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Issue 010

Contents CONTACT DETAILS PO Box 3294 Erina, NSW 2250 www.truckandbus.net.au Enquiries Tel: 0411 099 091 Follow us on Twitter #truckandbusnews Managing Editor/Publisher Geoff Paradise gparadise@truckandbus.net.au Editor Fabian Cotter fabian@truckandbus.net.au Art Director Luke Melbourne www.groeningdesigns.com.au Advertising Sales Bruce Williams 0418 349 555 bruce@overdrivemedia.com.au Contributing Writers Chris Smith, David Meredith, Allen Matzel Contributing Photographers Mark Bean, Cristian Brunelli, David Meredith, Chris Smith Coach & Bus magazine is published under licence by the Truck Power Media Group Pty Ltd six times a year and is distributed to bus and coach operators, business professionals and the industry throughout Australia.

All material contained herein including text, photography, design elements and format are copyright and cannot be reproduced by any means without the written permission of the publisher. Truck Power Media Group is a member of the Copyright Agency Limited (1800 066 844).

Regulars

04 06 08 16 18 62 63 64

Driver’s Seat

Editor Cotter reckons there’s huge scope for mini low-floor buses to be used in our public transport system and beyond. And with a healthy range now in Oz and more soon, it’s interesting times ahead.

Fare Go

Publisher Paradise can see how a reduction in the number of Aussie truck industry shows mirrors the need for what many in the bus industry are calling for to happen. A prickly topic, for sure.

Up Front

We wrap up the key local and international bus and coach news that affects us as a global industry and where we are heading.

Daimler’s mini-bus push into OZ!

COMING SOON: Mercedes-Benz has announced a slew of nippy Sprinter variants for ‘small bus’ applications in Australia, and it’s all part of the Daimler Buses re-branding initiative.

Different Species

COMING SOON: Optare’s ultra-low-floor Bonito mini-bus looks ideal for certain market segments in Oz and could well end up the darling of them all. We cop a squiz.

Working Wheels

The latest Holden VF Ute might just be the last of its iconic breed so you’ll need to get one now before it’s too late! We took one for a quick spin to see what’s what.

Hot Stuff

If you are past Lego and Meccano then these trick gadgets on the go are hard to resist. You may not need them, but you’ll certainly want them. Or is that vice-versa?

Money

Financial guru Paul Clitheroe warns of how bank and card fees could be the hidden blow to your yearly budgeting projections and that they need to be nipped in the bud. Now!

Technical

34

Lights, Camera, Actia!

FUTURE PROOF: UK company Actia has a who’s who list of clients for its telematics systems and advanced electronics and communications gizmos for buses. Geoff Paradise got exclusive access.

Editorial contributions are welcome for consideration. Contact the Editor or Publisher for guidelines, fees and level of interest.

All unsolicited manuscripts must be accompanied by a stamp, addressed envelope for their return. We will not be held responsible for material supplied electronically.

Proudly printed in Australia

Single copy price $6.60 incl. GST

16

28

32

51

coach&bus 56 “...flexibility of specification to corner all aspects of each market.”

Features

20 28 32

Optimus Prime

42

Dirty Work

COVERSTORY: We grab an exclusive first drive of Volgren’s new Optimus low-floor route bus, which is spearheading its product line into the future.

BusVic 2013 Show

EVENT: The annual Melbourne Maintenance Conference and Exhibition covered and range of topics and featured some great speakers, entertainment and bus industry exhibitors.

Funky Town

FIRST GLIMPSE! Hino’s got two very interesting buses for evaluation in Australia: the Melpha school/charter bus and the endearing Poncho mini low-floor. We exclusively check them out.

OPERATOR: Omnibus is going great sticking its bodies onto Isuzu chassis that are purpose built for the tough mining market. West Oz’s David Meredith takes an in-depth look.

46

Crown Coaches

51

60 Minutes With…

56

Going The Distance

OPERATOR: Melbourne’s Crown Coaches has been doing good things there and around Australia for years, and with a high-tech fleet and strong work ethic it’s doing good deeds, day in, day out.

INTERVIEW: Jan Gill is spokesperson for Belt Up For Safety, an action group with strong views about seatbelts on buses for kids and the need to make this happen sooner than later. We have a chat.

FIRST GLIMPSE: Volgren’s new Optimus has a sister, too – the Endura school/charter/mining bus is a facelifted beauty that can be specc’d up for a range of customer applications. We take a look.

004Driver’s Seat

Fabian Cotter “…a saving to be had as passenger numbers diminish and smaller buses used?”

I

mean, it’s probably just me again, of course, but trying to encourage people

open the doors as it was ‘under test’ probably helped as well. Yep, I should have just driven

to leave cars at home or help them save money by avoiding blatantly exorbitant taxi fares for even short distances these days on nights out just isn’t working.

or taxied it that night, but oh no I figured there was no point being a transport journalist without putting my ticket where mouth was.

Another transit information call, on hold,

Example? There I was bopping along on the platform of my local train station about 1am – ‘karaoking’ to myself Paul Young’s 1983

on hold. The lady confirms it wasn’t a train symbol I saw on my phone screen, that I needed to catch the Nightride bus (against

psycho-eyes-looking guy and now me. “It’s just a short trip,” I thought. “I can do this.”

And after electing to stare ‘crazy eyes’ back

cover song Wherever I May Lay My Hat (badly, I must add) – awaiting a train to take me a few stops away to a favoured pub. I attempt

the grain towards the City – who does that?), and that if I had bought a return ticket it would be valid on the bus – but not the single? A

at the Hannibal Lecter type for a bit, so as to convince him I might rob him before he robbed me, we reached a kind of mutually

to sing in a band the odd weekend (Hold The Phone, insert gratuitous plug on facebook here), we’d had a great gig, I got home and should have slept but decided to nip out locally instead – and why not? I Googled the train timetable, didn’t notice the difference in the small symbols indicating train or bus (my dodgy eyesight, you see), raced down and bought my single train ticket from the machine and waited for the 1.07am train. And waited.

And waited.

By 2.00am, with the electronic boards now saying the next train would be a further 3.5odd hours away, I kind of knew something was up. I’m a bit cluey like that, you see. The one empty ‘ghost’ train that did teasingly stop at 1.30-ish but with signs on it not to

sign on the machine stating this IN ENGLISH would great, don’t you think?

Down the road I walked, ‘Bear Grylls like’ over bushes and along the footpath looking for the Nightride bus stop. I had a better chance of finding a few more Dead Sea Scrolls. The local 7-11 store attendant vaguely pointed me in the right direction, he hoped – and so did I. Found it eventually, the smallest dark sign ever.

The bus arrived on time. Yippee! Now we were winning. Better, he accepted my ‘single’ ticket. Legend! If I were a tourist right now I might just me forgiving the nation I had come to visit and spend my hard-earned in.

There were just four of us in the bus. The driver, an elderly lady up front, some backseat

exclusive truce. Ah, progress…

The bus was tidy and the driver kept good pace. I was happy. It’s now 2.30am and I’m disturbingly examining bus interiors and road handling … but I was happy. Until then it struck me: what a waste of space! And fuel.

And tax payer money. Assumedly…

Three weeks later and I’m sitting in a little lowfloor Hino bus called the Poncho, brought in to Oz for evaluation purposes (see pages 32-37) and I’m like ‘this would have been ideal THAT night, with only those few people to transport and fuel and emissions saved. Heck, make it something like a Poncho hybrid or electric and let’s really get the show on the road.

And so whilst full-sized buses might still be needed to shift the masses from a city to home from the start of the night, is there

Mini-buses like the Hino Poncho would make ideal travel for very late night bus travel rather than 50+ seaters!

a saving to be had as passenger numbers diminish and smaller buses can be used? And if buses are travelling in some big cycle from Point A to Point Z and everything between, perhaps there’s something in smaller ‘cycles’ and routes being drawn up where smaller and more fuel-efficient buses can be used instead? With so many coming onto the market from companies like Mercedes-Benz with its Sprinter variants, Optare’s Bonito and now the UK’s Bluebird Orion Plus, they would be well worth the look at, I reckon.

This issue we get up close and personal with Volgren’s dynamic duo - the new Optimus low-floor and the Endura charter bus - we check out Hino’s Japanese-spec Melpha school/charter, we see how an Isuzuchassis’d mining bus is doing, plus we speak with Jan Gill about seatbelts on buses after getting techie with Actia’s Eco Drive. All good stuff, so ‘get it india!’

See ya’ll at the Sydney show. Until the next thrilling instalment…

OPTIMUS

LOW FLOOR ROUTE BUS

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Volgren. Built smart. Built safe.

For more information please contact Sales & Marketing +61 3 9791 4255 www.volgren.com.au

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Global Technology

006Fare Go

Geoff Paradise “If a bus manufacturer or importer wants to do two shows a year then that is their prerogative.”

Pic: Fabian Cotter

T

wo months ago, in our sister magazine Transport & Trucking Today,

their trucking counterparts - too many shows requiring too much money, time and resources.

I raised the issue of there being too many truck shows in Australia.

From May this year to May next year there will be three: Brisbane, Perth and Melbourne. Of

The Australian Bus + Coach Show is every two years, as is the QBIC event. The odd one out here is BusVic’s Annual Maintenance Conference that is propped up by bus

those, Brisbane and Perth have come and gone.

Of the three, Brisbane is the best by a country mile. I have advocated for it to be

exhibitors who spend plenty of money to be there, we’ve been informed.

As it’s an annual event Moonee Valley is

renamed the Australian Truck Show. Perth is a world away. The exhibitors in Perth are mainly dealers who receive support from the

hanging out in the wind on this. Sydney this year, then back in 2015. QBIC next year, back in 2016. BusVic’s shindig is every year so on

manufacturers they represent.

Melbourne is a combined truck and trailer show and, in my opinion, offers little to the manufacturers who spend hundreds of thousands of dollars each just to be there.

Since I wrote that editorial there has been a number of big-name withdrawals from the Melbourne event. Truck and trailer manufacturers are saying they just can’t justify the massive spend so frequently. They would prefer one show every two years.

In roughly the same 12-month period there will also be three bus shows: BusVic’s Maintenance Conference at Moonee Valley, The 2013 Australian Bus + Coach Show in Sydney next month and next year the QBIC/ BIC event in Queensland.

I have learnt that a group of bus

that basis there are two shows a year.

You don’t have to be Einstein to figure out this scenario.

BusVic can hold its ground – and it has every right to. If a bus manufacturer or importer wants to do two shows a year then that is their prerogative. It’s a free country.

But if the groundswell develops into a tsunami of resistance then don’t expect much in the way of bus and coach exhibitors at future Moonee Valley events. Some didn’t go this year citing cost as a factor, preferring to save their time, money and resources for Sydney. Others for different reasons we hear.

The venue itself is another problem with some exhibitors. They think it is archaic and doesn’t do their products justice, although many won’t go on record and say so for fear

manufacturers have banded together to get some unity on this issue. They have raised

of offending someone.

The Australian Bus + Coach Show and the

their concerns with the peak body, the Bus

QBIC event are held in world-class facilities.

Industry Council.

Something has to give because this group of

Well, in Sydney’s case this year it will be, moving from Rosehill to The Dome at Olympic Park - a

sure. The bus and coach industry wants to reduce its costs for shows and the state organisations need the revenue.

manufacturers are asking the same question and faced with the same financial pressure as

major step forward.

Moonee Valley Racecourse reminds me

I’m afraid that only economic forces will sort this one out - and not one individual.

of the Ekka in Brisbane, for many years the venue for the Brisbane Truck Show. The Ekka was rubbish. Nothing but a conglomeration of old cow sheds and horse stables with a couple of pavilions in between. Dark, cold and ill-lit in most places.

The truck industry deserved better (and they got it by moving to the Convention Centre on the banks of the Brisbane River) and so does the bus and coach industry.

The million-dollar question is: can the industry as whole be mature enough to agree to one show a year at alternating venues? Sydney 2013, Brisbane (Gold Coast) in 2014, Melbourne in 2015 and then around we go again?

Or could the BIC take control and, just like the International Olympic Committee (IOC), appoint a host city every year?

The thing is, the three shows are held by separate state associations and the revenue they generate goes a long way to sustaining their individual costs and overheads year-onyear, granted. For each of the eastern states to wait for three years to be able to hold a show would put enormous financial strain on their organisation and the work they do.

It’s an unenviable predicament, that’s for

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UpFront

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ROAD WIRELESSLY CHARGES BUSES who led the team behind the scheme at Korea Advanced Institute of Science and

Basically, a device fitted to the bottom of the buses receives power from

to some of their bus stops to allow the vehicles to top up power while drivers

– be it all at monumental cost it must be assumed - a South Korean road has been developed that can ‘charge’ an electric bus as it drives over it, without need to

Technology (KAIST).

“This is certainly a turning point for OLEV to become more commercialised and widely accepted for mass

the road using a technology called Shaped Magnetic Field In Resonance.

It’s claimed electric cables installed under the road are used to generate

take short breaks, it’s reported.

Engineering firms Arup and Mitsui have set up a joint venture to roll out a similar scheme in Milton Keynes this autumn.

stop to ‘plug in to anything’, it’s claimed.

As reported recently by science and industry-news website www.eurekalert. org and www.bbc.co.uk, the two OLEV

transportation.”

However, the idea is not without its critics – and justifiably so given the implications of its implementation,

electromagnetic fields, which are picked up by a coil inside the device and converted into electricity. The receiving equipment can be up to 17cm (6.7in)

Utah State University is also testing a prototype campus bus, which it says can achieve greater than 90 per cent power transmission efficiency with a distance of

buses fitted with the wireless charging technology are in use in the South Korean city of Gumi, which has ‘switched on’ a

regardless of the merits of the idea as a whole. Some experts warn that the costs involved in installing the equipment

above the road’s surface.

According to the researchers, they can transfer 20kHz and 100kW (136hp)

6in (15cm) between the pick-up coil and road surface at certain stops.

Utah State Aggie bus A Utah State

road that can recharge electric vehicles as they drive over it.

The project’s developer says the 12km (7.5 miles) route is the first of its kind in the world, and as far as Coach & Bus magazine knows – it is!

In theory, it means vehicles fitted with compatible equipment do not need to stop to recharge and can also be fitted with smaller than normal batteries, it’s claimed. The magnitude of what this potentially means for global transport solutions is almost unfathomable.

Two public buses are already using the technology and there are plans to add 10 more by 2015.

“It’s quite remarkable that we succeeded with the OLEV (Online Electric Vehicle) project, so that buses are offering public transportation services to passengers,” said Dong-Ho Cho,

meant it was less practical than other schemes which involved vehicles wirelessly charging at specific locations or using overhead cables.

“There is clearly a lot of potential for this technology for public transport applications, but for private electric vehicles the cost of fitting all roads with such systems may be prohibitive,” said Dr Paul Nieuwenhuis from the Centre for Automotive Industry Research at Cardiff University, Britian.

Also, researchers say the electromagnetic fields involved do not pose a health risk, the reality of which would probably take years of test anyway without any conclusive results, such as with the use of mobile telephones.

The Korean project runs from the train station in the town of Gumi, in the south of the country, to the In-dong district.

of electricity at up to an 85 per cent maximum power transmission efficiency rate. It’s claimed the power strips involved only need to be placed under 5-15 per cent of the road, meaning that only certain sections need to be dug up and replaced.

