Wednesday June 13, 2012 Issue 1040 | £2.95 www.coachandbusweek.com
COACH:
Buzzlines �ined for breaching drivers' hours regulations p8
INSIGHT:
BUS:
Fire research for Unite bonus payment developing safer buses greed threatens and coaches p20 London Olympics p6
CHARITY:
Transaid: Voluntary aid for developing African nations p34
for recru i
JOB ADV tment EVERY WERTS EEK
Baker & TSC respond to Competition report p16
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THIS WEEK
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Is Unite going for Gold?
N
o matter which side of the picket line you stand on the Olympic bonus payment issue, it’s hard not to admire the courage of Unite. Arguably the union is carrying out what it’s tasked with doing – securing the best terms it can for its members. It’s perhaps no coincidence that one of the union’s key figures is better known on the railways as ‘Crowbar.’ By agreeing to pay bonuses to some transport staff (Tube and Overground), hasn’t TfL made a rod for its own back? After all, it’s only fair. If anything, bus drivers face greater challenges than train drivers but of course, busmen are employed by private firms rather than the state. However, it’s hard not to conclude Unite is jumping on the bandwagon. In a rational world, if additional services are required then drivers would have the opportunity to volunteer for overtime. It reminds me of a past life with Travel West Midlands in Birmingham. You’d always get some
drivers who would be only too quick to label a handful of their colleagues as “overtime grabbers” yet oddly enough the critics never seemed to take up the offer of the aforementioned extra work… I believe the respected Leon Daniels summed it up: “Unite has already negotiated binding deals for pay and conditions with each of the London bus companies for this year and those companies are keeping their end of the deal. Attempting to tear up those agreements and get a new one with less than 50 days to go before the Games is completely reprehensible.” Finally, I’d like to pay tribute to Bob Pilbeam. A fountain of knowledge, he was always ready to enjoy a spot of banter, yet I failed to fulfil my ambition to interview him. He retained the air of authority one associates with a stereotypical ‘old school’ (traditional?) Policeman but without the stuffiness – approachability was one of his hallmarks. RIP Bob. Gareth Evans Editor
CONTENTS 4
20
38
The latest from across the coach and bus industry in the UK
12
Fredrik Rosen presents Nordic vehicle fire safety techniques
24
Scania CPC training lauded; Fourth term for First Employee Director
What’s happening across the country’s regions. Plus Events Diary
14
A look at suppliers of garage and workshop equipment
32
Climate Control from Eberspächer, & new MiX fleet analytic tool
Percentage of GDP investment in transport, TfL annual report
16
A Voel Coaches Volvo 9700 on tour in Lynton, North Devon on Friday
34
A lighthearted look at the industry. Plus Gareth’s Diary!
Part 2 of the TSC’s look at the Competition Commission’s report
Experiences of National Express staff working with Transaid abroad
All the latest people moves from across the industry
News
Regional News
Business News
Bus Competition
Vehicle Fire Safety Essential Guide Big Picture
Transaid Charity
Drivers
41
Products
61
Last Stop
62
People
For all the latest industry news and information, register with us online at:
www.coachandbusweek.com www.coachandbusweek.com
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news
“While all tyres wear out eventually, the Continental tyres are performing so much better than their predecessors... ” Mark Pitter
briefly TAS Partnership’s day of events commemorating the life of Peter Huntley has been postponed and will now take place on Wednesday October 3 in Preston. If you wish to attend, register with Heather Smith at Heather.Smith@ taspartnership.co.uk or telephone 01772 204988. 14 vehicles, including four buses, were among those damaged in a blaze at Ratho Coaches at the Clifton Industrial Estate early on Sunday morning. 17 firefighters brought the fire under control at the premises of the firm which has been trading since 1972. Lothian and Borders Police say they are treating the fire at the depot on the outskirts of Edinburgh as deliberate. Detectives have appealed for anyone who noticed any suspicious activity in the area to get in touch. Figures from SMMT show the total bus and coach sector grew 118.6% to 883 registrations in May, and was up 56.5% for January-May. Registrations of purpose-built buses and coaches rose 14.2% in the month and 44.5% in the first five months of 2012. Converted bus registrations were up 240.9% in May and 68.5% for the year-to-date. The bus and coach sector enjoyed significant growth in May, with registrations up almost 120%,” said Paul Everitt, SMMT Chief Executive. “Purpose-built buses and coaches are showing the most consistent levels of demand, but converted buses also saw a welcome return to growth in the month. Operators continue to utilise new technologies to enhance fleet reliability and efficiency with more than 650 low carbon buses registered since 2009, boosted by the Green Bus Fund.” The Paris Commercial Court has decided to accept the offer made by Eurotunnel after the administration of the SeaFrance on January 9 2012. Groupe Eurotunnel offered €65m to acquire three ships and their related assets, which will be known as Eurotransmanche. Operating independently of Eurotunnel, it will be open to the local authorities and will lease the ferries to an operating company. www.coachandbusweek.com
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Coach News p8
ADL expands ‘down under’ ADL buys Australia’s Custom Coaches bus manufacturing business, one of the biggest and longest-established bus bodying businesses on in the country, with a 24% share of the market. Alexander Dennis Limited (ADL), which recently signed a major joint venture deal with New Flyer in North America, has stepped up its globalization programme with the acquisition of Sydney-based Custom Coaches, one of Australia’s major bus manufacturers. The multi-million deal sees ADL take 100% control of the Australian business, which employs over 400 people at manufacturing sites in Sydney, New South Wales and in Adelaide, South Australia. It currently has annual sales of around £55million (A$90m) and a 24% share of the Australian bus market. ADL Chief Executive Colin Robertson said: “This is another significant step in our strategy to diversify and grow the business. It will see our group turnover increase to around £500 million per annum - a three-fold multiple in just five years - and position us well to become a major player in the southern hemisphere.
“The Custom brand is an icon in the Australian bus body market having been part of the transport landscape for 50 years. It has history, heritage and a reputation for quality products and putting customers first. Our strategy will be to invest in people, processes and products; to exploit the synergies between our companies, particularly in terms of product and technology transfer, and to further strengthen the reputation we have elsewhere in the world for best-inclass customer support. “This is the beginning of an exciting new chapter for both
Mark Burgess, MD of Custom, shaking hands on the deal with ADL Chief Executive Colin Robertson
Senior Traffic Commissioner role for Beverley Bell Beverley Bell has been appointed Senior Traffic Commissioner for the next four years. She formally took up the post on June 1. Mrs Bell has been Acting Senior Traffic Commissioner since Philip Brown’s retirement last October and becomes only the second Senior Traffic Commissioner appointed following the changes in the Local Transport Act 2008, which gave the post-holder new responsibilities to determine how the traffic commissioners perform their statutory functions. She will continue in her role as Traffic Commissioner for the North West of England.
Mrs Bell said: “Although the introduction of the Statutory Guidance and Directions provided greater clarity about the work of the traffic commissioners, there is still much work to be done in conjunction with the Department for Transport, VOSA and other Government agencies. Welcoming the news, CPT Chief Executive Simon Posner, said: “We are really pleased to welcome Beverley to her post. “She is committed to making things better for bus passengers and works tirelessly to understand the bus and coach industry and the issues which surround it. She also
Custom and ADL. It will build on the progress ADL has made in New Zealand in the last two years where our manufacturing partnership with Kiwi Bus has established us as market leader and a major supplier to cities such as Auckland and Wellington.” Mark Burgess, Managing Director of Custom, said: “We know the market intimately, while ADL is a recognised world leader in lightweight, fuel efficient vehicles, particularly midibuses and double decks. It is also admired globally for its focus on customer support. Bringing these strengths together presents the opportunity to create a powerful new force in the Australian bus manufacturing sector.” Custom produced its first vehicle in 1955. It designs and manufactures lightweight, stainless steel bodies for lowfloor city, school and midibuses, all of which are designed for a 25year life-cycle. Custom’s focus on product innovation, coupled with meticulous research and development has kept it at the forefront of the Australian market for over 50 years, producing a raft of sophisticated specialist vehicles in recent years such as articulated, CNG powered and hybrid-electric buses, along with a unique range of lowfloor buses incorporating under-floor luggage space. It has manufacturing facilities in Sydney and Adelaide and a series of aftermarket operations located strategically across the country.
Beverley Bell has been Acting Senior Traffic Commissioner since last October works closely with us in an effort to boost compliance among operators. “CPT and its members would like to offer our very best wishes to Beverley Bell on taking up her new role.”
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StreetLite Max to compete with heavy duty vehicles
Voith D824.5E 4-speed fully automated gearbox with integral hydrodynamic retarder. During service tests it achieved 10-13 mpg. In common with smaller StreetLite buses the new 11.5 metre Max model features daytime running lights, front crash protection and high visibility brake
Wrightbus has unveiled an 11.5m version of its StreetLite – the Streetlite Max and according to the firm, significant interest has already been shown by major operators in trials earlier this year. The vehicle is available to order immediately and Wrightbus expects to complete the first deliveries by autumn. The StreetLite Max is 2,445mm wide and 2,990mm high. It provides a maximum seating capacity of 44 and is compliant with all current and proposed EU vehicle legislation. Powered by the Cummins four-cylinder (138kw or 155kw) iSBe Euro 5 compliant engine, the StreetLite Max has a responsive, flexible and fuel efficient power plant, perfectly matched to the
The StreetLite Max: Lightweight and economical but with a higher passenger capacity
Ensign hybrid lost in fire
started to burn. “We pushed it away from the building but the heat was so intense we had to abandon it and the flames spread to an ex-Dublin Olympian. Despite there being a Fire Station just three miles down the road, it took the fire engines 45 minutes to arrive. There’s nothing left, barely enough to call a chassis. “I can’t praise our staff enough. Thankfully, no-one was injured. We can always buy another bus. “I can’t say what went wrong yet but our investigation will consider whether the hybrid technology was a contributory factor.”
Ensignbus’ ex Dublin Bus Wright hybrid double decker was destroyed in a fire on Saturday. Director Ross Newman told CBW: “The bus arrived back at the yard from its daily duties and was parked up. About 30 minutes later at 1845hrs a cleaner rushed in and said it was making funny noises. We went out to look and heard popping noises – as if someone was arc welding inside the bus – then it
£750
UDIT
IANCE A
COMPL
lights. The StreetLite Max also has a better turning circle than heavy duty single deck competitors. In addition operators benefit from a Wrightbus 10 year structural warranty and a 12 year design warranty, and as with all Wrightbus vehicles, StreetLite Max comes with lifetime support from Wright
AT PLUS V
tel: 08450 575 111
Go-Ahead acquires HC Chambers & Son Limited On June 2 2012, the Go-Ahead Group acquired what is claimed to be “oldest bus company in the UK,” HC Chambers & Son Limited. Established in 1877, the Buresbased company operates on the Essex/Suffolk border, with 27 vehicles and 33 staff.
Customcare. A network of Mobile Support Engineers and Customer Service Centres minimises any unplanned downtime through efficient servicing, repairs and parts support. Since the launch in June 2010, StreetLite has proven popular with operators from across the UK and Ireland, with over 100 vehicles delivered to companies including, Arriva, Go Ahead, Stagecoach, Reading Transport and Thamesdown Transport. Wright Group MD Mark Nodder said: “Our target was to produce a high capacity lightweight bus, which was more economical to own than any similar vehicle. The StreetLite product range is specifically designed to address the growing requirements of our customers and the new 11.5m Max variant delivers greater fuel efficiency, combined with the increased seating capacity associated with a larger bus.” For further details visit www.wright-bus.com/ The firm’s fleet is dominated by step entrance vehicles, including P, R & S reg Volvo Olympians. A small coach fleet is also run, including a wheelchair lift fitted M reg Van Hool Volvo B10M and a pair of 55 reg Mercedes Touros for private hire. Chambers is the fourth independent in the region to join Go-Ahead, following konectbus in 2010, more recently Hedingham Omnibuses in March and Anglian Bus in April 2012. As a result of the acquisition, Chambers’ Bures garage has closed and all operations have moved to Hedingham’s Sudbury depot.
Contains 100% compliance Long lasting protection L
email: julia.davies@backhouses.co.uk www.coachandbusweek.com
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The number of people killed on Tanzania’s road each year – according to the charity Transaid
briefly Sunday June 17 is this year’s Weymouth Vintage Bus Running Day at Lodmoor Coach and Car Park, supported by South West Coaches. The organisers promise a high level of entries either as static exhibits or for use on free services, including a varied selection from Regents to VRs, REs to B6s, Leopards, S23s, Nationals, Olympians, Ks, B10Ms, Mercs, Guys and Bedfords. A mix of routes old and new around the local area and out as far as Portland Bill (offering spectacular views) are planned. It starts from 1000hrs at Lodmoor Car and Coach Park, near the Sea Life Centre on the eastern end of the seafront. For visitors arriving by train or parking in the town centre, a shuttle bus is running from the station forecourt. Buses are timed to meet the trains and depart at 0945, 1020, 1050, 1150, 1243 and 1343. Visit www.weymouthvbrd. co.uk for full details. Go South Coast’s Wilts & Dorset and Bluestar are offering dads free travel on Father’s Day in Bournemouth, Poole and Southampton. Nikki Honer, Commercial Manager for Wilts & Dorset said it is the first time that any child buying a bus ticket in the selected saver zones can take dad along with them absolutely free. “Many of us here are parents and we know kids love to be independent and want to spoil their dads on father’s day. Any type of child ticket purchased on Father’s day, be it a single, return or dayrider, as long as dad is travelling too, he gets to go free.”
Unite game for Olympic strike Transport for London has responded to the result of a strike ballot from Unite. The union is demanding a £500 “bonus” for each of the 24,000 bus drivers in London for working during the London 2012 Games. The leadership of Unite threatened strike action by drivers ahead of or even during the Games. TfL maintains that bus drivers are employed by private companies and their pay and conditions are a matter for those operators. TfL added passengers will find it hard to understand why Unite is demanding a bonus which would cost £12m in total for those working as usual during the London 2012 Games. Leon Daniels, TfL’s MD of Surface Transport, said: “I am not surprised
70% of London’s bus drivers did not vote for strike action. That is because about 70% of London’s local bus services are not affected by the Olympic Games. The whole country is really entering into the spirit of the Games and the overwhelming responsible majority are pulling out all the stops to make it a huge success. Only Unite appears to want to exploit it by adding a further multi-million pound burden to the hard-pressed farepayers and taxpayers of London. “We are really disappointed the Unite leadership is encouraging its members to take this unnecessary strike action. Unite has already negotiated binding deals for pay and conditions with each of the London bus companies for this year and those companies are keeping their end of the deal. Attempting to tear up those agreements and get a new one with less than 50 days to go before the Games is completely reprehensible and out-of-step with
every other provider of services in this city this summer.” An Arriva spokesman explained on LBC 97.3 the routes it operates are unlikely to see any increase in passenger numbers for the Olympics. Because of Arriva’s contract with TfL, any increase in passenger numbers doesn’t mean a gain in revenue. He said: “Many of the routes operated by Arriva are unlikely to see any material increase in passenger numbers over the period of the Olympic Games but if additional services are required then drivers would have the opportunity to volunteer for overtime.” Unite’s Peter Kavanagh, said: “This is barefaced hypocrisy of the highest order. TfL chiefs on six figure salaries are in line to earn Olympic bonuses worth 160 times more than busmen are asking for.” Leon Daniels responded: “These are spurious and inaccurate claims by Unite. TfL’s Chief Officers are not receiving an additional ‘bonus’ for performance during the Olympics.” Unite said it’s giving bus companies a final opportunity to make an offer before it decided whether to announce strike dates. It comes as the RMT Union secured another bonus for its members.
yourbus’s recently launched Intranet (tap) for all staff proved a hit during the recent Jubilee celebrations.
Touch screens located in traffic offices allow drivers to view and print information on their duty, along with news and promotions the company is offering. John Everill, yourbus Marketing Manager and designer of tap, said: “tap came into it’s own over the Bank Holiday weekend. As road and stop closures came in from National Express, they were added
to the intranet, meaning drivers as far away as Durham could see what would affect their duty. “It’s not all serious stuff. Staff are actively tracking the progress of three of our ‘larger’ members of staff who form our Weight Busters as they pledge to lose pounds over the coming weeks.” tap has drastically reduced the number of paper notices.
Operators and TfL express disappointment at the ballot results and Arriva claim they will see little change during the games
yourbus drivers are tapping away
www.coachandbusweek.com
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£55m 44 Annual sales of ADL’s newly acquired Custom Coaches
The claimed seating capacity of the new Wrightbus Midi Lux single decker bus
Reading Transport agrees trial with Envirox
Reading Transport is carrying out a full commercial trial on Energenics’ fuel saving additive Envirox across its 130-strong bus fleet. An additive dosing unit will be installed to treat the bulk diesel fuel storage tanks with Envirox for an initial 12 month period. Through the use of Envirox, Reading aiming for an average fuel saving of 4%. James Freeman, CEO at Reading Transport, said: “We continue to strive for cost savings while improving our environmental performance. Envirox has the potential to address both these aims without any capital investment.” Reading Transport has a track record of investing in fuel and vehicle technologies. Stagecoach UK Bus has used Envirox nationally since 2005, followed more recently by East Yorkshire Motor Services. For more information on Envirox, call 01865 233010
Industry share prices at the close of the Stock Exchange on Monday, June 11. BAE Systems saw the greatest proportional rise while Optare experienced the biggest proportional drop. Most figures obtained from www.iii.co.uk
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The Bath Bus Company has become the first operator outside London to see the New Bus for London appear on one of its services. Normally operated by Arriva, the first of the pre-production run (LT1: LT61 AHT) was used on the Warminster service 23A, which crosses Salisbury Plain. The 23A serves the “lost” village of Imber, approximately once per year, when the Ministry of Defence permits public access across this normally restricted area. Previously, all other buses used on the service have been standard Routemasters. This means Bath Bus Company was the first user to carry a fare-collecting conductor (in London the conductor doesn’t handle cash) and after Arriva, which operates all the London prototypes, is only the second operator of a bus of this type. All fares collected on this service are donated to charity. Plans to use such a bus remained secret until a few days before the event, but considerable public interest was attracted nevertheless.
Centro launches joint ticket agreement A ticketing deal, facilitated by Centro, has been struck between National Express West Midlands (NXWM) and Midland Buses for the route 10 between Wolverhampton and Perton, making return tickets on the route valid across both operators’ services. It is the first arrangement of its kind in the West Midlands and was made possible following the voluntary multilateral agreement between Centro and bus operators, after the Wolverhampton and west Walsall review in 2011. The review saw the timetable on route 10 become co-ordinated with evenly spaced departures, from which the ticketing arrangement is a direct result. Stephen Rhodes, Passenger
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Pictured at the launch are: Kevin Crawford of Midland, Councillor Jon Hunt and Andy Foster of National Express West Midlands Services Director for Centro, said: “This kind of versatility makes bus travel even more appealing and practical for the travelling public and I look forward to similar arrangements being rolled out across the West Midlands network.” Andy Foster, Head of Network Management for NXWM, said: “Since the Wolverhampton bus review we have seen an increase in
passengers – up to 3% more in the city centre. Innovative ideas such as this will cement and build on that growth.” Kevin Crawford, Operations Manager for Midland, said: “Where two operators can work together in such a way the big winners will be the passengers. “I hope this is only the start and we can extend this to other routes.”
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news › coaches
“We got very clear views from passengers we spoke to that what mattered to them was frequency, reliability and quality of service.” Jeremy Peat Competition Commission
briefly Overnight work started on Monday, June 11 to improve safety on the M20 between Maidstone and Ashford in Kent. Road markings and studs will be renewed on both carriageways of the motorway between junctions eight and nine. All work is being carried out between 2000 and 0600hrs to minimise disruption. The scheme is expected to finish, weather permitting, on Friday, July 6. A temporary 50mph speed limit is enforced. Long established coach operator Emmersons Coaches Ltd of Immingham ceased trading on the June 1, 2012. The firm was established around 1965 by the late Mick Emmerson, a former employee of Peter Sheffield of Cleethorpes. Its fleet size peaked at around 18 coaches. Emmerson’s school contracts have been transferred to local operators and coaches disposed of to a local auction. The remaining staff have all been made redundant. Private investor Richard Telling has purchased the business and assets of Falcon Coaches Ltd, allowing previous owner Tony Risby to take retirement. Falcon Travel, started by Tony in 1974, has a fleet of four vehicles and three full time staff, based in Shepperton Middlesex. Richard Telling said: “I would first like to wish Tony a long and happy retirement. Purchasing the company has allowed me to achieve the goal of owning my own coach business. Falcon Travel which has now become Falcon Coaches has a great reputation as a high quality operator and will give me an excellent foundation to take the business forward.” A key cross-country Welsh road link is to be closed for nine-weeks. A 2.5-mile (4km) stretch of the B4391, which links Llangynog with Bala is to be closed from June 25 until August 3 while major rebuilding work is carried out by Denbighshire Council on the notoriously rough stretch. As a result, a lengthy diversion is in effect – either via Llangollen or Dolgellau – but the council said the work might only take four weeks. www.coachandbusweek.com
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Coliseum switches to Continental tyres Renowned South Coast operator says Continental have proved “very cost-effective” option Since making the decision to specify Continental tyres throughout its vehicle fleet, Coliseum Coaches claims it has been getting better overall tyre performance, and saving money at the same time. Following an extensive evaluation program on two of its coaches, Coliseum switched to Continental tyres in 2011. As the company runs frequent trips to Scotland, it opted for Continental winter tyres, which provide good grip and higher levels of safety in the winter, but also give good mileage when used all year round. The fleet now runs on Continental HSW2 Coach tyres at the front, and HDW2 Scandinavia variants on the rear. The Southampton-based coach company, which was recently acquired by Lucketts – has just
Buzzlines fined £44k for abusing drivers hours
Kent coach operator Buzzlines Travel has been found guilty of abusing driver’s hours regulations. Following a VOSA investigation the Hythe-based firm pleaded guilty to 32 drivers hours offences, a further 10 of failing to produce driver’s hours records with 34 other similar offences taken into consideration. The firm carried out national and international coach work and commuter transport into London. It was also involved in school transport and staff transport for two large companies. On May 30 a court imposed a fine of £44,000 and ordered the company to pay the prosecution costs of £50,000. Nigel Busbridge, Director, pleaded guilty to 17 drivers’ hours offences and was fined £9,000 plus
taken delivery of three new Neoplan Tourliners, which are already equipped with the nowstandard Continental winter tyre specification. Coliseum is delighted with the savings that have been made thanks to Continental’s products. “In the past, tyres from other manufactures have not given us very good wear patterns, especially on the steer axles,” explained Mark Jordan of Coliseum Coaches. “While all tyres wear out eventually, the Continental tyres are performing so much better than their predecessors. These tyres are also better value, so it proved a very cost-effective bit of business to select Continental.” Mr Jordan claims the tyres seem much better suited to the independent front suspension setup Coliseum’s Neoplan Tourliner coaches have. “We operate around 120 departures to Scotland all through the year, so about 10 years ago, we switched to drive axle
tyres because we got more mileage out of them and much better grip,” he added. “The Continental Scandinavia drive tyres perform very well, and are very reliable for these journeys.” Tyre fitting, maintenance and monitoring of the Coliseum fleet is carried out by Conti360° Partner, Tructyre in Winchester, and Mr Jordan also enlists the help of Continental to check tread depths and advise on pressures. The HSW2 Coach tyre has been designed to cope with slush, ice and tightly packed snow to give superior braking combined with good steering response. The HDW2 Scandinavia is a specialist drive axle tyre to give the kind of traction no summer tyre can match in wintry conditions. The latest winter tyres from Continental also provide greater comfort for passengers with low noise levels owing to the optimised tread patterns.
