20 | COACH & BUS WEEK | April 3, 2013
INDUSTRY
GUIDE
TO digital technology
D
Abellio Route Control in the Battersea depot makes extensive use of service management software
Moving PCVs into the digital age
This week’s Industry Guide examines the many forms of digital technology which can be used to great effect by bus and coach operators and why they are such a valuable investment www.coachandbusweek.com
IndustryGuide_Opener.indd 20
igital technology advances at a phenomenal rate and in our industry it’s no exception. In the last few years there have been major advancements in ticketing, online technology and telematics systems. With more and more operators investing in these products, their benefits are becoming clear. Bus routes with free WiFi on board are extremely popular with the younger generation, while access to the internet is practically a requirement on commuter routes. WiFi can also provide marketing opportunities through a landing page, which all users accessing the system will see. Mobile and smartcard ticketing have proven extremely popular for a number of operators across the country simply by making both the passenger and the operator’s lives easier. Passengers can board without the hassle of fumbling with change or discovering the driver cannot change a £10 or £20 note,
while the operator can enjoy faster boarding times and less cash to handle. To use these systems requires more advanced ticket machines in place which can handle new technology like Near Field Communication (NFC). Fortunately, modern machines are becoming more versatile and adaptable to any future developments in ticketing technology, meaning it is a great time to upgrade at the next rollout. Scheduling software is becoming more and more advanced, with integrated mapping and real-time tracking. Investing in a modern system can really make a difference when it comes to managing headways and staying in control of day-to-day operations. Digital technology can also provide safety measures. Telematics systems are in use by an increasing proportion of the industry and are widely accepted to improve driving standards, save fuel and reduce accidents. Digital breathalysers can alert managers as soon as a driver fails a breath test, allowing them to act immediately.
02/04/2013 12:13
696591-1081-GuideDogs
2/4/13
15:34
Page 1
22 | COACH & BUS WEEK | April 3, 2013
INDUSTRY
GUIDE
TO DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY
QUARTIX
Above left: Quartix’s live tracking includes Google Maps integration. Above: The DailyLog. Left: A graph displaying weekly information on driver behaviour. Below: An example of a daily route chart
A reported 40% of coach and bus operators are equipped with telematics in the UK and this number is growing fast. The benefits of vehicle tracking are evident for many operators looking to save fuel, time and money and improve the safety of their drivers and customers; but what are the things to look out for when choosing a supplier and how can you limit your initial investment?
AVOID LONG-TERM RENTALS AND THIRD-PARTY LEASES The use of lease finance contracts to fund vehicle tracking systems was the main cause of business failure for a number of wellknown suppliers during the recent recession and credit crunch. Customers of these companies were left with long-term obligations to banks and financial institutions as a consequence. Few customers seem to realise this, but these long-term contracts are a debt obligation, taken on and underwritten by the customer, so the supplier can get paid out immediately. For example, if a customer signs a five-year lease deal for vehicle tracking on 50 vehicles at £25 per month, that amounts to an obligation to pay the bank (or other finance house) a total of £75,000. There is normally no way out of this if the tracking supplier founders or provides bad service, as the debt contract is generally with a separate institution. And yet many operators think that this is just a service agreement which can be cancelled if problems arise. When vehicle tracking was in its infancy, asset finance had a www.coachandbusweek.com
IndustryGuide_p22.indd 22
valid role to play as the systems were very expensive. However the costs have now dropped considerably and there is therefore no justification for committing a customer to pay so much through an onerous contract, as the following example demonstrates. If a customer signs a tracking deal at £25 for 60 months, that is a fixed debt commitment of £1500, for a piece of kit the supplier would be happy to sell for £250 if the customer only insisted on knowing the purchase price at the time of order. The difference of £1250 is therefore the service element of the contract, which the supplier is hoping to pocket on day one. This is not what “asset finance” was ever intended for. Service for the customer is, from this point on, entirely dependent on the goodwill and good fortune of the supplier. Quartix only offers direct rental and purchase options, which
means its customers do not need to go through third-party leasing. Its most popular package is the 12-month rental as it offers maximum flexibility and peace of mind, and only requires minimal initial investment.
MAKE SURE THERE ARE NO HIDDEN COSTS Long-term rentals also have hidden costs: if a customer signs a five-year deal and then increases his fleet size two years later, then a new five-year contract has to be signed on the additional tracking systems, meaning the customer is tied to the same supplier for a total of seven years from the start. This makes it impractical and costly to switch supplier – a situation which may continue indefinitely if the company continues to grow. Similarly if the fleet size contracts, the customer finds himself committed to paying for tracking systems he is no longer
using – for many years in some cases. Also be aware of any additional charges such as warranty or installation. All the Quartix rental options include free installation, onsite warranty and technical support which monthly charges will cover. Quartix has a transparent pricing policy too, all of which is published on its website, helping operators make an informed choice which is best adapted to their requirements.
