Coach and Bus Week : Issue 1117

Scottish and Midlands Customer focus as books reviewed p26 Volvo talks Euro 6 p18

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Wednesday December 11, 2013 Issue 1117 | £2.95 www.coachandbusweek.com

News Focus

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Select Committee report on accessibility

Putting a shine on the past p10

Traffilog on telematics 001_CBW1117_Cover.indd 1

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Why Movember grows each year

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xxxxx Arriva’s new Sapphire

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THIS WEEK Coach & Bus Week, First Floor, 3 The Office Village, Cygnet Park, Forder Way, Hampton, Peterborough PE7 8GX Switchboard 01733 293240 Fax 0845 280 2927 Web www.coachandbusweek.com Distributed by COMAG

EDITORIAL Publisher Jonathan Taylor 01733 293240 jonathan.taylor@coachandbusweek.com Editor Gareth Evans 01733 293243 gareth.evans@coachandbusweek.com Features Editor Andrew Izatt 01733 293482 andrew.izatt@coachandbusweek.com Technical & Minibus Editor Martin Cole 01733 293245, 07597 179030 martin.cole@coachandbusweek.com Digital Editor James Day 01733 293244 james.day@coachandbusweek.com Art Director Ian Blaza Contributors Ray Wilkes, Jonathan Bray, Richard Charnley, Alan Payling

ADVERTISING, MARKETING & EVENTS Advertising & Marketing Manager Ian Gillis 01733 293484 ian.gillis@coachandbusweek.com Coach & Bus Market Advertising Manager Jade Cassidy 01733 293247 jade.cassidy@coachandbusweek.com Senior Sales Executive Caroline Barnes 01733 293480 caroline.barnes@coachandbusweek.com Advertising Sales Executive Brodiee Neumann 01733 293488 brodiee.neumann@coachandbusweek.com

AV is a must

T

his week the Transport Select Committee published the Government’s response to its ‘Access to transport for disabled people’ report. Examining the relevant sections for our industry, there was no indication that the Government would be following any of the reports recommendations in the near future, something which drew criticism from a number campaigners. .

Again, Audio-Visual (AV) technology was a hot topic.

The Government said it did not intend to legislate to make AV systems on buses mandatory, and the technology did not present a solid business case for operators, particularly in the current economic climate.

My own experiences with AV technology in London de�initely sold the concept to me, though. It meant I could board a bus going to a place I had never been to through an area I wasn’t familiar with and still be sure I would know when to alight. Most importantly, if I hadn’t known beforehand the bus carried AV, I wouldn’t have gone anywhere near it – I would have used the underground, which has announcements and station signs, or a taxi which I knew would take me to the door without any hassle.

I didn’t need to rely on a driver who has more than enough

CONTENTS

to think about already, nor did I have to learn all the local landmarks to get my bearings. There was no risk of overshooting or undershooting the stop and having to walk several hundred yards extra – something which is no trivial matter for many passengers with a bus pass. I was also free to indulge in a book, mobile game or free WiFi where provided if so desired, as I could rely on the announcement telling me when my stop was approaching.

With all these bene�its for someone like me who is lucky enough to have perfect vision and adequate hearing, this technology must be an absolute godsend to anyone partially sighted or partially deaf. It puts services with it in a completely different class and the only reason the business case isn’t getting through, in my view, is because passengers still aren’t expecting it – it’s still a pleasant surprise.

If next stop announcements were widespread enough that passengers knew it was on most services and they could reliably get to where they needed to on a bus, even when not knowing the route like the back of their hand, passenger numbers could go through the roof.

James Day Digital Editor

Advertising Production June Barnard 01473 858761 june@adsproduction.co.uk

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SUBSCRIPTIONS & CIRCULATION

The latest from across the coach and bus industry at home & abroad

16

New titles about West Coast Motors and Midland Red

28

All the latest vehicle deliveries in operators’ yards across the country

What’s happening across the country’s regions. Plus Events Diary

18

Your thoughts and opinions. Plus social media roundup

30

A look at suppliers of fuel management and emission control

Planning with operator support is the solution, says Volvo’s sales team

22

How operators have been raising money with moustaches

36

A lighthearted look at the industry, plus Office Diary column

Customer driven telematics options from Traffilog in the UK

EnsignBus’ ex-London Transport Leyland at Vintage Running Day

All the latest people moves from across the industry

Subscriptions & Circulation Manager Samantha Noble 01733 293480 samantha.noble@coachandbusweek.com Subscriptions Executive Lorraine Jackson 01733 293483 lorraine.jackson@coachandbusweek.com Annual subscription rate for 51 issues: UK £85, Europe/Eire £140, USA and RoW £295 ONLINE £44.95 Cover picture John Lidstone www.coachandbusweek.com ISSN: 1351-3877 © 2013 Coach and Bus Week Ltd. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form or system or in any means without the written permission of the directors. This is considered a breach of copyright and action will be taken where this occurs. This magazine must not be lent, sold, hired or otherwise disposed of in a mutilated condition or in any authorised cover by way, or by trade, or annexed to any publication or advertising matter without first obtaining written permission from the directors.

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

News

Regional News

Volvo at Euro 6

Supplier Profile

Book Reviews Inbox

Movember special Big Picture

Deliveries

40

Industry Guide

68

Last Stop

70

People

HASSLE-FREE DRIVERS? wts.co.uk l 0845 8940844 We keep your wheels turning while your drivers are resting

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Driver CPC Training FULLY INCLUSIVE. NO HIDDEN COSTS

December 11 , 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 3 09/12/2013 21:12

NEWS B R I E F LY l A CHOIR which is currently fundraising to take its members to a pan-European choral festival in Ireland has received a welcome boost to its coffers thanks to First in West of England. The company has donated £500 through its charity and sponsorship committee towards the Sing Out Bristol choirs fundraising totals, taking them a step closer to being able to attend the Various Voices event which is taking place in Dublin between June 13 and 16, 2014. Sing Out Bristol choir member Nicky Williams explained: “I’ve been a member of the choir for about nine months and I find it incredibly rewarding. If offers me a break and some much needed relaxation from my day job working as a staff manager for First West of England in the Hengrove depot. We are thrilled that First has been able to donate £500 towards our fundraising totals - it’s very much appreciated and has put us well on the road towards our totals.” l FUEL MANAGEMENT SPECIALIST, Triscan Systems Ltd has acquired control of Bristolbased DataTrack Fuel Systems Ltd. Triscan’s Managing Director, David Lamont, said: “This will be a powerful partnership in the market. The two companies will be run on an independent basis and continue to build on their individual strengths.

The synergies of this move are commercially attractive and co-operation on providing service in the field will enable significant benefits to be passed on to our customers.”

Founder of DataTrack , Richard Stubbs, is standing down from his role as Managing Director although will remain as an advisor for a short period.

He said: “I am delighted that having started the Company over twenty years ago, it has now become part of the leading force in the delivery of fuel management in the UK and Europe. I wish the team every success.” l FROM JANUARY 2014, the ATF lane at Pulhams of Bourton will be open Monday, Tuesday and Thursday. Pit Fees will increase from January.

Sapphire launched in the North East Last of the four pilot Sapphire routes see the introduction of new buses for the first time Arriva North East has launched the Sapphire upgrade of route 7 between Darlington and Durham via Newton Aycliffe and Chilton and Ferryhill. The 11 new Wrightbusbodied VDL SB200s were officially unveiled at Walworth Castle where guests were treated to a special firework and lighting display.

All of the buses, representing an investment of £1.8m are equipped with power points to charge phones and lap-tops, free WiFi, audio visual facilities and seating features designed to provide extra comfort for customers.

Arriva North East is one of only four Arriva companies in the UK to get Sapphire buses with a tailored premium specification and the first to use new vehicles. Other Sapphire routes used refurbished buses.

Slightly different specifications each time are designed to test different markets around the country.

Arriva North East is also the first to launch live service information on its Arriva Bus app for a Sapphire route. The app will allow customers to track exactly where their bus is and help them plan their travel in a much more convenient way.

At the event a commemorative brochure #fitforroyalty showed all the on board features being used by a very special passenger, ‘Queen Elizabeth’, well, almost, and ‘their’ grandson.

Nick Knox, Area Managing Director for Arriva North East, said: “We’re delighted to be bringing

the Sapphire brand to Durham and Darlington and we’re so excited to be announcing further investment into the local area. We have now invested nearly £7m in 2013, including the introduction of the gas buses.

“The Sapphire service will offer customers a new and improved experience, we’re confident that customers will be delighted with the enhancements and we will be looking forward to receiving their feedback over the coming months.”

CEO and Managing Director Jan Aichinger has moved to take another position within the industry and as a result will no longer be involved in the operational business at Coventrybased EvoBus UK. “We have started the search for his successor and will make an announcement once that process is complete,” said Mike Beagrie. “In the meanwhile I will be taking on the role of Interim CEO alongside my responsibilities for the Coach business.

“We would also like to take this opportunity to announce further

structural changes within our organisation which strengthen our team and build on the growth we have achieved this year. Marcus Watts will move from his current role as Director Aftersales to assume responsibility as Director Mercedes-Benz Bus Sales and Andy Howes will become our new Director Aftersales.

“With 2013 coming to a successful close, we are ready to enter 2014 with our great new product line up, including the new Mercedes-Benz Citaro K and recently launched Mercedes-Benz Tourismo M, both of which have

been very well received. Initial feedback on our new Euro 6 Engines is that we have definitely ‘hit the mark’ with an efficient, cost effective solution to fully meet your needs for the future.

Andrew Allsop retired from his role as Director of Mercedes-Benz Sales at the end of October so that he could undertake a cycling expedition across New Zealand.

“I’m ready for a new challenge and a fresh perspective,” he said at the time. “I will therefore be leaving the firm on good terms. I’m taking time out to do some things I have wanted to do for years.”

EvoBus UK: Changes in top management

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Firework and lighting display launch for Arriva’s latest Sapphire route

www.coachandbusweek.com

09/12/2013 21:03

Oxford Park and Ride celebrates its 40th anniversary Business leaders in Oxford have praised the city’s innovative Park and Ride Bus network as the ground breaking service celebrates its 40 birthday this weekend.

The first service ran from Redbridge to the City Centre in 1973, taking Christmas shoppers into the stores without worrying about parking. Phil Southall, Oxford Bus Company’s

Operations Director, said: “We are proud to be celebrating such an important anniversary but our Park and Ride network is also about the future and the continuing prosperity of Oxford.

“Recently, we invested over £2m in a fleet of green electric hybrid buses so the P&R network can be as environmentally friendly as possible. We look forward to many more years at the heart of

Judge calls for end to wheelchair vs buggy dispute According to an article in The Telegraph, one of the most senior judges in Britain has ruled that the Appeal Court needs to intervene in a long running dispute over whether wheelchair users or pushchair users should have priority on buses.

The issue has been referred to the Court of Appeal after a long running dispute between passengers and bus companies, and after two court cases resulted in opposite verdicts.

Lord Justice Briggs has ruled that two cases – one finding in favour of a wheelchair user and another in favour of a mother with a young baby in a pushchair – should now be heard at the Court of Appeal at the same time.

The judge has allowed Jane Elliott, a wheelchair user, permission to appeal after she lost her discrimination claim against Arriva North East. The 59-year-old was denied compensation after she told judges she was humiliated when she couldn’t get on a bus in Darlington in August 2011 because a woman with a young baby refused

DRIVING LIC

ENCE

Oxford’s economic success.

“It’s not just the economy where we’ve made a huge difference.

Our green buses ensure we’ve made a major impact on air quality in Oxford. We were the first bus company to operate its P&R network with state of the art electric hybrid buses. We recently unveiled a banner, fitted to all our buses, backing the Low Emission Zone that comes

into force at the end of the year.

We’ve been leading the way in Oxford on environmentally sensitive transport for nearly twenty years. In the last five years we’ve invested over £15m in the greenest vehicles the most environmentally friendly vehicles available.”

In Oxford there are now bus services to five Park and Ride car parks.

Bus and coach firms: Euro 6 means AdBlue for everyone

to move the pushchair on two occasions.

During the hearing Judge Peter Bowers ruled that Mrs Elliott had not suffered a significant disadvantage and said that the first come first served policy of the company was a reasonable adjustment.

In a separate case Doug Paulley, from Wetherby won £5,500 in damages against First Group after a judge ruled the company should have taken measures to ensure he wasn’t at a disadvantage when he tried to get on a bus and a mother with a pushchair refused to move it.

In the case Judge Paul Isaacs said it had been Parliament’s decision to “give protection to disabled wheelchair users and not to nondisabled mothers with buggies.”

Both Mrs Elliott and First are challenging the rulings in their respective cases.

Each case involved mothers travelling on buses with very young sleeping babies who didn’t want to move them for fear of waking them at the time.

The Fuelcard People’s Marketing Manager, Steve Clarke, has issued a reminder to PCV operators saying the January arrival of Euro 6 means having to think about AdBlue.

He said, “Many buses and coaches already need AdBlue, but Euro 6’s tighter emissions standards mean it will be unavoidable with new vehicles.

Operators need to consider the most efficient way of procuring AdBlue.”

AdBlue is an aqueous solution of urea that is injected into the selective catalytic reduction (SCR) exhaust systems used with larger diesel engines. It reduces harmful NOx emissions, converting them into nitrogen and water. NOx emissions can be further reduced by exhaust gas recirculation, but not all coaches and buses have such technology.

Steve Clarke warns exhaust additives should not be taken for granted. He said, “Genuine AdBlue is based on urea manufactured to ISO 22241, which may not be the

case with cheaper alternatives. You get what you pay for and any initial saving might prove to be a false economy. We recommend PCV operators to buy the real thing, topping up their tanks when they refuel so that they can use their normal fuel cards. Unfortunately, however, not all fuel cards can be used for AdBlue purchase.”

Operators are advised to check if their fuel cards cover AdBlue.

This removes unnecessary administration, because there is no need to collect and process receipts. If a firm has the right fuel card, AdBlue will appear as an item on their normal weekly invoice. Apart from the simplicity and lack of paperwork, the interval between topping up and payment will mean up to two weeks’ interest-free credit.

“It is easy to check whether a fuel card is valid for AdBlue,” said Steve Clarke. “Just ring your dedicated account manager and ask them.

If the answer is, ‘No,’ then you need to re-consider your fuel card choice.”

Driver Licence Checks

If you would like further information please call 01543 897505 or visit www.lloydmorgangroup.co.uk

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December 11, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 5 09/12/2013 21:03

NEWS › BUSES B R I E F LY l MEMBERS OF CAMBRIDGESHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL’S cabinet have agreed that bus lanes should be enforced using cameras.

From next summer, drivers will be fined £60 if they block the routes, in a bid to keep public transport flowing, improve safety for cyclists, and to maintain a clear way for emergency services. The penalty would be halved to £30 if it is paid within a fortnight. l ARRIVA THE SHIRES is offering half-price fares for adults (now £1 return) and free travel for accompanied children on its Milton Keynes Park & Ride service throughout December. The Platinum 300 Service runs seven days a week from the Coachway by Junction 14 of the M1. Arriva’s Regional Publicity Manager, Richard Lewis, said: “As the buses are fitted with free WiFi, there’s even the opportunity to do a bit of online shopping during the journey or to catch up with emails or chat with friends to while away the short journey time.” For more details, visit www.mkparkandride.co.uk. l NORFOLK GREEN has warned Twitter users to be aware of fake accounts which purport to represent the respected bus operator. In a statement, the award-winning Kings Lynn-based firm said: “We would like to remind you that the twitter accounts which purport to be the Coasthopper are not connected to Norfolk Green or Coasthopper and that if you do have any enquiries to either contact us by phone on 01553 776980 or via e-mail on enquiries@norfolkgreen.co.uk or enquiries@coasthopper. co.uk.” l SPECIAL BUS SERVICES will run in Sheffield on Boxing Day and New Year’s Day – for a festive fare of just £1 per journey. The First and Stagecoach services, run as part of Sheffield Bus Partnership and funded by the city Council, will operate on most key routes between 0800 and 1730hrs. It will be the sixth year the council has funded the special services. Most routes will operate a Saturday service.

Stagecoach MD’s fury as Cambridge P&R parking fee imposed Council claims it is in its best interests to run the site itself, but MD Andy Campbell claims the site is very poorly managed Motorists will have to pay to park and ride if they catch the bus into Cambridge from January, after councillors rejected a deal with Stagecoach.

The £1 parking fee will be introduced at the five park and ride sites on the edge of the city, in addition to the bus fare, to cover annual running costs of more than £1m.

Cambridgeshire County Council’s cabinet approved the charge after they rejected Stagecoach East’s offer to take on the running of the sites.

Andy Campbell, the respected Managing Director of Stagecoach East, claimed passengers trapped inside the toilet for three-and-ahalf hours is one example of the local authority’s poor management of Cambridge’s park and ride sites.

He said a couple were marooned at the Milton Park and Ride

between 1830 and 2200hrs one evening, adding he had received many complaints about the way the sites were run.

Nobody at the council could be found to open the facility and the pair only avoided an uncomfortable night trying to keep warm in the toilets because he was alerted on his personal phone.

Andy said the parking charge would have a severe impact on passenger numbers, but he was baffled as to why the council would turn down the chance to save £1m a year.

Stagecoach made the offer on the condition the council would waive the £250,000 the firm currently pays a year to run its services there.

He said: “I don’t want customers to have to pay to park on top of paying for the bus and what I think will happen is I will lose a significant number of customers.

“That’s the reason why I made the offer. I wasn’t doing it for philanthropic reasons, it’s a business decision.

“I would be better off paying to manage the site because it would not cost me any more than what I would lose in customers if this parking charge went ahead.”

Andy said he believes the percentage of passengers that would shirk the park and ride would be more than the council’s 5% estimate.

He added: “I don’t think they run them very well. I think that is clear from the number of complaints we have received about it being closed and from the couple being locked in for three-and-a-half hours.”

The county council claimed the offer did not represent a ‘good deal overall’ for the authority – partly because of fears it would limit its ability to make extra money on the sites and would restrict the services offered to a single operator.

Cllr Tony Orgee, who represents Sawston, said: “Although it’s an interesting offer, it does fall short of what is required and it’s in our own best interests to continue running the sites ourselves.”

First launches 41 new Streetlites in Sheffield First in SouthYorkshire has launched 41 Wrightbus Door Forward StreetLites for service in Sheffield and Rotherham, representing an impressive £6m investment.

First has committed to replace half its 280-strong Sheffield fleet by 2017 as it invests millions of pounds in a new generation of what it calls ‘cleaner smarter vehicles.’

The new buses have been allocated to routes 52 (Woodhouse to Hillsborough), 69 (Rotherham to Sheffield) and 76 (Low Edges to Meadowbank). Over the last 12 months, First has introduced a range of service improvements, in areas such as vehicle reliability and punctuality, which have driven up customer satisfaction and attracted more people onto the bus. First has also worked as part of the UK Bus Awards-winning Sheffield Bus Partnership with Sheffield City Council and South Yorkshire Passenger Transport Executive (SYPTE) to improve the customer experience on buses.

Ben Gilligan, Managing Director for First in South Yorkshire, said: “These new buses are tremendous

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1948

The year Morse Coaches of Sheriff Hutton was founded

The official launch took place on The Moor on Sunday news for customers and gives them a number of reasons to use our services. Our passengers have been asking for WiFi access for a while now and we are more than happy to install this on our buses.

“Compared to same period last year, we’ve seen impressive passenger growth on services in Sheffield – a rise of 9% between April and September.”

SYPTE Deputy Interim Director General, David Young, said: “Sheffield Bus Partnership is taking great strides in improving the city’s buses for customers. We welcome this latest investment to enhance Sheffield’s bus fleet, which will improve customer comfort, contributing to the Partnership’s aim of improving Sheffield’s bus offer.” www.coachandbusweek.com

09/12/2013 19:13

1,650

The number of NX West Midlands buses to have Traffilog equipped in 2007

10,000

Free seats which Megabus is giving away in early 2014

SHARE WATCH Industry share prices at the close of the Stock Exchange on Monday, December 2. National Express saw the greatest proportional rise, while Optare saw the greatest proportional drop.

Most figures obtained from www.iii.co.uk

418.30p

Price: Year High: 471.00p Year Low: 324.70p

116.55p

Price: Year High: 183.03p Year Low: 90.30p

1622.50p

Price: Year High: 1746.40p Year Low: 1235.00p

261.65p

Price: Year High: 277.50p Year Low: 176.70p

Stagecoach offered to take over running of the city’s P&R sites if a £250,000 annual fee was waived

Edinburgh agrees �ive-year joint bus stance at airport Edinburgh City Council is due to sign a new agreement this week for a dedicated bus stance to be kept at the airport until November 2018.

According to a report in The Scotsman, Lothian Buses’ pick-up and drop-off point serving the popular 24-hour Airlink express service and the number 35 bus is being secured for �ive years. Airlink operates on a 10-minute frequency for most of the day. Many have predicted the introduction of a tram link would have a detrimental effect on what has been a highly successful service provided by Lothian Buses.

Edinburgh Pentlands MSP Gordon MacDonald believes passenger numbers will drop substantially on Airlink, particularly in the short-term as travellers embraced the ‘novelty value’ of the trams when they start running from May. He said: “If this turns out to be a long-term reduction in bus passengers on this route then this could result in the frequency of 10 minutes being reviewed on service 100.

“A reduction in the airport route

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– a key service for supporting the network – could result in an increased share of overheads being borne by less pro�itable routes.

“This concern is not new and is one of the reasons why the SNP was opposed to the introduction of trams. We have a tram route which is not expected to break even for the �irst 10 years, attracting revenue from the bus company, which in turn will have to meet its costs from reduced income.

“It’s a dif�icult balancing act for the new body, Transport for Edinburgh, to deal with and one which may only be resolved in the long-term by either increasing the passenger numbers, raising fares or cutting the service.”

Passengers will have the option of taking either a tram or bus into Edinburgh’s city centre from the airport’s new transport interchange. City of�icials say the tram will offer passengers a choice when travelling between Edinburgh and the airport – although its route virtually mirrors that of the Airlink for much of the eight-mile journey.

City transport convener Lesley Hinds said bus and tram

services had been developed to “complement each other,” adding: “The Airlink bus service and the tram will give choice to passengers travelling to and from Edinburgh Airport.”

It is expected the tram will be given some extreme publicity and strong marketing when it is launched in May 2014. Having spent £776m of taxpayers money on something completely unnecessary, they will now be extremely keen to recoup some of the investment.

The council is setting aside up to £3.2m a year to cover initial startup costs and operational losses.

Passengers travelling to Edinburgh Airport by tram will pay a premium fare of £4.50 – £1 more than a bus ticket.

The cost of a £7.50 return ticket to the terminal from the city centre will also work out £1.50 more than the Airlink bus service.

Trams are expected to complete a one-way journey in 33 minutes – while buses are subject to changing traf�ic conditions.

Tram and bus tickets for journeys within the city are both priced at £1.50.

364.95p

Price: Year High: 369.80p Year Low: 284.70p

0.225p

Price: Year High: 0.65p Year Low: 0.21p

55.50p

Price: Year High: 60.00p Year Low: 42.00p

600.00p

Price: Year High: 625.00p Year Low: 280.00p

7.38p

Price: Year High: 16.50p Year Low: 4.65p

-7.20 on last week

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+2.80 on last week

-0.025 on last week

0.00 on last week

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FTSE 100

6,552

Index: Year High: 6,840 Year Low: 5,867

-53

on last week

December 11, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 7 09/12/2013 19:13

NEWS › BUSES RO A D WATC H n BRIDGE SAFETY IMPROVEMENTS and maintenance on the M5 near Gloucester start at the beginning of January. The work, which will continue until March 2015, takes place between junctions 10 and 12. It includes a deck replacement, resurfacing and waterproofing on one bridge and strengthening works on the foundations of three other bridges. Two or three narrow lanes are in operation at different times during the works. The programme starts on Monday, January 6, at Gloucester Painswick Bridge between Junctions 11a and 12.

A 50 mph speed limit is in place. From February onwards work also begins on the following bridges: Stroud Road Brookthorpe Bridge between Junctions 11a and 12; Staverton Hayden Bridge between Junction 10 and 11; and Piffs Elm Bridge at Junction 10. n WORK TO REPAIR the bridge parapets on the Hillhouse Viaduct on the A14 near Hopton in Suffolk will take place for three nights from December 11 between 2100 and 0600hrs the following morning. There is an inside lane closure on the eastbound carriageway only.

