Bus and Coach Winter 2020

OFFICIAL IRISH JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL BUS/COACH AWARDS

Volume 16. No. 2. Winter 2020

INSIDE

ALTAS AUTO unveils all-new flagship Viator mini-coach

PROFILES: Pierce Kavanagh Coaches & Wexford Bus - Fleet #StrengthInUnity Transport Heroes Award Winners REPORT: Busworld - Istanbul, Turkey FEATURE: MAN looks to Zero-Emissions plus: News, Views, Pin-Pics & Obituaries

Where you travel best is up to you.

How you travel best is with a Van Hool.

Functional, efficient and developed according to the values of the Van Hool range: high reliability coupled with a high degree of finish.

47 EX 11L

The next step in the constant evolution of our coaches. As always, elegant and efficient, timeless and contemporary, made with the passenger, the driver and the environment in mind.

EX 16L

TX16 Acron

47 EX 11H

TX18 Altano

TX18 Acron

55

75 TX19 Altano

59

65 EX 17H

69

71

59 EX 16H

EX 15M

TX17 Altano

TX17 Acron

55

63

67

63 EX 16M

EX 15L

61

63

TX16 Astron

55

68 TDX20 Altano

67

EX 15H

TX17 Astron

74 TDX21 Altano

53 TX15 Astronef

Maximum number of passengers (excl. driver and guide).

88 TDX25 Astromega

59 TX16 Astronef

93 TDX27 Astromega

67 TX17 Astronef

Elegance and efficiency in transport.

Bernard Van Hoolstraat 58 • 2500 Lier (Koningshooikt) • Belgium

+32 3 420 20 20

sales.bc@vanhool.com

www.vanhool.com

www.fleet.ie | 57

Contents Winter 2020 Fleet Bus & Coach Magazine D’Alton Street, Claremorris, Co. Mayo, Ireland.

Tel: +353 (0)94 9372819/ 9372826 Fax: +353 (0)94 9373571 Email: enquiries@fleet.ie ISSN: 1649-9433

58 News Ireland’s fist hydrogen powered bus arrives Virgin Hyperloop - history making CitySwift expands in Galway Labcraft illuminates

P58

62 Cover Introducing the all-new Altas Viator

Managing Editor: Jarlath Sweeney | Editor: Sean Murtagh Contributors: Rob Van Dieten, Rasmus Haargaard, Stuart Jones Photography: Jarlath Sweeney, Sean Murtagh Administration: Orla Sweeney | Advertising: Mary Morrissey Design: Eamon Wynne | Printed in Ireland

Fleet Bus & Coach - the official Irish journal of the International Bus/Coach of the Year Awards.

Fleet Transport/ Fleet Car/ Green Fleet Management/ Fleet Van & Utility/ Fleet Bus & Coach/ Fleet Trailer & Body Builder/ Fleet Maritime & Caravan Cruise Ireland are published by JJDS Publications Ltd. Registered Office: D’Alton Street, Claremorris, Co. Mayo. Co. Reg. 368767 Directors: Jarlath Sweeney, Sean Murtagh.

Disclaimer: Fleet Bus & Coach Magazine management can accept no responsibility for the accuracy of contributed articles or statements appearing in this magazine and any views or opinions expressed are not necessarily those of Fleet Bus & Coach management, save where otherwise indicated. No responsibility for loss or distress occasioned to any person acting or refraining from acting as a result of the material in this publication can be accepted by the authors, contributors, Editors or publishers.

The Editor reserves the right to make publishing decisions on any advertisements or editorial article submitted to the magazine and to refuse publication or to edit any editorial material as seems appropriate to him. Professional legal advice should always be sought in relation to any specific matter.

64 Profile Tribute to Pierce Kavanagh Coaches & Wexford Bus - Fleet #StrengthInUnity Transport Heroes Award Winners

P64

66 Report Busworld - Istanbul, Turkey 68 Feature MAN looks to emission free energies 70 Conductor’s Stand 2020 Covid vision

P74

72 Tributes Obituaries on our Danish, English and Swedish colleagues who passed away recently 74 Pin Pics Featuring football and electro-mobility

www.fleet.ie

58 | NEWS I

Ireland’s First Hydrogen Fuel Cell Bus goes on trial in Dublin

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hrough Hydrogen Mobility Ireland (HMI), the first ever Hydrogen Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle (FCEV) is being put into public service operation on the island of Ireland.

