors re-laid and centre gangways.
FREEPHONE: 0800 652 0901
Collection and delivery service anywhere in the UK, seven days a week.
www.shelleytransmission.co.uk Email: sales@shelleytransmission.co.uk
WHEELS
VEHICLE SPARES
WHEELS TIA Wheels for your supply of Truck & Bus Steel wheels and Forged Alloy wheels With 20 yrs worth of experience in the wheel industry, we provide a broad range of sizes, hold large stocks, can offer next day service, all TUV certified and all meet European standards of ETRTO & EUWA.
Size range from 17.5” to 22.5” STEEL AND ALLOY Speedline forged compete with lightest weights in market.
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
Units B2-B4, Halesfield 8, Telford TF7 4QN Tel: 02921 432116 Email: sales@tiawheels.co.uk 76 | COACH & BUS WEEK | August 20, 2014
Call 01226 723147 Night Service 01226 716479 Fax 01226 700199 Email wigleys@btconnect.com
www.twigley.com www.coachandbusweek.com
In association with
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
Monday: James here. Gareth is enjoying a well-earned break all week. Designer Wayne is in covering for Ian and does an admirable job, despite being relatively unfamiliar with the magazine. It’s quite a late finish, but none of us really mind. Tuesday: Despite the long press day yesterday we’re quite far ahead on the subsequent issue, but as one of the greatest Starcraft commentators says: “When you’re ahead, get more ahead.” Spend much of the day ensuring plenty of deliveries, legal news stories and other small jobs are in publishable condition. Wednesday: News is in short supply – three days into the week and almost nothing has surfaced yet, even for regional news when I try to get that out of the way. Proof read everything which is designed already and source images for upcoming Group Travel World (sister title) features.
A Sapphire ring proposal A man from Darlington has driven his fiancé to tears (of joy) after proposing to her on board an Arriva Sapphire bus. When Frank Smith dreamed of getting down on one knee and proposing to his partner of nearly two years Fiona, he admitted that popping the question on a bus didn’t even cross his mind. However, he won a diamond ring in a competition held by Arriva, who then drove him to his proposal. He said: “I saw the proposal competition advertised on an Arriva bus and thought it seemed like the perfect way to propose to Fiona. I wanted to make a big gesture and I knew this was the last thing she would have expected. “If I am honest, it wouldn’t matter where I proposed as long as she said yes!” As part of the prize offered by Arriva, Frank was driven to Pizza Express to propose, where an unsuspecting Fiona was enjoying coffee with her children, unaware that she was being secretly filmed and that Frank was about to surprise her with the ring. Nick Knox, Managing Director for Arriva North East, said: “We are
Frank Smith proposes to his partner Fiona with the help of Arriva Sapphire delighted that Frank chose one of our Sapphire buses to propose to Fiona. It might not be the most traditional way to propose but it’s certainly different and we think our buses are the perfect fit for such a romantic gesture.
Bus cake for 50th birthday
Thursday: With a number of people expected out of the office on Friday, today is chosen to give me my sort-of leaving present, as I’m preparing to leave the company to work as a freelancer. I’m given a hilarious caricature-filled card and a voucher for Game from an office which has clearly got to know me well over the last three years. Friday: Waste no time spending my Game voucher on Super Mario 3D World – a present for both me and my better half. At the end of the day it’s a bit of a strange goodbye, since I’m still coming into the office the following Monday to help out on press day and will still produce content in the immediate future.
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This bus cake was given to long-time CBW subscriber Mark Woodgate for his 50th birthday. Mark works for Arriva The Shires at its Ware depot in Hertfordshire and is representing the firm at the Bus Driver of the Year competition in Blackpool on September 14. He is hoping to improve on his performance last year, where he finished ninth overall and was the top placed Arriva driver in the UK.
We just hope we get an invite to the wedding!” Watch the video of the proposal at http://youtube/ Xc2pyqsVu5k
Bulldog bus ride A missing bulldog managed to take a bus into Brighton on his own, the Brighton Argus reported. He boarded a route 22 bus in Elm Grove, Brighton. Passengers initially assumed the dog was with his owner – until it turned out he was unattended. He was returned home with the help Brighton & Hove Bus Company which runs route 22 and the newspaper itself. Driver Steve Weir looked after him at the end of their journey in Imperial Acade until council dog warden Izzie Blanden came to rescue him. Argus Chief Photographer Simon Dack, after taking some pictures of the pooch at Priory Vale vets in Patcham where he was being checked over, stumbled across a group of children looking for a bulldog. ‘Bullseye’ was then finally reunited with owner Scott Maynard.
