Cbt21 for website lowres

coach&bus www.truckandbus.net.au Issue 21 $6.60 incl. GST

BusVic 2015 Massive Show Report

High Roller

VOLGREN DOUBLE DECK - VICTORIA'S SECRET!

INTERVIEW: Sean Copeland

FEATURE: Higer H8200 Platinum GUIDE: Bus Air-conditioning

TECH: Willie LCD Bus

HIGER’S NEW BUS & COACH RANGE

There’s a Higer for every purpose PLUS COMING IN 2015 City Bus 4x4 Bus Large Tour Coach

Higer has a wide range of 28 to 57 seat buses designed specifically for local conditions. Best-in-class components and standard safety features include ABS, ASR, lap sash seat belts and reversing camera on every model. With the addition of EBS and ESC Higer ensures maximum safety, comfort and class-leading reliability.

Combine this with an extensive dealer and service network and extended driveline warranty,* and it’s easy to see why more people are getting on board with Higer. *Optional 2 year driveline warranty extension available (4 years total). Conditions apply.

To find your nearest Higer dealer call 1300 850 206 or visit higer.com.au

001Driver’s Seat

Fabian Cotter

“...you might just find mums and dads stumping up the cash to buy a van or mini-bus or two and start running their own Uber-like service.”

U

BER for buses, ‘who’da thunk it?’ Not only is the whole ‘private

punter come taxi driver wannabe’ idea revolutionising how that industry functions for cars, but it sounds like people are applying the concept to small bus use – and successfully so.

Known as ‘micro transit’, the transport model is going gang-busters for companies like Chariot San Francisco (www.chariotsf.

com, or www.ridechariot.com) – coincidentally the same city Uber started in – which is using vans and mini-buses driven

by regular Joes and Joesphines to transport discerning passengers looking for a cheaper yet tailored bus service. It’s an interesting trend to be aware of.

Why so? Good question. But I can’t help but see a whole new bus sales market opening up or at least rapidly expanding what’s already started to take root here anyway.

Whether you see it as good or bad, the fact is if this continues and spreads to countries like Australia and New Zealand you might just find mums and dads stumping up the cash to buy a van or mini-bus or two and start running their own Uber-like service.

That’s not to say those operators who have such vehicles on their fleets can’t do that already, but if you have drivers willing to use a bus for groups of people at all hours of the night and morning when traditional bus

services are closed for that time then this market could really take-off.

Heck, flick the guy driving your local pub or club shuttle service an extra $20 and I’m sure they will take you the extra distance to wherever you need to go if it’s a slow night or if no-one else is on board to complain about you and your mates commandeering the vehicle, so to speak.

As I discuss in this issue’s Higer H8

now and really imbued it with a professional feel and it was great to see some new and interesting bus product out there – like the

game. It’s already started to mainstream into the common urban vocabulary (‘Let’s Uber it!’

- kind of rhymes with ‘Just Google it!”), so it’s not like the idea of cheaper fares and cleaner cars at your beck and call is going away in a hurry. And so too shouldn’t similarly used vans, mini and midi-buses.

Get a few drivers pooling resources, buying a vehicle or two for shared use and you could have mini-operators evolving maybe, offering a more private service.

Anyway, it will be interesting to see how it all pans out - and how and if it affects the coach and bus industry.

So what else has been happening? Let’s see. We’ve all had an awesome time at the recent BusVic 2015 Conference and Expo.

The Melbourne Convention and Exhibition

there’ll be more to come over the next few, but if you’ve missed the event then Coach & Bus magazine is here to save your soul with our massive 10-page Show Report starting on page 28.

Also this issue we have a little bit of a bus air-conditioning guide to peruse plus Part 1 of our exclusive interview with Volvo Bus Australia GM, Sean Copeland. It was a frank and honest chat with a man who usually shies away from the industry limelight, so we are chuffed he took the time to say G’day.

There’s also some quirky tech stuff to absorb from our story on the LCD Willie Bus concept, which might have you ditching your 55-inch plasma TV at home in a hurry, while congratulations to Transdev Queensland for winning a recent customer service award.

200 feature on pages 38-41, this could revolutionise Uber for cars even before Uber for cars has finished revolutionising the Taxi

Centre was a plum choice for the event

Australian designed and engineered ZDi electric bus from Bustech. We’ve featured some of these new things this issue and

Until the next thrilling instalment...

Issue 021

Contents Regulars

CONTACT DETAILS PO Box 3294 Erina, NSW 2250 www.truckandbus.net.au

01 04 18

Enquiries Tel: 0411 099 091 Follow us on Twitter #truckandbusnews Managing Editor/Editor Fabian Cotter fabian@truckandbus.net.au Art Director Luke Melbourne www.groeningdesigns.com.au

60 62 63 64

Senior Designer Adelle Chang www.groeningdesigns.com.au Advertising Sales E: advertising@truckandbus.net.au T: 0411 099 091 Contributing Writers Chris Smith, David Meredith, Sven-Erik Lindstrand, Allen Matzel Contributing Photographers Mark Bean, Cristian Brunelli, Jan Glovac, David Meredith, Chris Smith, Paul Jakubicki, Matthew Everingham Coach & Bus magazine is produced under license by the Truck Power Media Group Pty Ltd. ABN 85 122 374 547 six times per year and is distributed to bus and coach operators, business professionals and the industry throughout Australia.

Driver’s Seat

Editor Cotter chats about the emerging issue of Uber-type services for buses and how it could impact the industry. Scary stuff. Maybe.

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.

In Depth – Transdev Silver Service

INDUSTRY STANDARD: To be commended for offering quality service akin to that of some of the biggest names in corporate Australia is nothing to be sniffed at when you are a bus company doing great things. Transdev, in Queensland, is raising the service bar big time.

Fabian Cotter reports.

Hot Stuff – Gadgets on the Go

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?

Working Wheels

Daimler’s latest Vito van is turning heads and getting attention for all the right reasons, giving drivers the opportunity to love their office while out on the road. Fabian Cotter susses it out.

Company Car

The Holden Commodore VF II marks the end of its true home-grown Aussie era, so in V8 form it would make an awesome company car. Fabian Cotter has a squiz.

Money

Whether we think we are ‘in it’ or not, the stock exchange arguably makes the world go around and it’s a roller-coaster at the best of times in terms of share prices. Here’s how you are affected and what to do says financial guru Paul Clitheroe.

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).

Editorial contributions are welcome for consideration. Contact the Editor 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.

20

28

38

49

Proudly printed in Australia.

Single copy price $6.60 incl. GST Missed an issue?

Surf to www.truckandbus.net.au to register for a FREE back-issue today!

coach coach&bus s &bus coach&bu www.truckandbus.net.au Issue 20 $6.60 incl. GST

www.truckandbus.net.au

www.truckandbus.net.au

Issue 18 $6.60 incl. GST

Issue 19 $6.60 incl. GST

CLASS ACT

MB Mini-buses Green-lighted

Shining Star Aussie Pride!

Euro6 Volvo's First Bus Articulated

Artic Fox

DAIMLER'S AWARD-WINNING CITARO IS FINALLY HERE! INTERVIEW: Nikki Brouwers

NEWS: Volgren Double-Deck

T OZ EA HITS WES : Wrightbus Streetdeck VOLVO’S B8RL Vehicles? INTERNATIONAL Take-over TECH: Air-powered OPERATOR: AAT Kings

NEWS: UBC

CBT20_p000_COV.indd 1

CBT19_p000_COV.indd

1

LEARNING SPANISH

EVENT: 61st UITP Milan, 2015

TECH: Solar Roads Concept

IRIZAR - AT HOM E IN OZ

OPERATOR: Buslink VIVO

CBT18_p000_COV.indd

am 12/05/2015 10:40

1

NEWS: Scania Poo Bus?

INTERNATIONAL: Volvo

25/06/2015 10:20 pm

Hybrid Electric INTERVIEW:

HVA-King Long’s Anthony

Fisicaro

25/02/2015 2:19 pm

coach&bus 28

“...the extremely positive feedback received so far suggests the event delivered unprecedented quality and value to all that attended.”

Features

20

Everyone’s A Winner

28

BusVic 2015

38

COVERSTORY: To many it was unexpected, but to those in the know the recent attention to double-deck city buses in Australia meant a new market opportunity. Volgren, Volvo and Victoria’s CDC took the plunge. Fabian Cotter reports.

EVENT: The Expo component might not be one each year of the annual BusVic Conference, but the 2015 gathering was a roaring success and has put it back on the show map. Fabian Cotter had a quick look around.

Platinum Card

FEATURE: Higer has followed up on its successful Platinum H7170 range of midi-buses with the larger H8 200 luxury coach, taking that splash of panache to the next level. Fabian Cotter reports.

42

Temperature Sage

49

60 Minutes With...- Part 1

56

GUIDE: Whether it’s the sticky heat of summer or the icy cold of winter, bus occupants need the opposite to the season they are in when inside a bus – or at least a good mix in between. We take a quick look at some of the leading bus and coach air-conditioning systems to date. Fabian Cotter rugs up then strips down.

INTERVIEW: Volvo Bus Australia is arguably at the top of its game right now, releasing a few key bus products around the country and making the market take notice. We had a lengthy chat with general manager Sean Copeland to get the lowdown. Fabian Cotter reports.

Screen Shot

TECH: It’s high tech at its best, or worst, depending on how you look at it. But a concept bus that uses LCD screens as body panels might not be as crazy as it first seems. Fabian Cotter investigates the Willie LCD bus.

UpFront

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

DAIMLER BUS GETS NEW BOSS FOR OZ A RAFT OF senior management changes at Daimler Truck and Bus announced

Eyre has been in the top job at Fuso for nearly 15 years, while Whitford has

Whitford’s replacement, Michael May, brings with him a wealth of experience at

strong strategic plan for the MercedesBenz business over the last 18 months

recently will see general manager Justin Whitford move to Fuso and he will be replaced by Michael May, who comes from the company’s retail operations,

been GM of Daimler Truck and Bus for 18 months and 12 months heading up Buses prior to that.

Whitford will remain at Daimler HQ in

both wholesale and retail levels and has been with Daimler Truck and Bus and its brands for the past 16 years.

More recently May’s success has been

which has certainly resonated with our customer base and this strategy will continue under Michael’s guidance,” Whitehead said.

effective 1 November, 2015.

Announced by Daimler Truck and Bus managing director Daniel Whitehead, the major shake-up will also see current long-term Fuso GM Richard Eyre move into a new shared role at Daimler Trucks Asia.

Clayton, Victoria, and as such there will be no move of Fuso from Liverpool, in Sydney’s West.

Whitehead says he was impressed with Whitford’s performances in running Daimler Truck and Bus and he will take his experience from Daimler to Fuso.

evidenced by his outstanding results and leadership of Daimler Truck’s Melbourne dealerships and, when combined with his previous roles across Aftersales and Engineering, he is clearly the ideal candidate for the job, the company states.

“Justin has established a clear and

“Michael May is also a really impressive guy. He has run one of our Select dealerships and also has engineering and product expertise that will be invaluable in his new role,” Whitehead added.

At the time of print a replacement for May’s role was still to be announced.

Impending new GM for Daimler Truck and Bus Asia Pacific, Michael May.

004 www.truckandbus.net.au

Bustech Launches Aussiemade Electric Bus BURLEIGH, QUEENSLAND-based Australian bus manufacturer Bustech

International Research Engagement professor Ajay Kapoor, said Swinburne

proposition for cities and major regional centres,” he added.

McGee also says maintenance costs can be reduced by up to 80 per cent

revealed its 11.8m ZDi urban electric bus at the recent 2015 BusVic Conference and Expo in Melbourne, touting that

was well placed to work and conduct research on electric vehicles, bringing together experts from the automotive

The ZDi can carry more than 50 passengers and each seat has a USB port for charging and powering mobile

compared with a similar diesel bus across the life of the vehicles.

Other supporters of the project include

it is set to revolutionise the Australian transport industry.

Claimed to be “Australia’s first designed, engineered and manufactured electric bus” that will soon be driving

industry, working alongside academics with expertise in electric vehicle technologies.

Transit Australia Group CEO Michael McGee said: “Our bus is environmentally

devices while travelling.

“The Bustech electric urban bus is really at the forefront of an emerging green vehicle industry and this country has the opportunity to be world leader

the Australian Government’s Automotive Cooperative Research Centre, the CSIRO and the Malaysian Government – which is heavily investing near $AUD170 million to establish an electric bus

Gold Coast streets, the Bustech ZDi is controlled by touchscreens and uses advanced battery technology

friendly and is a single-level bus, which is controlled by a touchscreen and features technology that is unique and

while at the same time reducing pollution and reducing environmental burden,” McGee added.

system based on the Bustech design.

and regenerative braking systems to maximise its range, the company states.

Bustech – a subsidiary of Transit Group

delivers maximum vehicle range without compromising passenger capacity and comfort.”

Potential operators will be keen to know the cost to make such a bus is comparable to a similar-sized diesel

Australia – collaborated with Swinburne University of Technology to produce the bus, whose Pro Vice-Chancellor,

“It can be charged at the depot, or in service, while its zero carbon emission makes it an extremely attractive

bus, according to Bustech, and that improved-technology batteries can be retrofitted.

UpFront

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

LA TROBE GOES EURO6 The Good Guys

VICTORIA’S La Trobe Valley citizens are now breathing a little cleaner air

Launched 30 July, 2015, the Volvo Euro6 chassis under a Volgren

and Volgren on their commitment to “keeping local” in bringing the first

thanks to the State’s first Euro6 route bus now in service.