The planned completion date is December 14. n WORK TO TEST the central reserve barrier on the A11 between the Plantation junction and Red Lodge takes place overnight, weeknights only, from December 9 between 2000 and 0600hrs. The outside lane in both directions is closed overnight only. The planned completion date is 0600hrs on December 18.

Eurotunnel overturns CC decision

Eurotunnel was blocked from running ferry services because of fears it would dominate the crossing, driving other businesses like DFDS away

Eurotunnel will be allowed to continue offering cross-channel ferry services from Dover after a ban by the UK Competition Commission was overturned on appeal to the Competition Appeal Tribunal.

The channel tunnel operator began running a ferry route between Dover and Calais in August 2012, but it was banned in June 2013 from operating the service for at least two years amid concern it could dominate the crossing market. The Commission will now reconsider the case.

Eurotunnel, which runs the

channel rail tunnel, including the Le Shuttle-branded Dover to Calais car rail service, bought three ships from Sea France after it went into liquidation in November 2011.

It began leasing them out last summer to the new MyFerryLink service, which is run primarily by former Sea France employees.

The Commission found Eurotunnel bought the ferries in order to make sure that a rival, DFDS/LD, could not buy them cheaply and then drive down the price of cross-channel travel. The watchdog was also concerned that DFDS was likely to be driven off the Dover to Calais route, strengthening Eurotunnel’s hand further. P&O Ferries also operates

on the route.

Reacting to the announcement, Jacques Gounon, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Eurotunnel, said: “This is a definitive victory for the consumer.

We are absolutely delighted by the Competition Appeal Tribunal’s decision which recognises the benefits and practicalities of our presence in the maritime crossChannel market” Robin Wilkins, Managing Director of MyFerryLink, commented: “This is a victory for common sense and logic. It is also an early Christmas present for our 600 employees.”

Managing Director of Stagecoach’s UK Coach division Elizabeth Esnouf said: “This is a great chance for our customers to grab a fantastic bargain and beat the winter blues.

“We have a loyal customer base and we’re delighted to be offering them this special promotion. We also hope it will encourage new customers to give our services a try and make the switch to greener, smarter and better value coach

travel.”

Megabus will again run services on Christmas Day this year, serving 14 locations across the Britain UK, including London, Bristol, Newport, Cardiff, Cwmbran, Coventry, Birmingham, Manchester, Leicester, Loughborough, Nottingham, Sheffield, Leeds and Swindon.

On all other days throughout Christmas and New Year, including New Year’s Day, megabus.com will

operate a near-normal service on most routes across the UK. The company’s megabus.com Europe services will operate virtually as normal throughout the festive season, including on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. megabusGold.com overnight sleepercoach services will also continue to run throughout the majority of the festive season with the exception of Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Eve.

Firm is once again allowed to offer Ferry services

Read the judgement in full at www. catribunal.org.uk

Megabus to offer mega seat giveaway for the new year Megabus is offering thousands of free seats on its services in England and Wales.

The Stagecoach-owned operator is offering 10,000 free seats on its coach networks in England and Wales between January 6, 2014 and February 20, 2014.

The free seats are available for travel from Monday to Thursday each week during the promotional period and can be booked by visiting the megabus.com website.

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Last King Alfred Running Day Friends of King Alfred Buses (FoKAB) has announced that the 2014 New Year’s Day Running Day in and around Winchester will be the last to be held on January 1.

The long-threatened bus station and Silverhill redevelopment in the town centre looks as if it’s now going ahead.

FoKAB is a registered charity dedicated to preserving King Alfred buses and coaches and the memory of King Alfred Motor Services which provided Winchester’s local bus services between 1920 and 1973. It has 30 years experience of giving nostalgic rides on it s fleet of 14 restored heritage buses.

FoKAB’s founder and Chairman, James Freeman who is also Reading Buses Chief Executive Officer, said: “We have had enormous fun staging this very popular event every year – taking advantage of what was often a blank space in people’s calendar to get people out after the Christmas holiday. But the world has changed around us and it’s

Epsom upbeat on bookings

Epsom Coaches says it is pleased to announce that advance bookings are well ahead of this this time last year.

The firm’s Sales Manager Melanie Cox commented: “Our summer brochure is packed full of new and interesting ideas and I am not surprised our customers are booking early to avoid disappointment.” Bookings are being made over the telephone and via the firm’s online booking system.

Alistair Scott, Product Manager is now working on the well-known operator’s day trip brochure which will be launched at its Reunion Break at the end of January.

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time to do something different.

For many years we have relied on the generous help of our friends at Stagecoach in making the bus station available to us to accommodate the many visiting buses needed to carry the huge numbers of people wanting to ride on the buses. Last year over 21,000 passenger journeys were made on the day! However, now that the days of the bus station are clearly numbered as the Silverhill redevelopment starts to look as though it will really happen, we feel it’s time to stop and re-focus Programmes can be ordered from the our efforts for future years.

Friends of King Alfred “We are considering moving the They will continue to appear in day from New Year’s Day to a time the meantime and we will be back when the weather is kinder and with an exiting new format that with less risk of weather causing ensures the public can relive the disruption or even cancellation best years of the King Alfred buses (which has never happened and their free rides to the full.” so far!). The format will also More than 40 vehicles will be need to change significantly to running on January 1 and souvenir reflect changes in Winchester’s timetables are available in advance development and traffic by post (for £12 post free) management and to focus more from: FoKAB, 13 Ashley Close, completely on the King Alfred Winchester, SO22 6LR. buses of which we are so proud.

SMMT: registrations up

The SMMT reports that November was the fourth month of growth for bus and coach registrations, up 38.4% to 623 units.

However, registrations remain down 8.1% for the year-to-date.

The purpose-built sector grew 29.6% in the month, but remains down 4.5% over the year so far.

Purpose-built coaches were also up 91.7% in the month and 18.4% for the year-to-date.

Mike Hawes, SMMT CEO said: “Registrations so far in 2013 are marginally down compared with 2012. Although the recent rate of growth is encouraging, we remain cautiously optimistic for 2014.”

FTA backs A9 50mph trial The Freight Transport Association (FTA) has given its support following last week’s announcement by Scotlands’ Minister for Transport and Veterans - Keith Brown MSP of a proposal to implement a 50 mph HGV speed limit trial on the single carriageway sections of the notorious A9 between Perth and Inverness.

In a letter to the A9 Safety Group, Brown has said that the trial will last 36 months and is to be introduced at the same time as the average speed cameras previously recommended by the Group, and is aimed at improving the operational performance of the route.

Malcolm Bingham FTA Head of Road Network Management Policy, said: “We believe the current differential in speed limits between HGVs and other vehicles increase the road safety risk. This trial will provide some much needed evidence to help determine if there are any advantages, on safety grounds, to set the speed limit of an HGV to 50mph.”

The Minister has said that the trial will work alongside a safe driving campaign run by the haulage industry and the wider work of the Group, and that the proposed speed limit pilot will apply to HGVs over 7.5t.

The A9 remains one of Scotland’s most important links. The Scottish Government is committed to dualling this route between Perth and Inverness by 2025. The FTA had previously voiced its disappointment that there had not been a move towards reducing the speed differential on single carriageway road, stating that it agreed that the introduction of the speed cameras would represent an enforced levelling of the playing field for those who comply with the A9 40mph limit.

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NEWS

Ensign Running Day success Two services used 18 heritage vehicles for the day Ensignbus ran one of its most successful running days last weekend using 18 vintage vehicles on two routes plus three lower capacity vehicles on shorter services to give more people a chance to experience them.

Ensign’s Steve Newman told CBW: “Most people have an idea what they will be seeing but we always try and introduce some surprises. Five recently restored additions to the heritage collection include an ex-East Kent Royal Tiger, a pre-war ex-Southdown Harrington-bodied Tiger TS7 and a very special former Greenline 10 T 10 which we brought back from Australia.

“The 10 T 10 we just couldn’t get finished in time if we were to run it at the weekend in its original livery.

We sprayed it in grey undercoat and put the livery of the Red Cross on them – just as they were painted when the American forces had taken some to use for moving injured troops around. Now some people are saying we should keep the Red Cross livery – but it wasn’t our original plan.”

Vintage buses operated on the X55 from Upminster into Lakeside, Bluewater and Gravesend – a trip taking an hour and 20 minutes each way. The X81 route ran from Shenfield to Brentwood, Lakeside and Grays. Being completely outside the LEZ it allowed the use of some of the more recently retired ex-London vehicles.

Steve said: “Other newcomers included an RTW which Leon

London Transport 10 T 10 Tiger from Australia donned wartime colours for the day. John Lidstone Daniels and Sir Peter Hendy found in France and we had it brought back home. Leon turned up to drive it on the day. He also had a go in the 10 T 10 and one of the smaller coaches. The real surprise entry for many was the ex-Southend Transport Jumbo Fleetline which no-one knew we had. The running day is our final event each year. We like to give the heritage vehicles a good shakedown run before they are put

away for the winter. It identifies anything which might need attention.

“This year’s event was so popular we almost ran out of tickets. While we often get the odd visitor come from across the Channel or fly down from Scotland especially for the event we broke the record this year. The former driver of our Cravens-bodied RT was employed

by London Brick Company – which had bought a number of them to

use as staff transport. Now aged 85, his family brought him along to have a ride in his old bus. His son flew all the way back from Australia to be here with him and share the moment – we’re pretty sure it’s the furthest anyone has travelled to be at an Ensignbus running day. We had lots of photos taken and even managed to get him safely into the cab. We also presented him with a bonnet plate from one of these buses.”

Heritage event to see off Salisbury bus station

Andrew Sherrington with the event poster and a Bristol RE bus as used in Salisbury in the 70s & 80s

Vintage and historic buses will mark the end of more than 70 years of bus operations at Salisbury bus station on Sunday, January 5.

Salisbury Reds will finish running the handful of bus services which use the station on Saturday, January 4 and is planning the nostalgic vintage bus day so families can travel on a selection of heritage vehicles on four special routes passing the city’s park and ride sites to the bus station.

All funds raised will go to the Hospital’s Stars Appeal.

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Souvenir programmes are also on sale to boost the fundraising total and Andrew Wickham, Managing Director of Go South Coast, part of the Go-Ahead Group which owns Salisbury Reds, has pledged to double the final total raised for the charity.

Salisbury Red’s Operations Manager Andrew Sherrington said the vintage day is a fitting and fun way to mark the era of the bus station which is now considered too expensive to maintain and operate services from.

“Through the decades the whole bus industry has changed, affected by many factors. We hope that on the January 5 between 1000 and 1600hrs we can to give people the chance to glimpse into the past as we focus on securing the future of bus travel in Wiltshire,” explained Andrew.

Over 15 vintage and historic buses are expected from across the country.

For more details, visit www.salisburyreds.co.uk

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Newport network changes Meadowhall staff join SYPTE’s Newport Transport, which trades as Newport Bus, has published revised timetables from December 8 for a number of its routes. The most prominent change is a reduction in the operator’s flagship service, the X30 Newport-Cardiff Motorway express service from three buses per hour to two. To compensate for the reduction in capacity, it is planned to operate this service with double-deckers.

The key changes include: • Services 2A/2C to/from the Gaer estate in the western part of the city see a reduction from three buses an hour to two; • Route 3B to/from Malpas (Woodlands) in the northern part of the city has been incorporated into the firm’s commercial network, with passengers benefitting from an improved service; • Services 8A/8C to Ringland estate on the eastern edge of the city will see a cut from six buses an hour to five; • Service 15/16 to/from the Bettws estate in the north of the city will drop from six buses per hour to four; • Routes 26A/26C to/from St Julian’s in the north east of the city

will drop from three buses an hour to two; • Routes 35/36 to/from Duffryn in the south west of the city sees a drop from four buses an hour to three; and • New hourly service 5A/5C will replace the City Circular services 4, 5 and services 40/41 which operates to Pillgwenlly and the local Redrow Development.

Services 2A/2C to/from the Gaer estate in the western part of the city see a reduction from three buses an hour to two.

A move to reduce dead mileage will see some buses used on the Chepstow town services, outstationed locally. Journey time between the towns direct can take up to 35 minutes to cover the 27 miles. This will follow a similar practice used by the firm for its Monmouth town service.

Morgan Stevens, Senior Operations Manager told CBW: “We have made changes to our timetables to improve reliability and efficiencies.

“We have not made any drivers redundant – as we employed 10 staff on a temporary basis, who have not had their contracts renewed.”

Analysis from pteg of recently released Treasury figures claims public spending on transport in London is £545 per head, around 2.3 times higher than the West Midlands and the North of England.

The figures per region are: £213 per head for the North East, £265 for the North West, £246 for Yorkshire and the Humber and £202 for the West Midlands. The figures also show public spending per head of population on transport is at a five-year low for London, the North, and the West Midlands. pteg said the disparity between London and the regions is not matched for public spending as a whole, or for education or

health. It’s also a relatively recent phenomenon, rather than the historic norm.

Cllr David Wood, who chairs the group of six of the largest transport authorities outside London, said: “The figures show transport spend per head is declining and, within that, London continues to get well over double the level our regions receive.

“There’s no argument from us against London needing and deserving a high quality transport system. Any visitor to London can see with their own eyes the scale and benefits of investment – but the next tier of cities also need to see investment on a similar scale if the UK economy is to be rebalanced.”

Spending on transport at five-year low

sustainable travel scheme

Darren Pearce (right), Meadowhall Centre Director and Mark Bruce (left), Meadowhall Retail Director picking up their free travel passes at Meadowhall Interchange Meadowhall Shopping Centre staff have left their cars at home after joining forces with South Yorkshire Passenger Transport Executive’s (SYPTE) sustainable travel scheme, ‘Inmotion!’

More than 300 employees are going green for the 28-day ‘Busboost’ scheme in return for free travel on any bus, train or tram across South Yorkshire. The Inmotion! Busboost, delivered by SYPTE, is part of the DfT’s £24.6m Local Sustainable Transport Fund in South Yorkshire.

Darren Pearce, Centre Director at Meadowhall who is taking part in the scheme, said: “This is a great initiative supporting people to think about the way they travel.

South Yorkshire is well served for public transport, and with a recent report placing Sheffield within the top 10 cities in the UK when it comes to congestion it’s not only the right environmental option but the stress free option too, not least at this busy time of year.

“As a business we take our environmental responsibility extremely seriously and so we’re delighted to be part of this initiative and hope it will

encourage some of our staff to consider alternatives to the car.”

Inmotion! is made up of representatives from SYPTE, Barnsley, Doncaster, Rotherham and Sheffield Councils and provides businesses across South Yorkshire with advice on public transport, cycling, walking and greener driving schemes.

SYPTE Deputy Interim Director General, David Young, said: “Busboost has already encouraged over 5,800 employees across the connurbation to try travelling to work by public transport. We’re pleased to be working with Meadowhall, together with our Inmotion! partners.

“Travelling by public transport is not only better for the environment but can be a healthier option too, when exercise through journeys to and from the bus and tram stop or train station is taken into account.

“We are excited to continue to work hard with local businesses, offering support and training that can help staff move their commute away from the car and give public transport, walking and cycling a go – in a bid to make getting to work simple and stress free.”

Quality mobile bus & coach engineers throughout the UK TECHNICAL SUPPORT Ltd www.coachandbusweek.com

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01253 340565 enquiries@wjftechnicalsupport.co.uk www.wjftechnicalsupport.co.uk December 11, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 11 09/12/2013 21:07

NEWS FOCUS › ACCESSIBILITY

Government responds to TSC report on access for disabled No immediate action or commitments appear to be made, with campaigners claiming coalition is ignoring disabled people on transport On November 18, the Transport Select Committee (TSC) received a response from the Government to its report on access to transport for disabled people. The government responded to a number of recommendations made by the TSC. Addressing concerns about how the Accessibility Action Plan would be monitored, it said the Department for Transport (DfT) will publish an annual update on implementation of the commitments.

The government’s review of the Inclusive Mobility guidance is still scheduled for 2014, as set out in its Action Plan. However, work on this has been halted for the time being, as a result of ‘corporate planning and resource constraints.’

COMPLIANCE INCENTIVES

Claiming changes for the disabled are improvements for all, the TSC recommended that financial incentives should be introduced for bus and coach firm to bring forward capital investment in new PSVARcompliant vehicles ahead of the deadline for compliance. The body said a system of penalties should be in place for operators who fail to run low-floor buses on routes advertised as such and the DfT should work with operators to implement a nationwide campaign asking people to make space for wheelchairs in wheelchair areas of the buses.

In response, the DfT said offering anything which constitutes a form of financial assistance to commercial operators to encourage them to comply with legal requirements is likely to constitute unlawful state aid under EU law. On the subject of mis-advertising ‘low-floor’ bus services, if an operator does not use a ‘low-floor’ bus on a service which is advertised as being accessible, Traffic Commissioners are able to

call that operator to a Public Inquiry.

It was also noted that there may be exceptional circumstances when the operator is unable to provide an accessible vehicle and needs to use a temporary replacement, where it would be preferable to allow a replacement to be used for a short period of time so the service can continue to run.

With regards to wheelchair space priority on buses, the PSV Regulations 2002 state drivers must allow a wheelchair user to board the bus when the wheelchair space is unoccupied and ask any other passengers occupying the wheelchair space to move. However, the passengers are under no legal compulsion to move if they do not wish to do so. The government said individual transport authorities can take action concerning wheelchair priority on their buses if they wish, such as campaigns outlining the rules passengers should follow.

AUDIO VISUAL

The TSC recommended the DfT and transport authorities review their position on Audio-Visual (AV) systems on buses, asking for a requirement for all new buses to have AV systems in place. In response, despite the previous Minister with responsibility for buses, Norman Baker MP, writing to operators encouraging the uptake of these systems on a voluntary basis in partnership with local authorities, the Government said it did not at this point intend to legislate to make on-bus AV mandatory. It said the business case for operators cannot be demonstrated and the DfT is loath to impose financial burdens on the industry.

TRAINING

Turning to travel training schemes, the TSC had recommended that the DfT should encourage local authorities to include the schemes in bids for funding in the next round of the Local Sustainable Transport Fund (LSTF).

The Government said the

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The DfT said it did not want to impose the financial burden of AV on operators spending round announcements in June confirmed that the LSTF will continue into 2015/16. While the DfT would not provide specific examples of schemes within the revenue funding guidance, it has sent a letter to Chairs of Local Enterprise Partnerships and local authority CEOs confirming the bids should be ambitious, engage local businesses, and be focused on improving quality of life for the local community.

On staff training and awareness, the TSC said the DfT should end the exemption and work with the coach and bus industry and disability charities to develop a basic disability awareness training package for drivers for implementation by 2014.

The DfT said it announced its intention on February 7, 2013, to make use of a number of exemptions within EU Regulation 181/2011 concerning the rights of coach and bus passengers.

The decision to apply all of these exemptions was taken to ensure the UK met its EU obligations while delaying costs to the industry and giving it more time to prepare, likely to be of particular benefit to small and medium size operators.

In order to mitigate the impact of applying the disability awareness training exemption, Norman Baker wrote to industry representatives to

encourage the completion of such training at the earliest opportunity and DfT remains committed to review the use of exemption in a year’s time (March 2014). CPT has estimated that across the whole coach and bus industry, 75% of drivers would have completed some form of disability awareness training

by March 2013 as part of Driver CPC and this figure continues to rise.

FUNDING ASSESSMENT

The TSC said it recommends that the DfT develops and publishes a methodology for quantitative assessment of benefits from improving accessibility to disabled people.

The Government said the DfT currently publishes detailed guidance on the qualitative assessment of social and distributional impacts of transport interventions, including improved accessibility to disabled people.

While it said these assessments are taken into account in determining the overall value for money of schemes, it recognised that existing guidance is limited to qualitative assessments.

While established methodologies exist to monetise the impacts of bus policy on the economy and the environment, the Government said relatively little is known about

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CPT said many operators have fully-accessible fleets, like trent barton’s flagship red arrow inter-urban coach service (pictured) the value of social benefits, such as increased accessibility. The DfT said it will continue to aspire towards improving methodologies for the quantitative assessments of benefits from improving accessibility.

CONCLUDING REMARKS

In its report, the TSC had said, given the potential benefit across government from promoting transport for disabled people, it was surprised at the lack of such co-ordination and engagement currently between departments, as seen with the lack of coordination between the DfT and Department for Work & Pensions over changes to Motability. The Environmental Audit Committee recommended in its recent report ‘Transport and accessibility to public services’ that the Cabinet Office convene a working group of ministers and officials to improve cross-government working on accessibility, a recommendation which the TSC agreed with.

In the Government’s response to the Environmental Audit Committee report, it noted the DfT does work closely with a number of other departments, including the Departments of Health, Work and Pensions, and Communities and Local Government to deliver its remit, including improving www.coachandbusweek.com

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accessibility for disabled people.

However, it said that in recognition that transport accessibility is primarily a local issue, it believed local communities, local government and operators are best placed to identify practical solutions.

The Cabinet Office did not think an inter-Ministerial Group would add value to this local agenda.

The TSC recommended that the DfT must work with the Disability Action Alliance (DAA) to identify successful local authority and/or operator schemes and promote their development nationally.

In response, it was said that the DfT has started engaging with the DAA on its transport project. It is interested in working with the DDA to promote good practice among operators, to help make transport as accessible for disabled people as it is for the rest of the population, and will be giving further consideration to how it can work with the DDA on delivering some of the commitments in the Accessibility Action Plan.

REACTION

Guide Dogs Campaigns Manager James White told CBW: “Passengers with sight loss have been let down by the Government today. After carefully considering the evidence, the non-partisan TSC recommended all new buses have AV technology.

The Government has responded, saying they will not legislate on this issue. We are sorely disappointed.

“Buses are essential for independence, particularly that of disabled people, and must therefore be accessible to everyone. Without AV, 9 out of 10 bus passengers with sight loss have missed their stop, leaving them lost and disorientated.

We need ‘Talking Buses’ to give people their independence.

“The Government says there isn’t a business case. People report to us that buses without AV mean they routinely miss medical appointments, job opportunities and family visits. The costs of social isolation are well known – helping older and disabled people get around makes sense for individuals, for society and for the economy.”

Former Paralympian Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson told The Independent: “It is really disappointing that the response is so unhelpful. With the changes in welfare reform and the significant number of people who will have lost support, public transport is vital to get disabled people to work.”

The Independent pointed to findings from the Leonard Cheshire charity, which earlier this year claimed 37% of disabled Britons had difficulty using the nation’s road and rail networks, 10% more than

when the same poll was carried out in 2009. Common issues identified were lack of awareness and staff training, with some travellers reporting inadequate support and negative attitudes. Staff were sometimes absent or ‘too busy’ when help was required, while a lack of information and accessibility on websites and poor signage at stations were also reported.

Chris Nice from the CPT told CBW: “The industry has come a long way over the last five-10 years and there’s a lot going on. Many operators will have compliant fleets well before the deadlines of 2017 for buses and 2020 for coaches.

“Much is also being done in terms of training. Many operators have held events where drivers switch places with partially sighted or wheelchair-bound passengers to gain a better understanding of the issues they face. Operators also work closely with disability groups.

“We’re not saying it’s perfect and there is room for improvement, but the industry is definitely heading in the right direction.”

If you would like to read the full report, visit www. publications.parliament.uk/ pa/cm201314/cmselect/ cmtran/870/87003.htm

December 11, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 13 09/12/2013 20:32

NEWS › INTERNATIONAL

500 Mercedes-Benz bus chassis for Belo Horizonte BRT

Marcopolo’s stylish BRT body on a Mercedes-Benz chassis

BRAZIL Gearing up for the 2014 World Cup, Belo Horizonte, as one of the twelve locations for international games is preparing for a major influx of visitors and subsequent increase in passengers aboard its transport systems.

Located in Southeast Brazil, the operating companies of the city’s new Bus Rapid Transit system (BRT) “MOVE” are investing in 500 chassis from Mercedes-Benz do Brasil.

Deliveries are starting immediately and will be completed in due time for the operational start of the BRT system in the first quarter of 2014.

Until the third quarter of the current year, Daimler’s bus division sold 14,400 units in Latin America – an increase of 17%.Vastly increased sales are being driven by demand created by the World Cup in 2014 and the Olympic Games in 2016 in Brazil.