CHOOSE A SUPPLIER WITH A GOOD CREDIT RATING “It is increasingly important for prospective customers to make sure their telematics supplier has a good credit rating, coupled with a strong balance sheet, as engaging in a contract with a financially weak provider is extremely risky,” said Andy Kirk, Sales and Marketing Director at Quartix. “Quartix’s operating profit increased by 60% to £2.9m in 2012, making us one of the most financially stable companies in the tracking sector.” Quartix added 1,400 new fleet customers during the year from a broad range of industry sectors. Organisations from both the private and public sectors chose the Quartix system, including Volvo Construction Equipment, Worcester City Council, Alton Towers, Days Contract Hire, Amaryllis Group, and Greater Manchester Police. A significant highlight of the year was the winning of a contract from LOCOG for the provision of 650 tracking systems for visiting officials and dignitaries during the Olympic and Paralympic Games of London 2012. T: 0870 013 6663 W: www.quartix.net
02/04/2013 12:14
April 3, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 23
CONTACT To advertise in future industry guides, call Victoria Schult for a features list or more details on 01733 293248, email brian.winterton@ coachandbusweek.com. For more information on providing editorial, call James Day on 01733 293244 or email james.day@coachandbusweek.com
Synectics Vandalism, criminal behaviour and fraudulent insurance claims are serious issues for bus and coach operators across the UK. Digital CCTV technology can lend a vital helping hand towards tackling these issues. Synectics Mobile Systems (SMS) is the UK’s leading supplier of bus and coach digital video recorder (DVR) systems. It has over 20 years experience in the development and installation of over 20,000 CCTV systems for major bus and coach operators across the UK. Synectics’ specialist bus and coach team has hundreds of years of combined experience of working in the industry. This knowledge, combined with Synectics’ surveillance technology, allows it to offer CCTV and telematics systems in tune with the day-to-day operational and business demands facing operators. Understanding how to get the best from your investment in
mobile digital CCTV technology is something which Synectics takes very seriously. Synectics works with the foremost suppliers of mobile DVR technology to ensure its customers obtain the very best mix of performance, reliability and value for money. As part of Synectics Group plc, Synectics Mobile Systems has access to extensive hardware and software development expertise. This expertise, in conjunction with years of bus and coach industry experience which exists within Synectics Mobile, gave rise to the
Synectics’ specialist bus & coach team have extensive experience
development of Synectics’ own proprietary DVR – the T-series range of recorders. The current range of T-800 (up to 8 channel) and T-1000 (up to 16 channel) DVRs have a proven reputation in the field, with over 6,000 units in operation with bus and coach operators nationwide. Using state of the art CCTV technology, the T1000 recorder supports between two and 16 real time H.264 video channels and four audio channels. The recorder also features Synectics patented Dual Path recording. This automatically records the last five minutes worth of footage from all cameras onto a solid-state memory SD 16GB card. “Mobile CCTV technology is constantly developing, with our customers expecting ever greater functionality at a lower cost. Innovation and continuous improvement run at the heart of our business, and we strive at Synectics Mobile to deliver the latest mobile technology which provides our customers with a
full CCTV solution that meets their needs,” commented Jeff Fail, Managing Director, Synectics Mobile Systems. “We have some exciting developments underway which, we believe, will further stretch the boundaries of current mobile CCTV technology, and we’ll be telling our customers more about these later in the year.” ‘CCTV as a Service’ is an innovative approach to CCTV for bus and coach, developed by Synectics for bus and coach operators who would rather concentrate on running their bus and coach services than managing CCTV. A combination of remote CCTV system monitoring, and Synectics’ national network of field service engineers, ‘CCTV as a Service’ means full maintenance, consistent high levels of uptime and a system which meets the customer’s exact specification. T: 01253 891222 W: www.synx.com
www.coachandbusweek.com
IndustryGuide_p23.indd 23
02/04/2013 17:32
24 | COACH & BUS WEEK | April 3, 2013
INDUSTRY
GUIDE