And as vehicles do not need to stock up on energy before making their journey, the batteries involved can be three times smaller than would otherwise be needed, they say. This reduces the weight of the vehicles helping reduce the amount of carbon dioxide emitted when generating the power required, it’s stated.

Although the OLEV project is the first working scheme to power vehicles on the move, there are other inductive charging projects elsewhere. Torino, Italy and Utrecht, the Netherlands have also fitted wireless charging equipment

University spin-off company is testing a wireless-charged bus on its campus.

There are also moves to transfer the concept to cars. In London, computer chip maker Qualcomm is testing a wireless charging tech it calls Halo, which it has fitted to Citroen and Rolls Royce vehicles, but again the idea is only to install power transmission pads at certain spots.

One expert said it was likely to be a long time before South Korea’s more ambitious design became commonplace.

“I think we are decades away from even thinking about a nationwide network of electrified roads,” said Ashvin Chotai, managing director of the Intelligence Automotive Asia consultancy.

“For now, it appears to be more of a showcase technology than something which has the potential to be commercialised.”

pic: KAIST

IN WHAT MAY truly transform all forms of road transport in future around the world

008 www.truckandbus.net.au

Seatbelts on Regional Buses - Some THE NSW GOVERNMENT will invest more than $200 million to install seatbelts

not only school routes, but also regular bus services during the day, will not be

issue and once again it is the NSW Liberals and Nationals who not only do

with stakeholders to improve student safety around school bus zones; rolling

on buses dedicated to school runs in rural and regional NSW, Minister for Transport Gladys Berejiklian and Minister for Roads and Ports Duncan

included in the programme.

“The NSW Government established the School Bus Safety Community Advisory Committee in April 2011 to examine

the hard work but deliver for the people of NSW.” Other recommendations made by the committee that Transport for NSW

out communication strategies to identify, share and promote good school bus safety practice.

The new initiative does not please

Gay announced, recently.

The commitment comes as the NSW Government today announced it will adopt the majority of the recommendations made by the Independent School Bus Safety Community Advisory Committee’s inquiry into school bus safety in rural and regional NSW. For the first time in NSW, seatbelts will progressively be installed and standing phased out on almost 1700 dedicated school services over 10 years, starting this financial year. The rollout of seatbelts is estimated to cost around $208 million over the period.

More than 60,000 students across regional and rural NSW travel on these

school bus safety in rural and regional NSW and I want to thank the committee members and chair Carolyn Walsh for all their hard work,” Ms Berejiklian said.

“Today the NSW Government is making a substantial financial commitment to addressing an issue, which is so important to communities in regional and rural areas.”

Mr Gay said the Government was taking a significant step in addressing school bus safety and noted the Government had also committed to road safety initiatives as part of its response.

“Our plan will see almost 1700 buses which only run school services in rural and regional areas fitted with seatbelts over the next decade, which is an

will adopt to improve regional and rural school bus safety include: regular monitoring of new and emerging vehicle safety technologies and where necessary and appropriate, encouraging their use through regional bus contracts; a new Student Code of Conduct to ensure parents, students and bus operators know their responsibilities when it comes to wearing seatbelts; encouraging schools to use buses fitted with seatbelts for excursions and other charters; developing guidelines which outline responsibilities for rural and regional bus operators to encourage students to wear seatbelts when fitted; developing a standard for designing rural bus stops to improve

everyone, though. Jan Gill, spokesperson for the Belt Up For Safety organisation said in response: “About 1700 routes across rural and regional NSW are covered by this announcement, but less than 20 of them travel on the Pacific Hwy – and several of those 20 or so travel on dual carriageway (e.g. on the Pacific Hwy in the far north of the State, or on sections where the construction of the dual carriageway is well underway, e.g. between Coffs and Grafton).

“This means that the dozens of routes, for example, listed on Busways’ website that travel the 100s of kilometres between Taree and Yamba (nth of Grafton) aren’t covered - and that means that 100s of students on the

dedicated school buses (known by operators as contract A buses) each day, covering more than 50 million

ambitious, but necessary undertaking,” he said.

“The former Labor Government

safety; reviewing regulations relating to speed limits around buses when school bus warning lights are flashing;

mid- North Coast alone aren’t covered and probably 1000s all up who travel on the Highway outside the metropolitan

kilometres each year. Buses that run

achieved absolutely nothing on this

exploring new ways to communicate

area,” Gill stated.

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UpFront

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ADAMS WINS WA AWARD ADAMS GROUP, the West Australian state-wide bus and coach network

The fleet of 88 vehicles now operates across all facets of transport

long-term contracting and pricing practices.”

launched by a former Australian Army soldier with the purchase of a single bus, has been named the 2013 Telstra Western Australian Business of the

including providing services for the government and tourism sectors, as well as schools and corporate events. The ADAMS Group is the

Will Irving, Telstra Business group managing director and ambassador for the Telstra Australian Business Awards, said the ADAMS Group was

Year, recently.

The Malaga-based Group now employs 131 people operating across four different transport divisions,

only business in Western Australia’s charter industry to run a fully equipped Operations Control Centre using GPS to track its fleet and ensure

a great example of an entrepreneurial West Australian business with strong management structure and operational control.

including coachlines and a mining service, which delivers personnel to remote mine sites throughout WA.

quality customer services.

Adam attributes much of the Group’s success to his company’s values,

“Judges were impressed with the innovative business approach of the ADAMS Group and its strong use

bigger sister the Melpha school/charter bus to Australia for market evaluation purposes, the shift in direction highlights

The award was presented by the Deputy Premier, the Hon. Dr Kim Hames MLA, Minister for Health,

which focus on honesty, integrity and trust between employees, clients, the community and other stakeholders.

of technology across all facets of operations,” he said.

“The business has enjoyed rapid

the potential of other completely Hinobuilt units to possibly grace our shores in future from the Japanese company.

and Telstra CEO, David Thodey, at the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre recently.

The ADAMS Group, which also took out the Medium Business Award, was founded in 2005 by Adam Barnard, who combined his mechanical and logistical skills gained in the army, along with tourism insights gleaned as a guide operating backpacker tours.

“The business has been based on raising the standards of road safety and service in the passenger transport industry, which is predominantly unregulated and historically featured high competition and low standards,” he said.

“We’re also committed to ensuring the viability of the industry through development of more appropriate

growth with a clear focus on diversity of earnings and multiple future growth opportunities.”

The Telstra Australian Business Awards were launched in 1992 to recognise the achievements of small and medium businesses and to share their growth ideas and strategies in a way that benefits the wider business community.

Built by Hino and J-Bus Ltd (J-Bus Ltd being the Hino and Isuzu joint venture formed in 2004) for the Japan Domestic Market, the stunning Hino Selega Hybrid might just be another one in the offing, industry sources reveal.

The Selega runs a Hino 13-litre in its diesel power format and in hybrid format it uses a Hino 8-litre engine with Hybrid drive.

And while these models haven’t been evaluated for Australia yet, given the initial feedback the company says it is receiving from the Poncho and the Melpha – also available in Japan in hybrid and electric forms – experts are predicting more of a shift in export focus towards the Australian domestic market

MORE HINOS FOR OZ? WITH HINO recently bringing in a supercool Poncho mini-bus low-floor and

by J-Bus Ltd. We’ll keep you posted.

Both the Poncho and the Melpha evaluation buses will be on display at the 2013 Australian Bus + Coach Show in Sydney, at the Sydney Showground, September 25-26.

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www.truckandbus.net.au 051

UpFront VOLVO PHOTO WINNER ANNOUNCED

ANTHONY ALLEN HAS been crowned overall winner of the Volvo Bus Australia 2013 photo competition. His photo of the Volvo B12B Bayside coach driving past the Parliament house was a perfect combination of a Volvo bus and an iconic Australian landmark, the company states. Allen’s photo of the classic Volvo Grenda bus was also selected runner-up in the competition.

“I was surprised to find out that I had

were memories of buses that I had driven,” said Allen.

The top prize includes a $1000 Westfield shopping voucher and an exclusive Volvo Bus merchandise pack. Anthony Allen’s photo will also grace the cover of the 2014 Volvo Bus Australia calendar.

Launched this February, participation in the Volvo Bus photo competition closed on 30 June. With a view of

the competition received in excess of 200 submissions and more than 40,000 pageviews of the competition site, making it a success for Volvo Bus Australia.

“The photo competition has been a fun way to relive our over four-decadelong history in Australia. We are happy with the response to the competition and the Volvo Bus memories that people have shared with us”, said Sean

Photos submitted by Paul Lancaster, Lisa Cooke, Hayden Ramsdale, Derek Flannery, Gavin Rufus, Zack Harrison, David Copley, Robert Rachwal, Adam Jones and Steve Wilson have been chosen as the other 10 runner-ups.

They will each receive a $250 shopping voucher and Volvo merchandise pack.

“The winning photo of the Bayside Coach was taken on a sunny Sunday afternoon as it was on tour in Canberra.

won and then that I had won in both categories. Both of the photos I took

celebrating the more than 40-year presence of Volvo Bus in Australia,

Copeland, general manager of Volvo Bus Australia.

I had driven the coach before and knew it was going to be sold, so I wanted to take a photo of it”, Allen said.

Currently working in Canberra, Anthony has remained closely involved in the bus industry. He previously drove buses for Volvo customers, Ventura and Bayside.

“The runner-up photo of the 1977 B58 Volgren-bodied Grenda bus is a good representation of Volvo’s 40-year-

For all your spare parts,

history in Australia. There are still many older modelled Volvo B10M buses running, which is a good indication that

repairs and refurbishment needs, trust the after-sales

the product is both high quality and appealing to the driver,” said Allen.

“I haven’t yet decided what I will

experts that care.

do with the prize money. Perhaps I will upgrade my camera and buy something nice for my partner,” he said cheekily.

Volvo Bus Australia congratulates all

National Service QLD 07 5571 6655 NSW 02 9914 3855 VIC 0429 302 007 SA 08 8240 4166

customcare.com.au

of the winners and thanks everyone for participating.

follow us online at: www.truckandbus.net.au

ZF LAUNCHES COMPOSITES TECH CENTRE in RTM production, as well as being integrated into existing ZF projects developing lightweight design concepts.

Some of these projects currently on the drawing board include passenger car components, such as a lightweight suspension strut and knuckle design, as well as a wheel-guiding transverse spring.

The premise of the knuckle is to produce a part that weighs half as much as the current steel component, with the FRP transverse spring showing a weight saving of 15 per cent.

For commercial vehicles, a four-point truck chassis link is being developed by ZF engineers, with projections showing

ZF’s CEO Dr Stefan Sommer (right) and ZF board member Michael Hankel

ZF’s NEWLY announced Composites Tech Centre at Schweinfurt, Germany, is set to revolutionise the volume manufacturing of fibre-reinforced plastics (FRP), paving the way for new lightweight products into the future, it’s claimed.

Set to advance all areas of the ZF Group, the facility will cover an area of 400 square metres, with room for future expansion.

At the heart of the ZF Composites Tech Centre is a press, which can be used to produce components from duroplastic materials via the Resin Transfer Moulding (RTM) process, with the setup ideal for

hardening systems, while other support systems will include a robot, as well as infrared and tempering furnaces.

Since the beginning of 2012, ZF has invested a total of EUR 3.1 million in infrastructure for the Centre, which will be headed by Dr Ignacio Lobo Casanova, initially leading four engineers.

“In the past few years, we have established vast basic knowledge and gained experience in lightweight design and we have increasingly been using fibre-reinforced plastics for this purpose,” says Michael Hankel, member of the ZF Board of Management responsible for

the process technologies for volume production using these materials, and we want to make this knowledge available throughout the Group.”

The Centre will have several tasks, the first of which being research of different RTM processes, and developing the hardware to produce improved products.

“Part of our basic research work aims at making samples available from different material systems in order to determine the corresponding material characteristics,” said Dr Ignacio Lobo Casanova.

“These again are stored as material models in a simulation process chain,

a potential weight saving of 25 per cent over the current cast item.

Over the entire ZF Group, there are approximately 30 development engineers who are currently working in projects where FRP materials experience is vital, with all of these staff set to take advantage of the ZF Composites Tech Centre’s research.

“One essential additional task of the ZF Composites Tech Centre is the Group-wide transfer of knowledge, as well as consultancy and qualification for all ZF divisions and other development locations,” said Dr Michael Heselhaus, project manager in charge of setting up the ZF Composites Tech Centre.

The new Centre won’t be solely focused

producing prototype parts for passenger and commercial vehicles, according to the company.

the Car Powertrain Technology and Car Chassis Technology divisions, as well as Corporate Production.

in order to be able to use simulations in the future to make product and process development leaner.”

on producing new vehicle components, as the FRP technology is hoped to enhance tooling for the production of several items,

The Tech Centre will also utilise a highpressure injection unit for various resin

“With the ZF Composites Tech Centre, we are now focusing specifically on

Other roles for the Centre include investigating the bonding methods used

including large scale sheet materials, and plastics injection moulding.

UpFront

follow us online at: www.truckandbus.net.au

ORION PLUS HITS OZ MARKET DURING SEPTEMBER 2013, UK company Bluebird will be exhibiting

in 2011 as an extension to the company’s range of low-floor

buses operate in Victoria alone, transporting 7500 special needs

one of its Orion Plus vehicles at the Australian Bus and Coach Show in Sydney, 25-26 - a first for the UKbased coachbuilder. Following the

accessible vehicles. The minibus sells - in the UK market - to schools, NHS and council services.

Bus operators also benefit from

children so the potential is massive.

The main difference to the UK is the climate. We’ve boosted the heating by using the eberspacer

show, the 22-seater low-floor bus will be used as a demonstration for vehicle sales via Bluebird’s agent, Kingston Tours.

the fuel economy it offers on routes with few or special needs passengers.

Kingston Tours owner Don Imrie

E900 air heater and added a roofmounted Spheros CC145 climate unit for air conditioning.”

Bluebird’s managing director Rob

Bluebird Vehicles supply van conversions and coach re-seats, as well as manufacturing its own low-

will be introducing the British-built bus to the Australian market. Ahead of the Show, Don is excited about

Miller commented: “Australia is just one growth area for Bluebird, other right-hand drive countries are also

floor minibus range, which includes the Tucana, Orion, Orion Plus and the Pegasus.

the vehicle’s potential.

“Australia is a vast country with no low-floor vehicle under 11

showing an interest in our products.

Our reputation for build quality and the fact we manufacture a niche

There are currently 196 Bluebird Orion Vehicles on the road in the UK. The Orion Plus was launched

metres sold here at the moment.

The school bus market is ideal for the Orion Plus, and 400 school

product means we have an exciting growth period ahead of us - with a real international flavour.”

Sawtell Adds Hybrids Sawtell Coaches has introduced to its regional NSW bus service two Green Low-Emission Hybrid low-floor route buses, recently.

The move comes after years of Sawtell Coaches searching the globe to try to find the best viable solution the green debate, the company says, with various alternative drive systems looked at.

Ultimately, Sawtell Coaches chose the BLK/BCI parallel diesel-electric-hybridCummins-Eaton drive system as the preferred option. This type of bus allows for a smaller carbon footprint, which

Orion Plus demonstrator bus, available to test drive after the Sydney Show

is achieved by the further reductions in fuel consumption and, in turn, less greenhouse gases.