The zero emissions Caetano ‘H2.CityGold’ fuel cell electric preproduction bus, powered by a 60KW Toyota fuel cell stack, is currently operating a multi-week in-service trial in the Dublin area.

Trialled in conjunction with the Department of Transport, the Hydrogen Fuel Cell Bus is being operated on different routes by CIÉ Group bus companies Bus Éireann and Dublin Bus as well as by Dublin City University (DCU) and Dublin Airport over a number of weeks in November and December, albeit carrying limited passengers due to the current Covid restrictions.

This is a cutting-edge technology that promises to make a huge contribution to the Climate challenge in Ireland, specifically in the Transport Sector. The emission free Caetano ‘H2.CityGold’ bus will run on green hydrogen (H2) produced in Dublin by BOC Gases Ireland Ltd using renewable electricity and water. The fuel cell electric bus is refuelled in minutes, similar to a conventional bus and its electric motive power is obtained when the Hydrogen molecules from its fuel are combined with oxygen molecules from the air in the Fuel Cell. The only waste output from the vehicle is water.

As part of HMI’s roadmap for hydrogen deployment, this collaborative trial will extend from early November to mid-December, giving real inuse information on the practical operation of the technology in varying weather, usage, and traffic conditions. HMI member ESB will provide the green electricity used to produce the Hydrogen fuel for the trial.

Speaking at the launch, Mark Teevan, HMI Chairman said: “This should be viewed as an important event, not because it’s the first H2 bus on the road; but because it is a first step into the future for Ireland, enabling us to begin to envisage the practical solutions that will allow us to fully decarbonise road transport. We are all very conscious of the Environmental challenge we face in meeting our 2030 targets and the need to find zero-emissions solutions that will satisfy the varying needs of different users; public transport, haulage, van delivery, taxi or private car. FCEV’s are Electric Vehicles, providing specific benefits that include very quick refuelling, long range, and a particular suitability for heavy and long-distance requirements.”

Lorcan O'Connor, CIE Group CEO and Caoimhe Donnelly, Chief Sustainability Officer - CIE.

CaetanoBus, part of the Salvador Caetano Group and Mitsui & Co, is major manufacturer of buses and coaches in Portugal. Thanks to the fast refuelling time of less than 9 minutes, and the high autonomy of the vehicle, city operations are not compromised. H2.City Gold has a range of up to 400 km on a single refill, a differentiating feature in the fuel cell bus market, thereby enabling it to be used on longer routes.

The trial will allow the partners to test this technology in everyday driving conditions and at a challenging time of the year in terms of weather, thereby gaining valuable information about the potential for large scale introduction of this technology in Ireland. DCU/CIE also intend to obtain insights and feedback from passengers on the bus. This hugely significant step will be followed early next year by a National Transport Authority trial involving a number of Double Decker FCEV buses. Meanwhile in Northern Ireland, HMI Member Energia will shortly commence the production of H2 for road transport at a Wind Farm in County Antrim which will be used as fuel for FCEV buses in Belfast. The increasing rate of developments is a visible confirmation that hydrogen for road transport is beginning to move into the delivery phase.

The Hydrogen Mobility Ireland project is a partnership of businesses from across many sectors, together with public sector and academic stakeholders, with all-Island cooperation, joining together to deliver a coordinated approach to the introduction of this cutting-edge technology to ensure that Ireland can benefit from being an early starter in this environmental transport solution. In addition to its use in transport, it is anticipated that Hydrogen will have a significant role to play in the decarbonisation of many other sectors of the economy.

Virgin Hyperloop makes history

H

faster than high speed rail, and ten times faster than traditional rail. The technology is set to revolutionise how passengers and goods are moved.

Hyperloop technology uses electric propulsion and electromagnetic levitation under near-vacuum conditions to achieve incredibly fast transportation speeds. Hyperloop vehicles travel three times

Th is test run marks a historic milestone in the development of the technology. Up until now there is no fully functional hyperloop in the world and it has never before been tested successfully with passengers. Co-Founder and CTO, Josh Giegel, and Sara Luchian, Director of Passenger Experience for

istory made in the Nevada Desert recently, with Virgin Hyperloop team, following a successful test run, become the fi rst company in the world to successfully transport human passengers in a hyperloop vehicle.