TO digital technology Mobile Onboard My Mobile Tickets is on course in its goal to become the de-facto mobile ticketing solution in the UK after it launched with more bus operators in recent weeks. This makes it the most popular and fastest-growing choice for transport operators up and down the country looking to offer mobile and e-ticketing to its customers. Recently, the network has expanded to allow passengers to buy tickets online and use their mobile phones as their ticket on services operated by Classic Bus North West in Blackpool, GHA Coaches in North Wales and Abellio Surrey. This is in addition to the operators already accepting Coach and Bus Week – EDITORIAL My Mobile Tickets on services throughout the country. Southampton, Hampshire, UK, 25 March 2013 My Mobile Tickets is a zerocapital investment mobile ticketing service which allows passengers toMobile An advert forisMy Tickets seen an Abellio bus mobile ticketing solution in the UK as it My Tickets onMobile course in itsasgoal toonbecome theSurrey de-facto sign up in seconds, buy their tickets launches with more bus operators in recent weeks. This makes it the most popular and fastest-growing coming weeks is its low-cost protection devices, as well up as and down online and download them directly ability to integrate directly choice for transport operators the country looking to offer mobile and e-ticketing to itswith standalone validator which, when tools to help organisations such to their mobile phone. Passengers operators’ back-end systems at customers. connected to a suitable scanning as schools and colleges to issue can also maintain a ‘mobile wallet’ real-time, and their in-house team device, can validate a mobile ticket which allows them to get tickets on- concessionary mobile tickets to is available to help with these Recently, thestudents network has expanded to allow passengers to buythe tickets and use projects their mobile as the passenger boards bus, online their en-masse. demand using an SMS text message integration at any phones level. withBus sub-second scanning and It recently partnered with Casio when they decide they want toas their ticket on services operated by Classic North West in Blackpool, GHA Coaches in North Wales instant feedback to the driver to develop an application to run to the travel, or by scanning a QR codeand at Abellio T: 08432 Surrey. This is in addition operators already accepting My Mobile Tickets899897 on services to facilitate fast boarding. The on their IT-800 and IT-9000 range the bus stop or from print media. E: contact.us@ throughout the country. validator is also WiFi-enabled, of handheld terminals which can The system allows the purchase mobileonboard.com which means scan data can be sent perform offline validation of the of practically any type of ticket, W: www.mobileonboard.com Tickets a scanning zero-capital mobile ticketing back to a central server inservice near mobile ticket.isBy the investment including season tickets, fixed My Mobile real-time bus isonline also fitted encrypted data contained within term tickets and multi-trip ‘carnet’ which allows passengers to sign up in seconds, buywhen theirthe tickets with its Beam WiFi mobilecan Internet the embedded code on tickets, with no requirement toand download them QR directly tothe their mobile phone. Passengers also system. mobile ticket, the terminal can download a native app onto themaintain a “mobile wallet” which allows them to get tickets on-demand My Mobile Tickets enables instantly tell the revenue protection phone, which means it works with SMS whether text message when they decide they want travel, or by operators to get atofoothold the ticket is valid. most modern smartphones. using anofficer scanningFurthermore, a QR code ifatthe the bus stop print into the media. emerging,The fastsystem moving terminal is or from Mobile Onboard, the company purchase of practically any typeworld of ticket, including season of mobile commerce connected online, it can download behind My Mobile Tickets, is allows the now, while complimenting photograph of theand person the also rolling out a range of simple tickets, the fixed term tickets multi-trip “carnet” tickets, with no their existing ticketingwhich methods. No it ticket was issued to for products to support its mobile requirement to download a further native app onto the phone, means additional equipment is needed, verification, and record the scan on ticketing network, including lowworks with most modern smartphones. but if required, their powerful a central server. cost fixed and handheld mobile m-commerce platform has the Also due for release in the ticket validation and revenue-
Mobile Onboard, the company behind My Mobile Tickets, is also rolling out a range of simple products to support its mobile ticketing network, including low-cost fixed and handheld mobile ticket validation and revenue-protection devices, as well as tools to help organisations such as schools and colleges to issue concessionary mobile tickets to their students en-masse.
It recently partnered with Casio to develop an application to run on their IT-800 and IT-9000 range of handheld terminals which can perform offline validation of the mobile ticket. By scanning the encrypted data contained within the embedded QR code on the mobile ticket, the terminal can instantly tell the revenue protection officer whether the ticket is valid. Furthermore, if the terminal is connected online, it can download the photograph of the person the ticket was issued to for further verification, and record the scan on a central server. Also due for release in the coming weeks is its low-cost standalone validator which, when connected to a suitable scanning device, can validate a mobile ticket as the passenger boards the bus, with sub-second scanning feedback the driver to facilitate fastproved boarding. validator is also Wi-FiSurrey enabled, Above Left: A My Mobile Tickets validatorand box.instant Above right: MobiletoOnboard’s mobile ticketing has to be The a huge success with Abellio which means scan data can be sent back to a central server in near real-time when the bus is also fitted www.coachandbusweek.comwith its Beam Wi-Fi mobile Internet system.