Hartmut Schick, Head of Daimler Buses, said: “Transport businesses in the World Cup locations are relying on the modern BRT

transport system on the one hand, and on our bus portfolio on the other. Our Mercedes-Benz citybuses are represented in around 70% of the BRT systems in Brazil. Thus, we contribute substantially to the realisation of sustainable mobility concepts in urban environments.”

The buses will be deployed in the 23 km-long MOVE BRT system which incorporates three partial routes and around 40 bus stops.

According to estimates of the local transport operation “BHTrans” (Empresa de Transportes e Trânsito de Belo Horizonte), the

BRAZIL Brazil’s federal government is providing 2.09bn reais (US$913m) for eight public transport projects in the cities of Fortaleza and Caucaia in Ceará state.

A statement from the cities ministry said 1.05bn reais will come from the federal

government’s general budget (OGU), with the remainder sourced from government-backed financial institutions.

The projects include the construction of Fortaleza metro’s 18.2km western line, improvement works on the southern line plus the

construction of a 23.2km bus corridor along avenues Perimetral and Juscelino Kubitschek in Fortaleza, the conclusion of a 6.5km bus rapid transport (BRT) lane along avenues Eduardo Girão and José Bastos and an additional 37.2km of bus lane throughout the city. Meanwhile, Caucaia will

With the World Cup and Olympic Games due, Brazil is making significant transport investment

BRT system will move around 700,000 passengers per day. The driving time between the points travelled in the system is to be shortened by an average of 45%.

Along with its progressive product portfolio for passenger transport, Daimler also provides support in the planning, introduction or further development of custom-tailored concepts for bus rapid transit systems with its team of BRT experts. The group includes transport planning specialists, engineers, strategists and local teams of experts around the world.

Brazil investment continues supporting BRT

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benefit from the construction of the 52km Caucaia-Pecém light rail system (VLT).

The investment forms part of Brazil’s urban mobility pact, launched in June this year, under which the government pledged 50bn reais for urban public transport projects. www.coachandbusweek.com

09/12/2013 19:23

Volvo sells 190 buses to San Salvador EL SALVADOR Volvo Bus Latin America has sold 190 buses to the Metropolitan Integrated Transport System of San Salvador (SITRAMSS), capital of El Salvador.

The order comprises of 60 articulated buses and 130 standard buses. The vehicles will operate in the BRT (Bus Rapid Transit) system, which is being built in the city. Nearly all vehicles will be equipped with the Volvo Bus Fleet Management service, which helps operators to increase fuel efficiency.

“Once again we’re participating in the process of developing a BRT system in Latin America. This is something we are proud of, as it adds to the effectiveness of our vehicles in addressing a transport model that offers a higher quality of life to people who live in the city,” affirms Luis Carlos Pimenta, President of Volvo Bus Latin America.

The buses were purchased by the consortium formed by the companies of Sipago and Subes.

The first 40 vehicles will be delivered in December this year, the remaining buses in the spring

Volvo’s B340M articulated BRT chassis measures 21m long and provides a platform for up to 180 passengers of 2014. The 60 articulated buses are Volvo B340M, 21m long with capacity for 180 passengers. The 130 standard buses are Volvo B290R which carry 90 passengers.

Marcopolo of Brazil will provide the bus bodies.

The articulated buses are equipped with Alcolock, which works as a breath analyser, disc brakes with ABS/EBS system, electronic traction control, electronic suspension and automatic gearbox.

Nearly all vehicles will be equipped with the Volvo Bus Fleet Management service, which allows for carrier operators to

track their buses in real time. The system provides information about fuel consumption, emission of pollutants, hours in operation and average speed for each vehicle in the fleet, as well as by driver. By following the position of each bus in real time, it’s possible to identify delays, problems or deviations in routes, and generate a geographic position history.

“This system will drive productivity efficiency for the operator. The information enables definition of targets, identification of failures and adoption of measures to increase safety and to reduce operational costs of fuel

MAN solo and articulated buses strengthen Tallinna Linnatranspordi AS fleet ESTONIA MAN is supplying 20 MAN Lion’s City LEs and 20 Lion’s City GL articulated buses to the Estonian capital’s public transport company, Tallinna Linnatranspordi AS (TLT). With effect from November 2013, the new vehicles supplement TLT’s fleet of around 420 buses.

Service and maintenance of the buses will be carried out by MAN importer Keil M.A. A fullydeveloped service concept ensures short delivery times for spare parts. Downtime for the buses is reduced thanks to particularly efficient, time-saving servicing.

The 20 MAN Lion’s City buses have an overall length of 12m and are the low-entry variant. They are driven by 290bhp diesel engines complying with the EEV standard (Enhanced Environmentallyfriendly Vehicle) and carry 85 passengers.

The lowfloor variant of the 320bhp, 18.75m articulated MAN Lion’s City GL has space for 166 passengers. With four double doors, the flow of passengers onto or off the vehicle is rapid and reduces dwell time a stops.

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Some of the 20 new MAN Lion’s City LE buses joining the Tallinna Linnatranspordi fleet All the buses are equipped with double-glazing and a special heating package for countries in northerly climes. Thanks to their wheelchair ramps and kneeling function, they offer disabled passengers a high level of comfort.

The driver benefits from an ergonomic cockpit with air-sprung seat, which makes for effortless

driving.

This is the second major order for MAN from Tallinna Linnatranspordi AS in the space of the last two years.

In addition to the high build quality and reliability of the vehicles, TLT claims it is very satisfied with the low fuel consumption of the MAN citybuses.

consumption and maintenance”, comments Euclides Castro, Urban Bus Manager, Volvo Bus Latin America.

The order also includes Volvo offering technical advisory services and an assessment of the city’s traffic characteristics to the administration agency of the San Salvador transport system.

“The objective of this work is to match the deployment of the vehicles to the local characteristics, in order to achieve gains in efficiency and increased average speed for the buses”, said Idam Stival, Sales engineer, Volvo Bus Latin America.

McAllen moves towards electric buses

USA The City of McAllen, Texas, is planning the acquisition of two electric buses at a cost of just over $2m. This will be the city’s second attempt to add cutting-edge technology to its Metro McAllen fleet of diesel-powered buses.

City commissioners voted to approve the purchase from WAVE Inc. of Park City, Utah at a cost of $2,045,000, almost $74,000 under budget and funded mainly by federal grant money. McAllen is contributing only $211,000.

WAVE Inc. is now piloting the technology in Utah and is in final testing stages. Transit Director Liz Suarez said: “We’re excited to be able to launch something like this in the Valley. We’d be the first transit property in the state of Texas to be able to deploy this type of technology.

“The bus uses an in-ground pad to recharge its battery through a magnetic resonance system,” Suarez explained.

December 11, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 15 09/12/2013 21:29

NEWS › REGIONAL SCOTLAND STAGECOACH and First Aberdeen have called for a meeting with city council officials to ease congestion problems in the city and warned they ‘cannot wait’ until the Aberdeen western peripheral road is built, the Aberdeen Evening Express reported.

Management at Stagecoach has now called for the Labour-led administration to review its Local Transport Strategy and admitted routes could change.

First Aberdeen also said it is keen to work on solutions to congestion – but insisted a review of its bus routes wasn’t currently on the table.

In a separate development, a trial to scrap bus lanes in Aberdeen may go ahead.

Bus operators warned any move to ditch lanes in the Granite City would be a backward step, but Aberdeen City Council’s transport spokesman said there could be lessons to learn from the experiment in Liverpool, where the council is to study traffic flow before deciding which, if any, bus lanes should be reinstated.

THE OPENING of a number of new shops at Dundee’s Stack Leisure Park has had a positive effect on passenger numbers for National Express Dundee.

The recently re-launched Outer Circle serves the Lochee shopping centre, while the 1A and 1B also serves St Mary’s, Ardler and the Hilltown with Stack.

Now the interiors store The Range has followed the recent opening of Aldi and Home Bargains, National Express has noted an increase of just over 3%, as customers use its services to visit the repopulated shopping centre.

National Express Dundee Managing Director, Phil Smith said: “I’m pleased to see the regeneration of this area - the new shopping centre at Stack Leisure Park is clearly breathing new life into Lochee. I welcome the fact customers are choosing to visit the new stores there by bus and would encourage more people to do so.”

NORTH

BUS SERVICE FREQUENCIES are being increased across Oldham and Saddleworth from the New Year.

The 180 service to Greenfield will double in frequency from hourly to half-hourly, Monday to Saturday during the day from January 28.

KEY

SOUTH WEST

Other improvements include the 184 Uppermill-to-Manchester service, which will remain at three buses an hour but at better-spaced intervals. The Sunday service will be increased during shopping hours from one to three buses an hour. There will also be extra 180 and 184 services mid-evening to cater for evening shoppers and additional early journeys on Saturday and Sunday mornings.

The 425 Holts and Fitton Hill service will increase in frequency at off peak times from every 12 minutes to every 10 minutes.

The 83 Sholver service will have faster journey times and additional early Sunday morning journeys introduced, while the 408 Buckstones-to-Stalybridge service will be retimed at peak times to improve timekeeping.

First is also considering other issues raised at a Saddleworth and Lees consultation event for possible implementation in April, 2014.

SPECIAL BUS SERVICES will run in Sheffield on Boxing Day and New Year’s Day for £1 per journey.

The First and Stagecoach bus services, run as part of Sheffield Bus Partnership and funded by Sheffield City Council, will operate on most key routes between 0800 and 1730hrs. It will be the sixth year Sheffield Council has funded the special services.

Sheffield City Council Cabinet Member Cllr Leigh Bramall, said: “Public transport is a great way to get around the city and still be free to share a Christmas toast or two

16 | COACH & BUS WEEK | December 11, 2013 016_017_CBW1117_Regional News.indd 16

service to High Wycombe via St Mark’s Hospital.

More than 120 free journeys were made during the course of the weekend on the 8 and X/9 route.

Matthew Wooll, First Group Revenue and Marketing Manager for Berkshire, said: “We’ve had ideas for a Maidenhead to High Wycombe service for several years, these two towns are very close to each other as the crow flies, but a journey by public transport can currently take an hour.

“Our buses use the A404 dualcarriageway and most journey times are reduced considerably.”

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

with family and friends. We really do hope people will use these services and take advantage of the reduced fares to help spread the seasonal spirit.”

SYPTE Deputy Interim Director General, David Young, said: “The extra services mean buses will run every day over the festive period, except on Christmas Day, giving people a convenient way to get where they need to be.”

Ben Gilligan, MD for First in South Yorkshire, said: “The services we ran on Boxing Day and New Year’s day last year were well used and we are pleased to provide these important services once again.”

Paul Lynch, MD for Stagecoach in Sheffield, said: “We understand our customers still like to get around using the bus over Christmas, particularly on Boxing Day and the Christmas sales period. With this in mind partners continue to work together to provide the people of Sheffield with a convenient, realistic travel option.”

Revised bus timetables will operate in Sheffield from Tuesday, December 24 until Thursday, January 2, 2014. In many cases, services on weekdays will follow their usual Saturday timetables.

SOUTH EAST

A NEW BUS SERVICE between Maidenhead and High Wycombe has been well received in its first weekend.

The service, provided by First, offered free travel to all passengers on Saturday, November 23, and Sunday, November 24, on the X/9

SMARTCARDS for bus passengers on some services in Bristol will be introduced in February, the BBC has reported.

First Bus has confirmed park and ride smartcard tickets will be brought into use following a trial this month. The scheme is expected to be rolled out for weekly and monthly passes in the city’s inner and outer zones in April.

Smartcards in some other parts of the West Country are due to be introduced by next September.

Bristol City Council’s Assistant Mayor, Mark Bradshaw, said: “We want a smartcard which offers flexibility and value to passengers so feedback from the trial will help us make essential adjustments before it is available to regular Park and Ride travellers.

“In future our aim is for smartcards to be used on all city buses and, eventually, the local train network.”

Operators say each smartcard, which will be available for children, students and adults, can be topped up on the bus or at travel shops.

An online topping up service will follow at a later date.

BUS PASSENGERS can now travel anywhere in Plymouth, all day and with any bus operator, for £4.

Plymouth City Council has launched the ‘Skipper,’ which is the city’s first multi-operator day ticket. It allows unlimited travel throughout the city and surrounding areas including Torpoint, Saltash, Roborough, Langage, Ivybridge, Wembury and Heybrook Bay. Fares are £4 for adults and £3 for children up to 18.

Cllr Mark Coker, Cabinet Member for Transport, said: “We’re really pleased with this breakthrough, which is a big step towards www.coachandbusweek.com

09/12/2013 19:25

Join the discussion on Twitter by following us at @cbwtweets and find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/coachandbusweek providing a more integrated bus service in Plymouth. Introducing ‘through ticketing’ was one of this administration’s priorities and we hope the Skipper is popular with passengers.”

Richard Stevens, Managing Director of Plymouth Citybus, said: “Against a backdrop of challenging economic times for residents and businesses we hope this valuefor-money product will be well received.”

DORSET COUNTY COUNCIL’S cabinet has approved a number of bus service cuts.

The council has been consulting on proposed changes to its bus network in order to cut more than £800,000 from its subsidy. The changes backed by councillors will see a number of routes withdrawn or revised across the county.

However, after officers estimated the savings achieved through changes originally proposed would be £970,000 rather than the £850,000 previously proposed, members decided to reinstate a number of services. They focused on key Saturday services and preserving a minimum weekly service for isolated communities as well as earmarking an additional £25,000 for the council’s community transport budget.

Cllr member for environment Hilary Cox said: “Having accepted

we need the budget savings we had to go out and see how we can provide the best possible service with the budget available to us.”

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

EAST

COUNCILLORS IN RUTLAND have introduced special Christmas ticket offers to encourage bus use.

Two-for-one fares will be available on selected Rutland County Council Work Link services Monday to Saturday throughout December. Single tickets cost £2.

Portfolio holder for transport Martyn Pocock said: “What better way to enjoy your festive celebrations than to leave the car at home, knowing you can catch the bus home at the end of your evening.

“The two-for-one ticket offer, running on late-night bus services throughout December, means a couple can travel for just £4 return.

It will hopefully attract people into Oakham as well as providing local residents with an option if they want to spend an evening in neighbouring towns.”

The discount fares apply on the 1805 Oakham to Melton service (Saturdays only), 2110 Melton to Oakham, 2205 Oakham to Melton, 1815 Oakham to Stamford (Saturdays only), 2105 Stamford to Oakham and 2215 Oakham to Stamford.

Oxford Bus Museum is hosting free vintage bus rides on New Years Day

2014

www.ukcoachawards.co.uk

n January 1 Friends of King Alfred Bus Running Day. Winchester.

Free bus rides & transport enthusiasts bazaar.

n April 29-May 1 The Commercial Vehicle Show NEC, Birmingham.

01634 261262 www.cvshow.com

www.fokab.org.uk

n January 1 Oxford Bus Museum New Years Day & free vintage bus rides. 01993 861 617. www. oxfordbusmuseum.org.uk n January 23 CPT Annual Dinner.

The Grange Tower Bridge Hotel, London. 020 7240 3131. www.cpt-uk.org n January 25 Excursions 2014 Alexandra Palace, London www.excursions.org.uk n February 1, 2014 LTCOA Dinner Dance The Royal Garden Hotel, Knightsbridge. Call Sue Reynolds on 07932 158999 or email ltcoa@btinternet.com n March 4–7 QV Associates’ course Introduction to Bus & Crew Scheduling. Birmingham. 01905 613527. www.qv-associates.com/

qvcourses.htm READING BUSES is planning to bring more Christmas cheer to the festive season by launching a Facebook/Twitter Christmas photo competition.

Customers are encouraged to take a picture – with a festive theme - holding a bus ticket or their smartcard while travelling on a bus.

Reading Buses say the best photo, as judged by a team of staff, will win a Kindle Fire HD. There will be runners-up prizes of easysaver 10 tickets.

Jake Osman, Reading Buses Marketing Manager, said: “We thought it would be fun to see how Christmassy our customers are feeling.

“We felt that having people take Christmas themed pictures of themselves on our buses might provide a bit of fun during their travel in the build-up to Christmas.

“They can then just upload them to Facebook and Twitter (instantly using the free WiFi on many routes) via the hashtag #tinseltravel. The competition will run until December 20 - wich means the lucky the winners can collect their prizes before Christmas.” www.coachandbusweek.com

016_017_CBW1117_Regional News.indd 17

n March 19-20 Young Bus Managers Network Conference.

Reading. www.youngbusmanagers. org.uk n March 25–28 QV Associates’ course Route & Timetable Planning Birmingham. 01905 613527. www.qv-

n May 10-11 UK Coach Rally.

Alton Towers. 01753 631170. www.coachdisplays.co.uk n May 12-14 ALBUM Conference.

Murrayfield Stadium, Edinburgh. www.album-bus.co.uk n July 6-7 North Norfolk Railway Bus Rally. Heritage bus service both days, transport Festival on Sunday. Email bus@johnrstewart. co.uk for an entry form. n July 12–13 Routemaster 60.

Finsbury Park, London. Organised by the Routemaster Association, the event will commemorate the 60th anniversary of the unveiling of RM1. www.routemaster.org.uk n July 20 Alton Bus Rally.

Anstey Park, Alton, Hants. www. altonbusrally.org.uk n September 10-11 Low Carbon Vehicle Event, Millbrook, Bedfordshire. 01509 635 750. www. cenex-lcv.co.uk n September 21 Showbus 2014.

Imperial War Museum, Duxford. www.showbus.com n September 25 - October 2 IAA Commercial Vehicle Show.

Hannover, Germany. www.iaa.de

associates.com/qvcourses.htm

n April 5 South East Bus Festival.

Kent Showground, Maidstone. www. facebook.com/southeastbusfestival n April 10 UK Coach Awards.

Mercure Piccadilly Hotel, Manchester.

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

December 11, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 17 09/12/2013 19:25

MANUFACTURER › VOLVO BUS

Volvo Bus at Euro 6 Planning ahead with operator support is the way to handle the much-feared Euro 6 emission standard, according to Volvo

V

olvo Bus Sales Director, Phil Owen, paints a refreshingly honest and realistic picture of today’s market place, as his company continues to work closely alongside operators to achieve shared savings in terms of fuel and vehicle whole life cost.

“It’s certainly no secret that the bus market has been challenging over the last few years,” he explained. “Not just for Volvo Bus, but for all manufacturers. The current �inancial climate, fuel prices and general cuts have seen our customers hold back from developing their businesses the ways they may have liked.

Changes in local authority funding have also affected their purchasing decision making.

“At Volvo Bus we are increasingly con�ident as we look forward. We’re developing for today, as well as the future,” continued Phil. “We have already set out our strategy for the next �ive years and we have been really quite transparent

18 | COACH & BUS WEEK | December 11, 2013 018_020_CBW1117_Volvo.indd 18

in our approach, which is something that the operators like and appreciate.”

Driving Euro 6

“Euro 6 legislation is obviously driving everything we do, but we are including the operators in our testing, analysis and vehicle development and the feedback we’ve had is that they like being actively involved. They are genuinely excited about our new technology developments.”

Indeed Volvo’s Euro 6 hybrid buses will be on the roads of the UK and Ireland early in 2014 and the company anticipates ‘plug-in’ hybrid buses to follow by 2016 with full electric buses on the horizon after that.

“Our biggest challenge as a manufacturer is to reassure the operators about Euro 6. We are committed to ensure that we develop the often costly technological innovations required in the legislative changes, while at the same time

keeping increases of operator end sale price to a minimum.

“The support from the Department for Transport (DfT) and the Scottish Government with Green Bus Funding undoubtedly has been very important,” explained Phil. “As manufacturers we are not currently supplying enough vehicles which allow operators to purchase buses without support, so additional funding is still vital. Our long-term goal at Volvo Bus is to work with the operators to �ind a commercially viable solution without the requirement for Government subsidies or grants.”

New double deck bus

Phil Fletcher, Volvo’s Regional Sales Manager took up the story: “Our competitors face the same challenges as ourselves. This means competition in the marketplace is extremely aggressive. In response to this, our new Euro 6

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09/12/2013 21:34

Lothian’s 20 new Volvo 7900 Hybrids will be the first Euro 6 single deck Volvo buses to enter operation. The renowned operator already runs a fleet of the type, albeit not Euro 6

products will be lighter, quieter and even more fuel ef�icient than before. Operators can really see the bene�its in relation to reduced life cycle costs.

“The new Euro 6 Volvo B5TL double deck bus has been speci�ically developed alongside bodybuilders to offer operators everything they require for uptime and for their bottom line.”

“Using a smaller engine than the existing B9TL, the new B5TL double deck loses nothing in terms of performance and offers superb fuel economy and excellent maintainability,” added Phil Fletcher.

“For those operators wishing to go down the hybrid route we have also developed the new B5LH to Euro 6 standard. Both the B5TL diesel and the B5LH hybrid superbly compliment each other. Commonality of components between both products is extremely high.

“This is no accident. It is done speci�ically at the request of our operators and from listening www.coachandbusweek.com

018_020_CBW1117_Volvo.indd 19

to their feedback.”

18 or 14 tonne single deck?

Phil Owen added: “Volvo Bus Corporation is the leading supplier of hybrid vehicles in Europe, with the UK providing well over one third of the total. This is something we are very proud of.

The challenge is to maintain and expand on that success with our new Euro 6 B5LH double deck and the 7900H single deck.”

Volvo Bus has also been quick to address a currently topical industry-wide debate as to whether 18 tonne single deck buses are a viable competitor to 14 tonne stretched midi buses.

We believe there is a place for both products in the market and the speci�ic operating area and expected life in service will determine which product is chosen.

Volvo Bus Regional Sales Manager, Dan Barwick explained: “Our complete integral 7900H single deck hybrid bus has proved very

successful in service with operators such as Lothian Buses and FirstGroup.”

“It is delivering excellent in-service results in terms of fuel, reliability and passenger feedback.

“Operators can see there are positive bene�its in relation to reduced life cycle costs, reduced environmental impact, enhanced company pro�ile and competitive edge during tendering.

Furthermore, operators are fascinated to see the next step in terms of ‘plug-in’ developments, which aim to produce even further enhancements.

“Volvo Bus will launch the B8RLE single deck product for Euro 6 during Q1-4 and believe that this new vehicle will build on the success enjoyed by the B7RLE, particularly with the municipal operators.

“Volvo’s reputation with these operators is good,” continued Dan. With so much else to consider, the team at Volvo Bus is keen to stand apart from their

December 11, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 19 09/12/2013 21:34

MANUFACTURER › VOLVO BUS competition and believes they already do this not only with their product development, but also with their unrivalled support network.

“Our extensive network of over 90 dealer points throughout the UK has highly skilled Volvo trained technicians that are able to service our customer needs on the go. With advancements in vehicle technology we expect to see even more examples of Volvo looking after the maintenance of vehicles, leaving operators free to focus on their core business goals,” continued Dan. He added: “Our customers have peace of mind that their dealer will carry out any required maintenance to the manufacturer’s recommended service levels.

“From parts contracts, telematics, repair and maintenance through to contract hire, we can work with our customers to offer a complete package that meets their needs, and most importantly, maximises their uptime, availability and overall ef�iciency.”

Telematics as standard

Expanding on this further, Phil Owen added: “For Euro 6, improved Volvo Bus soft product packages are to be offered as standard across the board, whether by expanding existing packages or by creating bespoke packages designed speci�ically for individual operators.

For instance, each new vehicle at Euro 6 will come with Volvo Bus Telematics installed as standard, which the operator can choose to activate and use as they wish. We would like operators to see for themselves how effective this tool can be by providing key information to maximise the performance of personnel as well as the vehicle.

“As part of the introduction to Euro 6 in 2013, we at Volvo Bus have embarked on a companywide training initiative. The Volvo Bus Sales Academy has thoroughly prepared all staff, both technical and sales, for Euro 6 and beyond,

Euro 6 B5LH was launched at Coach & Bus Live which means all our staff can promote Euro 6 with con�idence and reassurance.

“To further support and develop soft product offers which our sales teams can promote, Volvo Bus recently appointed a dedicated Soft Products Development Manager, Martin McEntee, who will have a wide-ranging role.

It’s all part of a clear strategy as to how we will achieve our goals and targets.

“Indeed, it is our staff who give us an added advantage over our competitors. We work as a high performing unit utilising the experience and skills of every individual so we can achieve the best performance for our products, for our customers.”

Managing industry transition

“We currently have a highly experienced sales team with a wide ranging skill set. Both Phil and Dan are extremely �lexible and although they both have different designated sales areas, either could be called upon to support any major sales opportunities that arise. It is very

much a modern sales team with one key focus,” explained Phil Owen.