CALTEX INCREASES ADBLUE

®

Caltex Australia is to further expand its industry-leading network of sites where

Pucar said.

“Caltex AdBlue is specifically

AdBlue® is available at the bowser, the company states.

Increased availability of AdBlue – a product specifically designed to meet

designed for use with the selective catalytic reduction (SCR) systems, which are now an important part of modern diesel vehicles, and can be

the stringent manufacturer requirements for operating newer European and North American vehicles – offered a convenient option for the transport

confidently used by transport operators to help reduce emissions from their vehicles using this technology.

“While most fuel retailers offer AdBlue

industry as it looked to reduce its exhaust emissions.

There are currently 32 Caltex sites

packs in store, Caltex is leading the fuel industry in increasingly providing this specialty product at the bowser.

equipped with dedicated AdBlue dispensers and Caltex general manager marketing Leo Pucar said the network

“Caltex’s multi-million dollar investment programme has targeted sites located along major transport

would be expanded to more than 40 locations by the end of 2013.

“With Australia’s vehicle emissions standards continuing to be brought in line with Europe and North America, the transport industry’s demand for products such as AdBlue is quickly growing,” Mr

routes and in close proximity to major industrial parks and business hubs.”

“The product is also widely available in package form at Caltex transport refuelling sites and we can also arrange bulk or packaged delivery to customer facilities nationwide.”

THE BRAHMAN AWD BUS IS FINALLY HERE Australia’s lowest priced 29 seat AWD Bus now in Stock Fitted with Cummins ISF E5 Allison 6speed Auto ZF Transfer case, 22.5” Alloys DVD w 17” Monitor GPS / PA and Radio Reverse and Security Cameras Tinted Windows and many other features as standard

THE BRAHMAN TRAVELLER CDS w ROBUST w RELIABLE BOOK YOUR TEST DRIVE NOW WA - Frank Johnson 0488 759 408

FNQ - Mark Baty 0490 007 394 Gold Coast - Hans Hobelt 0438 320 669

Coming Soon!

Daimler’s mini-bus push into OZ!

“...the tip of the iceberg, more are planned over the next 18 months.” - Justin Whitford, Daimler Bus & Coach, Australia

016 www.truckandbus.net.au

1 Mobility 35 provides unfettered

access for wheelchairs. • Main Pic (left): Transfer 34 seats 16 — This Page: Transfer 23 seats 12

M

2 Seat configuration in Mobility 33

aid appliance accommodation.

3 Sprinters have all the bells and

whistles you could ever need as a driver.

ercedes-Benz Australia Pacific is set to launch a four-model mini-bus onslaught in Australia almost immediately.

For far too long the bus division of MBAuP was moribund but following a shake-up this

(ABS), acceleration skid control (ASR), electronic brake distribution (EBD) and brake assist (BA) is standard on all models.

Within the four models coming here Australian buyers can choose between three Transfer variants, the 23, 34 and 45. Seating

year and on-going reorganisation led by newly installed general manager of the Bus and Coach group (now to be called Daimler

capacity is 12, 16 and 22 respectively.

These buses are ideal for shuttle work, day excursions and regular rural operations.

Buses) Justin Whitford, new models are imminent and more are planned over the next 18 months.

A low-floor 22-passenger City 45 will be offered and for passengers requiring wheelchair access two versions of the

In a matter of months Mercedes-Benz will have on sale four Sprinter mini-buses comprising no less than seven model variations.

Whitford confirmed to Coach & Bus

Mobility, the 35 and 45, will be available.

Seating capacity is 15+1 and 18+1 respectively.

Rounding out the Sprinter mini-bus range (for now at least) is the Travel 45, a

magazine that these models are the tip of the iceberg and that other, larger buses are either scheduled for Australia or are

7.3-metre, 19-passenger bus offering a high level of comfort for excursions, touring and VIP transfers.

under evaluation.

The model line-up consists of Transfer, City, Mobility and Travel. All are Sprinter-based

All are powered by Euro5-compliant fourcylinder diesel engines from the OM 651 series. Depending on the model, power

and are made by Mercedes-Benz Minibus GmbH. They are built in Dortmund, Germany.

They feature the latest safety technology

outputs are 70kW, 95kW and 120kW. Manual or automatic transmissions are available.

The mini-buses will be revealed in

currently available. Adaptive electronic stability program (ESP), anti-lock brakes

November and pricing will also be confirmed at that time.

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www.truckandbus.net.au 017

Coming Soon!

1 Pleasing interior and good

wheelchair-width aisle space.

2 Rear-access wheelchair facility

should prove very popular here.

3 How’s your Italian? Most will

understand Fiat. Ciao!

4 Huge windscreen means virtually

unrestricted vision and a light and airy feel inside.

Different Species Ultra-low floor 16-seater from Optare For Australia

O

can also be loaded from the front.

The Bonito has a unique style in its appearance although nothing like the fish it seems to be named after. The body is

display at the 2013 Australian Bus + Coach Show in Sydney in September.

The Bonito will complement the Optare

manufactured in a complete shell with a lowweight foam core and inner panels incorporated while still in the mould. As such, it is completely

Solo and Tempo city bus range (as featured exclusively in Coach & Bus magazine issue No. 9) that will also be on display. Orders are being taken for all models now.

The Bonito is a 16-seat ultra-low floor bus

corrosion proof, it’s claimed.

Typically of Optare, the interior is bright, open and colourful and with plenty of headroom. The semi-high back seats are fitted with three-point seat belts and the seats are mounted into

with kneeling air suspension based on the Fiat Ducato. Entry height from the side door height when lowered is 246mm and 296mm from the

Unwin floor tracking that are easily demountable to provide space for up to five wheelchairs.

Powered by a 3-litre, four-cylinder, turbo-

rear when lowered. It is 7509mm in length with a 5000mm wheelbase, has an overall height of 2648mm and a GVW of 4999kg.

diesel engine rated at 157hp, either a six-speed manual or six-speed semi-automatic can be specified. The electrics are 12V multiplex and

The body is made from composite materials, which offer low weight and exceptional strength and durability, it’s claimed.

the fuel capacity is 90 litres.

A smooth ride is a certainty with full independent suspension, twin air tanks and a

Of special interest to community transport groups, nursing, disability and aged-care

semi-ECAS kneeling feature. The steering is power-assisted rack and pinion.

ptare importer Patico Automotive Pty Ltd has announced it will be releasing the Bonito mini bus in Australia this year. It will be on

service providers is the rear wheelchair ramp that offers roll-on, roll-off access. Wheelchairs

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Prices will be announced at the show in September, we hear.

BUS SPECS MODEL: Optare Bonito BODY: Length - 7509mm, Width - 2200mm, Height - 2648mm.

Wheelbase: 5000mm. Entrance platform height Side - 260mm (246mm when lowered), Rear - 367mm (296mm when lowered) ENGINE: Four-cylinder, 16-valve 3.0-litre. Power - 157bhp@3600rpm, common-rail electronically controlled direct fuel injection with fixed geometry turbocharger and intercooler; 160 Multijet II (Euro 5 – Heavy Duty), Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF). Transmission – six-speed manual transmission with hydraulically operated single-plate clutch (optional six-speed semi-automatic ‘Comfortmatic’). Electrics - 12v Multiplex system with driver control panel and battery guard system.

SUSPENSION: Front - McPherson type, independent wheel, with trailing arms, helical springs, telescopic shock absorbers and roll bar (Optional front air lowering system - Full ECAS, self-levelling); rear - air bellow type, independent wheel, with trailing arms, telescopic adjustable shock absorbers, single levelling valve, 2x air tanks, air dryer, 12V compressor, valve block, pressure-relief valve. Ability to ferry raise and lower the suspension (Semi ECAS) BRAKES: Dual-circuit front and rear disc brakes with ABS + EBD. Wheels 215x75/16-inch MISC.: Fuel tank - 90 litres diesel; rack & pinion steering with power assistance; optional digital tachograph available; GVW - 4999kg

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Cover Story

Photography: Cristian Brunelli

Optimus Named after the iconic global Transformers cartoon hero Optimus Prime,Volgren’s own new state-of-the-art Optimus low-floor bus has much more to it under the skin than ‘meets the eye’.

Fabian Cotter reports.

020 www.truckandbus.net.au

Prime

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Exclusive first drive!

Coach & Bus magazine’s David Meredith gets behind the wheel of a new Optimus in Perth.

Arriving at the Volgren factory, the shiny new bus out the front was only the second Optimus to come off the production line. I was anticipating some rough edges obviously, but in the case of Optimus I was sadly disappointed. The bus had a rock-solid appearance and feel and although I looked closely at seams, joins and component installation I couldn’t pick anything out of place. All the electrical panels are in fold-down hatches with safety strips and illuminate on opening. A colleague of Matthew Smith, operations manager for Volgren’s Perth factory in Malaga, gave me a cockpit run-down - although it wasn’t a big job to orientate a new driver.

Foot on the brake and turn the key – wait a few seconds for the systems to self-check, and the Volvo

engine churns into life. The Euro5 engine is smaller and more powerful than its predecessor, so along with the lower tare weight of the Optimus (250kg lighter than its predecessor), it should show real fuel-efficiency benefits.

Close the door, select drive and release the park brake and we’re off. Both the windscreen and side windows all have a low sill line so vision is excellent.

The Volvo driveline is a proven entity around the world, so it was really just a run to see how the Volgren body construction integrated with the chassis.

For a new bus with no factory road test time, it was noticeable that there were no fizzes, rattles or clunks. There was an exhaust resonance under heavy throttle and some wind noise around the

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driver’s side mirror, but for production unit number two it was outstanding.

I’ve driven a number of overseas buses recently, particularly those imported fully built up from factories with very large production runs. None of them felt as tight as the Optimus.

On return to the factory we opened the hatches to check maintenance access, operated the kneeling suspension and the access ramp. Everything worked as planned, indicating that the production design and planning was truly a resounding success.

Volgren deserves more than just sales success with this new model route bus.

It should be recognised as an innovator and risk taker in a market that is as much under threat from cheaper imports as any of the big car manufacturers.

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“

nd though they are worlds apart, like us, there’s more to them

members’ – the first time the company’s actually given names to its buses – and

University and cloaked under the utmost covert secrecy operation within the company itself

than meets the eye.” Apart from spectacularly saving planet Earth from the evil intentions of their rivals The Decepticons, Autobots’ leader Optimus Prime

took the Optimus for an exclusive first drive in Perth to discover just how the Optimus DNA is spearheading Volgren’s product-line ‘transformation’ into the future.

and to just keep the designs away from the prying eyes of ‘the bus nuts’, Volgren’s new route bus was first officially handed over to the West Australian Government’s PTA recently,

– possibly the most famous truck in automotive history, really – is admired for such inspirational and thought-provoking quotes to millions of fans of the beyond-cool Transformers TV series

Volgren – 75 per cent of which was sold late 2011 to Brazilian bus-building concern Marcopolo – has supplied thousands of premium Australian-made bus bodies onto a

with other states to receive their deliveries in coming weeks and months.

“Volgren has spent more than $3 million developing this new model in collaboration

and movie franchises worldwide.

And yet while many in the Australian bus and coach industry may have been quick to

range of predominately European-made chassis throughout the country, fulfilling a slew of longterm contracts state to state over years.

with Monash University’s Faculty of Art, Design and Architecture,” Tony Kerr, Volgren’s general manager of sales and marketing, said.

judge Volgren’s new ‘Transformers namesake’ Optimus bus as just another Volgren, they’d only be earning the ire of the great man, er …

It is thus a moot point that any new designs or models are often taken for granted given the expected huge scope of their implementation,

“The result is a state-of-the-art model, which has received significant input from bus operators and bus drivers,” he said.

machine, Optimus himself whose quoted words above specifically warn never to judge things or others by external appearances alone.

Around three and a half years in the making and with the Endura facelifted charter/school/

distribution and support around Australia.

Generational change is often a good thing when it comes to new bus model design and or re-invigoration, and both the Optimus and Endura vehicles offer a stack of ‘next-gen’

The facts are a few years ago, Volgren - keen to put something back into the Australian industry and to nurture new talent – partnered with the University and an industry-based PhD Robbie Napper, who conducted his thesis on

mining bus launched simultaneously to back it up, Coach & Bus magazine got an in-depth look in Melbourne recently at both ‘family

innovation and practicality that should serve hundreds of operators well for years to come.

Designed in conjunction with Monash

the topic of ergonomic bus driver’s area design.

The results of which are evident in the Optimus.

These latest Volgren designs mark the

“…the Optimus is spearheading Volgren’s productline ‘transformation’ into the future.”

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1 A new rear one-piece custom clamshell seat-

riser-parcel shelf assembly. The whole seat base can be easily removed.

2 New automotive-grade, soft-touch textured plastic dashboard. Low reflectivity in matt-black finish.

3 Seamlessly integrated roof mount provides an engine air-intake solution.

4 CAD/CAM images led to a ‘half section’ mock-up

of the front using craft wood and resin.

5 Quite a strikingly clean and clear rear end,

perfect for advertising?

www.truckandbus.net.au 023

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BUS SPECS BODY: Volgren Optimus aluminium co-bolt system, capacity 41, two doors.

DIMENSIONS: Length - 12.3m, Width - 2.5m, Height - 3.25m CHASSIS: Volvo B7RLE (as pictured) MISC: Seats - McConnell Urban 2000; material – Holdsworth. Air-con Thermoking Citi RT

1 Tighter-bend profile stanchions with no ‘head

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strike’ concerns. Full-height toughened-glass modesty panels - top clear, lower opaque.

Kind of like playing arcade games - pushing buttons, hours of fun.

Light is dispersed onto – not from - the roof.

A very aircraft-type feel.

‘FutureBus’ driver’s area; the binnacle’s been reduced by 45mm to improve driver forward vision.

The powerful Driver’s Switch Panel (DSP) – a centralised CAN interface of switch and warning lights.

“…they [Optimus innovations] do their job without shouting first new releases since the Marcopolo investment and are touted as a collaboration of all parties concerned to varying degrees to reach the following objectives: Maintain Volgren’s product design advantage; Ensure product quality built into product design; Have configurable solutions to enhance specification; Design them for maintenance and repair; Design them for manufacture and assembly; Ensure weight reduction through

So what kind of stuff? Consider this. Outside, it’s a decidedly automotive smooth and sleek look overall, but with distinguishing features for discerning on-road use applications. At the front, most noticeable are the stylish LED daytime-running headlights – combination sealed units (IP66) harbouring LED indicator, position, low beam, DRL and independently replaceable and up-gradable H7 halogen high beam all behind a high-resilience

to minimise downtime, plus there’s enough flexibility of fit to enable manageable part replacement and quick attachment. That is, if structural things get bent a bit post-accident, the replacement parts, hinges and joins have a little bit of play in them to help achieve a ‘perfect fit’ look, getting the bus back on the road and running sooner.

At the rear, it’s a larger, flatter canvas to work from in terms of advertising space and

design; Use materials to the advantage of the design; Ensure clear, flat surfaces in consistent materials for cleaning.

polycarbonate lens.