IndustryGuide_p24.indd 24
My Mobile Tickets enables operators to get a foothold into the emerging, fast moving world of mobile commerce now, whilst complimenting their existing ticketing methods. No additional equipment is 02/04/2013 needed, but if required, their powerful m-commerce platform has the ability to integrate directly with
12:15
681930-1081-MobileOnboard
25/3/13
17:07
Page 1
26 | COACH & BUS WEEK | April 3, 2013
INDUSTRY
GUIDE
TO digital technology Roeville The revolution in the way consumers research and book their holidays has been seismic in the coach tourism industry. Without doubt the website is the new shop window on the Digital High Street and has the potential to reach a greater number of consumers than direct marketing at a fraction of the cost. 2013 sees Roeville celebrating 20 successful years at the cutting edge of passenger reservations technology for the coach tourism industry. The company produces a range of attractive and flexible e-commerce solutions which power many of the UK’s leading coach touring brands. Roeville also offers a choice of back office reservation system, depending on the nature of the business. t28 is an off-the-shelf package which meets the needs of small to medium sized coach tour operators whereas t3 is a premium
The Roeville crew pose for the camera at Euro Bus Expo 2012 – Ken Hays, John Roe, James Brailsford, Raynor Williamson and Adam Leggot product which can be customised to ‘fit into the corners’ of larger and higher volume operators. Both products have excellent pedigrees and proven track records with many of the UK’s leading operators, plus there is an easy migration path
from t28 to t3. Operators with their own coach fleets can use the Roeville ph28 software for all their coach hire and contract reservations. This is a user-friendly and highly flexible diary based system which handles
quotations, firm bookings, driver and vehicle allocations, work ticket printing, confirmations and invoices. Roeville is renowned for having a friendly and responsive back up service and all of its customers are offered software support contracts. A new automatic product update service is available to all support contract customers, enabling companies to download the very latest versions of the t28 and ph28 products, and for them to be swiftly and automatically deployed to all users within their organisations. There is a range of purchase options for t28, t3 and ph28 to allow operators to manage their cash flows. These vary from outright purchase through interest free credit to monthly rental plans, including software, support contracts, payment card handling and web hosting. T: 01302 841333 E: sales@roeville.com W: www.roeville.com
www.coachandbusweek.com
IndustryGuide_p26.indd 26
02/04/2013 12:59
April 3, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 27
MiX Telematics A recent bus operator survey conducted by MiX Telematics has revealed an insight into current and future thinking within the industry. The first question asked was, How would you describe the outlook for bus operators in 2013? 10% were optimistic, while more than 80% said the outlook is ‘OK or poor’. In terms of the external factors impacting upon their businesses, 50% cited increasing fuel costs as the most significant, followed by the cost of compliance and increasing insurance costs. Behind these came increasing vehicle prices, the availability of finance and the effects of new legislation. When MiX Telematics asked about hybrid technology, 80% of respondents replied they have yet to invest. Asked Why not? 27% replied the investment doesn’t stack up with a further 17% saying they would need an incentive to invest.
Operators were then asked what they felt would be the best single way in which to reduce their fuel spend. Most replied that they believed an investment in fuel efficient vehicles would bring the best results, with a focus on driver development and improving driving style coming second. 38% of those surveyed report they currently use telematics systems as part of their efficiencygaining measures. This figure is set to rise during 2013, with 45% saying telematics will form part of their driver development programmes this year. Of the four out of every 10 operators already employing telematics solutions, the majority stated they are seeing positive results – although they did hedge their reply by saying gaining results through telematics is something you have to work at; telematics alone is not a ‘fit-and-forget’ solution. Significantly, not one operator described their venture into the world of telematics as a failure.
As you might expect, the majority of operators not yet using telematics cited a lack of investment capital as their primary obstacle to adoption. A similar number reported they have yet to be convinced of the potential benefits. Commenting upon the survey results, Steve Coffin, Marketing & Operations Director for MiX Telematics, said: “It is interesting to note that more respondents feel investing in fuel efficient vehicles – which we regard as a major expense – would bring about greater savings than improving driving style. Given that operators
implementing driver development programmes in conjunction with telematics solutions such as our Fleet Manager system typically report fuel savings of up to 10% – and way in excess of this in some cases – we find that view surprising to say the least. “We are naturally delighted to learn more operators are planning to introduce fleet management solutions in 2013, and would echo the view of the survey respondents who said telematics systems need to form part of a larger programme of driver development. Much of our work at MiX Telematics today involves working alongside our operators to maximise the benefits they derive from our products. As we see it, this is most certainly the way forward in terms of maximising the potential offered by telematics solutions.” T: 0121 7175360 E: info@mixtelematics.