“Our current challenge within the team is to manage the industry transition from Euro 5 to Euro 6 and make sure that the operators have all of the knowledge they require to make informed decisions on their �leet purchasing requirements.”

However, Phil Owen is also quick to point out that it is not just traditional sales which his team are managing. “As I mentioned earlier, we have a very modern sales team and they are required to be fully up-to-speed with all of the different initiatives that the company is promoting. So, for instance, Volvo Bus now has a dedicated smart phone app, which is available and free to download for all customers. The sales team have iPhones and they use them to demonstrate the new technology to operators while on the go. A new iPad sales tool has also been developed to further improve the sales process with customers. We’ve also been extremely pro-active with our social media and regular updates are promoted through the @ VolvoBusUK account.

“The Coach and Bus Live Show at the NEC in Birmingham in October was a key stage in bringing our Euro 6 range to market, and our readiness was apparent to the many visitors to our stand,” added Phil Owen.

Looking ahead to 2014, he concluded: “What I’m most looking forward to is proving to operators that we have really listened to their key requirements from a modern vehicle. Fuel, weight and maintainability are all areas that they asked us to focus on and, at Euro 6, our products and packages deliver in all these three key areas. We very much see our customer relationships as progressive partnerships.”■

Contact Volvo Bus & Coach Sales Centre in Coventry on 02476 210250. Visit www.volvobuses.com/bus/global/en-gb

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SUPPLIER FOCUS › TRAFFILOG

Miles ahead

Traffilog with

T

Traffilog prides itself on delivering a customer focussed, complete telematics solution. Sales Director Howard Young talks to Andy Izatt about its strong customer proposition which has already won over some leading industry names

raffilog has been a pioneer of multidimensional telematics, increasingly regarded as an essential business tool for delivering cost effective, efficient bus and coach operation. Its proposition, closely tailored to individual customer needs, includes driver’s risk profiling, real-time alerts, fuel management, mechanical diagnostics, driver mechanical skills and vehicle predictive diagnostics as well as tracking.

Mistral’s Mark Hodder explained why his company chose Traffilog. “It was important to us to ensure that any solution we recommended to our clients had clearly defined benefits for them and us,” he said. “I have seen many systems that can offer tracking or driver profiling but the EcoTracker system is the only one which seems to offer the complete suite of services that meet our customer’s needs. Each client can choose 22 | COACH & BUS WEEK | December 11, 2013

022_025_CBW1117_Traffilog.indd 22

what services they want initially and if they decide to add additional functionality later it can be tuned on instantaneously without having to go back to the vehicles.”

Founded in Israel, Traffilog has been operating in the UK since 2007 and wasted no time making an impression in the bus and coach market. Alexander Dennis (ADL) was trialling different telematics systems at the time because it wanted to monitor how its hybrid buses were being driven and maintained while they were under warranty. Traffilog was able to provide the right solution which became a line manufacture installation.

With ADL’s Enviro400Hs entering service with operators around the country, it was a real opportunity to build bridges with potential customers. “It meant we could go to those customers with ADL and give them a free trial,” said Traffilog Sales Director Howard Young.

“Look at the information we can give you. Would this be of interest to you?”

A second significant business win in 2007 consolidated Traffilog’s position. The successful trial of its technology in 28 National Express West Midlands buses led to a contract to equip all 1,650 buses in the fleet. The operator had asked whether it was possible to integrate driver ID with the Parkeon Wayfarer ticket machines it was using and Traffilog was able to provide a solution.

Also included in the deal was training for more than 3,500 drivers at 11 depots over three months. Then there was training for 11 General Managers, 11 Operations Managers, 15 driver training officers and more than 50 traffic/ administration staff on the relevant parts of the software application.

During the initial pilot fuel consumption was reduced by 7% and there was a 73% reduction www.coachandbusweek.com

09/12/2013 19:27

The dashboard DMAS display gives clear feedback for the driver in what Traffilog descried as ‘safety events’ where the data indicates harsh acceleration, braking, turning and speeding - within the first six months of the project. Engineering Support Manager Technical, Ges Poole said: “The standard of the installation was first class, so much so that it was difficult to see that any installation had been carried out. The installers had clearly done their homework and knew exactly where to connect.”

The business relationship with National Express Group was not to stop there. A dual supplier policy meant that Traffilog was not considered eligible to equip the coach fleet, but Howard lives not far from Salsburgh in Scotland, home to Bruces Coaches. The 12-vehicle operator is an important contractor for National Express and it was persuaded to install telematics to particularly take advantage of the driver profiling capability. Prizes were

phone number of over 43%.

Alex Perry, then Operations Director Coach – National Express, said: “We also needed a supplier that would develop further enhancements that became apparent over the life of the project as we could not foresee all of the possibilities at the time of awarding the contract. Traffilog has demonstrated that willingness to work alongside us and provide such enhancements.”

It wasn’t long before a growing number of National Express contractors decided to have Traffilog telematics installed across its fleets. They included respected industry names such as Travel de Courcey, Lucketts, Edwards, Selwyns, Excelsior, Parks of Hamilton, and Galloway Travel Group. “It was quite a testament for us,” said Howard. “It gave us the foundation to grow.”

As Traffilog’s reputation has grown so more

introduced to reward the most fuel efficient drivers and habits were changed leading to an 8% reduction in fuel consumption. “Driver profiling was still very new then,” recalled Howard. “The drivers became totally absorbed by it.”

National Express gave PricewaterhouseCoopers the task of evaluating potential telematics suppliers for the coaches operated by all 46 contractors. Because of the successful Bruces experience, Traffilog was allowed to tender and it won the contract in 2010.

The arduous nature of the diagrams meant it took almost six months to make all of the installations. Many of the 515 coaches were utilised up to 21 hours per day and some did not return to their depots for four to seven days at a time. They were covering around 68 million miles per year. Average fuel consumption reductions varied between operators, but were as high as 7%. The number and severity of safety events was reduced by over 40%.

Perhaps the most significant measure of success was the reduction in calls to the ‘well driven’

high profile names have been added to the list – companies such as Greys of Ely, Guildford’s Safeguard Coaches and Marshalls of Leighton Buzzard.

Mistral is offering EcoTracker as an option on all new Alexander Dennis Enviro200s. After trialling the system, it found a wide range of cost and operational benefits including; improvements to fuel consumption, better driving styles, a reduction in vehicle downtime and improved real-time information on vehicle performance.

Success isn’t just confined to the UK or the bus and coach sector. The ESB (Electricity Supply Board) in Ireland has installed telematics across its 2,500-strong fleet. The 600 vehicles operated

by Northern Ireland Water have also received the system, as have many other UK utility companies.

Arriva’s Scandinavia operation was particularly interested in driver profiling and Traffilog’s system was installed in 2,500 vehicles over three months. As well as a 10.2% fuel saving, there was a 75% reduction in idling in the first year. Fuel savings continued to be

“Standard of the installation was first class... it was difficult to see any installation had been carried out”

g

Key customers National Express and Parks of Hamilton, owner of this coach www.coachandbusweek.com

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Working with ADL on its hybrid programme gave Traffilog a UK opening December 11, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 23 09/12/2013 19:27

SUPPLIER FOCUS › TRAFFILOG A BRIEF PROFILE

Traf�ilog

As competition to supply telematics has intensi�ied, Traf�ilog has stayed ahead of the game by re�ining its proposition. “An increasing number of companies were offering driver pro�iling and some of those products were very good,” he said. “We needed to differentiate ourselves in the market and add value for customers.

“Traditionally, driver pro�iling measured accelerating, braking, turning and speeding using a G-sensor on the vehicle so we launched driver mechanical pro�iling which also analysed the mission (the journey).” Taken into account was driving style as there can be considerable variation – stop start bus operation compared to a coach cruising on a motorway for example – as well as rpm (Revs Per minute) and how full the vehicle was by measuring the torque on the engine.

An on-board Driver Manoeuvre Alert System (DMAS) with a range of lights from green to red tells the driver instantly how he or she is performing and generates an ‘ECO Driving’ assessment for the operator, data that can also be shared with the driver.

“We don’t just provide the information,” he continued. “Reporting is web-based. Every

switching the engine off at the end of a shift.

What might seem to a driver as being a little thing can cause avoidable damage. Refurbishing turbos alone can cost £1,500- £2,000 per year and that campaign saved the operator around 50% of the cost of replacement turbos. It all comes under what we call driver mechanical skills. It’s about changing habits – encouraging a signi�icant improvement in driving skills and best practices, not making a judgement on what is good or bad driving.

“Some telematics companies will over estimate fuel savings at more than 10%. 5-6% savings over three to six months is more typical from driver pro�iling. To get 10% you need driver mechanical skills and we’re the only company in the world offering that. It tells you what the problem is and what needs to be done to put it right.

“It’s not just about fuel savings, but also about reducing wear and tear, reduced breakdown and lost mileage. If you don’t use the information and get drivers believing what you tell them, the whole thing falls down.

It’s important that we make it as simple as possible for customers to see what’s going on. They shouldn’t have to go looking for the information.”

Report generation is tailored to each customer’s requirement. Data covering the whole �leet could typically show average fuel consumption and how much could be saved if all drivers drove as well as the top 10%.

G-sensor information will show how ef�iciently they drove and can compare that with a set

customer has its own login and can decide who has privileges from the MD down to drivers, but that only allows operators to see the data.

Our Active Centre (pro-active customer contact centre) adds an additional dimension as providing monitoring for our customers we can give them advice as well.”

‘Campaigns’ can be used to focus on addressing particular issues. “Idling is an issue for a lot of operators,” pointed out Howard.

“Some systems, for example, will report idling because the G-sensor says the vehicle isn’t moving and the ignition is on, but that could just be because the driver wants to listen to the radio. The engine might not actually be running at all. Our system can tell if a vehicle is travelling at less than 1mph and if the engine rpm is below 200.

“We can allow for authorised idling if that’s what the customer wants – when a coach is stopped at the motorway services at 0200hrs in the morning for a break or a driver changeover for example. We did that for Bruces Coaches, but it still turned out that 70% of their idling was in the depot yard. The DMAS can be set to �lash red and bleep if idling occurs for longer than a set period – say �ive minutes – and a report recorded for management.

“Another campaign we ran monitored if drivers were waiting 30 seconds before

previous period. The 10 most inef�icient drivers could be listed along with their performances.

Then there are driver reports that can go to each driver as well as management. They could be distributed along with payslips and could include employer comments. Alternatively, if there are issues that need to be addressed in person, a supervisor could sit down with the driver and go through what’s been highlighted.

There shouldn’t be any surprises because the DMAS will have provided the driver with necessary feedback at the time of any ‘safety events’.

Preventative maintenance diagnostics including fault code identi�ication are available from vehicle manufacturers and sometimes it’s included in the purchase price, but it’s supplier speci�ic. For operators that multisource their vehicles – the majority – Traf�ilog can not only provide diagnostics for each type, subject to re�inement over seven to 10 days, it can also tailor the monitoring to speci�ic buses and coaches. Again, reporting can be tailored to whatever meets the requirements of the �leet engineer.

A Traf�ilog predictive maintenance ‘doctor’s note’ can diagnose in advance of servicing and routine maintenance, identify the parts required and even order them. Again, the Active Centre can provide a more personal service for

around 11% in subsequent (three) years.

In addition to ADL, Traf�ilog is preferred supplier to Iveco, Yutong and New Flyer. Around 160,000 vehicles in 27 countries now have its telematics – a combined 10 billion km of data experience.

Re�ining the proposition

Traffilog Sales Director, Howard Young said: “Look at the information we can give you” Traffilog was founded in Israel 10 years ago.

Unlike most telematics companies which start by offering GPS vehicle tracking and then develop into driver profiling and diagnostics, it initially offered a cost effective diagnostics service that was designed to establish why a vehicle had broken down. Traffilog is now the leading telematics company in Israel.

The company started to grow internationally in 2006 and now has subsidiaries in Germany, Mexico, China and North America as well as UK. Based at Elstree, Hertfordshire, it employs 27 staff including fulltime installers who make all the installations.

Traffilog describes itself as a leading provider of web-based mobile resources management, fleet management and mobile assets solutions that provide customers with significant fuel savings of up to 16%, mean time between failure improvement up to 70%, and up to a 75% decrease in aggressive driver behaviour and safety events.

Solutions are based on proprietary technology that combines vehicle and driver diagnostics, providing drivers and fleet managers with personalised real-time alerts and periodic reports that ultimately improve driving behaviour and vehicle mechanical maintenance.

Modular and flexible web-based systems are tailored to meet customers’ individual needs. The company’s mission is to provide solutions that dramatically improve fleet management operation and administration, with a focus on assisting organisations and managers to reduce fleet running costs and increase overall fleet efficiency.

Products include TraffiSafe, which notifies dangerous and inefficient driving and is designed to change driving culture while improving safety and reducing maintenance costs. With TraffiSkill mechanical and technical driver behaviour data is received in real-time or through periodic reports as a result of connecting to the vehicle’s computer system. TraffiMech provides essential real-time information on the mechanical performance of vehicles and fuel utilisation.

TraffiView uses GPS and a cellular modem to deliver a location-based service that provides continuous real-time fleet monitoring and control.

24 | COACH & BUS WEEK | December 11, 2013 022_025_CBW1117_Traffilog.indd 24

“To get 10% (fuel savings) you need driver mechanical skills and we’re the only company offering that”

www.coachandbusweek.com

09/12/2013 19:27

Added value comes from the customer service delivered by the Active Centre operators, highlighting issues that have been identi�ied.

Just one example is the charge state of batteries which are continuously monitored.

Any issues can be noti�ied by alert management and advised whether a trickle charge or a replacement is required. “Predictive maintenance is an option and we ask every new customer if they want it or not,” said Howard.

Single data platform goal

Traf�ilog can offer so much more. Its MDT (Mobile Data Terminal) has a ‘satnav’ capability selecting a route that avoids low bridges and is as safe and traf�ic free as possible. It also contains a bank of saved and frequent locations as well as points of interest. They could, for example, be bus stops. Two-way messaging is available as is ‘Bluetooth’ and a walk round �irst

use check option.

Traf�ilog’s technology is compatible with safety aids such as Mobileye’s lane departure which will also pick up on ‘tailgating’. Howard pointed out that lane departure without indicating is the biggest cause of accidents at night. “Everything we do is con�igurable,” he emphasised. “The customer always comes �irst and we can adapt.”

If there is an accident involving a bus or a coach, having access to as much information as possible can make dealing with the

“Everything we do is configurable. The customer always comes first and we can adapt”

consequences much easier for the operator. Telematics can be a powerful defence from complainants and helping to establish what happened for insurance companies or when legal proceedings might result.

Traf�ilog already works with CCTV suppliers and is expecting to launch an integrated system early next year that will be able to tell operators if the equipment is working and accurately identify telematics date with ‘footage’ from a particular incident. “As always, reports can be customised to whatever is required,” added Howard.

Reports can be tailored to meet whatever the customer requires www.coachandbusweek.com

022_025_CBW1117_Traffilog.indd 25

Traf�ilog has signed a framework agreement with Vix Technology for the development of a single user interface that will combine telematics with real-time passenger information, passenger infotainment and next stop announcements – to deliver next generation converged devices says the companies. National Express’ coach tracker app was developed in conjunction with uTrack. A website iframe also displays the position of the coach – a re�inement that other operators are now requesting for their websites.

“Combining tracking, ticketing, CCTV, WiFi, tachograph and AVL is the next big thing,” said Howard. “Our unit is a platform that can be used by every digital interface. It requires only one SIM card which has the capacity to feed all of the information and needs of an operator.”

All customer data is stored by Traf�ilog for three years in a readily accessible format although it will also be retained for a total of seven years. “What we do is give customers the key information they need to help them run their businesses,” he continued. “They can’t ignore it because it saves them money. Idling alone will usually save them the cost of our solution. The return on investment level for a National Express coach was below 1% of the total fuel consumption.

“We manufacture everything in-house in Israel. A rental contract is for three years. So far over 95% have renewed after that. When we �irst started we used to offer customers a free three-month trial with an assurance that we would de-install if they weren’t happy. We never have to do that anymore. These days we recommend people talk to some of our existing clients. 50% of what we do is the technology.

The other 50% is the partnership we have with our customers. It’s very exciting times for telematics.” ■

December 11, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 25 09/12/2013 19:27

REVIEWS › BOOKS

A Scottish legend There are many family-owned bus and coach operators, but none have a story to tell quite like the Craig family of Campbeltown. This book tells their story West Coast Motors, A Celebration of 90 Years Service is a 96-page book published by Venture Publications and written by Ian Stubbs to mark an important anniversary for one of the country’s best known and most respected family-owned operators, Craig of Campbeltown.

Founded by three Craig brothers, it was William S Craig who developed the bus and coach operation. Son, Robert Craig became Chairman on his father’s death in 1972, but retired from that position at the end of 1989, selling his shareholding to his own brother William the following year.

William’s eldest son, Ian joining the business in 1989 and is now Chief Executive Officer of Lothian Buses.

Younger brother, Colin was appointed Managing Director of Craig of

Campbeltown in 2001.

West Coast Motors has prospered despite many challenges, not least its remote geographic location, based as it is in Campbeltown near the southern tip of the Kintyre Peninsula. It operates in one of the most beautiful parts of Scotland, a point reflected in many of the photogaphs.

This is a tenacious business that has worked hard to grow organically and grasp any opportunities that come its way. Group businesses include Glasgow Citybus and City Sightseeing Glasgow based some 130 miles from Campbeltown. Fairline Coaches, also of Glasgow, was acquired after this book went to press, but underlines there are still chapters to be written about this 175-vehicle operation. We look forward to the 100th anniversary update.

Foundations for the business

Much has been written about Midland Red, but this book approaches the subject from quite a different angle A new title from publisher Ian Allan is Malcolm Keeley’s Midland Red Bus Garages.

Using a combination of pictures, many of them colour, and brief descriptions of each facility, Malcolm who is an acknowledged Midland Red expert, takes a different view of his subject focussing on the operator’s property development rather than its vehicles that in his own words “hopefully will be a small tribute to the work of the BMMO (Birmingham & Midland Motor Omnibus Co Ltd) Architect’s Department.”

Even so, most of the pictures that illustrate this work are of vehicles and for those with an interest in this well-known fleet there is a visual feast in store. All are quality images reproduced to a high standard.

Midland Red had other properties as well as its garages, most importantly Carlyle Works in Edgbaston, Birmingham, but there were also enquiry offices, staff hostels and dwellings acquired with land and rented out. This book can’t realistically cover it at all, but nevertheless deserves to be treated as a definitive point of reference. It’s priced at £30.00.

West Coast Motors territory. Priced at £15.00 it represents very good value for money.

Venture Publications, 128 Pikes Lane, Glossop, Derbyshire, SK13 8EH. Tel: 01457 861508, E-mail: info@ venturepublications.co.uk, Website: www.venturepublications.co.uk

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26 | COACH & BUS WEEK | December 11, 2013 026_CBW1117_Reviews.indd 26

With the rest of Scotland a long way from Campbeltown, it’s no surprise that this innovative business has found different ways to grow, not least introducing a ferry service to Ballycastle in Northern Ireland.

“The greatest asset in a business of this size is its personnel,” says Robert (Bob) Craig in the Foreword.

“Its loyal and skilled employees and its energetic, third generation management will do much to ensure it will continue to prosper.”

With 247 pictures, most of them in colour, this book not only tells the Craig story, it describes previous services operated in what is now

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We welcome contributions for this column. Please email your missive to gareth.evans@coachandbusweek. com or by post to The Editor, Coach and Bus Week magazine, 3 The Office Village, Cygnet Park, Forder Way, Hampton, Peterborough, PE7 8GX. Alternatively, feel free to use the ‘private message’ function on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/coachandbusweek and Twitter @CBWtweets.

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Like and interact with us at https://www.facebook.com/ coachandbusweek

Q: Editor Gareth is off to konectbus for a Go-Ahead East Anglia update. Any questions? Usual caveats.

Moss – How long will they be keeping their Leyland National? ● Joe ‘Thorpey’ Thorpe – Any more plans to expand the business? ● Gareth Perkins – What are their plans for Norwich and is Anglian going to be confined to Yarmouth, Lowestoft and North Suffolk? ● Tim

Q: What’s the strangest bus/ coach complaints you’ve come across?

Cooper – Took a party to Longleat and around the bloody wildlife park...the complaint was that the lions hadn’t moved. ● Mark Harrison – Man complaining about his free river cruise that hasn’t turned up, he’s was standing at the Oxford Circus bus stop. ● Stephen Maull – Where the customer is screaming at you down the phone where is the bus then they remember it’s the wrong coach company they rang. ● Scott Williams – Passenger rang up to complain that she missed the bus as it was on time! ● Dave

CBW TRADE

TWEETS The TAS Partnership @TASPartnership

Section 22 operators: clarification Having recently been awarded 11 new routes from Centro of the week for operation from October 27 I can only assume the author is referring to West Midlands Special Needs Transport (WMSNT).

He is of course correct that Section 22 drivers do not have to hold a CPC but for the life of me I cannot understand why that should be so, it is a professional qualification that all drivers should hold. This is the reason why, as mentioned in a recent article that appeared in Coach and Bus Week, all drivers working for WMSNT will hold CPC and why WMSNT is also an accredited training centre. We have trained other operators’ staff and I would guess that WMSNT may well have spent in excess of £13,000 in training and accreditation. WMSNT employs 790 staff in its three divisions and it may interest readers that working alongside the local Bournville College, we have trained in excess of 680 staff to NVQ level 2 or above. As an aside we also provide care training to over 700 staff employed by local authorities and all our staff, be they drivers or others, go through at least five days of induction when starting and have refreshers every three years Our fleet of vehicles has an average age of just under five years and only this week we have introduced four brand new Optare Solos to operate on one of the routes we have recently won. I also have no real idea why Section 22 operators have to give only 28 days’ notice of new registrations but is there an advantage above commercial operators in doing so although I can see a slight advantage in only providing 28 days for deregistration.

We won all the routes through a fair and transparent process and we are subject to the same scrutiny through VOSA as any other operator but unlike some when we started operating Section 22 we asked VOSA staff to help us to ensure we were abiding by all

LETTER

WMSNT has a growing contract local bus operation using Section 22 current rules and regulations, we have nothing to hide and everything to be proud of.

One of the routes we recently started running was featured in the local Sunday press prior to our operation as being a waste of public money and the few passengers it carried would be better served by taxis than travelling on the multi-national company that were operating it at the time. After only four weeks of operation by WMSNT, the same newspaper printed how amazed they were that WMSNT has increased patronage by 16% and growing. A Sunday service dropped by another multi-national was operated

by WMSNT at the request, and at his cost, of a local Councillor. I am pleased to say that after only 12 weeks that route is now so popular that Centro has decided to go to tender because it now fits their subsidy standards.

How do we do it then? It is because we employ and train good staff, we use reliable vehicles and we will not pull vehicles off less profitable routes to serve other more profitable ones.

We communicate well with all our passengers and respond immediately to any comments, and yes complaints, they may have. Finally we retain our

staff. Indeed we have a waiting list, because we give them regular work, we pay them holiday pay, we pay them sick pay, we pay for pensions, we make sure they all have suitable and functional uniforms but most of all I do not expect them to do any duty that I am not capable of doing myself.

Finally despite the fact we hold an “O“ licence, PD000129, all my commercial colleagues can be assured that we have no intention of attempting to cream off from main line profitable bus routes, I cannot see the point, but what we do is serve the routes that interlink with main line services and therefore improve public transport services in the West Midlands.

I would very much like to meet the MD of the local bus operator if only to convince him that I am the Operations Manager of a very reputable and long founded operation and very, very proud to be so. He may also be interested to hear that I have in the past been a guest speaker on mini bus safety issues for Pat Harris’ very commendable BUSK organisation.

Des Rogers, FCILT Operations Manager WMSNT Ltd

Christmas Markets coach parking Cake by the trade mags @ TASPartnership HQ earlier this week!

Further to your request about Christmas Market coach parking, I feel yet again Bury St Edmunds sets a fine example.

