Coach & Bus Issue 26 Nov-Dec -- by Transport Publishing Australia

coach&bus Issue 26 - NOV/DEC, 2016 - $6.60 incl. GST

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CITI EXTRA MEET THE BCI DOUBLE-DECK READY TO TACKLE OZ! EVENT: IAA HANNOVER, 2016 INTERNATIONAL: BUS OF THE YEAR, 2017 OPERATOR: NORTH SYDNEY BUS CHARTERS EVENT: SCANIA DRIVER COMPETITION

N E R G L VO

TOP OF S S A L C TH E

T IT U T E S B U S O N S HA U S T R A L IA A R O F G E X P ER IEN C E N I U FAC T U R N A M S U B N ARS I O V E R 35 Y E

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Global Technology

001Driver’s Seat

Fabian Cotter

“...what a horrible way to go? Burnt alive while trapped in his driver’s seat. I mean, OMG! And yeah, there’s some expletives in there, too. Poor chap!”

T WAS THE BEST of days, it was the worst of days. From a bus and coach driving perspective, seeing some of the nation’s best drivers battle it out in Melbourne for top honours at the Scania Driver Competitions last October (pages 36-43) was an intriguing as equally thrilling display of supreme skill under duress. The 11 finalists from all over Australia representing a range of companies, disciplines and backgrounds showed the strength and depth of the nation’s coach and bus-driving talent – and most certainly bodes well for the next event in 2018 and beyond. That was the best part of the day. The worst part? Well – and though I really am censoring myself here, but I’m sure you can fill in the blanks (think random 4.00am pub talk, if you catch my drift) – some ‘evil person’ decides to take the life of an innocent bus driver in Brisbane while he was doing nothing more than his job. Poor chap! And what a horrible way to go? Burnt alive while trapped in his driver’s seat, from what I understand. I mean, OMG! And yeah there’s some silent expletives in there, too. It was a day where two extreme of the bus industry were on full display: the amazing competitors in the driving event showing where the future lay and the level of industry excellence we should be aspiring and ascribing to, tainted by the very risks and dangers and stress many drivers feel each day. Not all, but many. As my bus-driving school mate tells me - who has never had a problem touch wood - there’s a bit of the luck of the draw involved each day and most commuters are good people. So it’s just one of those things, unfortunately. There was an online petition for the slain

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driver’s family to live here or come here to mourn, which I signed and agree to. I figured for as many people who don’t do the right things here – and that’s across a range of backgrounds, I assure you – sometimes you have to celebrate the ones who do the right things, and contribute positively to society. But that’s just me. In a perfect world we would send the ‘evil people’ of ALL creeds off via spaceship to some distant planet and let them all sort themselves out light-years away. That should leave some sort of real peace here on Earth for relatively good people (maybe), but that idea wouldn’t be very ‘Kum Ba Yah’ of me. But I digress... What that situation did do, though, was raise the issue of fires on buses where the driver is incapacitated and passengers would need to fend for themselves (Thank god a heroic taxi driver was able to kick the doors in from outside to save them). And while I’m sure there might not be enough science there to back suggesting having ‘anti-fire grenades’ (or fire-suppression generators) on the bus where helpless commuters can get to them, I must admit that kind of ‘silly’ idea did come to mind. I mean, most fire extinguishers are at the front of a bus or coach, right? And the onus is on the driver usually operating it, ideally. But a worst-case scenario like that where they are being burnt alive and the perpetrator is still menacingly at the front, or the front of the bus is out of bounds? I’d be wanting to throw something in that area to A) quickly put out the fire without getting too close, and B) have enough of them for passengers to throw at the baddies - like playing World Series One-Day Cricket and needing to peg it at the stumps hard to get the last batsman out to win. The stumps in this case being the arsonist. A couple of clonks to the head and body might do him good. They explode, fire is extinguished. Or hopefully lessened maybe. Dunno... Just thinkin’ out aloud. Hmm... Looks like I’m also getting on that spaceship myself. Diesel buses – where do we go from here? At the recent European International Bus of the Year 2017 awards, for the first time an electric city bus took out top honours. The Solaris Urbino 12 led a field of other electric

city buses, plus one CNG-powered bus from Daimler. Will more electric city buses win in future? Yes, it is highly likely. Is this the end for diesel-powered buses ever winning such a prestigious award again? At first glance it would certainly look like it. However, looks can be deceiving, as it were, and recent developments in biofuel use that still incorporate diesel engines might just render them cleaner running and more cost efficient for many years to come. But I’ll hopefully have more on this concertedly ambiguous ramble in a future issue soon. For now, though, this issue we check out BCI’s latest Citirider D double-decker, which is doing amazing things for the company in NZ, and which BCI is hoping will mirror itself here. Plus we visit operator North Sydney Bus Charters and see the latest Yutong vehicles that have been added to the fleet, and why. We also take a closer look at some cool charity stuff Iveco was involved in – auctioning off a Magely’s coach for UNICEF – and have a sniff around the recent massive spectacle that was the 66th biennial IAA Commercial Vehicles Show, held in Hannover, Germany. A story doesn’t really do it justice given the size and scope of it all, so if you ever have the time and capacity to somehow plonk yourself over there to check it out yourself then that really would be the way forward. Oh, and the Scania ‘disco’ coaches running around in Thailand for party people? Maybe we need more of that here. No, seriously. What if commercial vehicles criss-crossing the country – be they inter-state coaches or freight trucks – had to have such neon lighting effect at night? Too much of a distraction to onlooking drivers, or would it save lives by waking up (scaring) the sleepy ones? In the least it might reduce native road kill by letting them better see them coming, Maybe... ;) Until the next thrilling instalment...

Issue 026

Contents Regulars

CONTACT DETAILS PO Box 35 Lindfield, NSW, 2070 www.truckandbus.net.au admin@truckandbus.net.au Enquiries Tel: 02 9938 6408 Follow us on Twitter #truckandbusnews Managing Editor/Editor Fabian Cotter fabian@truckandbus.net.au Art Director Luke Melbourne luke@thekissagency.com Advertising Sales E: adsales@truckandbus.net.au T: Lauryn McGuiness, 0404 058 380 Contributing Writers Chris Smith, Barry Flanagan, David Meredith, Allen Matzel Contributing Photographers Mark Bean, Cristian Brunelli, Jan Glovac, David Meredith, Chris Smith, Paul Jakubicki, Matthew Everingham Coach & Bus magazine is published under licence by Transport Publishing Australia and is distributed to road transport professionals, fleets, business professionals and the industry throughout Australia. All material contained herein including text, photography, design elements and format are copyright and cannot be reproduced by any means without the written permission of the publisher. Grayhaze Pty.Ltd. (trading as Transport Publishing Australia) is a member of the Copyright Agency Limited (1800 066 844).

01 04 18 34 61 62 64

Driver’s Seat

Editor Cotter ponders the skills and safety of bus drivers, the future of diesel and indulges in a neon-bus, TRON-movie-type fetish.

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 – Long Division

Key global bus markets are forging a trend for mega-articulated buses and Sweden’s major manufacturers are answering the call, big time. Is there scope for such product here? Fabian Cotter reports.

In Depth – Boogie Nights

Party buses just went to the next level, with one Thai company running a fleet of the latest Scanias that would give DJs in Ibiza a run for their money on any given night. 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?

Company Car

Brava! Bellissima! Get out all the feminine Italian superlatives you know because the ‘Boot country’ vixen that is the 375kW twin-turbo V6 Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio is coming. Fabian Cotter reports.

Money

We are said to have one of the best superannuation systems in the world, so why not use it wisely? And early! The benefits are there to be had, as our resident financial guru Paul Clitheroe explains.

Editorial contributions are welcome for consideration. Contact the Editor or Publisher for guidelines, fees and level of interest. All unsolicited manuscripts must be accompanied by a stamp, addressed envelope for their return. We will not be held responsible for material supplied electronically.

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25th

COMMEMORATIVE ISSUE

tial PILOT HOT LONG BLAC PresidenAUTO K Sweet CK'SLANDMARK HANDS-FREE LOW-FLOOR BONLU MEET DAIMLER'S MEET MEET KING LONG'S CLASSY AFFAIR LATES LAUNCHED: HINO PONCHO DDA IN DEPTH: BUS BACK PAIN

and Trevor O’Brien SCANIA's Julian Gurney - Germany INTERVIEW: VDS system EVENT: IT-TRANS, 2016 CBT25_p000_COV_v4.indd 1 Transwa TECH: VOLVO's i8 revealed OPERATOR: INTERNATIONAL: Irizar

CBT23_p000_COV.indd

PM 30/03/2016 5:40

OPERATOR: BUS QUEENSLAND OPERATOR INTERVIEW: MERC'S: Tassielink MICHAEL INTERNATI MAY TECH: Cam Mirrors

CBT24_p000_COV_v2.indd

T COACH CREAT ION

ONAL: MAN Lion's Intercity INDUSTRY: Scania Driver Award launched 12/10/2016 4:37 PM

4/07/2016 7:43 AM

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“...visitors have been able to immerse themselves in this new world of mobility and logistics and experience it directly.”

Features

Uptown Funk

North Sydney Bus Charters

COVERSTORY: Buoyed by solid sales success across New Zealand, BCI’s stunning Citirider D double-decker is ready to take on Australia’s major cities by storm. It’s a tough market, so does it have the goods? Fabian Cotter reports.

OPERATOR: Tennis and coaches sound like the natural mix, but take on whole new dimension when it comes to North Sydney Bus Charters, which literally married the sport of tennis with coaches as WE know them. Barry Flanagan reports.

Drive It Like You Didn’t Steal It! EVENT: The biennial Scania Driver Competitions are becoming a bit of an industry institution here in Australia now, with some of the best truck and bus drivers battling it out for top honours. A strong field of 11 finalists pit their skills and brains against each other. Fabian Cotter headed to Melbourne to check it out.

IAA Hannover, 2016

Back In Black

EVENT: When it comes to commercial vehicle shows they don’t get much bigger than the biennial IAA in Hannover, Germany. For 2016, an array of quality buses and coaches were there in the flesh to check out and explore. Fabian Cotter reports.

FEATURE: Iveco’s proud association with the champion New Zealand All Blacks rugby team came to the aid of charity UNICEF, which received the auction proceeds of a bespoke Magely’s team-transport coach, recently. Fabian Cotter reports.

Pole Position

INTERNATIONAL: In a sign of the times, the recent European International Bus of the Year was announced and the 2017 crown went to Polish manufacturer Solaris for its Urbino 12 – the electric version. Is this the future? Fabian Cotter reports.

UpFront

DIESEL BUSES DEAD OR PLENTY OF LIFE YET? MAYORS AND LEADERS of some of the world’s most influential publictransport-dependant cities have passed judgement recently on the fate of the diesel bus and it’s not looking good – or is it? Such was the sentiment and issues discussed at the recent historic C40 Mayors Summit, held in Mexico late 2016. The global event focussed attention on the world’s transport needs, and came at a time where Volvo just launched the world’s largest bus – the electric Gran Artic 300 – in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. With a low-carbon future the aim of most cities represented, it was overwhelmingly agreed that outdoor pollution is now the biggest single killer in the world. Statistics indicate that the toll of toxic air is expected to double as urban populations increase and the number of cars in the world reaches 2 billion by 2050. Outdoor air pollution levels have risen dramatically and only last March the World Health Organisation (WHO) warned that levels have risen 8 per cent globally in the past five years. Billions of people are exposed to dangerous air and outdoor air pollution now causes more than 3 million deaths per year – more than malaria and HIV/ Aids, it’s claimed. Following the UN’s 2015 Climate Change Conference in Paris (COP21), mayors from around the world gathered in Mexico City to discuss the growing climate change crisis. They urged immediate action to address the unacceptable levels of pollution facing major urban areas. Academics, city planners and a host of experts discussed energy efficiency, lowcarbon transport and climate resilience amongst other current important

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sustainability issues. The number of expected bus journeys taken in cities is expected to grow by nearly 50 per cent by 2030 and will hopefully reduce the number of private cars on the roads. However, buses travel up to 10 times further than the average passenger vehicle making their emissions impact greater – particularly those that are poorly maintained and in need of renewal, experts insist. However, not everyone is quick to praise initiatives to remove diesel fuel use. The US-based Diesel Technology Forum (DTF) conceded that the mayors of four cities - Paris, Madrid, Mexico City and Athens – had announced they had pledged to remove diesel vehicles from their cities by 2025. It also noted that five African countries - Ghana, Ivory Coast, Togo, Nigeria and Benin announced they would reject shipments of high-sulfur diesel fuel from Europe and demanded they begin receiving cleaner diesel fuel like that available in many other regions of the world. DTF executive director Allen Schaeffer responded stating: “The pledge by the four mayors to ban diesel or any other technology may make for a good headline, but it is not good public policy. It runs against the popular consumer choice, it may make air quality worse, and it will likely put achieving climate change objectives further out of reach.” “In contrast, the five African nations that recognise the opportunity for bringing in cleaner technology, and the need for ultra-low sulfur diesel fuel, will move forward. In the United States, cleaner diesel fuel and new diesel engines now achieve near-zero emissions and are an important part of the strategy to achieve cleaner air and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The new diesel technology also meets the

high fuel-economy needs of consumers without sacrificing vehicle performance or mobility. “The newest generation of clean diesel technology virtually eliminates emissions while still achieving low CO2 emissions,” he explained. “Technologies like electric or hydrogen vehicles may provide new options for consumers at some point in the future, but are not likely to be available in the time-frames and scale that these cities need to achieve continued reductions in CO2. Pledging to ban diesel vehicles distorts the signals to the markets and works against sustained progress toward both climate and clean air goals. Conversely, at the Mexico Summit Volvo was quick to highlight its advancements in bus electromobility. The company has supplied 3000 hybrid and electric buses globally and the number continues to rise with the highest number of vehicles circulating in the UK, Colombia, Sweden, Spain and Germany, it’s claimed. Cities are being urged to adopt electromobility transport solutions and include electric and hybrid vehicles. Last year, 26 global cities signed the C40 Clean Bus Declaration to shift part of their fleets to ‘clean vehicles. If all 26 cities switched their entire fleet to Low Emission Vehicles (LEV), 2.8 tons of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions could be saved each year – the equivalent of taking almost 590,000 cars off the road, it’s stated. Håkan Agnevall, president of Volvo Bus Corporation said: “Cities around the world are taking positive steps in addressing the global transport issues by initiating LEV systems. As both environmentally clean and comfortable, we believe electric bus systems are the future of urban public transport.”