La Trobe Valley Bus Lines (LVBL) recently partnered with Volgren and

Optimus body reduces particulate matter emissions by up to 80 per cent and nitrous oxide by up to 60 per cent, it’s claimed.

Euro6 service to Victoria. She said it was great to see Latrobe Valley businesses partnering with leaders in the Victorian manufacturing industry,

Volvo to launch the State’s first Volvo Euro6 route service bus as part of a shared commitment to a clean up the environment.

LVBL owner Rhonda Renwick said the new bus will fit in well with LVBL’s commitment to the environment.

such as Volgren, to introduce worldleading technology in ways that benefit people in the community.

The family bus business and operator in The Valley for more than 50 years was proud to become

“Our environmental initiatives include a commitment to a modern fleet of buses in good mechanical

Kindred Spirits Foundation (KSF), dedicated to support individuals, groups or communities to build on their strengths - and through skills and

the first Victorian bus company to operate and invest in the important technology, it’s claimed. Euro6 is the latest global vehicle emissions standard for improved environmental performance and lowering fuel consumption and noise levels as well.

order.”

The launch was attended by Ms Harriet Shing, Federal Member for Eastern Victoria, as well as representatives of Volgren, Volvo, Public Transport Victoria and LVBL staff.

Ms Shing congratulated LVBL, Volvo

training, reach their dreams (www.kindredspiritsfoundation.org.au).

Latrobe Valley Bus Lines has also put its backing behind a truly worthy cause, the Red Kidney Bus, part of several initiatives by Kidney Health Australia.

The company says it’s proud to be involved with such a valuable cause.

006 www.truckandbus.net.au

Latrobe Valley Bus Lines supports a fledgling philanthropic organisation,

Peter Danielsson - Safety Director, Volvo Buses

“I crash buses for a living. Your living.”

Every day millions of people around the world rely on our buses, and our job is to bring them safely to their destination. So our vision is clear: zero accidents with Volvo Group products.

And we do it the Volvo way, with world-leading safety development focusing on how to avoid accidents in the first place. This means developing buses with superior handling properties and advanced active safety systems that help the driver operate the bus in the safest way possible. Every Volvo bus comes equipped with an electronically controlled braking system (EBS), which includes both anti-lock braking (ABS) and Lining Wear Sensing that evens the wear and lets the driver know when the brake pads will need

changing soon. Volvo’s state of the art Electronic Stability Program (ESP) assists in the prevention of vehicle rollover and driving off the road - even in the most slippery conditions. Our latest safety innovations on their way include Forward Collision Warning, Auto Brake Assist, Lane Keeping Support, Adaptive Cruise Control and Pedestrian Detection; and will take us even closer to reaching our zero accident vision.

We’re convinced our zero vision will come true. It’s just a question of when. Until then, we’re proud to keep leading the way with a range of pioneering safety innovations that are making their mark throughout the vehicle industry.

This is a global advertisement and not all features are available in all markets or on all models.

For more information about the safety features available on Volvo buses and coaches contact Volvo Bus Australia on (02) 8713 8200 or visit www.volvobuses.com www.truckandbus.net.au 051

UpFront

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

Perth Busport Brought To Life NEW ANIMATION video on YouTube has given more of an insight into the

technology was making transport smarter.

bus stand by checking a digital display screen. Bus routes will always leave

ground, with the overall structure now 75 per cent complete.

new $209m Perth Busport, due for completing in 2016.

The airport-style underground lounge will feature new technologies for

“This smart transport project will offer passengers the very best in terms of comfort, technology and integration, right here on our city’s doorstep,”

from a similar area in the busport, making it even more user-friendly for passengers.

The new dynamic stand management

Minister Marmion said the installation of new real-time tracking software in Transperth’s fleet of more than 1400 buses was well advanced.

‘smart transport’ that will future-proof Perth’s bus network, it’s claimed.

Releasing an animation, which shows how passengers will use the

Minister Marmion said.

“The animation shows just how advanced the underground Perth Busport will be, with an airport-style

system behind the allocation will enable 50 per cent more buses to use the Perth Busport than the old bus station and will cater to demand for at

“This will allow passengers to see the exact departure time for their bus on the display screens,” he said.

By 2031 there will be 38,500

state-of-the-art Perth Busport when it opens next year, Acting Transport Minister Bill Marmion said it provided

lounge and a system which will advise passengers at least two minutes before their bus departs.”

least the next 30 years, it’s stated.

The location of the entrances at Kings Street, Queen Street and Yagan

passenger movements at Perth Busport with more than 200 buses an hour using the busport during peak

Passengers will be able to find their

Square have begun to appear above

times, it’s claimed.

a fascinating insight into how new

www.daewoobuses.com .au BENCHMARK QUALITY – PROVEN RELIABILITY – SENSATIONAL VALUE

PROVEN QUALITY COMPONENTS Daewoo Buses has forged strong partnerships with its component suppliers to ensure maximum customer satisfaction and minimise operating costs.

Global brands with the highest reputation such as Doosan engines, Allison transmission, Dana axles and Bosch engine management systems ensure you are guaranteed only the best quality components in your Daewoo.

TAKE A CLOSE LOOK AT DAEWOO CALL (02) 9603 2900 TODAY. DW2487/0613

VIEW OUR FULL RANGE ONLINE

www.kinglong.com.au TRANSPORTING AUSTRALIA Please visit

www.kinglong.com.au for more information LMCT No: 10735

CAB-HVA-0515-SD

Call or email us for further information NSW, QLD, WA & NT

VIC, ACT, SA & TAS

Anthony Fisicaro

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

Chris Cordia Regional Sales Manager m. 0438 040 411 e. chris@hvagroup.com.au

General 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

UpFront

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

VOLVO LAUNCHES ELECTRIC BUS ROUTE IN SWEDEN THE FIRST electric bus route for Gothenburg, Sweden, was launched in

completely by renewable energy will now be part of Gothenburg’s public

world leader in sustainable transport solutions. A unique collaboration in

June, 2015 – giving a snapshot of the future of urban electric bus transport.

Known as Route 55, the electric buses using it are said to be silent and

transport system. Bus route 55 has three completely electrically driven buses and seven electric hybrid buses, all of them from Volvo Buses.

Gothenburg enables us to launch the electric bus route here and remain a leader in the development of future public transport,” said Niklas

emissions-free, running on electricity from wind power and hydropower. The bus route is among the most modern

The buses on the route, which runs from Chalmers Johanneberg to Chalmers Lindholmen, through the

Gustafsson, chief Sustainability Officer, Volvo Group. Bus route 55 is a result of ElectriCity, a collaboration

in the world, claims Volvo Bus Europe.

Among other things, passengers can recharge their phones onboard and enter and exit the bus from indoors, it adds. Buses powered

centre of Gothenburg, are equipped with onboard Wi-Fi and phone charging facilities.

The buses run on batteries that are quickly recharged with renewable electricity at the terminal stops, the company states. The Chalmers Lindholmen stop has an indoor terminal, which is made possible by the fact that the buses are silent and emission-free.

“The Volvo Group aims to be the

that develops, tests and demonstrates new, attractive sustainable collective transport for the future. In addition to the actual buses, ElectriCity develops and tests new bus stop systems, traffic management systems, safety concepts and energy supply systems.

The new electric bus route not only puts Gothenburg on the map for innovative public transport systems, but also opens new possibilities for urban planning, it’s claimed.

Whisper Quiet LIBRARIES ARE notorious for kicking people out if they are found eating chips too loudly, so you’d think a bus would be way too noisy for such a venue at the best of times. But not an electric bus.

Indicative of how the relatively silent electric buses are and their potential use in a range of traditionally noise-sensitive venues and areas, Volvo Bus Europe actually had one stopping ‘inside’ a Swedish library of sorts to demonstrate the point, recently.

During the Volvo Ocean Race last June, along electric bus Route 55 a temporary bus stop was set up in the guise of a library, in collaboration with Gothernburg City Library.

The stop, built at Frihamnen, allowed visitors to borrow books and tablets from librarians and sit down for a moment to read or listen to audio-books – just like in a real library.

“Quiet, emission-free electric buses create new possibilities for public transport. With noise and air pollution out of the equation, the vehicles can get closer to where people are – even indoors,” explained Håkan Agnevall, president of Volvo Buses.

010 www.truckandbus.net.au

at! Just Forgot your library card? No swe get it. jump on the bus to go home and

DIRECTORSHIP CHANGES AT SCANIA AB THE NEW CHAIRMAN of the Board of Scania AB is Andreas Renschler. Other new members of the Board

Mari Carlquist.

Andreas Renschler, born 1958, is a member of the

of Directors are Per Hallberg, Annika Falkengren and Markus S. Piëch.

At the statutory meeting of the Board of Directors last June, Per Hallberg was appointed president and CEO.

Board of Management (Vorstand) of Volkswagen AG and Head of Volkswagen Truck & Bus GmbH, i.e. the holding company that coordinates the operations in the Group’s commercial vehicles companies.

The new Board consists of seven members, of whom Peter Wallenberg jr, Helmut Aurenz and Christian Porsche will continue the assignments they have had

Per Hallberg, born 1952, joined Scania in 1977 and has been a member of the company’s Executive Board since 2001.

since 2005, 2008 and 2014, respectively.

As previously, the Board also includes two ordinary members and two deputy members who represent the

Annika Falkengren, born 1962, is President and CEO of the Swedish financial group SEB AB and member of the Supervisory Board of Volkswagen AG.

employee organisations in the company: Johan Järvklo and Lisa Lorentzon respectively Mikael Johansson and

Markus S. Piëch, born 1985, is a member of the Executive Board of Salzach Privatstiftung.

Higer Excels At Murrays Mine Work MURRAYS COACHES chose Higer Munro buses for its fleet of 28-seater vehicles to service mines in the rugged Queensland outback 18 months ago, with no reliability issues thus far, the company states.

Servicing the area around Roma and Chinchilla in Queensland, Murrays Coaches utilised a fleet of Higer H7170 Munros to transport miners between job sites. In the first 18 months of service, the buses each covered over 100,000km without issue.

Murrays Coaches Fleet manager Justin Cannon

have as much involvement in developing a new model as we had with the latest Higer H7170. We were thrilled to be involved. The fact we can see our input in the final product cements our confidence in the brand and the team behind it,” Cannon said.

Higer’s local distributor, the WMC Group, CEO Neil Bamford said,“There is no better source of feedback than our customers to give us an insight into the ‘day-to-day’ experiences of drivers and passengers.

The team at Murrays have offered invaluable feedback

said: “Vehicle reliability is essential for any job, but it was even more necessary in this case. The region we’re servicing is remote and the passengers we’re

that has been instrumental in developing the new Higer H7170 Munro, a model we’re proud to have.”

“Having a long-serving and experienced Australian

transporting are very hard-working, so they need that extra level of comfort the Higer H7170 Munro provides.”

Murrays Coaches was a key player in developing the

operator trust Higer in Queensland speaks loud and clear that Higer really is at home in Australia,” Bamford added.

latest version of the Higer H7170 Munro, so knowing the vehicle inside and out made the decision an easy one.

“It’s rare that a manufacturer will allow an operator to

Murrays Coaches has further expanded its fleet of Higers to continue servicing clients in ACT, NSW and Queensland.

Per Hallberg, Board of Directors member, Scania AB

Higer Displays New Seating At Show BUS OPERATORS got their first look at Higer’s new ‘2 for 3’ seating at the 2015 BusVic Expo.

Timed to meet the new regulations in NSW, the seats also make sense for school bus operators in other states, the company states.

Offering the safety of lap-sash seat belts for all passengers, the seats are ADR approved and available for order on all new Higer buses.

The 2 for 3 seating allows for two adults or three children (under the age of 12) to use the seat. As a result, the Higer H7170 displayed at the Expo can carry 28 adult passengers, or up to 35 children when such seating is installed.

Higer’s National Sales and Marketing manager Francis Burdock says the best feature is the price: “To fit out a competitor 25-seat bus with ‘2 for 3’ seating can add nearly $30,000 to the price of the bus. Depending on the final spec of the Higer H7170, Higer can add ‘2 for 3’ seating to a more versatile, more powerful bus for many thousands of dollars less.”

UpFront

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

Sprinter Celebrates 20 Years THE MERCEDES-BENZ Sprinter van celebrated its 20th birthday at a Düsseldorf production plant recently, in front of more than 250 guests including politicians, economists, media plus employees from the six worldwide Sprinter production sites in Germany, Argentina, China, Russia and the USA. The Sprinter has been in use since

markets as the “world van” among commercial vehicles, the company states. More than 2.9 million Sprinters have been delivered to customers since its start of production.

Well-wishers at the official celebration included Hannelore Kraft, First Minister of North Rhine-Westphalia; Dr Dieter Zetsche, chairman of the Board of

of Mercedes-Benz Cars; and Volker Mornhinweg, head of Mercedes-Benz Vans.

“With the Sprinter, we have created an iconic brand for vans. It established the large vans segment, gave it its name – and has shaped it ever since”, stated Dr Zetsche.