FLEETBUS&COACH | Winter 2020

Hyperloop, were the fi rst human occupants in the pod. The test took place at Virgin Hyperloop’s 500 metre DevLoop test site in Las Vegas, where the company has previously run over 400 un-occupied tests.

60 | NEWS II

CitySwift to create 50 new roles over the next 24 months

C

itySwift, the bus data engine developer and provider, has announced 50 additional jobs together with a move to new headquarters in the heart of Galway.

Company co-founders Brian O’Rourke and Alan Farrelly were joined

by Hildegarde Naughton, Minister of State at the Department of Transport, to launch the expansion of the business, having secured €2m in funding from existing investors Enterprise Ireland, Western Development Commission, ACT Venture Capital, Irelandia Investment, and Mike McGearty. The new roles will be across soft ware, data science, and commercial areas including customer success, sales and marketing.

Speaking on the expansion of CitySwift, Minister of State Hildegarde Naughton stated, “I welcome the announcement of 50 jobs in Galway. Growth of this scale for a local company, especially during these times, is remarkable. Informing and enhancing connectivity across the nation through CitySwift’s platform will do a great deal in optimising public transportation for operators and passengers alike.”

Brian O’Rourke added, “We are incredibly proud to be one of the homegrown companies in Galway. CitySwift is an Irish-founded scale-up that is continuing to grow at a rapid rate. Unblocking cities through public transport is a vital component of a city’s infrastructure, and it is critically important that the industry continues to innovate. We are excited to continue to invest in the

best talent to fuel our expansion with the hiring of 50 new roles for our Galway headquarters and look forward to fi nding some of the most talented soft ware, transport and commercial professionals in Galway and Ireland to come on board our journey”.

“We are excited to continue to invest in the best talent to fuel our expansion with the hiring of 50 new roles for our Galway headquarters and look forward to fi nding some of the most talented soft ware, transport and commercial professionals in Galway and Ireland to come on board our journey.”

Founded in 2016 by Brian and Alan, CitySwift is a Galway success story. Created and supported by transport industry experts, its industry-leading data engine uses big data, AI and machine learning to improve public transport network performance, service reliability and passenger satisfaction.

Labcraft lighting solution helps coach operator to see and be seen

L

abcraft has developed a new external lighting system for coaches in order to improve safety during confi ned night time manoeuvres and to enable passengers to more easily locate their awaiting coach at busy locations during poor light or darkness.

Suitable for a wide variety of applications, the Si6 Scenelite, which is designed and manufactured by Labcraft in the UK, provides a clean, white light to illuminate the immediate vicinity around a vehicle for a brighter, safer environment.

Fitt ing a single Scenelite centrally on each side at the top of the coach helps significantly when reversing in tight spaces and when passengers are embarking and leaving the coach. During pick-up at big events, drivers can simply switch on the additional lights from the cab and passengers can quickly identify their correct coach.

The Si6 Scenelite uses high-efficiency Cree LEDs to maximise light output and produces an exceptional 2,000 lumens of bright, white light. By using six LEDs specifically angled for maximum light dispersion, the Si6 casts a sharp field of illumination down onto the adjacent area. The Si6 range is supported by Labcraft’s market leading 10-year warranty and, along with its complete LED lighting range, is ECE-R10 approved.

FLEETBUS&COACH | Winter 2020

Th is multi-voltage product (10-32VDC) can be used in a wide range of additional applications including the emergency services, welfare and utility vans, industrial applications and any application that requires a bright, wide spread of light. To guard against the most severe weather conditions and pressure washing, the Si6 is manufactured from solid aluminium and tough Polycarbonate with all internal components encased within a Polyurethane compound, to give an Ingress Protection rating of IP67.

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62 | COVER

Introducing Viator from ALTAS Auto – the latest Mini-Coach from EVM Direct

E

VM Direct is introducing the second generation ALTAS Auto Viator midi-class tourist coach into the UK and Irish marketplaces. Based on the range-topping Iveco Daily chassis and drivetrain, the award-winning Viator now benefits from a more powerful engine, improved driver’s cabin, and exterior redesign.