LONDON CALLING AS REPORTED recently on www. fastcoexist.com, all new singledecker buses in London, England, will be zero-emissions. New hybridengined double-decker buses will still exist, but pure-diesel buses are now no more. London’s mayor, Sadiq Khan, made the announcement recently when he launched a new hydrogenpowered double-decker. The mayor’s plan is to clean up London’s deadly air, which causes 10,000 premature deaths each year. Part of this plan is to phase out dirty diesel buses. The city will buy around 300 zero-emissions buses by 2020. To date, there are 51 battery-only buses in service, and three of London’s bus routes are already fully electric. London’s commitment to cleaner air is part of a Europe-wide push to remove dirty transit from its cities, and cities outside Europe are joining in. According to the mayor’s office, eleven other cities, including New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Amsterdam, Copenhagen, and Cape Town, all also plan to stop buying diesel buses by 2020. “I want London to become a world leader in hydrogen and electric bus technology,” said Khan “It’s great that more cities are getting on board to phase out the procurement of pure diesel buses, which sends a clear signal that only the cleanest technologies are wanted in our cities.”

A Volvo electric bus champions the cause of the latest technology. 2 HĂĽkan Agnevall, president of Volvo Bus Corporation. 3 Although it could be an announcement regarding the next season of Game of Thrones, it was actually a discussion about diesel. 1

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UpFront

OPEN OPPCHARGE STATION FOR BUSES A JOINT PROJECT has seen Volvo Buses and ABB start a charging station for electric buses based on the open OppCharge interface, it’s been reported recently. OppCharge is an open interface between the charging equipment and vehicle, offering a 150kW and 300kW charge. All moving parts are integrated into the charging pylon. A 3-6 minute charge is sufficient for 30 minutes of driving, it’s claimed. Conductive static charge takes place via a pantograph, with communication between bus and charging station via Wi-Fi. The bus has roof-mounted contact rails that can handle all weather conditions from -25 C to +45 C.

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With OppCharge, electrified buses and charging stations from different manufacturers can be used together. The aim is to facilitate the introduction of electric bus systems in cities the world over. This is ABB’s first charging station for electric buses in Sweden. It is installed outside Volvo’s electric bus terminal in Arendal, Gothenburg, Sweden, and the aim is the development and commercialisation of electric buses and electric hybrid buses equipped with systems for DC opportunity charging using open standards. Demonstrations of buses and charging stations both as products and systems offer a clear picture of what installation at the customer’s

premises looks like, it’s stated. With the new charging station, Volvo is demonstrating that the company’s electric buses are compatible with chargers from several different manufacturers, it’s claimed. The buses operating on route 55 are now charged using systems delivered by ABB and Siemens. Last European spring, Volvo along with several other bus and infrastructure manufacturers - took the initiative to create an open, standardised interface between charging equipment and vehicles. Volvo Buses has delivered hitherto more than 2800 electric hybrids and electric buses to 21 countries the world over.

SMART STEERING SAVES FUEL DAIMLER BUSES WILL now rely on intelligent power steering systems in all buses with a gross weight exceeding 7.5t, to save fuel. Thanks to electro-hydraulic power steering (EHPS), the fully integrated system replaces the conventional power steering pumps used nowadays in all buses over such weight. Thanks to the demand-based actuation of the electric power steering pump, which had previously been powered by the combustion engine, steering assist can in future be used regardless of the engine speed, it’s stated. As a result of the conveniently positioned component in the vehicle, the unit - consisting of a three-phase current synchronous motor, control unit, highperformance electrical system and hydraulic pump in a single housing - enables simple visual inspections of the power steering fluid reservoir and its fill level. Short hydraulic pipes also ensure system-based friction loss is significantly reduced within the hydraulic circuit. The intelligent control system converts vehicle data to a demand-based actuation of the electrically operated 24 V pump – consequently, it provides the right amount of steering assistance depending on the driving situation. All in all, this adds up to a significant fuel saving, reportedly. The system was developed in collaboration with the Engineering Center Steyr GmbH & Co. KG, based in the Austrian town of St. Valentin, and has already been awarded the ‘Innovation Label’ by the specialist panel of the European Coach Week (ECW) at the international Busworld 2015 specialist trade fair in Kortrijk, Belgium. Daimler plans to offer the system for Mercedes-Benz Citaro city buses as optional equipment from mid-2017.

Join our lead in hybrid technology

With more than 2500 hybrid buses in operation, Volvo is the world leader. Perhaps explained by the fact that we offer the most fuel-efficient and reliable hybrid bus on the market: fuel savings of up to 39%, reduced emissions by close to 50% and proven to be No. 1 hybrid in uptime. Electric drive is far more efficient than combustion. In addition energy is constantly recovered when braking and going downhill. Furthermore, passengers on-board, at the bus stop as well as nearby residents will enjoy the silent take off in electric mode. Welcome to join our journey towards cleaner and profitable public transportation at volvobuses.com/australia

VOLVO B5R LE HYBRID

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UpFront

INDUCTION CHARGING TESTS START THE NORDIC REGION’s first bus service featuring wireless (inductive) bus stop charging has started, Scania reports. A newly developed electric hybrid bus will be operated in regular urban traffic in Södertälje, Sweden, as part of the efforts to identify new more-sustainable solutions for public transport in urban environments, it’s claimed. This is the first time the technology is being tested in the Nordic region and both the bus and bus stop solution are part of a research project where Scania, the public transport operator for the Stockholm region SL, Vattenfall, Södertälje Municipality and the Royal Institute of Technology (KTH), are cooperating to develop a silent and sustainable public transport system. The project is partly financed by the Swedish Energy Agency. For the first time ever, this type of technology is also being tested for a more extreme climate, which this type of infrastructure must also cope with to be relevant in more northerly parts of

the world. Wireless bus stop charging means that the bus parks over a charging segment located under the road surface at the charging station, where charging occurs automatically. The design of the inductive technology has been adapted so as not to disturb existing urban environments and is essentially invisible. Seven minutes of wireless charging is enough to cover the entire 10 km route, which the bus will operate in Södertälje. “The electric hybrid bus in this project demonstrates a technology track for a more sustainable transport solution. The inductive charging technology is both silent and invisible. The field test in Södertälje is important ahead of the choices facing both society and the automotive industry with regard to eliminating emissions and reducing noise from traffic in sensitive urban environments,” said Hedvig Paradis, project manager at Scania and responsible for the company’s participation in the research project. The cost of the wireless bus stop charging

project amounts to just over SEK 38 million (approx. AUD$5,590,820), of which Scania is investing SEK 22 million. The Swedish Energy Agency has granted almost SEK 10 million in research funding, which will be divided among the Royal Institute of Technology, Scania and SL. “This is one of several projects Scania is conducting in order to find solutions for future sustainable transport services in cities,” said Anders Grundströmer, head of recently started Scania Sustainable City Solutions. “We are working on identifying the needs of cities and on creating systems for eco-friendly, fast, secure and cost-effective transport solutions, which are based on locally produced alternative fuels including electrification.” The bus that Scania will test in Södertälje’s urban traffic is a hybrid, featuring technology where the bus’s batteries are also charged during operation by utilising braking power. Charging may also occur using the bus’s combustion engine, which operates on fossil-free fuel.

HOW IT HAPPENS Electrification of the transport sector will demand various technologies and solutions – both in terms of where and how vehicles are charged. Charging can either occur when vehicles are stationary at depots and bus stops or during operation. For charging during operation the alternatives are conductive charging via a pantograph or inductive charging – or a combination of these techniques. The choice of solution depends on what transport task will be performed. The size and weight of the batteries, which can be carried on board the vehicle, for example, determines how much of the charging must occur while in service.

BUS SPECS MODEL: Scania Citywide LE4x2 POWERTRAIN: Parallel hybrid, integrated with the Gearbox (GRS895); Electrical engine capacity – 130kW; Battery - Li-Ion 56kWh; Combustion engine: 9-litre 320hp diesel (operates on biodiesel)

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UpFront

INTERLINE MAKES TRANSMISSION CHANGE SYDNEY’S INTERLINE BUS SERVICE one of the largest non-government bus fleets in the metropolitan area - has made a cultural shift in purchasing new Daewoo buses equipped with Allison fully automatic transmissions. Primarily servicing the burgeoning south-western suburbs of Sydney, the company made the decision based on a lower ‘whole of life’ costing and proven reliability, it’s claimed. Interline had previously mainly bought European-sourced buses; however, a lower overall purchase price and the reputation for dependability of the Allison transmission proved key for company CEO Joe Oliveri’s decision. Oliveri says the Allison-equipped Daewoos have performed very well in a number of areas, including passenger comfort, reduced brake wear and driver acceptance. He also cites the fact Allison and its distributor, Heavy Automatics, have been working hard on adapting shift points and programming the

One of the new Daewoos with K06 Allison T280R LoR transmission.

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transmissions to deliver improved fuel consumption for the Daewoos. “We had some exposure to Allison transmissions in the past and they were always very good, so we were keen to use them again and that was one of the reasons for moving to Daewoo,” said Oliveri. “We are very focused on fuel economy and reducing operating costs and Allison has been able to improve the economy of our Daewoos by reprogramming the shift patterns, applying load-based shifting,” he added. Since being added to the Interline fleet, shift management and reprogramming have resulted in a claimed 9.5 per cent improvement in fuel economy, and Joe Oliveri says there is still more improvement to come. “Fuel is the key to competitiveness in the bus market and we are very focused on this, we work on it constantly and we will continue to target better efficiency. Allison has proved just as focused and

has delivered much better results as a result of their work on adapting the programming to suit our operation,” he said. Oliveri adds that the Allison transmission’s retarder is another key feature that has helped improve the efficiency of the Interline fleet. “The retarder is very good and, in fact, we have been able to reduce our brake pad wear by 75 per cent. On our European buses we have to change brake linings at around 80,000km, but with the Allison-equipped Daewoos we have been regularly achieving 140,000km from the linings before needing a change,” he explained. “The passenger comfort is also a big factor and the Allison shifts are smooth both under acceleration and while slowing down and in traffic,” he said. “The key has been the adaptation and the work that Allison has done to continually improve the operation and fuel efficiency. We operate on a

cents-per-kilometre basis and we constantly monitor that figure - and at this point the Allison-equipped Daewoos are performing extremely well when the cost of the bus, brake wear and maintenance and the fuel is taken into account,” Oliveri concluded. The Interline Daewoos are used every day on the company’s toughest routes with a variety of conditions from stopstart traffic and slow-speed running in the more densely populated suburbs to higher speed running in semi-rural areas. The Oliveri family has been in the bus business since 1961 when Interline bus Service was first formed. Today the company operates a fleet of 94 buses in NSW and a further 32 buses in a separate subsidiary company in Queensland. The company operates more than 22 regular routes form its base at Macquarie Fields in Sydney’s South West.

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UpFront

HIGER ELECTRIC CITIBUS ON NOOSA TRIAL THE FIRST Higer electric Citibus in Australia will be on a six-month trail with Noosa Council in 2017, after the China-based bus manufacturer won the tender in June. “The team at Higer Bus and Coach were great to work with while trying to get this over the line. They were cooperative and we were able to negotiate a deal that will benefit all parties involved,” said Noosa Council’s Planning and Infrastructure director, Martin Drydale. “This technology has been used with great success overseas since 2006. We can’t wait to road-test it here in Noosa,”

added Drydale. According to Higer, China leads the world in new energy technology with more electric buses built to date than the remainder of the world combined, and Higer says it has “worked long and hard to advance the bus industry’s electric capabilities in the Australian market”. Higer utilises super-capacitor storage technology, which is said to provide a faster charge, is lightweight and has a longer lifespan than traditional Li-Ion batteries. The super-capacitor harvests power from regenerative braking, releasing

power as required and minimising power usage. This technology is perfectly suited to urban applications due to its stop-start nature, it’s claimed. In its pure electric form, the Higer Citibus can cover more than 20km after less than 10 minutes charge time, it’s claimed. Charging is via an innovative overhead gantry charging system. This means that a bus could complete a typical suburban route, and charge back to full while the driver prepares for the next run at a station or interchange, the company explains. The innovative design and technology in the full electric Citibus sees Higer

demonstrate its continued improvement in quality and reliability that has been embedded across their entire range, it adds. “This is an exciting time for Higer in Australia. Higer’s quality and reliability has come such a long way in Australia and the innovation being applied to these new energy buses exceeds all our expectations,” said Neil Bamford, general manager of Higer Bus and Coach Australia. “We are looking forward to a positive trial with Noosa Council, which should see the introduction of more electric buses in Australia”.