First Minister Kraft said: “The Sprinter not only has a 20-year

outstanding future prospects – thanks to the decision to make the Mercedes-Benz plant in Düsseldorf a competence centre for global Sprinter production and the commitment made to back the highly qualified and reliable personnel here at the site over the long-term. I am delighted by both of these aspects and see them as a vote of confidence – in the site

1995 and is now in more than 130

Management of Daimler AG and head

success story behind it, but also

and the workforce.”

www.daewoobuses.com .au BENCHMARK QUALITY – PROVEN RELIABILITY – SENSATIONAL VALUE

SERVICE YOU CAN COUNT ON Asia Motors knows buses like no other. This means we know which parts to keep in stock and how to get them to you fast. With 24/7 parts and technical support from factory-qualified technicians only a phone call away you know you have support when you need it.

Our investment in a state of the art parts warehouse including fully computerised parts and inventory management systems means our commitment is guaranteed.

TAKE A CLOSE LOOK AT DAEWOO CALL (02) 9603 2900 TODAY.

DW3722/1014

SIMPLY SMARTER BUSINESS Korea is recognised as the world leader in producing high quality, great value products, and Daewoo takes it a step further with cutting edge design and the very latest in drive line and diesel technology, making it the benchmark for reliability.

With the choice of ordering fully imported ‘complete built units’ or bus chassis built by a body builder of your choice. Either way, our extensive options list means every Daewoo is customised to meet your specific requirements.

Daewoo is backed by Australian bus specialists Asia Motors, who with over 40 years of local industry experience understand what it takes to build the best school buses in the market.

With a state of the art parts warehouse including fully computerised parts inventory management systems and factory qualified technicians on hand 24/7, Daewoo’s commitment is guaranteed.

TAKE A CLOSE LOOK AT DAEWOO CALL (02) 9603 2900 TODAY.

BENCHMARK QUALITY PROVEN RELIABILITY SENSATIONAL VALUE

www.daewoobuses.com.au | (02) 9603 2900

UpFront

NEW PENSKE NZ FACILITY

WA Gets New Irizar Road Coaches WEST AUSTRALIAN regional

THE PENSKE GROUP – responsible for MAN Bus in Australia and New

a chassis dynamometer, as well as separate bays for fabrication,

lubrication systems (for engine, differential, hydraulic and coolant

passengers will now get to travel in modern comfort thanks to new Irizar road coaches, part of a

Zealand - has opened its all-new 17,748m2 New Zealand operation at Wiri, co-locating Penske Commercial Vehicles, Penske Power Systems

on- and off-highway engine stripdown, and rebuild capabilities, the workshop also features two full length suspended ceiling service

oil), greases, as well as a waste oil and coolant removal system.

This new look and feel facility is designed to deliver a first-class

$15.1 million Royalties for Regions investment to replace the Transwa coach fleet.

The Volvo Buses Australia-Irizar

and Parts Distribution into one stateof-the-art facility.

Boasting a workshop space that consists of 16 service bays and

pits.

The service pits also feature brake roller and suspension testers, heavy vehicle jacking systems, metered

customer experience to both Penske Commercial Vehicles’ and Penske Power Systems’ customers and dealers in New Zealand, it’s claimed.

joint venture will deliver 23 road coaches over the next three years.

In total the Government will invest $16.3 million in the project that will see the current fleet replaced, with $1.2 million coming from the resale of the existing road coaches.

All the road coaches will be compliant with the Disability Discrimination Act 1992 ensuring they are accessible to all passengers.

There were almost 200,000 boardings on Transwa road coaches in 2013-14.

014 www.truckandbus.net.au

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

VOLGREN’S 4000TH BUS VOLGREN HAS celebrated the roll-out of the 4000th bus to be built at its

states.

VG4000 stood equally proudly

Dandenong, Victoria, production site.

The Optimus low-floor route bus was handed over to Volgren’s longstanding Northern Territory customer,

beside VG001, the first bus ever built

by Volgren almost 38 years ago – looking as immaculate as it did that day it rolled off the original production

Buslink NT, last July at a ceremony at the factory.

In Darwin-like near-monsoonal rain, but very Melbourne wintry chill, the

line.

Owned by the Hannon family, Buslink began 27 years ago and has grown from humble beginnings – with

bus – in Buslink’s very NT ochreand-white livery – was handed over to Buslink NT managing director

just three buses when it commenced services in 1988 – into a business with more than 600 vehicles servicing

David Hannon by Volgren chairman Geoff Grenda, as proud Dandenong employees watched on, the company

the Northern Territory, Queensland and northern Victoria. It has more than 750 staff operating out of 14 depots.

Left to right: Volgren chief executive Peter Dale, Buslink NT managing director David Hannon, Volgren chairman Geoff Grenda and Volgren founder Ken Grenda celebrate the 4000th bus built at Volgren’s Dandenong plant

OPAL FOR APPRENTICES, TRAINEES AND TAFE – FINALLY

ELIGIBLE NSW apprentices and trainees can now access all-day cheaper fares on public transport as the Concession Opal card is rolled out to thousands more customers.

Minister for Transport and Infrastructure Andrew Constance and Minister for Skills John Barilaro have announced that eligible apprentices, trainees and TAFE NSW students can now apply online.

“Apprentices and trainees are currently only able to access concession fares when travelling between their home, workplace and

“These customers can now apply for a Concession Opal card and there will be no travel restrictions and no need for paper tickets. They will be able to access the concession fare for travel at any time on the public transport system plus access Opal benefits.

“Concession Opal card customers pay 50 per cent discount fares, have an unlimited travel daily fare cap of $7.50 and $30 weekly fare cap, plus discounted off-peak train fares, and free trips with the weekly travel reward,” Minister Constance said.

More than 80,000 apprentices and

place of training, but from today we’re lifting those restrictions,” Minister Constance said.

trainees are eligible to apply.

Full eligibility criteria is available at www.transportnsw.info

Iveco Launches Birthday Website A NEW WEBSITE to highlight Iveco’s 40th anniversary as a commercial vehicle organisation has been launched,

and making industrial vehicles: MagirusDeutz, Fiat, Lancia, Unic and OM. Today Iveco is a brand of CNH

appear on all of the company’s written communications until the end of 2015.

A website dedicated to the milestone,

Iveco Australia manufactures and imports commercial vehicles spanning the light, medium and heavy-duty truck segments

encouraging customers and brand fans to participate via submitting social media material for all to enjoy.

Industrial, a global leader in the capital goods sector. It has production plants in Europe, China, Australia, Argentina, Brazil

www.iveco40.com has also been launched (published in 14 different languages) encouraging Iveco enthusiasts

and, under the Iveco Bus brand, buses and coaches. For more on Iveco visit: www.iveco.com, or visit: www.iveco.com.au

The important milestone not only represents 40 years of success under the Iveco brand, but also pays homage to the company’s foundation which involved a union between five European firms with

and Africa, and business facilities in over 160 countries, the company states.

To celebrate the ‘big 4 Oh’, Iveco has created a special logo, featuring a stylised vehicle with the slogan “40 years of Iveco,

to share their pictures and videos for others to enjoy. The best submission each week will be added to a virtual book dedicated to the special anniversary.

The Iveco New Daily was recently

over 150 years’ experience in designing

150 years of experience”. The logo will

named International Van of the Year 2015.

UpFront

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

NSW BUS SAFETY BOOST MORE THAN 3700 public and private buses across Sydney, the Illawarra

To date, 800 State Transit buses already have fire suppression systems

the systems and a separate tender will ensure the remaining 2400 buses are

Fire suppression systems are now a standard feature on all buses that are

and Hunter will be retrofitted with fire suppression systems in a major boost for customer safety, it was announced last August.

installed, with a tender now open to retrofit the remaining 1300 buses in the fleet.

Around 400 private buses also have

fitted out.

The entire programme of work is expected to be completed in the next 18-24 months.

purchased by the NSW Government.

The 60 new growth buses committed to in this yearís NSW State Budget will have them already installed.

DIESEL DEEP CLEAN LAUNCHED A NEW diesel engine ‘deep clean’

industrial use that cleans injectors and

product from Lucas Oil Products - manufacturer of heavy-duty and high-performance oils, lubricants and additives - was launched at

dissolves exhaust deposits, it’s claimed.

The result is a uniform fuel flow, a cleaner, more efficient combustion, and reduced nitric oxide and nitrogen dioxide

Clean so drivers can get the most from their diesel-powered vehicles and we’re excited to launch it in Australia,” Pahlke said. “Diesel Deep Clean is formulated to

Diesel Deep Clean is available initially in a 473mL size, which treats up to 113.5L of fuel, with a 1.89L bottle, which treats 454L of fuel, to be launched

the bi-annual Australian Automotive Aftermarket Expo in Melbourne, recently.

Diesel Deep Clean is a fuel additive designed for all diesel engines from

emissions, it’s stated.

Lucas Oil Products of Australia managing director Jeff Pahlke said Diesel Deep Clean has been developed

reduce matter in diesel particulate filters and extend the life of diesel engines, as well as improving fuel consumption.

“More efficient combustion leads to

mid-year.

Lucas Oil Products recommends using Diesel Deep Clean in line with service intervals and complementing its benefits

passenger vehicles and 4x4s right through to light commercial and

to bring economic and environmental benefits.

better mileage, lower fuel bills and a reduction in maintenance costs.”

by using Lucas Oil Fuel Treatment with every tank.

016 www.truckandbus.net.au

“Lucas Oil has developed Diesel Deep

BUILT TO LAST ANY CONDITION, ANY TIME, ANY PL ACE

FOR SERVICE AND SPARE PARTS: Melbourne:

New South Wales:

221-243 Hammond Rd Dandenong VIC 3175 Phone: 03 9791 4255 Fax: 03 9794 0336

3-13 Kilcoy Drive Tomago NSW 2322 Mob: 0409 767 910

Queensland: 20 Amy Johnson Pl Eagle Farm QLD 4009 Phone: 07 3243 5300 Fax: 07 3243 5399

8 Enterprise Cir Prestons NSW 2170 Phone: 02 9426 6500 Fax: 02 9826 9403 Western Australia: 47 Beringarra Ave Malaga WA 6090 Phone: 08 9248 8055 Fax: 08 9248 8066

FOR SALES & CUSTOMER ENQUIRIES:

+61 3 9791 4255 www.marcopoloaustralia.com.au

Best Practice

TRANSDEV SERVICE AWARD Outstanding customer service in corporate Australia is often attributed to larger blue-chip companies covering a range of fields, so when a bus company is recognised among them it’s kind of a big deal. Coach & Bus editor Fabian Cotter reports.

T

hey are some of the biggest names in their game and often the leaders among their rivals when it comes to delivering benchmark-setting levels of supreme customer service. And now Transdev Queensland is one of them.

It has joined leading companies such as Nokia, Telstra, AMP, Virgin, Westfield, ANZ Bank and Woolworths in being recognised by the Customer Service Institute of Australia, which audits accredited organisations yearly,

company.

“These standards are not just plaques for the wall; they guide how we operate on a day-to-day basis and I know they have been critical in Transdev becoming a major bus operator for TransLink and the operator of Brisbane Ferries for Brisbane City Council.

“Our bus charter business also benefits from the standards and infrastructure we have in place for our major contracts and this has helped us deliver some of the largest charter

As operator of TransLink bus services and the Brisbane River Ferry network, Transdev Queensland has strongly represented the high standards in the bus, ferry and transport industry. And in doing so it has become the

changes, most recently from Veolia Transport, but the consistent quality, safety and reliability of our services have remained the same.”

Transdev Queensland is an award-winning transport organisation that is also the

ensuring they, “maintain a high standard of service practices and culture over the long term”.

first bus or ferry company in Queensland and only one of a few transport companies nationally – to have achieved the prestigious international customer service standard.

“Transdev Queensland is demonstrating its exceptional commitment to quality and

best practice, not only through the CSIA accreditation, but also by being tripleaccredited in quality, safety and environment ISO standards,” said Transdev Queensland managing Director Colin Jennings, adding

that achieving this benchmark was yet another industry-leading accreditation for the

018 www.truckandbus.net.au

bus transport services for schools that we know of,” Jennings added.

“Transdev has undergone a number of name

operator of Brisbane City Council’s CityFerry, CityHopper and CityCat network and operates public and school bus routes throughout the

Redlands and northern Gold Coast corridor.

Transdev Queensland offers an extensive, highquality bus charter service, which is popular for school transport, corporates, weddings and group activities, the company states.

It is part of Transdev globally, a leading international transport provider, operating in 20 countries with more than 80,000 employees and incorporating 13 different transport modes.

2

1 ‘Smile and the whole

Hmm. Just maybe...

1

world smiles with you?’ es add to the customer

n bus 2 Clean and moder

3

service experience. the key many would say.

3 Happy staff is

www.truckandbus.net.au 019

Coverstory

Photography: Cristian Brunelli

EVERYONE’S A WINNER Bringing a new type or specification of bus to market in Australia is easier chatted about than done, so when Volgren, Volvo and CDC took a carefully calculated gamble to do a new double-decker it totally paid off. Eventually... Coach & Bus editor Fabian Cotter reports.

020 www.truckandbus.net.au

www.truckandbus.net.au 021

Y

ou can’t blame the system, really.

Certain things just have to be done

a certain way and certain standards met. People’s lives and livelihoods are at stake when it comes to buses on our roads, so to get anything past Australia’s tough high standards takes some doing. And while that means a lot of research and development, plus a whole stack of behind-the-scenes wheeling and dealing to get a product ready for

intense governmental regulation and scrutiny, the upshot is whatever does finally get a run for the mass market is of world-class standard – if not better, many would argue.