Buzzlines is no stranger to investing in its fleet – including this Irizar £15,000 prosecution costs and £15 victim surcharge. Thirteen drivers pleaded guilty to a total of 37 driver’s hours offences including three of making false records and two driving licence offences. They received fines totalling £1,800 with costs of £1,050 and all paid a £15 victim surcharge. Three drivers who made full and frank admissions at interview and pleaded guilty at the earliest
opportunity were given six month conditional discharges. Alex Fiddes, Operations Director for VOSA said: “This fine sends a strong message to the bus and coach industry. Driver’s hours rules are in place to protect passengers and other road users. Operators must keep records of the hours their drivers have spent behind the wheel in order to prove they have taken enough rest. Tired drivers are dangerous drivers.”
11/06/2012 19:59
IN PARLIAMENT…
New Citylink services Irish Citylink, the independent Irish coach operator, is starting the firstever express coach service between Cork and Galway on June 18. Operating six times a day, the new service claims to provide the fastest travelling times between the cities. It includes early morning and late evening journeys, plus links to Limerick City and Cork Airport. The coach fleet has been upgraded to provide passengers with free Wi-Fi, onboard toilet facilities, air conditioning and extra legroom. “Our daily early morning and late evening services, which are currently not being offered by any other operator, will be of particular benefit to people travelling to work, Obituary
Bob Pilbeam Bob Pilbeam, a former Coaching Consultant for the CPT, died peacefully in hospital on Wednesday, June 6, following a long battle with illness. His family were at his side. Bob served with the Metropolitan Police for 30 years from 1964. Starting as a Community Constable in North Southwark, he moved on to become a Sergeant at Chelsea before spending 12 years with the Met’s Traffic Management Team where he was responsible for running the Coach Advisory Service. Bob, also a qualified London Blue Badge Tourist Guide, joined CPT as Coaching Consultant in 1994,
college or medical appointments,” said David Conway, Business Operations Manager, Irish Citylink. “The travelling time between Galway and Cork will be two hours and 50 minutes, which is 25 minutes quicker than other existing coach services. The journey time between Cork and Limerick will be one hour and 30 minutes, which will be of particular benefit to those making daily commutes between the two cities.” Irish Citylink claims it carried 330,000 passengers during the first five months of 2012, a 15% increase on the numbers carried in the same period last year. Conway believed the ending of domestic air services and rising cost of fuel have contributed to an increase in the numbers using Citylink services. Irish Citylink is based in Galway City and employs 80 staff. where he worked for over 15 years. Bob represented and advised CPT members on the many complex issues of coach parking and regulations in the UK. He received a number of awards for his services to the UK’s coaching industry, including Couch Tourism Council’s Special Contribution to Coach Tourism in Great Britain (96/97), Group Travel’s Outstanding Contribution to the Group Travel Industry (05) and UK Coach Awards Unsung Heroes (09). The CPT said: “CPT is saddened to hear of Bob’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with Bob’s family, friends and colleagues at this difficult time. He will be sorely missed.” Details of Bob’s funeral will be published as soon as they are known.
EU COACH PASSENGER RIGHTS IMPLEMENTATION Kate Green (Stretford and Urmston, Labour) asked the Secretary of State for Transport what progress is being made on plans for the implementation of Regulation 181/2011/EU in relation to coach travel for disabled people. Green also asked whether journeys within the UK which are in excess of 155 miles in total but which are made up of separate individual legs of less than 155 miles on different coaches will be treated as a single journey for which assistance is available under Regulation 181/2011/EU on the rights of bus and coach passengers. Additionally, Green asked what consideration has given to reducing the period of notice required under Regulation 181/2011/EU from the proposed 36 hours for UK coach operators. Norman Baker (Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Regional and Local Transport), Transport; Lewes, Lib Dem) replied: “The EU Passenger Rights Regulation will apply from March 1 2013. As a Regulation, it will be directly applicable. However, each Member State is responsible for putting in place enforcement measures and deciding whether to use the time-limited exemptions available to delay the
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application of certain aspects of the Regulation. We will be consulting on these issues shortly. “The Government is currently considering whether guidance on the application of the Regulation is required, but we can’t give a definitive interpretation of the law, as it’s a matter for the courts.” On the final question, Baker responded: “The Government is not minded at present to go beyond the requirements of the EU Regulation, which was agreed after two years of detailed negotiations.” SQBP CONSULTATION Bridget Phillipson (Houghton and Sunderland South, Labour) asked the Secretary of State for Transport what steps the DfT is taking to encourage transport authorities to consult on the introduction of voluntary partnerships or quality contracts; and if a statement will be made. Norman Baker replied: “Local transport authorities have a statutory duty to consult on Quality Contract Schemes should they wish to introduce them. The Department has issued guidance which sets out its expectation that prior to the statutory notice and consultation stage, local transport authorities will discuss their proposals with local bus operators, passenger groups and other interested parties. There is no statutory duty to consult on voluntary partnership schemes, but the Department would expect a similar approach to be adopted.”
www.coachandbusweek.com
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news › international
New bi-artic hybrid from Van Hool at Paris show Van Hool shows Exqui.City Design Mettis at Transports Publics show FRANCE Van Hool previewed its Exqui.City Design Mettis at Transports Publics, the biennial European mobility exhibition in Paris last week. The 24m long, bi-articulated bus has a (dieselelectric) hybrid drive system for use in and round the city of Metz (France) from September 2013. Mettis, Metz’s public transport project, has ordered 27 Exqui.City hybrids for the scheme. The Exqui.City Design Mettis is the result of close collaboration between Metz Métropole, its study group Mettis and Van Hool. This ambitious project has seen Van Hool enter the French market of BHNS (Bus à Haut Niveau de Service, or Bus with a High Level of Service). It is to be the first BHNS fleet of 100% hybrid vehicles on the road in France. The new BHNS vehicles from Van Hool combine the flexibility of a bus with the punctuality of a light railway and offer passengers a luxurious, user-friendly means of transport. In order to do this Van Hool has developed a design combining a ‘flawless, superior environment with high commercial speed.’ Van Hool says it clearly distinguishes itself from traditional buses and presents an image of public transport delivering a high
level of service. The separate driver’s cabin is said to guarantee ergonomic comfort, leading to improved driver performance and enhanced safety. It offers the usual hybrid benefits of: Recovery of braking energy; Optimised performance of the diesel engine; Emission reduction; Reduced fuel consumption; Electric drive; and reduced noise. The exterior design, which is neutral and elegant plus its aerodynamic front and rear profile emphasises its purpose as a fast and reliable mode of transport. In addition to low aerodynamic resistance, the curved sides at the front and rear make it extremely flexible and enable it to move and manoeuvre easily and very safely in
The 24m bi-articulated Exqui.City Design Mettis is the result of close collaboration between Metz Métropole, Van Hool and Mettis
Electric bus fleet for Schiermonnikoog NETHERLANDS The island of Schiermonnikoog, which houses the Netherlands’ first National Park, is to launch Europe’s cleanest bus fleet. The city of Schiermonnikoog in the province of Friesland, is situated on the 16 km-long island and is virtually car-free. Home to about 1,000 residents, over 350,000 visit the island every year and will now ride on six new, long-range, all-electric BYD buses which will be brought into service in early 2013. In a European legal tender and www.coachandbusweek.com
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an urban environment. Van Hool’s interior design emphasises quality by using simplicity and attention to detail. Specialists opted for a layout with uninterrupted lines, indirect lighting and innovative airconditioning to increase comfort and accessibility. In addition to Metz, both Barcelona (Spain) and Parma (Italy) have shown interest. Barcelona has ordered three Exqui. City bi-articulated diesel-electric hybrid buses. Delivery is planned for the beginning of 2013. T.E.P. (Trasporti pubblici Parma), the public transport company in Parma has ordered nine Exqui.City hybrid trolleybuses. Delivery will commence in the coming weeks.
open bid supported by four major bus manufacturers, China-based BYD came out on top. BYD scored the highest in meeting program goals, winning an order for the six electric buses plus a 15-year maintenance contract. Friesland Provincial Executive Director Johannes Kramer said: “Friesland now leads Europe in green transport. We’ll soon have a fully-electrified public transportat service with these six BYD electric buses. This is good for
Schiermonnikoog, good for tourism, and great for the environment.” The BYDs are comparable to the buses now serving Schiermonnikoog in terms of size. They are 12m long and can accommodate 60-70 passengers. However, the BYD electric bus can be charged at night and with a range of over 250-300 Km per charge (less than 180 miles), they can provide service all day without needing a top-up. This project supports Friesland province’s stated goal to be fully independent of fossil fuels. Visit the BYD website at www.byd.com
The new fleet of low floor buses will play key role in a new integrated bus transit system
First Solo SR leaves Busmark production line SOUTH AFRICA The first of 190 Optare Solo SR’s destined for feeder services in Cape Town rolled out of the plant of Optare’s South African partner, Busmark, last week. Assembled from a CKD kit of components, it is the first of 30 scheduled for delivery before the end of June 2012. The Solos will play key role in a new integrated bus transit system being introduced by the City of Cape Town Council, which forms part of its ‘MyCiTi’ initiative. The Solo SR’s incorporate doors on both sides for quick boarding and exit. They will collect passengers from outlying townships and take them to transfer points where they board 12 or 18m buses for transport to various destinations in the city. The 9.5m version of the Solo SR integral midibus features full air conditioning and is fitted with a real time monitoring and tracking system, CCTV and telematics. Busmark has opened a new factory in Cape Town to produce the buses and its labour force there has been trained with the help of Optare personnel both in Leeds and on the ground. Glenn Saint, Optare’s Chief Technical Officer, was in Cape Town for the handover ceremony. He said: “This is a flagship vehicle in more ways than one. Not only is this Optare’s largest ever export order but it’s the first time the Solo has been delivered in CKD form. It is a signpost to our future export growth, since we plan to exploit our competitive product offering in a number of major markets where we already have firm inquiries.”
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22 + Driver Politecnica Arcol seats in Mercedes fabric. Leather head rests. Armrest to isle side, Auto gearbox. Front and Rear Air Conditioning. Saloon heater with heater booster, 3 stage entry door. Electric front door, Privacy glass.
ASSURED CONFIDENCE IN DEALING DIRECTLY WITH THE MANUFACTURER
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news › REGIONAL
SCOTLAND
McGill’s Buses pledged £2,000 to Mortons Youth Academy at the end of a recent sportsman’s dinner. The donation for the initiative - headed by club development consultant Warren Hawke - was on top of a whole host of auction items which the firm claimed on the night. More than £17,000 in total was raised from the dinner. Derek Anderson, head of youth development at Cappielow, said: “This was a fantastic bonus at the end of an excellent sportsman’s dinner. We knew we were going to make a reasonable amount of money with so many fantastic prizes and generous people. But, at the end of the night, to be handed a cheque for such a large amount of money is above and beyond anything we could have expected. For that we are really appreciative.” McGill’s owner Sandy Easdale said: “It’s important that local businesses get behind our local team and support their efforts to bring on young talent. The McGill’s team had a great night and I wish Warren every success with the youth academy.”
REPUBLIC OF IRELAND
Bus Éireann has told unions from August 13, it will introduce measures to make savings of €20m, with €9m expected to come from payroll savings. While it is not seeking redundancies or cuts in basic pay at present, it says this is conditional on implementation of a significant package of cost reductions to employees’ terms and conditions. Management has presented a five-year plan aimed at reducing the company’s deficit to €5m this year and returning it to profitability next year. The company stressed without these measures it faces potential annual losses of €16m. According to the plan, the company’s voluntary serverance scheme will remain in place for 12 months at the discretion of the company. However, it notes funding for voluntary severance is problematic given the deteriorating financial situation. Bus Éireann wants clerical and executive employees to increase their working week from 36 hours to 39, while annual leave for all staff will be cut by three days for three years. Sick pay entitlements will be www.coachandbusweek.com
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KEY
SCOTLAND NORTHERN IRELAND REP OF IRELAND NORTH WALES MIDLANDS EAST LONDON SOUTH EAST SOUTH WEST
reduced - with uncertified sick days from four to two per year. Overtime, shift and premium payments will all be reduced. Other expense payments will also be “eliminated, amalgamated and reduced.” New recruits will start on lower wage rates. Bus Éireann also wants unions to agree to new outsourcing arrangements and redeployment both between departments and geographical areas without compensation. Despite reducing its cost base by 17% (€30m) since 2009, it has come under pressure from the 20% fall in passenger numbers, competition from new operators on intercity routes, higher fuel costs and a €25m cut in government subvention over the last three years. Meanwhile, Iarnród Éireann staff are currently balloting on a package of cost reduction measures including 450 redundancies - while Dublin Bus management and unions are due to meet for similar cost reduction negotiations.
NORTH
First in South Yorkshire has donated money to help fund the work of a Sheffield-based contact centre for children from separated families. St Andrew’s Child Contact Centre, off West Street, was presented with a cheque for £600 by First. The contact centre offers a safe and welcoming place where the
children of separated parents can meet the non-resident parent, whom they would otherwise potentially lose touch with. Many of the people who use the centre, which opened in 1995, are referred by family courts in Sheffield and the centre is seen as a vital support through the early stages of family separation. Funding was granted by First’s regional charity committee. One of its members, bus driver Derek Russell, said: “We see it as our responsibility to offer support.”
EAST
The bygone days of a Lowestoft bus builder are to be remembered with a special weekend event at the East Anglia Transport Museum in Carlton Colville. This coming weekend (June 16/17), the museum is holding an Eastern Coach Works event to mark the 25th anniversary of the bus factory closing. Between 1931 and 1987 Eastern Coach Works supplied buses all over the world. During the weekend many of the buses which were built at the factory dating from the 1940s to 1987 will be on display. It will also display its new exhibit in the shape of the last bus built at the factory, which was numbered L263 and was nicknamed the Lucky Last Bus by the few remaining factory staff in 1987. A spokesman for the museum
said: “Twenty five years since the last bus was built at the Eastern Coach Works factory in Lowestoft, join us for a celebration of our local bus builder.” The event, sponsored by Anglian Bus, runs from 1300 to 1700hrs on the Saturday and from 1030 to 1700hrs on the Sunday. It costs £7.50 for adults, £6.50 for OAPs and £5.50 for children, with the museum’s usual exhibitions and rides available. There are also free bus services available to get to and from the museum on both days. Visit www. eatm.org.uk for further information. Students with a good attendance rate could be eligible for subsidised bus travel to and from school under new plans mooted by a principal. Thetford Academy pupils are currently taught across two sites but plans are in place to move all to the North Campus by September next year. To ease the transition between sites, a free bus for year seven pupils who live near the school’s South Campus has been provided for the past year by the academy, at a cost of £25,000, but this was only ever short-term. The school said it is in talks with Norfolk County Council and local operators to try to come to a solution whereby pupils living some distance away could take an existing public bus at an appropriate time in a safe way. While not free, pupils with an attendance of 95% or higher during the year could be eligible for reduced fares subsidised by the school. Academy Principal Cathy Spillane said: “We’re working with providers to get them here at a good time on a good route and we would look at subsidised bus fares for children who have good attendance, for example. “Then the onus is on parents to encourage the children to come to school if they knew they wouldn’t have to pay the full fare.”
SOUTH EAST
A petition with 117 signatures for dedicated buses to Tonbridge and Tunbridge Wells has been blocked by Kent County Council after parents complained the 267 bus, which is run by Arriva but funded by the council, was so full pupils were forced to stand in the stairwell and in luggage compartments. The service runs from
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Coach & Bus Week takes a look at the big issues where you live in our round-up of the regions. If you’ve got a local issue you would like us to cover, contact James Day at james.day@rouncymedia.co.uk. Hawkhurst to Bennett Memorial School via Tonbridge and collects and drops off children from communities including Cranbrook, Goudhurst, and Horsmonden. Tom Pierpoint, public transport team leader for the council, told campaigners there would be no changes. He said: “There is no funding available to provide additional resources and therefore I have no option but to confirm that KCC cannot split the service as requested by the petition. I am satisfied the current arrangement is safe and robust and ensures all passengers are able to travel to their destinations.”
SOUTH WEST
Wilts & Dorset launched a bus service on June 3, offering a high frequency on a circular route linking Poole to Hamworthy, Turlin Moor, Upton, Creekmoor and Oakdale. Buses, sporting a new livery as an extension of the company’s ‘more’ network will run every 15 minutes on the 8 and 9 services dubbed as the “Round the harbour” service. The local authority has recently revised traffic calming in the Turlin Moor area with the replacement of speed tables with the more ‘bus friendly’ speed cushions. The area will now see a doubling of the numbers of buses to Poole,
from four to eight per hour in the daytime. Julian McLaughlin, Head of Transportation Services, said: “This is an excellent example of our Quality Bus Partnership with the operators working in practice and delivering key improvements to services. The new routes give some great new direct journey opportunities.” Ed Wills, Operations Director at Wilts & Dorset, said the new service was one of many enhancements made to the company’s network on June 3 aimed to encourage more people to board the buses. He added: “Our passengers in Hamworthy are already enjoying a more reliable service thanks to the introduction of the Twin Sails Bridge and we are confident these new links will be equally popular. “We’re constantly monitoring our services and listening to customers’ suggestions, it’s the only way we can maximise the resources of drivers and our bus fleet to carry as many people as possible. The changes are designed to make bus travel more convenient for the majority of our customers and the continued growth is proof we are creating a substantially more user friendly network.” Full details of the changes to services can be found by visiting www.wdbus.co.uk.