A properly organised drop-off and pick-up point close to the main market and fair area and free from congestion, free parking out of town

28 | COACH & BUS WEEK | December 11, 2013 028_CBW1117_Letters.indd 28

in a properly surfaced coach park with facilities, a free shuttle for drivers back into town and a system easily able to cope with 50 or more coaches on each day. An easy system to use with accurate information sent to us in advance, full information for passengers and the end result being

happy drivers, happy customers and repeat visits every year. Well done to all the team at Bury St Edmunds Council.

Mike Pearson, Tours Manager, Truemans Travel

www.coachandbusweek.com

09/12/2013 20:34

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MOVEMBER SPECIAL

Hair today, gone tomorrow Gareth Evans reports on a cross-section of the industry who have grown tashes in aid of Movember

team stant eark

30 | COACH & BUS WEEK | December 11, 2013 030_033_CBW1117_Movember.indd 30

www.coachandbusweek.com

09/12/2013 19:26

I

n recent weeks, you may have noticed coach and bus professionals apparently going against contemporary fashion by growing moustaches – and for those who allow their facial hair to grow in everyday life, they’re been sporting some extra elaborate whiskers. Why? Because they’ve been doing their bit for ‘Movember’. Far from being a typo for the eleventh month of the Christian calendar, those taking part aim to raise vital funds and awareness for prostate and testicular cancer and mental health. As an independent global charity, Movember’s vision is to have an everlasting impact on the face of men’s health.

In just a decade ‘Movember’ has grown from a few friends in Australia raising awareness of men’s health issues to a global phenomenon in which over three million men and women have participated, raising millions of pounds for research.

With news of sterling examples reaching the CBW office, we felt it was time to give them the recognition they deserve.

Team spirit

www.coachandbusweek.com

030_033_CBW1117_Movember.indd 31

By far and above the top of the leader board in terms of funds raised in our industry is Maynes of Buckie. As this issue went to press, the Maynes team had raised a staggering £8,684 – after gaining support from right across the coach industry.

As well as the team of men taking part, Maynes also had its coaches sporting moustaches to become its ‘Mocoaches’ which travelled all over the UK. A competition was also run for the best ‘spot’ of the special coach on its travels with the best picture awarded a Corgi model Maynes Coach. Another competition was to guess the date of the snowman soft toy for a chance to win him. The snowman had been on his travels throughout Scotland on day trips and the occasional tour. A Facebook auction was also held and two limited edition Corgi models went up for grabs with the Bova going for £120 and the Vanhool for £260.

Speaking to CBW last week, Kevin Mayne said: “Our whole team did their bit for men’s health from all our drivers to our engineers and directors even our ‘Mo Sistas’ in the office got involved to help the Mo Team on their way. It has surpassed all our expectations. What a great effort from everyone.

“A massive thank you to everyone who has donated – from fellow coach operators to friends, family, colleagues and of course our passengers – and from fellow industry professionals to generous suppliers and business folk. From £1 to £500, we have had many variations of collections and donations, all have been welcomed appreciated and for each and every pound on behalf of the team we thank you all.

Also taking part for the first time was Morse Coaches of Sherriff Hutton, near York.

The firm’s Managing Director Andrew Morse said: “I don’t know how much we’ve raised as yet but I must admit we did it more to raise awareness and to have a but of fun.

“One of our clients did it last year and we thought that if they can do it, so can we. You’d be surprised at the number of people who have asked us why we’re growing tashes. You

December 11, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 31 09/12/2013 19:26

MOVEMBER SPECIAL Top left: Woodsy the tweeting coach. Top middle: Office staff at Woods of Bognor Regis offered their support. Top far right: The Maynes of Buckie team pose proudly with their cheque. Bottom left: Shearings’ IT team got into the spirit of Movember.

Bottom middle: The Oxford Bus Company crew after shaving their tashes. Bottom right: Unwin’s Rob Butcher, Gary Cox and Gareth Ingersent see my dad (Norman), one of the founders of our firm, died in July of prostate cancer. Half a dozen of us took part. Team members included Jack Cartwright, Robert Fairlie, Andrew Morse, Ben Hart, John ‘Barnsey’ Milburn and ‘Tarby’ (Ronald) Pearson.”

Another coach operator taking part was Woods Travel of Bognor Regis.

Tina Shaw-Morton, Director told CBW: “Taking part in Movember was the Paul, our Transport Manager’s idea. The suggestion was met with overwhelming enthusiasm from the drivers and indeed, our staff as a whole. We had collection boxes on our coaches and even Woodsy, the tweeting coach got in on the act with his own Movember Moustache. It was great fun.”

Participating drivers included Mike, Eddie, Rob, James, Robby, Tim, Rod, Simon, Gerry, Tom, and our two Pauls – in addition to our MD Roger Elsmere.

Members of Shearings’ IT team, who work in the Systems department at the firm’s Wigan head office grew moustaches and by the end of the month, were itching to shave them off. They included Christopher Martin, Peter Sharples, Mark Williams and Bryan Eastham.

Explaining the reasons for taking part, Mark Williams, Director of Systems said: “We chose to take part in Movember because it’s a very worthwhile cause that needs more coverage.

It’s also something which is reasonably easy thing to do as a team, as you don’t have to climb a mountain or jump out of a plane. The only danger involved was a backlash from the women in our lives!”

To date the team has raised £500, but donations are continuing to come in.

On the supply side of our industry, a threestrong team from Unwin Safety Systems did their bit. It comprised HR Co-ordinator & Credit Controller Gareth Ingersent, Senior Sales Adviser Gary Cox and Director of Engineering Rob Butcher.

Asked why he took part, Gary Cox replied: “I hadn’t done it before and I wanted to see what I looked like with a moustache, but the main reason was to raise money for the cause.”

All three of them shaved their ‘tashes off again pretty sharpish at the start of December – Rob Butcher said it made his nose itch.

The final total raised remained to be confirmed at the time of going to press.

Turing to the bus sector, Go North East’s Customer Services Team raised £427 – after the firm’s Financial Director kindly agreed for the company to donate £150 to the group’s efforts. The members involved included James Grabham, Chris Wharton, Ian McDonald and Kurt Nessworthy.

The team from the Oxford Bus Company called themselves the the ‘Bus Co Mo Bros’ and managed to raise £449.

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John Hammond , acting Risk and Human Resources officer, said: “My own father died of prostate cancer which was not detected in time, so doing something to raise awareness of men’s health is important.”

Tim Grisbrooke, Customer Relations Officer said: “I decided to help with the fund-raising effort as I have first-hand experience of some of the issues that Movember campaigns to raise awareness of. I understand how difficult it can be to cope with these issues and men are often reluctant to talk about their health problems.

Movember funds various groups which support those affected by these problems, so it made sense to join in with the effort.

“Ultimately, I personally raised £75 and the team raised £449 through personal donations and the proceeds of a company bake sale. Great fun was had by all, as we all competed to see who could have the best looking tash. I don’t think anyone else was complimented on their moustache in front of a room full of 400 people though.”

A fellow ‘Bus Co Mo Bros’ team member, Daniel Warren, Customer Relations Officer explained: “The main reason I chose to take part was that my grandfather died of prostate cancer

about 15 years ago. It was heart breaking to lose my role model when I was only 13 years old.

“Last year I was diagnosed with something called prostatitis which is inflammation of the prostate, along with two testicular cysts.

My world came down around me when I was getting the pain and then found the lumps on my testicles. It was a massive relief to have been diagnosed quickly, bearing in mind my family history of male health issues. Therefore, the main reason I took part was to try and make people aware of how important it is to check yourself out and if in doubt, get your GP to check it out for you.

“There were good and bad parts of the experience for me – the worst being the itching and the worry that I looked scruffy. However, the best part was the fact I raised £55 for charity.

“During Movemeber I had a job interview for one of the new Duty Manager positions at a our sister company, Thames Travel and was worried that they may not think I was as presentable as they would hope for someone to be in that role. They understood I was raising money for charity and was successful with the job.

The tash was quickly named the lucky tash by www.coachandbusweek.com

09/12/2013 19:26

friends and family.”

Almost 50 drivers, engineers and managers from Stagecoach South West gave up their razors for a month in response to the rallying call from drivers Martin and Karen Milton to ‘grow a mo.’.

They each made a £10 donation to the charity and, with further donations rolling in from friends and family – plus a cheque for £300 from Stagecoach South West – the final fundraising total is expected to be in excess of £1,000.

Martin Milton commented: “When I first started talking about this at work, I never dreamed we’d end up with so many joining in and raising so much money – it’s been absolutely fantastic and I’d like to thank all of my colleagues who’ve been prepared to ‘grow a mo’ for the cause.”

The firm’s Managing Director Michael Watson added: “I’m very impressed at how many staff have taken part in this year’s Movember and I’m delighted to be able to make a donation of £300 on behalf of the company. Who knows? Maybe next year I’ll join in!”

From a shortlist of three, Martin and his fellow judges finally settled on driver Gav Riley as the winner. Martin explained: “ We agreed early www.coachandbusweek.com

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on it wouldn’t just be about who can grow the biggest or best moustache – but also someone who knows they’ll look ridiculous and is still goes for it anyway – and that’s why we picked Gav!” On learning he was the winner, Gav said: “I’ve grown quite attached to my ‘mo but it’s time to say goodbye – until next year that is!”

Gav was then treated to a traditional Turkish shave courtesy of Eyüp Sak, owner of Restyle Barber at 5 Iron Bridge, a short walk from Exeter’s High Street. All other entrants have been issued with disposable razors to help with mowing the ‘mo’ for another year.

A number of Go South Coast members of staff took part – they raised £2,894 across the firm’s operating companies.

Stacey Tucker, Commercial & Publicity Assistant at Bluestar said: “We created a Go South Coast Network, and our operating companies More bus, Bluestar, Salisbury Reds and Southern Vectis, went against each other to see which team could grow the most Mos and raise the most money. Our Directors even got involved.

“To link in with our Mo bros, we created a Mo monthly ticket on our mobile app. 10% of

the ticket price went to the Movember charity as well. This proved very popular with our customers – this element raised over £250 alone.”

Nikki Honer added: “As a male-dominated employer, we thought it would be great for us to get behind the Movember appeal. We also raised awareness by planting great big moustaches on the front of many of our buses.”

Speaking to CBW on Thursday, Nikki said the breakdown in numbers amounted broadly to “Just over just over £1,000 at Bluestar around £1,400 at more.”, Andrew Sherrington, Operations Manager at Salisbury depot grew a set of distinguished whiskers, a photo of which can be found on his personal Twitter feed @sherriah1983. He said he had raised £89, and added: “That’s from friends kindly donating £1 or £2 each.”

Not to be forgotten is Tony Smith from Arriva Southern Counties. “I did it for fun this year but last year I raised £150,” he explained. n

If this article has inspired to get you consider getting involed with Movember for next year, visit http:// uk.movember.com/

December 11, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 33 09/12/2013 19:26

LEGAL UPDATE

Judicial Review of Unfair Dismissal Compensation Cap

Steven Meyerhoff of Backhouse Jones examines the arguments surrounding the latest changes to unfair dismissal regulations in this week’s Legal Update

O

n July 29, 2013, the Government brought into force the Unfair Dismissal (Variation of the Limit of Compensatory Award) Order 2013 SI 2013/1949 in which it was given increased powers to cap the compensation limit.

The Government decided to impose a cap on compensation for dismissals after July 29 2013 to the lesser of 52 weeks’ salary or the �ixed compensation limit of £74,200.

The one year cap only applies to claims of unfair/constructive dismissal and does not extend to claims arising from health and safety disclosures, whistleblowing or discriminatory dismissals as was the case with the previous limit.

An employment law business which acts mainly on behalf of claimants is currently seeking to apply for a judicial review of the government’s newly imposed cap arguing that the new limit is a ‘disproportionate response’ by the government in their attempt to create a more stringent approach to the compensatory procedure.

They also argue that the new cap indirectly discriminates against elderly claimants or those on lower incomes. In particular, it is suggested that elderly claimants are likely to face several years of unemployment following an unfair dismissal and therefore it would be discriminatory to limit their award.

This is highlighted by the courts in MacCulloch v Imperial Chemical Industries plc where the EAT accepted that older workers face more dif�iculty in securing future employment than their more youthful counterparts. If the new cap is found to discriminate on the grounds of age, the order will be in contravention of the Equal Treatment Framework Directive 2000 as enacted into UK law by the Equality Act 2010.

It is argued that the impact assessment report conducted by BIS when considering the changes failed to recognise the unfavourable impact that the newly instated cap would have on older workers as the survey used in order to compile the report only monitored

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the candidates for one year and hence they were unable to correlate accurate information concerning the length of time unfairly dismissed employees remained out of work.

Therefore BIS were unable to assess the extent to which older claimants would disproportionately suffer as a result of their vulnerability in the job market.

It is suggested that a simple solution to this process would be to consider the amount of times a claimant had been paid more than the one year cap over the last �ive years and collate that with the ages of those who received the award.

In addition to these arguments, there is also an access to justice argument in seeking judicial review, as they propose that the compensatory cap will have an adverse effect on those thinking of bringing future claims for unfair dismissal.

As a consequence of the reduction on potential remuneration it is suggested that the claimants will seek to rely on the state by claiming bene�its in an attempt to remain �inancially stable throughout their period of unemployment following an unfair dismissal.

The Government is currently considering its response to this judicial review however this is the second review of laws brought in by the ERRA, after Unison judicial reviewed the decision to impose tribunal fees which also came into effect on July 29, 2013.

It is clear the Government’s proposals have given claimants

something to think about which can only be good news for businesses.

However, the response to these judicial reviews could again impact how Employment Tribunals approach matters which in turn may affect the impact of Employment Tribunal proceedings on businesses.

Case Law Update: Lockwood v Department for Work and Pensions & Anor

In this case, the Court of Appeal upheld the Employment Tribunal’s decision clarifying that enhanced redundancy pay for older workers does not constitute age discrimination, reversing the

The bus market regulrly sees drivers switching firms via TUPE when Transport for London route contracts pass from one operator to another www.coachandbusweek.com

09/12/2013 20:37

It has been argued that new unfair dismissal rules discriminate against older workers and those on low incomes

court’s first instance decision that the age distinction between the employee and an older comparator could not be objectively justified.

L had worked for the Department for Works and Pensions (DWP) for eight years when her employers announced the introduction of a voluntary redundancy scheme coinciding with her position within the department being deemed superfluous to requirements.

Her redundancy pay was calculated according to the Civil Service Compensation Scheme (CSCS) which works on a graduated age-dependent calculation. L, who was in her twenties, was entitled to £10,849.04 when she elected to take voluntary redundancy as opposed to her 35 year old comparator who would have received an additional £17,690.58 if she had elected voluntary redundancy.

L therefore brought a claim to the employment tribunal arguing that the difference in payment amounted to direct discrimination under the Age Discrimination Act which is now incorporated in the Equality Act 2010.

The case proceeded to the Court of Appeal who agreed with the Employment Tribunal’s decision that the graduated approach adopted by the company was necessary when presented www.coachandbusweek.com

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with statistical evidence which highlighted that in general younger employees were able to adapt to redundancy more easily.

Those who fell into the older categories were shown to have more familial and financial commitments than those employees in their twenties in addition to finding it more difficult to gain future employment than their more youthful counterparts.

Conclusion

Therefore, given the nature of the scheme which entails designating funds from a limited pot of money to employees who have varying needs and ages, the Court of Appeal deemed the CSCS graduated age scheme to be proportionate.

The decision in this case further demonstrates the requirements of businesses to consider policies and procedures which may ultimately be considered discriminatory at an early stage and seek to provide justification for that policy before it is brought into effect.

The approach taken by the Tribunal’s is important for businesses as it shows the willingness of the Tribunal’s to consider reasonable arguments of justification even in the face of policies which could be considered directly discriminatory.

In the Pipeline: TUPE or not TUPE: TUPE Draft Regulations The changes to the TUPE Regulations were mooted as the biggest changes to the employment legislation since the implementation of The Agency Worker Regulations. Radical changes were initially proposed, but these changes have now been watered down and will now clarify existing case law rather than overturn the rules.

Draft TUPE Regulations have been published and are to be put before parliament in December this year with the changes expected to come into force in January 2014.

The draft regulations mirror the outcome of the Government’s response to the consultation on the proposed changes to TUPE published in September this year.

Most of the amendments to the regulations are to have prospective effect, only applying to transfers which occur on or after the date the regulations come into force.

However, transitional time limits have been proposed in relation to the amendments concerning employee liability information and consultation obligations for microbusinesses of three and six months respectively.

The amendments have not been

as significant as expected, however some important changes to the regulations have been proposed.

The government have reversed their original decision to remove the rules on service provision changes. However, the draft regulations stipulate that a service provision change will occur where post-transfer activities are “fundamentally the same as the activities carried out previously.”

The draft regulations allow transferees to collectively consult with transferring employees before the transfer if the transferor agrees.

A new regulation has been included in the TUPE draft incorporating the ECJ’s decision in Alemo & Ors v Parkwood Leisure Ltd [2013] that where a contract includes provisions of collective agreements agreed from time to time, collective terms agreed subsequent to the date of transfer which do not have the transferee’s involvement will not automatically transfer.

Any variation to an employee’s contract will be declared void if the reason for the variation is the transfer. However, variation will be allowed should the variation be considered an economical, technical or organisational (ETO) reason for change.

Post-transfer changes to location amount to an ETO reason and therefore will not necessarily be considered unfair.

The time limit for providing employee liability information to the transferee has been increased from 14 days to 28 days.

Micro-businesses (those with fewer than 10 employees) may engage in direct consultation with employees where there are no other appropriate representatives.

Backhouse Jones acts for clients in the private and public sector, both national and international operators from one to several thousand vehicles.

Backhouse is absolutely “industry specific.” Whilst the company can trace its heritage to 1819 it only represented its first Road Transport Operator in 1930. The explanation for this is that the first transport act was only introduced in 1930.

The Independent Chambers Guide 2009 describes Backhouse Jones Limited as a specialist company with a national reputation for “first class strength, experience and understanding of the transport industry.”

December 11, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 35 09/12/2013 20:38

THE BIG PICTURE Ensignbus held its annual Christmas Local Area Vintage Running Day on Saturday (see story on p10 of this issue). Two routes were operated, the X81 between Shenfield, Brentwood, Lakeside and Grays, and service X55 linking Upminster with Gravesend via Lakeside and Bluewater. Day tickets valid on all Ensignbus’ local services were available at £8 for adults and £4 for children. A family day ticket, for two adults and two children, was priced at £22. As in previous years, there were a number of surprises and vehicle debuts which help give the event a fresh feel, but one of its great attractions is the atmosphere created by the time of year. John King took this picture of London Transport Leyland PD2 RTL453 in Gravesend, which captures it all. The bus entered service in 1949, passing into preservation in 1970.

It was owned by the same group for 40 years before being donated to Ensignbus and certified and tested for passenger carrying duties in 2010.

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09/12/2013 21:16

DELIVERIES SEAT-BELTED VERSA IS SAFER WITH SAFEGUARD Having seat belts, a tachograph and high-backed seats fitted in its new Optare Versa has brought extra flexibility for Surrey independent operator Safeguard Coaches of Guildford.

The company, which celebrates its 90th anniversary next year, will use the Versa on its busy town circular routes 4 and 5, which take in the Royal Surrey County Hospital. With seat belts and a tachograph fitted, the bus can also be made available for private hires by local schools where the journeys are short.

Added comfort comes from the specification of high back Rescroft CT Lite seats with an integral head restraint.

The Versa’s also provides easy accessiblilty for people with disabilities, via a simple fold-out ramp with a shallow gradient, which leads to a spacious wheelchair bay on the offside.

Managing Director Andrew Halliday says this brings added advantage where a school party includes a person in a wheelchair, the entire party can travel together in one vehicle. He said the company strongly supports safer school bus transport through its membership and active support of the campaigning organisation BUSK. “This is now the fourth

Versa in our fleet and these additional features allow us to use it alongside the other three on regular service work but we are also able to take it off that from time to time to use for private hires, particularly school parties on local trips,” he said.

“Since Versa is a model we already operate, it ensures a greater degree of commonality across the fleet. From our experience we know we have a tried and tested product our drivers and passengers like and which delivers good fuel efficiency.”

The new Versa is an 11.1 metre model powered by a six-cylinder Euro 5 Cummins ISBe 6.7 litre engine. With a power output of 201 bhp (150 kW) at 2,300 rpm, this can cope easily with the local hilly terrain without compromising on fuel economy. The engine is mated to a five speed Allison 2100 Series automatic gearbox with an inbuilt lockup torque converter which, along with a Klam electromagnetic retarder, also aids fuel efficiency.

Seating is for 37 of which 34 are fixed and three are

TWO MORE SCANIA IRIZAR I6 COACHES JOIN BLUE IRIS OF NAILSEA

38 | COACH & BUS WEEK | December 11, 2013 038_039_CBW1117_Deliveries.indd 38

tip-ups in the wheelchair bay. Mobitec LED destination equipment was specified.

Optare Sales Director, John Horn, said: “We’re delighted Safeguard has again chosen Versa based on its good experience of the models already in service. The flexibility of our assembly processes at the Sherburn facility meant we were able to meet their specific requirements in respect of the seating and the tachograph. It has given Safeguard the added flexibility to use the bus in different ways that could

Blue Iris Coaches of Nailsea, near Bristol, has strengthened its ties with Scania and Irizar through the addition of two new Scania Irizar i6 touring coaches to its fleet.

The vehicles’ Scania K 360 IB4x2 chassis feature 360bhp Scania engines and the two-pedal version of Scania’s Opticruise gear selection system.

Both coaches are equipped with 12.45m bodywork and their fully equipped touring coach specification includes as standard 53 passenger seats, Bosch audio/video equipment, two monitors, washroom, servery top, fridge, powered entrance and main locker doors.

The two-year repair and maintenance support programme offered on all new coaches to retail customers in this case will be managed by Scania’s Avonmouth

contribute to delivering a better and faster return on their investment.”

Alongside its large coach fleet, Safeguard operates nine buses on local services in and around Guildford eight of these are Optares.

FACT FILE

CHASSIS/BODY: Optare Versa

11.1m ENGINE: Cummins ISBe6,

201bhp, Euro 5 GEARBOX: Allison 2100 automatic SUPPLIER: Optare 0843 4873 200 www.optare.com

branch.

With these new purchases Blue Iris now runs 12 coaches on a mixture of contracts and private hire.

Commenting on the order, Blue Iris’s Gina Spiller said: “We chose the Scania Irizar combination again because we feel Scania understands the needs of our business and what is important to us and our clients.

“The i6 product is extremely popular with both drivers and customers alike.”

FACT FILE

CHASSIS/BODY: Scania K 360 IB4x2 /

Irizar i6 ENGINE: Scania 360bhp TRANSMISSION: Scania Opticruise SEATS: 53 SUPPLIED BY: Scania www.scania.co.uk

01909 500 822

www.coachandbusweek.com

09/12/2013 20:39

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

ROSS TRAVEL GROUP Ross Travel Group of Featherstone has taken delivery of its second Optare Solo SR. The first joined the fleet in 2010 and another is on order for next year. However, the 12-strong bus operation – coaches are also operated – has featured Optare Solos since 2005 prior to the change to Solo SR. The latest addition is being used on Featherstone Rover local services between Featherstone, Pontefract, Castleford and Wakefield.

With a seating capacity of 36 on 36 fixed Esteban Civic V2 seats, plus three tip-ups in the wheelchair / buggy bay, it’s an ideal size for these high frequency services. In addition to the seating capacity, the vehicle has a standing capacity is 18, for a total maximum capacity of 54 passengers.

If a wheelchair-bound

passenger needs to board the vehicle, a ‘book leaf’ manual fold-out ramp can be deployed.

The bus also has a kneeling capability which takes the entrance height down to 200mm, making it even easier for disabled passengers to use the

service.

The Solo SR is powered by a Mercedes-Benz OM904LA engine rated at 154bhp (115kW) with a torque output of 610Nm. The engine is matched to an Allison 2100 series five-speed automatic transmission with full

CAN electric interface with the engine for optimum performance.

A lock-up torque converter operates in gears three, four and five while an electromagnetic retarder is activated automatically when the brakes are applied. Both of these contribute to improved

performance in terms of fuel economy.

Ross Travel has a fully equipped workshop at its Featherstone depot, with each vehicle in its bus fleet undergoing a safety inspection on a fortnightly cycle, half the interval required by law.

Founded by Peter Ross almost half a century ago in 1968, the business undertakes school contracts and coach private hire including operating wheelchair-lift equipped coaches and has its own holiday tours and excursion programme, as well as operating several local bus services.