Various cities, organisations and operators Australasia wide have their own idiosyncratic

business requirements when it comes to what type of bus needs to be part of their fleets – and often it’s not just overall cost that becomes the determining factor in the selection process.

Carbon footprints, fuel savings, physical length,

width and height; if none of these things add up or get ticked off the final check-list by potential buyers in terms of its suitability to a geographic region and fit sound economic purpose then it’s just a lot of wasted time and effort by all those involved.

The Volgren-bodied, Volvo chassis’d double-

deck being run by CDC in Victoria is a true success story of perseverance and

Being trialled by Public Transport Victoria (PTV) in conjunction with its new Regional Rail

years determined to bring good, quality bus or coach product to the Australian market. Yes, to make money from sales, but also to ensure the commuting public get the best that they

value and appeal of such a mode of transport.

Manufactured in Dandenong, Victoria, the project symbolised an employment success story that many in the Australian manufacturing

determination. Not the only such story the Australasian bus industry has witnessed or heard, but one that adds to the lineage of so many companies and focussed people over the

deserve for their journeys.

And like many such bus stories these things just don’t happen overnight, nor within a few months at best. The longer-term planning of such is usually worse than the time taken to read a copy of Les Misérables, bit by bit, over

a few years while in the bathroom – and that’s without all the impromptu singing scaring the neighbourhood cats at 4.00am.

Making its debut at the Austech Expo in Melbourne last June, 2015, at the Convention and Exhibition Centre, the stunning doubledeck was more than representing the bus type’s greater acceptance in certain areas of Australia; it was testimony to the local manufacturing capabilities to turn out worldstandard Aussie product. Or at least a fair chunk of it.

1

1 You can never have too much protection, and these ensure wheel nuts don’t loosen up.

3 The Volgren Optimus has great-looking LED headlights, which suit this double-deck.

industry yearn to hear more of.

Though this is the first bus of an intended first run of four, this could increase depending

on how the trial pans out and what the punters think of the double-deck experience.

Seating 88 with a total capacity for 111 passengers, it’s being run along routes in Melbourne’s west, Geelong and Ballarat by ComfortDelGro Cabcharge (CDC) Victoria, which to the uninitiated is one of the largest operators of essential commuter and charter

bus services in Australia. CDC is a joint venture between the international Singapore transport giant ComfortDelGro and Cabcharge Australia Limited.

Nicholas Yap, general manager of CDC Victoria said: ”This double-decker bus will result in and enhance the customer experience

2

2 ‘Eye spy with my little eye...’ - High-def camera absolutely needed on buses these days.

4 At peak times you’d want to get a seat - or be like Elton John and ‘Still Standing...’

3

022 www.truckandbus.net.au

Link, the Volgren-bodied Optimus doubledecker became the darling of local media and commuters alike while reminding many other state governments and or operators in the

4

through the roll-out of one of the biggest changes to the bus network in Melbourne’s

West.”

Said to carry double the amount of people than a regular single-deck bus, cost half as much to run and be two-thirds cheaper than

two single-decks combined, Volgren chief executive Peter Dale was quoted by The Age newspaper at the time of its debut as saying: “It has around 90 seats, so when people get on a bus and travel a bit further it is significantly more comfortable and safer. Our expectation is that this will be a very, very successful trial.”

Dale added, “It is fantastic to see the recognition we are now getting for our worldleading buses and the way the public is

embracing what they offer. Everyone at Volgren ought to be very proud.”

And so too project partner Volvo, whose B9TL chassis was key to its success. As Volvo general manger Sean Copeland explained exclusively to Coach & Bus magazine...

“We had to do a lot of R&D to make that [double-decker] happen and we had great partners who entrusted us to build something with them - it wouldn’t have happened without CDC and Volgren.

“It wasn’t supposed to just be for NSW, as

THE WHEEL DEAL It’s is one of Volvo’s most successfully used chassis and currently key to its double-deck programme around the world, in markets such as Britain, Ireland and South-East Asia.

The B9TL is available in 2 variants: a 4x2 chassis with rear-mounted, transverse, vertical engine and two axles - for buses with total lengths up to 11m; and a 6x2 chassis for three

axles - for buses with total lengths of 12- and approx.

12.7m.

The company states the B9TL is equally at home on intensive stop-start, deep city centre traffic as it is on long-distance intercity operation, with a range of driveline combinations available.

It’s said to be well adapted for efficient and environmentally optimised bus operation.

The high-strength steel frame is supplied to the body-builder in full length wheel-base form. These precise dimensions make body-building simpler with less chassis alteration required, Volvo states.

The driver’s area provides an efficient and ergonomically designed workplace, it’s claimed. The instruments are designed for simplicity, clarity and ergonomic optimisation.

“The Volgren-bodied, Volvo chassis’d doubledeck being run by CDC in Victoria is a true success story of perseverance and determination.”

Any double-deck is quite an imposing site on Australian roads, but the PTV livery is a wonderfully cheerful look.

www.truckandbus.net.au 023

The first big challenge was to get it down to 2.5m width. Internal height was maximised, too.

“...it is locally built in Dandenong, Victoria, and fully supported through both Volgren and Volvo – a really big win for PTV.”

1 1 2 3 4 5 6

024 www.truckandbus.net.au

A slightly less-steep stairway to heaven?

AdBlue to help keep it green.

Everything looks nicely laid out down below... ...and up top, too. Note roof height.

A popular driver’s layout used the world over on Volvo double-decks.

Yep, it’s home-brewed - right here in Oz. Mostly.

many believe. We wanted to build a product that we knew was quite successful overseas.

wanted from a double-decker if we built one.

“And it made sense for that partner to be CDC

perspective an articulated bus takes up a fair bit. With a double-deck you are reducing your footprint, but also you can actually increase your passenger numbers – and again that’s

“One of the most difficult things that we experienced was going through the process of getting the bus approved. It was a really good learning experience for myself and Dean Moule

And we run double-deckers in London and they are hybrids, and we run double-deckers in Hong Kong and Singapore. And when you are talking about footprint from an operator’s

what operators want,” he explained.

“If they can do that then it means they are reducing their running costs because it means they don’t need to have that many buses running on the road.

“So we decided to take the plunge and do

one - which was extremely difficult because every other double-deck we’ve ever built under a Volvo B9TL chassis is specifically used in Singapore and Hong Kong (we used to use them in London, but those are now all hybrid

because of the Green Zone),” he explained.

Hurdles? There were plenty. And the first of many was width.

“The first challenge was to get it to 2.5m wide because on Singapore and Honk Kong roads it’s 2.55m wide, so we gave ourselves a big tick for that when we did it. Credit goes to the Volgren engineering department and to Dean Moule, body build engineer for Volvo Bus Australia.

“The second big challenge was to design the bus to suit Australian conditions and suit Australian passengers. So challenge number two came down to height,” Copeland said.

“If you have a look the other countries the bus is used in, personal height is, on average, shorter, so we had to maximise our internal height to get to the limit. And we successfully did that. And that was achieved from some of the lessons we listened to and learned from through the double-deck trials in Sydney,” he added.

“A couple of key things that come out of that was internal height for both bottom and top decks were a concern for passengers. The other concern was steepness of the staircase,

and the third was the air-conditioning system.

So when we built the bus and took all those considerations into play, we acted on them with what we felt was good.

“We’ve got a Denso air-conditioning system that works extremely well in Hong Kong and Singapore environments, so we put that into this bus.

“We looked at the staircase and Volgren made some changes from the internal height perspective where we are just under the

legislative requirement, which was great. And so with that we decided to partner an operator in relation to interior design, in terms of what they

because we build double-decks for them in Singapore. So with that we decided to build it and dress it up as a complete bus and then go through the approval process,” he explained.

because it wasn’t long ago each state had control of decisions relating to vehicles meeting specifications for the road etc, and it was about

2 3

two years ago that the Federal Government decided to introduce a new body – the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator, which had overarching powers.

“First of all, we had to get a design approval, which we got knocked back for initially. These had a lot to do with making sure the width was right, and the height – these were the two key

things. But we went back again and did the changes and got it approved, so it was a big tick for us,” he said.

“The next stage was to get the complete vehicle approval to get it on the road. That in itself was a real challenge and we went through the process in NSW and got the PBS approval for it. Then we had to get approval to operate on specific roads – and the reason for this was because of weight.

“For each state – and this is where I think the new Paper that has been put together makes 100 per cent sense and is a step in the right direction we [as an industry] need to take, and should have been done a long time ago - harmonisation of weights across each

4 5

state makes sense. Right now every state has different weight recommendations, right from

4x2 vehicles to 6x2 vehicles, and the difference can be anywhere from a tonne to half a tonne.

Then on top of that there are other requirements

to meeting weight - safety items like ABS etc.

“With the final weight of 20.5 tonnes fully laden, we put a business case forward to have it in operation in NSW and it didn’t get approved,” Copeland said regrettably.

“They made the decision that they didn’t want

6

to have PBS buses operating in the State, which was disappointing because they already have 14.5m, 6x2 single-deck PBS buses operating,” Copeland added.

“But the door is not shut and I think that once we get the harmonisation of weights approved it will be a no-brainer,” he added.

So the tri-venture parties had to come up with another solution to get the bus on the road. The result? They presented the bus to Public Transport Victoria (PTV) in Melbourne in

www.truckandbus.net.au 025

conjunction with CDC’s Nicholas Yap. “I must credit Nick with being a very strong

“The current one [double-deck] has an agreement in place with PTV that they are

understood the benefits of the double-deck and now we have one in operation. And I’m confident in future we will have more. The PBS approvals we went through for Victoria was

Copeland said.

“PTV has been an advocate of the doubledeck for two reasons: CDC has shown the ability to introduce new technology for high

advocate of the double-deck concept, which he’s experienced first hand in Singapore,” said Copeland.

“We had three meetings with PTV, which

very seamless,” he said.

So what’s been the feedback about the bus thus far from the Victorian trials?

“It’s been very, very positive. I’ve been really impressed and proud of how much media attention the double-deck has got in

Melbourne and it’s all been positive to date.”

Now, we heard there are many experts saying the Volgren-Volvo product is a lot cheaper for operators compared to other double-deck options on the market in this country. Is this true? And how much does it cost? Coach and Bus magazine put it to the Aussie Volvo boss.

“I would say that our double-deck is good value for money. I think it is a good option for high-capacity transport at good value for money,” Copeland answered coyly and diplomatically.

So where to from here and, at the time of print, what’s the state of play?

happy to do a 3-6 month trial of it on certain routes, which is what they are doing now, and I’m confident that there will be more. I think they will make a decision before that,”

capacity and the other is that it is locally built in Dandenong, Victoria, and fully supported through both Volgren and Volvo – I think that’s a really big win for PTV.” And what of other states and operators watching intensely for the upshot of the

Victorian trials? Has Volvo had any interest from any other states for the double-deck?

“Yes we have, but the problem with doubledeck is the height becomes an issue. If you have a look at places like Queensland it’s not really adaptable to conditions in the CBD, as they have so many tunnels coming into and going out of the city, so it doesn’t really work there. And in Western Australia they’ve set their mind that they want to go with articulated buses,” he said.

“But I think definitely NSW and South Australia are really good areas for double-deck buses.”

BUS SPECS MAKE: Volgren MODEL: Optimus Double-deck body CHASSIS: Volvo B9TL ENGINE: Volvo Euro5 six-cylinder D9B. Power 228kW; Torque - 1400Nm TRANSMISSION: ZF Automatic with integrated retarder SUSPENSION: Electronically controlled air suspension with raise and kneeling facility BRAKES: EBS, Disc brakes, ABS WHEELS: 275/70 tyres with alloy rims BODY: Height – 4390mm, Length – 12,052mm; GVM - 25,400kg INTERIOR: Seating - Upper deck: 55, Lower deck: 33, Standees: 23; Total: 111 MISC.: Fuel tank - 400L

“...we had to maximise our internal height to get to the limit.

And we successfully did that.”

026 www.truckandbus.net.au

Showtime

Photography: Luke Melbourne

BUSVIC 2015 - IT’S BACK,

BIG TIME!

028 www.truckandbus.net.au

A new Melbourne CBD venue and reinvigorated spirit has put the BusVic Maintenance Conference and Expo well and truly back on the bus-show map - boding well for the next event and beyond.

Coach & Bus editor Fabian Cotter reports.

www.truckandbus.net.au 031

1

I

t was epic! That’s the only way to describe it. The 2015 BusVic Maintenance

Conference and Expo at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, held July 8-9, took all the colour and excitement of the 2011 event and bundled it up in a new

and embellished fashion at a new location that wowed punters and exhibitors alike.

Though the old Mooney Valley Racecourse venue had served its purpose for many a year, like a well-worn shoe covering a growing teen’s big feet many argued the physical size limitations of that location had reached its zenith and that there really needed to be a change. Add in complaints about icy temperatures inside at times and exposure to

wind and rain elements more often than not and something like the larger and arguably more professional-feel Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) was well overdue for bus industry use. And, from most accounts, at the 2015 gathering it had met its objectives with aplomb.

On the plus side, many exhibitors and

delegates told Coach & Bus magazine that the extra space for displays and the general layout of all the stands was a refreshing change and that it was good to have everyone down on ‘the one same level’ which engendered more intimacy – a direct reference to the multi-level,

‘zig-zaggy’ spread of things at previous BusVic shows when it was held at Mooney Valley.