MiX Telematics’ RIBAS system gives simple and immediate feedback
co.uk W: www.mixtelematics.com
www.coachandbusweek.com
IndustryGuide_p27.indd 27
02/04/2013 17:33
28 | COACH & BUS WEEK | April 3, 2013
INDUSTRY
GUIDE
TO DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY Actia From Actia’s Early Electronic Chassis (ECUs) in the 1990s, to today’s digital network control systems, buses are now laden with technology, from OEM systems to retrofit equipment. To make sense of this evolution, Actia’s Integrated Systems approach is designed to maximise the potential of the vehicle and to eliminate bolt-on systems and hardware duplication where possible. Indeed Actia holds a unique position as the designer and manufacturer of not only the core vehicle electrical architecture and dashboard, but also telematics, driver feedback and CCTV systems. Actia’s automotive specification Telematic Gateway Unit (TGU) sits at the heart of the Integrated Systems concept. TGU acts as a single hub for digital communication between onboard systems and the operator. From the chassis up, a wide range of data is made available 24/7, often in real-time.
Actia’s driverAID gives drivers realtime feedback while they work Eco-Fleet, Actia’s telematics service, returns this data with the objective of improving efficiency in many areas: operations, driver performance, maintenance, route optimisation and breakdown response. Drivers are encouraged to respond to the in-cab driver feedback of driverAID. The realtime driver trainer warns of harsh manoeuvring, as well as styles which have a negative impact on fuel economy such as idling and over-revving. This process on-theroad will soon be backed up by drivers having access their own
performance data online. Drivers can view their weekly score, driver MPG and event map. They will also get a feel for where they sit in a driver league table week by week, and where they can improve. The maintenance department receives reports on vehicle health, fuel economy and CCTV status, as well as access to Multi-AID remote diagnostics. Healthy vehicles return better MPG than problem ones – even with the best driver behind the wheel. A problem with an engine, HVAC or cooling system can account for as much as a 10% increase in fuel consumption. Eco-Fleet’s measured fuel, vehicle condition monitoring and remote diagnostic capabilities enable rapid identification of an underperforming vehicle, to minimise time on the road at reduced fuel economy. CCTV is another core product of the Integrated Systems range. The BOP digital video recorder (DVR) is built to withstand the vehicle environment and comes
in standard and high resolution formats. All BOP CCTV systems are capable of integration with Actia in-dash TFT screens to provide a driver’s monitor and reversing aid. Existing switchpacks (where available) may also be used rather than bolting on extra controls, and when integrated with the CANbus and a tracking device, the recordings are enhanced with the status of brakes, indicators, speed, doors and GPS location, helping to build a more complete picture of vehicle activity at any time. To complete the system, connection is available to Eco-Fleet to provide real-time CCTV incident alarm and status monitoring. Digital technology is here to stay on our buses, and Actia has synergised its capabilities to provide the ultimate integrated solution for efficiency, security and performance. T: 01686 611150 E: mail@actia.co.uk W: www.actia.co.uk
www.coachandbusweek.com
IndustryGuide_p28,29.indd 28
02/04/2013 13:01
April 3, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 29
DISTINCTIVE SYSTEMS Distinctive Systems is a supplier of software to the coaching industry. It has been established for 30 years and has supplied more than 2,000 systems to operators throughout the English speaking world. Each Distinctive product can be used independently of the others, although they all integrate seamlessly. Coach Manager is a booking system for private hire and contract work specially designed for coach and minibus companies. It offers secure handling of bookings, efficient allocation of vehicles and drivers, client confirmations, driver work tickets, invoicing, payments and statements. Coach Manager now includes Coach Manager Connect – which connects the Coach Manager booking system at over 400 of Distinctive’s clients to create the most powerful community-wide communication network the industry has ever seen. Operators
can share selected bookings with each other at the click of a button. Coach Manager Connect can broadcast a request to cover a booking to a chosen list of operators, or to the community at large, communicating directly from the source Coach Manager system straight into the target systems. When required it can target operators in a given geographical
area, without the originator needing to know who the firms are. Tour Booking System (TBS) is a reservation system for extended tours and day excursions. The software guides the user through the booking one step at a time dealing with seat allocation, accommodation choice and pick-up point selection. TBS offers real-time payment processing and automatic
Distinctive System’s Coach Manager handles bookings and payments
emailing of invoices. Vehicle Maintenance System is a VOSA-approved workshop management system specially designed for coach and bus operators. The software provides defect reporting, inspection planning, scheduled and unscheduled maintenance activity management, job cards, history recording and workshop control. Distinctive’s website includes a price calculator which covers both traditional outright purchase options as well as the company’s recently introduced alternative of annual rental for any version of its systems. Monthly rental pricing is calculated at 2% of software list price, plus an additional 1.25% for software maintenance, making a total of 3.25%. The minimum rental period is 24 months. T: 01904 692269 E: sales@distinctivesystems.com. W: www.distinctive-systems. com