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DATES FOR YOUR DIARY
South Cerney Airfield in Cirencester plays host to the popular Bedford OB Get-Together from August 3 to 5 this year
2012 n June 19-21 ATCO Summer Conference. Jury’s Inn Hotel, Birmingham. www.atco.org.uk n June 22 CILT Wales National Transport Awards lunch. Cardiff City Hall. 01446 451227. www.ciltuk. org.uk/pages/regions/wales n June 22-24 Titfield Thunderbolt Weekend. A celebration of the 60th anniversary of the filming of the famous Ealing Studios comedy film ‘The Titfield Thunderbolt’. North Norfolk Railway, Sheringham, Norfolk. 01263 820800.
www.nnrailway.co.uk
n June 24 Hollycombe Bus & Coach Rally. Hollycombe Working Steam Museum Iron Hill, Liphook, Hampshire. 01428 724900. www.
hollycombe.co.uk
n July 1 Reading Transport Great Knollys Street Open Day. 11 – 1600hrs. 0118 959 4000. www.reading-buses.co.uk n July 15 Alton Bus Rally & Running Day. Mid Hants Railway, Alton, Hampshire. www.watercressline.co.uk
A team from Stagecoach in Aldershot attended the Around the World in 80 Minutes event, a celebration of community life where local schools offered a rich and diverse choice of cultural activities for families, as part the company’s annual Green Week. Operations Manager Richard Tyldsley with drivers Karen Falvey and John Clarke gave out special promotional Eco Kit bags to help promote the use of buses in the region at the event hosted by Beaumont Junior School. “Not every child uses the bus to travel to school so we had some very excited young visitors on our display bus,” said Richard Tyldsley. “We hope many will encourage parents to consider hopping on a bus to help reduce exhaust emissions and traffic congestion.” Stagecoach’s annual Green Week aims to raise awareness of environmental issues amongst staff and passengers through a series of events.
n July 16-18 TPM. The tenth annual conference of the Transport Practitioners Meeting (TPM) will be held at the John Moores University, Liverpool www.ciltuk.org n August 3-5 Bedford OB GetTogether. South Cerney Airfield, Cirencester, GL7 5QB. Contact the organiser Tim Wootton by email on tim@tjcs.freeserve.co.uk. Visit http://www.bedfordob.com/ n August 27 The National Association of Road Transport Museums gala day. The Transport Museum, Wythall, near Birmingham. www.wythall.org.uk
n September 6 Association of Trainers AGM. Steele Road, Wembley Julia@asot.org.uk 01797 344251 n September 8-9 UK Bus Driver of the Year, Blackpool. Call competition secretary Bill Holmes on 01303 251462. www.bdoy.co.uk n Sept 9 Amberley Bus Show. Amberley Museum and Heritage Centre, West Sussex. www.amberleymuseum.co.uk n September 16 Showbus. Imperial War Museum, Duxford, Cambridgeshire. www.showbus.com n September 20-27 IAA Commercial Vehicles. Hannover. +(00)49 30897842. www.iaa.de n October 14 Midland Red Centenary of the Reintroduction of Motorbuses. The Transport Museum, Wythall, near Birmingham. www.wythall.org.uk n October 18 CILT Annual Awards for Excellence Dinner. London. 01536 740104. www.ciltuk.org.uk n October 21 The Very Best of London Buses. Brooklands, Surrey. Featuring 50 years of Routemaster buses. London Bus Museum. www.londonbusmuseum.com n November 6-8 Euro Bus Expo. NEC, Birmingham. 01926 834790. www.eurobusxpo.com n November 20 UK Bus Awards London Hilton Park Lane. www.ukbusawards.org.uk
2013 n Jan 1 New Year’s Holiday Open Day. Oxford Bus Museum. www.oxfordbusmuseum.org.uk
Do you have an event to promote? Send details to gareth.evans@rouncymedia.co.uk www.coachandbusweek.com
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4,800
news › BUSINESS
The number of buses built by Youngman last year
briefly The Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee voted to maintain the official Bank Rate paid on commercial bank reserves at 0.5% and also to maintain the stock of asset purchases financed by the issuance of central bank reserves at £325bn. The previous change in Bank Rate was a reduction of 0.5 percentage points to 0.5% in March 2009. A programme of asset purchases financed by the issuance of central bank reserves was initiated on the same date. The previous change in the size of the programme was an increase of £50bn to a total of £325bn on February 9, 2012. The Bank will continue to offer to purchase high-quality private sector assets on behalf of the Treasury, financed by the issue of Treasury bills. According to a recent survey the gap between men and women’s pensions has narrowed in the past few years. The gap is closing because male incomes are falling, not because women’s are rising. The Prudential survey says women will have an average of £12,250 to live on compared to men’s £18,000, a gap of £5,750, compared with £7,400 last year. Pension incomes have fallen in recent years due to low interest rates, low stock market returns and reduced income from annuities. The average pension across both genders has fallen to £15,500 now, compared with £16,600 in 2011. UK new car sales rose to 162,288 last month, a 7.9% rise compared with May 2011, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). It was the largest % increase in registrations for 23 months, due in part to a 14.3% increase in private sales. The sharp rise in May brings the total for 2012 up to 868,166 - a 2.6% rise over the same period last year. The best-selling car in May was the Vauxhall Corsa but the Ford Fiesta remains the UK’s most popular new car in 2012. Paul Everitt, SMMT CEO, said: “The climb in new car registrations during the first five months of the year suggests confidence is returning, despite financial uncertainty in the eurozone.” www.coachandbusweek.com
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Transport infrastructure investment constant across OECD countries Percentage of GDP Investment in transport varies between regions Data published by the International Transport Forum shows gross investment in inland transport infrastructure as a percentage of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) has remained fairly constant at around 0.8% for the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) as a whole since 1995. The International Transport Forum has collected data on investment and maintenance expenditure on transport infrastructure since the late 1970s. In Western Europe, the investment share of GDP has declined steadily from 1.5% in 1975 to 1.2 % in 1980 and further to 1.0% in 1982 after which it levelled off. The latest figures show the GDP share of investment in inland transport infrastructure has
Viseon sells controlling share to Youngman
Viseon Bus GmbH and the China Youngman Automobile Group have signed an investment agreement, which stipulates Youngman is to become majority shareholder of the German bus manufacturer. Youngman plans a long-term participation in Viseon and aims to support its growth through an increase of capital allowing Viseon to invest in expanding its market presence. The existing partners Joachim Reinmuth and Erno Bartha remain shareholders. Last year Youngman built over 4,800 buses. It has co-operated with Neoplan and MAN since 1994 and holds several licences for the production of Neoplan bus and coach models for the Asian market. Recently Viseon showed
remained between 0.8% and 1.0% on average since the 1990s in Western European countries. Only Greece, Spain and Portugal show significantly higher than average shares over the period 1995-2010 (1.6% –2.0%). Data for North America also show a constant GDP share (0.6%) until very recently. The latest estimates indicate a slight growth in investment as a share of GDP, reaching 0.7% in 2009 and 2010. Trends for developing and transition economies differ markedly from those described above. The share of investment in inland transport infrastructure in Central and Eastern European countries (CEECs), which until 2002 had remained at around 1.0% of GDP, has grown sharply, reaching 2.0% in 2009 – the highest figure ever reported by these countries. Data for 2010 suggest a drop to 1.7%, affected by the economic crisis.
Data for India suggest a similar growth trend in the GDP share of investments since 2004. In the Russian Federation the investment share of GDP has been more volatile. Rising levels of investment in developing economies reflect efforts to meet rising needs for road network capital, reinforced by the demands of growing economies. The volume of investment (expenditure in real terms) in the OECD total (excluding Japan) has grown 30% in the last 15 years. If data on Japan is included, the volume has remained fairly stable around the 1995 level. In Western European countries, the volume of investment started growing in 2002, and was 28% above the 1995 level in 2006. The level of investment then declined again. The latest data for 2010 show volume 12% higher than the 1995 level. The volume of inland infrastructure investment in North America grew
Youngman plans to support Viseon’s growth through an injection of capital increases of up to 50% through the development of a national and international distribution network combined with product and innovation initiatives, with seven all-new coaches, low floor double-deckers, trolley buses and numerous improvements to Neoplan airport apron buses. Pang Qingnian, founder and president of Youngman Group,
said: “This investment in Viseon consolidates our premium position among Chinese bus manufacturers.” Joachim Reinmuth, managing partner of Viseon Bus GmbH, said: “The long-term involvement of a financially powerful investor like Youngman will allow us to continue the existing innovation and growth and strengthen our market position in all our product areas.”
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2.3bn £5,750 Bus journeys made on Transport for London’s network in 2011
The current difference between men and women’s pensions
by around 30% from 1995 to 2002. The ITF estimate suggests a slow decline in investment volume that continued all the way to 2008. Recent data indicate again a growth in the volume of investment in North America, returning to the 2001 level in real terms in 2010. The volume of infrastructure investment has accelerated strongly in developing and transition economies, notably in Central and Eastern European countries since 2003. This growth has turned negative after reaching a record level in 2009. Investment in inland transport infrastructure declined 11% in real terms from 2009 to 2010. The share of rail investment has increased from 15% to 23% for the OECD total from 1995 to 2010. This trend is mainly determined by the development in Japan and Europe. Whereas Western European countries have increasingly directed their investment toward rail, Central and Eastern European countries are investing more heavily in roads. The share of roads in inland transport infrastructure investment increased from 65% in 1995 to 82% in 2010 in this region. The last five years, however, suggest a stabilisation of the trend and the modal split of investment has remained at 2005 level in 2010.
TfL releases annual report
Transport for London (TfL) has published its draft Annual Report and Statement of Accounts for the year ended March 31 2012. The draft report will be considered by TfL’s Audit and Assurance
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Committee on June 15, before being presented to the TfL Board later this month. The report sets out the major upgrades and improvements delivered across London’s transport network in 2011/12, and touts record ridership and improved reliability across the TfL network, with 1.17bn passengers on the Tube for the first time, 2.3 bn bus journeys, 102.6m London Overground journeys, 86m on
The first ‘super green’ New Bus for London entered service on the Arrivaoperated route 38 and was one of many upgrades implemented by TfL
Go-Ahead Group announces charity partnerships Go-Ahead Group is to partner with charities Transaid and Railway Children for the next three years. The operator will work with Railway Children which fights for vulnerable children who live alone and at risk on the streets, and Transaid the international development charity which works to reduce poverty and improve livelihoods across the developing world by creating better transport and hopes to raise over £100,000 to support the work of both organisations. David Brown, Group Chief Executive for Go-Ahead said: “We’ve supported both charities in the past, but these new longer-term partnerships mean we can provide a deeper level of support to the work of Transaid and Railway Children. We are also encouraging our 22,000 staff to raise funds and increase awareness of the charities’
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work at a local level, by supporting Transaid Week for example or Railway Children’s annual Make a Difference Day.” Gary Forster, Transaid Chief Executive added: “In the UK we often take the importance of safe,
reliable transport for granted, but in Africa, it can mean a matter of life or death. We look forward to our future collaborations.” Railway Children CEO Terina Keene said: “Such significant corporate partnerships are so important to us and we’re looking forward to working together to make a lasting difference in the lives of children who live alone at risk on the streets.”
Go-Ahead supports Transaid’s three key areas of work – professional driver training and road safety, access to health, and improving livelihoods
DLR and 28.5m London Tramlink journeys. High levels of customer satisfaction were also achieved, with all key services seeing customer satisfaction scores maintained or improved. The Mayor and TfL have implemented a £7.6bn savings and efficiencies programme while protecting essential upgrade and frontline services. TfL has net savings of £1,809m since the efficiencies programme began, currently £433m ahead of target. This represents more than 24% of the total savings and efficiencies projected for 2017/18. The extensive programme of works continued in readiness for a certain sporting event, in attempt to keep London moving this summer. In addition, TfL undertook upgrades, extensions and improvements across London’s transport network. The sets out senior remuneration across the TfL group of companies. In recognition of the continuing difficult economic climate and financial constraints on TfL, in 2011/ 12 the base pay of the Commissioner and Chief Officers was frozen for a third consecutive year. Full details of the report can be found at www.tfl. gov.uk
Continental Automotive acquisition Continental Automotive Trading UK Ltd has bought the pedal related assets of Avid Technology Ltd. Paul Jennings, MD of Continental Automotive Trading, said: “We are delighted to have bought Avid’s pedal business. It will strengthen our expertise in the supply of electronic throttle pedals. In these challenging times we are pleased to be continuing our investment in the UK manufacturing sector and this will enhance our support to UK customers and those in mainland Europe and throughout the world.” Ryan Maughan, Managing Director of Avid Technology said: “Continental has been a long term partner for us and selling the business to them enables us to concentrate our activities on micro hybrid systems and thermal management components.”
www.coachandbusweek.com
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insight › Bus competition PART TWO
Competition Commission in the spotlight The Transport Committee continues its review of the CC’s report entitled ‘Competition in the local bus market’, with Norman Baker also under scrutiny. Andrew Cream reports
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s reported in last week’s issue of Coach & Bus Week, the House of Commons Transport Committee met with TfL’s Commissioner of Transport Peter Hendy to hear his views on competition. In the same session, the Competition Commission’s Jeremy Peat (Chairman), Douglas Cooper (Inquiry Director) and Adam Land (Director of Remedies) helped explain the evidence in their report to the panel, while Norman Baker was asked his opinion on the report and what the DfT would take from the findings.
JEREMY PEAT, DOUGLAS COOPER, ADAM LAND Jeremy Peat, Douglas Cooper and Adam Land from the Competition Commission (CC) were first asked whether promoting competition as well as joint working between operators and transport authorities was possible. Peat answered: “We don’t believe they are incompatible. We have suggested the DfT and the OFT should convene regular forums at which bus operators get together with local transport authorities (LTAs), passenger transport www.coachandbusweek.com
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executives (PTEs) and the DfT to discuss how partnerships are working in different parts of GB and how lessons can be learnt of good practice, plus how one can avoid going too far along the route of working together where you can get to unsatisfactory endings. “We certainly believe partnerships have been very successful and there are lessons which can be learnt. We would encourage more examination of where their actions could be added to.” The committee then moved onto the mention of “sustained head-to-head competition” in the CC’s report, and the rarity of it on
Jeremy Peat, Chairman of the Competition Commission
the streets. Peat said: “We’ve got a situation where in urban areas around 79% of services are provided by the major operator in that area, so there’s quite substantial aggregation of the service. We do have examples of sustained head-to-head competition in both urban and rural areas but we believe there are barriers to entry. There are inhibitions on entry and competition which we believe that if these are reduced or removed there can be more scope for both actual competition and the threat of competition, which will encourage
operators to behave more in the interest of passengers which is what the enquiry should be all about.” The CC was then asked if it is realistic to have sustained head-tohead competition at a route level on a very wide basis. “We’ve seen examples where it does happen,” replied Peat. “Oxford is one area; Sheffield and Nottingham are others. There are examples where there are other types of competition, maybe competition between buses coming into the area and buses which operate within the area. There
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The Competition Commission believes the market needs to be opened up, with barriers to entry removed in order to increase competition
may be competition by the type of product offered, a different quality of product offered by one provider compared to another. We believe there could and should be more and we believe also the threat and scope of potential competition will also bring benefits.” When asked if supporting competition at the same time as supporting partnerships was feasible, Peat replied: “There are examples where the partnerships involve two or more operators who work together with the authorities to make sure bus use generally is encouraged, there are
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higher parking fees and there is more access for buses so one has general encouragement to the bus product, and at the same time there is competition between operators on particular routes. That does and can happen.” The trio was then asked how they thought the bus service in London compared to that of the rest of the country. With the general consensus being that London’s franchised services are of a good quality, the panel wanted to know why the CC reached its conclusion. Peat said: “We do believe it is feasible to enhance the extent
“If competition increases it does lead to more frequent services, better quality services and a tendency for lower pricing for passengers.” Jeremy Peat Chairman, Competition Commission
of competition across GB in bus services and the measures we have proposed as remedies will work to that end and will lead to further competition which will be for the benefit of passengers. We looked at the option of franchising as an alternative for other parts of GB and we noted the costs in London. We also noted London went straight from a publically-owned bus service to a franchised service which is somewhat easier than going from a deregulated privately owned service to a franchised service. “We generally believe in terms of practicality and
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insight › bus competition PART TWO proportionality the measures we have proposed are more appropriate and more likely to bring benefits for passengers.” He added: “We certainly believe more partnership working in certain instances can be beneficial as part of this process. That is one of the areas where we have encouraged this coming together of operators with LTAs, agreed with the DfT, working together to see how they can learn from experience and how partnerships can be increased in number and made of more value to passengers. That, we believe, can work alongside the other remedies we propose for encouraging more competition. “If competition increases it does lead to more frequent services, better quality services and a tendency for lower pricing for passengers.” “We have recommended there should be a code of conduct prepared and monitored by the traffic commissioners (TCs) which prevents anti-competitive actions and discourages operators from inhibiting proper and fair competition from large or small operators within the territories where they operate,” Peat added. “We discovered there were impediments to entry and proper competition which inhibited the development of competition in a range of areas.”
Competition in practice
The committee then asked if there were specific examples of competition working well. Peat said: “We saw in Norfolk a new entrant coming in, competing very strongly with the incumbent and the service improving substantially. We saw in north Devon and in Cornwall examples of good strong competition to the benefit of passengers. Those are examples of good competitive performance we would like to see replicated elsewhere.” When asked why this kind of competition wasn’t being replicated across the country, Peat said: “We think it’s not happening because there are barriers to entry and barriers to proper competition which is why our remedies focus on opening up the market to more entrants and to more potential competitors.” Cooper added: “In the West Midlands there were issues of a large operator who, through their network tickets, was able to make www.coachandbusweek.com
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entry for any rival much more difficult. There are other examples where lessees-to-be or operators were sticking to their particular areas and patches without a willingness to encroach on other areas, presumably because of the fear of retaliation.” “Following our recommendations we are aware there are significant changes taking place in the way ticketing is going to operate in the West Midlands,” said Peat. “This will lead to more multi-operator tickets which are actually zonal rather than across the whole area where the pricing is determined in a way which is more appropriate rather than any one operator having dominance. There are significant changes which will be to the benefit of the passengers.” On how easy it will be to widen best practice, Peat said: “It’s not going to be easy and I accept this is a very complicated area. There will be a role for each local authority to look at the interest within its area and it can look from a slightly wider perspective than we can. There will be a need for TCs taking a role and looking at the way operators undertake their activities. There will be a need to look at how partnerships can be developed. That again will need the local authorities to work with DfT. “We need the OFT to take a proactive view to policy, so small mergers which can have a major impact in particular areas are looked at rather than just being nodded through which leads to the large operators getting more and more dominant in some areas. “There’s no magical solution to this, there’s no one remedy that’s going to change the bus market across the whole of GB but we believe the remedies we have proposed, together with local knowledge, can lead to a lot of the positive lessons which have been passed around other parts of GB.”
Recommendations
The committee was concerned about “where there is competition and multi-operator tickets outwith a partnership arrangement, how you can have fair play,” as “there is evidence some dominant bus companies will make the tickets unviable or unattractive.” Peat replied: “We’ve suggested what is effectively a three-stage process for multi-operator tickets. We see no reason why the parties can’t work together in the best
Baker agrees, where competition exists, there are examples of fares being significantly lower than a comparable route with no competition
“Essentially, I want to make sure bus services are as attractive as possible to people, that they represent a mode of transport of choice rather than by default in particular areas.” Norman Baker MP Transport Minister
interest of the passengers and improve along the lines of the approach to multi-operator ticketing we’ve set out in our report, so the governance arrangements are sorted out and you don’t have one party dominant and fixing the prices to suit them. “You have a bus-only ticket in the zones where people travel rather than some area which suits particular operators rather than others. There are various changes we have proposed and we believe a lot can be done. “A lot is happening – Strathclyde have already moved to having zonal bus tickets which they didn’t have before. The DfT is working on guidance on multi-operator ticketing which it hopes to get out this year, which will again provide further information and advice to local authorities and others. Then we hope there will be a follow up with legislation during the course of 2013 which will provide an enforceable context which at the moment doesn’t exist. We do believe there can be and will be significant progress.” “We have recommended the
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tendering procedures could be improved,” said Peat. “It has been agreed by DfT, and I believe by the Scottish and Welsh Governments, that they will look again along the lines we have proposed at improving the tender process so we get more people responding to tenders and we get better information to people who want to come in. You should get a better delivery of services for the same amount of money. Then it is up to the governments to determine how much funding is available.” Peat summed up: “Our analysis shows if you increase competition, if you add one more operator on a service, you get a significant increase in the frequency of service. That’s the main impact of increasing competition. “Frequency includes not just number per hour, but what time they start and end, and whether they operate on a Sunday. “We got very clear views from passengers we spoke to that what mattered to them was frequency, reliability and quality of service. That’s what they were really interested in. “There is no one solution to this. One is not going to get into the
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position where you have a different regulator for each of the 239 urban areas we identified who works to impart different remedies on each of those areas that are appropriate for those areas.”
NORMAN BAKER Last up was Transport Minister Norman Baker, who was initially asked how satisfied he was with services outside London. “I’m never fully satisfied,” he said. “Which is why we attempt to change the arrangements for BSOG, for example. It’s why we’ve been looking at incentives through the Better Bus Area, through the Green Bus Fund and so on. Essentially, I want to make sure bus services are as attractive as possible to people, that they represent a mode of transport of choice rather than by default in particular areas. I think we’re making progress in that respect but there’s more to do.” The panel asked which of the CC’s recommendations will be taken forward. Baker replied: “By and large we’ll take forward nearly all their recommendations. I’m particularly interested in the ones which relate to multi-operator ticketing which I think has proven
“There are places where you might argue lack of direct competition has caused detriment to the passenger and to the public purse.” Norman Baker MP Transport Minister to be successful in Oxford. I think they have the potential to improve the offer for the passenger. “I tend to agree with them, in some areas at least, competition in the market is the appropriate method, provided it can be handled in the way which is sensible and doesn’t end up with the bus wars we had in the late 1980s. Equally I accept there are many who will believe that competition for the market, i.e. Quality Contracts and other such mechanisms, is another appropriate way. I don’t think it’s for us in DfT to decide what’s best in each particular area.” When asked whether competition is beneficial or disadvantageous, Baker said:
“It depends on the area and circumstances. There are places where you might argue lack of direct competition has caused detriment to the passenger and to the public purse. “There are certain routes where competition wouldn’t be viable because, put simply, the routes couldn’t sustain two operators going head-to-head and therefore a different solution may be necessary. That’s why I think there’s no blueprint the DfT could produce which could be applied across England.” Baker added each recommendation from the CC which will be implemented by DfT will be taken forward as soon as it practically can. He then addressed the issue of bus companies being against Quality Contracts: “I would expect any bus company to adhere to the law, as parliament has passed it. Clearly some bus companies will be unhappy if a Quality Contract route is chosen and that will affect their relationship on a day-to-day basis with the local authority, which is a matter the authority will have to factor in. However, I would expect bus companies to respect the law and certainly if the bus company were to adopt a scorched earth policy or anything similar to that, I would take a very dim view and I think it might cause reputational harm to that particular company.” On the issue of competition with other modes of transport, Baker said: “In terms of bus vs. car, although I don’t necessarily see it in that way, local authorities have to judge whether they want to, for example, provide priority bus lanes for PSVs or whether they don’t want to do that. I would argue it’s not actually bus vs. car because if you get the bus working well it takes a number of cars off the road and it eases congestion as well.” Baker then summed up his views on the CC’s findings: “The CC’s recommendations are designed to increase competition with the expectation that, if competition is fairly provided and not inhibited by unwelcome and unsatisfactory practices, then that will in itself bring the price of bus journeys down. “There are clear examples of, where competition exists, the fares are significantly lower than a route of comparable length operated by the same company where no competition exists.”