They punctuate the stylishly protruding but round-edged front grille and bumper, the

cleaning, with the engine door hinge being a ball and socket jobbie for quick removal and replacement when needed. The combination

And when you start to pick the brains of Volgren engineering manager Michael Kearney you get a really good insight into just how

former an automotive-grade plastic access hatch with hidden quick release fasteners and full removal capability. So, too, the bumper

sealed tail-lights (IP67) are similarly an LED solution for high output and longer life, covered, as they are, in high-resilience

those objectives were met. You also appreciate that so many of the tips and techniques are not immediately noticeable, or that inherent in their nature to be eminently practical and circumspect their beauty is actually in the

is automotive-grade PC-ABS plastic with resilience to minor impacts, taller impact zones to the front corners and reduced replacement costs. It all visually grounds a modular frontend design that features ‘wrap over’ semi-

polycarbonate lenses, too.

The lower lamp assembly has hidden fasteners and is mounted independently of the bumper corner and rear cowl. The upper lamp assembly fasteners are accessible

fact they do their job without shouting it out annoyingly to the driver, passenger or end-user at whatever stage of bus usage life.

bonded destination glass up top, integrated peeper screen design and an integrated washer bottle fill point that has an electronic

externally. And while below the rear bumper is automotive-grade PC-ABS plastic with reliance and flex for minor impacts, taller impact zones,

And what started as “far out to more practical” automotive-like sketches, says Kearney, then CAD/CAM images that led to a ‘half section’

low-level sensor.

It’s all about accident anticipation, though, so the multi-plane adjustable pressed bumper

hidden fasteners and reduced replacement costs, it’s above on the roof where the coolest – literally – design innovation takes place.

mock-up of the front using craft wood and resin, formed the basis of the final product.

mounts and independently removable corner and centre sections means fast and easy repair

Here, a very contemporary and seamlessly integrated roof mount provides an engine air

024 www.truckandbus.net.au

intake solution, with the contoured design reducing impact zones and whose capacity is

half clear and lower half opaque really look trick. All for a more pleasing look and easier

but we’ll get to that in a jiffy. Until then cleaners will enjoy the special lighting ‘cleaning mode’

future-proof for Euro6 standards. Aside from its water and debris trap-and-release design, the symmetry of the unit is purpose built for optimum results regardless of which brand

cleaning, says Kearney, and we’d have to agree. There are also wide glass clamp connections that incorporate anti-squeak rubber profiles, reduced gaps between panels,

when the bus is stationary to help them see what’s what.

Another interesting addition is the wireless bell push buttons, part of a system that means

chassis and engine is used.

Along the flanks of the typically aluminium Volgren framework, a new Co-Bolt rubber

and plinth-mounted modesty panel feet allow for increased passenger space and easier floor cleaning, the company explains.

they can be located in extra places as an operator wants. Touted as low cost, they each run using lithium ‘coin cell’ batteries that are

hinge design ensures quick swapping of body panels in the event of a shunt or bingle. The fixed panels have an adjustable speed-clip

Most interesting are the new step-edge corner moulds, made from a non-slip wearresistant plastic, with the removal of mitres

easily replaceable in two minutes. Better still, each button has the UEB Braille text ‘s-t-o-p’ on them to aid vision-impaired commuters.

hidden fastener, while any hinged panels have an adjustable positive-locking torsional spring latch, which means it can simply be slammed shut. Nice one!

And that’s the thing with the Optimus exterior,

greatly improving the quality of finish it must be said. And with the removal of dirt traps in the profile again that means reduced cleaning for operators. ‘Backs saving’, anyone?

Above, at night, it’s very much an ‘aircraft

Further back is a big selling point to this bus, though: a new rear seat riser and header design. With limited joins and ruts visible, there’s now a one-piece custom clamshell rear seat-riser-parcel shelf assembly with clear, flat

it’s all about reducing potential damage during an accident and then enabling faster parts removal and swap time to get the bus back on

cabin look’ with indirect LED strip lighting integrated into the roof air-conditioning duct support, so light is dispersed onto – not from

surfaces for cleaning. Made to fit any brand chassis, the whole seat base can be easily removed as one piece to reveal cavernous

the road and back in business.

Inside is a raft of clever and practical innovations that set this bus apart, also. The Volgren Optimus has tighter bend profile stanchions with no ‘head strike’ concerns, the company says, while the full-height toughened-glass modesty panels that’s top

- the roof and thus illuminates the interior that way. And why? To aid drivers by reducing windscreen reflection at night. Brilliant!

Interior illumination is in three dimmable zones per side of the vehicle, configurable through the Multiplex system and all controlled by the driver via the DSP panel at the front –

hatch access to the engine underneath for quick repairs and examination. And with no rubbish accumulation areas behind the seats or between the seat base and squab – it’s going to be a real winner for many operators.

But back to that DSP panel at the front…

There’s stacks of cool stuff going on in this

it out annoyingly to the driver, passenger or end-user.”

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area. In the ‘FutureBus’ driver’s area, the new automotive-grade soft-touch textured plastic

modular flip-out wheelchair ramp cartridge with wear-resistant aluminium extrusion

as standard. With removable seat inserts for refurbishment, the seat squab comes

dashboard takes pride of place, with low reflectivity in matt-black finish. The binnacle’s been reduced by 45mm to improve driver forward vision, it’s claimed, and this itself is

surrounds before spotting the plastic dash risers with modular inserts offering bin and fireextinguisher options, plus jump-start socket with hinged access. Drivers will easily be able

off to afford valuable access to chassis and suspension equipment underneath. This allows more efficient use of space for a larger 1300mm aperture front door.

easily removable to enable technicians to get easy access to wiring and such.

The dash is hallmarked by a well-laid-out and powerful Driver’s Switch Panel (DSP) –

to swing open the plastic door that harbours a drink and document holder, semi-recessed high-strength hinges and an adaptable security screen insert function. They even get their own

Ultimately, it’s all been about more efficient utilisation for space, enhanced maintenance and service access, enhanced driver HVAC facilities and control, and use durable materials

a centralised CAN interface of switch and warning lights that seemingly gives drivers uber control of various aspects of the bus and

little security locker for valuables, while above their heads there’s an electrical compartment housing various looms and switches that’s

with flat surfaces for ease of cleaning.

Hmm, it seems in all the years that The Transformers cartoon and movies have been

can probably even make them some toast from all accounts. Highlights include full C90 MUX on-board computer control including the air-conditioning and destination indicator; integrated electronically variable heaterdemister control; and long-life LEDs with the graphics overlay printed from beneath to remove potential for fingertip wear.

Upon entering the bus, you’ll note the

much easier to get to than behind the driver’s seat. They’ll love the hinged sun visor, too, which closes the gaps between the screen blind and the A-pillar.

Immediately behind the driver’s area is Volgren’s new PC-ABS plastic wheelbox solution, with integrated parcel rack and wear-resistant vinyl floor tub. There’s even stainless steel kick panels on all lower surfaces

around the creators made way-cool machines out of a range of vehicles - except a bus! But as some geeky online Transformers fans argue, an ‘Optibus’ should have hit our big screens ages ago. And something as good looking and practical as Volgren’s new Optimus might just help impregnate that thought somewhere in Hollywood along the way. Who knows?

‘Autobots … roll out!’

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1 Stylish LED daytime-running head-

lights – combination sealed units.

2 Modular flip-out wheelchair ramp

cartridge.

3 Volgren engineering manager

Michael Kearney.

4 New Optimus low-floor - ‘more

than meets the eye’.

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Game Changer.

Daimler Buses is changing the bus industry to create a new level of product and service for our customers.

There will be more choice, greater flexibility and access to technologically advanced vehicles.

Change is coming.

Show Time

Photography: Fabian Cotter

2013 Bus 1 1 Asia Motors was out in force. Custom CB80-

bodied Daewoo BH120SN low-floor looked great.

2 The Volvo stand had its new hybrid system

on display.

3 Aussie cricket legend Steve Waugh was a most

welcome speaker.

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Vic Show A diverse range of bus industry issues and initiatives offered ample food for thought for the assembled delegates at the 2013 Maintenance Conference and Bus Expo at Mooney Valley, Melbourne, July 1-2 once more.

Fabian Cotter reports.

6 4 The Scania display got a lot of interest.

5 “And who are these legends?” you

may ask. Yep, Coach & Bus’s first BusVic display.

6 Eager punters getting dropped off for the 2013 BusVic show.

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T

here was lots to take in again this year at the 2013 show and for many

Euro 6; metropolitan planning strategy; rapid transit systems, the economy, the role of the

the biggest problem was spreading their time thinly from workshop to workshop trying to absorb all the educational in-depth information, such was the eagerness

bus in future, workshops on accreditation; bus fire safety and a discussion on the international best practice forum.

And with more than 120 exhibitor stands

to get up to date with the latest state, national and often times international bus and coachrelated happenings.

Though attendance numbers seemed down

and 80 buses on display, there was much new technology and latest trends to see.

As always, the grub at this event wasn’t too foul at all, either – and, in fact, whoever

on the previous year and there were the notable omissions of a few key exhibitors such as Bustech and Denning this year, the

cooked up that delicious spicy chicken dish thing during the Mercedes-Benz-sponsored lunch probably deserves an Order of Australia

2013 event did much to keep us entertained via some keynote speakers like the great Aussie cricketing legend that is Steve Waugh

Medal or three. No instant microwave meals served here, thanks. Bewdy!

The Voice TV show 2012 runner-up Darren

- many were truly appreciative of his patience to pose for fan snaps and have a quick chat - and Irish comic Paul Martell, who had us in stitches of laughter. Actually, we’re still crying now thinking back about some of his gags.

Topics looked at during the event included: how the Australian bus industry will cope with

Percival on the Monday night was the real pick of the musical entertainment, matching the quality of the artists of the previous year.

The 2014 BusVic Maintenance Show and Bus Expo will be held again at Moonee Valley, Melbourne, Monday 30 June and Tuesday 1 July. Be there!

1 2

“…there was much new technology and latest trends to see.”

1 This portable bus wheel-cleaning

thing was wicked! Now if it could only do BBQs...

2 Taking a break from nagging school kids?

3 Volgren’s stylish new Optimus Low-floor and Endura School/Charter in the flesh.

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A new journey Our commitment to your future Custom is focused on exceeding your expectations through a strengthened commitment to quality, reliability and service for the life of your vehicle. We look forward to sharing the journey with you.

custombus.com.au | 02 9914 3800

QLD XXXX XXXX NSW XXXX XXXX VIC XXXX XXXX NT/SA/TAS/WA XXXX XXXX

AN ALEXANDER DENNIS COMPANY

First Glimpse

Photography: Mark Bean

FUNKY

TOWN One of the coolest-looking, mega-practical and size-conscious buses from Hino is being evaluated for the Australian market and, backed up by the larger Melpha charter bus, it seems the Japanese company might just capture a few hearts and minds. Fabian Cotter, from Funky Town, reports.

R

emember spinning out the craft types at school as a kid who’d rock up after the day before judiciously cleaning, cutting and cropping an empty chip packet just so as to stick it into the oven for about 10 minutes on 100 degrees C to shrink them into miniature chip-packet key rings and stuff? Bleedin’ show-offs! Well, that’s kind of what the awesome-looking Hino Poncho Low-floor bus reminds one of – a bus that’s been perfectly shrunk for the same “Oh my gosh, it’s so cute,” effect by onlooking bus-stop school girls, or the “Whoah, that’s just the coolest thing!” responses from joggers passing it at Sydney’s sunny Wanda Beach during our exclusive photoshoot, recently.

“Nobody else is really in this market, so we really need operators to tell us where to put it,” said a coy Kevin Fielding, Hino Australia’s national sales manager and ex-pat Brit who was kind enough not to mention The Ashes.

And whilst his official viewpoint is probably the kind that is expected given that Hino’s brought the little Poncho and bigger sister Melpha school/ charter bus out here for evaluation and promotion – a kind of discerning and well-researched toes

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www.truckandbus.net.au 033

There’s no way this thing is going to be ignored out on Aussie roads. Especially in Mandarin Orange. Yum!

“The Poncho … is a bus that’s been perfectly shrunk down.” dip into the Australia market waters, if you will

space. But that might just end up a side

lowering capacity.

– you don’t have to be Scooby-Do to realise a fuel-efficient and space saving low-floor bus like this is exactly what hundreds, if not

bonus to a bus that ticks off so many other boxes to many a potential buyer’s ‘must-have’ and ‘must-do’ checklists.

And while there was no radio on the Poncho that we could see, it’s so cool looking and the feel inside so quant, inviting and panoramic

thousands, of operators need on their fleet for those quirky short or low-volume mid-day routes and runs. And there are electric and

What kind of stuff? Try a punchy 160PS (158hp), 494Nm four-cylinder JO5 engine running through a Japanese five-speed ASIN

that we couldn’t get “Gotta make a move to a town that’s right for me. Town to keep me movin’, keep me groovin’ with some energy.

hybrid versions doing the rounds back in Japan, we’re told.

Even better, the cheeky Poncho’s endearing looks and attention-grabbing styling – it’s

transmission, plus a deliciously tight and practical 6.4m turning circle for starters.

Then add in seating for 18 (seats might need to be shortened a bit to increase

Won’t you take me to … Funky Town” out of our heads because I guess, if there even were an actual Funky Town somewhere on this planet, the Poncho is exactly the type of thing

visually tall and narrow, no one’s going to ignore this thing on the road in this country just yet - means operators and advertisers would have one heck of a rolling billboard to

legroom for the Aussie market, says Fielding) and standing room comfortable for 10.

It’s DDA compliant, has two-door access (850mm wide, one either side), a strong-

to be seen driven in checking out the sites.

“It’s easy for people to work on,” said Fielding. “We see this as community transport, as a rural route bus, ideal for retirement

work with when it comes to generating extra revenue from using such mobile commercial

performing Denso air-conditioning system, 17.5-inch steel wheels and four-wheel raise/

homes, used in satellite suburbs, and small school applications, RSL clubs and sporting

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Two-door access, one either side (850mm wide).

Driver’s area nicely done, quality solid feel through the wheel.

Tall and skinny ... er, ‘wins the race’?

Seat bases may be shortened for OZ, but... ...there’s plenty of wheelchair room with these two raised.

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The Time Is Right…

It’s no surprise that Hino Motor Sales Australia’s (HMSA) interest in the bus market is on the rise.

The company has had limited offerings in recent years and HMSA president and chief operating officer, Steve Lotter, feels the time is right to increase the Hino range in Australia given the rising interest in bus travel.

HMSA still has a few hurdles to overcome before new models are finalised, ADR’d and on the market.

Lotter says anywhere between 50 and 100 units per year is

realistic and clearly would rather be at the upper end of those figures than at the bottom end. While fully-built buses out of Japan would be ideal he recognises that there are other factors that will influence where models will originate from.

Hino uses body builders in other parts of Asia and it may be that the decision makers in Hino City, about 1.5 hours out of Tokyo, will make the final decision.

There is no denying the influence a completely built-up bus from

a Japanese manufacturer of Hino’s reputation and high standard would have on potential customers. To be ‘100 per cent Hino’ is a powerful selling tool.

Models such as the Poncho and the Melpha are definitely on the radar – which is why Hino brought them here for evaluation.

The Poncho is kind of cute in a distinctly Japanese animation way and the Melpha is strictly form and function. Either bus would find acceptance in this market we think. Interesting times.

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What is J-Bus? Glad you asked. J-Bus Ltd is a 50-50 jointventure between Hino and Isuzu started in 2004 and now employs around 1300 people. Before that each company had its own rich and unique Japanese automotive history.