www.coachandbusweek.com
IndustryGuide_p28,29.indd 29
02/04/2013 13:01
30 | COACH & BUS WEEK | April 3, 2013
INDUSTRY
GUIDE
TO DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY
Icomera’s WiFi is featured on the Stagecoach-owned Oxford Tube commuter route into London
ICOMERA Icomera claims to be the world’s leading provider of cellular broadband gateways, offering WiFi for public and private transport passengers, GPS vehicle tracking and live on-board CCTV connectivity. Offering services in over 26 countries, Icomera has gained a top reputation with a proven track record selling around the world which has established it as the market leader. With a real focus on new products and ongoing development, Icomera is looking to offer new and existing customers the tools to improve their business. Availability of high speed broadband connections on vehicles opens a host of new possibilities for transport operators. Icomera’s award-winning range of products, including its new M300 series boxes, are simple to install, sleek enough to fit in to tight areas while also being rugged and durable enough to withstand the rigours of travel, usage and handling. The technology bridges wide area 3G and 4G cellular networks with on-board WiFi and Ethernet access. As well as internet connectivity this also
allows operators to track the vehicle’s routing and position and watch live CCTV feeds while the vehicle is in transit. These are the main features, but with these alone major concerns like security, response times to incidents, safety, schedule adherence and passenger satisfaction are improved significantly. As the company improves and develops its products and technology ever improves, the opportunities for bus and coach providers also grows. Products can support a number of passenger and operational applications designed to increase revenue and save costs. From simple marketing opportunities to more technical vehicle-to-vehicle data, operators are now realising there is a great
deal more to WiFi systems than simply allowing passengers to check their emails. However, it cannot be forgotten that allowing passengers free access to an internet connection to do this or to surf the web while travelling has now become somewhat of a necessity in modern day society. Smartphones represent the majority of the mobile market and as phone technology expands so does the level of people wanting to use them wherever they may be. Commuters in particular now rely on such services, allowing them the opportunity to do work outside of the office. For longer journey times there is an entertainment factor for passengers to consider and a free internet connection is a
Icomera’s M300 series boxes are robust and designed to fit in tight spaces
contributing factor in people’s decision making on choice of carrier. Providers which do offer free WiFi have had remarkable feedback and the service has proved immensely popular. It is possible to get this feedback directly through the service too which means instantly available data, all of which can be accessed from any location. Companies thrive on this type of information and it is now able to be gained through far more efficient and reliable methods than in the past. Whether customers are looking to simply purchase boxes or require a full fitting and management service, Icomera can cover all requirements. Adding to this, Icomera has a free 30-day trial available to all new customers, with absolutely no commitment to continue with the service after this point. Established in 1999, Icomera is headquartered in Sweden, with offices in Kent in the United Kingdom, and channel partners worldwide. T: 0870 446 0461 E: sales@icomera.com W: www.icomera.com
www.coachandbusweek.com
IndustryGuide_p30.indd 30
02/04/2013 12:59
p00_CBW_1081 Icomera
25/3/13
15:25
Page 1
32 | COACH & BUS WEEK | April 3, 2013
INDUSTRY
GUIDE
TO DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY Alcolock GB In 2011, 5% of all road casualties occurred when someone was driving over the legal alcohol limit. No operator would want its drivers contributing to this statistic. Installing the Alcolock GB breath alcohol testing device can ensure those behind the wheel are not only below the limit but also not impaired by alcohol. The Alcolock GB DS-10 Breathalyser Immobiliser System is not just a breathalyser, however. It is a tethered alcohol device which is connected directly to an immobiliser which prevents any driver from starting the vehicle if a breath sample is over a preset alcohol limit. In the event it detects an excessive alcohol reading, the vehicle will become immobilised. If the sample is under the preset limit the vehicle will start and can be operated in the usual way. Unlike other similar devices the unit can be linked to mobile phone
technology which allows operators to be made aware of and react instantly to positive tests allowing them to react accordingly. This system is also supported by remote access to the Alcolock GB dedicated website which clearly identifies the vehicle, date, time and alcohol figure recorded. It is also supported by an email for further notification. This site is username and password protected. The system is very simple to operate and also reliable. It has a provision for a rolling pin number activated override in the case of emergency, and a ‘time out’ which allows the driver to make a short break without taking a further test. But like all procedures, these can be changed to meet specific requirements. The company prides itself in being able to work with its clients to tailor any installation to meet their individual requirements, and this in most cases changes from one business to another. The firm has a fully trained team