FACT FILE

CHASSIS/BODY: Optare Solo SR ENGINE: Mercedes-Benz

OM 154bhp TRANSMISSION: Allison 2100 SEATS: 36 SUPPLIED: by Optare 08434

873 200 www.optare.com

THE MARKET FOR VEHICLES, PRODUCTS AND SERVICES

over 1,000 vehicles for sale online

Coachandbusmarket.com has the biggest choice of coaches, buses and minibuses with over 1,000 vehicles to choose from.

It’s also the biggest market for sellers, with over 24,000 vehicle advertisement views by buyers last month.

When selling a vehicle on coachandbusmarket.com you will not only get exposure to thousands of buyers, but also the lowest priced and best value ad prices and operators packages in the industry.

For more information you can contact Jade at jade.cassidy@coachandbusmarket.com or on 01733 293247

www.coachandbusweek.com

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December 11, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 39 09/12/2013 20:39

INDUSTRY

GUIDE

FUEL MANAGEMENT & EMISSION CONTROL

Making fuel A go further lthough the price of fuel seems to have stabilised slightly over recent weeks and the Chancellor has con�irmed a fuel duty freeze going into 2014, fuelling vehicles remains one of the biggest costs to any coach and bus operator.

Any method of making fuel last longer is sure to be a sound investment and help to maintain the green image which much of the passenger transport industry is aiming for.

There are a variety of ways to approach this problem. One is simply the type of fuel which is used. Some types of fuel will burn more ef�iciently than others and take vehicles further. Additives can also be put into the mix, which can cause fuel to burn more cleanly or

This week’s Industry Guide examines various ways in which operators can reduce their fuel bill, from proven fuel additives to in�luencing driver behaviour help reduce wear on engine parts and �ilters.

Another approach is the way in which the vehicle is driven. Harsh braking, over-revving and idling all result in wasted fuel. A telematics system can help monitor drivers to make sure they are making every effort to keep the operator’s

40 | COACH & BUS WEEK | December 11, 2013 040_050_CBW_1117_Industry guide.indd 40

fuel bill down. The amount of data these systems can provide nowadays allows this monitoring to be easily supplemented with incentive schemes. Drivers will feel less like they are being spied upon and instead know they will be rewarded for good driving.

Systems are available to

properly manage and monitor fuel use, making sure fuel stocks are accurately measured and preventing misuse or theft. There are also products on the market ensuring engines use the optimum amount of �luids, such as oil, to keep the engine running at peak ef�iciency. www.coachandbusweek.com

09/12/2013 21:30

ENERGENICS

The threat of further reductions in BSOG, combined with rising oil prices, make the proven fuel saving additive Envirox an increasingly attractive proposition for bus operators seeking to mitigate the impact of fuel price increases, as unlike diesel fuel, its pricing remains stable.

In September, Abellio made the decision to roll out Envirox to all of its UK bus operations, following a 12 month trial in its four largest London depots. Abellio follows in the footsteps of Stagecoach, which earlier this year signed a new three-year supply agreement with Energenics.

Announcing the new deal, Les Warneford, MD of Stagecoach UK Bus, said: “Fuel is one of our biggest costs. Basic prices are continuing to increase and bus operators across the UK have had to absorb a significant tax hike on their fuel since April last year… Our pioneering use of this innovative fuel additive in the UK has helped improve the sustainability of our operations, protected local air quality, improved fuel efficiency, and kept bus fares low.”

Envirox performed well at a recent trial with EYMS Mike Attfield, CEO of Energenics Europe, said: “By the end of the new three-year supply contract, Stagecoach will have used Envirox for over 10 years. This is a great endorsement of the effectiveness of the product and a good example of being green and smart. By identifying the potential of the then new technology and adopting it at an early stage, Stagecoach gained a valuable competitive advantage.”

Whilst fuel prices have risen, the

cost of Envirox has remained stable such that it now adds well below 1% to the fuel cost. Energenics believes these economics make a compelling financial case when weighed against the proven fuel savings of four to 11%. No engine modifications are required to use the product, it has no negative impact on lubricant performance, and the dose rate of additive is extremely low.

A recent trial at East Yorkshire’s

Driffield depot demonstrated these fuel savings complement those which can be achieved with a modern telematics based driver feedback system. This directly led last year to a full adoption of Envirox across their depots in Yorkshire with EYMS Chairman Peter Shipp commenting: “Based on the successful trial we are confident Envirox will deliver a considerable fuel saving.”

The company behind the product, Energenics Europe, was originally a nanotechnology spin out from Oxford University and is still based at one of its science parks where its scientists continue to develop novel advanced materials.

Envirox is based on cerium oxide, a well-known industrial oxidation catalyst widely used in catalytic converters. It would not normally be compatible with diesel fuel but using nanotechnology it has been re-engineered into a liquid format which mixes in easily. Energenics has also developed dosing systems which are purpose built for treating bulk fuel in bus depots.

E: info@energenics.co.uk W: www.energenics.co.uk

r www.coachandbusweek.com

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December 11, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 41 09/12/2013 21:30

INDUSTRY

GUIDE

FUEL MANAGEMENT & EMISSION CONTROL GREENURBAN

GreenUrban is now firmly established as the UK’s second largest manufacturer of commercial and public service vehicle retrofit emission reduction systems.

From its engineering and manufacturing base in the North West GreenUrban provides a first class retrofit and maintenance service to the whole of the UK. Initially based in Cheshire, the company moved to Cumbria in 2010 to a new, state of the art manufacturing facility in readiness for the introduction of the 2012 Low Emission Zone in London.

The company has grown from strength to strength over the years and now employs over 20 people across the UK. Through its close relationship with UK fleets the Company has come to appreciate the demand for much more than basic emission control solutions.

While it’s very clear that fleet emission reduction is crucial to maintaining acceptable air quality in our towns and cities, which in turn helps mitigate climate change, the reality is that emission

reduction technology represents an additional cost overhead to operators.

GreenUrban has a unique approach to this problem focused on providing the highest quality in terms of product and service while at the same time offering innovative ways of mitigating operating costs.

GreenUrban MD, Nigel Standley, said: “In addition to scheduled and reactive cleaning and maintenance of all makes of retrofit emission equipment we have developed a range of products and services to refurbish or replace Euro 4 and 5 OEM diesel filters and catalysts.

“Most exhaust systems on coaches and buses that have suffered from turbo oil seal failure, AdBlue contamination or fuelling issues can be brought back into service as opposed to replacing, saving our customers thousands of pounds.”

It doesn’t stop there.

GreenUrban’s roots in OEM vehicle engineering mean that as well as developing high quality emission reduction technologies, it has also introduced the economiser range of tailored fleet fuel saving

42 | COACH & BUS WEEK | December 11, 2013 040_050_CBW_1117_Industry guide.indd 42

interventions.

Nigel added: “Our model is to offer cost effective solutions that typically pay back within a year.

Guaranteed without risk savings of between 2% and 15% are the norm depending on what is appropriate for each fleet. Of course fuel saving also equals CO2 and other emissions reduction so everybody benefits.”

All this is in addition to GreenUrban’s evolving range of ‘eco’ exhaust emission retrofit products which can take current Euro 2 and 3 engines to Euro 4 and 5 emission standards.

Nigel concluded: “All our systems are based on advanced tier 2 OEM component technologies that are further developed to ensure the products work as they should when retrofitted to vehicles that are operating on both long haul and stop–start urban duty cycles, making them perfect for the PSV operator whatever their fleet size or operational profile.”

GreenUrban was founded in 2004 to offer cost-effective exhaust solutions to the commercial vehicle industry. The company believes that lowering emissions should

also help to lower the operators costs.

GreenUrban has developed a strong partnership with one of the industry’s leading filter manufacturers, LiqTech A/S, and is involved with several technology development programs pushing the boundaries of what’s achievable with retro-fittable emissions reduction equipment.

The company has its own research and development test facility allowing it to prove, develop and tune technologies to meet unique customer requirements on site.

The firm says no job is too small, or too much of a challenge. The company has the flexibility within its team and facilities to design, manufacture and install exhaust systems to all types of vehicles, be it standard production units or fully custom systems.

GreenUrban is an ISO9001:2008 approved company and is also an approved LEZ supplier to Transport for London.

T: 01768 480111 E: info@greenurban.co.uk W: www.greenurban.co.uk

www.coachandbusweek.com

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INDUSTRY

GUIDE

FUEL MANAGEMENT & EMISSION CONTROL VOITH TURBO

Excellent results from independent fuel trials have been a major factor in winning new business in the UK this year for Voith Turbo, the German bus transmissions specialist.

“Various fuel trials have demonstrated to both manufacturers and operators that Voith gearboxes are the right choice in many segments of the bus market,” said John Domigan, Voith Turbo’s Sales and Marketing Manager.

“There is a growing awareness that our fuel consumption results, coupled with our reputation for reliability and longevity, play a crucial part in keeping operator costs to a minimum over the lifecycle of buses,” he said.

In January this year Optare – at the request of Stagecoach – announced they would be �itting Voith gearboxes to 40 SlimLine Solos.

It was the �irst order Voith had received from Optare and means that Voith is now supplying all three UK-based bus manufacturers with its products.

Optare said its decision to �it the four-speed DIWA.824.5 automatic transmission was based on excellent reliability and fuel ef�iciency.

In April National Express selected Voith Turbo’s four-speed automatic gearboxes for the �irst time.

The �irm said it wanted a reliable and durable gearbox for 30 ADL Enviro200s. The gearbox would be used on buses which would be clocking up to 50,000 miles a year – many of them on hilly routes in the Birmingham area.

In July, Voith Turbo announced it had won a contract from Wrightbus for the DIWA 854.5

automatic gearbox for 179 StreetLite midibuses for First.

Wright Group’s Managing Director, Mark Nodder, said the StreetLite buses had proved themselves best-in-class in every category at fuel trials conducted at Millbrook Proving Grounds under the close scrutiny of FirstGroup engineers.

John Domigan said: “The opportunities for Voith in the midibus sector have been growing signi�icantly along with an increasing demand for midibuses in the UK bus market.

“Our transmissions are made speci�ically for the constant stopstart cycle of buses, and are sold on fuel ef�iciency, reliability, and longevity.”

Voith’s DIWA system comes from Differential Wandler – German for differential torque converter which incorporates a retarder.

The DIWA’s �irst gear replaces the

Various fuel trials have demonstrated that Voith gearboxes are the right choice in many segments of the bus market – John Domigan

44 | COACH & BUS WEEK | December 11, 2013 040_050_CBW_1117_Industry guide.indd 44

�irst two gears on a conventional automatic transmission cutting fuel consumption. It also reduces gear shifts at lower speeds giving a more comfortable ride for passengers.

Voith is now manufacturing the new Euro 6 compliant gearbox, DIWA.6.

The new gearbox is already being sold across mainland Europe and is available for the UK when the EU legislation is implemented here in 2015.

The DIWA.6 will reduce noise emissions, provide better thermal stability, and will improve ef�iciency.

It has been designed for use with multiple vehicle con�igurations, including double-deck vehicles, single-deckers, and the midi-bus sector.

“The improved design of DIWA.6 will contribute to improved fuel ef�iciency of between three and �ive per cent,” said John.

“The new transmission has undergone thousands of miles of proving in various trials with different manufacturers’ buses throughout Europe, including the UK.” Throughout 2013 Voith Turbo has continued to grow its business in the UK, and customer service has played a key part in contributing to its success.

“We are unique in this market in that we employ our own specialist engineers who are in bus depots helping our customers everyday,” said John.

“We have specialist knowledge in marrying and optimising the best combination of engines, gearboxes and drivelines.

“As Voith Turbo employs 6,000 people in 80 countries, including key bus markets such as North America and Hong Kong, we can become a global strategic partner to bus operators by offering the same specialist knowledge around the world.”

Voith Turbo has also recently developed new software technology that could save UK bus operators hundreds of thousands of pounds a year.

Extensive trials, involving 800 buses in the UK, have demonstrated that the software can predict and prevent expensive gearbox failures, resulting in potentially signi�icant savings.

It also means that costly vehicle downtime can be virtually eliminated through new planned maintenance programmes.

“The �igures showed that by identifying and �ixing gearboxes before they failed we could reduce the cost of replacing units,” said John.

“Cost savings over a few years could be dramatic.”

Voith Turbo is now developing plans to offer UK bus operators the opportunity to bene�it from the new technology which is believed to be the �irst of its kind in the bus industry.

T: 0208 667 3021 W: www.uk.voithturbo.com

www.coachandbusweek.com

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INDUSTRY

GUIDE

FUEL MANAGEMENT & EMISSION CONTROL CAMERON FORECOURT

Expanding haulier and construction plant specialist Harlex Haulage Services has added a new dimension to the fuel management of its growing fleet with the installation of a new web-based system from Cameron Forecourt.

Family-owned business Harlex, based in Kent, operates throughout London and the South East providing haulage services principally to the construction industry by providing licensed waste management services, together with the supply of primary and recycled aggregates.

The company also has a large fleet of hire plant for use mainly on site, including dumpers, shovels, tractors and fork lifts.

With a growing fleet of roadgoing tipper vehicles and a wide range of plant, the company opted for an all-new fuel management installation to keep close control over fuel supplies stored on site at its base in Rochester.

The turnkey package from Cameron Forecourt includes an Eclipse web-based fuel management system linked to a single diesel pump to provide

up to the minute information on fuel drawings, wetstock levels and fuelling information for all its vehicles. Information is fed to the system automatically via on-board vehicles ID tags and a nozzle-based DervPoint automatic vehicle recognition (AVR) module which ensure that only authorised vehicles and drivers can draw fuel.

The DervPoint system uses a tag with a unique code which is attached on or near the vehicle fuel filler to communicate with a transponder mounted on the fuel nozzle. Information is then passed to the fuel island controller via an RF link, which allows fuelling to commence once a “positive ID” is received.

Further information on stock levels in the company’s bulk storage tank is provided by extremely accurate TLS Gilbarco Veeder Root electronic tank gauging which is integrated into the fuel management package.

T: 01226 742 441 E: sales@cameronforecourt.co.uk W: www.cameronforecourt. co.uk

46 | COACH & BUS WEEK | December 11, 2013 040_050_CBW_1117_Industry guide.indd 46

JA ENVIROTANKS

JA Envirotanks have been manufacturing storage tanks from 150 litres up to 220,000 litres in the centre of Birmingham for more than 150 years now.

Birmingham Entrepreneur and Engineer Joseph Ash established Joseph Ash Ltd (JA Envirotanks) in 1845 and the company has been manufacturing storage tanks in carbon and stainless steel ever since.

The company’s Birmingham factory produces the patented ‘Envirotank’ enclosed bunded storage tank. The product is used in quarries, distribution facilities and refueling premises all over the UK. Typical applications for the tanks include vehicle fuelling, gas oil for standby generators and boilers, diesel tanks, workshop waste oil tanks, oil storage, AdBlue storage and chemical process tanks.

The company is the market leader in the design and manufacture of enclosed bunded or single skin fuel storage solutions both for above and below ground use.

JA Envirotanks can incorporate

the necessary cabinets, fuel distribution pumps, pipework, valves, alarms, gauges, filtering, electrical wiring and lighting into our tanks to meet the needs of the user.

In addition, JA Envirotanks can provide for BMS connection to an operator’s computer system computer complete with the necessary management systems.

The company’s tanks are available in rectangular and cylindrical configurations which can be installed horizontally or vertically and manufactured in carbon steel or stainless steel, or to an operator’s specific footprint requirements if where it is necessary.

The latest patented Bio Envirotank is specifically designed for storing bio fuels, having no internal structure to give easy access for cleaning and maintenance and thus avoiding the cost of expensive ‘confined spaces’ specialist cleaning.

T: 0121 622 4661 E: sales@jaenvirotanks. co.uk W: www.jaenvirotanks.com

www.coachandbusweek.com

09/12/2013 21:30

GRAYSON THERMAL SYSTEMS

The AA’s November Fuel Price Report revealed that the UK has the second highest diesel price in Europe. So a product which delivers fuel savings and helps to reduce engine noise and exhaust emissions has got to be worth a closer look.

Grayson’s e-drive cooling system is designed to do just that. It is being installed in new hybrid buses and retro-fitted in conventional vehicles all over the world.

The e-drive uses long-life, brushless electric fans to ensure the correct airflow over the cooling cores. The fans only need to be operated on full power when conditions demand and fuel savings are typically around 10%.

The latest version of the energy saving system is for Optare Solos.

This new five fan variant of the proven e-drive system – which was originally developed for Volvo B7’s – is specifically for Solos, and replaces the original cooling system to give operators a high level of control over fan speed and temperature.

Business Development Manager, David Hobbs, said: “We are working on a number of projects to integrate our e-drive systems with Euro 5 bus engines, to create buses that are effectively ‘greener.’ It’s a cost-effective alternative to introducing new hybrid buses.”

The company currently has developed e-drive systems for the following vehicles, however

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Volvo B7 E-drive it can easily design a new system for vehicles which aren’t in the existing range. l Volvo B7/B9 l Optare Solo l Optare Versa l MAN 18. 240 l MAN 18. 220 l MAN 14. 220 l Solaris U18 l ADL E400 Grayson Thermal Systems is a specialist engineering company with a strong reputation for quality, innovation and for working in partnership with customers to develop and supply solutions to specific business issues.

It designs and manufactures original equipment and aftermarket cooling and heating products for buses and coaches, specialist

off-road vehicles and commercial vehicles, and its customers include some of the best known original equipment manufacturers and vehicle operators.

The company is a proud Birmingham-based business with two extensive manufacturing facilities, dedicated engineering, research and test operations, along with a separate service centre.

From the heart of England, Grayson serves customers in Britain and right around the globe including China, the United States, Eastern and Central Europe and New Zealand.

The firm has opened Grayson North America and Grayson Poland, and plans a further programme of satellite businesses across the world.

Grayson has come a long way since 1978 when Chairman, Graham Hateley, opened a car radiator repair business from a small unit in Hay Mills, Birmingham.

Now, it is a proud family-run business with an excess of 200 employees across two continents, including three generations of the Hateley family.

More importantly, it’s still brimming with new ideas to take it – and its customers – through the next generations.

T: 0121 700 5600 E: sales@graysonts.com W: www.graysonts.com

December 11, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 47 09/12/2013 19:18

INDUSTRY

GUIDE

FUEL MANAGEMENT & EMISSION CONTROL GROENEVELD

The general daily maintenance regime for a bus or coach, involves checking the levels of various liquids, including diesel, water and of course oil. All bus and coach engines are fitted with a more or less accurate dip stick, usually indicating nothing more than a minimum and a maximum oil level. With most maintenance staff, when they check the oil level, if it is significantly below the maximum level, to be on the safe side they will top it up, in the mistaken belief that this is what the engine needs.

Richard Hamper, Groeneveld’s UK Sales Manager for Bus and Rail Applications explained: “What we do is very simple. Every engine has its optimum oil level. It doesn’t need to be running at almost full.

The Oilmaster unit will check with the sensor attached to the engine every time the engine is started, if the oil level is still at the optimum oil level as initially installed, the system will remain dormant. If it is low, then a half-litre of new oil is pumped into the measured chamber of the Oilmaster and then into the top of the engine. The system will check each time the

engine is turned on or off but will not pump again until the engine has been at rest for at least 1 hour.

This keeps the engine running at around the optimum level, ensuring that the oil level never gets down towards minimum safe levels. Every measure and top up is accurately logged, so that operators can tell exactly how much oil an engine is actually using.

“An alert system on the Oilmaster reservoir indicates when it is getting low and needs to be topped up. This might be once or twice a year, or even less. We have seen savings in oil usage of up to 20% in some cases, which is a huge benefit in itself. Buses fitted with Oilmaster assist in producing lower emission levels, which protects the DPFs, and maintenance costs and reduces maintenance times. The Oilmaster system also helps to protect the workforce by minimising time in the engine bay.”

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

48 | COACH & BUS WEEK | December 11, 2013 040_050_CBW_1117_Industry guide.indd 48

CENTAUR

Behind the Centaur badge is the 10 strong team which provides a first class customer support service across the UK and Ireland.

With a list of customers which include the likes of Stobarts and DHL through to the independent operator, Centaur can tailor make packages to suite all budgets. With over 50 years experience repeat custom is gained by friendly help and advice coupled with the professional approach maintained by all Centaur employees.

One of Centaurs major advantages over its competitors is the ability to provide a one stop shop, from tank testing to IT support, Centaur is

small enough to care but big enough to cope.

Independently owned Centaur fuel management limited now has over 2,500 active customers on its books helping to manage fuel stocks and maximize fleet performance through online reports in real time, giving 24/7 secure internet access to customer accounts and transactions, with the ability to set daily limits and receive live alerts for abnormal usage Centaur puts the haulier back in control of all fuel stocks.

T: 0870 757 6323 E: info@centauronline. co.uk W: www.centauronline.co.uk/

Centaur helps manage fuel stocks for 2,500 active customers

www.coachandbusweek.com

09/12/2013 21:30

ZF

The most stringent European commercial vehicle emissions standard to date – Euro 6 – is approaching.

Commercial vehicle manufacturers have been hard at work in readiness for the introduction of the legislation, redesigning and refining engine technologies to meet the new nitrogen oxides (NOx) and particulate matter (PM) targets.

But building a cleaner-running engine doesn’t automatically make it a more fuel-efficient one, so maintaining engine performance and fuel economy at Euro 5 levels can be a challenge.

Fortunately, other elements within the drivetrain – the automatic transmission, for example – can make a useful contribution to fuel efficiency.

With its long pedigree of innovation in transmission design and development, ZF is helping vehicle manufacturers and fleet operators meet the challenge of Euro 6. Particular attention is being given to bus and coach applications, where the choice of transmission is an increasingly

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040_050_CBW_1117_Industry guide.indd 49

important factor in the pursuit of operational efficiency in heavy, stop-start city traffic. ZF’s six-speed EcoLife automatic transmission is an example of a product which addresses this demand. The transmission design includes an integrated torsional vibration damper which contributes to lower average engine speeds through earlier upshifts even in fourcylinder applications, reducing fuel consumption. Its high performance twin heat exchanger cooling system also makes EcoLife ideally suited to the higher operating temperatures associated with Euro 6 emission standards.

Further refinements are being applied to EcoLife during continuing development of the product, especially with regard to gearshift programmes, to meet the ever-changing needs of operators. Although modern city bus transmissions are already equipped with alternative shift programmes (e.g. Eco, Normal, Power) to suit specific terrain and driving conditions, only one is activated for a particular route.

Buses may therefore operate with a ‘Power’ drive programme

A typical EcoLife installation: the Volvo D9B driveline from the Volvo B9TL double-deck bus, showing the ZF-EcoLife transmission and ZFAV132 rear axle

– perhaps selected to cope with a single, short incline – even though the majority of the route is better suited to a fuel economy orientated programme.

ZF has succeeded in eliminating such compromises with its EcoLife transmission, by developing a topographic dynamic shift strategy known as ‘TopoDyn Life’. Incorporated within the transmission control software, it continuously monitors the topography and all driving resistances, using these data to calculate the ideal gear shifting points for any driving condition.

The original TopoDyn concept was first applied to later generations of the popular ZF-Ecomat automatic transmission, with great success

in cities across the world. By recognising various driving situations and automatically switching between its different drive programmes, TopoDyn continues to achieve fuel savings averaging around five per cent in typical ZF-Ecomat applications.

T: 0333 240 1123 E: info.zf-services-uk@ zf.com W: www.zf.com/uk

December 11, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 49 09/12/2013 19:18

INDUSTRY

GUIDE

FUEL MANAGEMENT & EMISSION CONTROL QUARTIX

Telematics is playing an increasingly important role in fuel management for commercial fleets across all sectors, as it is proves to be an efficient and measurable way of reducing fuel consumption. 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 as well as improve the safety of their drivers and customers and reduce their CO2 emissions.

Numerous bus and coach operators are already employing Quartix vehicle tracking to improve their service and dramatically reduce outgoing fuel costs. By using the system’s wide range of features to address pertinent issues like idling times, fleets of all sizes are bettering their driving performance and day-to-day management.

There are two main axes to look at when working to lower a fleet’s fuel consumption: reducing idling time and improving driving behaviour.

With the real-time tracking from Quartix, fleet managers are able to tell at any time if individual coaches or buses is idling, and the daily and weekly reports grant all idling details and totals for each vehicle. Cutting idling times can have a huge impact on reducing fuel bills, as well as lowering carbon emissions.