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vehicle fire safety
Improving the fire safety of buses and coaches Fredrik Rosen examines the research, development and tests carried out in Sweden on buses and coaches in a bid to improve vehicle fire safety across the industry
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bout 1% of all buses and coaches suffer some form of fire incident each year. And some of these fires have serious consequences. A recent example is the tragic bus fire near Hannover, Germany in November 2008 which killed 20 people, making it the worst PCV accident in Germany in 16 years. Another example is the bus fire near Wilmer, Texas, on September 23, 2005, in which 23 nursing home passengers were killed. The vehicle was transporting residents evacuated from the path of Hurricane Rita. In Sweden alone, an average of three fires in buses and coaches are reported each week. Most of these fires occur in the vehicle’s engine compartment located at the rear of the bus or coach, making it difficult for the driver to discover the fire. Experience from Sweden - where the installation of detection and fire suppressions systems is actively encouraged by the insurance industry - shows how the installation of an active fire protection system is an important safety measure. Fires may occur for several reasons. Engine parts such as the manifold and turbocharger may reach temperatures high enough to cause leaking fuel or oil to ignite. Fires may also occur because of short circuits in electrical wiring and the overheating of engine www.coachandbusweek.com
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A Nordic research project
Fredrik Rosen – SP Technical Research components or the braking system. The conditions in the engine compartment are challenging for any extinguishing system, e.g. ventilation fans in the engine compartment often produce high levels of airflow and many compartments have large openings which can lead to an efficient oxygen supply for a fire and the suppression agent may be rapidly removed with the air flow. Furthermore, bus engine compartments are often geometrically complex and/or very compact, making it difficult to ensure extinguishing agents actually reach the fire source. Finally, fuel and lubricants are not the only flammable materials present. Fires may also reach solids like plastics, rubber and insulation materials which can be more difficult to extinguish than liquid fuels.
be approved. The fire safety requirements for other means of mass transportation like trains, passenger ships and airplanes are considerably more stringent. Following completion of the Bus Fire Safety research project, the SP Technical Research Institute of Sweden has been engaged in international bus fire safety education. Swedish technical experts presented proposals for better test procedures for materials at the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (ECE) Working Group on General Safety Provisions (GRSG). The introduction of relevant levels of safety into regulations is ongoing.
US research, legislation and insurance statistics In response to the Wilmer bus fire in 2005, the Volpe National Transportation Systems Center performed a study for the
Due to the large potential risk for catastrophic fires resulting in many casualties, the Norwegian and Swedish road administrations initiated a bus research project in 2005, “Bus Fire Safety,” in conjunction with SP Technical Research Institute of Sweden. The overall objective of the project was to investigate the fire safety of buses and to produce recommendations for improvements. The project was divided into the following subprojects, each of which resulted in a separate report: n Statistics of bus fires in Norway and Sweden based on bus fires between 1996 and 2004; n Fire tests of interior materials used in buses; n Fire risks in buses; n Test method for fire walls; n Test method for fire-suppression systems in engine compartments; n Fire simulations; and n Full scale trials The reports are published in English and can be downloaded from: http://tinyurl.com/c6epa74 The full-scale tests revealed how once flames reach the passenger space, flashover will occur within a short time. Current requirements for interior materials (UNECE regulation 118) only require them to pass a simple horizontal spread of flame test (FMVSS 302). But this is clearly insufficient, as materials with poor fire performance can
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Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), the objective of which was to gather and analyse information regarding the causes, frequency and severity of coach fires caused by mechanical or electrical failure. As a result, the US Department of Transportation issued a Motorcoach Safety Action plan. In this plan, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) identified the need to upgrade coach fire safety requirements and to evaluate the need for a Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard which would require installation of fire detection and suppression systems on coaches. In 2008, NHTSA initiated a twoyear fire safety research program with the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). The objective is to better understand wheel well fires and their
propagation into the passenger compartment, the vulnerability of the passenger compartment to such fires and countermeasures and detection systems. Although there is no national requirement or standard for Automatic Fire Suppression Systems (AFSS) on buses, there are individual requirements at the state level. In addition, some Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and operators have voluntarily chosen to install automatic fire suppression systems. The commercial coach market began making automatic fire suppression systems standard on vehicles equipped with wheelchair lifts, and optional on some buses more than five years ago. The use of AFSS has grown steadily. Several states, including Florida, Georgia, Pennsylvania and New York have implemented requirements for fire protection
“Swedish insurance industry statistics indicate that the number of total losses due to bus fires can be reduced dramatically by the introduction of requirements for fire suppression systems in engine compartments.”
Below: Bus fires are a common issue worldwide and pose a particular threat due to terrorism
systems on wheelchair lift school buses and community transport buses largely because of the additional time it takes to evacuate disabled passengers. City transport buses have been using AFSS for more than 15 years. Early adoption was driven by concerns over risks associated with alternate fuels such as methanol. Today, the majority of transport operators are specifying AFSS on their buses. The American Public Transportation Association formed a Bus Safety Working Group which consists of operators, OEM’s and AFSS manufacturers. The group has developed and published four standards and recommended practices related to bus fire safety. US federal regulations though only require that a bus carry a small fire extinguisher, even though there is little possibility that a fire extinguisher will be useful in extinguishing any bus fire. At Lancer Insurance Company, the largest insurers of buses in the US, nearly two dozen bus fires are reported each year. The majority of these fires are electrical, turbo or brake related, and they generally engulf the engine compartment. Without a fire suppression system, these fires often result in serious physical damage to the bus. The average cost of these fire claims is $80,000 and takes into account the variety of ages and value of the buses involved in these fires. Clearly, fire suppression systems are more effective in managing bus fires. They also give passengers precious time to evacuate. Bus fires are a serious issue in the US and will continue to be a potentially fatal hazard until there are efficient tools to fight the fire, requirements for better engine maintenance and adoption of widely recommended safety measures.
Improvements of bus fire safety in Sweden
Swedish insurance industry statistics indicate that the number of total losses due to bus fires can be reduced dramatically by the introduction of requirements for fire suppression systems in engine compartments. Prior to 2004, there were six to seven complete burnouts of buses annually in Sweden due to fires which started in the engine compartment. In 2004, Swedish insurance companies took the concerted action to require all (insured) buses be equipped with a
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vehicle fire safety
fire suppression system in the engine compartment. Since then, no insured bus has been completely consumed by such fires. Still, at least 40% of buses in Sweden are not equipped with fire suppression systems because they either aren’t insured or are self-insured. The reason for the significant decrease in devastating burnouts seems much more complex than the simple introduction of fire suppression system requirements. In 2001, the Swedish Motor Vehicle Inspection agency introduced compulsory fire safety inspections of buses – an action which almost certainly led to improved overall bus maintenance and a reduced number of bus fires.
International standard for fire suppression systems – a new approach
Presently, there is no international standard for evaluating fire extinguishing systems in bus engine compartments. As a result, the SP Technical Research Institute of Sweden is preparing an international testing standard for use when specifying requirements for the efficacy and function of bus fire suppression systems. This work is being carried out on behalf of the National Road Authority in Sweden. The objectives of this project are: n Creation of a safer environment for passengers and bus drivers, in particular with respect to safe escape for vulnerable passengers i.e. those with disabilities, the elderly and children; n Reducing the loss of property; and n Designing a standard which will evaluate the firefighting performance of different suppression systems in a well-defined, objective and comparable way. The project testing focuses on fire extinguishing capability (i.e. not detection) on diesel-fueled buses (89% of Swedish buses are diesel-powered) and only engine compartment ignition (roughly 70% of all fires start in the engine compartment). In addition, only rear-mounted engine compartments will be covered in the testing. In the future, buses run on alternative fuels will be considered. The draft testing methodology developed thus far simulates warm and hot surfaces, ventilation and a complex geometry and a range of fire sources. The extinguishing systems tested are installed in www.coachandbusweek.com
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while others may have difficulty with suppression of large and/or small hidden fires. Most systems work well in confined spaces where the concentration of the extinguishing agent remains high for a long period of time, but have difficulty maintaining performance under the high airflow conditions often present in bus engine compartments.
What now?
An engine compartment mock-up has been built at SP Technical Research Institute of Sweden for testing of fire suppression systems. The aim is to design an enclosure with “typical” bus engine compartment characteristics (enclosure size, hot surfaces, obstructions, ventilation and openings) rather than to create a replica of a specific engine type the test chamber, after which the fire sources are ignited, individually or in concert. Several different scenarios are set up and studied with various fire sources, airflows, aperture sizes and hotsurface temperatures, but with a fixed position of the system’s extinguisher nozzles for all test scenarios. The test results indicate the strengths and weaknesses of the system, as well as whether or not the minimum standard requirements have been met.
Design issues and challenges
When designing a fire suppression system for buses and coaches, there are some critical aspects which need to be considered. Presently, there is no existing international standard and as a consequence, suppression manufacturers must verify and authenticate their systems using systems defined by relevant local or national transport authorities and insurance companies. This can be extremely difficult and do not typically allow for comparison of different suppression systems. Unresolved issues include whether the engine should be shut down during a test, whether the fuel system and fan should be shut off and whether the system activation should be delayed to give the vehicle operator the opportunity to move to the side of the road or out of a tunnel if a fire is detected while the bus is rolling. Currently, “performance requirements” are prescribed by the local transport authorities
“When designing a fire suppression system for buses and coaches, there are some critical aspects that need to be considered.” in their contract with transport providers. Clearly, a standardised approach with broad acceptance would simplify the inherent problems. Ideally, this would be in the form of a UN ECE regulation, or, alternatively, an international standard with broad market acceptance which could provide a basis for a level playing field for manufacturers. The robustness of the fire suppression system and its components is also critical. The discharge system should be designed so it does not fail before it is activated and discharged - the system must remain operational even after being exposed to heat, cold, vibrations, temperature changes, corrosion, stress, dirt soot and road dust. There are many types of fire suppression systems on the market, all have different extinguishing agents like water mist, dry agent, aerosols, gas, etc. They behave differently in terms of their firefighting performance, and all have their pros and cons with regard to their effectiveness. Certain systems have challenges concerning re-ignition protection
During 2010, SP Technical Research Institute of Sweden carried out a pilot study in relation to the development of a test method for fire suppression systems in engine compartments in buses and coaches. All results from the study and a first draft of a test protocol were presented in SP Report 2011:22. This report signified the start of Phase 2 of the project in which a more in-depth analysis of the proposed methodology has been conducted. An engine compartment mock-up was built in which the impact of various parameters could be examined. The aim was to design an enclosure with “typical” bus engine compartment characteristics (enclosure size, hot surfaces, obstructions, ventilation and openings) rather than create a replica of a specific engine type. In the generic enclosure petrol-based fires are initiated to test the ability of an extinguishment system. Phase 3 started in early June and involves running tests with different fire suppression systems, dry systems, water mist, aerosols, etc. It coincides with the creation of a “Reference Group” of representatives of suppression manufacturers, insurance companies, bus associations, transit authorities, bus manufacturers, etc. whose objective is to present a draft proposal of a standard at the spring meeting of the GRSG group at UN ECE in 2012. This would be followed by a revised and updated international UN ECE Regulation No 107. The American Public Transportation Association, American Bus Association, United Motorcoach Association, Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance and Lancer Insurance are among the US industry and trade groups who are represented. All results will be presented next year at the Fires in Vehicles conference in Chicago, September 27 – 28, 2012.
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ESSENTIAL GUIDE
› GARAGE EQUIPMENT
Mobile column lift sets offer maximum flexibility in PSV workshops
Maintaining your edge Many recent legal developments have shown the importance of keeping a fleet maintained to the correct standard. This week’s Essential Guide looks at a number of garage equipment suppliers who can help kit out a workshop and keep coaches and buses in top shape
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t’s important in this economic climate to make sure any problems with a vehicle are spotted before they become a major expense and anything effecting fuel efficiency or increasing wear and tear is effectively repaired. Getting the best equipment allows operators to do this as quickly and effectively as possible, keeping the vehicles on the road - where they need to be.
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EP MORRIS ENGINEERING
The EP Morris Engineering System has modules to deal with routine maintenance, repairs, purchasing and stores, accidents, warranty claims, VOSA regimes etc. However it has a number of features which are specific to the operation of buses and coaches which may not be immediately apparent. All garages have some specialist equipment such as vehicle lifts
or smoke test equipment which require annual inspection and/or certification. The system provides a register with values and dates so reminders can be issued and safety records kept up to date, along with a document handling facility which ensures any manuals and certificates can be scanned and retrieved as necessary. EP Morris has an MOT booking system for internal and third party VOSA appointments. This links
through to the booking office, advises the MOT lane managers and generates the appropriate invoices. The standard wall chart representation of inspections and services has been adapted to show the incidence of annual inspections together with the status of the booking. This attention to detail has also been applied to the maintenance issues. Operators do need to seek out economies wherever possible. One area is the maintenance of low mileage vehicles, such as school transport which may only undertake a few thousand miles each year. Some of the filters may not really need to be changed at every service. A regime of changing every ‘n’ months or ‘y’ thousand miles can be created. These tasks will then be included on the job cards at the appropriate time. There is a choice to consider – inspections and services planned for the same cycle to fit in with the VOSA commitment, or inspections on that plan with service work planned separately by time or mileage – the system can be set up to fit in with the operator’s working practices. In-so-far as financials are concerned, the system is again comprehensive and flexible. EP Morris has encountered situations where clients have existing stores and inventory controls such as Sage and can provide interfaces to utilise those stores’ issues into the Engineering System without having to repeat the basic process. One of the main benefits is the establishment of warranty claim information - which is fully catered for with handed vehicle locations to maximise the recovery. One EP Morris client had existing parts tracking through SAP but no information on the relative costs of different vehicle types arising from engineering labour costs. EP Morris has developed a full job costing model utilising defect cards to supplement the inspection and servicing regimes in order to ensure all jobs are accounted for. Hours are now managed and recorded and the firm has extracted labour costs from the payroll to complete the exercise. The client will have a profile of the relative costs of each vehicle type to inform them for fleet replacement purposes and to introduce standard times into the management of tasks in the workshop. The Engineering System integrates with the existing
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Depot Performance System. There are economies arising from the integration of the databases which are all now SQL. EP Morris only need to maintain one vehicle register for Traffic, Licensing, fuel and mileage, and similarly driver’s and engineer’s disciplinary records such as CPC, technical awards, shorts and overs, driving assessments are all housed within the one regime. The Operational Performance Module provides a single, integrated system for use by depot and company management. The Module provides a medium for management processes to be applied at a consistent standard throughout multi-site businesses and assist the smaller ones with the organisation of housekeeping tasks. The integration of the EPM systems has enabled EP Morris to link essential information. There is a routine to ensure defect cards are completed and acted on where necessary; the requirements of VOSA compliance are catered for. The Traffic system has been developed for real time operation – Bus Incident Reporting ensures information desks are able to answer queries from (intending) passengers and engineers are alerted to problems developing with vehicles during the day which may require some workshop intervention when the vehicle returns to base. All the EPM Modules are integrated in an SQL database / C# environment and can be purchased as a complete system or individual modules where specific requirements arise. EP Morris is able to host these systems at Bromsgrove with secure web access which avoids the requirement to purchase expensive hardware and perhaps more significantly the employment of someone with experience in networks and database administration. EP Morris is able to supply these systems on a rental basis as well as outright Licence. Operators can get in touch to arrange a demonstration. T: 01527 556 940 E: epm@epmorris.co.uk W: www.epmorris.co.uk
Commercial Garage Equipment Commercial Garage Equipment (CGE) offers the installation of ATF (Authorised Testing Facilities) lanes www.coachandbusweek.com
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All equipment comes with a year’s guarantee, which Roger feels is essential to give customers peace of mind. The firm began by offering refurbished vehicle lifts, but now as Roger says, things have moved on, with DHL, Flights-Hallmark and Babcock Engineering being among the customer base. Roger concluded: “Things are definitely moving on, but as always we are determined to supply customers with exactly what they are looking for. Our prices and availability are both excellent and we pride ourselves in the level of experience and service we offer.”
JHM Butt supplies Reus pit covers, which can prevent needless accidents at a claimed 20% less than rival firms. With VOSA sites closing and the private sector needing to step up, now is a great time to capitalise. CGE has a dedicated team of project managers to see through the completion of lanes from start to finish, for use in ATFs and general workshops. Plan drawings are provided free of charge and CGE is now offering a full service for constructing pits in workshops nationwide. Either traditional inspection pits or fully compliant ATF pits alongside long versions as seen at ministry test stations, can be supplied. With the latter, CGE looks after the supply and fitting of jacking beams, shakers and emission analysis equipment. “We can even supply the necessary signs if required,” CGE Managing Director Roger Cox revealed. The ATF lanes come complete with radius plates, play detectors and pit jacks and are supplied with a VOSA-approved Bradbury brake tester, all for prices starting from £70,000. Pits are made from high strength prefabricated steel sections and comply with all safety regulations. CGE has been appointed main distributer for Bradbury Commercial Braketesters, who have been in the industry for 111 years. With such quality products, customers need not worry about CGE’s competitive prices resulting in uncompetitive quality. Equipment catering for everything from three to 80 tonnes is on offer, though 20 tonne lifts are most popular. The 20 tonne scissor
lifts are priced at £23,950, while the 26 tonne column lifts sell for £10,950. Many customers prefer to go for scissor lifts, Roger said. “Scissor lifts score on the fact you can use them for steam cleaning vehicles. The electrics can be sited away from the lift itself, which can’t really be done with column lifts. In addition, scissor lifts can be sited outside, so long as the electronic controls are carefully covered.” Column lifts have the advantage of being relatively portable, and can be used around the workshop as required. Both four and six-post platform lifts can be supplied. CGE has teams of engineers at the ready to fit the lifts, if customers require. The same applies to inspection pits, another area in which the firm can offer a complete service, from planning to sweeping up afterwards. Roger said: “I think a lot of operators want someone to come and do the whole job. We have the lowest possible overheads so we can keep prices extremely competitive. As far as putting in pits is concerned, we can save the customer around a third of the prices our competitors charge. Another major part of the business is supplying commercial vehicle brake testers. These can be supplied new, or fully reconditioned, with both options offering new software to the purchaser’s requirements. We realise many customers have to be careful with their costs, and as I’ve said, with our own low overheads we are in a very good position to help.”
T: 07538 218194 E: sales@commercialgarage equipment.co.uk W: www.commercialgarage equipment.co.uk
JHM Butt & Company JHM Butt & Company is an initiative supplier of workshop equipment established in 1971. Butts claims to offer their customers a reliable efficient and economic service on a whole range of workshop products from lifting equipment to small tools. Importing direct from numerous high quality European manufacturers, the company ensures competitive prices on quality products. Installed products are fitted and serviced by Butts’ own factory trained engineers who carry a range of essential spares on their vans at all times to minimise down time when attending a repair. The range: n Lifting Equipment: Butt offers a full range of products including two post, four post, scissor and mobile column lifts to suit all applications from small cars to the largest heavy goods vehicle. n Compressors: A comprehensive range of piston and screw compressors together with a range of treatment products including filters and dryers, pipework installed to GEA standards. n Extraction: Mobile Units, Reels, spring balances, rail systems as well as replacement hoses and funnels. n Lubrication & Oil Storage: Pumps, Reels, Meters, Bunded Oil Tanks, Pipework installed to GEA standards. A full range of mobile dispensers, oil drainers and barrel bunds for dispensing and storing 205 litre drums and IBC. n Wheel Care Products: A full range of tyre changers, wheel
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Commercial Garage Equipment Suppliers of a wide range of commercial vehicle equipment for the smaller, independent garages to the largest commercial vehicle fleet workshops.