One of the key improvements for the Lithuanian company’s flagship model is the addition of the latest FPT/Iveco 3.0 litre Euro 6 diesel which boasts 210hp and 470Nm. Mated to an 8-speed Hi-Matic ZF auto box, it makes the new Viator more dynamic than ever. Every model features air suspension, Telma retarder and a highly efficient air conditioning system, with a power output of 18kW and heating system with 12kW. Modifications to the Viator’s exterior include full LED headlights and LED fog lights, while the rear light cluster has also been updated. The interior has been refreshed

FLEETBUS&COACH | Winter 2020

too with a redesigned dash area and multifunctional steering wheel together with some other improvements to ensure superior comfort and better user experience.

Other specification information includes: • Luggage compartment at rear is 2.8m3 while on each side there is up to 1m3 storage space • Optimal length of 8.5 metres.

• Gross Vehicle Weight is 7,200kg.

• Configurations of 25 to 29 seats + guide and driver The fi rst-right hand drive Viator models are already on the way to the UK and Ireland.

Kilbeggan, County Westmeath based EVM Direct, Altas’ long term partner in the UK and Ireland is ready to answer all questions about this exclusive midi-coach which the company believes will be a welcome addition to its already well established product line up.

Altas Auto is a Lithuanian minibus and mini-coach manufacturer, established in

2002. Minibuses were always the company’s strategic priority, but since 2016 the company commenced plans to enter the midi-coach market with the development of the Viator, offering optimal layouts of 25 to 29 seats + guide and driver and the latest edition of the PSVAR compliance option.

In creating the Viator, Altas Auto analysed the current offerings from various coachbuilders in different markets, in order to defi ne customer needs and refine the best qualities in their new product. The Altas designers utilised extensive customer feedback and research from EVM management and sales representatives in designing the new product.

The philosophy behind the idea of Viator is simple, according to Edvardas Radzevičius, CEO, Altas Auto – “The sum of all good midicoach qualities is the balance of everyone’s needs.”

“We had a goal to enter the midi-coach market. Manufacturing mini-buses is what we have been doing for a long time, but the midi-coach development requires a lot more

COVER | 63 of manufacturers’ know-how,” he added.

This plan was taking shape at the end of 2016 after the company moved to a new factory at Pikutiškes. Additional resources, an increase in production capacity, and better human resource possibilities accelerated Altas Auto into starting intense new product research and development projects. The basic idea was to develop a tourist version midi-coach as at that time touring buses were the flagship models from the brand. The vehicle building process began almost from scratch, with only the chassis and engine utilised from the Iveco Daily. After more than one year of engineering and designing, the concept vehicle, named Viator (which means Traveller in Latin) was made and presented at the 2018 IAA CV exhibition in Hanover, Germany. From 2019 Altas Auto was fully prepared to start serial production for its home and European markets and has just fi nished production of right-hand drive models for UK and Ireland.

In the design process, Altas Auto decided to look for solutions in Lithuania among young designer engineers from the national arts academies. While the in-house designers specified all the requirements everything else was left to the new team’s creativity and improvisation. Their collective good work was recognised in winning the Silver prize at the annual A‘Design Awards 2019, a proud achievement by the Lithuanian company, especially as only national resources were used.

Stainless steel forms the main frame of the Viator‘s body, while the exterior components are made from fibreglass, so the vehicle is in the main corrosion resistant. Much attention was centred towards noise insulation and weight reduction, using composite plastic materials which are lighter than the plywood that is typically used by other manufacturers.

On the roof two wings on each side provide a subtle cover for the air-conditioning system and connect to the rear spoiler which has an

Text: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie

integrated reverse camera and additional lights. The side elements of the vehicle are made from fibreglass, except the luggage flaps, as they produced from aluminium which is also lightweight, and corrosion proof. Much focus was given to rear and side luggage flaps, so that they open easily and are within easy reach of the different luggage sections. For example, the rear luggage compartment can be reached from the back and the side section. Therefore, luggage space is generous. At the rear it’s 2.8m33 while on each side there is up to 1 m33 luggage space.

Depending on the regulations for this class of vehicle, Viator has an optimal length of 8.5 metres, the maximum permittable due to gross weight issues, which currently stands at 7,200kg.

Altas engineers also put much effort to make the driver’s position most comfortable, and ergonomic. The control units are designed to be easily reached with a convenient layout of the buttons and other control modules.

The driver’s seat is well supported with air suspension and he/she can see the most important information on the screen of the control unit. Noticeable is the size of the windshield, as big as possible to facilitate

all-round visibility. Rear parking sensors ensure safer manoeuvring.