Another key feature to help reduce fuel consumption is Quartix’s Driving-Style Monitoring suite. The module monitors and reports on harsh acceleration, braking and speeding, helping to make substantial fuel savings while dramatically improving the safety of fleet drivers and customers. Using a combination of GPS data and the sensitive ‘black box’ style monitoring built into the Quartix Telematics device, rapid acceleration and braking can be accurately recorded and processed.

The management information is provided in simple and easy-toread graphical reports.

Unlike other driving analysis systems, the Quartix Driving-Style feature is not connected to the vehicle’s CAN-Bus, which allows reliable driver comparisons across all vehicle types, makes and models. It also means the system is remotely configurable; does not need vehicle manufacturers’ approvals; comes at no additional cost and can be used on new and

Quartix real-time tracking includes a number of key features which has seen it adopted by many successful operators

old vehicles alike.

Drivers who accelerate and brake harshly cost a business much more than those who don’t. Harsh braking not only wastes fuel and increases servicing costs (tyres, brakes etc) but is also known to be a driving style which increases risk of accidents. This is why managers are now seeing monitoring good driving as a top priority.

Companies can make real fuel savings by using the system and working alongside drivers to improve driving style and reduce idling times.

Reducing top speeds by 10mph alone could cut 8-9% off the fuel bill, and modifying the acceleration and braking style could cut a further 6% off the bill.

The savings mentioned above are achieved exclusively by improving driver behaviour – reducing idling results in greater savings. It is widely recognised that a diesel engine left running idle will consume around one gallon of fuel per hour, so cutting down on this practice could mean valuable cuts on the fuel front.

To encourage their drivers to adopt a more economical and safer driving style, managers have found using carrots, not sticks, often works best: giving incentive to better drivers and rewarding top performers, who are easily identifiable thanks to league tables on the

50 | COACH & BUS WEEK | December 11, 2013 040_050_CBW_1117_Industry guide.indd 50

Quartix system, has shown to be one of the most effective ways.

Without singling any drivers out, another method is to look at the Driving scoring average across the fleet.

Furthermore, the wealth of features unique to the system will not only raise efficiency and lower fuel expenses but directly decrease a fleet’s collective CO2 emissions.

Regardless of a company’s primary use for telematics, vehicle tracking brings about cost-effective green standards for fleets of all sizes.

Indeed, successful companies in the coach and bus sector, such as Tanat Valley and Bradfords Coaches & Minibus Hire, are using the

Quartix system to reduce fuel expenses and improve fleet perations. Shearings Group has been very satisfied with the Quartix system: “We had very positive feedback from our operational teams,” said Denis Wormwell, Shearings CEO. “We also found the 12 month direct rental attractive, as we didn’t have to commit over a long period.”

T: 0870 013 6663 W: www.quartix.net/

www.coachandbusweek.com

09/12/2013 21:30

THE MARKET FOR VEHICLES, PRODUCTS AND SERVICES

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02/12/2013

19:04

Deadline for vehicle and classified advertisements in the magazine is 1200hrs Friday.

Contact your friendly coachandbusmarket Manager Jade Cassidy via phone, email or fax Tel: 01733 293247 f: 0845 280 2927 e: jade.cassidy@coachandbusweek.com 049_CBW1117_CBM Cover.indd 51

09/12/2013 21:35

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2003 Optare Solo

2001 Volvo B10M Berkhof Axial

Mercedes engine, one owner, good condition and tyres, low mileage 392,955, 29 seated 20 standing, full diptact space for one wheelchair, tested June 2014, taxed end of October 2013. £17,500 o.n.o.

50 reclining seats, TV/DVD, PA, fridge, hot drinks servery, air con, Webasto, alloy wheels.

Last coach remaining. £23,750 + VAT

7HO

6FDQ +HUH WR $SSO\ 2QOLQH

BD23 5BS – 01756 753123

Snowcoach Holidays 01727 866177 / 07831 612125

2007 Optare Solo 7.1 SE

Mercedes Vario 814

23 seater + 10 standing, MOT June 2014, full service history from new, Hanover front digital destination board, CCTV – Activ 4 camera system, Mercedes engine, 263,000 miles, can respray in new owners colours. £39,500 o.n.o. + VAT

Ring Graham Croombs 0118 973 3486 graham@courtneybuses.com

2000 Volvo B10M Plaxton Panther

P.O.A.

Telephone: 01487 843333

2003 Neoplan Starliner

01404 47502 or 07790 966667

Volvo B12B Van Hool

Mercedes Vario 814 Beaver

49 seats, PA system, DVD player, climate control, toilet, continental door, water boiler, p/plate, not subject to LEZ, recent re-trim. £24,000 + VAT

ZF auto, 14 berth sleeper, Euro 4 LEZ, static AC/heating, 240v, normal band bus stuff! MOT March 2014, good condition.

Steve 0161 775 0800/07445 266345 operations@travel-master.co.uk

£25,000 + VAT

Two +. 29 coach seats, 3 point belts. Side loading wheel chair lift. 2005/55 reg. Manual gearbox. DDA Accessibility certificate. COIF. Racks, Boot. Best of both coach. Taxed + new MOT. 1 former keeper. May part ex. Call Tim. View Devon.

Telephone: 01487 843333

01404 47502 or 07790 966667

2009 MAN Plaxton Centro

1998 Mercedes Benz 814 Alexander

38 blue moquette seats, Mobitec LED destination equipment, one year’s MOT. Offers over £45,000

Automatic, 27 seats, 3 point belts, power door, perfect for school/private hire, good offers considered.

2000 MAN Ayats Bravo 1

14/16 berth sleeper, Static AC/heating, 240v, normal band bus stuff! MOT Apr 2014, recon gearbox, good condition.

Automatic. 2005/05. 33 seat coach, 3 point belts. Racks, boot, tacho, COIF, long MOT & tax.

Very nice tidy coach, one previous owner, drives well, ready to work. May part exchange.

10 minutes Exeter airport. Call Tim.

2003 Mercedes Cheetah 29 passengers plus courier seat Tax till March MOT till February Large boot New clutch and turbo.

37 leather seats around tables, Sky TV/DVD entertainment system, 7 screens, toilet, kitchen, sockets throughout, manual 4 over 4. £39,995 + VAT

Steve 0161 775 0800/07445 266345 operations@travel-master.co.uk

£24,000 + VAT

Hailstone Travel Ltd 0845 388 3848

Andy Shaw – 0131 554 5413

£8,995 + VAT Call Karl at Whitegate Travel Tel: 01606 786833 Mobile: 07841 110426

Telephone Jade Cassidy on 01733 293247 or email jade.cassidy@coachandbusweek.com 52 | COACH & BUS WEEK | December 11, 2013

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2004 Optare Solo

2002 MAN Ayats Bravo 1

33 seats + 20 standees, Cummins engine, Mobitec LED display, MOT until Dec 2014.

2005 Optare Solo M950 SLF 9.5m

2007 Scania K340/ Caetano Levante

33 seats + 17 standees, Mercedes engine, Hanover LED.

Choice of 2, 49 leather reclining seats, ZF automatic gearbox and retarder, Hanover front, side and rear destinations, WC, air conditioning, PLS magic lift, low mileage, recently refurbished and can be used on National Express network until June 2016.

A STEAL AT £18,500 ONO + VAT

14/16 berth sleeper, Static AC/heating, 240v, normal band bus stuff! MOT February 2014, good condition.

P.O.A.

Glen Valley Tours – 01668 281578

Telephone: 01487 843333

Luxury VW Crafter

1999 Mercedes 412D

2011 Vauxhall Vivaro 12 seat minibus

2003 Setra 315 GTHD

2007, 16 seats, A/C, DVD, microphone, 135,000 miles, 7 months MOT, excellent condition.

16 removable seats, or 6 wheelchairs, 5 speed manual, external wheelchair lift, tachograph fitted, very clean condition, MOT June 14. £3,495 + VAT

Full COIF with 8 months PSV/MOT, taxed until December, digital tachograph, 6 speed gearbox, 3 rear seats can be removed (ensuring space for luggage),1 owner vehicle.

49 seat with retractable belts, low mileage, seat back tables, footrests, centre toilet, power door, air con, webasto, cool box and boiler 2 x monitors and DVD, radio cassette, LEZ exhaust, great drive.

Chalkwell Coach Hire 01795 423982 andy.bates@chalkwell.co.uk

£13,250 + VAT o.n.o.

£21,000

Slick Rides – 07823 770978

2001 MAN Neoplan

1998 (R) DAF SB300 Plaxton Excalibur

£32,000 + VAT – ONLY 1 LEFT Southdown PSV 01342 711840 email: bussales@southdownpsv.co.uk www.southdownpsv.co.uk

AFJ Travel – 07947 152763

2006 Bova Majiq

£80,000 + VAT each

yourbus – 01773 714013

£53,500 + VAT ono

Paul Watson Travel paul.watson9@btconnect.com

1994 Volvo B9M Berkof Excellence

53 T&T Auto gearbox (faulty) 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.

Spares or repair.

£95,000 + VAT

Good solid engine and gearbox, tidy bodywork, MOT till April 2014, 37 recliners, loads of legroom and a rear toilet.

£25,000 + VAT

Nigel Brown – 01982 570225

Travelstar European 01922 647100 / 07779 801862

£11,000 Milligans Coach Travel 01290 550365

2001 Dennis Darts

2009 (09) Iveco Daily

2002 Bova Futura

OFFERS + VAT

Contact Gary – 07930 377051

2009 (59) Iveco Daily

16 passenger seats with 3 point belts, front entrance with lowered entry step, extra large boot, panoramic windows, parcel racks with reading lights and blown air, interior lighting with dim facility, CD sound system, tested until 30 September 2014.

£21,995 + VAT Call Karl at Whitegate Travel Tel: 01606 786833 Mobile: 07841 110426

Fully DDA compliant, long or new MOTs, 37 seaters, very good order. Choice of 3. £8,500 + VAT

Phone Ian – 07817 683970

49 seat executive, ZF auto, LEZ compliant, leather headrests, twin monitor DVD, centre sunken toilet, tasteful moquette, excellent condition, MOT & Tax, economical vehicle, ready to work.

16 passenger seats with 3 point seat belts, front entrance with lowered entry step, extra large boot, panoramic windows, parcel racks with reading lights and blown air, interior lighting with dim facility, CD sound system, tested to June 2014.

£21,995 + VAT Call Karl at Whitegate Travel Tel: 01606 786833 Mobile: 07841 110426

• Air con • Toilet • DVD • Monitor x 2 • Eminox euro 4 • 49 seats • Green cloth • Long MOT

£50,000 + VAT

L.J. Edwards – 07974 369570

Telephone Jade Cassidy on 01733 293247 or email jade.cassidy@coachandbusweek.com www.coachandbusweek.com

December 11, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 53

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Mercedes Sprinter 311

New luxury minibus conversion, 17 seats, full COIF and PSV MOT, ready to work.

£22,995

Swansea Coachworks 01792 650258

2009 Setra 416GTHD

1996 Volvo B10MA Articulated Coach

ZF automatics, 71 seats.

£150,000

POA

£95,500

Buzzlines Travel - 01303 261870

EnsignBus 01708 865656

Applegates Coaches 01453 810314

You’re in control.

Selling a vehicle is simple on . . .

£2,750 + VAT

EnsignBus 01708 865656

EnsignBus 01708 865656

2003 Volvo Jonckheere B12M Mistral 50

POA

Swansea Coachworks 01792 650258

2003 Alexander Dennis Enviro 300 SLF 12m

£37,950 + VAT ono Star Coaches Limited Martin 07831 265804 Adam 0121 350 5555

44 seats + 27 standees, DDA compliant, 12 months MOT. £27,500 + VAT Southdown PSV 01342 711840 email: bussales@southdownpsv.co.uk www.southdownpsv.co.uk

1998 Volvo B10M Caetano Enigma

1998 Volvo B10M Berkhof Axial 50

53 passenger seats, 12 months MOT, 527,071kms, interior & exterior in excellent condition, vigorously maintained (records available).

Mercedes Sprinter 516

New 16 seat minicoach, coach rear end with lift-up boot, side body skirts, colour coded bumpers to match skirts + much more.

Merc Euro 4 engines, Mobitech LED’s, one M880 28 seats and one M950 31 seats.

POA

Nigel Brown – 01982 570225

POA

2008 Optare Solos

Take the photos, write the ad and change it later if you want to, all from your online dashboard.

21 seats White 12 months MOT Ideal school contract vehicle.

13.8m, MAN engines, 89 seats, toilet, air-con.

49 reclining seats, AS Tronic gearbox, LEZ compliant, A/C, W/C, sat-nav, reverse camera, DVD, 2 x monitors.

June 2009, 49 seats, toilet/servery, 2 DVD screens, Euro 5.

1995 (N) Toyota Optimo III

2005 Neoplan Skyliners

Plaxton Panther MAN

49 seats with retractable belts, monitor, DVD, radio, cassette, taxed and tested, has air-con but needs re-gas + belts, needs t.l.c. but good motor.

1999 (T) MAN 24,400 Noge Triaxle 49 executive seats ZF auto gearbox Alloy wheels No tax or MOT Dry stored past 2 years.

OFFERS + VAT

Nigel Brown – 01982 570225

2011 Irizar PB

£15,500 + VAT ono

49 seats, WC, aircon, six speed ZF manual gearbox, first reg 14/04/98, MOT 07/03/14, only one previous owner

Paul Watson Travel paul.watson9@btconnect.com

£19,950

£190,000

New Horizon Travel: 01206 255255

Buzzlines Travel - 01303 261870

December 2011, 59 seats, toilet/servery, 3 DVD screens, Euro 5.

Telephone Jade Cassidy on 01733 293247 or email jade.cassidy@coachandbusweek.com 54 | COACH & BUS WEEK | December 11, 2013

www.coachandbusweek.com

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1997 Volvo Olympian open top bus

Alexander Dennis body, P reg, 75 seats, fitted with a PA system, new MOT on purchase.

Only 2 remaining.

Bath Bus Company 01225 330444

1993 Volvo B10M Plaxton Premier

49 seats, automatic, good condition for year, available with new test, ideal for upseat.

Choice of 3 – view North Wales/Dublin. £13,000

Call Anthony Kelly PAB Tours 00353 86 8138165

2005 (55) MAN 14.220 MCV Evolution

Page 55

1999 Dennis Dart SLF

COID and MOT until May 2014, painted blue and white with blue seats which were retrimmed approx 2 years ago, a reliable and well maintained vehicle, choice of two sister vehicles available.

2003 Neoplan Starliner

2003 Mercedes Citaros

38 + 34 standees, LEZ complaint, full DDA, dual door, Hanover LEDs, CCTV, in good condition, very low mileage (240,000 – 260,000 km), 1 year’s MOT. Choice of 6 (5 x 53 plate and 1 x 03 plate). £40,000 each + VAT

£5,000 + VAT o.n.o

38 leather seats around tables, Sky TV/DVD entertainment system, 7 screens, toilet, kitchen, sockets throughout, automatic. £39,995 + VAT

Country Bus Devon Tel 01626 833664/07872 839530

Steve 0161 775 0800/07445 266345 operations@travel-master.co.uk

Mercedes Vario

2003 Bova Futura • Air con • Toilet • DVD • Monitor x 2 • Full exec spec • Eminox euro 4 • 49 seats • Green cloth • Manual • Long MOT

29 coach seats with belts, MOT 2014. £2,500 + VAT – OFFERS CONSIDERED

yourbus – 01773 714013

2001 Salvador Caetano

70 seats + driver and crew with 3 point belts, 3+2 config, auto, air-con, good runner, inspection welcome, ready for work. £40,000 + VAT

£55,000 + VAT

Phone Ian – 07817 683970

L.J. Edwards – 07974 369570

Steve 0161 775 0800/07445 266345 operations@travel-master.co.uk

2002 Iveco Beulas Stergo

1999 Mercedes Benz 814 Plaxton

2004 Mercedes Benz Optare Solera

D L O

• Automatic • Air con • Toilet 40 seat SLF service bus, newly repanelled and repainted, 12 months MOT to October 2013, Hannover LED destination, excellent condition, drives superb.

REDUCED TO £23,950 + VAT ovno

• Monitor x 2 • Non LEZ • Long MOT

£30,000 + VAT

Llew Jones – 07795 347476 or steve@llewjones.com

L.J. Edwards – 07974 369570

1995 Scania K113 VanHool Alizee

1998 (R) Iveco 16 seat Minibus Power door Will have new test.

S

27 coach seats with 3 point belts, perfect for school bus and private hire, MOT till April 2014, manual with power door and private plate.

39 reclining seats, air conditioning, owned from new, MOT until September 2014.

£8,995 + VAT Call Karl at Whitegate Travel Tel: 01606 786833 Mobile: 07841 110426

Lakeside Coaches - 01691 622761

2005 Setra 315GTHD

P.O.A.

53 plate Mercedes Cheetah

LEZ

COMPLIANT

Converted this year to 70 seater using Cogent seats with 3 point belts, tea machine, TV/DVD.

£21,000 Milligans Coach Travel 01290 550365

49 seat exec, toilet, boiler, cooler, DVD, 2 x monitors, Mercedes engine, A/S Tronic gearbox, intarder, air conditioning, Webasto, alloy wheels, owned & maintained by us from new, repaint by arrangement. Choice of 2.

£1,250 + VAT

£62,500

29 passengers plus courier seat, tax till August, MOT till June, large boot, low emission exhaust fitted. £26,000 + VAT

Nigel Brown – 01982 570225

Clarkes of London Call Andy Nixon – 020 8768 9612

Hailstone Travel Ltd 0845 388 3848

Telephone Jade Cassidy on 01733 293247 or email jade.cassidy@coachandbusweek.com www.coachandbusweek.com

December 11, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 55

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2008 Mercedes Atego

2010 Volkswagen Crafter CR50

1992 Leyland Lynx

2008 Mercedes Sprinter 515 EX

With Sitcar Marlin 33 seat body in green. £45,000

16 seats + driver, with 3 point belts, finished in moquette, panoramic glazing, forced air, radio/CD, decorative curtains, large boot.

Available for immediate delivery. £26,500 + VAT

Andy Shaw – 0131 554 5413

EVM Direct – 0845 5205160

07802 235778 / 0151 547 2713

EVM Direct – 0845 5205160

1999 Mercedes Optare Solo M850

Scania Omnicity TFL DD

2008 MAN 14:240 MCV Evolution

2009 Enviro 200

Cummins L10 engine, ZF gearbox.

Sold for spares – 2 available.

Offers invited for engine & gearbox or bus

16 recliners with 3 point belts, MOT till May, air-con, double glazing, large drop boot, decorative curtains, 276,000 miles (39,258 on new engine), 1 owner. £22,995 + VAT

26 + standees, automatic box, DDA compliant with Mobitec display, 8 camera CCTV system and Traffilog tracking and diagnostics fitted.

MOT to March 2014.

Ex-rental, Euro 4, 22 seats lower, 41 upper deck, 1 x wheelchair, 25 standees, Voith auto, air-con, wheelchair ramp, DDA compliant, Mobitech destination, CCTV, single door option, repaint option, MOT 2013, choice of 9.

43 seats + 22 standees, auto box, 3 point belts, DDA compliant with Mobitec display, 8 camera CCTV system,Traffilog tracking & diagnostics, well maintained with long MOT, 4 available.

£8,500

PURCHASE OR RENTAL OPTIONS

£47,500

Cummins engine, Allison gearbox, 8.8m, 29 seats, Hanover LED’s.

Bakers Dolphin 01934 422400 or 07788 101631

Santander Used Assets 07753 712444

Bakers Dolphin 01934 422400 or 07788 101631

EnsignBus 01708 865656

2006 Transit Tourneo

2006 Mercedes Sprinter 413 EX

2006 Transit Tourneo

Iveco 45C15

9 seater, tax till Jan, will have new MOT, 190,000 miles, runs well, front and rear air-con, tow bar. £4,000 + VAT

Hailstone Travel Ltd 0845 388 3848

1992 Leyland Lynx

Cummins L10 engine, ZF gearbox.

Sold for spares – 2 available.

Offers invited for engine & gearbox or bus

07802 235778 / 0151 547 2713

16 seats + driver with 3 point belts, finished in moquette, panoramic glazing, A/C front and rear, radio/CD, decorative curtains, large boot, new engine, clutch & flywheel fitted at 248,000 miles. £15,000 + VAT

9 seater, SWB, low roof, air con, alloy wheels, electric windows, mirrors, radio/CD, FSH, 74,000 miles, MOT May, immaculate.

Choice of 2, viewing in London.

£7,250 + VAT – PX considered

EVM Direct – 0845 5205160

Crystals Coaches Ltd 020 8960 8800/07971 000111

2006 Transit Tourneo

2003 Scania K114

Crystals Coaches Ltd 020 8960 8800/07971 000111

16 seater, Elite conversion, 70,000 km, MOT till October 2014, forced air, reading lights, huge boot (barn doors), outstanding condition. £25,995 + VAT

EVM Direct – 0845 5205160

Now in stock and available for a fast delivery

With Irizar Century 49 seat body with toilet. £45,000

16 full size coach seats with three point belts, rear double and single on quick release, skirt kit and front bumper modification, luggage racks with integrated blown air and reading lights, curtains, roof hatch/sunroof, digital tachograph, COIF, wheeltrims and driver’s lockers. £28,995

Andy Shaw – 0131 554 5413

UK Minicoaches – 01902 631507

9 seater, air con, alloy wheels, electric windows/mirrors, radio/CD, FSH, 74,000 miles, immaculate, choice of 2, viewing in London.

£7,250 + VAT – PX considered

POA

Telephone Jade Cassidy on 01733 293247 or email jade.cassidy@coachandbusweek.com 56 | COACH & BUS WEEK | December 11, 2013

www.coachandbusweek.com

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FORD TRANSIT MINIBUSES (12) 2012 Ford Transit 17 seat minibus 135ps air-con, tacho, COIF/PSV £19,995 (12) 2012 Ford Transit 9 seat Shuttle twin side loading doors 18000 miles £12,995 (10) 2010 Ford Transit 17 seat minibus 2.4 diesel, six speed gearbox, tacho, 55,000 km £13,495 (56) 2006 Ford Transit 17 seat minibus 2.3 diesel with six speed gearbox, 40,000 miles, COIF/PSV £8,995 (56) 2006 Ford Transit 17 seat minibus, high back seats with three point belts, COIF/PSV £8,995 (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

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 (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

OTHER MAKES

(54) 2004 LDV Convoy 17 seat school minibus, internal racks, roof rack, tachograph, 51,500miles, FSH £4,995

Renault Master 17 seat 2.8 diesel mini coach, full under floor luggage large boot, tachograph, COIF/PSV £5,995 + VAT

WHEELCHAIR ACCESS

(62) 2013 Citroen Berlingo Automatic, 8,000 miles only, low floor, lightweight ramp, electric reals, high spec £12,850 (11) 2011 Renault Master 17 seat 2.3 diesel six speed, tachograph, fully tracked floor inboard lightweight ramp, 37,000 kms £16,995 (06) 2006 Vauxhall Vivaro 1.9 cdti 9 seat, inboard lift, tracking for 2 wheelchairs, 45,000 miles £8,995 (57) 2007 Renault Master MWB 2.5TD 6 speed, tracking for two wheelchairs, in board lift, aircon, rear heating, 35,000 miles, one owner £12,495

(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

(05) 2005 Fiat Ducato 20ltr diesel SWB 6 Seat wheelchair accessible minibus, Unwin fully tracked floor to take two wheelchairs, lightweight fold out ramp, electric winch £3,995

D L O S

(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

(54) 2004 Renault Master 3.5 ton 2.5 Diesel, five speed manual gearbox,12 seats, tracking to take two wheelchairs, inboard lift, rear heating, low entry side step £6,995

(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

(53) 2003 Renault Master SWB 2.3 diesel, inboard Ricon lift,tracking for two wheelchairs, electric side step £5,995

Contact Graham Thatcher – email: sales@minibussales.co.uk

Tel: 01633 485858 Mobile: 07866 443304

Pembridge House, The Park Business Centre, Plough Road, Goytre, Penperlleni, Nr Usk, South Wales NP4 0AL – 10 minutes from M4 motorway. Viewing by appointment only

Finance Contract Hire and Finance Lease Available. We deliver Nationwide. All vehicles prepared to VOSA standard COIF/PSV specialist

All above prices are subject to VAT @ 20%

681335-1117-Ensign:Layout 1

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Ensig DOUBLE DECK 2010 ENVIRO 300

Cummins ISC Euro 5 engine, 12m, DDA, 44 seats, Hanover LED’s.