Scania Drivers Competition 2016: Winner Announced in Perth CONGRATULATIONS to Greyhound Australia’s Damien Christensen [pictured centre] from Townsville, Queensland, who eventually won the biennial Scania Best Bus Driver competition this year. He was closely

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followed by Leah Hahn from Mees Bus Lines in Victoria in second, and Tim Krekt from Sunstate Charters in third. The winner was announced at a dinner function held during the recent 2016 BIC Conference, in Perth.

The field of 11 finalists was exceptionally strong this year. Congratulations to all who participated. Well done! Read the full story pages 36-44 this issue of Coach & Bus magazine. n

[L-R] Leah Hahn, Damien Christense and Tim Krekt.

UpFront ROUTE BUSES – WHAT’S THE COST? REALLY? AUSTRALIA’s first-ever model to investigate and test the life-costs of Australian bus bodies has been developed at Monash University, in Melbourne, involving leading academics across design, accounting and public transport. The model was developed in response to Australian bus body-builder Volgren setting Monash the challenge to investigate life-cycle cost differences between its buses and others in the Australian market. Dr Robbie Napper, senior lecturer of Monash Art Design and Architecture, led the research and said the model would ‘level the playing field’ for any operator, manufacturer and public transport provider that’s interested to know what their bus costs. “What started off as a simple question has led to a detailed and robust model that has far-reaching benefits across the wider bus industry and public transport sector,” Napper explained.

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“Life-cycle cost as a term is frequently thrown around, but until now there’s been little research to actually [quantify] and test different models. “Now we have the means to ... better understand whole-of-life costs and to be more precise on cost-generating activities, such as fuel, tyres and refits.” Dr Napper and his team collected data from three operators in two states and tracked the life-cycle costs of nine buses for a 12-month period. “Information was obtained from operators by means of data reports and in-person interviews that allowed us to better understand some of the nuances around servicing, accident repair, refit and disposal - which are not easily represented in the model.” “The data collected has been compiled into a major comparative research report. The participating operators or comparative bus bodies are not identified to protect the confidentiality of their data

input,” he explained. Dr Napper says based on a bus travelling 62,000km per year, Volgren delivered a lifetime saving of $36,000 in fuel and a further saving of $20,000 in repairs and refit costs – thus a lower life-cycle cost of 7.3 per cent than that of comparative bus bodies, it’s claimed. “Body structure design has the largest impact within the elements studied, with cost savings tied to the materials used in the body, ‘repairability’ and, in some cases, the ability to achieve substantial savings in mid-life refit. Fuel-use reductions, achieved through a lower vehicle mass, also had a substantial influence in reduction of life-cycle cost,” Napper said. Volgren chief executive Peter Dale says he hoped Monash’s work would be used to educate the industry on life-cycle costs and encourage operators to seek greater clarity from bus body manufacturers.

“Looking at a bus operator’s bottom line, it’s not about price! It’s about the lowest cost of total ownership,” Dale said. “Our strategy is about producing safe, high-quality buses with the lowest whole-of-life costs, reducing the need for constant bus repairs and improving regular maintenance.” Dale added that the comparative study highlighted Volgren’s market-leading positioning of lowest life-cycle costs though its unique aluminium Co-BOLT technology. “The work by Monash independently quantifies that Volgren’s Optimus bus is not only lighter, stronger and safer than steel-framed buses, but it also delvers the lowest lifetime costs,” Dale said. Dr Napper and his team at Monash are recruiting additional operators to participate in the study and will also start the process of having their Life-cycle Cost model peer reviewed by other leading academics.

SUNSHINE WEST DEPOT OPENS A NEW BUS depot will improve working conditions for drivers and help deliver more reliable services for passengers in Melbourne’s west, according to Victoria’s Parliamentary Secretary for Public Transport Ros Spence. Secretary Spence joined representatives from Transdev and Public Transport Victoria to open the new Sunshine West Depot, recently Sunshine West is one of three stateof-the art bus depots being constructed as part of a $40 million investment including Heatherton, which is already in operation, and Thomastown, which will be completed in 2017. The new $13.7 million Sunshine West

Depot, at 70 Vella Drive in Sunshine West, will house up to 200 staff. Initially, 70 buses will be stabled at the depot, with the capacity to increase to 100 as service demand grows, it’s claimed. Seven routes will operate from the Sunshine West Depot including the 215, 216, 219, 220, 223, 232 and 903. The Andrews Labor Government is also investing a further $100 million to improve bus services across Melbourne, including the introduction of new and expanded routes in growth areas and better integration of the bus and rail networks, it’s claimed. “The new Sunshine West Depot will

ensure drivers have access to better facilities, to continue to get locals safely where they need to go every day,” Parliamentary Secretary for Public Transport Ros Spence said. “We know demand for services is growing, which is why we are upgrading and modernising the network — making it easier to run more reliable services for passengers across Melbourne’s west.” Member for Footscray Marsha Thomson said: “This new depot will be home to up to 200 staff and potentially 100 buses, and is all part of our plan to improve bus services for residents out west.”

for Public Parliamentary Secretary s the tapedoe nce Spe Ros rt spo Tran cutting formalities.

SYDNEY B-LINE CONTRACT AWARDED FULTON HOGAN CONSTRUCTION has been awarded the contract to deliver several major infrastructure projects as part of the new Northern Beaches B-Line bus service, Transport for NSW announced recently. NSW Premier Mike Baird announced Fulton Hogan Construction had been given the green light to deliver new commuter carparks, bus stops and road improvements. “We are taking action to deliver a more reliable and more comfortable bus service for people commuting between the Northern Beaches and the Sydney

CBD,” Premier Baird said. “We are on track to deliver the most convenient public transport option the Northern Beaches has ever had, and this complements our recent announcement for the contract to deliver 38 brand new double-deck buses.” Fulton Hogan Construction Pty Ltd will be responsible for delivering new commuter carparks at Mona Vale, Warriewood, Narrabeen and Manly Vale, creating more than 900 new spaces where customers will be able to drop off their car and link with the B-Line for their journey into the CBD.

The company will also deliver 18 new bus stops along the B-Line route at Mona Vale, Warriewood, Narrabeen, Collaroy, Dee Why, Brookvale, Manly Vale, Spit Junction and Neutral Bay. The new bus stops will include improve facilities for customers and feature real-time service information for passengers. There are a number of road improvements planned for the B-Line route including new bus bays, minor lane widening and new signals at certain intersections. Some of these will be completed before the first B-Line services roll out

late 2017 with all of the work completed by 2019 when the full benefits of the programme will be realised. The Northern Beaches B-Line will be serviced by a fleet of 38 state-of-theart double-deck buses, which have been designed with the comfort of the customer in mind with features including individual seating with more legroom and charging stations for mobile devices at most seats. The turn-up-and-go services will run at least every 10 minutes across the week, with services arriving every five minutes in peak times in the peak direction.

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UpFront 100,000TH ZF ECOLIFE PRODUCED ZF IS CELEBRATING the 100,000th EcoLife transmission recently rolling off the line - an important milestone in the production of its popular automatic, the company states. Frequent setting off, stopping and setting off again in city traffic is the norm for buses and ZF says its EcoLife six-speed automatic transmission not only makes driving easier for bus and coach drivers, but its many functions also help reduce fuel consumption. Its newest feature, an innovative start-stop function, will improve fuel efficiency even further, it’s claimed. “Whether it’s for a city bus or coach, EcoLife meets the demands of all bus

applications,” Andreas Moser, head of Axle and Transmission Systems for Buses and Coaches Business Unit at ZF said. “The transmission combines high performance with high efficiency, low noise levels and fuel savings.” Moreover, with its innovative startstop function for city driving designed for the popular six-speed automatic transmission, ZF has developed an additional way to reduce fuel consumption, it’s stated. The TopDyn Life control software is yet another feature that helps improve fuel efficiency. Factoring in current driving resistances, it selects the best shifting strategy for the respective topography

and also adjusts the braking force, with the possibility to reduce fuel consumption by up to five per cent, the company states. Additionally, the integrated primary retarder is incorporated into the vehicle’s brake management system and supports high braking power even at low speeds, thus reducing the demand on the vehicle’s service brakes. The EcoLife automatic is available in seven versions with input torques ranging 1000-2300Nm, ensuring an efficient and powerful drive in buses up to 32 tonnes gross vehicle weight. ZF has been producing the EcoLife automatic transmission since 2007.

ANNIVERSARY BOOKLET RELEASED HAVING CELEBRATED its 25th Anniversary in 2016, Whites Diesels is releasing a special commemorative booklet that marks the occasion, interviewing 11 people and companies about their automotive passion, with an interesting yarn from Sean Bray from Ulladulla Buses. Whites Diesels customers and main

suppliers will start receiving this booklet early next year. This is a special publication to highlight what’s driven the company since it was founded in 1991. Within its pages are stories and images that exemplify that passion, from staffers, customers and suppliers alike, the company states. These narratives demonstrate why

these great people work with Whites and why Whites loves having them as part of its history, the company states. “Their zeal and ardour for motor vehicles – whether cars, bikes, trucks or buses - matches our own.” The stories will also be published online: www.whitesdiesels.com. au/1926-chevy-resto/

1 The six-speed EcoLife automatic 2 EcoLife has been produced since

2007; its 100,000th unit just rolled off the line.

ON-DEMAND BUSES – DOABLE? TRANSPORT FOR NSW is now accepting expressions of interest to develop a series of pilots trialling public transport services that turn up when and where customers need them to. Industry groups have an open invitation to pitch innovative models for on-demand services that offer more personalised and flexible technology-enabled solutions that improve the quality of life for customers right across the state. Customer Services deputy secretary Tony Braxton-Smith said partnering with industry leaders would put Transport for NSW at the forefront of the technology revolution. “New and emerging technologies are changing the way that businesses operate with customers now expecting to get what they want when they want it, and transport needs to keep up,” Braxton-Smith said. “The beauty of on-demand services is that they could improve the convenience and reliability of public transport for all customers, not just those on main transport routes. “Staying ahead of the curve when it comes to adopting the latest technologies is a priority for Transport for NSW, which is why we developed the Future Transport Technology Roadmap earlier this year. “Cultivating more personalised and tailored services is a key target identified in the Roadmap and this project is an important step towards that goal. Successful ideas will generate great opportunities for the market in future service contracts. “The most innovative ideas often come through collaboration which is why we want leaders in the technology and transport industries to work with us to develop a clever, creative solution.” Expressions of interest in the On Demand Transport Pilot should be submitted through the NSW e-Tendering website by 24 February 2017. Following an evaluation period, all pilot programs are expected to be operational by the end of 2017.

SYDNEY BUSES CHRISTMAS COMP LAST DECEMBER, THERE was some extra festive cheer on the streets of Sydney with State Transit drivers taking part in the annual Christmas Bus Competition. Every year, State Transit drivers deck their buses with tinsel and decorations, brightening the days of customers over the holiday period. Some staff go the extra mile for their customers, adorning Santa suits and hats, adding festive cheer to many journeys around Sydney. On 14 December, three of the city’s favourite buses gathered outside Central Station to compete to be the ‘Best Decorated’ bus of

Christmas Bus Judges: Alexander, Max and CBD coordinator general, Marg Prendergast

2016. This year a very special guest judge picked out the overall winner. Ten-year-old Alexander, a patient at Sydney Children’s Hospital at Randwick, judged buses from Mona Vale, Kingsgrove and Waverley depots to choose the bus with the most Christmas magic. With help from CBD coordinator general Marg Prendergast, Alexander decided the Mona Vale depot bus would take out the crown this year. “It’s obvious that many hours have been put in by dedicated staff to get these buses looking so spectacular,” Prendergast said.

“This is the 11th year of the State Transit competition and we know, based on the positive feedback we receive each year, just how much our customers love the Christmas buses. “It’s fantastic to see staff going the extra mile and spreading the cheer this festive season as they transport the people of Sydney during this busy period.” The team from Mona Vale depot was presented with $500 to be donated to their charity of choice. In addition, State Transit matched this donation and contributed $500 to Sydney Children’s Hospital.

In Depth

Volvo’s massive Gran Artic 300 - chassis [Right] and body [Below].

LONG DIVISION

Articulated buses redefined the notion of ‘big buses’ being more than a few extra feet and seats. With Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) crucial to transport needs in regions like South America, the need to maximise capacity has led to almost ‘train rivalling’ manufacturing guidelines. Sweden’s bus giants have risen to the challenge. Coach & Bus editor Fabian Cotter reports.