In the passenger’s compartment, high quality natural leather is used for the reclining seats, while the roof lining is made from brightly coloured plastic to reflect the light from the modules. The rear door (emergency side door) is wide enough to accommodate wheelchairs, by using the special lift to fulfi l PSVAR requirements. To provide refreshments, the 80-litre refrigerator is fitted as an option and installed in front of the vehicle. As expected, Wi-Fi and USB sockets are available.

In entering the competitive midi-coach segment, the Viator aims to compete in the market by offering clients higher added value and quality build. The Altas design team have ensured that both the exterior and interior of the vehicle are expressive, memorable, but also ergonomic and optimal for every user. In applying knowledge of a customer’s daily routine, keeping the vehicle in good condition in paramount. With this in mind the Viator is easily cleaned and practical from all aspects, so even the smallest details are designed to be long-lasting.

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64 | PROFILE

Pierce Kavanagh Coaches: Recipient of the Fleet #StrengthInUnity Transport Heroes Award

L

ike every other bus and coach company in the country, Pierce Kavanagh Coaches saw its business plans and forecasts came crashing down in March.

Due to Covid-19, these best laid plans and projections literally were not worth the paper they were written on. Deposit refunds on booked tours, rebooking passengers and cancelling incoming tour series on behalf over overseas clients was its main focus over the fi rst 6 weeks of the pandemic.

Thereafter however, the focus switched to preparing to restart and restructure the business. Caoimhe, Pierce and John, who run the family owned fi rm, worked hard to ensure their hotel partners were ready for launch as soon as it came viable to hit the road again. From the end of August until recently, Pierce Kavanagh Coaches has been back on the road, showcasing Staycations in Ireland by coach to a public satisfied that they can ‘ holiday safely’ by following Failte Ireland’s Covid-19 Safety Charter.

Pierce Kavanagh Coaches was established in 1962 by Pierce Kavanagh Snr. The business has been owned and operated for the last 30 years by his sons John, Pierce Junior and Pierce’s wife Caoimhe.

Based in Urlingford, County Kilkenny, the operator specialises in the high-end North American coach tour business to Ireland and also operates a very successful programme within the Irish market selling upmarket coach tours of Ireland and the UK. One of the things that Covid-19 has shown Pierce Kavanagh Coaches is that while it is relatively easy to operate successfully during boom times, with limited input for maximum output, it was a different story when things came tumbling down in the tourism and travel sector.

Gett ing though the crisis required its collective team of drivers, mechanics, back office employees and most of all hotel partners and media partners to stand by the company. Th is cooperation and flexibility ensured Pierce Kavanagh Coaches was able to start operating straight away when the time was right.

Commenting to Fleet Bus & Coach on receiving the Fleet #StrengthInUnity Transport Heroes Award, Caoimhe Kavanagh said: “We were delighted to receive this award from our industry peers. Th is has been a dreadful year for the coach tourism industry, not just for coach company owners but also everyone employed directly and indirectly within the coach tourism sector who have largely been forgotten, their contributions to Ireland’s previous economic prosperity disregarded. Our focus this year has been on trying to ensure we don’t lose our talented team, talent that is the absolute essence of our success and vital to ensure we have the ability to hit the road again FLEETBUS&COACH | Winter 2020

when this nightmare is over. We had a small window of opportunity this summer to market our Staycation programme embracing the Fáilte Ireland’s Covid-19 Safety Charter guidelines. Our Staycation programme before local lockdown offered a much needed break away to our client base and was extremely well received, we hope to operate again as soon as restrictions are lifted.”

“We’re extremely grateful to Fleet Transport Magazine for recognising the hard work our entire team, partner hotels and attractions put into our ‘2020 Staycation’ programme under difficult constantly moving parameters. We’re proud of our team and proud to be associated with everyone working so hard for Ireland’s coach industry future,” added Caoimhe.

PROFILE | 65

Fleet #StrengthInUnity Transport Heroes Award for Wexford Bus Brendan Crowley, Managing Director, Wexford Bus commented on addressing the issue: “When the lockdown was announced we immediately contacted the National Transport Authority which confi rmed that public transport is a frontline service. We are privileged to hold public transport licenses and felt it was our civic responsibility to continue to operate services for customers who work as frontline workers and needed to make essential journeys.