LEZ

COMPLIANT

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

1999/2000/2001 V/Y REG DENNIS TRIDENTS

13.8m, MAN engines, 89 seats, toilet, air-con.

DDA, Cummins / Allison, Alexander ALX200 bodies, 8.8m, 27 seats.

2005 NEOPLAN SKYLINER’S

2001 Y REG DENNIS DARTS

2000/2001 X/Y REG VOLVO B7TL’S

Cummins / Voith, Alexander ALX 400 lowheight body, 84 seats, LEZ compliant.

1999 DENNIS TRIDENT

80 seats, Voith gearboxes, Euro 2 engines with traps, or full Euro 3 with traps, Plaxton President bodies, can be DDA with 78 seats.

SWB, CCTV, particulate traps so LEZ compliant, Plaxton President bodies, dual door 62 seats or single door 71 seats.

1999 VOLVO B7TL’S

Merc Euro 4 engines, Mobitech LED’s, one M880 28 seats and one M950 31 seats.

2008 OPTARE SOLOS

2000 VOLVO B7TL’s

ZF gearboxes, single door, 82 seats fully seated or 80 seats as DDA compliant, supplied with new MOT and COIF, new batch just arriving.

2010 VOLVO B7RLE’S

Volvo Euro 5 engine, 12m, DDA, 45 seats, Hanover LED’s.

OPEN TOP BUSES A SPECIALITY -

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

681335-1117-Ensign:Layout 1

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Page 2

nbus

K ER SPECIALIST 1999 T/V REG DENNIS TRIDENTS

2003 52 PLATE MINI POINTER DARTS

Single door, Hanover LED’s all round, DDA compliant with Accessibility Certificate, long MOT’s.

1989-93 LEYLAND OLYMPIANS

Cummins ISB Euro 3 engines, 8.8m, 29 seats.

Cummins L10, ZF 5 speed gearboxes, some 72 coach seats, some 76 bus seats, low height 13 feet 8, long MOT’s.

2003 SCANIA OMNICITY CN94UB

2 door, Euro 3, ZF automatic, 37 seats, 12m, DDA.

Caetano Levante bodies, DDA compliant with lifts, 49 seats, toilet, air-con, recent re-trims, LEZ compliant.

2006 VOLVO B12B’S

12m, Euro 3, DDA, 42 seats.

Volvo Euro 5 engine, Optare Esteem body, 12m long, 43 seats, Hanover LED’s, low mileage.

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.

Manual gearbox, Van Hool body, 53 seats.

Cummins engine, Allison gearbox, 8.8m, 29 seats, Hanover LED’s.

Euro 4 Volvo engine, Wrights Eclipse Gemini body, 68 seats or 74 converted to single door.

2004 MERCEDES CITARO

2008 VOLVO B7RLE

2001/2002 DENNIS TRIDENTS

2009 ENVIRO 200

1996 VOLVO B10MA ARTICULATED COACHES ZF automatics, 71 seats.

1997 DAF SB3000

2007 VOLVO B9TL

1998 R REG VOLVO OLYMPIANS

Volvo Euro 2 engines, ZF gearboxes, East Lancs bodies, 72 seats.

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

699360-1117-Stafford

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FROM £7,950

£12,450

MERCEDES 814D VARIO PLAXTON BEAVER 2 2000 W reg, fitted with 31/33 H/B coach seats & belts, manual gearbox, new test and paint. £9,950

CHOICE OF 2 £7,950

VOLVO OLYMPIAN ALEXANDER BODY 1996 N REG 78 seats with belts, long or new MOT, one repainted white, currently taxed so ready to work.

FROM £7,750

OPTARE SOLO M920 2008 57 REG 33 high back seats, 3 point belts, destination, fold-out ramp, etc, tachograph, unusual DP spec.

CHOICE OF 2 £49,950

MERDECEDS 413CDI SPRINTER 2007 REG UVG treka body, 16 seats or upto 6 wheelchairs, low miles and PSV tested £21,950

£13,940

MERCEDES 413 D SPRINTER 2004 REG Extra long body with 16 seats and huge full height boot, COIF and long MOT £13,950

£8.950 DENNIS DART PLAXTON MPD 1999/2000 WITH 29 SEATS AND UP TO 24 STANDING, DDA COMPLIANT, LARGE CHOICE INCLUDING MANY “SPD’S” DUE SOON FROM MAJOR BUS COMPANY, CAN BE PAINTED, BELTED ETC ORDER YOURS NOW FROM ONLY £4950 INC TYRES

698440-1117-Connaught

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Mini Coach Sales

BRAND NEW MERCEDES BENZ FERQUI SOROCO 19 high back seats, 3 point belts, A/C, D/G, forced air, reading lights and boot.

BRAND NEW MERCEDES BENZ FERQUI SOROCO 16 high back seats, 3 point belts, A/C, D/G, forced air, reading lights and boot.

2011 61 REG MERCEDES 513 CDI TRANSFER 16 high back seats, 3 point belts, A/C, parking sensors, side entry with automatic step, luggage space.

2011 60 REG MERCEDES 816 PLAXTON CHEETAH 33 high back seats, 3 point belts, A/C, forced air, reading lights, power door and boot.

2010 59 REG MERCEDES 515 CDI TRAVEL 45 16 high back reclining seats, 3 point belts, A/C, forced air, reading lights, DVD, power door & power step, coach rear, auto.

2010 59 REG MERCEDES 313 CDI SPRINTER AUTO, 16 high back seats, 3 point belts and AC.

2008 57 REG MERCEDES 613D VARIO 24 high back seats, 3 point belts, AC, forced air, reading lights, power door and boot.

2008 58 REG MERCEDES 613D VARIO 24 high back seats, A/C, forced air, reading lights, power door and boot.

2007 07 REG MERCEDES 613 VARIO 24 high back seats, 3 point belts, forced air, reading lights, power door and boot.

2006 56 REG MERCEDES 616 CDI RIADA 22 high back seats plus courier, 3 point belts, AC, DVD, forced air, reading lights, power door and boot.

2006 56 REG MERCEDES 413CDI SOROCO 16 high back seats, 3 point belts, AC, forced air, reading lights, power door and large boot.

2002 02 REG MERCEDES 416 CDI SOROCO 16 high back seats, 3 point belts, AC, power door, large boot.

Steve Peach NEW Tel: 01405 814064 Mob: 07836 551020 Email: info@connaughtpsv.co.uk www.connaughtpsv.co.uk

p62_CBW_1117

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62 | COACH & BUS WEEK | December 11, 2013

www.coachandbusweek.com

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VUgYWcUW\gU`Yg#Wc#i_

p65_CBW_1117

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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

BUS & COACH RENTAL

The ABC of Rental Solutions

Under your control.

For the time you need it.

Bus and Coach

01274 681144

busandcoachsales@arriva.co.uk www.arrivabusandcoach.co.uk

INSURANCE

PARTS

HEATING

Heaters • A/C Equipment Blowers • Motors • Radiators Silicone Hose • Ducting Wiper Equipment • Gas Struts

Tel: 01993 849522 Fax: 01993 706920 Email: sales@thhs.co.uk

www.thhs.co.uk

UNIT 9 NIMROD BUSINESS PARK DE HAVILLAND WAY, WITNEY OX29 0YG

www.coachandbusweek.com

The ABC of Parts Support Over 17,000 parts lines directly from stock.

Next day delivery as standard.

Bus and Coach

01274 681144

busandcoachsales@arriva.co.uk www.arrivabusandcoach.co.uk

December 11, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 65

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PARTS

New Van & Minibus Parts Boxer Relay Ducato £300 pair

Daily Mirror £50

Crafter Sprinter Doors £150

Daily Rim Conti 19575R-16C

Cummins 5-9 B series Short Engine

Daily SLD £250

Cummins L10 Short Motorair

Daily Spare Wheels 22-75 16C Pirelli

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: Daily Wings £35

Digital Techo VDO 12 Volt Cont 1381

Gramma Air New Seats

Gramma Paddle Change Seats New

Drivers Suspension Seats £250

DUCATO Passenger New £175

Land Rover Defender Puma Cabs x 60

LDV Peugeot 2.5D, EN55 OE Engines

Braking • Steering • Suspension Chassis Components • Transmission Filtration • Engine • Electrical Lubricants • Consumables EXPRESS PARTS DELIVERY

Leyand GB397,390

MB Sprinter 616 Axel part no A9053500300

MB Sprinter VW LT Doors £150

MB Vario Bumpers £75

Master Part | Portland House | Dukeries Industrial Estate | Worksop | Notts | S81 7BQ

MB Vario Headlamps £35

MB Vario Wiper Motors £35

New MB Vario Parts

Nissan 2-7 TD New

Renault Master £300 Pair

RUD Matic Snow Chains

SPRINTER WING £35

Sprinter WINTER Conti 235 65 R16C

Toyota Landcruiser V8 20 inch Alloys

Transit Milenium Bus £750

Transit Millenium Doors £150

Transit Minibus Seats Unused

Transit Torneo Seats Unused £500 Pair

Transit Wheels Conti 215 75 R16C

Vauxhall Astra Mk2 C’vertible BodyShell

Volvo Compressors No 9521675

TransitVW1-9 CDI CodeANU Sharan

ZF 16S-109

ZF Astronic 12-AS1930-TD

ZF S6 36-2 Gear Boxes ZF Reman

www.cabmasters.com 01706 211 838 66 | COACH & BUS WEEK | December 11, 2013

REPAIRS

You’re in control.

Take the photos, write the ad and change it later if you want to, all from your online dashboard.

Selling a vehicle is simple on . . .

www.coachandbusweek.com

p67_CBW_1117

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VEHICLE INSPECTION TRAINING

SIGNWRITING

Sign Writing Services • School Signs – Hard Back with Suckers, Magnetic or Stick-on • Legal Lettering, Stickers, Notices & Signs • Full Colour Latex Vinyl Printing & Design Service • Vinyl Livery Cut & Posted ready to apply

Tel: 01884 290818 Mobile: 07583 334455 www.kjsupport.co.uk

TRAINING

If you would like further information please call 01543 897505 or visit www.lloydmorgangroup.co.uk

Specialist vehicle Inspection training with optional IRTEC accreditation

You’re in control.

SEATING

BUCKINGHAM 3 & 2 • Ideal for 3 & 2 configurations • Ergonomic design for maximum support, comfort and legroom • Tried & tested: fitted into many new coaches as OEM • Full range of legs and fitting options make the Buckingham ideal for upseating to 70+ seats

Take the photos, write the ad and change it later if you want to, all from your online dashboard.

Selling a vehicle is simple on . . .

• Lighter weight makes easier for installation Prime Passenger Seating Limited 7 Canalwood Industrial Estate, Chirk, Wrexham LL14 5RL Telephone: 01691 898 665 Fax: 01691 770 798 Email: johnm@primeps.com

www.primeps.com

VEHICLE SPARES

TRAINING Trevor Wigley & Son Bus Ltd

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

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

www.twigley.com

www.coachandbusweek.com

December 11, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 67

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

NEWS › XXXXXX

Little Legs likes advent Monday: Press day. At midday receive the devastating news that a family friend aged just 28 has jumped in front of a train. After dad breaks the story to me on the phone, I try to fend off emotion but find my hands shake as I sub-edit on my mac. Having told my team – as I always do when anything happens, I listen to them and nip outside for an air break. I persevere and we get the job done. However, I don’t sleep properly as I keep thinking of my mate and our last conversation a week ago...

Tuesday: A busy day in the office working on material for forthcoming issues and updating plans accordingly.

Wednesday: After dropping my better half off at work, head east to konectbus at Dereham. It’s my third visit to the firm in my time at CBW, each of which has been different – although the welcome has remained consistently warm. Questions I put to MD Julian Patterson include those suggested by CBW’s followers on Facebook. I enjoy a nice smooth journey both ways on the notorious A47 – although the car is plastered in muck.

Thursday: Before heading to the office, get my vehicle washed by the local hand car wash, which seems to have now been taken over by a group of friendly Romanians.

Work on my Movember article (see p28). As always, such features provide a prime opportunity to catch up with readers.

Friday: A busy day in the office writing, trying to get as much done on this issue. Enjoy a chat with Andrew Morse at Morse Coaches for the first time – nice guy. A PR man calls the office and is surprised by the fact I answer my own landline. I tell him that my former MD at Tanat Valley Coaches drummed it into us that a lost call is lost business.

Little Legs shows some bear faced cheek – he’s not afraid to tuck into small squares of chocolate. Malcolm West A well-known coach driver from the North East of England has gained a little companion as he tours the UK and continental Europe – although he can travel safely without a passport.

Malcolm West, a member of the Stanley Travel team, recently posted this photo of his little bear on his personal Facebook page.

The distinctive advent calendar was sent to friends of Ross Prentice and the enthusiastic team at Prentice Coaches of Haddington.

Telling CBW about this little chum, Malcolm said: “His name is ‘Little Legs’ and he was born in Leisurewear Direct’s embroidery premises in Chester�ield earlier this year. He now travels Europe in our new Van Hool TX16 Alicron.

taking off – I know several drivers are planning to get them. The cost varies between £30 and £40.”

Perhaps of note are the badges which Little Legs is proudly wearing. They include Help for Heroes, Titanic and the Coach Driver Named & Shamed forum on Facebook.

The eagle-eyed among you will doubtless spot the square of chocolate on Little Legs’ nose – in addition to the seemingly strategically placed lump in the opened window.

On that note, Malcolm explained: “While I was cleaning my coach, Little Legs managed to get hold of it and he’s eating the chocolate. The little beggar. Grrrr... By the way Ross, he says the chocolate is yummy.”

Dilbert

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“The original idea came about due to a little competition between Mark Spoors, who won UK Coach Driver of the Year at the 2013 UK Coach Rallly, and myself.

Leisurewear Direct’s Jane Drayton called it ‘the sadness levels.’

“I got Little Legs wearing full Stanley Travel uniform but Mark trumped me by having a Stanley Travel tattoo on his chest – I kid you not.

“Little Legs also enjoys free chocolates from Prentice Coaches Director Ross Prentice and he is looking forward to many happy tours to come.”

For those of you who fancy gaining your own soft companion to greet your passengers, Malcolm said: “I think these teddies are really

www.coachandbusweek.com

09/12/2013 21:39

m

Head of Purchasing we require a

contracts manager we require a

contracts manager This new role will be part of the Senior Management within the Commercial Team and will hold responsibility for the management and development of the Go South Coast portfolio of contract work. key responsibilities: investigating new contract opportunities

An attractive salary and relocation package is on offer for the right candidate.

For further information about the role or for any questions please contact Diana Wilks, Human Resources Manager (email below)

maintaining strong relationships with existing customers

Please apply with a CV and covering letter outlining why you would be the right candidate for the role to: diana.wilks@gosouthcoast.co.uk

to devise professional tender documents

Closing date for all applications is 13 January 2014

This role will cover a varied and beautiful geographical area and will be required to work with eight local authorities in addition to numerous schools, colleges and universities.

This will be a challenging and extremely rewarding role that will allow the successful candidate to be directly involved in shaping the success of the company.

HASSLE FREE DRIVERS? www.justcoachdrivers.com Hire coach drivers when you need them.

No holiday, no absence, no NI – pay only for the hours you need them for.

We keep your wheels turning while your drivers are resting.

Call Del Haggerty Just Coach Drivers Ltd 07950 292939 www.justcoachdrivers.com www.coachandbusweek.com

069_071_CBW1117_People_Recruitment.indd 69

The Head of Purchasing will report directly to Engineer Director and will be responsible for providing a robust framework for the tendering for and issue of Metroline external contracts and to provide effective logistic support to the engineering team.

Main responsibilities: • Ensuring that Metroline contracts with external suppliers are robust and comply with contract law.

• Ensuring that current contracts are reviewed and amended where necessary.

• Providing and innovative approach to new contracts to ensure the company receives best value.

• Researching best practice in the market place prior to tendering for contracts.

• Working with the Technical Team to ensure engineering contracts comply with the company procedures.

• Meeting with external suppliers to discuss innovation and technology changes that may affect current contracts.

• Ensuring that contracts are awarded in a fair and open manner, through the management of a robust and visible tendering process.

• The management and development of purchasing staff and stores personnel including sickness and absence, disciplines and back to work interviews.

• Formally briefing the Engineering Director on all engineering material supply issues.

• Overseeing the supply function of company fleet management system.

• Meeting the logistic requirements of the engineering function.

• Planning the spares supply in line with the planned maintenance requirements.

• Identifying new technologies.

• Ensuring that the stores department comply with current Health & Safety Regulations.

Essential Criteria for application: • Established procurement leader.

• Experience in cross functional support.

• Adaptable and open to change.

• CIPS qualified.

Competence & Skills: • Excellent written and spoken English with the ability to communicate clearly and at all levels; • Excellent attention for detail • Ability to operate as a team player • Ability to work well under pressure • Excellent interpersonal and organisational skills; • Must be proactive, methodical and results orientated.

• Highly organised, motivated and able to prioritise workload • Ability to manage own workload effectively and work to strict deadlines; • Exceptional customer service skills with a natural flair of providing support and guidance and going ‘the extra mile’ • Process driven and able to deliver results in a high volume.

• Ability to use initiative and identify solutions when a problem or difficult situation arises • Must be able to demonstrate credibility to build professional relationships with both employees and managers, • Discreet when managing confidential matters.

• Ability to collate and interpret statistical data; • Able to build lasting relationships with internal and external stakeholders/suppliers; • An understanding/appreciation of the service requirements and the management of day to day operational issues; • Ability to influence and persuade key decision makers; • Must be a team player and willing to develop others to increase team and individual performance.

You will work 38 hours per week, Monday to Friday, with a competitive salary.

To apply, please send a covering letter and CV to Nicola Newton, HR Assistant, Metroline, ComfortDelGro House, 329 Edgware Road, Cricklewood, London NW2 6JP. Alternatively, please e-mail nnewton@metroline.co.uk Applications should include the reasons you are applying for the post, why you believe you are a suitable candidate, and any relevant qualifications or experience.

December 11, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 69 09/12/2013 21:25

RECRUITMENT & PEOPLE Engineering Manager in Aberdeen Salary circa £45K + benefits Closing date: Friday 10th January 2013

Aberdeen is Scotland’s third largest city. It is economically dynamic and a rapidly developing centre with it’s strong links to the oil industry, striking granite architecture, and a rich and inspiring history; a great place to work, live shop and explore.

Stagecoach Bluebird, Aberdeen is looking for an experienced engineering manager to for our Tullos depot. We operate a fleet of 104 buses across North Scotland and we are looking for someone who can demonstrate a proven history in both technical and people management, preferably gained in the PCV/HGV industry, If you possess an appropriate engineering qualification, have the ability to communicate at all levels, whilst working to the highest standards of vehicle presentation, within Health and Safety guidelines and have the drive to succeed and are interested in this role, please apply by sending your CV to: Russell Henderson, Engineering Director Stagecoach North Scotland, 1 Seafield Road, Inverness IV1 1SG or email russell.henderson@stagecoachbus.com.

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DEADLINES Booking: Monday 5.00pm Full artwork: Monday 5.00pm CONTACT Ian Gillis T: 01733 293484 E: ian.gillis@coachandbusweek.com

New Holiday Specialist heads up Worthing Coaches team Worthing Coaches is growing its holiday business after hiring a new travel specialist.

Elodie Salom will be in charge of developing new day trips, weekend breaks and coach holidays. The 29 year old heads up a team of four at Worthing Coaches holiday division, with the official title of ‘Product Controller.’

Parent company Lucketts Travel Group took the unusual step of hiring a specialist recruitment agency to help find the right person for the key role.

“It comes at an important time in the development of Worthing Coaches, which has gone from strength to strength since being acquired by Lucketts Travel Group in 2005.

Elodie, who was born and brought up in France, was chosen for her enthusiasm and fresh ideas. She has recently been working for ‘Pierre et Vacances’, a French travel operator based

in Brighton, specialising in ski and summer self-catering apartments in France and Spain.

Elodie is now responsible for all of Worthing Coaches holidays and day excursions, creating exciting programmes and researching new trips for a growing customer base.

Paul Barringer, Group Sales and Marketing Director at Lucketts Travel Group, said: “We’re delighted that Elodie has joined the team at Worthing Coaches.

“It was important to us that we had exactly the right person in the job, and it’s why we used a recruitment specialist for the first time.

“Our customers are always looking to us to continue to deliver new high quality holiday experiences.

“It’s great to have someone heading up the team with such an impressive background in the travel business and the commercial world.”

www.coachandbusweek.com

09/12/2013 21:25

In association with

Diamonds at Dover depot

Three buses have had the ‘depot diamonds’ adorned on them Three employees at Dover bus depot have been honoured as ‘depot diamonds’ after Stagecoach held a competition for staff to secretly nominate colleagues who deserve recognition for their good customer service, charity work or for simply having cheery demeanour at work.

A team from Stagecoach head office then selected three people from the contenders, who would be featured on new vehicles recently added to the Diamond network bus fleet which runs between Dover, Deal, Sandwich and Canterbury.

The winners were Service Monitor Brenda Law from Whitfield, Depot Cleaner Mark Barrett from Dover and Controller Ben Bridges from Deal. Brenda was nominated by Karen Griffiths, Operations Administrator, who wrote a poem describing Brenda’s caring nature. Mark was nominated by Marie Smith, Engineering Administrator, who said he brightened her day. Ben was nominated by bus driver Nicholas Galvin for being ‘a fantastic character to work with.’

www.coachandbusweek.com

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The staff competition follows on from Stagecoach’s initiative last year when it honoured four local people from Dover and Deal for their contribution to their community as part of its Diamond Jubilee celebrations.

Philip Norwell, Managing Director of Stagecoach in East Kent said: “We were delighted to hear so much praise from our staff about their fellow colleagues. It’s always nice to recognise those who make a positive difference in the depot and having staff being able to secretly nominate others gave us a chance to honour the more humble, unassuming characters who would never draw attention to their own hard work.

“We are very pleased to have been able to invest in several new buses for the Diamond network and as we found four very commendable winners of the public competition last year, we wanted to carry on the tradition of featuring praiseworthy people on the backs of the buses, this time giving our employees the opportunity.”

McFarlane to replace Gilbert as FirstGroup Chairman FirstGroup has announced that John McFarlane will join the board with immediate effect, and succeed Martin Gilbert as Chairman effective January 1, 2014, at which time Martin will retire from the board.

John is chairman of Aviva plc, the UK’s largest insurance group by assets, having joined the board in September 2011, during which period he spent eight months in an executive capacity pending the appointment of a new CEO. Considerable progress has been made at Aviva under his leadership.

John is also non-executive director of Westfield Holdings Ltd, the world’s largest retail mall operator headquartered in Sydney, with flagship developments in London, and of Old Oak Holdings Ltd, a Londonbased privately-owned financial holding company.

John spent over 38 years in the international financial institutions sector, including ten years as CEO of Australia and New Zealand Banking Group Limited. ANZ is now one of the top 20 banks in the world by market capitalisation. Prior to that, he was Executive Director at Standard Chartered, and head of Citibank in the UK. His early career was with Ford in Dagenham in manufacturing.

More recently, in October 2008, he joined the board of the Royal Bank of Scotland Group as a non-executive director to assist in its recovery post the global

financial crisis.

John Sievwright, Senior Independent Non-Executive Director, said: “On behalf of the Board, I am pleased to announce the appointment of John McFarlane as Chairman of FirstGroup.

“John is an outstanding leader with extensive international experience and a track record of leading strategic change and value creation that speaks for itself.

“I am delighted to welcome him to the Group where his experience will be invaluable as we drive forward our plans to improve our returns, resilience and growth prospects.

“I would also like to pay tribute to Martin Gilbert who has been involved with the Group since its formation and has been instrumental in establishing its position as the leading transport operator in the UK and North America.

“On behalf of the Board and everyone at FirstGroup I would like to thank him for his enormous contribution to the Group over many years.”

John McFarlane said: “I am pleased to be joining FirstGroup at an important stage of its evolution.

“The Group has short-term challenges which we will naturally need to overcome, but I am convinced it has significant opportunity to benefit from its market-leading positions and to deliver sustainable long-term value for shareholders.”

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