BRT system high-demand transportation systems where buses run on dedicated lanes makes a lot of sense in a lot of regions, so when the traditional logic of rail or light rails networks don’t make practical or financial sense, buses are the saviour for many a city. In South America, the entrenched need to have an effective and reliable BRT systems has seen various governments and regions essentially define what manufacturers need to be striving for when it comes to producing suitable articulated buses, whether it be for efficiency, reliability or carrying capacity. Both Scania and Volvo recently launched two world-leading

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articulated bus chassis - ‘biartics’, or even ‘mega artics’ as some will say - that aim to enhance the quality of service of the BRTs they are used in, for a range of operator and commuter reasons. Last December, Scania unveiled the world’s first bi-articulated Euro6 gas bus, it’s claimed. The 26-metre front-engine bus has an impressive capacity for 250 passengers. “This large bus is specially designed for mobility-enhancing Bus Rapid Transit systems and each bus can actually replace 125 cars - with two passengers in each - on congested urban roads,” said Rutger Hörndahl, Product manager BRT at Scania Buses and Coaches. “The efficient gas-powered engine will help decrease energy

consumption and reduce urban pollution,” he added. The bi-articulated F340 HA 8X2 bus was developed in collaboration with Colombian bus body-builder Busscar de Colombia. Scania already has its largest Euro6 gas bus fleet in the Colombian city of Cartagena. Their capacity for high-altitude operations without loss of power and torque has been verified through independent tests, the company states. Gas operations can significantly reduce particulate matter emissions, it says. Additionally, when operated with biogas, carbon emissions can be reduced by up to 90 per cent compared with conventional diesel. Carbon emissions are also slightly lower when using natural gas. Gas operations

have the added advantage of a substantially lower noise level, the company says. Scania is convinced that the innovative bi-articulated bus will be of increasing interest to cities around the world as they now address urban pollution and reducing their carbon footprint, according to Scania. Its homeland commercialvehicle-manufacturing rival Volvo also recently launched an amazing ‘mega artic’ for that region, at the FetransRio exhibition in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Touted as the world’s largest bus chassis, the new bi-articulated chassis - known as the ‘Gran Artic 300’, measures 30 metres in length and can carry up to 300 passengers, it’s stated. “We are leaders in vehicles for high-capacity transportation

The world’s first bi-articulated Euro6 gas bus, from Scania.

systems, Bus Rapid Transit, and now we introduce the world’s largest bus chassis. This vehicle will provide more efficient transportation systems, offering a higher quality for the passengers and improved cost efficiency for the transport operators,” said Fabiano Todeschini, head of Volvo Bus Latin America. The new Gran Artic 300 has been developed in Brazil especially for BRT systems. The bus will be able to carry up to 30 passengers more than the preceding model, according to Volvo. One bi-articulated bus of the model is said to replace three standard vehicles. At the FetransRio exhibition, Volvo also unveiled a new 22-metre articulated chassis, the Super Artic 210. In addition to the higher transportation capacity,

210 passengers, it is equipped with five doors. The extra door facilitates boarding and alighting and also enables a better passenger distribution inside the bus, it’s stated. The vehicle is built on only three axles. The high-capacity buses reduce the number of vehicles operating in the bus corridors, leading to an increased average speed of the system as well as reduced emissions, it says. Volvo has delivered more than 4000 buses to the BRT-systems of Curitiba, Bogot·, Guatemala City, Mexico City, Santiago de Chile and San Salvador. “We are proud to say that the world’s largest bus is a Volvo and that it was developed in Brazil,” said Idam Stival, Sales engineering coordinator, Volvo Bus Latin America.

“...that aim to enhance the quality of service of the BRTs they are used in, for a range of operator and commuter reasons.” VOLVO HIGH-CAPACITY RANGE Chassis model:

Length:

Passenger capacity:

Artic 150

18.6 m

150

Artic 180

21 m

180

Super Artic 210

22 m

210

Gran Artic 300

30 m

300

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Coverstory

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Photography: Cristian Brunelli

UPTOWN FUNK Increased passenger capacity can only come about two ways. And if you aren’t going ‘sideways’ then you’ve got to go ‘skyways’. BCI is the latest manufacturer to introduce doubledecker product to the Australian market, proving with its integral Citirider D that you’ve got to sometimes go up to really ‘get down’. Coach & Bus editor Fabian Cotter reports.

ans of Alfred Hitchcock’s psychological thriller Vertigo may feel a bit queasy at the thought of being up so high when travelling in a double-decker bus, but they’d be in the minority and, truth be told, it’s not that far up come to think of it. Just ask any giraffe. Double-deckers are again proving their worth in certain states and areas of Australia, such as in NSW and Victoria, and are a logical way for operators to transport an increased number of commuters safely and comfortably if and when articulated buses are not cost, legally, or logistically feasible.

In recent years, double-deckers have become an increasingly popular fleet addition and or proposition ever since trials of the Bustech CDi were introduced in Sydney in 2012. And as of late, NSW seems the ripest market for such vehicles given the State Government last June announcing a $108 million bus boost in the 2016-17 NSW Budget. This would see double-deckers serving some of Sydney’s busiest routes, and around 3800 extra weekly services added, as announced by Minister for Transport and Infrastructure Andrew Constance and Treasurer Gladys Berejiklian at the time.

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For that State, the 80-seat double-deckers can carry 65 per cent more capacity than normal-size buses, the Government was quick to state, and will be used on key corridors including the busy Rouse Hill-City service (route 607X), between Blacktown and Macquarie Park (route 611), and for the first time, the Liverpool-Parramatta Transitway (route T80). “Thousands of Sydneysiders rely on bus travel every day to get from A to B and we know demand for services is continually increasing, particularly in growth centres in the North West and South West, as well as in inner-city areas like Green Square,” Minister Constance said. “This is all about staying ahead of the curve to ensure customers have sufficient levels of service well into the future. Minister Berejiklian said the Government would continue to fund more services and infrastructure in the upcoming Budget. “These double-decker buses have allowed us to deliver good customer outcomes and we are pleased to be rolling out more of them across Sydney,” the Treasurer said. The Budget also includes funds to replace older buses with new accessible, air-conditioned buses. Transport for NSW stated it would work with industry over the coming months to finalise an implementation plan for the entire package of work. This will include further detail on how many double-decker buses will be used, the roll-out plan, replacement bus schedule, exact number of new trips, routes and when they will be implemented, it’s claimed. Thus this type of product is now big business and there are some key players lining up to snare a share of the market – and one of them is Perth-HQ, China-manufacturing Bus and Coach international (BCI). Celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2016, the company was founded in 1991 by Ron Nazzari. From being a small family run business for its first 10 years it has since spread into each state and territory of Australia, plus New Zealand, with a manufacturing base in Xiamen, China. Up against the likes of the latest Bustech CDi, Volgren with its new Optimus-based double-deck and a MAN Gemilang-bodied unit, BCI was serious about entering the NSW and potential greater Australian

markets with its stunning Citirider D doubledeck fully low-floor bus. Garnering a lion’s share of attention at the 2016 BusNSW Sydney Bus and Coach Show last October, its strength is that it’s not just a new product without solid runs on the board – it’s coming from a strong sales and operator-use history in neighbouring New Zealand. And while Aussie v Kiwi geography can play a part in how different road conditions affect driving buses and coaches, arguably double-deck city road conditions are similar between the two countries. As BCI state sales manager for Victoria, NSW and Tasmania, Cameron Millen, explained: “This is the first Citirider D we have in Australia, but we have plenty in NZ and the UK [known as the Ensignbus Enterprise there]. We sold our first unit recently, which will go into a NSW tour operator.” “We have about 40 in NZ with many more to come, mainly in Auckland running route services,” he added. So with so much competition, what is it about the Citirider D that sets it out from the pack? According to Millen, its light tare weight and flexibility in build spec. “We are building two- and three-axle units, with anything from 80 to 100 seats. We can also do school buses with seat belts, or even coaches. You have the option of choosing engine size and even brand of transmission. Basically, we offer many options to suit the customer’s needs. Plus there’s affordability and low cost of ownership. A lot of thought has gone into the design with regard to passenger comfort,which is noticeable with the head height being balanced in both the top and lower deck,” he said. And with turnaround times being crucial to winning new business, the folk at BCI say they can get these to buyers in just over three months. “With these we build to order, so normally about 14 weeks from order to on the road - depending on body slot availability at the time, of course,” Millen explained. And though this current version is running diesel, there are other emerging niches that BCI is seriously making a calculated leap into, with Millen saying the company is looking at alternative fuels for its doubledeckers, so we should “watch this space”... Known technically as the FBC6117BRZ1

1 A stylish unit. Good vision at the front, top glass

slightly raked for improved aerodynamics. 2 Lower deck is well designed and spaced out. 3 Got little hands? No worries! Big buttons

will help. 4 Clear visuals keep the driver well informed.

“...this type of product is now big business and there are some key players lining up to snare a share of the market.” www.truckandbus.net.au 023

Good ventilation at the rear. Clean and simple lines. 2 Alloy 8.25x22.5in wheels all around wrapped in 275/70R Goodyear Marathon LHS II +tyres.

“We have about 40 [Citirider D] in NZ with many more to come, mainly in Auckland running route services.” 2

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three-axle 12m-long double decker, it’s just over 4.2m tall and its 40x40 Australian Standard C350 grade SuperGal steel-frame chassis is just under 2.5m wide. The latter features some nifty stuff, such as automatic air drain fitted to all air tanks and an automatic lube system. A turbocharged Euro5-compliant Cummins ISL8.9 E5 340B diesel powers the Citirider D, with the in-line air-cooled six-cylinder pumping out 250kW@2100rpm and 1500Nm@1200-1400rpm. A choice of Allison T390R six-speed, ZF Ecolife 6 AP 1700 B, or Voith DIWA.5 D 864.5 transmissions can be sourced, with ZF 8098 power steering. Using a front Jinben IFS 1316JZ109000 axle with Knorr 7500kg-rated disc brakes, it’s matched to a rear ZF AV 132-90 axle with Knorr 12,000kg-rated disc brakes. A

Fangsheng deep-drop I-beam lazy axle with Knorr disc brakes as per the front forms the suspension. EBS, ARS and ESC brakes are from Wabco. Outside, initial impressions are impressive, if that makes any sense. There’s something clean and simple about the front end, yet classy and contemporary in its outlook. The front windscreens wrap nicely around the edges for unimpeded driver vision, the top screen slightly raked for improved aerodynamics. Below, the Hella headlights are enclosed in a funky silver casing, so it’s a slightly different look to the normal ‘reflective’ plastics and glass of traditional bus units. Along the flanks, it’s right-hand side is quite clean looking, with the left featuring front and mid-vehicle double-door access. Upon entering, passengers and drivers are

5 6

The name says it all. 4 Turbocharged and air-cooled Euro5 Cummins ISL 8.9E5 340B in-line 6-cyl - good for 250kW@2100rpm and 1500Nm@1200–1400rpm. 5 Middle Earth Hobbits could probably pole vault easily up in here. Tall basketballers - like on any double-decker - not so much. 6 It pays to advertise. 3

7 No ‘Eject’ button needed. And even if there

were it would likewise fall easily to hand. 8 Funky headlights - something a little different. 9 DDA compliance looks well sorted.

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BUS SPECS

greeted with a well-contoured and clearly designed driver’s area, or large wheelchair placement points given four fold-down seats immediately left, or a clever double-size folddown seat right in front. Access to the top deck is via a nicely squared-off staircase, with upper-level seating capacity indicator clearly visable to avoid disappointment – ‘cause don’t ya just hate that, yeah? Once at the top, there’s comfortable roof height for those at 5’8” -

5’10”, while monitors at the front and at the stairwell locations linked to the 12-camera Streamax monitoring system keeps everyone in the loop of what’s going on. Overall it’s a great product on paper and in the flesh – and it will need to be given the tough competition around right now in the double-decker scene. Yet if how it’s faring in NZ and the UK is any indication of its potential here, it will be interesting times indeed.

“...its light tare weight and flexibility in build spec sets it apart from the pack.” 3

MAKE: BCI MODEL: Citirider D integral double-decker ENGINE: Turbocharged and air-cooled Euro5 Cummins ISL 8.9E5 340B in-line 6-cyl, Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) technology with AdBlue. POWER – 250kW@2100rpm, TORQUE 1500Nm@1200–1400rpm TRANSMISSION: Allison T390R six-speed, ZF Ecolife 6 AP 1700 B, or Voith DIWA.5 D 864.5 SUSPENSION: Front Jinben IFS 1316JZ109000 axle, rear ZF AV 132-90 axle, Fangsheng deepdrop I-beam lazy axle. STEERING - ZF 8098 power steering. BRAKES: Front Knorr 7500kg-rated disc brakes, rear Knorr 12,000kg-rated disc brakes; Wabco EBS, ARS and ESC. WHEELS/TYRES: Alloy 8.25x22.5in all around; Tyres - 275/70Rx22.5in Goodyear Marathon LHS II + INTERIOR: Electric front windscreen blinds (1500mm Wide), ISRI air suspension driver’s seat with air lumbar support + 3-point restraint, R/H controls; aluminium handrails with powder coating; Streamax camera system, Coachsound PA system, 12V USB system on all seats. MICS.: Stainless steel tree catchers; Hubner wheel chair ramps, Doga wipers, Thermoking air conditioning, reversing camera, top-deck passenger counter.

1 One of 12 Streamax cameras to keep

an eye on things. 2 For ease of maintenance and repair. 3 Clean and contoured lines hallmark

the Citirider D’s dash area. Should be a hit with drivers.

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Operator

GAME, SET AND MATCH

For a bus operation that was started as an adjunct to its parent companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tennis centres, North Sydney Bus Charters has gone on to serve an ace - hitting plenty of winners along the way to become a leading player in the Sydney bus charter market. Barry Flanagan reports.

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t’s a cut-throat world out there in the bus charter business and you have to be doing something right if you can make it in the tough Sydney market. In the case of North Sydney Bus and Coach Charters (NSBC), doing something right is clearly a factor in the rapid growth and rise to prominence of this ‘overnight’ success of the bus industry. However, like all overnight successes the company has actually taken 15 years to achieve this, to be precise. Today NSBC operates one of Australia’s

largest fleets of Yutong buses and has hit on a formula that has ensured it is one of the most respected independents in the business. When Coach & Bus magazine caught up with NSBC’s managing director Greg Roberts he was high in his praise for the part Yutong has played in the success of the company, particularly in the past few years. NSBC now has 58 Yutongs on the fleet and is very keen on what the Chinese-built conveyances deliver.

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;...has hit on a formula that has ensured it is one of the most respected independents in the business.â&#x20AC;?