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BUSES
Based in Merstham, Surrey we are looking for the following staff:
Engineer
RECRUITMENT & PEOPLE DEADLINES Booking: Monday 5.00pm Full artwork: Monday 5.00pm CONTACT Ian Gillis T: 01733 293484 E: ian.gillis@coachandbusweek.com
Epsom BTEC quali�ication
A vacancy has arisen for an experienced engineer to join the team at Buses Etc to become a key part of our service delivery team. Reporting to the general manager your duties will include all aspects of vehicle repair and maintenance together with the supervision of the maintenance staff including control of the workshop premises. We are looking for an experienced professional engineer and someone who is passionate and detailed in their approach. We operate a large fleet and this position is an important position in our expanding team.
Mechanics
Buses Etc need to recruit experienced coach and bus mechanics, working in a modern workshop based in Merstham in Surrey. You will be able to demonstrate the required skills to ensure our fleet maintains its high standards of vehicle maintenance
Bus drivers Are you an experienced bus driver, then we have long term permanent positions available in our Merstham depot, you will need a current CPC and be reliable and used to working shift patterns . In return we offer a competitive salary and benefits along with a great working environment For all of the above vacancies please call 07500 049061 or email your CV to operation@busesetc.com
Phil Allport, Epsom Coaches Group Training Instructor is flanked by Luke Holland and Rebecca Bonome Ruiz, with their BTEC qualifications After gaining its BTEC accreditation, Epsom Coaches Group has announced that its inaugural group of trainees have passed their BTEC quali�ication in Professional London Bus Service Delivery. The RATP Dev-owned operator said it will be rolling this out to all its new staff over the coming months. Jon Ball, General Manager, who is responsible for training at the
company commented: “We are now a registered BTEC trainer, enabling us to bring BTEC courses in house and signi�icantly raising our standard of training.” The inaugural class included Luke Holland and Rebecca Bonome Ruiz, Adrian Holland, Sally Ball, Martin Jolley, Matthew Hooper and Neil Perham. “We send our congratulations to everyone concerned on their success,” added Jon.
RECRUITNOW
GET YOUR VACANCY SEEN BY QUALITY CANDIDATES
ONLINE
With our combined print, digital and online packages at one all inclusive price Contact: Ian Gillis T: 01733 293484 E: ian.gillis@coachandbusweek.com
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www.coachandbusweek.com
18/08/2014 19:35
Rainbow walk raises cash for heroes
Hero Bear and trent barton mascot Mr Mango take centre stage on the Rainbow Walk Staff from trent barton have been putting their best foot forward to raise around £1,000 for a charity that supports injured servicemen and women. The firm’s Managing Director Jeff Counsell, Alex Hornby, Marketing and Communications Director, and
more than 30 staff and customers took part in an eight-mile walk from Eastwood to Nottingham to raise cash for Help for Heroes. They were joined by the charity’s Hero Bear mascot for the walk that covered the route of the company’s rainbow one services.
ALBUM, the organisation which represents the interests of municipal and independent bus operators, has appointed a new Chairman, following the resignation of James Freeman who is leaving Reading Buses to take up a senior management position in First West of England. Appointed, subject to ratification at ALBUM’s Annual General Meeting in May next year, is Ben Colson, former owner of award-
winning Norfolk Green, which he sold to Stagecoach last December. Ben commented: “ALBUM represents what government repeatedly assures us is an important SME sector in the provision of the nation’s bus services, and I am therefore privileged to have been asked to take on this role, albeit initially on an interim basis. “I must pay tribute to the work done by James Freeman over the last three years to consolidate and strengthen ALBUM’s unique position, and hope to be able to build further the profile of the SME sector of the bus industry.”
Ben Colson appointed new ALBUM Chairman
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Jeff explained: “Help for Heroes is our adopted charity for 2014 and so far this year we’ve raised over £2,000. The introduction of 16 new buses for our rainbow one and rapid one services as part of a £2m investment provided the ideal opportunity to raise some money.”
Gavin Peace joins Arriva North East Gavin Peace will join Arriva North East at the end of August as its new Engineering Director. He has previously held senior positions with National Express, FirstBus and Alstom. Speaking of his appointment, Regional Managing Director Nigel Featham said: “We are delighted to welcome Gavin into the team here at Arriva North East. He joins the business at an exciting time of growth and development. Arr-Va-Va-Voom, Arriva North East’s innovative Engineering Change Management programme is delivering some excellent results. Gavin will play a key role in building upon that programme and further strengthening our engineering performance.” Gavin succeeds long-serving and widely respected John Greaves. Added Nigel: “John will be retiring from Arriva after showing outstanding commitment and dedication for over 45 years.”
PCV MECHANIC Due to retirement a vacancy has arisen for an experienced PCV Mechanic. The ideal applicant with have a good all round knowledge of working with PCV vehicles however some additional training will be given. A valid PCV driving licence would be an advantage. Please apply in writing enclosing your CV to: Mr Michael Hunt, Hunts Coaches, 2-3 West Street, Alford, Lincs, LN13 9DG. Tel: 01507 463000.
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Vehicle Inspection & Maintenance Compliance Services If you would like further information please call 01543 897505
“Your flexible compliance partner” Visit our website: www.lloydmorgangroup.co.uk