of engineers which specialise in this business. All installations are completed to a very high standard and Alcolock GB supports this by giving equal warranty on both product and installation. Installations can be completed at operators’ premises which take
David Whittock, Director at Alcolock GB, at the Euro Bus Expo 2012
around two hours for each vehicle. Alcolock GB support does not stop here; its team is always on hand for help and advice and offers a guaranteed 48hr response time from its engineers if required. It supplies all consumables, such as mouthpieces or any spares firms may require. All breathalysers require calibration. Alcolock GB arranges this by making arrangements with the operator’s transport department. Alcolock GB engineers carry identification, risk assessments and hi-viz clothing. It also carries out its own vehicle audit before and after every job attended, however small. Alcolock GB is a dedicated team offering a one stop shop. Its role in life is to take the stress out of the lives of operators. It makes sense to keep businesses safe from any consequences of Drink Driving. T: 01761 408159 E: info@alcolockgb.com W: www.alcolockgb.com
www.coachandbusweek.com
IndustryGuide_p32,33.indd 32
02/04/2013 17:35
April 3, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 33
Vix Technology Vix Technology is a global provider of integrated transit and mobility systems making it easy for people to use and pay for transport, so more people will use it. Vix delivers fare management, fleet management and passenger information solutions for transport providers, to transform the way people connect and commute. Vix Technology understands operators want to help passengers travel in the simplest, most effective way. This is why Vix brings together expertise across four key areas (Fare Management, Fleet Management, Passenger Information, and Service, Operations & Maintenance) in order to provide mobility solutions. On the surface, the company is about helping people use and pay for public transport. But ultimately, it’s about transforming lives. For Vix, it’s all about delivering a seamless travel experience – helping people get to where
Vix Technology provided systems on the Cambridgeshire Guided Busway they need to, when they need to, however they need to. From design to maintenance, Vix Technology can do it all. It provides solutions using best of class technologies which are not limited by proprietary or closed systems. The result is greater flexibility and cost benefits. Vix takes pride as a systems integrator in being able to work with all types of technology
to deliver solutions for its clients. This allows its customers to take advantage of emerging technology and evolve their systems ahead of the rest. Vix Technology aims to not just transport, but to transform. Whether it’s by train, tram, bus, car, ferry or bike – Vix wants commuters headed towards a brighter future. It wants access
to be more affordable, reliable and efficient. The company wants to help reduce pollution and congestion and to make a real impact on carbon reduction. It wants local economies to grow; and education and employment to prosper. A prime example of Vix Technology’s work with the industry is the wide variety of products and services provided to support the efficient operation of the Cambridgeshire Guided Busway. These include advanced bus priority systems at traffic signals to help ensure a fast service for users, the provision of real-time information on displays placed at bus stops and at key points around the city centre as well as Smartenabled ticket machines to enable an ITSO compliant smartcard scheme to provide flexibility when boarding the bus. T: 01223 728 700 W: www.vixtechnology. com/transit-and-mobility
www.coachandbusweek.com
IndustryGuide_p32,33.indd 33
02/04/2013 17:35
34 | COACH & BUS WEEK | April 3, 2013
INDUSTRY
GUIDE
TO DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY McKenna Brothers Greater Manchester-based McKenna Brothers is a trusted and popular supplier of destination and display signage. Established in 1978, it offers all forms of onboard destination displays ranging from the traditional printed blind right through to state of the art onboard TFT screen. McKenna Brothers partner Mobitec has recently become part of the Luminator Technology Group, joining a group of companies specialising in electronic information systems. With its integration into the Luminator Technology Group, Mobitec and its sister company Twin Vision, which is based in the United States, now belong to a group of companies which operate on a global scale. The Luminator Technology Group includes Luminator, Lawo and Focon, three companies which are known for their passenger information and lighting systems. The technologies developed by
McKenna Bros’ full onboard mobiscreen passenger info system these companies are used in buses, trains and airplanes around the world. Derek Dawson, MD of the Middleton firm took up the story: “Mobitec is now part of the world’s biggest destination sign manufacturer in the world. While there will be some rationalisation of signs, we are shortly going to unveil a new low-weight low power consumption LED destination sign. “The cost of lighting signs on a vehicle has been calculated by an independent third party.