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“When Chinese buses burst onto the local scene we looked at what was available and it was Yutong’s overall package that was the most attractive, primarily because the local operation was factory owed and not a separate distributor,” said Roberts. “The overall package was the best one in our view. The Cummins engine, Allison automatic, Wabco brakes, and the fact the local operation was factory owned - all of that combined with the economical pricing convinced us, and we have not looked back,” he added. The NSBC kicked off in 2002 in the wake of that great end of Millennium party that was the Sydney Olympics. The economy was booming and there was plenty of work around. The company originally started to provide transport to support the company founder Scott Riley’s interests in tennis centres. Riley, a professional tennis coach and former tennis pro, saw the transport operation as a way of vertically integrating the business

and it was the seed that gave birth to the operation. Since then Riley and Roberts have successfully grown the company to become a major player in the Sydney bus and coach charter market. Today the NSBC Group operates a fleet of more than 75 vehicles with more planned for delivery and also has an impressive portfolio of tennis centres, motels, golf courses and properties that it manages and operates. In June 2015 the company expanded its bus interests with the opening of a new head office and depot facility at Artarmon, on Sydney’s Lower North Shore. The depot is 10 minutes from the Sydney CBD and 20 minutes from Sydney Airport, close to the Lane Cove Tunnel, the Pacific Highway and the M2 motorway to the city’s North West, so it means NSBC is well positioned to service all of Sydney. Additionally, the company also has satellite depots at North Ryde, as well as on the Northern Beaches and at Sydney Olympic Park to ensure it can cover charter

demands at critical times. The core business these days for NSBC is the schools market, particularly larger private schools with which the company has a number of agreements for student transport, both to and from the schools and for such things as student excursions and sports event transport. This is where the company saw significant growth and expansion in recent times over the past four years and which led NSBC to add Yutong to the fleet. As Roberts explained: “At the time we were looking to expand a number of new brands had come onto the market and we were clearly looking to take the best and most economic route as we added vehicles to our fleet.” “This meant we looked closely at the Chinese brands because of the price advantage they offered. Yutong stood out to us because it had a factory-owned operation in Australia, had the right mix of price and engineering quality, and used both Cummins engines and Allison transmissions.”

1 The Cummins and Allison are perfectly

matched, in terms of ratios, and it just makes it easy for the drivers, according to NSBC. 2 The NSBC Yutongs are an increasingly common sight on Sydney streets. 3 The Group operates a fleet of more than 75 vehicles - with more planned.

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ALL BASES COVERED North Sydney Bus Charters prides itself in providing a professional service combined with quality vehicles at a competitive affordable price, the company states. It has a range of buses from mini-bus hire to 68-seat belted coaches. It offers privatised transportation for local charters within Sydney and its surrounds or extended charters within Australia. Its range of charter services include: school camps, swim programmes, outings and excursions; corporate events; daily shuttle services; general charters; snow charters; day trips; social outings; weddings and other special occasion hotel shuttles.

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“We needed the factory back-up and the peace of mind that comes from known suppliers like Cummins and Allison and that has certainly proved to be the right formula, with excellent back-up and technical support,” he added. Since purchasing the first Yutong in 2013 NSBC has added 58 of the Chinese-built machines to its fleet, enabling it to meet that ramped up demand from the private schools sector. Part of the reason the company looked to Yutong was the ready availability of a good automatic transmission. Like any company in the transport game these days one of the biggest challenges is finding drivers who can not only drive but use a manual gearbox. The quality and efficiency provided by automatics like the Allison means that NSBC can draw from a wider pool of drivers, but also gain better efficiency in terms of fuel consumption, repairs, maintenance and also deliver better passenger comfort. “There is nothing worse for passenger

comfort and confidence than a driver grinding gears and jerking down the road and the automatic eliminates that not to mention also delivering outstanding improvements in fuel economy. “They might not be able to find third in a manual, but they can always find D in the automatic! “Its counter intuitive in some ways because we were always led to believe autos used more fuel, but since we started adding Yutongs with automatic transmissions and Cummins engines we have had a 25 per cent reduction in fuel consumption, which is a significant improvement in anybody’s language and certainly makes a huge difference on the bottom line,” Roberts added. “Couple that to the reduction in driveline repairs and maintenance that has come about and we are a long way in front. We would have had to change the clutches probably twice in three years in manual buses, but the automatics eliminate that huge cost and time loss; we have not had to touch the Allisons so

far,” he explained. “The Cummins and Allison are perfectly matched ratio wise and it just makes it easy for the drivers; there is no over-revving, no wasted gear changes, every thing is smooth and easy,” he said. When the company first started with an old Mercedes-Benz manual bus it was able to compete and get things moving, but in an increasingly competitive market it needed new buses not only to satisfy customer demands for fresh, safe and comfortable buses but also to ensure good economy. “We had to come up with a fleet upgrade that would satisfy our customers, but also work for the company financially,” said Roberts. “Yutong was the stand-out because of

the fact we could deal directly with the factory operation and not an importer. Cost was definitely a factor, but it was the cost combined with quality engineering and support that won us over and that has certainly proven to be the right decision,” he said. “We have hardly had a problem in the past three years, but if we have it has been fixed quickly and without fuss - often the problem has been a driver, not the equipment, and could be fixed with some added training, but any technical issues are rectified in no time by Yutong, Cummins or by Daltrans - the Allison dealer - who are right on the ball,” Roberts added. Roberts has spent a lifetime in the bus industry and in the past 13 years running

NSBC he has been steering the company through its rapid growth and ensuring its long-term viability. “I have a background in the bus market, I have been here since the inception and it’s been great steering the operation as we grew the company. There have been challenges, sure, but we’ve made the right decisions equipment wise and that has meant we have been able to grow without too many headaches - that has been the key really,” Roberts explained. The challenge of moving people around our biggest metropolis is not getting any easier, but NSBC is up for the challenge. It looks forward to even more growth and expansion in the next few years and reckons it is set to volley that winner down the base line.

“...tennis coach and former tennis pro Riley saw the transport operation as a way of vertically integrating the business; it was the seed that gave birth to the operation.” 2

1 Busy at work in the hustle

and bustle of the city.

2 Under the waiting arms of the

beautiful ol’ ‘coat hanger’.

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In Depth

BOOGIE NIGHTS

In any city in the world, if you are going to have a big night out on the town in a ‘party bus’ then you’ve ‘got to go large’, as they say. And these latest Scanias helping lighten up the mood on nights out in Thailand do just that, but always with safety in mind, says the operator. Coach & Bus editor Fabian Cotter reports.

h, don’t get all coy and act like you don’t understand the concept of a ‘party bus’, nor pretend you wouldn’t want to be on one when you see them – in all manner of sizes, shapes, colour themes and seating capacities – doing their thing in a range of cities worldwide. It makes sense to have someone else do all the driving and worrying about parking and traffic for you, all the while partying on and have a blast with your mates and relatives. Yet part of that is knowing safety is key in terms of the driver’s skill, patience and the actual bus itself. And that’s because not all operators will be able to – or choose to – invest appropriately into their business, often looking to save money on maintenance or the actual cost of the vehicle. One particular company in Thailand has plumped for some late-model Scania coaches that have now been decked out in all the relevant partying paraphernalia – because you just can’t have enough speakers and neon lights on your bus, right?

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With having fun being an important aspect of Thai life, especially in terms of the vital tourism trade, to cater for the more mobile revellers a growing number of “shing-shub tours” – party and karaoke buses – are plying the Thai roads. Based in Saraburi, 250 kilometres north-east of Bangkok, Prasert Kungnern and his “family” – as he calls the dedicated employees – have their headquarters. Out of respect for the recently deceased King Bhumibol Adulyadej, their fleet of extravagant party buses will keep a low profile for some months while being maintained. High-quality buses with a good record when it comes to driveability and safety is essential, when running party bus business, Prasert Kungnern says. Featuring large leather sofas, massive sound systems, spectacular lighting, LCD TVs, bars, bathrooms and much more, these rolling nightclubs can be ‘connected’ with each other to allow for up to 500 guests to simultaneously enjoy the same show, while being on the move in

an eye-and ear-catching convoy of up to 10 buses. “Some of these buses are equipped with sound and lighting systems for one million baht (equivalent to €20,000)”, said Kungnern. “This is a new, more modern and safe version of the traditional Thai party and karaoke buses. Our customers can rent them for any occasion. It could be anything from teenagers who prefer karaoke and a big wild party to older people who want folk songs and a more traditional celebration. What unites them all is a wish to have fun, relax and party. Especially during the New Year and spring. Many of our customers are private companies and governmental units who regularly entertain their employees,” explained Kungnern. Describing his business, he carefully points out security is his very first concern. The Thai party bus industry has been hit by several serious accidents, particularly when driving during heavy rain. “I believe it´s essential in this business to have high-quality

buses with a good record when it comes to driveability and safety. Thanks to excellent driver support systems in these Scania buses, our drivers only need short training before they are ready to go. And they say the suspension is outstanding in Scania buses.” The party and karaoke buses are a well-known sight on Thailand’s roads, especially during the New Year and other holidays. In Thailand, bus operators are moving to become more professional in their approach to running their business. While cash flow is still one of the main concerns, total cost of ownership is more and more important. “The buses from Scania are easy to service and maintain, and the fuel efficiency is excellent, which of course appeal to me. We save money by driving Scania and the total cost for our operations are better. I trust these buses can be used for a much longer time than the other brands also used in the party bus industry. So it´s worth the investment for me,” Kungnern concluded.

“...these rolling nightclubs can be ‘connected’ with each other to allow for up to 500 guests to simultaneously enjoy the same show.” You can’t really miss this bad boy out on the road at night. But maybe keep it away from airports so planes don’t get distracted when landing.

1 A wall of neon. You gotta love it. 2 Prasert Kungnern and his “family”of

dedicated employees. 3 So many speakers you’d have to be a pretty

brave rooster to ask to ‘pump up the jam!’

4 And these things can travel as a ‘connected’

convoy. Wicked, man!

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Event

Photography: Fabian Cotter

DRIVE IT LIKE YOU DIDNâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;T STEAL IT! Attracting a field of combatants vying for the coveted title of best bus driver, the recent biennial Scania Driver Competitions 2016 in Melbourne saw some top bus and coach experts tough it out during an intense day of skills and knowledge testing. Pushing the boundaries of industry excellence, the event brought out their best of the best. Coach and Bus Editor Fabian Cotter reports.

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2 1 Scania organisers’ final

briefing before the day starts. 2 Entrants racking their brains

for the tough theory part. 3 The Plank looks easy to drive

a wheel over - from afar. Up close? Nup! 4 Scania Australia national manager - Bus, Julian Gurney, ensured measurements were accurate and fair.

t’s a lot harder than it looks. A lot harder. We seem to often take for granted the level of skills bus and coach drivers display every day to get passengers safely to their destinations and on time - and that thin edge of the wedge was sharpened tenfold at the 2016 Scania Driver Competitions, held at Ladbrokes Park Sandown Racecource, late October. There for select truck drivers on the Thursday prior and bus drivers on the Friday were a series of intense driving-skill tests in the massive car park and surrounding areas, each

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with an increasing difficulty level needing to be matched and succeeded for successful completion – but in truth it’s pretty full on from the get-go. There’s just no room for error and these tests have been designed by the Scania Australia experts to ensure coming unstuck is easier to achieve than buying milk and bread at the local corner store. Chocolate milk, even! Named with deceptively simple-sounding descriptions, tasks such as Bus Stop, The Hole, Slalom, The Plank, Bullseye, The Wall and Oil Barrels, these would put drivers to the test both mentally and physically, as they

needed patience, precision and solid lateral thinking to solve these ‘puzzles’ quickly and effectively. And in action on the day it was kind of like watching those professional ‘Rubic’s Cube’ events, where people just look at it for a minute and then amazingly get all the coloured sides matching in, like, 12 seconds. Well, some did. And then some didn’t, but that is the nature of the Scania Driver Competitions. Coupled with a multiple choice test and media interview component, the Competition is quite encompassing, ensuring whomever is

crowned the best bus driver is truly reflective of the level of excellence aspired to by the greater industry. By the end of the day, a short-list of three drivers made it for the official winner’s announcement ceremony at the BIC Conference to be held November 8 in Perth. The three selected were: Damien Christensen, from Townsville, Queensland, who works for Greyhound Australia – eventual 2016 Scania Bus Driver of the Year winner; second was Leah Hahn from Mees Bus Lines in Victoria, and Tim Krekt from Sunstate Charters third.

It might look like the easiest test, but the Bus Stop needed accuracy and precision.

“...designed by the Scania Australia experts to ensure coming unstuck is easier to achieve than buying milk and bread at the local store.”