Brake Testers
Inspection Pits
Commercial Lifts
Mobile Lifts
Delivery & Installation
Bradbury commercial brake testers approved by Vosa for ATF lanes Steel fabricated commercial workshop pits
Scissor lifts 8 - 40 tonne lifting capacity
3.5 - 80 tonne lifting capacity
Refurbished commercial brake testers
Tel: 07538 218194 www.commercialgarageequipment.co.uk Email: sales@commercialgarageequipment.co.uk Commercial Garage Equipment (Midlands) Ltd, Unit 14A, Goodwood Road, Keytec7 Business Park, Pershore, Worcs WR10 2JL
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balancers and wheel alignment equipment. n Health & Safety and Security Products: With its own printing department Butt offer a full range of signage from standard signs to bespoke designs. A huge range of safety mirrors, key safes, key drop boxes and other products is also offered to keep operators compliant. A new product is the Reus range of pit covers, designed to be easy to deploy and robust in use to ensure complete safety for new and existing pits. The Reus product can be retro fitted to almost any existing pit. n Tools: Butt imports and stocks a wide range of products from hand lamps to high quality battery chargers & booster packs. With over 40 models to choose from the Ceteor range of booster packs offers a product for any application including ones capable of starting a 1500HP 38 Litre diesel engine from a NATO main battle tank – it is sure to have a product suitable for an operator’s application. T: 01302 710868 E: info@buttsequipment.com W: www.jhmbuttco.com
Liftmaster Liftmaster Commercial Equipment, a supplier of VOSA approved Test Lane Equipment to PSV workshops, is renewing its attention to commercial lifting. As an independent company, Liftmaster Commercial has a wide range of products available, using quality manufacturers as well as manufacturing its own LM80 Mobile Column Lifts. The LM80 Mobile Column Lift is an eight ton per column
with brake testers and lifts but also has a small tools department to cover hand tool requirements. T: 01420 549038 E: sales@liftmasteruk.com W: www.liftmasteruk.com
Stertil Koni
Liftmaster’s in-ground OMNI lift allows maximum access to the vehicle mechanical screw lift which is available for hire or sale. Hiring is useful for workshops with short term contracts or those who just want to try the suitability of using mobile columns. Liftmaster also offers the ATT/Nussbaum hydraulic mobile column lift, which is available in 5.5 ton and 7.5 ton per column versions. For Bus and Coach workshops the 5.5 ton per column version is an affordable option for inspecting vehicles. The MCS5500 Wireless Mobile Column is particularly good value and offers the flexibility to be used anywhere on a suitable level surface. The patented SST safety system locks the lifting columns in the event of a
hydraulic failure, but also accurately monitors the height of each column to within less than 1mm. Platform lifts in four post or scissor versions are available in lengths from four to 18m. The Nussbaum OMNI lift probably offers the quickest and easiest way to lift a vehicle. The OMNI Lift is an In-ground hydraulic lift which lifts directly under the axle allowing maximum access to the vehicle. Ideal for lifting Bendy Buses, the lifting cylinders can be moved automatically to the axle positions via a touch screen control panel. Liftmaster Commercial Equipment currently supply some of the UK’s major bus companies
Centrebus has recently switched vehicle lifts to Stertil Koni in four of its depots. With a fleet of 140 buses in service, the company said it needs reliable, professionally maintained lifting equipment. It turned to Stertil Koni both to kit out a new depot and replace outdated screw and nut electro-mechanical lifts with Stertil’s electro-hydraulic models. Glenn Hirst, Area Manager, was tasked with sourcing lifts for the new Centrebus depot in Halifax. He met with the Stertil Koni team, already aware of the company’s reputation and encouraged by positive reports from industry contacts. Having experienced low-cost commercial lifts elsewhere, Glenn knew he needed a supplier with a reliable product that would be delivered on time and supported by a fast-response maintenance team. It was also important to find a solution enabling the Centrebus depots to continue to be fully operational without interruption. Centrebus chose Stertil Koni’s ST1073FCF cabled mobile column lifts featuring a unique sychronisation system to ensure a smooth lifting and lowering cycle, even where a vehicle has an uneven load distribution. The ST1073 hydraulic mobile column lift provides a lifting capacity of 7,250kg per column and the
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total capacity can be increased by adding more columns to the system, up to a maximum of 28. Its lifting height of 1.85 metres is reached in just 70 seconds, making it amongst the fastest mobile lifts in the world. Importantly, Stertil Koni’s lightweight ergonomic design enables the columns to be moved easily by one person. “Stertil Koni’s might not be the cheapest lifting option, but I firmly believe a reliable and professionally maintained product will always prove to be the most cost-effective over time,” says Glenn Hirst. “Stertil Koni’s response times to even minor teething problems have been very quick and they’ve delivered against promise in all areas.” The success of the installations in Halifax led to Centrebus ordering further sets of Stertil Koni mobile column lifts for another three depots in Leeds, Stevenage and Harlow. An additional installation at the company’s Huddersfield site is also planned. “I’d advise anyone investing in
new lifts not to scrimp on their purchase – it’s a false economy and doesn’t pay in the long run,” adds Glenn. T: 01604 662049 E: lifts@stertiluk.com W: www.stertiluk.com
Autocraft Equipment Autocraft Equipment is a long established supplier of air conditioning recovery stations and vehicle diagnostic systems to both main dealers and independent workshops for cars, trucks and coaches. It now sells units under the ‘Autocraft Electronic’ name as these units have been designed specifically for today’s vehicle market. These new units include printers, for recording gas usage, nitrogen injection for leak testing and now a self contained flushing programme. The Autocraft HDM 420 air conditioning service station has been designed for the modern
coach, capable of handling the larger gas capacities – 49kg recovery tank, larger capacity vacuum pump and compressor, longer hose for roof installations, etc. With all this, the system is still able to handle vehicles from a Mini to a BendyBus. The latest Autocraft electronic systems can be supplied suitable for conversion from R134A to R1234yf once the gas is readily available. Vehicle diagnostics have changed enormously over the past few years. The company sells the Texa range of diagnostic systems and Brain Bee scan tools, but is happy to advise on most other systems. The Texa TXT remote diagnostic unit has been sold into some of the UK’s largest fleet operators – both Truck and Coach - as well as many hundreds of independent workshops. T: 01935 829550 E: sales@autocraft equipment.co.uk W: www.autocraftequipment. co.uk
Rotary The Commercial Vehicle show 2012 provided Rotary with a perfect platform to launch its new light capacity Hydro Lift S2 6.2 Tonne capacity mobile column lifts. The 6.2 tonne wireless mobile columns add a further dimension to the comprehensive range of commercial lifting equipment including the 8.2 tonne capacity wireless mobile column lifts, launched last year at the Coach and Bus Live show in October 2011. Mobile column lifts offer maximum flexibility in a workshop environment both for large and small service bays and workshops. Designed and engineered in the USA, the Hydro Lift S2 is assembled in the UK and makes a step change in design and specification from existing column lifts. Rotary claims it is much easier for operators to use and set up with its user friendly controls and is over 30% faster than competitive lifts. With an on board battery charger for the 24V
8.2 & 6.2 tonne capacity wireless mobile lifts from Rotary
For more information please contact: Contact: Ian Gibbs – Sales Manager Tel: 01787 477711 Mobile: 07785 924333 Fax: 01787 477720 Email: igibbs@rotarylift.com www.mobilecolumnlifts.co.uk www.coachandbusweek.com
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DC electric motor, there are no wires to clutter up the service bay floor, enabling full mobility on any concrete surface. With wireless exclusive controls, there is no master or slave column, therefore the lifts can be controlled from any column. Each column has a 6,200kg capacity and with a four, six, or eight column configuration, they can accommodate light duty passenger vehicles right up to large heavy duty PSV & CV’s. T: 01787 477711 E: Igibbspar4@aol.com W: www.blitzrotary.co.uk
Tecalemit Kitting out a workshop can be an expensive undertaking for an operator. The decisions and planning can be daunting but Tecalemit can help with a full assistance service. Salesmen with installation experience ranging from small garages up to multi-commercial
Tecalemit’s headlamp beam alignment checking system vehicle workshops can visit an operator and help with planning, measurements, permissions and drawings. When the time comes for installation, the whole process can be project managed. The garage equipment product range from Tecalemit is extensive to say the least, citing itself as a one stop shop. Within lifting equipment
there is a choice of four post platform lifts, scissor lifts, mobile column lifts and even single post lifts. For commercial installations, the Finkbeiner mobile column lifts from Tecalemit are proving particularly popular. Completely wireless column sets are available with the ability to link up to 10 columns and with capacities from
5.5t per column up to 8.2t per column. Fixed platform lifts are also available for capacities up to 44t with scissors and semi-scissors lifting up to 50t. Pit lanes are a speciality of Tecalemit and everything else for a workshop can also be supplied, from pit jacks and jacking beams up to a full lubrication or fume extraction system. Tecalemit has a strong heritage, trading continuously since 1922. Sales and Marketing Director Philip Cledwyn commented: “We have had hundreds and hundreds of satisfied customers over the years from small one vehicle garages to multi-vehicle military installations. With lifting equipment ranging from a one-tonne single post lift up to commercial mobile column lifts capable of lifting even the heaviest train, we will supply a system for every requirement.” T: 01752 219111 E: sales@tecalemit.co.uk W: www.tecalemit.co.uk
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THE BIG PICTURE
The smart orange livery of this coach brightened up an otherwise damp and gloomy Lynton on Friday (June 8). Operated by Voel Coaches, of Dyserth, Denbighshire, the vehicle was caught on camera by Coach & Bus Week Editor Gareth Evans while his fiancée was browsing in a nearby gift shop. The Volvo 9700 was on tour in the North Devon coastal resort. The smartly-attired driver gave a friendly wave and a smile as he negotiated the narrow street that is Castle Hill, on his way to the coach park a short distance away. Behind the coach is St Mary’s church, which dates from the 13th century although it is understood the only part remaining from this time is the tower, which is pictured here. The green sign which can just be seen on the right is that of Lilly May’s tea room, which comes highly recommended by your Editor, and likewise the Ethel Braithwaite deli next door. Back to the coach itself, it was one of two Prestige Plus models supplied new by Volvo Bus in 2008 to the well-known North Wales coast operator. Established in 1949, Voel Coaches continues to be family-owned and managed.
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Charity › transaid
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Raj Bhutta was one of two driver trainers from National Express who volunteered to spend a fortnight assisting driver training in Tanzania
National Express takes on driver training challenge in Tanzania James Keeler reports on the experiences of two driver trainers as they aim to improve driving skills in Dar es Salaam as part of international charity Transaid. Challenges included roundabouts, other drivers and more www.coachandbusweek.com
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raining drivers to be amongst the best in the business comes naturally to Raj Bhutta and Arthur Baddams – two of National Express’ top training instructors. But when the two PCV specialists joined the company in 1990 and 1988 respectively, they never expected that one day they’d be applying their skills in Dar es Salaam, the largest city in Tanzania. Situated close to the equator on Africa’s east coast, Dar es Salaam is the ninth fastest growing city in the world and is currently home to around 2.8m people. It enjoys tropical climatic conditions, with the hot and humid weather providing an additional challenge for two trainers more accustomed to working in wet and windy Walsall. For Raj and Arthur, the opportunity arose after international development charity Transaid approached National Express (NatEx) with a request for two volunteers to spend a fortnight
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assessing and developing the skills of six trainers at the National Institute of Transport (NIT); an organisation Transaid has been closely involved with since 2010. As a supporting member of Transaid for the last 18 months, this wasn’t the first time NatEx had sent its staff to train drivers in Africa. Twice last year the company supported similar training inputs in Tanzania, and was keen to do so again. Explaining the selection process, Arthur said: “Our manager asked the training team for volunteers and we were both among a handful of people to put our names down. The key criterion was having a manual PCV license; whilst nearly all modern coaches in the UK have automated transmissions, we’d be required to train on ‘stick’ vehicles.” Raj explained: “Our manager was keen to select someone who had been to Africa previously, together with a colleague who would be visiting for the first time. I’d been involved in the first round of training with Transaid in 2011, so they paired me with Arthur for this project. It was great to have a chance to support Transaid again.”
Transaid:
Professional Driving Training Project
Transaid’s support of the NIT in Tanzania is an extension of a similar project run in conjunction with the ITC in Zambia – originally launched by Transaid’s patron, HRH The Princess Royal, in October 2008. The Professional Driving Training Project aims to reduce the number of road crashes, which are the third highest cause of premature death in sub-Saharan Africa after HIV/AIDS and malaria. It is designed to help make commercial drivers better skilled and safer, teaching them a greater understanding of the many risks and creating self-awareness of their impact to other road users. With the support of key industry players, Transaid is helping to bridge the huge gap in professional driver training by building up a pool of core driver trainers to ensure the project’s sustainability. Transaid has also developed a new bus driver training curriculum in conjunction with key stakeholders including government, bus operators and associations and is advocating for changes in transport policy across borders to help save more lives.
Training the trainers
Compared with the earlier rounds of training conducted by National Express at the NIT, this visit was going to prove a different challenge. In addition to upskilling and training driver trainers, Raj and Arthur were each assigned three driver trainers and asked to begin training them to be trainers of driver trainers. The group included four local NIT staff, one from Arusha in the north of Tanzania, and a sixth candidate from the Industrial Training Centre (ITC) in Zambia – where the original Professional Driver Training Project began. Not only would the duo face training in a foreign city, with a vastly different style of driving practiced by many motorists, they would face a language barrier too, with Kiswahili as the main language used. One of the instructors in Arthur’s group didn’t speak English, requiring him to work via a translator. Their brief for the two-week stay included building on the training previously conducted by Transaid professional volunteers, with a focus on helping to develop each instructor’s individual driving ability, instructional techniques and helping them to demonstrate
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NIT’s 15-year-old 25-seater Isuzu midibus is said to be “very basic”
A 60-seat Scania Marcopolo is also used for driver training
Tools for the job: The NIT has a fleet of vehicles which it uses for driver training. For this latest round of training, Transaid utilised a four-year-old 60-seat Scania Marcopolo coach, and a smaller 25-seat Isuzu midibus. “The Isuzu was at least 15 years old and very basic,” said Raj. “It had gears, but it took real skill to find them!” The NIT fleet also includes a second midibus and a Volvo coach, together with a fleet of trucks for commercial vehicle driver training. These include a new Iveco Trakker 6x4 tractor unit, funded by the World Bank, plus an exUK six-year-old Stralis 6x2 tractor unit donated by Iveco at the end of 2011.
to future trainers how to perform essential daily vehicle checks. They were also asked to focus on vehicle reversing techniques. Raj explained: “In a nutshell, it was our job to give the trainers the necessary skills to make them selfsufficient to train future instructors to the standards we were aiming to implement. It was a tough brief, but we were looking forward to the challenge.”
Driving standards
In stark contrast with Western Europe, bus driving in Tanzania is often a job of last resort and drivers can receive little or no formal driver training prior to picking up their first passengers. As a result, driving standards are often extremely poor and drivers have little awareness of the dangers on the road and the risks to themselves and others. The focus of Transaid’s work with the NIT is to reduce the number of road crashes which occur, by creating more skilled and safer drivers. In 2011, buses and commuter buses were involved in 2,656 reported accidents, involving 3,698 different PCVs. These accidents alone resulted in 700 fatalities and a further 4,987 people being injured. Taking into account all modes of road transport, almost 4,000 people are killed in road crashes in Tanzania every year – a frightening statistic which accounts for an average of 10 deaths every single day. Gary Forster, Chief Executive of Transaid, said: “With the help of companies like NatEx, we are working hard to address this challenge and provide a solution. This was the fourth bus driver training input we’ve delivered in Tanzania since the start of the project, following earlier visits by instructors from both National Express and Metroline. The project is also being supported by Stagecoach, which has provided us with a full-time Project Manager on the ground in Tanzania. “It is thanks to this fantastic support we are able to deliver such valuable inputs. “These, in turn, enable the NIT to benefit from the knowledge of some of the best professionals in the UK industry.”
Training commences
On arriving at the NIT, Raj and Arthur saw the size of the challenge facing them. Standards of driving had slipped a little
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Charity › transaid
since this group had last received professional instruction, and this was an area where the two volunteers were able to have an instant impact. In addition to the training, they put forward a series of recommendations to Transaid and senior NIT staff, to review the standards of instructors and offer refresher training more regularly. “When we got out on the road, one of the biggest challenges we faced was roundabouts,” said Raj. “Because they don’t have many roundabouts in Tanzania, drivers are easily confused when they encounter them. It was a huge challenge initially, but it then became one of our principal achievements. The guys truly mastered the technique, understanding everything from lane positioning and signalling, to timing and hazard awareness.” “Another challenge was the standard of driving and the quality of the roads in Tanzania,” added Arthur. “You can be driving in the left-hand lane and other traffic will try and overtake you on the lefthand side. In the UK you’d never expect someone to ‘overtake’ on the side where there is no road, but in Tanzania it happens all the time.” Raj added: “We placed a huge focus on checking blindspots and mirrors prior to moving off; it is of pivotal importance out there.” As per their brief, the two training teams spent a full day practicing reversing exercises and perfecting techniques. Arthur explained: “We implemented a lesson plan which required each of our trainees to reverse park the Scania coach in between two parked vehicles using both left and right locks. After careful guidance, each candidate was able to manoeuvre the coach into the gap unaided; both accurately and with good observations. Objective achieved.” It wasn’t just on-road skills where the pairing could help to advance the proficiency of the instructors. Another key part of the training was highlighting the importance of carrying out constructive de-briefs with drivers. Raj said: “I focused on the art of ‘non-verbal communication’, stressing how eye contact between instructor and driver is vital and why the instructor should be sat or stood at the same level as the candidate, rather than looking down at him when speaking. “I was able to show my group www.coachandbusweek.com
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Above: Arthur Baddams (left) has been part of the National Express training team for 13 years. Right: Raj Bhutta’s focus is on Driver CPC
Meet the trainers: Raj is based at the National Express Training Centre (Walsall) and is one of the company’s specialist Driver Training Instructors. Approximately 70% of his time is focused on delivering Driver CPC courses, helping to ensure the firm’s circa 4000 drivers have completed their 35 hours periodic training by September 2013. Outside of the classroom, Raj also carries out advanced driver training for existing license holders, as well as helping new recruits to acquire their PCV licence. He’s spent the last seven years in a training role with National Express. Arthur, also a Driver Training Instructor, specialises in delivering NVQ courses for the fleet’s drivers and driver trainers. He also delivers Driver CPC courses and has been part of the company’s training team for an impressive 13 years. Based at the National Express Training Centre (Birmingham), his skills remit includes 30 years as an Advanced Driving Instructor. Together, they form part of a 35 strong training team at National Express. how best to deliver negative aspects of a driver de-brief, without it being demoralising for the candidate, and particularly without pointing, which I noticed was a common trait. With practice, they learned the ‘tone, pace and emphasis’ approach, which I’m confident they’ll be able to put to good use.” Commenting on the response to the training, Raj said: “It was a pleasure to work with six guys so keen to learn. On the day we said goodbye, the team couldn’t thank us enough for providing them with such an abundance of knowledge and information. “One of my instructors had a class to run the following week and told me he would have 51 students in attendance. He was really looking forward to utilising his newly acquired skills.” Arthur added: “The guys were always taking notes during our training. I gave out notebooks at the start of the course and by the end of the second week they had filled them.”
Reflections on Tanzania
Looking back on their time in Tanzania, Arthur said: “I returned home feeling very pleased I’d helped train three instructors to deliver training to a higher standard and with an increased focus on safety.” Raj agreed, adding: “It was fantastic to be selected to go back to Tanzania, and I’m very proud NatEx has been able to have such an impact in a country so far away. “The project fits perfectly with our company’s values. Safety and community are two of the values, and our work in Tanzania is a clear reflection of these. It’s great to be part of a company which sticks by its beliefs and actively supports the work of such an important charity.” Two further training instructors from NatEx – Kevin Roberts and Phil Reynolds – will be heading to Dar es Salaam to provide the next training input later this year. For further information on Transaid, and its work overseas, visit www.transaid.org
Road conditions in Tanzania: The traffic mix in Dar es Salaam is similar to the UK, with bus drivers sharing the roads with pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists, cars and commercial vehicles. But in Tanzania there is an additional hazard too; drivers must also contend with thousands of Bajajis. These three-wheel auto-rickshaw taxis, similar to Tuk-Tuks, often cut across in front of traffic and make abrupt and unexpected manoeuvres. However, while car ownership numbers are small, but increasing steadily as the country develops, there is still a seemingly disproportionate and insufficient number of buses on the roads to accommodate the large volume of people needing to travel. “One of the messages I am going to incorporate into my Driver CPC training courses back home is that UK coach drivers don’t know what bad traffic really is. You simply can’t, not until you have experienced driving in Dar es Salaam. We have it easy in the UK by comparison,” admitted Raj. “And the density of traffic is virtually constant. Even at 0600hrs on a Sunday morning there can be huge queues.” To experience a bus driver’s view of driving in Tanzania, visit http://tinyurl.com/cljrhz4 and to see the hive of activity at Ubungo Bus Terminal in Dar es Salaam at 0615hrs on a typical morning, visit: http://tinyurl.com/72equ34
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Bus and coach ƃQDQFH up to 100% LTV.
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DRIVERS
In association with
DriveTech
Send your driver news and stories to alex.tyler@coachandbusweek. com or call 01733 293 244.
Scania Driver CPC training accredited by IAM All drivers completing the course receive 12 month complimentary affiliate IAM membership The safe and fuel efficient Driver CPC training module developed by Scania GB has been accredited by the Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM) driver training company, Drive & Survive. Officially entitled Safe & Fuel Efficient Driving (LGV & PCV) Scania Driver CPC Module B, Scania claims it is currently the only commercial vehicle manufacturer Driver CPC course to have been awarded IAM-accredited status. The course is practical and covers both on-road instruction and classroom training. Key aspects of the course include safe driving, urban driving, driving style and techniques, use of the engine and gearbox and environmental considerations. As an additional benefit, all drivers
Bus Driver of the Year 2012 is still open for business The National Final of the UK Bus Driver of the Year (BDoY) competition will take place in Blackpool on Sunday, September 9 and entries are still being invited from operators large and small. Joe Mackie, Chairman of the UK Bus Driver of the Year Association, which organises the competition, said the 2012 National Final marked 46 years of BDoY which was first run in 1967 as a local contest in Coventry and subsequently grew into a popular national event. Last year’s overall winner, and
attending the course receive 12-month’s complimentary Affiliate Membership to the IAM. Scania’s Driver Training Manager Mark Agnew said: “Our Safe & Fuel Efficient Driver CPC course is the outcome of many hours spent considering the issues and then optimising the way in which
The course is claimed to be only commercial vehicle manufacturer Driver CPC course with the accreditation Bus Driver of the Year 2012, was Derek Wright from First Cymru, who will be trying to retain his title in the face of stiff competition from drivers employed by all the major bus groups, municipal operators and smaller companies. At this year’s National Final the awards and trophies will be presented by CPT President Mark Yexley, who is of course, also Operations and Commercial Director of Arriva UK Bus.
Entry forms have been sent to all companies which have previously participated in the competition, but operators who would like to become involved are invited to contact the Competition Secretary, Bill Holmes, on 01303 251462 or e-mail him at bdoy@btinternet. com. Visit the BDoY website at www.bdoy.co.uk
the messages are presented and conveyed to drivers “From the very outset, Scania’s approach has been to go further than simply meet the demands of Driver CPC legislation – our aim is to provide training which truly benefits both the driver and his or her employer. As such, we are delighted our Safe & Fuel Efficient module has been recognised and accredited by the IAM.” IAM Drive & Survive CEO Simon Best said: “By inviting our examiners to scrutinise its training first hand, Scania more than satisfied us. Its course is capable of making a substantial contribution towards improving safety on our roads. “We thoroughly congratulate the Scania team on their achievements and now wish them every success in spreading the messages of safety and fuel efficiency to commercial vehicle drivers nationwide.”