Any negatives? Of course. Nothing in life is without its dramas, regardless of how big or

2

small they are. It seems some punters were not big fans of the ambient noise levels of the show throughout the MCEC, which at times

made listening to guest speakers or the topics discussed at the plenary sessions a bit difficult.

Also, a minority did say that Mooney Valley conversely engendered that same abovementioned intimacy, for the very same criticisms mentioned earlier.

Ultimately, though, times change and things evolve and these were but minor criticisms about the new location for the show, with the overwhelming majority loving it. Perhaps simple black curtains surrounding the various

“...the larger and arguably more professional-feel Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) was well overdue.”

1 Higer H8 200 gets the Platinum effect.

2 Plenty of space in the new Bustech ZDi electric city bus.

3 The elections must be close. Bon Luck’s President was

in the house.

4 It was virtually standing room only in the packed,

Iveco-sponsored Munich Brauhaus.

5 Dysons and Irizar were a winning team.

6 F1 tech on the biggest lazy Susan ever.

7 Volgren-bodied Scania city bus certainly looked the part.

3

030 www.truckandbus.net.au

4

5

6

8 Happy people everywhere.

9 The friendly Bus and Coach

Sales Australasia crew - chatting to some short, bald media-journo type.

10 AFL legend ‘Bomber Thompson’.

7

8

9

10

www.truckandbus.net.au 033

The MCEC in all its glory at night.

The guest-speaker sessions were always well attended.

The Voith displays are always eye-catching.

Legend soldier Mark Donaldson VC put a lot of life’s lessons into perspective.

5 Awesome electric bus tech ... from Bustech, of course.

6 The Volvo people picked up Best Stand at the 2015 show.

1 2 3 4

1

seating areas used for the talks may help nullify the noise problem, but it might be

almost 600 delegates and hapless media representatives like ourselves, whom

from visitors and stated that well over 1500 delegates attended the 2015 Maintenance Conference and Bus Expo - a record attendance for this type of event in Australia.

According to BusVic, almost 65 per cent of

sorts of BusVic show information, such as exhibitors attending and their locations within the complex, which plenary sessions and topics where being discussed and when and where, and a range of other nifty knick-knacks

simpler if we all just focus more Zen like for the next time, we’ll have to see.

Overall, organisers report great feedback

total delegates had operator origins with the remainder being supplier delegates. The greater majority of total operator delegates

hailed from Victoria: 38 per cent metro areas and 35 per cent rural/regional areas. However, there was also a great representation from operators from other states and neighbouring countries: NSW 9 per cent, QLD, 5.5 per cent, SA 4.5 per cent, NZ 2.7 per cent, Tasmania 2.2 per cent, WA 2.1 per cent and NT/Other overseas 1 per cent.

There was a technological leap for

032 www.truckandbus.net.au

2

downloaded – eventually – the ‘app’ ShowGizmo, which promised to allow uses to freely navigate its menus to search out all

that seemed to work a treat. Not a bad idea.

And even though it lacked the entertainment value of advanced-levels of Tetris and Fruit

Ninja (Yeah, we are ‘down with the kids’ and know about such stuff unfortunately), congrats to the show organisers for offering it to the punters at the 2015 event.

In terms of new bus product there was more than a few debuts or first real major showings during the event. Issue 20 of Coach & Bus magazine featured the internationally acclaimed, award-winning Mercedes-Benz

3

4

5

“...iconic Aussie diva Kate Ceberano’s pure vocal performance wowed the masses big time.”

6

Citaro low-floor city bus on its cover and it was great to see it in the flesh in an official

eye-catching piece of kit.

Bon Luck made its presence felt with its

event as the best expo and conference they had ever attended and this included any truck

Coach International (BCI), which saw an MB OC500 LE Euro6 chassis under an stylish BCI Citirider aluminium body. Decked out in Public Transport Victoria (PTV) colours, it certainly looked the part and we’ll be taking a closer

Bustech’s ‘all Australian’ ZDi electric bus. Said to be “designed, developed, manufactured and built in Australia by Australians” the ZDi was an intriguing story itself, tucked away as it was in a secretive tented enclosure within

delivered among the exhibitors’ floor space there was always something to see and do, with exhibitors especially enjoying the continual delegate buzz and surrounding activity during the sessions and break times.

capacity on the Daimler Bus stand. Sharing its limelight was the low-entry route bus ‘love child’ from its latest cooperation with Bus

look at that one soon. And with BCI setting up an major office for itself in Victoria recently, the new product seemed the perfect fit for the directives the company is taking in that geographic region.

Elsewhere we saw Volgren’s new Volvo-

chassis’d double-decker up close and personal - and the success story that it is for all involved was worthy as our coverstory this issue, while the Iveco chassis’d Custom Bus Australia CB50F yellow school bus for the South Australian Government was quite the

stunning lime-green President luxury coach on display with all the trimmings, while at the rear of the exhibition was a real showstopper:

the MCEC, with glowing neon lighting and smoke machines and all sorts of effects for a real Star Wars meets Star Trek meets Stargate feel. Had Chewbacca himself been behind the wheel explaining the bus to people as they hopped on board for a closer look, no one

would have been the wiser if they were still on planet Earth or not.

Overall, organisers report that the extremely positive feedback received so far suggests the event delivered unprecedented quality and value to all that attended. Many referred to the

or motor show, they say.

All management and technical sessions were very well attended, it seemed, and as they were

The Management sessions on Network Service Planning highlighting the State Government’s upcoming Regional Network Development Plan was of particular importance. The session on the Industry’s Wellness Taskforce on Thursday was also

very well received. Other highlights included the Standard Hour Recap for Drivers, BIC Technical Update and Preventative Maintenance workshops.

In terms of speakers and the general flow on things, Mark Donaldson VC spoke of his

www.truckandbus.net.au 033

challenging teenage years and his fierce desire to join the SAS and his eventual

unplanned succession to become one of Australia’s most decorated soldiers.

His detailed and humble account of his experiences certainly enriched the crowd’s

understanding of Australia’s modern wartime story. On the following day Bomber Thompson provided an entertaining and insightful account of his AFL career and

direct assessment of Essendon’s supplement scandal.

Robert Nicholas from Benalla Bus Lines was awarded the Apprentice of the Year Award and popular industry identity Bram Kefford was awarded the Industry Achiever Award for over 30 years of service to the industry.

The highlight of the event for the greater majority, though, was Keith Foote’s Induction as a Life Member of the Bus Association of Victoria. The award was presented by former BusVic executive director Kevin Norris, who delivered a powerful account of Keith’s unwavering loyalty to the industry and BusVic’s members.

Following the amazingly cool and funky Tuesday night’s pre-event drinks sponsored

by Volvo Bus Australia, the first night’s Mercedes-Benz-sponsored event for 1000 dinner guests was amazing, with

Everyone loves a good bus show now and then.

Custom Bus Australia and Daewoo were out in force.

“All aboard!” - the Brauhaus bus. No tickets needed.

Comedian Damian Callinan - nice hat!

The Big Red Kidney Bus charity people - doing their thing.

Call ‘em up, donate some money, don’t be tight!

6 ‘Watch? What watch?!’ Legendary magician James Galea (ably assisted by Andrew Cornwall).

1 2 3 4 5

2

1

“...at the rear of the exhibition was a real showstopper: Bustech’s ‘all Australian’ ZDi electric bus.”

3

4

5

6

BEST FOOTE FORWARD Keith Foote was born into the bus industry. Keith’s Dad, Stan, started Footes Bus Service in 1954 and sold to the government when the industry was nationalised in 1974.

They had 14 buses then. Their depot was on Days Rd, Croydon Park, Adelaide.

He commenced with Bus Proprietors Association (Victoria) in 1979 and soon began organising the Maintenance Conference, starting with its first year at Moonee Valley Race Course.

Foote came to the Bus Proprietors Association at a time when there was considerable turmoil in the industry which was under threat from the Victorian Government.

Given his family owned route

service business had basically been taken over by the South Australian Government a few years earlier, his private bus industry background and experience with similar issues in Adelaide was extremely valuable to BusVic. He immediately formed a strong rapport with bus operators at all levels in Victoria, but especially those in rural areas. His nononsense approach, down-to-Earth practical advice and genuine empathy with operators won him many supporters among the membership. His can-do attitude sits very well with most of BusVic’s operators. He was promoted to Deputy Director in 1981. He organised the

Maintenance Conferences. At the 2001 Maintenance Conference he received a Special Industry Award for his 22 years of service.

His loyalty to the industry and the individuals who make it up is beyond question. His dogged attitude toward winning the very best result for individuals and the industry as a whole provided BusVic members with many very good results in disputes with Government.

His fairness also enabled him to sit in the middle of operator disputes and negotiate good win-win outcomes as he was implicitly trusted by all parties.

His lasting legacy to BusVic was the building of the Annual Maintenance Conference from humble beginnings

to what many considered the premier Bus Expo and Bus Industry Conference in Australia. He turned the event into a world-class affair recognised nationally and internationally as an outstanding bus event.

www.truckandbus.net.au 035

1

“The extremely positive feedback received suggests that the event 2

3

4

entertainment by legendary magician James Galea (ably assisted by Andrew Cornwall)

– team Coach & Bus is still spinning out at how his watch got into the fruit; it was proper ‘spoke and mirrors’ stuff at its best – and then comedian Damian Callinan got cracking before iconic Aussie diva Kate Ceberano’s pure vocal performance wowed the masses big time.

The final night’s Iveco-sponsored drinks fest at the nearby Munich Brauhaus was great fun – and then someone found out delicious

steins of German beer were also available and then it was blissful urban chaos all around – not mentioning any names. As 1980s pop group The Go Gos once sang, featuring a very young Belinda Carlisle (and covered more

1 The Daimler Bus-sponsored dinner on the Wednesday night was superb.

2 Just like Australasian ‘70s band Split Enz once sang, “I see red, I see

red, I see red.”

3 A good night had by all.

4 At the Munich Brauhaus. Once the steins of delicious German beer

came out it was blissful chaos.

5 A few light after-show refreshments are always good value. Cheers Iveco!

6 ZF people intensely debating ZF stuff. It was all happening at BusVic 2015.

7 BIC executive director Michael Apps.

recently by Hilary Duff), ‘Our Lips Are Sealed’.

BusVic show organiser and spokesperson Craig Spurr says a huge thank you goes out to each of the speakers who presented at the conference, each of whom are all experts in their fields and provided a great learning platform for those who attended.

“Our Expo Committee also deserve our sincere appreciation, their dedication of numerous hours work prior to and during the expo plus their expertise in constructing the programme topics and sessions ensured a programme of great relevance and value for all,” Spurr said.

“The extremely positive feedback received suggests that the event delivered unprecedented quality and value to all that attended. BusVic wishes to thank all operators and suppliers alike for their tremendous involvement in the event; we look forward to welcoming all back to our next conference and expo,” he added.

delivered unprecedented quality and value to all that attended.”

5

6

7

New Product

038 www.truckandbus.net.au

Photography: Luke Melbourne

MICRO TRANSIT It might be smaller than a traditionalsize coach, but it’s big on luxury and style. Higer’s H8 200 Platinum coach isn’t just following on from an existing trend, it’s potentially about to be way ahead of the curve. Coach & Bus editor Fabian Cotter reports.

www.truckandbus.net.au 039

I

f you’ve ever been stuck in your local city on a busy night waiting for a taxi in the pouring

rain – or any time for that matter when you just need to get home fast – you’ll know the odds are on that there will be at least another 10 people just like you thinking the same thing.

Multiply that by another 10 of you and the number of people waiting in cab queues with you exponentially increases too – making the exercise a nightmare all too often.

If catching a train is not an option and you are not lucky enough to be within walking distance from your home, it’s potentially going to be a very long and uncomfortable wait at the rank – unless you chance hailing one off the street.

It is this perennial scenario weekend in and

weekend out over years that incubated a need for an alternative – and ideally one that’s not going to cost you the odd limb and toenail by the time you get back to your bed.

Enter Uber, the cashless app-based ‘citizens taxi’ phenomenon sweeping Australia, if not the world. And in retrospect – as with all smart ideas that leave the rest of us scratching our heads – it is such an obvious idea.

Everyday people using an app to connect with and pay for other everyday people to drive them to wherever needed for a cheaper rate than a

1 2

3

4 5 1 The Higer H8 200 has that special

2 3 4

5

6

040 www.truckandbus.net.au

6

relaxed ‘winery tour’ feel even in the day-to-day grind.

A little bit of airplane functionality never goes astray.

Drivers have a range of functions within fingertip reach.

The seat felt good, steering position well set up and clear-to-read gauges were choice.

Cummins Euro5 ISB 4.5L turbo fourcylinder has plenty of grunt for the job.

These seats are really comfy. When you want to sleep on them it’s a good sign.

taxi. Just like your mates dropping you off somewhere? Kind of – except it’ll cost you the

like Higer’s new H8 200 Platinum luxury coach is well placed to take advantage of that trend

for larger seats, more comfortable airbag suspension and under-floor luggage bins.

passenger-safety issues being tossed up against Uber, but at this stage it seems to still be game on for the idea.

From a bus perspective it has nothing to do

and imbued with other stylish and comfortinducing appointments, the larger H8 200 would make the perfect ‘mirco-transit’ vehicle to move limited numbers of commuters

cars becoming more luxurious at even the cheapest price points, passengers of charter coaches expect a higher level of comfort than in years gone by.”

beer money beforehand.

As expected the Taxi industry isn’t too happy about missing out on the work for regular cab drivers, and there have been a raft of

with us, right? Wrong.