Services were maintained on all routes operated, with reduced frequency during off peak travel times.”

W

ell-known ‘sunny-south east’ based passenger transport operator, Wexford Bus is a private company that has been operating public licensed bus services since 1996. Th is growing business, headed up by Brian Crowley with a team of over 40 staff and a fleet of 24 buses and coaches, is best known for operating route 740 on the M11 corridor between Wexford and Dublin City and Airport with up to 38 daily services.

Wexford Bus is continually expanding and recently introduced services between Wexford and Waterford, and Wexford and Carlow to increase connectivity within the south east. Wexford Bus Connect encompasses the local routes around Wexford town and serving Rosslare Strand, Castlebridge and Kilmore Quay.

Over the decades, the company has put customers and their safety at the forefront of everything it does and continually strives to develop its service offering.

Resilience is defi ned as “an ability to recover from or adjust easily to misfortune or change”. The Wexford Bus team showed resilience throughout this crisis. The team quickly embarked on a series of alterations to its fleet to reduce the contact between passengers and drivers and maintain physical distancing. Alterations included erection of a plexiglass protective screen by the driver, screens between rows of passengers, directional signage and hand sanitisation stations. In addition, many new work practices and new technologies were introduced to reduce the risks of contracting COVID-19 while travelling with Wexford Bus. These included new cleaning and disinfecting regimes, introduction of card payment devices, coin drop facilities and the promotion of booking in advance through the website.

Brendan continued: “Keeping our staff and customers healthy and safe whilst doing our best to minimise the risk to all was and is our top priority. I will be forever grateful to the Wexford Bus team: the drivers who were working on the frontline during this uncertain time and our support team who showed incredible innovation by altering the fleet and our work practices to protect staff and customers alike.”

Certif ied w ith ISO 9001:2015 accreditation, Wexford Bus worked with the Health & Safety Authority over the past 12 months to craft its safety success story, which involved completion of initial questionnaire, several discussions and site visit to assess suitability and confi rm f leet risk management activities and business benefits.

Wexford Bus is honoured to have been acknowledged at the Fleet Transport # StrengthInUnity Transport Heroes Awards for continuing to operate throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

The company operated an uninterrupted but reduced schedule throughout the pandemic to facilitate essential workers carrying as little as 3% of the usual volume of customers at times.

Text: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie

www.fleet.ie

66 | REPORT

Busworld Istanbul 26-28 May – Istanbul Expo Centre seating capacity over 25 is an Otokar. In the past ten years Otokar, founded in 1963, has invested over €I billion in R&D, resulting in the launch of a new all-electric Kent 12m bus. It has a passenger capacity for 95 (29 seated, 65 standing).

I

t seems like a lifetime ago since Busworld staged its 8th exhibition bus show in Istanbul, Turkey, early last March.

Held over three days, over 8,000 visitors from 75 countries attended. With 118 exhibitors and suppliers, over 35 passenger transport vehicles were displayed, so visitors had plenty to see.

Although nobody knew for sure the extent to which Covid-19 would affect our lives at that stage, there were some ominous signs.

Events and travel were being effected, as airlines were noticing declining passenger numbers, but nobody could have predicted the amount of disruption the world was facing. Certainly bus operators could not have forecast that their sector would be one of the worst impacted. One thing witnessed, which in hindsight was a signal that things were about to get worse, was the sight of dozens of coaches parked along the pier where cruise ships usually dock. As no ships had been calling to Istanbul for a few weeks at that stage, obviously the dye had been cast.

Over the years, the Turkish economy has been volatile, suffering from huge swings from highs to lows in GDP terms. Currently, and over the past two years the economy has declined. Turkish manufacturers have become used to this volatility and during these periods change their focus to exporting. Local bus producer Otokar is a good example of this. As market leader (in the over 25 seats segment), its local turnover shrunk by 40%, but with renewed focus, its overall business expanded with increased exports. Now that Turkey has adopted for all new commercial vehicles to meet Euro 6, there is a move towards alternative fuels, including electric and gas powered buses. Traditionally Turkey has had a strong bus manufacturing base. Most of the European manufacturers have assembly plants based there, together with many local companies that coachbuild for the home and export market. In addition, Turkey is capable of manufacturing every component a bus or body builder requires, from the moulding for a staircase to the dashboard.

Fleet Bus & Coach while at the show, discovered a lot of parallels between the Irish and the Turkish markets.