Hino’s roots started in 1908 by Kentaro Wakita as Automobile Body Manufacture in Shibaura, Tokyo, under his private management. Then in 1945 there was the establishment of the Kanazawa Aircraft Company Ltd. By 1975 the above two companies merged into a single company: Hino Auto Body Ltd, and in 2002 the factory’s head office was relocated to Komatsu City.

Isuzu Bus Manufacturing Co. Ltd started in 1948 and from inception was manufacturing motor coaches and large buses (non-Kawasaki heavy Industries Ltd). In 1986 IK Coach Ltd, Isuzu Motors Ltd and Kawasaki Heavy Industries Ltd were established. And by 1995 the name was changed to Isuzu Bus Manufacturing Co. Ltd. J-Bus says that for over 100 years it’s been working to the themes of ‘Customers First’ and ‘Human Centred Principle’ and always working on ‘low emission’ in consideration of the environment. To this day J-Bus says it continues to manufacture top-quality buses that provide ‘Gratification’, ‘Impression’ and ‘Future’ for all the people who are involved in its buses.

clubs should like it, too,” he added.

The Mandarin Orange Poncho Coach &

welcome it when the funky little Poncho makes its Australian viewing debut at the

Bus magazine got exclusive access to was a 2008 model (they original came out in 2006), but depending on how the evaluation in this country goes we’ll see the later 2012 and

2013 Australian Bus + Coach Show, 25-26 September at the Sydney Showground.

“Over the past three to four years pushing Hino Japan to bring in more product [into

beyond generation come into the Australian market quite soon, which features minor cosmetic changes from what we can tell.

The low-floor Poncho – a full Hino chassis

Australia] and finally all the ticks are in our favour,” Fielding happily explained.

The Poncho evaluation move is backed up by the larger Melpha school/charter bus,

and body set-up - has a 300mm drop step as standard, lowering to 250mm if needed via the wheel risers. Plus there’s an optional

whose solid build quality and interior-design innovation should hold it in good stead if it gets the greenlight for market use here.

automatic ramp access fitment if required.

And on the model we saw, the rear-view camera gave great vision on the aftermarket

Though the first Melpha model came out in Japan in 1999, the one we got a run in was a 2011 version with concertina doors and

Clarion screen up front in the driver’s area, though this may be relocated slightly closer to the right for our market. Again, it’s all part of the feedback process and Hino will

daubed in a soothing Sky Baby Blue. Using the JL7 five-cylinder engine, it pumps out 230PS (227hp) and 634Nm to the wheels via the fivespeed Allison 2500 series transmission.

“On the road, the Melpha performed well. Robust power production, with a good mix of ratios.”

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1 Good legroom and front vision from here. Tour

guide’s fold-out seat on driver’s left.

2 Seating capacity to be determined; Japanese

market aisles seats have to go.

3 Luggage space for day trips, not monthly Euro-

style holidays. Would fit skis, though.

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4 Melpha is flat-ish and simple looking in the bum.

Rear window aids light and airy feel inside.

“With school use ranging from category

passengers it can carry – though if everyone

three to four buses, our Melpha is a category three,” Fielding said. “It’s also ideal for

brought monster-sized suitcases then it’s just not going to happen. Operators will need to

charter day tours, mining operations and private school use (ideal classroom size),” he explained.

assess their needs and how the Melpha fits.

On the road, the Melpha performed well and seemingly gave robust power production,

Inside, it was Japanese seating layout of 3542 capacity, determined by the extra fold-down aisle seats – but these, of course, would not

with a good mix of ratios so there’s no real ‘ringing its neck’ needed to get the most out of it – plus this, in turn, helps fuel

be legal in the Australian market so finalised seating capacity and configuration is yet to be determined. It is unsure if Australian operators

consumption figures.

Stopping comes courtesy of air-activated hydraulic brakes and air-activated power

will take advantage of the fridge/cooler and flip-out tour-guide seat near the driver’s area,

brakes, bringing the 19.5-inch wide steel wheels to a halt. Turning was a, for its size,

but these might just prove ideal for operators needing a bus that needs to diversify to tap into fluctuating revenue streams.

tight 7.5m which would make it ideal for many rural and country roads.

It looks like exciting times ahead for Hino

Along the flanks, flip-up doors reveal sideto-side through luggage stowage capacity that looks in keeping with the amount of

and with both buses at the forthcoming Sydney bus show there should be plenty of interest in these two fleet options.

BUS SPECS MODEL: Hino Poncho Long (JHDHX6JLA) ENGINE: J05D Euro5 with DPR 4.72-litre, 17:1 compression. Power 132kW(180PS)@2800rpm, Torque -530Nm (54.0Nm/KgfM)@1600, four-cylinder east/ west engine, four valves per cylinder OHC, common-rail fuel system, intercooled turbo, alternators -24V-90A-60A. Transmission Asin five-speed automatic CHASSIS: Front suspension - two airbags with stabiliser bar, rear suspension – two airbags with stabiliser bar, both axles can raise/lower 50mm, Step height driving - 310mm, step height lowered - 260mm, turning circle - 6.4m, wheel base - 4960mm.

Tyre size -205/80R 17.5-inch. Brakes - Air over hydraulic, front and rear drums brakes, air-operated park brake on the rear axle BODY: Length -6990mm, width - 2080mm, O/H height - 3100mm, front O/hang - 710mm, rear -O/hang - 1320mm. Seat 18 plus driver and 10 standees MISC: Fuel tank -160 litres, Tare weight 5770kg, GVM - 7585kg

BUS SPECS MODEL: Hino Melpha (RR7JJCA) ENGINE: JO7E Euro5 with DPR 6.4-litre, 17:1 compression. Power - 169kW (230PS)@2500rpm, Torque - 657Nm (67.0Nm/KgfM)@1500rpm. Four valves per cylinder OHC, common-rail fuel system, intercooled turbo, rear mounted, alternators - 24V-90A-60A. Transmission - Allison WS five-speed (1st - 3.102:1, 2nd - 1.811:1, 3rd 1.408:1, 4th - 1.000:1, 5th - 0.712:1) CHASSIS: Front suspension – two airbags with stabiliser bar, rear suspension -two airbags with stabiliser bar. Turning circle -7.4m, wheelbase - 4490mm. Tyre size 9R19.5-14PR. Brakes - Air over hydraulic, front and rear drums brakes, air-operated park brake on the rear axle BODY: Length - 8990mm, width 2340mm, O/h height -3140mm, front O/hang - 1820mm, rear O/hang - 2625mm, Ground clearance - 210mm. Seating - 35 plus driver, luggage bins – 2x saddle bins (one extra on the left) MISC: Fuel tank - 160 litres, Tare - 7520kg, GVM - 9955kg

Future Proof

Lights, Camera, Actia!

Incoming British-built Optare buses will be equipped with the most advanced computer-aided vehicle electronics and diagnostic technology ever offered in a route bus. Geoff Paradise visited the Actia facility in Wales, UK, earlier this year.

034 www.truckandbus.net.au

Y

ou’ve all heard the phrase ‘more tricks than Houdini’, right? Well, let

telematics, CCTV, passenger counting and audio-video are the company’s strengths and,

me tell you there’s an unimposing brick building in an industrial estate in Newtown, Wales, where a team of

amazingly, all or parts of these systems can be, or are, incorporated into the incoming Optare bus range.

magicians create some of the smartest onboard technology ever to see the light of day.

Despite its modest presence the Actia Group is spread around the globe with operations in Europe, the USA, South America, China,

Its customer base reads like a who’s who of the automotive and aviation industry: Volvo, ADL, Scania, Renault, Optare, King Long, AirBus and many more.

The incoming Optare products will be

India and now - we can exclusively reveal Actia products will be available in Australia by Patico Automotive Pty Ltd, a company that

equipped with the Eco Drive, an instrument cluster that monitors driver behaviour and then, at the end of the journey (or shift)

envelopes Irizar Oceania, Avia Trucks, Smith Electric trucks and Optare. Its principal, Tony Fairweather, is best known as the managing

present him or her with a skill level calculation out of 199. Yet Eco Drive is but one of the many tricks Actia can provide.

director of Irizar Oceania.

Actia’s product portfolio reads like the backroom operation of the CIA: embedded systems, remote and on-board diagnostics, multi-plexing and power management,

Over the past three years Actia has been developing its next generation multiplex system said to be meeting the needs of the industry for the next five years. Its new dashboard central management system,

It’s basically 360-degree viewing inside and outside the bus. The driver’s shown passenger actions while outside they see pedestrians near the bus. Safety first!

“…will meet the needs of the industry for the next five years.” www.truckandbus.net.au 039

The MultiC 2 central management system features full-colour, highresolution graphics here...

...and features 7-inch (175mm) TFT display here.

MultiC 2, coupled with its new Acti-MUX multiplex system will make other systems look

power PWM control unit that dispenses with controls for heating and cooling and offers

positively outdated, from what we exclusively observed. Combined it will offer a cost reduction, comprehensive support and offer

direct control of the LED lightning. But, as stated earlier, this system has more tricks than Houdini and will be a boon to drivers

extended warranty.

The MultiC 2 central management system features full-colour, high-resolution graphics; 7-inch (175mm) TFT display; greater connectivity including 5 CAN; IP

and fleet operators.

For instance, it is able to monitor and report back to the driver and/or the fleet manager any fleet owner-driver behaviour, such as acceleration, braking and corning

(I’m sure the geeks know all about this); and faster processing.

Actia says compared with its competitor’s

style - which then allows the driver to be made aware of their driving style. And, if required, improved.

system in the UK the Acti-MUX has greater functionality, offers reduced power consumption, reduced weight and

It can monitor fuel use average on a set route or breakdown fuel use from a standing-start via the G-force display;

reduced cost.

It offers reduced hardware components with the master control unit incorporated into the dash, thereby negating the need for an additional control unit. It has a high-

higher Gs means more fuel consumed and passenger discomfort.

Conversely, the G-force metre will also display negative G-force under brakes that also contributes to fuel consumption and

040 www.truckandbus.net.au

1 It might look a bit Space Invaders, but

it’s easy to understand actually.

2 Just follow this Eco Drive explanation

and you’ll be laughing.

3 The telematics give real-time

locations of buses and any problems.

“…higher G’s means more fuel consumed and passenger discomfort.”

1

passenger discomfort.

These features are then compiled to give the driver a ‘journey event’ report that includes acceleration, de-acceleration, corning, and economy over the total distance travelled and then calculates a Driver Skill Level that is displayed in the top right corner of the dash. It counts down from 199 so the higher the driver is to that number the better they have done that day.

and pedestrian traffic.

The telematics element is even more

The Actia system has much wider scope for operators. So many, in fact, space will not allow us to delve into all of them here - but as

impressive. From the bus, the depot or any internet connection in the world - and if appropriately connected - the vehicle’s

an example, consider this! It has the ability to count passengers getting on and off via the GPRS server, determining where along the

operating systems can be checked and monitored remotely. For instance, if a bus blows a globe in the brake light this can be

route they board and alight.

It can, again using the GPRS and pre-set functions, alert passengers via audio or a TV monitor if they are approaching a particular shop, or if it’s approaching a meal-time that a café or fast-food joint is two stops away.

Have you ever heard those strategically placed radio ads for Macca’s as the time approaches midday? Same thing here. This in itself opens up revenue opportunities for the bus operator with local businesses.

There are also CCTV options that can monitor everything the driver is doing, passenger behaviour and surrounding vehicle

flagged back at the depot for immediate repair or a service unit can be dispatched to fix the problem.

The service guy won’t have a problem locating the bus because its exact position will be shown on his laptop. So within minutes, a bus can be made legal and thus avoid a fine.

In the UK and Europe, it can geo-track vehicles in real time and report events relative to breathalyser interlock systems and geographically pinpoint the location of the bus or coach. In other words, if the driver’s had a couple it will dob him in immediately and disable the vehicle.

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Operator

Photography: David Meredith

Dirty Work

The Australian mining sector, driven by the Chinese economic boom, may have slowed a bit, but with experts predicting the Asian powerhouse to re-ignite itself, a slew of manufacturers are making tough all-terrain busbodied trucks for the arduous mining conditions. David Meredith reports.

042 www.truckandbus.net.au

1 You’d never know it was part truck.

Inside it’s pure bus and looks great.

2 Omnibus sales manager David

McLaurin is quite proud of this tough vehicle.

3 Plenty of access width and well lit for night entries and exits.

D

uring the past six months there’s been a significant downturn in

1

In contrast, the company is busy dealing with major repairs to some buses that have

the up to 30-seat bus market in Australia. The rot started last October, with the sub 20-seat sector down 23 per cent compared to the same month in

been built in Asia and are not coping well with West Oz conditions. Cracking along the window frame bases is a common occurrence, and warranty work on these

2011, it’s claimed. At the end of November, the same group was down another 32 per cent and the over 20-seat group had also

products seems to be growing, it’s claimed.

Mine services is a specialist area that requires highly detailed work and absolute

fallen off a cliff – down 37 per cent. December was worse, down 40 per cent and 58 per cent respectively against December 2011.

So far this year, these bus sectors are running 19 per cent and 39 per cent below the volume for the first four months in 2012, it’s believed.

It’s no coincidence that such a marked drop has happened as the mining sector has gone off the boil. In the West Australian goldfields, widespread retrenchments have quietly gone ahead, even in the seemingly bulletproof gold sector. The need for transporting the workers to the rock face has suddenly diminished, and employment contractors, as well as mine owners, don’t have the desperate need for rotating their Fly In, Fly Out (FIFO) workers on and off site every

compliance to vigorous health and safety regulations. With that in mind, Omnibus has recognised an opportunity to capitalise on its skills and has now built the first of a new series of 30-seat bus bodies on an Isuzu FTS 4x4 chassis.

The frame is a Dura-gal galvanized rollhoop design that is ADR 59/00 Rollover compliant, and is trimmed in a blend of (almost) luxury and practicality. The interior is fitted out to the level of a coach, except for floor trimming, which is designed to cope with the standard issue steel-cap boots loaded with mud and grit. Panels, window fittings and roof trim reflect a quality control process that is spot-on – no loose ends and glue runs here.

The build schedule fits comfortably into

working day.

Yet in the face of that dismal news, plus the savage cuts on the manufacturing front

the company’s bus build programme, where in-house expertise that is utilised extensively

by Transperth and other major operators is

nationally, a West Australian company based in the Canning Vale industrial area is

always available.

The market is presently too specialised and

frantically busy dealing with existing business

small for imported products to play a major

and developing new products for this highly selective market. Heck, if you’ve visited WA

role; however, sales manager David McLaurin is aware of some manufacturers who are

recently and behaved like an idiot, you may even have been a guest in one of its products – the West Australian Police Booze Buses.

trying to get approval for rollover certification.

Yet Omnibus has a significant lead in this area as all its bus body construction is already

Omnibus Services builds bus bodies that are engineered and fabricated in WA specifically for local conditions. Its success

rated as compliant.

A purchasing executive from one of the major mining companies crawled all over the

is marked less by fanfare and more by the longevity of its handiwork. A recent repair job on one of its products that has been in service for nearly 20 years involved some

bus recently and was very impressed. The first thing he did when he got on board was to walk to the back of the bus and check the air-conditioning flow at the furthest point from

minor panel work and a light replacement. All this after the bone-rattling grind of a country school bus route.

the air-con unit.