If Uber – which started in San Francisco, USA – can revolutionise car-based taxis as

an industry, what would happen to Uber if such an idea translated to buses? Mini and or midibuses, in fact.

Ooops! It already has and the results of which are unfolding as we speak, with companies like www.chariotsf.com (San Franbased again) spying a market between cheap and horrible public transport – read: trains –

and ‘overpriced’ taxis and even Uber car rides themselves.

Why not reduce the cost of the trip by picking up more passengers than a car can hold – and that’s where the buses come in.

Yet, with such a tailored service it’s got to be a bit special for travellers, and so something

when – not just if – it gets here.

An essentially expanded interpretation of the Munro H7170 Platinum Edition 19-seater, daubed in gorgeous metallic Anthracite paint

quickly around town – with style.

Unveiled at the recent 2015 BusVic Expo, it features 22 luxury reclining seats, two LCD

screens for the multimedia system, in-seat USB charging, satellite navigation and an onboard refrigerator.

Neil Bamford, CEO of White Motor Corporation, importer of Higer buses, says there was heavy interest from the market for the Higer H7170 Platinum since it was revealed.

“The Higer H7170 Platinum is a fantastic luxury mini-coach, which has raised the profile of the Higer brand in Australia. The new H8 200 Platinum now takes that concept to the next level.”

“With more room than the Higer H7170 Platinum, the Higer H8 200 Platinum allows

There is also the capability to fit-out the coach to a customer’s individual specifications.”

Francis Burdock, Higer’s national sales and marketing manager, added: “With passenger

“We are able to meet the expectations of discerning passengers with the Higer H8 200 Platinum through increased seat space and

better amenities. We expect to receive a high level of interest from operators in tourist areas, including winery tours, airport transfers and

conference specialists.”

So will there be any more Platinum editions from the Higer stable? Francis concluded: “Once we have a good gauge of the demand for the Higer H8 200 Platinum, the range could be further extended to include larger H9, H10 and H12 models, allowing for more seats and even more luxury appointments.”

Well, if the Uber-type phenomenon continues and further translates to companies using luxury-spec midi-buses, then such demand might mean Higer may be foolish not to.

“22 luxury reclining seats, two LCD screens, in-seat USB charging, sat-nav and an on-board refrigerator.”

BUS SPECS MODEL: Higer H8 200 ‘Platinum Edition’, 8.5m ENGINE: Cummins ISB Euro5 4.5L four-cylinder turbo-intercooled engine.

Power – 152kW@2100-2300rpm; Torque 760Nm@1400-1800rpm TRANSMISSION: Allison T270R six-speed automatic transmission with hydraulic retarder and electronic push button gear selector STEERING: ZF 8090 power steering with tilt and height adjustment SUSPENSION: Front/rear airbag with double acting shock absorbers BRAKES: Wabco ABS, four-wheel discs; traction control BODY: Silver/Grey ‘Platinum Edition’ colour treatment INTERIOR: 22 luxury reclining seats with three-point lap sash seat belts; two LCD screens for the multimedia system; in-seat USB charging; satellite navigation and an on-board refrigerator MISC.: Air conditioning; automatic fold-out step; tinted windows; Fuel tank - 220L

www.truckandbus.net.au 059

Bus Advice

042 www.truckandbus.net.au

TEMPERATURE SAGE Year round, bus comfort is fundamentally contributed to by the ambient temperature inside a bus or coach. Searingly hot or icy cold, if you get the mix wrong you could soon know about it – and that’s even from just the usually passive passengers. The latest air-conditioning systems are key to this success, especially in Australian conditions. Let’s take a quick look at some the leading air-con players. Coach & Bus editor Fabian Cotter reports.

H

ot, sticky and agitated. Or so freezing cold that ‘water’ is just dripping out of your nose – which you now can’t even feel – and there’s nothing you can do about it other than get your handkerchief out and blow like an orchestral trumpeter in

set defined cubic capacity of air volume within a bus – no easy thing to do given fluctuating ambient conditions each time the doors open for passengers to alight at stops etc. The very external design of the unit for optimum windresistant drag coefficients and where it’s best

commuters interpret just how good a bus or coach journey was.

Seating comfort is one thing, so too is ride

We examined such issues in depth long ago in Issue 4 of Coach & Bus magazine (‘Air Force’, pages 54-57), where much research from various

unison with other passengers. Temperature extremes not only make you feel horrible and uncomfortable, they arguably dictate how many

quality – but temperature control just might be the one thing that takes a passenger’s mind off such things if they ever fail a commuter’s expectations.

Thankfully these days, some of the latest commercial vehicle air-conditioning systems do an amazing job of keeping passengers and the driver comfy and – mostly in our geographic zone at least – cool, which contributes to sanity

levels being kept in check during stinking-hot summers. And if that means drivers concentrate better and certain passengers are less likely to be come become aggressive for whatever reason and enjoy the journey then it’s really a win-win no-brainer.

But it’s not all just about air temperatures and the uniform regulation of such throughout the

placed on the roof of a bus or coach so as to be most efficient is interesting reading and food for thought at least.

scientific and educational institutions, such as the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Auckland and the Automotive Engineering Centre at the M.S Ramaiah School of Advanced Studies, Bangalore, India, put forth fascinating analysis, data and postulation about such concepts and how it contributed – or not – to a better aerodynamic slipstream of vehicles

such as buses and coaches and how this in turn aided fuel efficiency.

And, at the end of the working day for many

transport companies, saving fuel and thus saving money is what’s it’s all about. In that context, we examine some of the leading companies and and brands in coach and bus air-conditioning systems. Enjoy...

www.truckandbus.net.au 043

COACHAIR

DENSO

ESTABLISHED IN 1985, Coachair continues to remain a well-known Australian brand

DENSO AUTOMOTIVE SYSTEMS Australia is based in Croydon, Victoria. The company

the new system is the Hino Blue Ribbon City Hybrid, a bus launched by Hino Motors, Ltd.

Sigma Coach Air-conditioning in 2010 allowed Coachair to solely focus on the needs of its bus customers and, therefore, launched a team of dedicated and industry-

products. The product design department works closely with car manufacturers and clients to develop locally manufactured components suited to the Australian market.

perfectly balanced heating function to keep you comfortable when the weather cools, it’s stated. It has superior performance, high efficiency, a slimline design and proven

within the coach and bus air-conditioning industry, providing its customers with second to none after-market support, the company states. The separation of

experienced employees, who strive to ensure Coachair regains its position as the Australian leader in coach and bus airconditioning.

The company’s focus remains on its customers and ensuring its products and

services are genuine, easily accessible and affordable, it states. Coachair continues its journey to becoming a “one stop shop”, allowing customers to easily purchase spare parts to suit a variety of A/C brands.

Coachair says it is committed to holding a diverse selection of A/C parts for your convenience and it endeavours to supply its customers with their spare-part requirements within 24 hours, saving you both time and money.

Today Coachair continues to provide a reliable, cost-effective and fuel-saving product that is backed up by its aftermarket guarantee, ensuring the lifelong business relationships are established with its customers when they become a part of the Coachair family, according to the company. Coachair calls this its Whole of Life Service.

CONTACT

COACHAIR WEB: www.coachair.com PHONE: 1300 287 247

manufactures engine cooling systems, air conditioning, air intake systems, fuel pump modules and instrument clusters, as well as the sales of imported and aftermarket

In 2013 Denso developed a smaller, lighter and more efficient air-conditioning system for hybrid buses. The air-conditioning system has an integrated electric compressor, which uses about 50 per cent less power compared to Denso’s previous

system. Also, the new air-conditioning system has an improved operating efficiency and provides greater comfort to passengers, the company states. The first vehicle to use

reliability, the company says.

CONTACT

DENSO WEB: www.denso-ac.com.au PHONE: (03) 8761 1449

REVO GLOBAL REVO GLOBAL IS considered the new international benchmark, it’s stated, with air-conditioning product made for every

standard dimension. Characteristics include: short, medium and long versions; aluminium technology; SMC technology; a multi-flow condenser; for roof radii from 5.000 to 20.000mm; plus easy installation on the bus roof - but possible from the inside or top with integrated sealing concept.

Key to its continued success is a professional approach and willingness

044 www.truckandbus.net.au

The new LD8u bus air conditioner has a lightweight, streamlined design with the same quality and reliability that Denso PLUS has become famous for and has a

to work in partnership their customers to deliver innovative, custom, climate solutions, tailored to their needs, states Revo.

CONTACT

SPHEROS WEB: www.spheros.com.au PHONE: (03) 9706 0084

SPHEROS AS A DEVELOPMENT partner, Spheros works together with automotive manufacturers all over the world to create individual airconditioning concepts for all bus types - from a city bus to the five-star luxury coach, the company states.

Intelligent customer-oriented solutions and decades of experience enable Spheros to work with virtually every manufacturer worldwide to provide a guarantee of reliability in bus air conditioning.

With ‘Revo Global’ Spheros is offering an innovative product range from scratch.

It focused its knowledge and experience gained from global markets on a completely new product - one that fits just about on any bus - regardless of the climatic region, bus type or performance class in which they are used.

Spheros also specialises in bus products ranging for: Thermo heater; Escape hatch; Electric A/C; and Water pump.

www.truckandbus.net.au 045

THERMO KING TRAVEL THROUGH ANY continent, through any major city or town and you can almost

Group responded to the requests of customers and sales and service management

In one of the harshest continents in the world with some of the greatest distances

company says.

The Thermo King brand is distinguished as one of the best transport refrigeration and HVAC systems in the world. They are purchased by public and private businesses

national approach and delivers a unanimous customer service and even better focus to support its Thermo King operators through every aspect of their business, it’s stated. The company has formally pulled together under

company’s steadfast philosophy has always been to ‘Deliver the very best service so our customers can’t afford to go anywhere else’ and in saying this the company looks forward to the Australian bus and coach industry

be guaranteed to see Thermo King on the roof of a bus, coach, train or front wall of a refrigerated trailer, van or container, the

not only because of their superior reliability and world-leading technologies, but because of their service network, it’s claimed.

In Australia, Thermo King has for more than the past three decades supported the Australian bus and coach market through

the dealer network whilst all equipment was sold through QTK Group or its predecessor, Spectra. Early 2015 the directors of QTK

046 www.truckandbus.net.au

to formulate the new business: Thermo King Bus Australia.

Today Thermo King Bus Australia takes on a

a national regime all installations, training, parts supply, administration and maintenance to now deliver a ‘True-Total Package’ that its customers will really benefit from, it says.

Whilst it has maintained its existing staff, it has also injected some new talent into the

team and re-aligned strategies, structures and systems that have already delivered improved services to customers.

between states and towns, reliability of equipment, back-up service and trust in your supplier always comes first before price. The

partnering Thermo King Bus Australia.

CONTACT

THERMO KING WEB: www.thermoking.com.au/

WEBASTO THE ‘OPTIMUM RETROFITTING Solution for Air-Conditioning’, the compact Rooftop

independent operation of the primary cooling circuit of the vehicle is also possible, states

product is perfectly geared to cooling mini and midi-buses of up to 35 seats. Equipped

the company states.

The Compact Cooler 4 E represents an independent solution with integrated electric motor, which drives the system’s

motor drives the compressor over a belt.

For example, the Compact Cooler 5 can be switched simultaneously with the E-Unit.

Thanks to the robust structure and the use

accessories and vehicle-specific installation kits include control units, air vents and ducts.

The units can also be painted in the colours of the vehicles.

System Series is a space-saving, retrofit rooftop air-conditioning system for cooling the driver’s cabin and passenger compartment of all vehicles with cabin volumes up to 10m³,

own compressor with the help of a V-belt.

Thus, it only needs to be connected to the vehicle battery. The Compact Cooler

5 Lite is conceived for integration in the primary cooling circuit of the vehicle and it distinguishes itself through an especially

compact structure, which was implemented by avoiding the condenser including fan.

Additional compressors are preferably installed in the vehicle for the Compact Cooler 5 and 8. This guarantees the full system capacity at all times, and an

Webasto.

The E-unit means the electric motor / compressor unit is installed on a robust metal frame including plastic housing. The electric

of latest technologies, the Compact Coolers fulfil all common quality requirements of the vehicle manufacturer and correspond to the current EU directives, the company states.

Essential characteristics of the robust design are the basic metal frame and the

existing refrigerant circuit made fully of aluminium. The customer profits from an increased lifespan and reliability, as well as from reduced maintenance expenditure.

As for its rooftop air-conditioning systems – the Rooftop 10.0-18.0kW - this line of

with durable, high-efficiency fans and blowers that provide a constant airflow, these air-conditioning solutions are reliable and enjoy a long service life. A variety of available

For all-round climate control, Panama, Madrid and Santana models also feature a heating function.

CONTACT

WEBASTO WEB: www.webasto.com/au/marketsproducts/bus/air-conditioning-systems/ PHONE: (02) 8536 4800

“...drivers concentrate better and certain passengers are less likely to be come become aggressive.”

www.truckandbus.net.au 047

NEED A REPLACEMENT? CATCH ONE OF THESE SPECIALS!

IRIZAR 3500/DELTA

CUSTOMS SB50/DELTA

AVAILABLE NOW!

VOLGREN ENDURA/DELTA

You can rely on these buses, because they’re all built on the Aussie IVECO Delta chassis and they’re all available now!

53-61 seats, with or without seatbelts.