Top catering from Reading Transport Reading Transport’s Great Knollys Street dining facility, called Busfare, has been given a 4-star rating. It recently had its first inspection by the council since catering was returned in house and it has now gone from two-star to four-star. Marketing Manager Jake Osman said: “Congratulations to Claire Pyne and Linda Linton who have achieved the four-star rating by raising the standards. “From the feedback – excuse the pun – I have received there are no complaints from drivers. Everyone wants to see Claire and Linda go all out to achieve the five-star rating at the next assessment.”
Bill Law was first elected as Employee Director in 2003
Fourth term for First Aberdeen’s Bill Law Bill Law, a driver for First Aberdeen, has been elected ‘Employee Director’ to the company’s Board for a record fourth term by his colleagues. FirstGroup encourages its operating companies to elect Employee Directors to their Boards to ensure the views and opinions of staff are properly represented at board level. Law from the Bridge of Don has been a bus driver for First for more than 20 years. He was first elected Employee Director at First Aberdeen in 2003 and again in 2006 and 2009. “It is a privilege to sit on the First Aberdeen Board and act as a voice for the drivers, cleaners, engineers, mechanics and office based staff at the company,” he said. “I’m proud my colleagues consider me their choice to help shape and influence the First Aberdeen Board’s strategy and decisions.” David Stewart, Interim MD of First Aberdeen, welcomed Mr Law’s appointment. He said: “Bill has been a valuable member of the Board and is a powerful voice representing his colleagues in the Board Room. Given his huge contribution I am not surprised that he’s been elected for a fourth term. On behalf of the Board I’d like to extend our congratulations and we look forward to continuing our excellent working relationship.”
www.coachandbusweek.com
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PRODUCTS
Eberspacher develops new climate control range A complete new range of air conditioning equipment is being designed, developed and manufactured by Eberspächer in the UK covering applications from minibuses through to full size bus, coach, specialist LCV and truck applications. Vince Lee, Eberspächer UK’s MD, said: “Eberspächer UK has the proven capability to develop and manufacture its own air conditioning and climate control products. With the sale of Diavia, an Eberspächer supplier to one of our competitors, we have taken in-house all aspects of the design, development and manufacture of our own air conditioning and climate control products. This has given us the opportunity to enhance the product offering and reduce our dependency on outside suppliers.” As part of this process Eberspächer has designed and developed a complete range of competitively priced, robust, modular air conditioning units, which are now going into production at its UK headquarters. The design parameters for these new units were that they had to: n achieve Original Equipment (OE) quality standards n be light and compact n be the most powerful/efficient for their size
MiX Telematics launches MiX Insight Analyser for larger fleet customers MiX Telematics’ new analytics tool, MiX Insight Analyser is for larger Fleet Manager customers. It is an advanced, intuitive web-based product enabling fleet owners to scrutinise data and make decisions to optimise fleet operation. “MiX Insight Analyser represents the latest advance in fleet telematics business intelligence,” says Steve Coffin, Marketing & Operations Director for MiX Telematics in Europe. “By enabling customers to understand and interact with their fleet data like never before, the system makes the process of
Email martin.cole@rouncymedia. co.uk to get your new product or service in the spotlight
n be easy to install and maintain n provide class-leading standards of reliability “In developing the new Eberspächer range of modular units we were fully aware of the need to achieve the highest possible standards of performance, reliability and efficiency. These units are not only manufactured in the UK for use here, but will also be exported to meet demand from Eberspächer’s global network,” Vince Lee added. The new Eberspächer UK manufactured modular air conditioning units will initially be available in EV510 (500mm wide/10kW output) and EV814 (800mm wide/14kW output) models. The range will be expanded to include both lower and higher output units. In addition, the Eberspächer climate control range is being expanded with the UK launch, in June, of three units made by Eberspächer Sütrak, the longestablished manufacturer of specialist bus and coach air conditioning systems. These recently launched, rooftop-mounted air conditioning Eberspächer Sütrak units are designed to provide minibus/ midibus/midicoach operators with the benefits of efficient, high output cooling performance, premium levels of reliability and long service life. New to the UK market are the: AC 403 E: This 24V air conditioning unit is designed to suit small mini bus and cabin installations and can also be used for specialist applications. A key
identifying performance-enhancing measures more simple, efficient and effective. Fleet customers can achieve significant cost benefits and operational efficiencies.” Customers can explore fleet data in depth, while visualising it in a variety of reporting formats including tables, graphs and charts. The system is user-driven and has been designed to help operators detect trends and draw conclusions about their fleet usage by allowing managers to ask the exact questions to which they want answers. “Providing easy access to relevant information is a critical factor for the successful implementation of a fleet telematics solution,” concludes Coffin. Details: Steve Coffin Tel: 0121 717 5385. Mob: 07787 103267 E-mail: steve.coffin@ mixtelematics.com
feature of the AC 403 E is the ease of installation thanks to its all electric compressor drive system, pre-charged refrigerant loop system and an absence of hoses inside the vehicle. As well as easy installation these features also make for faster/ lower cost maintenance. AC 420: Available in two versions - AC 420 I and AC 420 II - these 12V systems are designed for more demanding 8 - 17 seat minibus applications. There is also a specific model available to suit the Mercedes Sprinter, a popular vehicle choice in this sector. Key benefits of these models are reduced leakage potential thanks to their semi-hermetic refrigerant circuits and easy maintenance access. The higher output AC 420 II is designed to operate in hot countries and brushless motor technology is optionally available, as is 100% fresh air feature. AC 520: This larger 24V range comes in four versions to suit
Vince Lee, Eberspächer UK’s Managing Director
Allison opens Hungarian Customer Experience Centre The newly completed Allison Customer Experience (ACE) Centre and Drive Track.in Hungary has ofically ben opened. ACE occupes a 15-acre (six-hectare) campus. Key cusomer Joel Andersson, Manager of Ragn-Sells’ 1,400 vehicle fleet from Sweden, is no stranger to Allison products. “I have always known Allison transmissions are very high quality products,” he said. “After visiting the new factory and the ACE Center in Szentgotthárd, I understand why. I was very impressed.” His comments underscored the importance of visiting a facility of this calibre, which can be a meaningful
the requirements of the mini and midi bus market for vehicles with 10 to 30 seats. Designed to operate efficiently in hot climates, all AC 520 models can easily cope with UK weather conditions. The AC 520’s micro-channel heat exchangers reduce the amount of refrigerant needed and brushless motor technology is optionally available as is 100% fresh air feature. All the newly launched rooftopmounted Eberspächer Sütrak air conditioning units are optionally available as full climate control packages coupled with Eberspächer diesel-fuelled heaters. In addition, Eberspächer has recently been appointed as the UK distributor for Wigam air conditioning workshop equipment. The Wigam range includes a special, large bus/ coach air conditioning charging system – the Amica Bus. This unit enables workshops to quickly re-gas the large air conditioning systems used on these vehicles. Eberspächer has also launched its Total Life Care (TLC) package. It provides a ‘one call’ service to Eberspächer’s dedicated After Sales team, which ensures a trained Eberspächer engineer is available to attend to any service issues. This means all vehicle bodybuilders and suppliers can relax in the knowledge Eberspächer UK continues to have its customers’ requirements covered for the life of the equipment. Details: Vince Lee, Tel: 01425 480151 or email: vincent. lee@eberspaecher.com part of the buying decision. “Opening the ACE Center and Drive Track adjacent to our European transmission manufacturing facility gives guests an opportunity to meet our people and learn about Allison - our company, our products and technology - while personally experiencing the features of our fully automatic transmissions,” stated Lawrence Love, Allison Transmission’s Executive Director of International Marketing. “Szentgotthárd is a centralized location, where both onand off-highway vehicles can now be driven and demonstrated, allowing customers from around the world to evaluate the benefits of an Allison automatic in varying conditions and right from the driver’s seat.” “Allison Transmission is a global company. Its investment in industry here is flourishing,” said Gábor Huszár, the Mayor of Szentgotthárd. www.coachandbusweek.com
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COACH&BUSMARKET – the place to buy and sell
To advertise on these pages for as little as £30 just call 01733 293247 2003 FORD TRANSIT 410
Network Warrington have the following vehicles for sale
17 seat factory bus, ex-council, low mileage, Class 5 MOT
£4,950
For more information visit
www.staffordbuscentre.com Tel: 01782 791774/07803 222552 For Sale: Due to fleet replacement, we need to sell up to 5 of the following and don’t mind which 5! Dennis Plaxton R Series Cummins 420 2003: 2 x 49/53 seats with WC, 3 x 53 seats 2004: 5 x 53 seats 2005: 2 x 53 seats Volvo B12B Plaxton Paragon: 2006: 2 x 49/53 seats with WC, 1 x 53 seats All are well maintained, low mileage examples (approximately 62,000km per annum) with long MoT, air conditioning and AStronic/Easyshift gearboxes. Owned by us from new and used on our own holiday programme. All over cream. Priced to sell at £37,000 (03 reg), £48,000 (04 reg), £59,000 (05 reg) and £89,000 (06 reg) plus VAT (£3,000 premium for WC). Sorry no part exchange facilities!
To view contact Tom Smith, Operations Manager, Alfa Travel on 08451 305777
Passenger and Commercial Vehicles Recovery Dismantlers Parts Sales
Dennis Pointer Dart Mk2 x 100 All spares available - includes engine, gearboxes, seats, etc.
Call: 01226 727769 Mobile: 07912 103497 Email: geoff-ripley@btconnect.com www.geoff-ripleysbuscoachsales.com
MERCEDES 814D OPTARE NOUVELLE ’54 Plate
5 speed manual, 29 recliners + crew seat, 3 point lap belts, water boiler + fridge, dark-tint windows, in-swing door, carpet, curtains, large boot, radio/PA/CD/ PA/DVD+Monitor. Full MOT if required. £34,500.00 + VAT.
Tel : 01905 458529
2004 (54) Neoplan Starliner Tri-Axle Corporate/Team Coach
32 leather seats around 8 tables, full rear servery with fridges, ice machine, hot water, microwave and airline style food warmers, 3 extra fridges throughout coach, airline style overhead lockers, 240v inverter and onboard generator, Blaupunkt sound system with DVD & SKY TV (2 screens), extra mini screens on a separate channel on both front tables, ASTronic gearbox, A/C, WC, fully carpeted, removable ski box, spare seats.
Dennis Dart SLF 10.8m 1999, Choice of 6, Cummins 6BT, Allison AT545 4 speed auto, Marshall body, 40 seats. Contact Damian Graham (Engineering Director) Warrington Borough Transport Ltd Wilderspool Causeway, Warrington WA4 6PT. Tel 01925 634296
COACH&BUSMARKET Looking for a great deal to sell your vehicles?
Contact Jade Cassidy now for our current offers : 01733 293247 jade.cassidy@rouncymedia.co.uk Coach & Bus Week – the only paid-for weekly magazine in the bus and coach industry – there’s no comparison!
Volvo B12M VanHool
£94,000 + VAT o.n.o.
Manual, choice of two, 2002 & 2003, both with new MOT, low miles, owned from new, both 51 seaters, full exec with rear toilet and rear servery, selling due to fleet upgrade
For more details call Patrick or Murray 01787 477701/ 07730 671064
Contact Ian 01443 681995
£55,000 and £65,000
Volvo B12 Van-Hool 1995 14 berth sleeper
LEZ compliant, MOT 03/13, static A/C, tow bar. Well maintained, ready to work. For more information call Tim on 07900 111110 or email tim@sleeperbuses.info
Telephone Jade Cassidy on 01733 293247 or email jade.cassidy@rouncymedia.co.uk
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To advertise on these pages for as little as £30 just call 01733 293247 2011 MAN Neoplan Tourliner 440bhp, 49 recliners, centre sunken toilet, air con, alloy wheels, satnav. This coach has all the extras with a very low mileage. Choice of two – one white, one black £215,000+VAT 1995 Volvo B10M Caetano Algarve 70 seat coach with Cogent seats, long MOT £25,000+VAT 1993 Volvo Caetano Algarve 70 seat coach with Cogent seats, long MOT, good condition £22,000+VAT 1991 Volvo B10M Plaxton Paramount 70 seat coaches, choice of three all in good condition, good panelwork, long MOTs £13,000+VAT Telephone 01920 550365 or Mobile 07736 490200 – Scotland
2005 Ford Transit 410
Factory minibus, fitted with 14 moquette h/b coach seats, COIF, tacho and new PSV, 120,000 miles For more information visit
£5950
www.staffordbuscentre.com Tel: 01782 791774/07803 222552
FOR SALE BY TENDER 1240 x Surplus ‘Tait T2030’
MOBILE RADIOS
Dublin Bus provides public transport bus services within the greater Dublin area.
In 2001 Dublin Bus upgraded the VHF radio system to a Tait Private Mobile Radio (PMR) system. Included in this system was the ʻT2030ʼ mobile radio (400-470MHz narrow band trunked radio) which was installed in each bus to allow direct communications between the bus driver and supervisor. In 2011 Dublin Bus upgraded the Tait mobile radio with the introduction of an Automatic Vehicle Location system throughout the fleet.
As a result of this upgrade Dublin Bus now have 1240 x ʻT2030ʼ mobile radios for sale. The units are boxed in units of 10, ready to be shipped. The successful party will be responsible for carriage, insurance etc when removing the radios from Dublin Bus Premises in Dublin City. Bids will be considered for one, some or all of the radios.
To request a Tender Document or to arrange to inspect the radios, please contact the following: chris.quinlan@dublinbus.ie (00 353 1 7033472) or Paul.duffy@dublinbus.ie (00 353 17033474) www.dublinbus.ie
Closing date: 5pm, June 27th
2007 Ford Transit
17 seat factory bus, only 39,000 miles, COIF, tacho and new PSV
£12450
Don’t forget to say that you saw it in
For more information visit
www.staffordbuscentre.com Tel: 01782 791774/07803 222552
FREEDESIGNFREEWEBADFREEFULLCOLOURFREEDESIGNFREEWEBADFREEFULLCOLOUR
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Ensig DOUBLE DECK 1999 T/V REG DENNIS TRIDENTS
LEZ
COMPLIANT
Cummins/Voith, LEZ compliant with traps, Plaxton President bodies, 62 seats dual door (£13,000) or 70 when converted to single door (£16,000).
1999/2000 T/V/X REG DENNIS TRIDENTS
Cummins/Voith, LEZ compliant for 2012 with traps to Euro 4, CCTV, Alexander ALX400 bodies, DDA compliant or upseated to 80 seats.
2000 DAF SB120
1999 T/V REG DENNIS DART SLF’S
Caetano Compass bodies, 39 seats, ramps, £7000 each plus tyres.
Cummins / Allison, Wrights Cadet body, ramp, wheelchair space, Hanover LEDʼs, CCTV, 39 retrimmed individual seats, from our own fleet and very tidy.
1997/98 VOLVO OLYMPIANS
1998 R REG VOLVO OLYMPIAN
Volvo Euro 2 engines, ZF gearboxes, Northern Counties bodies, 78 seats.
ZF automatic, 74 seats, dual door, CONVERTIBLE open topper, so can still be used in the Winter! One only.
1995 M REG DENNIS DRAGONS
2000 X REG VOLVO B7LA ARTIC
Cummins/Voith gearboxes, Duple Metsec bodies, recent floors and 92 coach seats.
120 capacity, new MOT on sale, last one remaining.
2001 DDA COMPLIANT DENNIS DARTS
Plaxton Pointer 2 dual door bodies, 31 seats, CCTV, particulate traps fitted, LEZ 2012 compliant, only £6,500 each plus tyres (£400)
2001 Y REG DART SLF’S
Cummins/Allison, LEZ compliant for 2012 with traps to Euro 4, CCTV, Alexander ALX200 bodies with either 30 seats and 2 doors or 34 seats converted to single door, ramps, DDA certified and compliant. 10.8m 37 seaters now available.
OPEN TOP BUSES A SPECIALITY -
Juliette Close, Purfleet Industrial Telephone 01708 865656 Fax: 01708 8 Visit our website for current s
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nbus ER SPECIALIST 2004 OPTARE SOLO
GREAT VALUE DENNIS DARTS!!!
31 seats, Euro 3 Mercedes engine, new MOT.
2001 Y REG DART MPD
DDA compliant, 8.8m, 28 seats, LEZ compliant, Hanover LEDʼs, from our own fleet.
1996/7 N and R Reg with Plaxton bodies, 35/40 seats, single door, long tests. £4500 plus tyres
2003 MAN 14.220
Hanover LEDʼs, East Lancs Myllenium body, 39 seats.
2003 MAN 14.220’S
Euro 3, ZF automatics, 35 seats, East Lancs Myllenium bodies. Only £15,000.
2002 DENNIS DART SLF
2007 VOLVO B9TL’S
Euro 4, Wrights Gemini bodies, dual door, 68 seats.
2007 MAN 14.220
Cummins Euro 3 ISB engines, Allison gearboxes, Caetano Nimbus bodies, 10.7m, 37 seats, full DDA.
£7000 just spend on recon engine, MCV Evolution body, 40 seats, DDA, Hanover LEDʼs.
1997/8 VOLVO OLYMPIANS
1999 S REG SUPER POINTER DART
Volvo engines, Euro 2, 78 seats, converted to single door, new COIF, tyres included, UK registered ready to work. Seat belted examples now available.
2001 X REG DENNIS DART MPD’S 25 seats, ramps, good MOTʼs.
11.3m, uprated engine and Allison World Series gearbox, 41 seats.
2000 X REG VOLVO B6 ZF automatic, SLF, Wrights body.
- BRITAIN’S BIGGEST BUS DEALERS Park, Purfleet, Essex, RM15 4YF 8 864340 e-mail: sales@ensignbus.com t stock at www.ensignbus.com
553368-1036-Pembridge
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NEW PRE-REGISTERED FORDS
New Ford Transit 17 seat 4.3ton 135ps minibus. From £20,595 + VAT
OTHER MAKES
FORD TRANSIT MINIBUSES
(11) 2011 Ford Transit 9 seat Shuttle Bus, twin side loading doors, large rear luggage area, delivery miles only £16,995 (11) 2011 Ford Transit 15 seat 3.5 ton, 2.4tdi engine 115ps, tacho, 10,000 km £17,500
(10) 2010 Ford Transit 17 seat M/R 140PS with air-con, tacho, COIF/PSV £17,995
SOLD
(08) 2008 Ford Transit 3.5ton 15 seat 2.4tdi, 115ps, high back seats with three point belts, tacho £13,800 (
(56) Ford Transit 17 seat 2.4tdi 115ps, high back seats, electric windows, central locking, 66,000 miles, FSH, COIF/PSV £9,995 (53) 2003 Ford Transit 17 seat 2.4 td minibus, high back seats with three point belts, tacho, air-con, COIF/PSV £6,995 (52) 2003 Ford Transit 17 seat 2.4tdi, tacho, towbar, high back seats with three point belts, COIF/PSV £6,495
LDV MINIBUSES
(57) 2007 LDV Maxus 15 seat minibus, high back seats with three point belts £7,495
(03) 2003 LDV Convoy Maxi XLWB 17 seat mini-coach, 2.4 Tdi, front entry drop step, luggage racks, rear heating, wide aisle, rear row of seats removable, New PSV £6,495
OTHER MAKES
New Renault Master 17 seat LM35/ 2.2di 125ps, six speed, satnav, tacho, fully tracked floor with removable seats £21,995
New Peugeot Boxer 16 seat 3.5 ton and 17 seat wheelchair accessible minibuses, 2.2 diesel 120ps, six speed gearbox, LEZ COMPLIANT From £23,500 + VAT (09) 2009 Renault Master 16 seat minibus, tacho,high back seats with three point belts, 35,000km £15,650 (07) 2007 Peugeot Boxer 3.5 ton 17 seat minibus, high back seats, rear two rows of seats on tracking, 33,000 miles COIF/PSV £9,500 (07) Peugeot Boxer 3.5 ton 17 seat minibus, 2.2 diesel with three point seat belts, 28,000 miles, COIF/PSV £10,495
WHEELCHAIR ACCESS
(08) Renault Master LWB 3.5 ton, 2.5 tdi, six seats, fully tracked floor, inboard Ricon Clearway lift, one owner from new, 40,000 miles £16,750 (57) LDV Maxus LWB 9 seats tracking to take two wheelchairs, inboard lift, 49,000 miles, £9,995 (54) 2005 Renault Master 13 seat wheelchair access minibus, inboard Ricon lift, fully tracked floor, rear heating, electric side step, 56,000 miles £8,995 (03) 2003 Fiat Doblo SX 1.9 diesel, low floor, four seats plus one wheelchair, lightweight ramp, 45,000 miles £3,495 Y 2001 Renault Mascot 2.8 diesel, 16 seat wheelchair accessible minibus, front entry drop step, fully tracked floor to take five wheelchairs, under floor lift, rear heating, COIF/PSV £6,495
Contact Graham Thatcher – email: sales@minibussales.co.uk
Tel: 01633 485858 Mobile: 07866 443304
Pembridge House, The Park Business Centre, Plough Road, Goytre, Penperlleni, Nr Usk, South Wales NP4 0AL – 10 minutes from M4 motorway. Viewing by appointment only Finance Contract Hire and Finance Lease Available. We deliver Nationwide. All vehicles prepared to VOSA standard COIF/PSV specialist
All above prices are subject to VAT @ 20%
000000-1040-Bowen
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555537-1039-Edinburgh
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Have the following coaches for sale
2 x 2003 SCANIA IRIZAR CENTURYS
LEZ
COMPLIANT
With 49 reclining seats. One vehicle is white with no markings and and is MOT’d until Sept 2012. The other has removable vinyls and is MOT’d until May. Toilet, PA system, aircon in both and they are in very good condition. £57,500 LEZ Compliant £50,000 non-Compliant
2002 MAN MAGO I Charcoal grey with 33 reclining seats. Air-con and PA system. To be sold with new MOT. A rare vehicle possibly the only one in the UK. We have had this Midi coach since new and it has performed very well for us. Priced at £25,000 o.n.o
Call Peter today on 0131 554 5413
06 (06) FORD TRANSIT 9 SEAT W/CHAIR ACC OR 4 SEATING/2 W/CHAIR NEW INTERNAL LIFT £11,495
31/12/2010 (60) FORD TRANSIT 17 SEAT MINIBUS COIF/ PSV CHOICE OF 2 - 26,000/31,000 MILES £16,995
05 (55) MERCEDES SPRINTER 413CDI UVG TREKA 17 SEAT WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE 74,000KMS COIF/PSV £16,995
2010 (60) RENAULT TRAFFIC 9 SEAT WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE DELIVERY MILEAGE £24,995
MULTIPART & LDV/MAXUS PARTS STOCKISTS
(PONTYPOOL) LTD
NOW AVAILABLE FOR VIEWING
P.O.A.