Like Van Halen famously sang in the ‘80s, ‘You might as well jump. Go ahead and jump!’ And so that’s just what the 2016 Scania Driver Comp’s 11 finalists did. Nice one! [Photo: Charlie Suriano]

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BIGGER AND BETTER The Scania Driver Competitions were held in Australia for the 6th time for truck drivers and 3rd time for bus drivers in 2016. Scania Australia has been running these driver competitions since 2007 with the aim of raising the profile of professional drivers and the road transport industry among the general public. In 2016, prizes worth thousands of dollars were awarded to the winning truck and bus drivers who successfully navigate the on-line challenger round, and then graduate to the national final, held in Melbourne at the end of October. In 2014 more than 100,000 drivers from more than 40 countries around the world participated in the Scania Driver Competitions. Scania customers and drivers are urged to enter the 2018 Scania Driver Competitions, to demonstrate what they know, or to find out what they could improve. At the very least, knowledge will be tested, awareness of issues will be raised, and a focus on safety and total operating economy will be enhanced. All drivers with an MC licence (or HR licence for bus and coach drivers) – whether they own or drive a Scania or any other type of heavy commercial vehicle – are welcome to enter via www.scania. com.au/competitions

“This unique competition puts the spotlight on safe, skilful and efficient driving, underscoring the high levels of professionalism...” They headed a group of closely matched rivals, all of whom performed well in a varied day of tests of skills and knowledge. This was the third time Australia has hosted a version of Scania’s long-running global challenge to find the country’s best bus/coach driver. All finalists were challenged to undertake seven manoeuvring activities behind the wheel of a Scania K 310 UB 4x2 bus with a Volgren Optimus body. Identical vehicles were used for a road drive, while each of the finalists faced a 30-question road rule test and a simulated media interview to gauge their views on the passenger transport industry. “Scania put 11 talented finalists through a tough series of tests on the road and behind a desk in order to determine who would win the coveted Champion Driver status,” said Ron

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Szulc, Brand and Communication manager for Scania Australia. “This unique competition puts the spotlight on safe, skilful and efficient driving, underscoring the high levels of professionalism among today’s bus and coach drivers. It is interesting that all three of the top finishers [were] coach drivers. “Day-to-day, Australia’s bus and coach drivers are largely unappreciated for the hard work they do against tough timetables, battling congested roads and all manner of other road users,” Szulc said. “The competition highlights driving skills that contribute to reducing driver stress and improving the customer experience. “By putting these finalists to the test we expose their high levels of ability, but also importantly give them a chance to meet with other like-minded, passionate and committed

It was all about getting the right angle at entry before turning, apparently. But easier said than done. 2 After driving tests and a theory test, finalists had to face perhaps their biggest judge: the media! 1

Â&#x2013; Bullseye sounds like a dart game, but here itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s really hard for drivers to see the board.

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bus and coach drivers who can impact the industry with their professionalism, courtesy and leadership. “As a company, we put a lot of effort into supporting drivers and enhancing their standing within their communities locally and globally via the Scania Driver Competitions. We congratulate not only the winners but all the finalists for their efforts today and everyday.” Second place-getter Hahn said at the time: “It’s been a great day, the best experience. I have got to do things I haven’t done before in a bus. I couldn’t believe that I have finished in the top three. It’s the best feeling. I’m doing it

for women bus drivers (everywhere). It is an amazing achievement to have made it here. I am over the moon. Eventual third-place-getter Krekt said: “It’s been a fantastic day, I can’t believe we are sitting here now. We came as competitors but we are leaving as friends.” Winner Christensen said: “I was a little nervous at first, but it has been a really good day and I have learned a lot. It is a great way to bring recognition to people of the industry. Krekt and Hahn stated the toughest test was aiming their test bus through two barrels they had set as close together as possible,

while Christensen said the slalom test was his toughest challenge. “I felt really good in the bus. It felt like second nature,” 32-year-old Hahn said of the unfamiliar environment of a route bus, compared with her usual coach. “Driving the Scania was like driving a car, it was so smooth and comfortable,” she said. “This competition is a good way to bring young blood into the industry. I am the youngest coach driver where I work,” she said. “If the tool for the job is right then the job is half done,” Krekt said of the Scania bus. Christensen – who is the North Queensland

The massive Sandown car park became the scene of hard-fought bus competition.

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Driver Supervisor of Greyhound Australia based in Townsville - said he started driving buses and coaches at 24. “In 1996 I started as a bus-washer,” he explained. “I went into the cooking industry then decided after a while I had had enough of that and returned to driving coaches and that’s where I am now. The best thing about my job is there’s something different everyday,” he said. Krekt started aged 23, entering the industry in his native Holland when studying international tour management. He worked as a dishwasher to help pay for his studies and

his boss offered to pay for his coach licence training as they needed drivers. When he migrated to Australia he saw it as a great way to see the country. “The best thing about my job is the freedom it brings,” he said. Hahn started in the bus game aged 30, after previously driving trucks for a living. She said: “I got sick of driving trucks, the hours weren’t great and I wanted a change. You get to see more, meet all sorts of people, and that was the change I wanted. I went from driving by myself all day to driving with a bunch of people I can talk to. The best thing about my job is its diversity.”

1 Everything was double and triple

checked. 2 Many said ‘The Barrels’ was the

toughest test. 3 Potholes you want to avoid. This one

you had to find. Not easy. 4 After a tough day, finalists prepare

for the short-list announcement. 5 Ron Szulc, Brand and Communication

manager for Scania Australia, congratulates the top three. 6 ... and they’re on their way to Perth to find out who wins.

“...finalists were challenged to undertake seven manoeuvring activities behind the wheel of a Scania K 310 UB 4x2 bus with a Volgren Optimus body.”

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Event

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IAA 2016, GERMANY

Nearly a quarter of a million visitors checked out one of the largest commercial vehicles shows around the world, the biennial IAA 2016 event in Hannover, Germany, last September. The latest and greatest trends and titbits were on global display, giving a snapshot of the marketâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s future that certainly didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t disappoint. Coach & Bus editor Fabian Cotter reports.

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EGATRENDS. It’s kind of catchy, isn’t it? Though it sounds like something out of a Hollywood Transformers movie, it’s innuendo is much more than some modern laser-beam-shooting Tin Man-like character - it’s capital equipment innovation you cannot simply ignore. And when it comes to commercial vehicles – from buses, coaches, vans, trucks and the lot – the IAA Commercial Vehicles Show gives discerning punters often their first real look at things that shape where – and why – our industry is headed. “IAA has exceeded our expectations. [The] world’s leading trade show [is] even more international – more visitors despite fewer days – 332 world premieres – digitisation, electric

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mobility and urban logistics are megatrends,” explained Matthias Wissmann, president of the German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA), at the final IAA press conference. Anointed with the theme “Driven by Ideas”, transport, logistics and mobility aspects of the industry were on full display and with so many world premieres (and over 100 European premieres) the IAA is even more the place to be for key decision-makers from around the world. According to Wissmann, three major topics have dominated this IAA: electric mobility, digitisation and urban logistics. He explained: “Electric mobility - practically all the manufacturers of city buses and vans have models with electric and hybrid drive in their portfolios. Some of these vehicles are already

on the roads, and many more will appear in the near future. This means that in towns and cities more and more zero emissions mobility will be possible, and buses and vans will be as quiet as a whisper. In the medium term this will also apply to heavy trucks in local distribution. This will bring a new quality of life to our urban spaces. “Digitisation - this is the strongest and most comprehensive driver of innovation. Connectivity and automation in commercial vehicles go far beyond the assistance systems we have seen to date.” He cited the example of trucks that are electronically networked and digitally connected on freeways and other longdistance roads (‘platooning) that can markedly

GERMANY SIGNS POSITIVE With many considering the Germany market a good indicator of possible commercial vehicle trends worldwide, experts claim the van market is heading for all-time high and buses showing double-digit growth. Last September saw another sharp rise in the number of commercial vehicles newly registered in Germany. The market recorded year-on-year growth of 5 per cent to 28,700 units. New registrations of buses and trailers showed a double-digit increase. From January to September 2016, the market totalled 264,800 units sold – 11 per cent more than during the same period last year. In September, growth again occurred in all commercial vehicle segments. Sales of heavy commercial vehicles over 6 tonnes rose by 5 per cent to 7600 vehicles. The large van segment up to

6 tonnes also added 5 per cent, which took it to 20,700 new registrations. Furthermore, 420 new buses were registered last month – a rise of 14 per cent. Matthias Wissmann, president of the German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA), said: “The demand for new trucks, buses and trailers in Germany remains keen. The commercial vehicle market continues to benefit from the healthy state of the domestic economy. In addition, the successful IAA Commercial Vehicles [show], with its many world premieres, is obviously also encouraging both manufacturers and customers.” With the especially strong German fourth quarter last year, it will be interesting to see how the market fared in the remaining months of 2016.

1 The night-time dinner functions at

IAA are massive. 2 Charging is easy. And so it should be. 3 VW’s latest helped represent the

strong van community. 4 Inside the Solaris Urbino 12, crowned

International Bus of the Year 2017.

reduce their fuel consumption and their CO2 emissions. Additionally, platooning is said to enhance safety as there is no “moment of shock” any more and the connected electronic systems react immediately. “For long-distance truck drivers connectivity has the added advantage that it enables them to ‘digitally reserve’ a free parking space,” he said. And, finally, there’s the ‘urban logistics’. “Digitisation offers a quantum leap forward in towns and cities: more safety, greater efficiency and better quality of life. All-round cameras and sensors on the vehicles are deployed so that the “blind spot” and the associated dangers will become a thing of the past. Goods will be supplied on demand, individually and on time. For towns and cities this is still a vision, but it

is already conceivable for destinations in rural areas or in the mountains: the van is supported by delivery drones that ‘swarm out’ and fly to the relevant door. Here at the IAA we have demonstrated this to the visitors live in front of Hall 19,” Wissmann explained. “These three megatrends will have full impact in urban areas in particular. For the people there that will mean urban mobility and logistics will benefit from enhanced efficiency, safety and comfort.” Organisers say this year’s IAA visitors have been able to immerse themselves in this new world of mobility and logistics and experience it directly. “That, too, is part of the fascination of this IAA, and we are developing it into more of

an event rather than just a presence here,” Wissmann said. “The IAA is the only place where the whole value-creation chain for commercial vehicles can be seen. That sets us apart from all other automotive trade shows. The suppliers are very well represented: half of the 2013 exhibitors are in this manufacturer group. They account for an even larger proportion of the IAA’s world premieres: 72 per cent (239) of the 332 world premieres are from supply companies, most prominently from those involved in electric mobility and digitisation. The suppliers also account for a similar share of the European premieres (71 per cent).” Now while some people still consider the IAA a truck-dominated show, our mob had

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1 Outside the venue. 2 Kids checking out the

latest Neoplan Skyliner. 3 Old-school Merc

looked very cool. 4 Hands on with the

latest technology.

“With 27 specialist events totalling around 4400 participants, IAA had some awesome creative synergy going on.” 2

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a particularly strong representation this year, with particular note with four of the five candidates for the prestigious “Bus of the Year” award having an electric drive (eventually won by the Solaris Urbino 12, see page 56). A trend towards a more electrified sector? It certainly looks like it. IAA aficionados were elated with how more ‘international’ the event has become, citing increased stats of foreign exhibitors at 61 per cent (59 per cent in 2014) and the number of exhibiting countries up to 52 (45 in 2014). On that note, 229 exhibitors represented China, 145 Italy, 121 the Netherlands, 92 from Turkey and 85 from France, for the top five nations there. Over a third of all exhibitors came from Europe (excluding Germany), and one fifth came from Asia. This year’s show ran for nine days; one less than 2014, so that affects visitor-number comparisons, but still there was trucks-loads – pardon the pun – that came through the doors. A record 245,000 visitors! It’s touted as a money saver for key industry decision makers not having to make multiple trips around the world per year to tie up business deals. And organisers were quick to point out that some exhibitors rang a bell at their stand every time a purchasing agreement was concluded, often chiming several times in an hour. With 27 specialist events totalling around 4400 participants, the 66th IAA had some awesome creative synergy going on, a highlight being the new symposia at the New Mobility World logistics. Here, the aptly named Dronemaster Logistics and ‘Lab 16 – Startups meet Industry’ sections showed the latest cutting-edge developments with Lab 16, in particular, being a cool new event format where startups and the industry meet to hatch smart new ideas. The Lab had a 24hour ‘hackathon’, in which students worked under intense pressure to come up with creative IT solutions for a German commercial vehicle manufacturer. Great stuff! The many walking tours for VIPs – including European Commissioner Guenther Oettinger, Federal Transport Minister Alexander Dobrindt, and members of the European Parliament and the German Bundestag – revealed huge interest in electric mobility and connectivity. Plus the many test drives in both electric and conventional vehicles were also a hit. Following the 67th IAA Cars in Frankfurt am Main from September 14 to 24, 2017, in 2018 the 67th IAA Commercial Vehicles show will again return to Hannover, beginning September 27 to October 4. If you’ve never been it might just be time to stick it into the diary!

5 Wabco goes all VR on us. 6 MAN Lion’s City CNG gets

examined by the experts. 7 MAN van makes its debut. 8 Up so close things could get

personal. 9 The ZF ‘clear’ display was

truly impressive.

We Want

BACK IN They are one of the world’s ‘winningest’ sports teams in history and ferocious on a Rugby field – even on their bad days ... which kind of don’t exist. Yet the World Champion All Blacks arguably has a humble soft side to boot. Tied in with an Iveco sponsorship, collectively they’ve put their names to another good cause for charity. Coach & Bus editor Fabian Cotter reports.