“That’s the first complaint we get,” he said.

“We don’t want a bus that has the guys

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“…less by fanfare and more by the longevity of its handiwork.” www.truckandbus.net.au 043

fighting to get the front seats because that’s where the air is the coldest.”

The Isuzu chassis on the first model is rated for a gross weight of 13-tonne, but even with

Due to the high ambient temperatures that the bus will be operating in, Omnibus installs a full coach Thermo King X700 heat-cool air system that is designed for a standard 45-seat

a full load of substantial blokes it will still only weigh gross at 8-tonne. Some suspension mods are being discussed with the local dealer to tone down the suspension stiffness

cabin. The result is an excess capacity that will maintain cool air from front to back in the face of the hottest temperatures the Pilbara can throw at it.

a notch, as the 4x4 capability is more for traction on dirt roads rather than any kind of mountain goat capability.

Driving the bus on a short run - despite being

The key design objective was to get buyers who need off-highway-capable personnel transport to think of a bus-type body from a

empty- it was quiet and rattle free. The hatch through to the passenger compartment is large and well trimmed, and there was no squeaking

recognised bus builder rather than a poorly adapted truck.

Ken Gillam is general manager and latest

or engine noise leakage into the cab. The FTS has an unblemished record operating on some of the toughest tasks that face medium-duty

family member to head up a private Omnibus business that started in Kojunup, in Western Australia’s south-west in 1977. The company has built more than 200 buses - mainly for school charters - and because of the growing

trucks, and by matching it with a claimed class-leading body construction, operators should be able to look forward to utilisation levels that are difficult to match with products built in Asia, according to Omnibus.

need for bus repairs and modifications it has expanded to the present facility in Canning Vale in 2000. It’s presently the largest bus repair outfit in the Western state.

Additionally, all the body parts are available off the shelf in Western Australia and, with the Isuzu’s reliability record, downtime should be minimised.

“…maintain cool air from front to back [against] the hottest the Pilbara can throw at it.”

Plenty of room and resources for if one of these ever gets into trouble out in the tough mining areas.

Looks quite stylish, too.

044 www.truckandbus.net.au

BUS SPECS MODEL: Omnibus 30-seat 4x4 bus CHASSIS: Isuzu FTS 4x4 chassis; the frame is a Dura-gal galvanized roll-hoop design -ADR 59/00 Rollover compliant; rated at 13-tonne.

Cold riveted ladder frame with parallel side rails. HT540A high-tensile weldable steel side-members.

ENGINE: Sitec Series II 235 (Isuzu 6HK1TCN) 6-cylinder 24-valve SOHC, 7790cc, 17.5:1 compression, 115 x 125mm bore x stroke. Power : (DIN-NET): 176kW (236hp)@2400rpm, (JIS Gross): 182kW (244hp)@2400rpm. Torque: (DIN-NET): 706Nm (521lb.ft)@1450rpm, (JIS Gross): 731Nm (539lb.ft)@1450rpm. Electronically controlled variable nozzle turbocharger with air-to-air intercooler; Direct-injection highpressure common rail system; Two-stage electronically cooled EGR with exhaust; Diesel Particulate Diffuser (DPD). ADR 80/02 (Euro4) compliant.

TRANSMISSION: Isuzu MZX-6P 6-speed manual with air-assisted shift; synchromesh on gears 2-6, triple cone synchromesh on gears 2 and 3, integral oil pump provides full pressure lubrication. PTO provision on LHS of transmission case, PTO drive from counter gear.

SUSPENSION: Font single stage alloy taper leaf springs, double acting shock absorbers; rear multi-leaf main spring, multi-leaf helper spring.

WHEELS & TYRES: 22.5x7.5-inch eight-stud steel wheels, Michelin 144/142K XZY tubeless 22.5/10R tyres.

FUEL CAPACITY: 200L steel tank MISC: Full coach Thermo King X700 heat-cool air system; 24-volt electrical system, 90-amp alternator, 4.5kW starter motor.

“See us at The Australian Bus + Coach Show 2013”

Why despair about rising fuel costs?

Just lighten up Dramatically rising fuel costs are driving operators to look for vehicles that deliver proven operational economy. It’s a well known fact that heavier vehicles use more fuel but Optare’s fully integral buses are designed from the outset to be incredibly strong and durable, but with significantly reduced overall weight. This, together with a selection of industry-renowned heavy duty driveline options, means that our vehicles consistently beat the competition to deliver class-leading fuel efficiency. Innovative designs, advanced engineering and precise balance of performance and economy ensure that every Optare bus looks as good on your bottom line as it does on the road.

Optare - good for the environment, good for the bottom line!

For more information, call the manufacturer of choice

1300 OPTARE www.optarebus.com.au

Operator

Photography: Fabian Cotter

046 www.truckandbus.net.au

Game of

Thrones

Crown Coaches in Nunawading,Victoria, has not only been around servicing a vast transport corridor for a good many years in Melbourne and beyond, it’s been doing it with a sense of benevolence, class and style. Fabian Cotter caught up with managing director and National Road Transport Hall of Famer Victor Haoust. www.truckandbus.net.au 047

A

“

nd that’s what it comes down to, what future generations inherit,

seemingly ‘do the right thing’ by people, really, that sets Crown Coaches apart.

300,000km per month.

“If we don’t transport the sick kids [to

our kids and grandkids and theirs.

It’s about what we put into the environment - or not,” a philosophical Victor Haoust said over his shoulder, as we took a

This may go some way to explaining the specialised, diligent care taken and concern shown by the company each day, and in almost every way, to help accommodate and

their schools etc] it often means they never actually ever get to go out,” Haoust explained, and with the magnitude of the ramifications that could mean for many of the students in

quick spin around Nunawading in one of the BCI fully electric buses he has on the Crown Coaches fleet.

Quite proud of the fact Crown Coaches was

comfort the hundreds of young ‘special needs’ passengers that Crown Coaches ferries from their homes to numerous schools each day.

Actually, it’s something like around 1500 of

terms of psychological therapy and mental stimulation, one would imagine, their daily transports needs is in no way ever seen as some flippant flight of fancy by Crown.

the first operator in Australia to run electric buses full-time on its services (three of), as well as the first to use some BCI hybrid

them each day, door to door, throughout Melbourne’s eastern suburbs – challenging and testing the patience and nerve of its

“My biggest fear as a bus operator is that one phone call that comes [about a bus accident]. What if wheelchairs were not tied

buses (five of), these vehicles symbolise not only the ‘leading technology’ mindset the company exudes throughout its history, but

‘carer’ staff who do their utmost to ensure the kids have the best trips possible, be it a good day or an anticipated tantrum-yielding

down, if there was no clamping,” Haoust said, outlining the rigorous safety standards that Crown Coaches follows and implements

also give insight into the social responsibility the organisation adheres to from the top down thanks to Haoust.

And it is that sense of duty, morality and even just a warmingly welcome desire to

‘bad day’ once and a while with some. All up, Crown Coaches provides school bus runs for the Victorian Government Department of Education and private school runs with the fleet as a whole travelling approximately

with earnest conviction to ensure the utmost preparation for any possible worst-case scenarios, God forbid.

Since starting in 1967 with just three vehicles, Crown Coaches expanded and

1

1 Just part of the fleet ready for the

afternoon school rush.

2 Crown Coaches has a selection of BCI

hybrids and electrics.

3 Managing director Victor Haoust,

Aims and Objectives Committing ourselves to continuous improvement and reinforcement of our standards of excellence in all aspects of the business with a particular emphasis on customer safety, customer satisfaction, reliability and environmental sustainability.

Employing and retaining the best possible personnel through providing excellent and enjoyable working conditions and environment.

Appropriate training to enable our team to deliver excellent, safe service, empowering and encouraging them to take initiative and to be accountable for their role in the company.

A high level of trust and mutual respect to all the team members.

Providing a superior and innovative level of customer service and constantly striving to improve customer relationship, from first contact to the completion of the job.

Utilising new safety technology, running a world-class workshop and providing training in these areas in order to continually improve the safety and reliability of the fleet and the company as a whole.

Reinforcing our commitment to environmental sustainability, continually assessing and utilising new technologies to ensure ongoing environmental improvements. We believe that sound environmental policies contribute to our overall competitive strength whilst benefiting our customers, our employees and the wider community.

048 www.truckandbus.net.au

in action.

“Every child has a 2

3

Behind The Scenes

The different colour livery on certain buses are all distinctly Crown, and stand out around town.

“We have dedicated education vehicles with different restraints and seating. Every child has a different need, and every child is unique so every bus is unique essentially,” explained Daniel Lowrie – workshop foreman, who is responsible for the maintenance of the entire fleet. “So we have dedicated buses to dedicated runs and we try to keep that vehicle on that run. The chaperones and supervisors go through special training, and for each vehicle they know their own students as do the drivers, so you usually find the driver and supervisor also stay with the vehicle on a run. Occasionally you have to swap things around, but that’s not very often.

“We have three electric buses in operation, but are currently going through some upgrades on two and they’re in trail periods so we won’t know how successful they are until [later].

“The BCI hybrids are on Euro5 chassis, set up uniquely. It’s basically a flat deck with only a few chairs in there and there’s space for wheelchair access. We had a few issues with the Cummins stuff initially, but we got on top of it and we are having a good run now. Can’t complain [with these], actually.

These are a bit more robust, in terms of where they go, as electric have a range on them; they can only go a certain range before they have to be recharged. But these [hybrids] as long as there’s fuel in the tank and there’s AdBlue in the tank they’ll go and go and go.

And that’s the difference,” Lowrie said.

different need, every child is unique so every bus is unique.” evolved steadily throughout the years thanks to dedication to quality service, the natural absorption of neighbouring bus companies for a range of reasons, and a general need to run and maintain a state-of-the-art fleet of various seating capacities as per customer

to our community with the highest level of professionalism, safety and customer service.

To provide professional, safe, reliable and environmentally sustainable transport services to our community.”

Operating out of its Nunawading depot,

Crown Coaches employs in excess of 250 staff including management, drivers, supervisors and mechanical staff.

All of its coaches are fitted with seatbelts and all recent additions to the fleet have ABS and traction control safety mechanisms.

demands - or at least how it was perceived what customers should be treated to.

An Australian family owned business, the

Crown Coaches Pty. Ltd. transports customers to destinations around Melbourne and Australia and aims to minimise the effects

The Crown Coaches fleet is serviced on site in the Crown Repair workshop according to strict service schedules, according to Haoust,

current fleet of about 130 vehicles – 70 of which are dedicated to transporting special needs kids - comprises minibuses carrying up

of its business operations on the environment by pursuing, obtaining and implementing environmentally sustainable solutions, it’s

and the company has its own spray-booth facilities. It includes hardware like: Mercedes 0500 53-57 seaters, Mercedes 0500 Low-

to 21 passengers, mid-size vehicles carrying up to 43 passengers and full-size coaches with a maximum capacity of 57 passengers.

All its coaches offer wheelchair-carrying capacity. In the mid-size range, Crown offers

stated.

To that end, it claims it always has and will investigate and promote the adoption of ecologically sustainable work practices and operations; prevent the pollution of the

floor 45-seaters (about 30 0500s), Mercedes 1225 41-seaters, the first Mercedes-BCI 0510 series, BCI hybrid 43-seaters, BCI Proma electric 28-seaters, Mitsubishi Rosa 24-seaters, Toyota Coaster 21-seaters, Nissan

Australia’s first road-registered hybrid coaches and 100 per cent plug-in electric coaches powered by 100 per cent renewable resources

environment as a result of work practices and operations; monitor, review and improve current environmental measures already

and Hino wheelchair-accessible coaches.

It covers all types of events and uses such as conferences, airport transfers, corporate

in conjunction with electricity supplier AGL. It’s mission statement is simple enough, but one that should serve as inspiration

implemented; use materials and resources efficiently; provide information regarding its environmental initiatives through its website;

events, wedding guest transfers, multi-coach movements, matched coaches, snow trips, social clubs, Probus groups and senior

to many other operators Australia wide: “To be the preeminent leader in the bus and coach industry by providing

and give its employees resources to actively adopt its policy. It won the Bus Industry Confederation National Environment and

citizen’s groups, interstate tours, and bespoke winery tours, shopping tours, city sightseeing and coastal / rural tours to name a few, plus a

environmentally innovative transport services

Innovation Awards in 2009.

range of school needs.

www.truckandbus.net.au 049

It’s good to be King $259,900 Excl. ORC & GST

14 Be quICK! Pre-Sale special for 20 units only!

Get $10,000 off for orders placed before 30th Sep 2013 6120 – 57 Seater School/Charter Bus

CBT-HVA-0913-SD

Please visit

www.kinglong.com.au for more information

Call or email us for further information VIC, TAS & NSW

SA, WA & QLD

Stephen Long m. 0409 488 834 e. stephen@hvagroup.com.au

Graham Weekley m. 0417 160 483 e. graham@hvagroup.com.au

Anthony Fisicaro

National Sales manager m. 0400 968 106 e. anthony@hvagroup.com.au

130-132 Freight Drive Somerton VIC Australia 3062 t. (03) 9305 2299 f. (03) 8339 0265 e. info@hvagroup.com.au

Spotlight On

60mins with...

Jan Gill

member of Belt Up for Safety (B.U.S.) Action Group, spokesperson for North Coast Parents Bus Action Group (NSW) and parent.

The Belt Up for Safety (B.U.S.) Action Group was established in 2001. It has since been lobbying for safer conditions on school buses travelling on country roads.

Fabian Cotter chats with spokesperson Jan Gill. www.truckandbus.net.au 051

Q

Hi, Jan. Thanks for joining us.

Please tell us how and why

Unfortunately, the contracts between Transport for NSW and companies that

Belt Up For Safety started, and what are its top aims and objectives. Also, what kind of people make up the membership?

provide school bus services in rural and regional NSW don’t require these ADR 68 compliant buses to be used on any routes.

In some regions, such as the mid-North

JG. “We have two aims, which we know will improve safety: 1. Children not standing or sitting in bus aisles or stairwells when travelling on rural roads with a speed limit

Coast where I live, we have many high-risk routes. The risks are ever increasing as both the population and the traffic volumes grow.

Using the Pacific Highway as an example,

of 80km/h or higher or on unsealed roads.

2. Modern buses should be used on these routes - fitted with lap/sash seatbelts and

the number of vehicles, including heavy vehicles, is increasing and the number of children travelling on school buses is

high-backed seats, with all other Australian Design Rule 68 safety structures and features. The Belt Up for Safety Action

also growing. There are still hundreds of kilometres of this Highway that remain undivided – so it’s basically the same

Group formed after a teenage boy died on a school bus north of Ulladulla in NSW. B.U.S. Action Group includes safety experts, parents, grandparents and other community members interested in children’s safety. I joined this Group after a teenage girl died when she was thrown from a bus in Urunga a few years ago. I am also a member of the North Coast Parents Bus Action Group as my 11-year-old child travels on a school bus along the Pacific Highway to Urunga each weekday. Last year NRMA members voted the Pacific Highway at Urunga the worst road in NSW.”

road we had in 1989. The only difference between then and now is that there are more hazards and more children exposed to these hazards. Despite the increased risk factors, many of the school buses operating in this region are built to urban standards with low-backed hard seats and most don’t have seatbelts. Three school principals I’ve spoken to in the area say that another major bus crash is just a question of time – only next time it could be a bus full of children. Professor Danny Cass, the Westmead Children’s Hospital trauma head, also views the absence of seatbelts on rural and regional school buses as a ‘disaster waiting to happen’. Where we have newer buses they are stronger and better built, but this aspect alone is not enough, as the five people killed on coaches since 1995 weren’t wearing a seatbelt.”