• ALTAS CONVERSION • 17 SEAT MINICOACH • DOUBLE GLAZED WINDOWS • FULL AIR CONDITIONING • POWER DOOR LOW ENTRY STEP • HI-VIS WINDSCREEN • COACH STYLE REAR WITH DROP WELL BOOT • LUGGAGE RACKS • MANY EXTRAS
NEW MERCEDES SPRINTER TOURLINE 516CDI
Tel: 01495 757111 Mob: 07850 739446 (Haydn) or visit our website www.minibussales.biz to view the above stock
2005 (55) FORD TRANSIT 17 SEAT MINIBUS 115PS COIF/PSV IN WHITE 77,500MLS TACHO £9,495
2006 (55) LDV CONVOY ELWB MINI COACH 17 SEATS 90PS EXCEL CONVERSION COIF/PSV TACHO £11,995
08 (58) MERCEDES SPRINTER 2-09 CDI W/CHAIR ACC 6 SEATS INC DRIVER 20,000 MILES £18,995
16:04
07 (07) LDV MAXUS W/CHAIR ACCESSIBLE 4 SEAT INBOARD LIFT UNWIN TRACKING £12,495
11/6/12
06 (06) VW LT46 16 SEAT W/CHAIR ACC U/FLOOR LIFT CLIMATE CONTROL DIGI TACHO COIF/PSV £15,995
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BEN WEAVER commercials PSV
2004 04 IVECO DAILY 50C13 15 SEAT WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE WELFARE MINIBUS 2.8 turbo diesel engine, Mellor conversion, tracking for 6 wheelchairs, underfloor rear electric lift, analogue tachograph, 65000 miles, finished in blue £795 + VAT
2003 03 REG IVECO DAILY 50C13 15 SEAT WELFARE BUS 2800cc turbo diesel, 6 speed gearbox, Mellor Coachcraft conversion, ex local authority vehicle, Ricon internal rear wheelchair lift, tracking for upto 6 wheelchairs, tachograph, 176000 kilometers 110000 miles, excellent condition, supplied with 12 months MoT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 3 months nationwide parts and labour warranty £ 7495 + VAT
2008 58 FORD TRANSIT 17 SEAT HIGH ROOF MINIBUS 2400cc turbo diesel engine,CD player, electric windows, digital tachograph, 93000 miles, supplied with 12 months MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 3 months nationwide parts and labour warranty £13995 + VAT
PSV
2007 07 FORD TRANSIT 17 SEAT MEDIUM ROOF MINIBUS 2400cc 115ps turbo diesel engine, electric windows, electric mirrors, CD player, only 37000 miles, supplied with 12 months MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 3 months nationwide parts and labour warranty. £12495 + VAT
2004 54 VOLKSWAGEN LT46 17 SEAT WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE MINIBUS 2500 TDI 109bhp, Ddvanced minibus conversion, tachograph, Ratcliffe underfloor rear wheelchair lift, AVS side step, 194000 kilometers 121000 miles, excellent condition, supplied with 12 months MoT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 3 months nationwide parts and labour warranty, no vat to pay £9995 NO VAT
2005 05 FORD TRANSIT 15 SEAT MEDIUM ROOF MINIBUS 2400cc turbo diesel 135ps engine, 6 speed gearbox, analogue tachograph, COIF, electric windows, electric mirrors, 123000 miles, supplied with 12 months MOT or PSV, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 3 months nationwide parts and labour warranty. £6495 NO VAT
2003 53 MERCEDES SPRINTER 313 CDI LWB HIGH ROOF 15 SEAT MINIBUS 2.2 turbo diesel engine, certificate of initial fitness, 4 seats across the rear with luggage space, twin side loading doors, electric windows, electric mirrors, air con, climate control, automatic side step, lift up sky lights, carpeted roof, finished in white, 52000 miles £10495 + VAT
MERCEDES, VARIO 814 21 SEAT WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE MINIBUS With tacho, white, 2003, 98000 miles, awaiting preparation, 4300cc turbo diesel, manual, Ricon internal electric lift, analogue tacho, front electric door, will be white, 12 months MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Schemes standard, 3 mths nationwide parts and labour warranty £11995 + VAT
PSV
2007 07 FORD TRANSIT 15 SEAT MINIBUS Factory fitted digital tachograph, COIF, PSV, 2400cc turbo diesel 115ps, 6 speed gearbox, LEZ compliant, CD player, electric windows, electric mirrors, remote central locking, 98000 miles, supplied with 12 months PSV or MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 3 months nationwide parts and labour warranty. £10,995 + VAT
2007 07 FORD TRANSIT 15 SEAT MEDIUM ROOF MINIBUS 2400cc turbo diesel 100ps engine, LEZ compliant, digital tachograph, electric windows, electric mirrors, CD player, 133000 miles with full service history, supplied with 12 months MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 3 months nationwide parts and labour warranty. £8495+VAT
PSV
2003 03 REG BMW 318 CI SE COUPE 2.0 petrol engine, 5 speed manual gearbox, 17 inch M Sport alloys, 6 disc CD stacker, on board computer, reverse parking sensors, multi function steering wheel, front fog lights, cruise control, electric windows, power heated door mirrors, air conditioning, 119,000 miles with history, supplied with 12 months MoT and just been fully serviced, now £3395 NO VAT
2001 51 REG. MERCEDES 8 SEAT WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE DISABILITY MINIBUS 2.2 turbo diesel, Ratcliffe underfloor rear wheelchair lift, tracking for up to 3 wheelchairs, side access step, carpeted roof lining, 2 sunroofs, 136000 miles, finished in classic red, excellent condition £4795 + VAT
2004 04 IVECO DAILY IRIS MWB 9 SEATER 2.8 turbo diesel, 8 velour passenger seats, panaramic glass, ex local authority, only 48000 miles, photos taken prior to valeting £5495 + VAT
2009 09 FORD TRANSIT 15 SEAT MEDIUM ROOF MINIBUS 2400cc 140ps turbo diesel engine, LEZ compliant, electric windows, electric mirrors, CD player, 71000 miles, supplied with 12 months MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 3 months nationwide parts and labour warranty. £12995 + VAT
2003 53 OPTARE ALERO 12 SEAT PLUS DRIVER PLUS 4 STANDEES BUS 2800cc turbo diesel, fold out ramp to the side, air con, certificate of initial fitness, PSV, 113000 miles, excellent condition £7995 + VAT
2008 08 REG FORD TRANSIT 17 SEAT MINIBUS 2400cc turbo diesel, LEZ compliant, digital tachograph, 63000 miles, supplied with 12 months MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 3 months nationwide parts and labour warranty. £13295 + VAT
2007 57 FORD, TRANSIT 17 SEAT MEDIUM ROOF MINIBUS - NEW SHAPE White, 2007, 64000 miles, 2400cc turbo diesel, LEZ, electric windows, power heated door mirrors, heated windscreen, CD player, exc condition, 12 months MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Schemes standard, 3 mths nationwide parts and labour warranty £12,995 + VAT
2004 54 VOLKSWAGEN, LT46 17 SEAT WHEELCHAIR ACCESIBLE WELFARE MINIBUS Tacho, white, 158000 miles, awaiting preparation, 2500cc turbo diesel, internal wheelchair lift, tracking for 6 wheelchairs, analogue tacho, 12 months MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Schemes standard, 3 mths nationwide parts and labour warranty £7995 + VAT
2007 07 REG FORD TRANSIT 17 SEAT MINIBUS 2400cc turbo diesel engine, electric windows, power heated door mirrors, heated windscreen, reverse parking sensors, LEZ compliant, 48000 miles with service history, supplied with 12 months MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 3 months nationwide parts and labour warranty. £13995 + VAT
2007 07 FORD TRANSIT 17 SEAT MEDIUM ROOF MINIBUS 2400cc 6 speed turbo diesel 115ps engine, electric front windows, power heated door mirrors, LEZ compliant, CD player, 64000 miles, supplied with 12 months MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 3 months nationwide parts and labour warranty. £13795 + VAT
2003 03 REG MERCEDES 313CDI LWB HIGH ROOF 17 SEAT SPRINTER This is a 3500kgs vehicle so any licence is OK to drive it, Advanced conversion, 2200cdi diesel, electric door mirrors, 110000 miles, supplied with 12 months MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 3 months nationwide parts and labour warranty. £9995 NO VAT
2004 04 FORD TRANSIT HIGH ROOF 9 SEAT WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE MINIBUS LEZ compliant, 2.0 135ps turbo diesel engine front wheel drive, ex NHS, Ricon fully electric internal wheelchair lift, air conditioning, electric windows, CD player, front fog lights, 147 000 miles, finished in white, excellent condition £4995 + VAT
2008 08 REG BMW 318I ES 4 DOOR SALOON 2000cc petrol, 6 speed manual gearbox, black, grey cloth interior, alloy wheels, air conditioning, CD player, electric windows, elecric mirrors, 6 months tax, 70000 miles with full BMW service history £7795
2004 54 MERCEDES SPRINTER 311 13 SEAT TRAVELINER MINIBUS 2200cc turbo diesel engine, 3 point seat belts, high back seats, single passenger seat could be replaced with a double seat to make upto a 14 seater, 119000 miles with full history, supplied with 12 months MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 3 months nationwide parts and labour warranty. £7495 + VAT
2002 52 IVECO DAILY 40C11 15 SEAT FRONT ENTRY WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE MINIBUS Can be made up to 17 seats, 2800cc turbo diesel engine, analogue tachograph, tracking for 4 wheelchairs, Ratcliffe underfloor electric lift, 42000 miles, supplied with 12 months MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 3 months nationwide parts and labour warranty. £6995 NO VAT
All vehicles supplied with 12 months MOT/PSV, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards and 3 months nationwide parts and labour warranty
Gower Street, Sheffield, S4 7JW Tel: 0114 275 7076 www.benweavercommercials.co.uk
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52 | COACH & BUS WEEK | June 13, 2012
MAYPOLE COACHES ADL ENVIRO 200 58/09 REG
COACH OPERATORS FOR OVER 50 YEARS DUE TO RESTRUCTURING HAVE THE FOLLOWING VEHICLES FOR SALE: Belted, S/D con, tacho, Eminox, Euro 4, driver air con, 60 mph, 12 mths MOT £16,000 + VAT
29 seats Choice of 4
81 SEATS VOLVO OLYMPIAN
From £59,950
Eminox exhaust, air con, 60 mph, 12 mths MOT, £11,500 + VAT
74 SEAT BELTED
For more information visit
www.staffordbuscentre.com Tel: 01782 791774/07803 222552
As above £10,000 + VAT
74 SEATS WITHOUT BELTS
1994 VOLVO B10M JONCKHEERE DEAUVILLE
Retrimmed 2 yr ago, 12 mths MOT, 51 seats with belts, toilet, DVD/monitor £12,500 + VAT
QUALITY USED VEHICLES
1993 VOLVO B10M VANHOOL T8 BODYWORK
Coaches 2010 DAF E4 auto TEMSA SAFARI HD 55 rec seats 2 point belts, air con LEZ COMP 2008 SETRA E4 AS-tronic MERC eng 49 rec seats, centre toilet, fridge, drinks, air con LEZ COMP 2007 VDL SB4000 XF auto VANHOOL ALIZEE T9 47/51 rec seats, rear toilet, wheel chair lift, air con LEZ COMP 2007 MAN E4 auto TEMSA OPALIN 9 35 rec seats, air con LEZ COMP 2006 VDL SB4000 XF auto VANHOOL ALIZEE T9 42/49 rec seats, rear toilet, fridge, boiler, air con 2006 BOVA man FUTURA FH 49/53 rec seats, centre toilet, fridge, drinks, air con 2006 VOLVO B12M I Shift PLAXTON PANTHER 55 rec seats, rear toilet, wheel chair lift, air con 2006 IVECO EURORIDER E3 AS-tronic BEULAS CYGNUS 49 rec seats, centre toilet, fridge, drinks, air con 2006 VDL SB4000XF auto VANHOOL ALIZEE T9 42/49 rec seats, rear toilet, fridge, boiler, air con 2003 VOLVO B12B auto VANHOOL T9 49 rec seats, centre demountable toilet, fridge, drinks, air con
Buses 2010 TEMSA auto AVENUE 42 seats plus 28 standees 2009 VDL SB200 auto WRIGHTBUS PULSAR 2 44 fixed seats plus 28 standees 2006 DENNIS DART ADL Special Offer £38,000 29 seats plus 17 standees 2002 VDL SB200 auto WRIGHTBUS COMMANDER 44 fixed seats plus 29 standees 1997 DAF SB220 auto OPTARE DELTA 49 seats plus 23 standees
01274 681144
Gomersal, Cleckheaton, West Yorkshire, BD19 4BJ Email: busandcoachsales@arriva.co.uk www.arrivabusandcoach.co.uk Bus and Coach
take a test drive today
1999/2000 Dennis Trident Alexander ALX 400 V and X reg, long wheelbase, EURO 4
12 mths MOT, toilet, DVD/monitor, 49 seats with belts £11,000 + VAT 63 seats, ZF auto, 3 point belts, 12 mths MOT, tacho £5,500 + VAT
1992 LEYLAND LYNX
60 coach seats 3 point belts,Cummins/ Allison, 12 mths MOT, tacho, radio £5,900 + VAT
1996 BLUEBIRD BUS
Tel: 0151 547 2713 or 07802 235778
COACH&BUSMARKET Looking for a great deal to sell your vehicles? Buy 3 weeks get a 4th week
FREE!
Contact Jade Cassidy now on :
01733 293247 For more information visit
www.staffordbuscentre.com Tel: 01782 791774/07803 222552
jade.cassidy@rouncymedia.co.uk Coach & Bus Week – the only paid-for weekly magazine in the bus and coach industry – there’s no comparison!
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June 13, 2012 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 53
Due to fleet replacement
FOR SALE BY TENDER
• 38 x ‘AV’ BUS: x Volvo B7TL DD/Alexander (Falkirk & Belfast) ‘ALX400’ Double Deck (Year 2000, Volvo D7C-215 / ZF4HP502C) Single Door-Seating Capacity-U/S 49 , L/S 26 & W/Chair or 27 +15 Standees
• 6 x ‘WV’ Bus: Volvo B6BLE / Wrights Crusader Single Deck Buses (Year 2000, Volvo D6A / ZF4HP500) Passenger Capacity: 35 Seats & 20 StandeesAll the above are Super low floor with powered wheelchair ramp and space and are fitted with ʻFogmakerʼ fire suppression equipment. ALSO AVAILABLE:
• 2 x ‘RV’ Bus: Volvo Olympian/Alexander (Belfast) R-Type Double Deck Buses
1995 Registered, Cummins L10 / ZF4HP500, Passenger capacity: 74 Seats & 13 Standees, Step Entrance, Dual Door – Fitted with ʻFogmakerʼ fire suppression equipment. 9.6M bodies.
THESE VEHICLES ARE CONVERTED TO TRAINING SCHOOL CONFIGURATION ALL VEHICLES WILL BE SOLD AS SEEN AND COME WITH TYRES INCLUDED IN SALE. To arrange to view the vehicles or to request a Tender Form, please contact Chris Quinlan, Procurement Manager, on 00 353 1 7033472 chris.quinlan@dublinbus.ie, or Paul Duffy, Procurement Department on 00 353 1 7033474 paul.duffy@dublinbus.ie during office hours. Bidders may offer for one, some or all of the vehicles. Vehicles will be off service by end December 2012 CLOSING DATE FOR RECEIPT OF SEALED BIDS: 17.00Hrs on Friday, July 6th 2012
Kinglong Scotland KINGLONG 2012
XMQ 6127 53/49 luxury recliners, DVD, Flatscreens, W/C, A/C, many extras as standard From £179,950 + VAT
XMQ 6900 35 leather recliners or 31 with W/C, DVD, Flatscreen, many extras £134,950 + VAT
XMQ 6800 8 metres of luxury mini coach, 31/29 recliners, DVD, Flatscreen, A/C £99,950 + VAT Manual £109,950 + VAT Auto XMQ 6130Y TRI AXLE!! Ultimate coach, 55/59 seats @ 13 metre, D/G, A/C, W/C, MP3, 3 flatscreens, drivers bunk!!! £229,950 + VAT secures 13 metre
AVAILABLE TO ORDER NOW!!!!
XMQ 6127J Ultimate City Bus, Low floor entry with tilt, LEZ compliant, Euro 5 Cummins, LED as standard, CCTV, 12 metre gives 37 + 3 + 34 standees only £134k + VAT 9 metre gives 24 + 3 + 17 standees only £109k + VAT All the above come with 2 year warranty!!!!
Used, nearly new stock available!!
Authorised stockist Kinglong parts and glass.
01651 872864 Office 07769719252 Mobile 24/7 kinglongscotland@yahoo.co.uk
Station Yard, Oldmeldrum, AB51 0EZ
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2005 MAN 14.240 MCV EVOLUTION SERVICE BUS
2003 Neoplan Skyliner • 75 seater • Low mileage and excellent condition • Euro 4 with RPC • Mercedes V8/AsTronic box. • Ski box • MOT Oct 2012 Probably the best Skyliner available
40 seats, NEW MOT TO MAY 2013, repanelled and repainted 2 pack white, engine overhauled, Hanover LED destination gear, drives fantastic, superb condition.
Photos available
Bargain at £89,000 + VAT
£26,500 + VAT o.v.n.o.
Tel: 01296 398300
Contact Steve on 07795 347476 or 01492 640320 (North Wales)
Motts Travel, Buckinghamshire
BUS & CO A CH S A LE S
2010 2010 2009 2008 2006
Volvo B12B Prestige 49/51 seats A/C . . . . .£149,000 MAN Panther DDA 49 seats A/C . . . . . . . . .£120,000 Mercedes Rhinobus 29 seats A/C . . . . . . . . .£29,000 Iveco S2000 Irisbus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£12,000 Mercedes Touro 49 seats A/C . . . . . . . . . . . . .£95,000
2006 2004 2004 2003 1998
MAN Plaxton 49 seats A/C . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£95,000 MAN Marco Polo 70 seats A/C . . . . . . . . . . . .£46,000 MAN Noge Catalan 51 seats A/C . . . . . . . . .£44,000 MAN Marco Polo 70 seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£39,000 Merc Beaver 27 seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£5,000
TO VIEW CALL 07979 295668
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June 13, 2012 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 55
DARTLINE
VOLVO B6 BLE ALEXANDER ALX P & R REG 35 seats
From £3,750
For more information visit
www.staffordbuscentre.com Tel: 01782 791774/07803 222552
THE SUMMER COACH & BUS AUCTION Saturday 7th July 2012, 10.30am
3x Optare Solos
2005, 33 seats, 9.2m long, Mercedes engines, approx. 200,000 miles each, well maintained, Mobitec destination boards, MOTs Nov/Dec 2012
£35,000 each, reduced if more than 1 taken
Contact Simon on 01392 872900
Viewing Friday 6th July 2012 Prees Storage Ltd, A49, Prees, Higher Heath, Whitchurch, Shropshire, SY13 3JX
WANTED
COACHES, SERVICE BUSES, MINI BUSES TO ADD TO PARCELS OF VEHICLES ALREADY RECEIVED
COACH&BUSMARKET Looking for a great deal to sell your vehicles? Buy 3 weeks get a 4th week
FREE!
Contact Jade Cassidy now on :
01733 293247 jade.cassidy@rouncymedia.co.uk Coach & Bus Week – the only paid-for weekly magazine in the bus and coach industry – there’s no comparison!
FREE ONLINE BIDDING AVAILABLE Click the link on our website to register
Contact Charlie Foyle or Graham Johnson with your additional single items or Parcels of equipment
01630 674326 or Fax 01630 674356 www.malcolmharrison.co.uk auctions@malcolmharrison.co.uk All overseas and first time buyers not known to the auctioneer must lodge £1000 refundable deposit on registration by cash/credit/debit card.
MALCOLM HARRISON AUCTIONS
2009 09 REG FORD TRANSIT
15 seat factory bus with only 9K miles, tacho, COIF applied for
£14,250
For more information visit
www.staffordbuscentre.com Tel: 01782 791774/07803 222552
555709-1040-Pickrell
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H.W. PICKRELL MINIBUS AND WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE VEHICLES
Gardiners Lane North • Crays Hill • Billericay • Essex • CM11 2XE Tel: 01268 521033 • Mobile: 07860 894331 • Fax: 01268 284951
Email: sales@hwpickrell.co.uk - www.hwpickrell.co.uk
Finance available on all vehicles (subject to status) Written details on request.