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BLACK

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he overlap of sports sponsorship and sports marketing has been evolving for more than 100 years and the ability to stick corporate brands right into the faces of the global masses perhaps really kicked in for Olympic events since the early 1980s. To date, seemingly no sport can function without it, from grass-roots community team events to major Worlds Cups of a raft of disciplines. And commercial vehicles as a whole has played an integral part of some of the best. When it comes to world rugby, the New Zealand All Blacks have crafted a very special niche of major winning streaks and making venues like Eden Park a hoodoo for umpteen rivals for years. One side more in particular. But let’s not even go there... Global vehicle giant Iveco has enjoyed a solid sponsorship relationship with the All Blacks team for some years now and

has provided key trucks, buses and vans as part of the sporting giant’s support and transport infrastructure. And for the recent 2016 rugby ‘Spring Tour’ or ‘Northern Tour’ (depending on which side of the equator and which bit of Australasia you are from) Iveco supplied the side and its management team two of its award-winning Magelys coaches – 2016 International Coach of the Year – and four Daily Minibus H-Matics, named 2015 International Van of the Year. Yet not only did the All Blacks get reliable, safe and comfortable transport, nor Iveco just get great media exposure and public relations mileage from the association, but the very worthwhile charity UNICEF got the proceeds from the sales of such vehicles via the www.charitystars.com website, recently. Charity Stars is said to be the first charity fund-raising platform that channels online auction proceeds towards solidarity

campaigns. The funds raised through the auctions will be donated to UNICEF, the United Nations Children’s Fund, which seeks to protect and promote children’s rights across the world and contributes to improving their standard of living. At the time of writing, the auctions had just concluded and amassed 355,500 euros (225,000 euros from bidder ‘massimalano’ of Italy for the Magelys coach and 130,500 euros from French bidder ‘gaitler’ for the New Stralis XP Emotional truck). These one-of-a-kind vehicles, distinctive in unique All Black livery and signed by the team, certainly look amazing and could well end up as collectors items one day. Very big and expensive ones, at that. In terms of the rugby clashes themselves, the three European fixtures for the New Zealand squad were test matches: 12 November at Stadio Olimpico in Rome, 19

“These one-of-a-kind vehicles, distinctive in unique All Black livery and signed by the team, certainly look amazing.” 052 www.truckandbus.net.au

November at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin and 26 November at the Stade de France in Paris. There was an earlier match on November 6 to start the series effectively in Chicago, USA, against Ireland, but with the latter bucking tradition and defeating the All Blacks 40-29, it would probably only be Irish – or Australian - media making mention of that fact. And with the All Blacks exacting revenge 21-9 on Irish home soil, it seems back to business for the Kiwi machine. Prior to the contest, Iveco Brand president Pierre Lahutte commented: “Iveco and the All Blacks are teaming up once again for a European tour and, this time, also for a gesture of great solidarity in support of UNICEF’s work. We are extremely proud that our own champions, the New Stralis TCO2 Champion and the Magelys, Coach of the Year 2016, will bear the team colours of Iveco and the All Blacks in support of this generous

action.” When the Iveco Magelys was named International Coach of the Year 2016, organisers declared: “The jury particularly commended the Magelys in its latest Euro6 version, which boasts numerous innovative features that go far beyond the simple “silver smile” that now adorns all the front grilles of the Iveco Bus range. The manufacturer has focused considerable effort on optimising the cost-effectiveness of the vehicle, and the jury noted all of the improvements that combine to actively reduce the total cost of ownership (TCO) for operators”. The Magelys is a tourist coach with an exclusive design, available in 12.2m and 12.8m lengths and three versions: Line, Pro and Lounge, said to cover the many needs and requirements expressed by passenger transport companies. Iveco states as proof of its versatility, the

vehicle presented to the jury at the actual Coach Euro Test was equipped with all the facilities recommended for use on new routes at a regional, national and European level. These have emerged in the wake of the liberalisation of the sector Germany, and now in France, since the announcement of the Macron law. The winner of the International Coach of the Year 2016 trophy was a Magelys Pro, equipped with the following: wheelchair lift with dedicated access door and space for a passenger with reduced mobility, removable table, 46 Kiel leather seats, central toilet, three retractable LCD screens, Wi-Fi connection, 220V and USB sockets, GPS and front camera. In terms of active and passive safety the Magelys boasts a robust, self-supporting structure that is hardened in a ‘cataphoretic’ coating to ensure long-lasting protection

2 1 If you are going to do long distances, you

want to be driving in comfort and style. 2 The world-famous All Blacks, doing their

thing. Or is that ‘thung’? 3 The fundraising for UNICEF was a hit!

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“Magelys is a tourist coach with an exclusive design, available in 12.2m and 12.8m lengths and three versions: Line, Pro and Lounge.” 2

BUS SPECS

The Iveco ‘silver smile’ throws out even better against the black of the All Blacks livery.

054 www.truckandbus.net.au

against corrosion. It is designed to pass the international regulation R66/01 roll-over test, which ensures passengers receive maximum protection if the vehicle overturns; the standards required to pass this test have not traditionally been met by double-decker coaches. The Magelys is also equipped with the latest technological innovations such as the LDWS (Lane Departure Warning System) and AEBS (Advanced Emergency Braking System) automatic braking. Sylvain Blaise, head of Iveco Bus, at the time commented: “We are proud that the Magelys was victorious following a series of intensive tests, earning the coveted title of ‘International Coach of the Year 2016’, and seeing off some serious competition. This is a strong signal to the entire industry and to operators alike, clearly indicating that our vehicle has all the qualities required for a great European career”.

1 Not enough room to do a Haka in there,

but ... actually, maybe there is? 2 Both the Magelys coach and Stralis XP

Emotional truck come with great-feel steering wheels. 3 All that’s needed here is the rightsized Monopoly board game.

MAKE: Iveco MODEL: Magelys Pro ENGINE: Cursor 9 8.7-litre, in-line six-cylinder, Euro6 High Performance; variable-geometry turbocharger, with Hi-SCR after treatment system; POWER – 294kW (400hp)@1600rpm, TORQUE 1700Nm@1250rpm TRANSMISSON: ZF 6S 1911 (with Intarder retarder), optional ZF 12 AS 2001 with Eco Switch, or ZF 6S 1910 (with Telma) SUSPENSION: Fully pneumatic with set up control, Front - 2x bellows , 2x shock absorbers, 1x 1 antiroll bar; Rear – 4x bellows, 4x shock absorbers, 4x retaining drawbars, 1x anti-roll bar. AXLES: Front – independent, Worm-type ZF 8098 with integrated power steering; Rear - U17X MERITOR axle BRAKES: Advanced Emergency Braking System; ESP; EBS WHEELS/TYRES: Steel, aluminium rims optional; Tyres - 295/80 R22.5 BODY: Available in 12.20m and 12.80m length; unique roof construction with large glass roof arches INTERIOR: LED lighting; aisle roof windows; 46 Kiel leather seats; central toilet; 3x retractable LCD screens, Wi-Fi connection, 220V and USB sockets; integrated acclimatisation; convector heating; radar for rear move; hostess seat and microphone, lateral driver console, leather-look steering wheel MISC.: Wheelchair lift with dedicated access door; removable table; GPS and front camera;Lane Departure Warning System; Adaptive Cruise Control; 640L diesel tank and 80L urea tanks

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We Want

POLE POSITION

Polish bus manufacturer Solaris has scooped the coveted 2017 Bus of the Year Award with its electric-powered Urbino 12 city bus at the recent IAA Commercial Vehicles Fair in Hannover, Germany. Not only is it the first electric bus to win such an award, no other entrant was diesel powered. A one-off anomaly or a sign of the times and a snapshot of the future? Coach & Bus editor Fabian Cotter reports.

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NTI-MICROBIAL COPPER. Wallop! And no, it has nothing to do with some irate police officer walking around with lint-free gloves on, a feather-duster at their side and a can of Glen 20 ready to launch into action. Such is the detail that’s gone into the Bus of the Year 2017-winning Solaris Urbino 12 that boundaries have been pushed and a whole new way of thinking about the commuter journey has earned it such a prestigious title. Copper handrails to help reduce or kill nasty germs? You betcha (wash your hands

with soap and water after using public toilets, please! It’s that simple)! Whilst the Urbino is not available in Australasia at this point, to have an electric bus win such an award needs to be congratulated. And while many may read into the result and the competition field as a slight on the latest diesel technology, perhaps it’s more a celebration of such ‘newer technology’ reaching viable and efficient maturity. This year’s competition for Bus of the Year – run since 1989 and occurring on alternate

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years to the Coach of the Year award - was held in the Belgian capital of Brussels. Entrants competing for the ultimate prize this year included Ebusco, Irizar, Van Hool, Solaris and Mercedes-Benz. The first four producers entered electric buses, while Mercedes-Benz interestingly chose a natural gas (CNG)-fuelled vehicle. Judges from 20 European countries assessed each vehicle’s strengths and weaknesses after rigorous examination and testing, finding the new Solaris Urbino 12 electric, equipped with 240kWh batteries, too good to refuse. It is the first title of this kind awarded to a Polish manufacturer. As Solaris explains, two charging systems have been installed in the bus: one using a pantograph, for charging during stopovers at bus stops, the other one using a plugin for charging in the bus depot. During the competition in Brussels the batterypowered Solaris was charged by way of a new-generation charger with a power output of 80kW, designed and produced

by Ekoenergetyka-Polska. The plug-in mobile charger was connected to a post with a pantograph specially devised for this purpose. Thanks to this solution the driving range of the electric Urbino is practically unlimited, the company claims. The set has been divided into six separate packs of 40kWh each. In terms of layout, 160kWh are located at the rear of the vehicle while the rest is mounted on the roof, over the first axle. In terms of model history, Solaris debuted the Urbino idea to the world fittingly two years earlier at the 2014 IAA Commercial Vehicles exhibition, touted as a completely new engineering design that was “lighter and more robust” than its predecessor. Featuring the same rigidity and noncorrosive materials as previously used, weight-saving would be the new Urbino’s hallmark. And its “new concept of placing and shaping horizontal profiles” also helped reduce weight – and thus targeted lower fuel consumption – for diesel models.

“Redesigned stronger connections between vertical and horizontal steel profiles have been used. The flooring uses a combination of stainless steel sheets and plywood. The former is an integral part of the chassis and reinforces the bodyframe, while also providing strong protection against inclement weather. The bodyframe was also prepared for the placement of compressed air tanks at the front of the bus,” according to the company. “The interior will be free of vibrations, while the bus is quieter than its predecessors. At a noise level of 74.8 dBA it remains well below international standards (including the European limit of 80 dBA and the more stringent 77 dBA level in Germany). Skin-on-skin assembly ensures efficient production flows as well as highly distinguished aesthetics”. Serviceability for operators was crucial to the new design, with screwed body panelling allowing quick replacement and repair in case of damage and hatches now

“...perhaps it’s more a celebration of such ‘newer technology’ reaching viable and efficient maturity.”

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HEY, GOOD LOOKER! It’s technically not the first accolades the Urbino design on a whole has won. In 2015 it won an iF Design award, as voted on by 53 international experts. The then recently launched Solaris Urbino was the joint work of Solaris’s engineers and studioFT design agency from Berlin, with the aim of providing an eye-catching, expressive, but also functional design that creates attractive travelling environment for passengers. “We are glad that jury of the iF and Top Design awards appreciated the unity of exterior and interior design which was the strategic concept of the idea. These two awards will undoubtedly boost Solaris’s profile, especially now that the new buses enter production’, said Jens Timmich of Berlin-based studioFT, co-designer.

1 With pantograph raised and some

of the battery storage at the rear revealed, it looks a little different to the norm. 2 Bright, airy and well laid out, the Solaris Urbino 12 interior doesn’t look half bad. At all. 3 Up-to-date analysis of battery energy levels and various travel information aids the driver’s job greatly.

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BUS SPECS MAKE: Solaris MODEL: Urbino 12 ENGINE: Dual-charging electric driveline featuring 240kWh batteries; overhead pantograph and plug-in depot charging. SUSPENSION: Front axle - ZF independent suspension, ZF rigid gantry axle; Drive axle ZF gantry axle or ZF gantry axle with integrated electric motors; Steering – ZF Servocom; ECAS air suspension with kneeling function. BRAKES: EBS electronic (dual-circuit) braking system incorporating the anti-blocking system (ABS) and the traction control system; (ASR), parking (hand) brake with emergency release function from the driver’s seat, bus stop brake BODY: 12m stainless steel, three-door; Redesigned stronger connections between vertical and horizontal steel profiles; stainless steel sheets and plywood flooring; noise level of 74.8 dBA; skin-on-skin assembly; aluminium panels + plastic elements MISC.: Bright and energy-efficient LED lighting inside the bus, anti-microbial copper handrails

opening to 170°, 40° more than until now, to facilitate easier access to components, it was claimed. And with its distinctive front end, commonality of parts throughout the Urbino family intended to reduce storage requirements and costs for operators. Other cool features of note included: improved axle loads via shifting some of the weight from the drive axle to the front of the bus, including a centralised assembly of all compressed air tanks at the front (for a higher passenger carrying capacity, better drive dynamics and improved servicing); improved insulation; a larger pedestal-free floor area; wider and higher doors for improved passenger flows (standard width of 1230mm may optionally

be increased to 1250mm, height can range from 1970mm to 2000mm; plus bright and energy-efficient LED lighting inside the bus. Drivers enjoy the ergonomic cab, higher seating, larger and panoramic windscreen and better handling via the a new, progressive suspension as well as a lower centre of gravity (the overall height of the bus has been reduced by 50mm while maintaining the same interior height). In terms of driveline, the new Urbino was designed not just for the use of small and large Euro6 diesel engines, but also gas-fuelled engines, diesel-electric hybrids and electric drives – so this recent win celebrates such flexibility.

“Thanks to this [two-charge] solution the driving range of the electric Urbino 12 is practically unlimited.” 1 Good entry access and a stylish look all around. 2 MC Hammer said ‘You can’t touch this!’ But these anti-microbial

copper rails you most certainly can. Die, Germs! Die! 3 “That’s not a dash. Now THAT’s a dash!” All that info visually

COPPER SHOWSTOPPER

‘wrapping around’ the driver. Nice.