Q. Is it fair to assume that if there have been a certain number of school bus-related deaths and accidents, in terms of seatbelt use, over the past, say, 15 years, that this number may well be reached again going forward if seatbelts on buses are not made mandatory. Or will newer buses be better built and thus that aspect alone reduce such

Q. What has been the biggest stumbling block faced by your organisation in reaching

numbers? If so, why?

JG. “After the tragic 1989 bus crashes on the Pacific Highway near Grafton and

its objectives, and what measures are in place to help overcome them?

JG. “Lack of understanding of the risks

Kempsey, where 55 people died and 54 were seriously injured, the Federal Government introduced coach and bus

our children face every day is a major one.

Also, transport ministers tend to focus on Sydney’s transport issues. The bus

design laws. Australian Design Rule (ADR) 68 requires all coaches built after 1995 to have seatbelts and other important bus

industry continues to state that bus travel is much safer than travelling in the family car. They say it’s up to seven times safer

occupant protection features, such as improved seatbelt and seat anchorages, emergency exits etc. We have not seen a coach passenger wearing a seatbelt die or

and that there is more risk of injury or death occurring either before getting on, or after getting off, the bus than inside the bus.

This ‘7 times safer’ figure is based on an

receive a serious injury in any incident or crash in Australia since 1995. Our members merely want the same chance of survival for children that coach passengers have had for

analysis of data that includes low-speed urban (mainly Sydney) bus travel, so is obviously inaccurate for travel on highspeed rural roads. The NSW School Bus

18 years.

Safety Community Advisory Committee –

052 www.truckandbus.net.au

which included safety experts and BusNSW - reported its findings to the NSW Transport

your organisation’s aims are met? Or are all facts known and it’s just some sort of

obvious that these seats won’t stop a child from being thrown around if a bus travelling at

Minister in October last year, after examining the issues for 18 months. The Committee found that the risk of injury to students in rural and regional NSW is almost three times

procrastination and hesitation involved?

JG. “A decade ago the facts and issues weren’t widely understood. Since Western Australia and South Australia began fitting

high speed stops suddenly.

Our members have seen and heard about the injuries children sustain from bus crashes over the years and fear the worst, so of

greater for those children inside a bus than outside it and the risk is double compared with Sydney metropolitan bus travel.

Perhaps an equally large stumbling block is

seatbelts in 2005, state and territory governments in Australia have been forced to improve bus safety, after multiple bus crashes which attract media attention and outcry from

course they’re passionate about this cause.

Some bus operators outlay their own money to provide seatbelted school buses. Why do they do this if rural bus travel is safe?

the lack of co-ordination between the Federal and NSW Governments on this issue. In 2007 the Howard Government announced that $40

parents. NSW remains the only state that is dragging the chain by not banning children from standing on buses travelling in high-risk

Because bus drivers, bus operators and parents know that if a school bus without seatbelts has a crash with another large

million would be spent on fitting seatbelts on rural and regional buses. So far only $7 million has been spent and very little of that amount

conditions. The only states without seatbelt installation policies are NSW and Victoria. My view is that we should start by addressing

vehicle, multiple fatalities and severe injuries would result, just as occurred in the Kempsey and Grafton crashes.

has been spent in NSW. This is because bus companies that apply for the $25,000 per bus to fit or retrofit seatbelts then have to reduce the number of children they carry to the number of seats on the bus. Where they are paid per child, not per bus, by Transport for NSW there’s no incentive to do that. In other words, the Transport for NSW contracts and the Federal Government funding program aren’t working together to achieve the change that’s so needed.

We continue to provide information to the community through the media and Facebook and we lobby government.”

standing and safety standards on buses travelling on our highest risk country routes.

Governments are fully aware of the safety benefits of seatbelts, which we have had in cars in Australia since 1972. Cost has been a main factor – and this was not helped in the past by the exaggerated cost estimates given to government.

If people carefully considered the actual costs involved in implementing these changes and compared them with the savings gained through the reduction of injuries, as well as compared them with other spending on transport improvements, they would realise that it’s really very affordable and smart spending. Last October the NSW School Bus Safety Committee recommended spending just $7 million in NSW this year. Professor Danny Cass from Westmead Children’s Hospital has said that the lifelong treatment of just one child with a severe spinal injury is

Bus operators have been fed biased statistics. The 2012 School Bus Safety Committee report includes statistics that show rural bus travel to be unsafe. The report recommends immediate action by the NSW Government.

Australian workers - including bus drivers – have workers’ health and safety legislation to protect them. All bus drivers have to wear a seatbelt, but our children aren’t being offered the same level of protection.”

JG. “The NRMA, the Country Mayors Association of NSW and the NSW Greens

around $13 million to $15 million.”

governments. Private schools with their own bus will need a slightly larger budget when

are among the organisations that associate themselves with us. The Safety Institute of Australia, the Australasian College of Road

Q. Why do you think your members, who are mostly parents, are vehement in their convictions to get seatbelts on school buses

replacing it. It’s time to draw a line in the sand and not allow any new bus that will be put onto a high-speed or other high-risk route to

Safety, the Australasian College of Surgeons, the Lawyers Alliance, Country Women’s Association, VIEW and many health and

made mandatory, given that statistics freely available conversely indicate that bus travel has hitherto been a relatively safe way to

be built or imported unless it complies with ADR 68. I believe we need priority to be given to replacing the older buses travelling on the

emergency service officers also support our cause. Some bus companies in rural and regional areas have publicly supported

travel per capita, per annum?

JG. “Any person can see that a seatbelt will help save the lives of children or reduce

highest risk routes and we also need a ban on children standing on these buses.”

us and have bought buses with seatbelts.

Financial gain is not a consideration. We are all just simply working together for the sake of children’s safety.”

injuries in a high-speed bus crash. It is counterproductive to make your child wear a seatbelt in a car or coach, but allow them to run around a bus distracting the driver while

Q. Do you think mandatory seatbelts on school buses will lead to seatbelts on all types of buses on all types of routes? If so, again, do buses’ comparatively safe

Q. What information do you have that you think if more people – be it the general public, businesses, or governments –

travelling at 100km/h. It is almost as unsafe to allow them to travel in a bus with hard, low-backed seats designed for low speed travel in the city. Some of these seats still

travel record go any way to assuage your demand for seatbelts needing to become so widespread? Is there a difference between kids using them or adults using them, and if

knew about would help change things so

have metal bars across the top. It’s pretty

so then why?

Q. Who supports your organisation and why have they been so prepared to associate themselves with you? How do these associations help your cause? Do they have any financial gain at heart by supporting the Belt Up For Safety group?

Q. Who do you think should absorb the perceived costs involved in implementing bus seatbelts and over what timeframe do you realistically think it should happen? Or should no buses be allowed to run until they have seatbelts fitted?

JG. “They aren’t just perceived costs – there are real costs. Extra costs for travelling to and from school will be met by state

www.truckandbus.net.au 053

JG. “No. We are campaigning for equal safety standards for school buses and coaches travelling on the same high-risk rural roads. The risk is much higher on these roads compared to low-speed urban roads. We want rural children to have the best possible chance of survival and we know a seatbelt will do this. Kids are at a higher risk because they don’t watch the road and do things like lean over the back of the seat and swap seats in transit. Most primary aged students’ feet can’t reach the floor, so they can’t brace themselves and are flung towards or through the windscreen if a bus stops suddenly.”

coach passenger has died since 1995, when it became mandatory to have high-backed seats and lap/sash seatbelts, is evidence enough that there are benefits. Just think how you’d feel if your bus had a crash and killed and maimed children, simply because of inaction. Your driver will never fully recover and probably won’t want to drive a bus again. The repercussions for your company and throughout your community will have long-lasting effects. The cost to fit seatbelts is minor in the cost of a new bus and procrastinating won’t make it cheaper.

To NSW Transport Minister Berejiklian – please give this priority.”

Q. What message do you want to say directly to the bus operators out there who

Q. There are regulations in Australia restricting the maximum width a bus needs

Q. And finally, we spoke with a dealer principal of a major brand truck and bus outlet in Sydney recently and the topic of retrofitting seatbelts came up. Not only was he adamant the costs to do so would be exorbitant, but that in terms on engineering, older buses that were not designed for seatbelted seats would be a false economy in that the anchorage points of the seats themselves and the types of floor used would be weak points in a collision, thus rendering the entire retrofitting of seatbelts pointless. What are your thoughts?

JG. “Only buses that comply with Australian Design Rule 68 in all respects except for seatbelts are really suited to being

are yet to have seatbelts installed on their fleets? What do you want to say to the ones thinking about it? And what do you want

to be to operate on our roads, which eliminates newer and arguably safer buses from Europe to be used. Would you support

retrofitted, as they have the necessary seat anchorage strength. Many buses in NSW do comply with ADR 68 and school buses

to say to the government types who you believe are preventing seatbelts on school

the regulation changing if it meant wider but safer buses on our roads?

aren’t allowed to be more than 25 years old.

ADR 68 has been Commonwealth law for

buses becoming mandatory, or at least have

JG. “Yes, arguably is the right word, as ADR

18 years.

the ability to facilitate their implementation?

JG. “To bus operators without seatbelts –

68 is now being prescribed for new buses in other countries, as well as Europe because

At the very least we should have high padded seats. It’s been Federal law in the

your insurance premium will probably be reduced, your bus driver will be happier because the bus environment will be quieter

it’s proven itself to be an excellent design.

ADR 68’s 20g seat anchorages would have saved some of the children’s lives in the

United States since 1977 for all school buses to have high padded seats which reduce the chance of children being

and he/she will be able to concentrate on the road better and will have more peace of mind knowing that if there is a crash

tragic Swiss bus crash last year, as 10g seat anchorage - the European standard - wasn’t adequate, even though the bus was only

thrown around the bus if it stops suddenly.

Seatbelts are better. The point is that we currently have nothing. I see two Busways’

the children on board have a much better chance of surviving. Parents will complain less and you’ll have less incident reports to

travelling at 80km/h. No, we do not support wider buses. We have narrow sections on our major highways, so the risk of collision

buses each morning at Urunga that are 21 years old, with low hard seats with metal bars across them. They are on the Pacific

fill out.

To bus operators thinking about installing

with an oncoming large vehicle is high on these roads. The coach record in Australia

Highway travelling at 80km/h and have just dropped school kids off. That’s just Third

seatbelts – the fact not one seatbelted

is all the proof we need that ADR 68 buses

World standards!”

054 www.truckandbus.net.au

save lives and reduce injuries.”

Evaluated

Photography: Cristian Brunelli

Going The Distance Backing up Volgren’s release of the stunning new Optimus low-floor route bus is stablemate Endura for the school, charter coach or mining transport markets.With new styling cues and flexibility of customer specification, the Endura is aimed bang on target. Fabian Cotter reports.

056 www.truckandbus.net.au

www.truckandbus.net.au 057

Loads of room here, just choose your school, charter or mining bus spec!

S

ome of the greatest partnerships in history have been duos. Sonny

intends to use this flexibility of specification to corner all aspects of each market and looks

names for them.”

As he explains, there was a very

and Cher, Batman and Robin, Lennon and McCartney, Thelma and Louise, Itchy and Scratchy and who can forget the 1980s’ Vanilli and Milli? No wait,

set to be a seriously strong contender for Volgren against tough competition.

“It’s a significant change for a company to have two new products at the same time

extensive exercise done through a couple of ad agencies and through Volgren’s own employees, where they gave input for its people to have the opportunity to create the

that’s Milli Vanilli. Er… Anyway, whatever.

Look, the point is there have been some absolute legend twosomes in our time, and in the capital vehicle world Volgren’s Optimus and Endura - covering a range of bus and coach applications between them – could well make their own name for themselves in the Australasian bus and coach market over many years to come.

Designed for school bus, charter coach and mining industry uses, the facelifted Endura

[highlighting the Volgren ‘family’], considering that in the bus industry you only see a new model every 10 or 15 years,” explained Volgren’s general manager of sales and marketing Tony Kerr.

“We’ve done this – albeit that the school bus is a facelift – as part of an evolutionary change to both products,” he added.

“Volgren has never previously named its buses so one of the key aspects from a marketing perspective was to create some

name of its low-floor bus and school bus.

“This was an interesting one again as it [school bus name] had to denote what we were about, as we had some key criteria.

In the end, we got a lot of good feedback and managed to find the name Endura – which was a derivative of endurance, which effectively meant long lasting. So we felt that typified the Volgren product because it is a product built to last 25 years and the aluminium structure resonates with the

“...the innovations, practicality of new design features and general Simple and elegant lines here along the flank. The body should hold up well in tough mining conditions.

058 www.truckandbus.net.au

A cut-down version of the Optimus’s powerful Driver’s Switch Panel (DSP).

customers and it resonates with the market for that whole-of-life component, which is one of

up in Rio, in Moolumbi or Gove, where they’d been running them for 28 years and we

it to look and took in customer feedback as to how it needs to be. With evolutionary

the key attributes of Volgren,” Kerr explained.

In terms of the Volgren Endura school/ charter bus, which has also been very successful in mining areas, the company says

actually have a letter from them that outlines [their] chassis were rusted to hell because of the environment but the bodies were in sensational knick”.

change sought, not revolutionary change, the key point became giving it the ‘family look’ to complement the new Optimus, so the ‘Volgren family’ could be seen – similar

because the specifications can be changed to fit all three applications it’s a bonus.

“Our bus was very functional. We had anecdotal evidence from many customers that our body not only lasted the distance but that if chassis were rusted then customers could literally, if they wanted, take the body off and put it onto another chassis and off it goes again because the body was in such good shape.” explained Kerr.

“There was a particular customer working

So with the Volgren school bus getting great feedback about functionality and the whole-of-life cost aspect, the company still felt that the bus looked pretty plain Jane. As this was the first real collaboration between Volgren and Maropolo since the Brazilian company bought its 75 per cent share of the company, two Marcopolo engineers came out to meet with two Volgren engineers, they took designs back, they did moulds and messed around with how Volgren wanted

to the automotive industry, where in the car industry similar characteristics permeate a model’s ‘bloodline’.

“So where you can see an Audi or a Beemer or a Benz, we wanted to make sure that this is ‘a Volgren’ and it’s seen to be a Volgren, so hence we made the necessary changes and without making it go full coach/charter look we significantly enhanced the front and the rear and we also changed the racks internally which we are pleased to say we’ve had a lot

pleasing ‘family’ aesthetic should hold these two in fine stead.’

www.truckandbus.net.au 059

1

2

3

of positive customer feedback on, particularly from the BusVic show just recently.”