IVECO BUS & COACH 1-27 Princes Highway Dandenong South, VIC, 3175 T: 03 9238 2200 F: 03 9238 2763

iveco.com.au

Free Call 1800 602 287

IVECOBUS50906

VOLGREN ENDURA/DELTA

Interview

Photography: Fabian Cotter

60mins with...

Sean Copeland Volvo Bus, Australia – general manager

Nearly two years into his new role at Volvo Bus Australia, general manager Sean Copeland has largely shunned the spotlight of the industry, preferring to let the company’s results as a whole do the talking for him. And that philosophy was reason enough for us to pick his brain on a few key industry issues. Coach & Bus editor Fabian Cotter reports in Part 1 of this exclusive interview. www.truckandbus.net.au 049

Q

Hello, Sean. Thanks for meeting with us. Nice premises Volvo

has here. How long has it been here? Will it be expanding or moving in future? What kind of structure is there to it and what departments and staff are here?

SC: “This is the head office for Volvo Bus Australia, on the other side is Volvo Construction Equipment. They have a

different set-up than what we do; what we do is very unique. Basically, the whole business for CE is based on managing a

dealer, they have one dealer across the country. We are a little bit different in that we do all the selling ourselves and we use

two dealers.

At the other end of the office we have our aftermarket business that supports Truck, and in another part is APAC - the rest of which is based in Singapore. Here in Chullora, NSW, is basically the dealership for Volvo Bus Sydney office and then we have Newcastle. On the east coast of Australia we have all 100 per cent owned Volvo dealerships and then we have our sub dealers.

After being here for 13 years, we will move out of here in the next couple of years, as this is no longer a central point in Sydney.

The original strategy for building here was the Hume Highway, which meant one road coming up from Melbourne and Canberra and everything stopped here.

We’ve built a new dealership out at Eastern Creek, Sydney, on the M4, but they will do something similar for this dealership by building over at Prestons, NSW.”

Q

Sean, the last time I was here I was chatting to former GM Peter Duncan, whom I interviewed in Issue 3 of Coach & magazine. How long have you been in the role since and how did you get here?

SC: “I’ve been in this role now for just over two years. I started out on the tools as a tradesman, being a fitter and turner

and then an air-conditioning refrigeration mechanic. And at that time I was working for a company called Asset Services, which was bought out by P&O, which was then bought out by Spotless Group. Here I got identified as a talent within the business

and they offered to send me to university; I was 26 years old. I worked full-time and

050 www.truckandbus.net.au

“...to challenge yourself to not do the same things you’ve always done because that’s where complacency comes in.”

studied part-time for six years and I ended up completing a Bachelor of Business

majoring in management, with a sub-major in commercial law.

Two years later while working in a $100 Million business with a big team around me, my mentor, Craig O’Neil, who worked at Honeywell, suggested I test myself by getting a job in an industry I knew nothing about. An opportunity came up in capital equipment with a company called Crown Equipment, going from a NSW service manager to a state manager within two

years.

That meant running a business of around 250 people and worth around $200 Million.

I enjoyed my time there for about five years until my mentor again offered me a job with him at Honeywell, where I worked in the interesting environment of Public Private Partnerships as national operations manager – part of a really big team and we picked up a couple of really big wins.

At their suggestion, I started my Masters degree and ended up back in capital equipment for a smaller family owned business. I began to miss the corporate environment and that’s when the opportunity came up with Volvo Buses. The company fully supported me finishing my MBA, which I completed last year.”

The best thing I’ve loved about my career is the diverse roles I’ve had and the different things I’ve been able to learn along the way.

These skills have helped me successfully enter various businesses, which I have really enjoyed.

Q

What changes have happened since you’ve been here? How has Volvo Bus

Australia evolved? What forms its current success?

SC: “Structurally, I’ve made some changes and I’ve brought some new blood into the business, which I think has been really refreshing. And the people I have targeted haven’t necessarily been within the industry. If you have a look at the head of our marketing department, Christina Cortese, she came from a pharmaceutical background. And if you have a look at

Kristina Melin, our Commercial Logistics manager, she came from an international banking background. Our finance manager

Nicole Marcusson came from Qantas as a senior business analyst there. And with the

www.truckandbus.net.au 051

support of Grant Mascord, who assists with the delivery of our major contracts,

also from Qantas, I think it’s healthy to have people brought into the business who have a different outlook as well. We have that fresh look and fresh focus, which gets you to challenge yourself to not do the same things you’ve always done because that’s where complacency comes in.”

I’ve moved some people around into different roles as well, which has revitalised them. One of the big things I’ve

put in place since and really believe in is that I’ve created opportunity and invested a lot of time and effort into education for a lot of the team with Volvo Bus. So we So we have a number of courses that fall

under the term Volvo University, but also I’ve challenged the team to do external courses as well.

If there’s an opportunity for an employee to take the next big step in their career in Bus or on Truck, I think we have an obligation to give them the tools to make that step. I’m a believer of it because I’m a product of it, so that’s part of my passion.”

Q

How many people work here at Volvo Bus Australia?

SC: “In the team directly we have 17, but in addition we have a support network, so we have CMV in Victoria where we have two direct salesman but then we have a standalone workshop with four guys in it that’s dedicated to 100 per cent bus.

In Western Australia we have one dedicated sales guy over there for Truck Centre WA and we have another five guys dedicated just to bus in our stand-alone bus workshop.

On the east coast of Australia we are fully supported by Volvo Bus and here in Chullora, NSW, there are just four

dedicated bays to bus; in Queensland there’s two dedicated bays just to bus. And we have a good operation in Newcastle, so we have a really good dealer network around us and that really is part of our overall success.

The likes of Volvo CMV and the likes of WA they are an integral part of this team

and are treated as such in that they come to our quarterly review meetings; every Monday we have our morning phone hook-

up and all of those people dial in – that’s all

052 www.truckandbus.net.au

part of the success in that’s it is a united front.”

Q

How does Volvo Bus maintain its top position? What are some of the things

to do or not do?

SC: “To maintain the number one position is extremely hard. You’ve got competition that really, really wants a slice of the pie.

One of the things we’ve done over the past couple of years is we live by not being complacent. You can’t continually think that you are always going to get the order. You’ve got to go out and work for it. And part of working for it is listening to what the customers want. And one of

the things we’ve been really successful at is fulfilling our commitment. We make it, we fulfil it and that’s how we maintain our customer base. But also it’s product offerings, as well. And that’s where credit is due to Volvo because we do have a fuelefficient, extremely reliable, technologically advanced product.”

Q

What sort of things do you have in place for operators in terms of regular support, like training meetings or such?

SC: “One of the initiatives that we introduced – and it was about October 2014 – we installed David Woodward as the competency manager for Volvo Bus Australia. The reason this come about was that we undertook an initiative to listen to our customers, but we did it independently.

We engaged a marketing company to do nine sessions in four states around the country, with current customers and non-current customers, in an isolated

environment where Volvo wasn’t present.

They produced some really good data for us to go away and analyse and the number one thing to come out of it was training. And it wasn’t just training for

technicians, it was also for drivers. The training needed more focus, especially with the new technology. So off the back of that

and with David in that role – knowing Euro6 was coming one day - we held a number of Euro6 forums around Australia for all of our

customers and operators, and that went really, really well.

Now we have put out a programme where David goes out to all our operators and our dealers and holds those technical training

“...we have an obligation to [employees] to give them the tools to make next that step.

I’m a believer of it because I’m a product of it – that’s my passion.”

sessions. The next stage for us is to take that into driver training.

The other interesting thing that came out of that whole consultative approach was that the customers were looking for some sort of vehicle-monitoring systems,

which within the next six months will be the direction we head and focus on to the market.

We have Volvo telematics with I-Coach and we’ve delayed releasing it into Australia, but again we have actually put it in play to identify the results before releasing it [to market]. Brisbane City Council has Volvo telematics on all its new vehicles and that’s been a really good learning curve for both parties on the benefits of telematics and I-Coaching. The results have been quite positive.”

Q

Volvo won best stand at the recent 2015 BusVic Conference and Expo.

What are you thoughts on such shows in general for the bus industry?

SC: “I thought the show was extremely good. I thought the effort that all of the industry put into their stands was great.

And congratulations to Christina Cortese; credit where credit is due. She worked really hard on it and I thought our stand was a true reflection of Volvo. It was quite open, we focussed on our strengths which was definitely technology with the Volvo world-first articulated bus there – which isn’t a bus everyone buys every day of the week – but it was to showcase that tech. We

also had the evolution of the Volvo double deck on the Volgren stand and we had our coach options around as well, like the Irizar Greyhound coach. Over the last number of years Greyhound has bought quite a number of our B11R chassis for their coaches.

I thought the show and the attendance was really good. But what does the future

hold? My personal opinion is, I think for an industry of our size it is hard to justify having a show every year. To explain, this year I made a concerted effort to go to the recent 2015 Brisbane Truck Show, which I thought was fantastic. Through my research I found they do a truck show every two years. And if you have a look at the volumes of buses that we sell in this industry each year –

about 1400 – where trucks are doing, like, 12,000 per year, we are doing one each year

www.truckandbus.net.au 053

and they are only doing one every two years.

You’ve got to question that.

I think every two years there is a time you can introduce new technology, but to do it every year is difficult.

And although I think it is very difficult for

the State bus associations, I would like to see more patronage from the consumers because ultimately they are the ones who we are servicing.

I think that would be good for our industry to increase the profile. The other thing is it would really give an opportunity for some new blood to enter into the industry.

I mentioned it to a couple of operators in Melbourne; we agreed it would be refreshing to have a couple of the operators there exhibiting and promoting their businesses, looking possibly at adverting at the show to take on people for operational roles, whether they are looking for drivers, or apprentices or mechanics. I just think that whatever we can do to put the bus industry in a positive light is best.

In the media you always see the negative effect of public transport and I think it’s up to us as an industry to change that.”

Q

So what can we learn from the truck show so that we as a bus community

are not so insular?

SC: “I noticed it was a flat entry fee of $20 and it had everyone coming in, from young

school kids to truck fanatics and families as they treated it as a good day out. And I thought that was really refreshing.

At the Sydney Bus Show last year I met a young disadvantaged kid down from Noosa, and he was a bus nut and he just loved buses. But I know his parents had to go through all sorts to get him a ticket because these events are a closed shop. I just think we are a good enough industry to be able to open up the doors for at least one day

or a half day to let the public come in to experience what we do and experience next technology and get some feedback.”

054 www.truckandbus.net.au

Future Proof

SCREEN SHOT Nearly 50 years ago, few would have predicted there’d be a microwave oven in almost every household’s kitchen. So who is to say something like the Willie LCD Bus is not much more than a long shot? Coach & Bus editor Fabian Cotter reports.

www.truckandbus.net.au 055

1

I

“The large, smooth surfaces and soft rounded outer frame create a sense of serenity and peacefulness.” t may be true that for every great idea or product that we take for granted these days there may have been up to 10 interpretations or variations on it that

never saw the light of day. And just may be it had to be that way, so the actual successful product or idea got off the ground – or had the legs to hit it running.

A bus that uses LCD screens as its exterior panels, upon which transport, traffic and advertising data and imagery could be displayed to commuters and onlookers along

its route? Who is to say it could never work, or at least inspire another interpretation of it that eventually does?

Advertising on buses is nothing new, of course, but a fascinating bus concept by designer Tad Orlowski puts a futuristic spin on this with his LCD Willie Bus idea.

continuing the trend of buses to also be rolling billboards to a more contemporary use of them being mobile points of data exchange for passengers and viewers.

provides an added element to getting around town.”

Its sides are made of transparent LCD screens, which the site describes as “may at any moment function like a typical display

presented at bus stops in an eye-catching way.”

“Willie [bus] represents minimalistic and elegant design that emphasises the functional aspect of this mode of transport. The large,

According to the Wille Bus website, the conceptual project “utilises new trends in technology to transform city landscapes and

unit, incorporating even touch control functions.”

The implications would be enormous, from

2

056 www.truckandbus.net.au

3

Such information could take the form of, “route plans, weather reports, press and TV coverage, as well as tourist information

smooth surfaces and soft rounded outer frame create a sense of serenity and peacefulness.

This is offset by a stylishly organic, simply

4

1

2 3

4 5

No more racing outside to the front of the bus to read where it’s going. Here people read the data on the screens.

The advertising potential is enormous.

Watch sporting events while waiting for the bus? Sounds like a plan, Batman!

Art on wheels? It’s definitely a good-looker.

If this is a countdown so drivers behind know when the lights ahead are about to change - just ‘shut up and take my money!’

5 www.truckandbus.net.au 057

chaotic structure that forms the construction of the bus frame,” the site states.

touchscreen you could change exterior screen patterns and colours.

the commercial significance for advertisers derived from this innovative project may soon become the way of the future.”

Well, it’s a long-shot for sure, many would

campus work it might prove ideal.

No doubt legal and technological hurdles would have to be overcome to get the Willie Bus to truly function properly, but this could

With the interior lit, the bus is said to create, “an impression of restless energy attempting to cut through the unblemished surface of the glass. The benefits for passengers and

argue. Or is it?

The Willie Bus site states that the technology is in serial production and application already in certain parts of the world, while only a few years ago Toyota displayed such an external-display theme to its Fun-Vii and

the FV2 concept cars, where just by using a

On a bus, though, it could be a bigger target for vandals and a major source of distraction for drivers it shares the road with, but in limited runs like airport routes or university

come to fruition if indeed driverless vehicles on our roads mean we’ll have more time to read such data on a bus and less chance of

such being a distraction.