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To continuously destroy germs deposited on their surfaces, helping reduce the spread of infection between passengers it’s claimed, the latest electric Solaris Urbino 12 is said to be the world’s first to feature anti-microbial copper handrails. Why so? With handrails among the most frequently-touched surfaces on a bus, Solaris decided to “make them from an inherently hygienic material”. Manufactured by local company STER, the rails are said to be lightweight and the solid copper alloy chosen is attractive and also colour stable. “Copper rapidly destroys germs that can be picked up, unseen, from frequently touched surfaces in the environment, potentially causing an illness. These include bacteria, such as E. coli, and viruses, such as influenza and the ‘winter vomiting bug’ novovirus. Fewer germs on surfaces mean less risk of infections spreading between people touching them,” the company states. For more information on antimicrobial copper, visit www.antimicrobialcopper.org

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.

Smartphone Airselfie

WHAT? WHO? HOW MUCH? CONTACT?

Airselfie Airselfie Holdings $300 RRP www.airselfiecamera.com

WE ARE ALL guilty of taking – or wanting to - a good ol’ selfie now and then, but maybe not like those crazy ‘fear-of-no-heights’ people that scale some of the world’s tallest buildings to take them. In fact, those people would probably love something like the Airselfie – a (get this) remotecontrolled smartphone ‘sleeve’ that is also a camera! Or should that be a camera that is also a phone cover? Either way, it’s wicked. According to the project’s developers, it comprises four powerful propellers and a

5-megapixel video camera (enclosed in an Italian-designed, stylish and lightweight (52g) aluminium case that measures 3.72 x 2.65 x 0.42 inches), but AirSelfie is smaller than a smartphone and can fly vertically up to 66 feet. This allows users to take aerial selfies of themselves and their friends, it’s claimed. The device connects to the most popular smartphones, including iPhone (6, 6s, 7 and 7 Plus), Huawei P9, Google Pixel and Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge. The device includes self-generated Wi-Fi and comes equipped with a rechargeable

battery through a cell phone case, as well as the option to purchase an external power bank. Additionally, a vibration-absorber system and in-flight stability systems guarantee stable, clear, flowing images. It can be used indoors or out and comes in three colours. AirSelfie comes equipped with 4 GB micro SD memory card and a 260mAh 7.4v battery that enables three minutes of flight time. Result! Pre-orders of the pocket-sized flying camera are said to be delivered by March 2017. It should be awesome.

Stopsleep DRIVER FATIGUE is a major issue for all road drivers that often goes unnoticed or addressed – until it’s too late. So there’s stacks of R&D and money being pumped into a range of ideas and concepts aimed at keeping drivers awake, in a practical way. StopSleep, as the name implies, promises to do just that for drivers, by analysing and interpreting your “physiological condition based on galvanic skin conductivity”. It might sound sci-fi – and it kind of is, but if it means saving lives and reducing accidents on our roads then it’s

worth a good look at, for sure. According to the company, StopSleep “continuously monitors the ever changing conductivity of your skin using eight built-in sensors. The device provides warning signals in the form of vibrations and loud alert tones, which will escalate as the loss of concentration increases. Initially, you may not notice any loss of concentration or even feel tired, but the device is responding to early warning signs.” This is the same technology used in lie detector polygraphs, the company states.

The portable device is made in the form of a double ring, in the upper part of which is the analytical module. The device is equipped with means of alert: vibration, sound and light. All of the elements of the device in contact with the human body, is made of hypoallergenic materials that do not cause irritation or discomfort during prolonged wear, it’s claimed. The housing is made from strong, durable plastic that is safe for humans. It weighs only 40g and measures 40×25×12mm, and operates on a single charge for15 hours.

WHAT? WHO? HOW MUCH? CONTACT?

StopSleep StopSleep Australia $299 inc GST (Free delivery Australia wide) www.stopsleep.com.au

Alarm Shock

WHAT? WHO? HOW MUCH? CONTACT?

Alarm Shock Alarm Shock TBC www.alarmshock.com

WE DON’T know which sadomasichist invented this thing, but it all kind of makes sense. Based on the idea of not just waking up but actually getting up, this is one alarm clock from hell, so to speak – it zaps you! As the company states, “with Alarmshock, your brain soon realises that the pleasure of snoozing is not an option and avoids the discomfort of the shock. Staying

in bed with Alarmshock is harder than getting up.” Apparently, Alarmshock has been tested by ‘hard-core snoozers’, and they all say you can’t avoid it. When your alarm goes off, your only choice is to get up and start your day straight away. Snoozing will be the least desirable option, it’s claimed. And depending on how intense the jolt is – we are thinking more taser than tickle, otherwise what’s the

point – that seems fair. In addition, by getting up at the same time every day you can train yourself into a reliable sleep pattern making it easier and easier to get up, the boffins say. No bad thing given how anti-cancerous a good sleep pattern can be. The band is slimline, lightweight, smooth and soft. Synch it in to the clock part and then get to bed and wait for the fireworks hours later.

Company Car

Where For Art Thou, ‘Romeo’? In what may well be Alfa Romeo’s last throw of the dice to convince performance-sedan lovers down-under they can give the Germans some proper stick, the new Giulia Quadrifoglio is well poised to raise the stakes and call them names. And a little four-leaf-clover luck wouldn’t hurt, either. Fabian Cotter reports.

MW and Merc look out! Your M3 and AMG C63 are put on notice that the latest Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio is looking pretty serious about slicing deeply into your luxury performance-saloon territory. And with Nurburgring-taming lap times under its belt, this halo car sounds a lot more convincing than just hot air and excessive hands waving while it speaks. Spearheading four variations of the Giulia to arrive here in February, 2017, the highly anticipated Quadrifoglio – said to hammer the 0-100km/h in just 3.9 seconds and is the current Nurburgring production-sedan lap record holder at 7min, 32sec - has enough of the key stats and numbers in its favour as a serious contender to really shake up the market, and buyers may well just be aching to be seen

producing 147kW (330Nm@1750-4000rpm) for a claimed 0-100km/h of 6.6 seconds, and importantly a combined cycle fuel economy of 6.0L/100km. Safety stuff gets you Forward Collision Warning (FCW) with Autonomous Emergency Brake (AEB) and pedestrian recognition, Integrated Brake System (IBS), and Lane Departure Warning (LDW). Trick bits include: leather upholstery, 18-inch alloy wheels, bi-Xenon headlamps, keyless go, stop/start technology, satellite navigation, dualzone climate control, rain sensing wipers, cruise control, rear parking sensors and a reverse parking camera. The Giulia’s interior features the Alfa DNA rotary driving mode selector, a 3.5-inch TFT colour cluster instrument panel, UConnect 6.5-

premium sound system. Yet it will be the Giulia Quadrifoglio to get most of the deserved spotlight. With a classleading power-to-weight ratio - thanks to Alfa Romeo’s lightweight technology and its Ferrari-inspired, 2.9-litre, 375kW/600Nm twinturbo all-aluminium V6 engine, says Alfa – the Quadrifoglio does 100km/h in 3.9 seconds and has a top speed beyond 300km/h, it’s claimed. Add in cylinder-deactivation technology and the Quadrifoglio’s fuel economy is 8.2L/100km. Outside it really is a saucy-looking machine. As you’d expect from a nation that gave us Sophia Loren, Angelina Jolie and supermodel Megan Gale – okay, so Jolie just sounds it and Gale was an Aussie ring-in, but you get the point – the Giulia is gorgeous and the Quadrifoglio variant gets sports bodykit, 19-inch

“...lightweight technology and Ferrari-inspired, 2.9-litre, 375kW/600Nm twin-turbo all-aluminium V6 engine.” in something ‘a little different’. And then there are just those thousands of buyers of genuine, or even wannabe, Italian decent that would buy any Alfa anyway just on principle alone – except this time it looks like they just may be putting their money down on something that actually practices what it preaches. With all-new rear-wheel drive, a claimed perfect 50/50 weight distribution, mandatory distinctive Italian styling, plus innovative engine and driver technologies, it’s sounding the business thus far. And backed by a fivestar EuroNCAP rating and the highest adult occupant protection score ever achieved, it’s got you and your family’s safety covered it seems, too. Trim levels include Giulia, Giulia Super, Giulia Veloce, and the exhilaratingly sounding Giulia Quadrifoglio. Engines available are three petrol and one diesel, all mated to a ZF eight-speed automatic gearbox. The Quadrifoglio’s siblings aren’t too shabby, either, in terms of performance. Try the turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol Giulia

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inch display multi-media system with DAB and Bluetooth connectivity, and an eight-speaker audio system. Giulia Super comes in either a 147kW/330Nm petrol or new-gen 2.2-litre, four-cylinder turbodiesel making 132kW/450Nm@17503750rpm. Just 4.2L/100km on the urban/ country combined cycle, yet 0-100km/h in 7.1 seconds. A nice all-rounder. Add in more cow hide and an eight-way power driver’s seat, active cruise control, heated steering wheel and blind spot monitoring. Next up is the Giulia Veloce with a 206kW/400Nm turbo 2.0-litre petrol, good for 100km/h in 5.8 seconds, says Alfa, swallowing 6.1L/100km on the combined cycle. Veloce tweaks include Alfa SDC adjustable suspension, limited-slip rear differential, 19-inch Veloce alloys and an uprated braking package, with calipers distinctively finished in red. Of course! Slipping inside you’ll additionally find aluminium dash inserts and pedals, sports leather seats and steering wheel, and a

forged alloy wheels, and bi-Xenon headlamps with Adaptive Front Lighting System (AFLS) and automatic high beam to sweeten the deal. Inside, it has that real Italian-thoroughbred supercar feel with leather-wrapped surfaces throughout featuring contrast stitching, plus aluminium and carbon-fibre highlights. Backsides will love the leather and Alcantara front eight-way-adjustable sports seats and eardrums will resonate delightedly to the Harmon Kardon 14-speaker sound system. A bespoke 8.8-inch multimedia screen housing the entertainment system, satellite navigation and climate air-conditioning controls is easily accessed via a centrally mounted rotary dial. Will it be all it’s hoped it will be? Purists will recall the awesomeness that was the Alfetta 1.8, but that was a very, very long time ago. So with the Giulia Named Top Gear UK’s 2016 Car of the Year, we can’t wait for it to hit our shores to find out. Full specifications and local pricing to be revealed soon. Until then ciao! Arrivederci! Bomboniere … and all that stuff.

CAR SPECS MAKE: Alfa Romeo MODEL: Giulia Quadrifoglio ENGINE: Petrol 2.9-litre, twinturbo all-aluminium V6. POWER - 375kW@6500rpm, TORQUE – 600Nm@2500-5000rpm TRANSMISSION: ZF 8-Speed Automatic with manual shift paddles; RWD SUSPENSION: Front Alfa Link double wishbone, Rear Alfa Link Suspension with vertical rod, AlfaTM Active Suspension, Active Differential BRAKES: Cross-drilled rotors – front 360x32mm, rear - 350x28mm, red brake calipers WHEELS/TYRES: 19-inch forged alloys; Pirelli P Zero Corsa - front 245/35 R19, rear 285/30 R19 BODY: Carbon fibre AlfaTM Active Aero splitter; Monza exhaust with quad tips; carbon fibre bonnet, roof and rear spoiler INTERIOR: Leather and Alcantara seats; 8.8-inch colour display with navigation; Harman Kardon Sound Theatre MISC.: Lane Departure Warning; Blind Spot Monitoring with rear Cross Path Detection; front and rear parking sensors; Autonomous Emergency Braking; Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

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064Money Matters

Paul Clitheroe USE OUR GREAT SUPERANNUATION SYSTEM WISELY – AND DO IT EARLY!

OME RECENT overseas travel made me realise what a great

place Australia is to call home. And we’re not just the lucky country in

terms of our high living standards. A recent global survey found we have one of the best superannuation systems in the world

– ranking third behind Denmark and the Netherlands. It seems Australians are pretty happy with

our super system, too. Research by industry body ASFA found more than half of us support super as a good way of saving for retirement, and 65 per cent of people say they are happy with their fund.

Even better, we’re increasingly keeping track of our super by sticking to just one fund. The number of Australians with multiple super accounts has halved in the past three years, and that’s a good thing.

However, 50 per cent of people don’t know how much super they will need for retirement, and 25 per cent want more information on super. The second issue is easily resolved.

There is a wealth of freely available information online and one of the best places to start is your own super fund, or simply check out the MoneySmart website.

The question of how much money we need in retirement is less clear cut. You don’t need a fortune to live well, but the nest egg that’s

right for you depends on your personal goals. It pays to think about your plans for retirement, how much your preferred lifestyle will cost, and whether your assets will fund this. Your views on estate planning matter too, especially if you plan to leave a large inheritance. It’s also worth allowing some flexibility for

the inevitable tweaking of our super system. That’s exactly what we’ve seen in recent days with a fresh round of changes to super passed through parliament. A key change that may affect workers planning to ramp up their super savings late in their working life is a reduction in the before-tax money you can contribute to super each year. These ‘concessional’

contributions, which include your employer’s compulsory contributions plus salarysacrificed contributions, will be limited to $25,000 annually from 1 July 2017. That’s down from $30,000 at present, or $35,000 if you’re aged over 50. Your super fund can provide more information on the latest fine-tuning of the super rules, but ongoing changes to super are behind my best tip on saving for retirement - which is to plan early. It’s often not until we are in our 50s that the reality of a looming retirement sets in, and by then it can be challenging to accumulate significant savings. Aiming to

steadily grow a pool of investments, including superannuation, throughout your working life is far more achievable.

“These ‘concessional’ contributions ... will be limited to $25,000 annually from 1 July 2017. That’s down from $30,000 at present, or $35,000 if you’re aged over 50.”

064 www.truckandbus.net.au

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.

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• Choice of six-speed automatic transmission or eight-speed two pedal Opticruise Giving fleet operators a virtual off-the-shelf solution means rapid order-to-delivery times come as standard.

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