WH E E LCH AIR ACCE S S IBL E MI NI BUS E S
2004/05 54 REG MERCEDES SPRINTER 416CDI AMBULANCE
58 REG FORD TRANSIT TOURNEO CONNECT 1.8 HDI
07 REG RENAULT MASTER MM33 2.2TD
2008 57 REG VAUXHALL VIVARO LH28 2.0 TD
LWB, Macneillie van conversion, SLD, 2 rear high back seats, Ferno Falcon stretcher & locks, stretcher lift, blue light bars and siren, very high spec, low miles 65-85,000 miles only, choice of 8.
Manual gearbox, CD, electric windows & mirrors, A/C, twin side loading doors, 2 high back seat in rear, single passenger seat front, cut out floor, air suspension, fold down ramp, high spec, 24,000 miles.
Manual gearbox, high roof, Warner bus conversion, PAS, side loading door, electric side step, 7 high back seats plus 2 x w/chair, Webasto heater, Unwin Innotrax tracked floor, Ricon tail lift, 23,480 miles.
Manual gearbox, hi roof, O & H conversion, PAS, side loading door, side step, 4 high back seats plus 1 x w/chair, Eberspacher heater, Unwin tracked floor, Ricon tail lift, 30,280 miles only.
2005/06 M ERCEDES SPRINTER 413 CDI UVK T REKA
06 REG RENAULT MASTER SM 33 2.2TD
2008 08 REG IVECO 50c15 IRIS BUS 2.8 TD
08 REG VW TRANSPORTER BLUEBIRD T UCANA LIBRARY/OFFICE/COMS UNIT
Auto gearbox, LWB, PAS, N/S/F electric power door, 16 high back removable seats on Unwin tracking, Eberspacher, Ratcliff underfloor tail lift, ex-midland council, COIFʼd, choice of 3.
Manual gearbox, high roof, O & H conversion, PAS, side loading door, side step, 6 high back seats plus 1 x w/chair, Eberspacher heater, air con, Unwin tracked floor, Ricon tail lift, 21253.441 miles.
Auto Agile gearbox, Irisbus conversion, electric windows, power front entry plug door, 16 high back removable seats with all age seat belts, Rratcliff tail lift, COIF, new PSV MOT, only 45,000 kms.
2.8 TD, automatic transmission, PAS, power side loading door, n/s wind out awning, wheelchair accessible, storage lockers, heating, lots more, low kms.
06 REG RENAULT MASTER MM33 2.2TD
56 REG RENAULT MASTER MM33 2.5TD
06 REG RENAULT MASTER SL 33 2.2TD
53 REG MERCEDES SPRINTER 416 CDI
Automatic gearbox, high roof, SCW conversion, PAS, side loading door, side step, 7 high back seats plus 1 x w/chair, Eberspacher heater, Unwin tracked floor, Ricon tail lift, 11,831 miles.
Manual gearbox, high roof, Warnerbus conversion, PAS, side loading door, side step, sat nav, 6 high back seats plus 1 x w/chair, air con, Unwin Innotrax floor, Ricon tail lift, 14,300 miles only.
Manual gearbox, low roof, O & H conversion, PAS, side loading door, side step, 4 high back seats plus 1 x w/chair, Eberspacher heater, Unwin tracked floor, Ricon tail lift, 17,491 miles.
4x4 ambulance, LWB, Wilker box body conversion, full air con/climate, side loading door, 3 high back seats, Falcon stretcher, PLS stretcher lift, very high spec, one owner ex Air Force, only 25,950 kms.
2004 54 REG IVECO 50c13 IRIS BUS 2.8 TURBO DIESEL
07 REG FORD TRANSIT 350 2.4TD
06 REG RENAULT MASTER LM35 2.5TD
60 REG RENAULT MASTER SM33 2.5TD
Manual, LWB, PAS, factory conversion, electric windows, cruise control, low front entry slam door, 16 high back seats with all age seat belts, full air con, exlocal authority, COIF, new PSV MOT, only 80,341 kms.
Long wheelbase, high roof, 6 seater crew van, PAS, SLD, rear partion for storage & tools in rear, Eberspacher heater, overhead storage, microwave, hot water box, wash facilties, 27,000 miles only.
Manual, PAS, LWB, PTS ambulance conversion, SLD, 6 rear high back seats, Ferno stretcher locks, Ricon stretcher lift , Eberspacher heater, Unwin tracking, exNHS, 36,100 miles only.
Manual gearbox, high roof, Advance conversion, PAS, side loading door, side step, 6 high back seats plus 2 x w/chair, heater, air con, Unwin tracked floor, Ricon tail lift, 2,060 miles only.
2009 09 REG VAUXHALL MOVANO LM39 2.5TD
54 REG MERCEDES SPRINTER 411 CDI
2009 59 REG VAUXHALL VIVARO SL28 2.0 TD
07 REG MERCEDES SPRINTER 313 CDI 2.2
Manual, high roof, PAS, LWB, new conversion, side loading door, AVS side step, 14 high back seats, AMF m2 fully tracked floor, new Ricon tail lift, tacho fitted, only 6,646 miles.
Tiptronic gearbox, Euromotive PSC bus conversion, front entry slam door with low entry step, 16 x high back removable seats, Eberspacher, ex local authority, COIF'd, tacho fitted, only 66,780 kms.
Manual gearbox, low roof, O & H conversion, PAS, twin side loading door, side step, 4 high back seats plus 1 x w/chair, modified low floor, electric winch & fold out ramp, 15,491 miles.
6 speed manual, a/c, Frank Guy conversion, side loading door, 8 x high back Cogent reclining removable seats, tracked floor, PLS in board tail lift, 34,500 miles only, choice of two.
07 REG RENAULT MASTER MM33 2.5TD
07 REG RENAULT MASTER LH35 2.5TD
07 REG MERCEDES SPRINTER 313CDI 2.2
09 PEUGEOT EXPERT TEPEE 1.9 HDI
Manual gearbox, high roof, Warnerbus conversion, PAS, side loading door, side step, sat nav, 6 high back seats plus 1 x w/chair, Webasto, Unwin innotrax floor, Ricon tail lift, 14,300 miles only.
LWB, hi roof, multi purpose office/comms unit, PAS, SLD with AVS side step, awning, 3 x workstations, amber light, bars front and rear, overhead storage lockers, heating, generator, microwave, tv, only 1,500 miles.
6 speed manual, a/c, Frank Guy crew van, side loading door, 8 x high back Cogent reclining removable seats, tracked floor, large storage area ideal airport shuttle bus, 34,500 miles only, choice of two.
Manual 5 speed gearbox, PAS, CD player, air con, twin side loading doors, 2 high back seat in rear, double passenger seat front, cut out floor, fold down ramp, blue metallic silver, alloy wheels, 14,932 miles.
Filler NEW copy
10/3/12
09:30
Page 1
3 WEEKS 4 WEEK FREE
BUY GET A
PRICES INCLUDE :
TH
• Design Service • Web Advert • Full Colour
WHEN YOU ADVERTISE IN
COACH&BUSMARKET T E K R A M S U B & nd sell a H y u C b o A t e CO – the plac
7 1733 29324 0 ll a c t s ju £30 as little as r o f s e g a p e on these To advertis
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TO BOOK YOUR ADVERTISEMENT CONTACT:
JADE CASSIDY
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10cm x 1
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01733 293247 jade.cassidy@rouncymedia.co.uk
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.co.uk uncymedia ro @ y id ss ail jade.ca 3247 or em 9 2 3 3 7 1 0 y on Jade Cassid Telephone
VEHICLE SALES | PRODUCTS & SERVICES | MARKET | VEHICLE SALES | PRODUCTS & SERVICES | MARKET | VEHICLE SALES | PRODUCTS & SERVICES
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58 | COACH & BUS WEEK | June 13, 2012
COACH&BUSCLASSIFIED AUCTIONS
ENGINES
Crewe Engines Ltd MERCEDES ENGINE SPECIALISTS
WE ALSO RECONDITION ALL MAKES OF BUS & COACH ENGINES
Direct from the UK’s No.1 since 1975 Call now for a quote or more information
01270 526333
Federation of Engine Re-Manufacturers
www.creweengines.co.uk
VOLVO - CUMMINS - SCANIA MAN - DAF - IVECO FULL FITTING FACILITIES
BUILDINGS
CHECKPOINTS
HEAVY DUTY STEEL BUILDINGS
Bus Workshops - Secure Storage Supplied any width, any length Building to BS5590 - Doors high enough for Double Deckers - Finance available For further information phone
TO PURCHASE CHECKPOINT/DUSTITE loose wheelnut indicators or to locate your nearest stockist:
BLUELINE BUILDINGS 01709 578333 anytime
www.checkpoint-safety.com
CRAIG TILSLEY
ENGINES
Tel: 01782 791524 or 01782 791527
Fax: 01782 791316
Moorfields Industrial Estate Cotes Heath, Stoke-on-Trent ST21 6QY
Tel: 01524 271200
Suppliers of Reconditioned DAF MAN MERC, VOLVO SCANIA, GARDNER LEYLAND, CUMMINS ENGINES CYLINDER HEADS CRANKSHAFTS CRANKCASES CAMSHAFTS PUMPS ETC
COACH&BUSCLASSIFIED
Looking for a great deal to promote your products and services? Contact Jade Cassidy now for details of our current offers : 01733 293247 jade.cassidy@rouncymedia.co.uk Coach & Bus Week – the only paid-for weekly magazine in the bus and coach industry – there’s no comparison!
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June 13, 2012 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 59
COACH&BUSCLASSIFIED GARAGE EQUIPMENT
TICKETING
Commercial Garage Equipment Brake Testers
Inspection Pits
Commercial Lifts
Mobile Lifts
Tel: 07538 218194 www.commercialgarageequipment.co.uk Email: sales@commercialgarageequipment.co.uk
SPECIAL OFFERS
Don’t forget to say that you saw it in
Specialists in Used Commercial Garage Equipment BWS 0117 953 0381 www.bwsequip.co.uk
email: bwsequip@hotmail.com
INSURANCE
TRAINING
ESSENTIAL PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE SUPPLIES
REGISTRATIONS G £750 44 NXA 80 HXE 99 HXY ALZ 303 AXZ 88 ECR 767 IIG 89 RXI 85 YIL 71
DRIVERS DAILY DEFECT BOOKS, MAINTENANCE WALL PLANNERS, SAFETY INSPECTION PADS, TACHOS, DRIVERS WALLETS ETC. QUALITY APPROVED PRODUCTS, FAST DELIVERY
SPEEDY REGISTRATIONS CO LTD G ‘Buy with confidence – CNDA Member’
£350 £99 £99 £50 JBZ 484 HIG 5338 MNZ 1195 CXZ 4471 KBZ 505 HIG 5339 ONZ 1180 CXZ 4472 NUI 636 IIG 7764 REZ 3369 DFZ 4697 NUI 737 IIG 7765 RUI 2117 DFZ 4698 PXI 494 JIG 8894 SEZ 5766 DRZ 7321 RBZ 696 JIG 8895 SUI 8836 DRZ 7322 RDZ 545 KIG 5113 SUI 8837 IFZ 8350 SXI 292 KIG 5114 TJZ 1116 IFZ 8360 UIW 626 MJZ 6749 TJZ 1119 JFZ 8377 We Buy for Cash, also Part Exchange
Tel: (028) 6638 7124 Fax: (028) 6638 7771
Millwood, Lisbellaw, Co. Fermanagh, N. Ireland BT94 5HQ
£50 JFZ 8378 JIG 8947 JIG 8948 KIG 5158 KIG 5159 RNZ 2214 RNZ 2215 TUI 5755 TUI 5756
CALL ORDERLINE: 01329 280280 Email: info@wardint.co.uk
DRIVER CPC PERIODIC TRAINING AVAILABLE NATIONWIDE
Ward International Consulting Ltd 70 Marks Tey Road, Fareham, Hants PO14 3UR www.wardint.co.uk
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60 | COACH & BUS WEEK | June 13, 2012
COACH&BUSCLASSIFIED TYRES
• Tyre fitting machine now available •
JUNE SPECIALS 205/75R 205/75R 215/75R 215/75R 245/70R 265/70R 265/70R 275/70R
17.5 BUDGET STEER 17.5 BARUM STEER 17.5 BUDGET STEER 17.5 BARUM STEER 19.5 BUDGET STEER 19.5 BUDGET STEER 19.5 BARUM STEER 22.5 BUDGET STEER
£102.00 £132.00 £99.00 £132.00 £128.00 £136.00 £185.00 £175.00
Remould and premium tyres price on request Free delivery on 4 tyres or more We have more tyres in stock – please give us a call for quotes
275/70R 275/80R 295/80R 295/80R 315/80R 315/80R 11R22.5 305/75R
22.5 BARUM STEER 22.5 BUDGET STEER 22.5 BUDGET STEER 22.5 MIDRANGE 22.5 BUDGET STEER 22.5 MIDRANGE BUDGET STEER 24.5 GOODYEAR NEW
ew Number N 01684 560029 Adam : 07841 239411 Mark : 07545 735303
www.tdtyres.com
TYRE EQUIPMENT
£245.00 £190.00 £178.00 from £245.00 £198.00 from £255.00 £175.00 £550.00
All prices subject to VAT and availability.
VEHICLE SPARES
Trevor Wigley & Son Bus Ltd
TW FULLY LICENSED END OF LIFE VEHICLE CENTRE
TW REDUNDANT AND SCRAP VEHICLES TAKEN TW PROFESSIONAL, EFFICIENT SERVICE TW ALL REQUIREMENTS CATERED FOR TW VARIOUS SPARES AVAILABLE TW CONTACT US FOR FULL AVAILABILITY
Call 01226 723147 Night Service 01226 716479 Fax 01226 700199 Email wigleys@btconnect.com
www.twigley.com
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Seen something funny? Send it to gareth.evans@rouncymedia.co.uk, fax 0845 2802927 or write to: Last Stop, Coach & Bus Week, 3 The Office Village, Cygnet Park, Forder Way, Hampton, Peterborough PE7 8GX
Friday (June 1): Meet German family friends at Peterborough Railway Station. The couple, with their two young sons aged four and eight, are a joy to be with as ever. Show them round the cathedral and treat them to lunch, before they catch the train west to Gobowen. My fiancée and I drive ‘back home’ to my native Welsh borderland, where we spend the next part of the week. Eight people in my parents house means it resembles a B&B.
Arriva Yorkshire, well known for its marketing initiatives, has released a video with 110 suggestions of things passengers can do on the bus. These options range from the mundane, such as reading or catching up on a podcast, to some more unusual ideas, like planning world domination. The video uses real Arriva passengers on the 110 route from Wakefield to Leeds. We wondered how much the route 110 drivers would appreciate the suggestion for passengers to sing “the wheels on the bus go round and round”… The video can be viewed on the ArrivaUKBus Youtube channel, found at www.youtube.com/watch?v=l1nzVSlnbvk
All aboard the library bus A London primary school is so crowded it is using an old doubledecker bus as a library. Teachers at Chatsworth Primary School in Hounslow were forced to turn their original library into extra classrooms because of the huge demand for places. The school was without a library for two years until a former parent who worked for First donated a
Dilbert
decommissioned vehicle to the school. First resprayed the bus and delivered it to the school playground, where it has been fitted with custommade shelves and turned into a library. The librarian sits behind the steering wheel in the driver’s seat to check out the children’s books, while pupils can climb to the top deck to sit and read. About 33 children can use the library at once, and teachers say it has made every child at the school excited about reading. Ellie Brown, a Year 6 teacher at the school, said: “We know that in the financial crisis many other schools are being forced to make
cuts just like we are, but we want to share our wonderful new resource and help inspire others to find an alternative beyond bricks and mortar.” The school spent about £6,000 refurbishing the bus, with electrical wiring, lighting, a computer, seats and shelves. Miss Brown said it was testament to the savings made by recycling, and to the phenomenal work done by volunteers at the bus company and by parents and staff at the school. “If you compare that to the cost of £130,000 — the average cost of a new classroom or working space in a school, it’s amazing,” she added.
Wednesday: Rise early to see off the Braun family. Drive down to Lynton, the start of a three-night mini break. Our B&B turns out to be delightful. Thursday: The weather is atrocious but we’re stopped in our sightseeing tracks when a tyre punctures at the Valley of the Rocks. Don’t change the wheel myself as we’re stuck on a bank & the wheel is also too flat so have to use a trolley jack, which I don’t have. Wait two and three-quarter hours for the RAC. Friday: Spend an enjoyable morning at the Exmoor Museum, before exploring Lynton itself. Grab lunch at the Lynton & Barnstaple Railway. The cakes at Woody Bay station tea room remain highly recommended. By late afternoon, the rain has finally stopped but the gusty wind retains its force. Venture down to Lynmouth on the Cliff Railway and enjoy a walk round the shops and harbour. Saturday: Discover a delightful deli up the road from the coach park in Lynton. With time not exactly of the essence, enjoy a return trip from Williton to Minehead on the West Somerset Railway. Snap some bus pics on Minehead seafront. The M5 is busy as expected on a Saturday – I’m reminded of why dad always liked to be on the road at the crack of dawn when we had family holidays in the West Country. Return to Peterborough in time for our evening meal. Back to reality. www.coachandbusweek.com
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62 | COACH & BUS WEEK | June 13, 2012
RECRUITMENT
Deadlines Booking: Monday 5.00pm Full artwork: Monday 5.00pm
Lundstedt gets President and CEO role at Scania Martin Lundstedt has been appointed President and Chief Executive Officer of Scania AB. He takes up his new position on September 1, 2012 and succeeds Leif Östling, who becomes a member of the Board of Management of Volkswagen AG. Changes will also be made in Scania’s Executive Board on the same date. Martin Lundstedt has a Master of Science and is currently Executive Vice President and Head of Franchise and Factory Sales, Scania. He joined the company in 1992 and has held various senior positions including head of Scania’s
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Coach & Bus Week’s well-established recruitment portfolio attracts candidates across sales, marketing and management, delivering not just quantity but quality candidates, providing exceptional value for money. In addition to our unrivalled print-based product, at no extra cost recruitment adverts are also automatically placed online at www.coachandbusweek.com, where they remain on view until a position’s closing date. Coach & Bus Week and www.coachandbusweek.com combine to create the ultimate recruitment solution, guaranteeing your vacancy is seen by every jobseeker that matters from sales agents to board level. To get your vacancy seen by quality candidates, call Ian Gillis on 01733 293484 or email ian.gillis@rouncymedia.co.uk www.coachandbusweek.com
People.indd 62
ian.gillis@rouncymedia.co.uk
Per Hallberg, currently Head of Research and Development, Purchasing, has been appointed Head of Production and Logistics. In his new position, he succeeds Anders Nielsen, who has been appointed Chief Executive Officer of MAN Truck & Bus AG. New member of the Executive Board and Head of Research
& Development, succeeding Per Hallberg, will be Dr. Harald Ludanek. Harald Ludanek has a Doctorate in Engineering and is currently Head of Vehicle Development at Volkswagen AG. Henrik Henriksson, has been appointed new member of the Executive Board and Head of Franchise and Factory Sales, succeeding Martin Lundstedt. Henrik Henriksson has a Bachelor of Science and is currently Senior Vice President, Trucks, Scania. In a new position on the Executive Board, Andrea Fuder, has been appointed Head of Purchasing. Andrea Fuder has a Master of Science and Business Administration and is currently Head of Group Purchasing Interior at Volkswagen AG. In an additional new position on the Executive Board, Kent Conradson has been appointed Head of Human Resources. He has a Bachelor of Science and is currently Senior Vice President, Human Resources Support, Scania.
People 1st, the sector skills council for hospitality, passenger transport, travel and tourism, has announced the appointment of Neil Fletcher to a newly created executive role within the organisation. Neil Fletcher, the former Head of European Training for Honda, joins People 1st as Client Relationship and Business Development Director. He has a wealth of experience, including leadership of
the Honda UK Institute and German Academy Centres of Excellence. Neil said: “I am looking forward to working closely with employers in our industries to ensure People 1st can help them now and into the future. Developing the skills that employers need is central to People 1st’s function and is not only a cause close to my heart, but also vital for the future of the businesses in our sector,” Neil explained. Brian Wisdom, CEO at People 1st, said: “We’re extremely proud to attract high calibre people such as Neil, who is joining People 1st at an exciting time. He will play a key role in our plan to deliver a skills legacy that will benefit the entire sector.”
The Go-Ahead Group has appointed Samantha Hodder as Group Corporate Affairs Director. Samantha has been with Go-Ahead since November 2001 and has held a number of roles in the business, including Head of Communications at train operator Southern and Communications Director for the Group’s rail division. Before joining Go-Ahead, she worked in communications
at Buckingham Palace and the Department for Education and Employment. She has also worked in local government and began her career as a local newspaper reporter. David Brown, Group CEO, said: “Samantha has been a key member of the Go-Ahead team for a number of years. Her vast knowledge of the Group and extensive experience make her an invaluable member of my executive team.”
Martin Lundstedt will take up his new role September 1, 2012 industrial operations in France from 2001 to 2005 and Senior Vice President, Trucks until 2007, when he assumed his current position. In the Executive Board of Scania, in addition to Martin Lundstedt, Jan Ytterberg, Chief Financial Officer, and Christian Levin, Head of Sales and Services Management, remain in their current positions.
Contact Ian Gillis 01733 293484
People 1st appoints new executive
Hodder appointed Corporate Affairs Director for Go-Ahead
11/06/2012 21:25
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