We’ll be sitting back being chauffeured about by our ‘all thinking, all dancing’ cars for that.

“...it could be a bigger target for vandals and a major source of distraction for drivers.”

058 www.truckandbus.net.au

1 2

It would be a heck of a lot of cleaning, but it so does look cool.

2 Advertising campaigns limited only by the imagination, it seems - and LCD real estate.

3 The interior looks inspired by spider-web design. Hmm. Wonder if this is Spider-man’s transport mode when he’s low on juice?

1

3 www.truckandbus.net.au 059

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.

i95 Smart Watch Smart watches are turning out to be more than just a fad, it seems.

Even the least geekiest among us are starting to eye off the latest models coming onto the market, given the range of useful tasks such a watch can be used to monitor and do.

The i95 Bluetooth Smart watch is Android 4.3 based and allows WHAT? WHO? HOW MUCH? CONTACT?

you to surf the internet via WiFi, is motion and voice activated, takes photos and plays music, and monitor your heart rate etc.

Featuring a high-speed XBurst 1.2GHz 300MHz dual-core CPU, 512M RAM, 4G flash ROM, it comes in brushed IP plated metal with genuine leather and metal watchband, plus stainless steel

pin buckle. No SIM slot, though.

Damn! It is way cheaper than a Sony Smartwatch 3, however.

It’s IP65 waterproof rated, so that prevents sweat, rain and water splash in general. And it looks like a proper watch, so there’s still some social acceptability while you are grooving out and about.

i95 Smart Watch Shenzhen Juumei Investment Co., Ltd. Approx. USD$124 www.gearbest.com

Optinvent ORA-X It’s not just about having the latest tech these days, but also how easy it is to transport it and wear it. And while Google Glass hasn’t really caught on just yet, there are loads of people happy to wear Dr Dre headphones to listen to their tunes each morning on public transport.

Optinvent has merged both ideas it seems to have headphones with glasses that can supply all sorts of useful muliti-media and audiovisual information.

AR glasses (augmented reality) could eventually become the user interface of choice instead of the humble smartphone, according to Optinvent, whose ORA-X headphones would be perfect for mobile video, navigation, augmented reality and gaming.

WHAT? WHO? HOW MUCH? CONTACT?

Using its patented Clear-Vu display technology it allows seethrough vision while displaying a virtual image simultaneously, it’s claimed.

Specs include: full-colour landscape mode 4:3 display; 80g weight, Bluetooth 4, WiFi, USB and large touchpad.

ORA-X Headphones AR Glasses Optinvent TBC www.optinvent.com

Carzor Car Razor and Mirror If you have 5 o’ Clock shadow issues or hairy hobbit-like toes then while away for business you might need a quick shave with the Carzor Razor.

Basically, it’s the size and shape of a credit card and easily fits into your wallet, so you can have a quick shave when you really WHAT? WHO? HOW MUCH? CONTACT?

need to impress – and fast. With the razor out and assembled, the rest is a mirror, so you don’t really have to get to a bathroom.

Again, this is more a quick fuzz fix than proper ‘barbershop cut-throat and steaming-hot towel’ job, but if you are desperate enough to mow the facial

Carzor Razor Carzor Approx. USD$10 www.infmetry.com

lawn before a meeting then this might be a handy little goer to take with you.

Plus it won’t cost the Earth, so how could you do wrong? Plus the razor can be scented; you’ve a choice of mint, sandal, lemon, ocean and orange. Result! It’s just 86mmx54mmx3mm.

MISSED AN ISSUE?

coach&bus www.truckandbus.net.au Issue 20 $6.60 incl. GST

Shining Star

DAIMLER'S AWARD-WINNING CITARO IS FINALLY HERE! INTERVIEW: Nikki Brouwers

CBT20_p000_COV.indd 1

NEWS: Volgren Double-Deck

EVENT: 61st UITP Milan, 2015

TECH: Solar Roads Concept

25/06/2015 10:20 pm

Surf to www.truckandbus.net.au to register for a FREE back-issue today!

For all advertising queries contact: advertising@truckandbus.net.au - 0411 099 091

Working Wheels

Vanity Flair

Mercedes-Benz recently released its 2015 Vito van range with varying options for cargo transit or chauffeuring needs. Yet perhaps it’s the Crew Cab variant that will prove the perfect mix for most. Fabian Cotter reports.

T

he problem with Mercedes-Benz making these mid-size Vito vans

featuring five seats and cargo room at the back (Valente seats eight, nine at a pinch with no

Three different power outputs of 100kW/330Nm, 120kW/380Nm and

so comfortable and comparatively opulent for a working vehicle is that you’d be wondering if anyone would actually get any work done at all.

cargo capacity).

Vito’s line-up includes the 111, 114, 116 and 119 van models (SWB and LWB); 114 and 119 Crew Cab models (Mid Wheelbase); and Vito

140kW/440Nm are available (114, 116 and 119, respectively).

The 7G-TRONIC seven-speed automatic transmission is a first in the mid-size van market

From the quality fit and finish of it all to the comprehensive array of safety features – ESP, ABS, ASR, EBV, BAS – and even driver fatigue

111 models (Short and LWB).

The base engine’s a turbo 1.6-litre 84kW/270Nm Euro5 four-cylinder for FWD and

and is standard on 116, 119 models and all Crew Cab variants. It is optional on 114 van models.

detection and Crosswind Assist, they are rolling LCV examples of the latest tech and creature comforts.

Targeting a cross-section of drivers and operators - from skilled crafts and trades to retail, service providers, shuttle services and taxis – the new Vito is designed to be one vehicle for all. Yet add in the classy Valente people-mover and buyers have even greater choice.

The new Vito product range offers the flexibility of both panel van and crew cab models - the latter an ideal compromise between Vito and Valente, one might argue,

features increased fuel efficiency of up to 19 per cent and a CO2 emissions reduction of up to 20 per cent (comparisons based on equivalent outgoing models), it’s claimed. It’s mated to a six-speed manual transmission as standard.

Interestingly, the FWD’s payload is up to 1285kg.

The Vito 114, 116 and 119 models get a 2.2-litre Euro6 BlueTEC four-cylinder for RWD models. This has a two-stage turbocharging system. Incorporating BlueEFFICIENCY technology, fuel efficiency has increased up to 30 per cent and CO2 emissions reduced up to 30 per cent than on the previous models.

“...crew cab models an ideal compromise between Vito and Valente - featuring five seats and cargo room at the back.”

This is the new Vito van. If you picture the interior (top right) of the Valenta, but knock off the back row of seats, that would be the Vito Crew Cab’s cargo space.

VAN SPECS MAKE: Mercedes-Benz MODEL: Vito ENGINE: Turbo 1.6L Euro5 four-cylinder or 2.2-litre Euro6 BlueTEC fourcylinder. Power/Torque – 84kW/270Nm; 100kW/330Nm, 120kW/380Nm and 140kW/440Nm TRANSMISSION: Six-speed manual transmission, or 7G-TRONIC sevenspeed automatic MICS.: Safety - ESP, ABS, ASR, EBV, BAS; driver fatigue detection and Crosswind Assist

062 www.truckandbus.net.au

Company Car

Best ’Til Last

With local production of Australia’s iconic Holden Commodore ceasing end 2017, there was much anticipation for the last of the breed. Will the VF II disappoint? Fabian Cotter reports.

B

rand fans of Holden would have shed more than a few tears when news broke that Australian production of the beloved Commodore would cease at the end of 2017, with its replacement probably from Germany via GM Opel stocks.

With the recent reveal of the last iteration of the Aussie product in the from of VF II Commodore, odds are on there’ll be a decentenough line-up at showrooms across the country to get their own last slice of automotive history. Add in the fact it’s being touted as the “the quickest, most powerful, most advanced Commodore ever built” and the VF II is quickly on the wish-lists of many looking for a great company car.

Yet while Calais and Caprice models usually

fill the void for the corporate high-flyer and prestige-car buyer, the VF II Commodore’s delicious-sounding (Corvette-pinched) 6.2-litre LS3 V8 will be hard to ignore if you are out to do the whole ‘Commodore thing’ right.

Aside from the VF II introducing the new LS3 to all V8 models, there are numerous other upgrades including bi-modal exhaust, mechanical sound enhancer and all-new styling cues.

The 2016 Commodore VF II with LS3 V8 delivers 304kW and 570Nm, making it the quickest Commodore ever, posting a cheeky 0-100km/h time of 4.9 seconds, it’s claimed.

Engineers spent hours developing the distinct engine sound, courtesy of the new bi-modal exhaust with unique Holden designed “Baillie

Tip” and mechanical sound enhancer.

Topping off the range is the track-focused SSV Redline, featuring Brembo brakes all around. In addition, VF II features revised FE3 rear sports suspension.

Functional bonnet vents and fascia ducts were developed by Holden engineers with support from Melbourne’s Monash University wind tunnel, improving aerodynamics around the front corners of the vehicle.

These vents, a stunning new front fascia, as well as the introduction of clear lens tail-lamps on sedan models and new LED tail-lamps on all Sportwagon models, gives VF II a more aggressive exterior. And being on the last of the home-made brew it all should go down a treat with patriotic Aussie customers.

“...bi-modal exhaust, mechanical sound enhancer and all-new styling cues.”

CAR SPECS MAKE: Holden MODEL: Commodore SSV Redline VF II ENGINE: V8 6.2-litre LS3 V8. Power – 304kW; Torque – 570Nm; Bi-modal exhaust with mechanical sound enhancer TRANSMISSION: Six-speed manual or automatic SUSPENSION: Revised FE3 rear sports suspension MISC.: Rear Brembo brakes; new front fascia and grille; bonnet vents; clear lens on tail-lamps (sedan only); 20-inch forged wheel option; new LED tail-lamps (Sportwagon only); colour head-up display

064Money Matters

Paul Clitheroe THE SHAREMARKET ROLLER-COASTER

T

he sharemarket has made the headlines recently, taking investors on a wild roller-coaster ride of highs and lows.

As a guide to how volatile the market has been, the S&P ASX 200 index was sitting at 5699 points at the end of July, 2015. By about mid-August it had dipped to 5380 and then fell rapidly to 5001 on Monday 24 August following the much-publicised correction on the Chinese sharemarket. Yet, by week’s end on Friday 28, just four days later, the ASX 200 had climbed back to 5263 points.

The bottom line is that in less than four weeks the overall sharemarket has dropped by around 8 per cent.

These sorts of losses are never pleasant.

And even if you don’t invest in shares directly, chances are your superannuation savings will feel the impact over the short term.

When markets behave erratically it’s natural to ask: whether share values will fall further;

how long will it take for values to recover; and what should we be doing as investors?

Unfortunately, no-one can answer the first two questions with absolute certainty. But when it comes to the appropriate course of action it’s critical to avoid hitting the panic button.

Sharemarkets are volatile by nature, capable of dishing up substantial losses – and gains - over short periods. Selling in response to a market dip only serves to lock in losses on shares that may go on to recover their value over time.

Despite the market volatility, shares also continue to be a source of healthy and tax-friendly dividend income. Over the past year Australian shares paid dividend yields averaging 4.78 per cent. That’s almost double the before-tax return your money will earn with many savings accounts.

There can be no doubt it’s a case of ‘watch this space’ when it comes to global and local shares. However, one factor in investors’

favour is that the latest bout of market volatility has occurred right in the middle of the reporting season, when our publicly listed companies issue their annual reports. It’s a chance to see how these companies have performed in the marketplace – as opposed to on a ticker board.

Long-term investors also know that market lows represent good buying opportunities.

You’ll certainly get a lot more bang for your buck on the sharemarket today than you would have a month ago, and that can translate into stronger capital gains over time.

For more information on sharemarket investing, take a look at my book Making Money.

“Selling in response to a market dip only serves to lock in losses on shares that may go on to recover their value over time.”

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

Mini bus. Mighty features.

Introducing Australia’s first and only genuine Mercedes-Benz Minibus.

It may be smaller than a regular bus, but the all-new Mercedes-Benz Minibus is packed with the latest innovations in safety, fuel efficiency and performance, setting a new benchmark for minibuses in Australia.

Whichever industry you operate in, your passengers deserve the very best in safety and comfort when travelling in your care.

Give the people what they want.

HEM1971

To find out more about the unrivalled Mercedes-Benz quality features of the new Minibus, visit www.mercedes-benz.com.au/buses

even more reasons to choose fuso A familiar sight in many fleets, Rosa has been the best selling bus in its class for eleven years running*. Now, with our School bus offering up to 50 seats including the driver, as well as our City Bus with an ultra low floor, there’s more choice then ever before.

Fuso has been producing both large and small buses in Japan for over 50 years, and our experience shows. That’s why all of our buses offer a level of quality and reliability that’s second to none. So if you’re looking for a bus you can trust, talk to your Fuso dealer today.

ROSA

SCHOOL

CH ECK OU T OU R NEW SCHOOL BUS

CITY

Call 1300 429 134 or visit fuso.com.au to find out more. *Rosa is Australia’s top-selling bus in its class for the last eleven years based on Vfacts sales volumes 2004-2014. Fuso is distributed by Mercedes-Benz Australia/Pacific Pty Ltd ACN 004 411 410. Fuso Financial is a registered business name of Mercedes-Benz Financial Services Australia Pty Ltd ABN 73 074 134 517 AFSL 247271.