The figures have been based on a 10-year lifetime, with average operating hours of 40,000 over that period. The research has shown the new sign will deliver a total saving of about 40% on the amount of fuel required for power the signs over the lifetime of the vehicle. The weight and power required have both been slashed by 20%. “Going to launch it sometime in June. We’ve been talking to the coach builders and big groups about the new product – they’re quite interested. With the cost of fuel on the up, operators are doing all they can to save every last little drop. If you reduce the power required by the ancillaries, fuel consumption will also fall, so we’ve done something about it.” Another new development is Mobitec’s ability to offer content and media management via remote update. It can also diagnose destination signs and has the ability to communicate instant messages, should the need arise.
This might include for example, the diversion of a route owing to an incident – which can be done from the comfort of the garage traffic office. “It’s something we’re looking to expand in the coming months,” continued Derek. “We’re also now offering larger screens for onboard use. Operators can offer commercial advertising which can be triggered at particular points along a route using GPS. This will be particularly useful on longer distance routes.” McKenna has also worked closely with Guide Dogs for the Blind on next stop announcement technology. “It’s something we’re heavily involved in and have offered it to a number of different bus companies. Newport Transport, Ipswich and Network Warrington have introduced our system,” added Derek. T: 0161 655 3244 W: www.mckenna brothers.co.uk
www.coachandbusweek.com
IndustryGuide_p34,35.indd 34
02/04/2013 13:05
April 3, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 35
TransMach TransMach Systems is a leading ticketing solution provider for independent bus and coach operators. TransMach offers end to end ticketing systems, from specifying, installing and providing personal help desk support. As specialists in ticketing, TransMach can build the ticketing system to suit unique requirements. TransMach is a single point of contact for fare collection and supply of consumables. As Parkeon’s authorised distributor for the Wayfarer 200, TransMach offers the Wayfarer 200 ITSO system to independent bus operators at an affordable cost and provide quality service and personal help desk support. The Wayfarer 200 ticketing system is ITSO v2.1.4 and RTIG 1.1 certified and meets the requirements set by the local authorities. The Wayfarer 200 is an all-in-one and driver friendly ticket machine. The comprehensive back-office
software suite gives full flexibility to bus operators. By acquiring the Wayfarer 200 ticketing system, operators can take advantage of the BSOG uplift. As CASIO’s authorised partner, TransMach offers the CASIO IT9000 all-in-one portable device for satellite tracking, journey planner, paper tickets, smart cards, validating web booking and accepting Chip & Pin card payments. The IT-9000 features a lithium-ion battery (operating period - 20hours and more), integrated high speed thermal printer, NFC (smart card) reader and writer, barcode reader with high speed and accuracy, GPS and HSDPA – capable 3G with high speed data transfer and high memory capacity. Transmach offers the IT-9000 with a complete bespoke solution with web based back-office system. T: 020 8861 1946 E: sales@transmach.co.uk W: www.transmach.co.uk
Features List 2013 Below is the complete list of this year’s CBW issues showing current scheduled dates for Industry Guides. Dates are subject to change. Issue
Issue Date
1068 January 2 1069 January 9 1070 January 16 1071 January 23 1072 January 30 1073 February 6 1074 February 13 1075 February 20 1076 February 27 1077 March 6 1078 March13 1079 March 20 1080 March 27 1081 April 3 1082 April 10 1083 April 17 1084 April 24 1085 May 1 1086 May 8 1087 May 15 1088 May 22 1089 May 39 1090 June 5 1091 June 12 1092 June 19 1093 June 26 1094 July 3 1095 July 10 1096 July 17 1097 July 24 1098 July 31 1099 August 7 1100 August 14 1101 August 21 1102 August 28 1103 September 4 1104 September 11 1105 September 18 1106 September 25 1107 October 2 1108 October 9 1109 October 16 1110 October 23 1111 October 30 1112 November 6 1113 November 13 1114 November 20 1115 November 27 1116 December 4 1117 December 11 1118 December 18
Product Focus Feature Passenger Comfort & Entertainment Vehicle Presentation Telematics
Training & Safety Engines & Transmissions Seating, Flooring & Interiors
Digital Technology Rental, Leasing & Finance Garage Equipment Tachographs Fuel Management & Emission Control Ticketing & Cash Handling
Repairs & Refurbishment Training & Safety Glazing & Entry Systems Uniforms & Workwear Vehicle Presentation Engines & Transmissions
Security & Insurance Digital Technology Garage Equipment Seating, Flooring & Interiors Ticketing & Cash Handling Repairs & Refurbishment Fuel Management & Emission Control
CONTACTS Advertising & Marketing Manager Ian Gillis 01733 293484 ian.gillis@coachandbusweek.com
Advertising Executive Brian Winterton 01733 293488 brian.winterton@coachandbusweek.com www.coachandbusweek.com
IndustryGuide_p34,35.indd 35
02/04/2013 13:05