“The mining sector is going to have an impact in our industry, I think, because

life. Normally an operator would buy the bus and he’s got it for 20 years plus, [but] in the

“So we think with both products we are very well positioned as the market leader in Australia to continue to push into the market the change that is needed for optimising the

there were many major projects, some with between two and three hundred buses in total that have been shelved over the last twelve months, purely because of R&D and capital

mining space those buses an operator might only have for five to seven years and then they come back to market, so an important factor in our value proposition is that the residual

whole-of-life costs for the customer, making our bus look better, creating a functionally more effective bus and probably more

expenditure being cut in the mining sector where they were looking for the potential opportunities - where those opportunities

position of a Volgren is significant. You only have to look in the second-hand used-vehicle market because there aren’t many Volgrens

importantly an aesthetically pleasing bus,” Kerr said.

Kerr added that Volgren doesn’t get a lot of involvement from Marcopolo – aside from the benefits of that company’s global purchasing power, they keep a close eye on Volgren to ensure it is delivering what Marcopolo expects – but that Volgren is still very much its own organisation and works closely with the South American enterprise.

don’t exist today. But they might in the future and that’s going to be interesting.

“Our Endura is a product that has had a lot of success in that mining sector and certainly in the hard operating environments; you know there’s nothing better than having an aluminium, Co-bolted Volgren bus working in that environment,” Kerr stated.

“Least of which the key issue for us is that the mining sector is a shorter cycle in bus

out there because people grab them.”

While some punters may think the Optimus and Endura are still the basic CR228 and SC221 with modified ends and some interior changes - with the Endura having handrails built into the parcel racks, for example the innovations, practicality of new design features and general pleasing ‘family’ aesthetic should hold these two in fine stead as new entities for the company.

“…the specifications can be changed to fit all three applications.”

4

BUS SPECS MODEL: Volgren Endura BODY: School/Charter/Mining Bus; Aluminium; Volgren Co-bolt system; Passenger capacity – 57. Length - 12.3m, Width: 2.5m, Height: 3.4m CHASSIS: Volvo B7R Euro5 MISC: Air-con - Coachair XT-353 brushless motors; New modular luggage rack system; seating - McConnell School Safe

060 www.truckandbus.net.au

1 The Volgren Endura does look hot on the road, no doubt.

2 Plenty of space to swing a cat in. Disclaimer: Just kidding

about the cat. Good space here, though.

3 Daytime-running LED lights - A very Audi look, perhaps?

4 Both front and rear ends were re-vamped. Nice work!

Australian bus + coach show 2 0 1 3 S Y D N E Y

S H O W G R O U N D

25th & 26th September 2013

See the latest at the largest Australian Bus & Coach Show ever!

Dates

If buses are your business you simply can’t afford to miss the 2013 Australian Bus & Coach Show at its new home, Sydney Showground.

Venue

Wednesday 25th September Thursday 26th September

• Free entry to exhibition • Over $50m worth of buses and coaches on display in one indoor area

The Dome & Halls Sydney Showground Sydney Olympic Park

• 100+ exhibition booths displaying products, services and tourism information • Free technical and operational workshops

proudly supported by

• Social functions to network with industry professionals

For online visitor and social event registration please visit

www.busshow.com.au

for NSW

Working Wheels

The Last Hurrah?

A new Holden ute is always big news, but is this the icon’s swan song?

Geoff Paradise reports

W

ith Ford Australia pulling the pin in 2016 and Holden going

on record suggesting the end of the Commodore is nigh, is the purchase of a VF ute good sense or folly?

Damn it! Buy one. In fact, buy two; one to drive now and one to keep. Who doesn’t love a new Holden ute? GMH has done well with the VF ute although they cheaped out with the rear sheetmetal, but that’s a small price to pay as they have done wonders elsewhere.

They say they have added cutting-edge technology and features to its famous Ute and reduced recommended retail prices (RRP) by up to $5,500 across the range.

The range-opening, 3.6L SIDI V6 automatic Holden Ute has a new RRP of just $32,990, down $2500, and comes standard with the premium features Holden has introduced across the VF range including Auto Park Assist, front and rear parking sensors, remote vehicle start (automatic models only) and a rear-view camera.

VF Ute also comes standard with the class-

leading Holden MyLink infotainment system.

Like an 8-inch, high-resolution colour touch screen, MyLink features enhanced voice recognition, full iPod® integration including Siri Eyes Free integration* and embedded app technology including Pandora® and Stitcher SmartRadio™.

Holden has rolled out its new VF vehicle

slip differential (manual only), exterior sports styling and sports seats, projector headlamps, LED daylight running lights and soft tonneau cover.

With the same features and technology, the famous SS Ute adds the powerful 6.0L Gen IV V8 engine and comes standard with a sixspeed manual transmission. The new RRP for

technology, including electric park brake with automatic release, Hill Start Assist, Trailer Sway Control and remote vehicle start (automatic transmission only), across every

the manual SS Ute is $38,990, down $3500 on the previous model.

At the top of the performance table sits SS V Redline. Holden has added a significant

model in the Ute range.

The first sports model in the Ute range is the SV6 manual with an RRP of $32,990. Standard with a manual transmission, SV6 is also powered by the 3.6L SIDI V6 with significantly more features and a price rollback of $5500.

SV6 gains the following features over the highly specified range opening Holden Ute such as Blind Spot Alert, Reverse Traffic Alert, FE2 sports suspension, 18-inch alloy wheels and chrome exhaust tip, limited-

number of advanced new technological features, yet still reduced the RRP for the manual SS V Redline Ute by $1500 to $48,490.

In addition to the SS V-Series features, Redline adds Forward Collision Alert, Lane Departure Warning and Head-up Display driver safety technology. Redline also adds the updated sports-tuned FE3 suspension package, Brembo® brakes, forged 19-inch alloys as well as wider rear wheels for extra traction and competition mode with launch control and track settings.

Buy one get one free? We wish! But get two if you can afford it - while they are still around maybe.

062 www.truckandbus.net.au

UTE SPECS MODEL: VF Commodore Ute ENGINE: 3.6L V6 or 6.0L Gen IV V8 POWER: 3.6L – 210kW/350Nm 6.0L V8 – 270kW/530Nm FUEL CAPACITY: 71 litres PRICE: Starting at $32,990 (V6), $38,990 (V8) and $48,490 for the fire breathing V8 MISC: Plenty of improvements, sharp looks, re-jigged interior (at last). Prices have been cut from previous models.

Hot Stuff

By Fabian Cotter

Gadgets on the go

We’ve scoured the globe for all the latest gadgets and gizmos for when you are on the go.

Google Glass

WHAT? WHO? HOW MUCH? CONTACT?

IN WHAT MAY become the most revolutionary, day-to-day gadget on the go for billions of commuters and users worldwide, Google’s Glass glasses was recently released for testing worldwide and the results have been quite impressive, indeed.

For as many computerised things we are now so accustomed to carry around with us, reliant on our hands and arms for use, Google’s snapshot of future mobile computing involves a pair of glasses with a small attached lens, or screen. Add voice activation and you can just imagine the implications and applications of its use.

Google Glass Google, USA Test model USD$1500 www.google.com/glass

Best described as a computer that you can ‘wear’, the 50-gram lightweight and comfortable glasses cost select developers USD$1500 – the same amount 8000 competition-winning ‘Explorers’ had to pay, too.

The screen of the Glass is just above the user’s right eye (we assume left-eye models will be available in future) and gives the illusion of, say, a 25-inch TV screen being about 2 metres in front of you, it’s claimed. This makes it ideal for clearly relaying information from your smartphone or personal computer while on the go. It’s got a touchpad on the side and is Wi-Fi and Bluetooth ready, too. Charging?

Try via micro USB. Wicked!

The potential is seemingly endless for daily use: voiceactivated facebooking, video and picture taking, and GPS maps so you can get around town without wandering around like a goose – the screen orientating itself commensurate with your head position as you turn it left to right etc. Audio responses are heard through a technology coined Bone Conduction – which means no earphone necessary. It’s an amazing piece of kit it seems and will almost be essential for commuters and travellers in the near future. Privacy issues? Let’s see how the die rolls…

Lumia 1020 THE RAW FACT straight up is this: it’s a mind-bending 41-megapixel digital smartphone camera from Nokia and while that might seem like overkill to the masses, for pure pub convo bragging rights with your mates you just can’t go wrong.

Let’s face it, unless you have a bit of an eye for a good shot and intend to blow up your pics for printing on big canvasses for a wall or needed to for production in a publication or brochure, something like 3-megapixels is plenty for your normal happy snaps to flick through and show family and friends. But in the

modern age for even better clarity and resolution, 41 megapixels is more than Joe average can poke a stick at.

Perhaps somewhat a ‘hero’ product for a flagging Nokia company these days, it might be just what’s needed for the Finnish electronics giant to catch up with its Samsung and Apple rivals.

Using a technique called Dual Capture, it takes a high-resolution 38-megapixel shot for editing purposes and a cheeky social media-friendly one. So that’s 38MP effective, 7152 x 5368 pixels, with Carl Zeiss optics, optical

WHAT? WHO? HOW MUCH? CONTACT?

Lumia 1020 Nokia, Finland USD$299.99 on 24-month contract www.nokia.com

image stabilization, auto/manual focus, Xenon and LED flash. The video is 1080p@30fps, 4x lossless digital zoom with video light, and the secondary shot is 1.2MP with 720p@30fps.

Using Windows-based software, the Lumia will be sold in the US USD$299.99 on contract, and will be available in other world markets later.

Google Chromecast

WHAT? WHO? HOW MUCH? CONTACT?

Google Chromecast Google, USA USD$35 www.google.com/chromecast

Look, you didn’t have to be The Pink Panther to work out that you didn’t really need a VCR, DVD or Blue-Ray player to watch movies via your computer screen, and once you worked out your laptop also usually had internet access then, whooshka, it was game on for a proper multimedia experience.

The portability of such shenanigans would suffer, though, meaning travellers would always have to cart around a netbook, for instance, to watch moves or access the internet, and by definition there was no need to ‘double up’ by running it through a TV for a bigger screen experience.

And this is where Google’s

Chromecast comes into play.

Basically, it’s a nifty and affordable – try only USD$35 – thumb-drive-sized device with an HDMI end that connects to most modern TVs and allows internet access and media cloud streaming visible on the bigger TV screen. No laptop needed etc, and it comes with three months’ worth of free

Netflix access.

It’s early days and perhaps its full potential is yet to be realised, but with a low entry price and a stack of global interest, it’s just the kind of soon-to-be essential gadget that travellers will find it remiss not to have in hotel rooms while away for business, and just means less stuff to carry.

064Money Matters

Paul Clitheroe Cutting back on the bank and card fees

O

ver the next few weeks Australians will pore over a range of bank

fees and no overdrawn fees.

Bankwest’s Zero account has also wiped a

statements in order to complete our income tax returns. It’s a good opportunity to discover which accounts are charging excess fees, and if you reckon you’re

range of common fees though you will need to deposit at least $2000 each month into the account. Your wage or salary should cover this.

ING Direct’s Orange Everyday Account

paying too much it’s time to take your business elsewhere I say.

A recent industry report shows bank fees

charges no monthly account keeping fees and you can use any ATM in Australia without paying ATM fees as long as your withdrawal is

continue to gouge a hole in our finances. The average Australian household currently pays just under $9 each week in bank charges.

It may not be much in isolation, but it adds up. Over the course of a year it works out to around $465. Over 10 years those fees are starting to approach $5000. I reckon that’s money we could all put to better use.

If you’re not happy with the fees charged on your everyday account there are plenty of opportunities available to get a better deal. If

for $200 or more.

These are just some of the accounts that make it easy to save on fees. Take a look at comparison sites like Mozo or RateCity for more options.

Even if you select a zero-fee account it pays to be mindful of your own banking behaviour.

A recent survey by consumer group Choice found around half the nation’s credit card users aren’t clear about the interest rate charged by their card.

a card debt of $3000 (about the average) you could be paying annual interest of $690.

At the other end of the spectrum you could pay much less, like 9.25 per cent with cards offered by Community First Credit Union or Greater Building Society. On the same $3000 card balance that would bring your annual interest charge down to around $278 - a yearly saving of $412.

There’s a wide selection of balance transfer offers that will, for a set period, drop your card rate to zero. However there are downsides.

The low or zero rate typically only applies to the amount transferred. New purchases can attract interest of 20 per cent.

“Look at comparison sites like Mozo or RateCity for more options.” you’re a pensioner, student, or you’re opening an account for a child, ask your financial institution about fee-free account options.

Even if you don’t fall into one of these categories, there are a number of transaction accounts available that have virtually done

While the Reserve Bank has lowered the cash rate over the past year, the benefits have flowed largely to home loan customers. Rates on credit cards have remained stubbornly high, with many cards charging around 20 per cent.

That’s more than three times what you could be

away with fees altogether.

As a guide, National Australia Bank offers a

paying for a home loan.

At the top end of the scale, some cards

Classic Bank account that charges no monthly

charge as much as 23 per cent. At that rate, on

More worrying, with the slate cleared on the old card, there’s not much stopping the cardholder from reloading not one, but two cards, with fresh purchases, potentially worsening their debt burden.

If you have a growing card debt, check the rate you’re paying and see if you could get a better deal elsewhere. We can now nominate our own credit limit on new cards so if you switch to a cheaper card, be sure to keep the limit low. Cut up your current card - one card is more than enough, and let the issuer know you’d like to cancel the card or you’ll continue to be charged annual fees.

If you just can’t see yourself making progress with a growing card debt, it can be worth using a personal loan to pay off the balance and get rid of the plastic altogether. The fixed term means there is an end date for the debt and there’s a good chance the rate on a personal loan could be less than your card rate. Mutuals like building societies and credit unions tend to offer some of the best deals on personal loans.

Paul Clitheroe is a founding director of financial planning firm ipac, chairman of the Australian Government Financial Literacy Board and chief commentator for Money magazine. Visit www.paulsmoney.com.au for more information.

064 www.truckandbus.net.au

volvo hybrid technology for greener cities The new Volvo B5RLE Hybrid is not only the most fuel-efficient Volvo city chassis, thanks to the ability of running with the diesel engine shut off, but it’s also reliable regardless of driveline technology.

Add to that silent and emission-free boarding and take off, it’s a winner.

Are you ready to team up for green efficiency?

Hybrid bus first time on display To find out more, visit our stand at the Australian Bus and Coach show or visit our website volvobuses.com.au.

we won’t be beaten for value!

With Up to

Top Selling Bus in its class for

9 years*

25 Seats

Including the driver’s, Rosa has up to

4 more than Coaster

12 Months Comprehensive Insurance Now Included At No Extra Cost

†

To find out why more people choose Rosa, call 1300 429 134 or visit fuso.com.au *Rosa is Australia’s top-selling bus in its class for the last nine years based on Vfacts sales volumes 2004-2012. †This offer is available from participating Fuso dealers on new orders for new trucks and buses placed between 1 May and 31 December 2013. Excludes national fleets, government and rental buyers. Insurance arranged by Fuso Financial, a registered business name licensed by Mitsubishi Fuso Truck & Bus Corporation to Mercedes-Benz Financial Services Australia Pty Ltd ABN 73 074 134 517 AFSL 247271 as an agent of the underwriter QBE Insurance (Australia) Limited ABN 78 003 191 035 AFSL 239545. Please see the Product Disclosure Statement and Policy Wording booklet for full terms and conditions. Insurance cover cannot be exchanged for cash or a discount off the purchase price of the vehicle. Full terms and conditions available from participating Fuso dealers or www.fuso.com.au. Fuso is distributed by Mercedes-Benz Australia/Pacific Pty Ltd ACN 004 411 410.