Otokar 80% of Otokar’s production in 2019 was exported. Last year it delivered 20 new buses to Malta where there are already 240 units in service. Currently, some diesel buses are on trial in the UK. in its home market, 1 in 3 buses with a

FLEETBUS&COACH | Winter 2020

Isuzu Four new products were launched here. However, most people were interested in the Citiport 12m and 18m (155 seat) Compressed Natural Gas powered units. For operators not ready to move to alternative fuels, both versions are available with Cummins diesel and ZF Ecolife transmission. During the show, Busworld and Isuzu arranged a brief visit to the fi rm’s plant on the Asian side of Istanbul. 19,000 vehicles were assembled and manufactured here in 2019. Although predominantly a truck and Pick-up production facility, 4,000 buses were also built, with 50% of the units exported. Its EU R&D facility is based here also. Worldwide, the Isuzu Corporation employs over 80,000 at 66 production plants, recording a €7.1 billion turnover last year.

Karsan A recent arrival as a manufacturer, Karsan has gone straight to production of electric bus only and displayed the two production buses on offer. The 6m Jest launched in 2018 was joined by the 8m Atak on its stand. Sales in Europe have been encouraging, helped by its technical partnership with BMW. So far, 40 units of the Jest bus are in service in Germany Cummins The US drivetrain giant displayed a new low profi le electric batter y pack .

Designed for the European market, the key advantage of the new ‘slim’ battery design will allow it to be fitted under f loor, allowing the bus to retain a low centre of gravity.

It will also facilitate the coach builder with added space in the passenger area, and improve payload. Cummins identifies the need to continue developing batteries on two fronts, improved range and faster charging. Of course, all of this must be achieved by keeping costs competitive.

Text: Sean Murtagh - sean@fleet.ie

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68 | FEATURE

MAN focuses on Zero Emissions and Transport Solution’s for Cities electric buses into service in the past and it transpired that the electricity to power them came from old coal burning power stations. On balance, the oldest Euro 1 powered bus with clean diesel would have been kinder to the environment when the full energy supply chain is taken into account with the alternatively fuelled vehicle. For that reason, there is a bigger picture when it comes to making an investment in a new bus network for any city.

L

ike most manufacturers MAN Truck & Bus sees the challenge of achieving zero emissions for European cities as more than just supplying green vehicles. When selecting new buses, there are many alternative fuel options, ranging from Hybrid, CNG, Biogas, HVO and Biodiesel to full electric. Whatever system a city or region uses, it must meet the requirements and resources available.

Moving from a situation where an operator just needs to fuel a bus with diesel once a week to one where complex charging systems and storage facilities are required for different applications is challenging.

Diesel is a versatile fuel that can be used in any situation, whereas some of the more recent power systems will not be suitable in every environment.

Key to making any assessment for a region is calculating the investment and operating costs and comparing these to the benefits of lower emissions and reduced maintenance savings. When making an assessment on the practicality of using electric buses in a city, MAN uses a tool called 360 degree range. In conjunction with the local operator or City Council, the tool determines the viability and practicality of using electric buses under these six headings: • Determination of range based on local conditions.

• Analysis and simulation of suitable routes • Design of optimum charging and infrastructure systems • Consultation regarding energy supply and management • Verification of the service life of the vehicle battery • Plans for depot and workshop design Increasingly there is a stronger awareness of the source of the electric power. Some cities in Europe have put fleets of new

FLEETBUS&COACH | Winter 2020

On completion of an analysis by MAN for a particular city or region, an operator will be presented with some customised options for the routes involved with recommendations on what particular carbon free option might be best for them relating to the area they operate. An approach like this would likely be of great assistance to the National Transport Authority (NTA) as the Irish body plans for the future of bus travel in Dublin and all the major cities in Ireland.

MAN Truck & Bus in Ireland In Ireland the MAN range of trucks have been popular for decades. However, on the bus side, there are not as many integral or integrated passenger transport vehicles from the German brand on the road. As a bus chassis and driveline supplier to major coach builders, MAN is highly regarded among operators and has proven to offer reliable and robust products. Its TGE van range, based on the Volkswagen Crafter and made in Poland, has recently come to the Irish market and already it has made a significant impact in the courier/home delivery market. A mini-bus option is available in this range also.

Text & Photos: Sean Murtagh - sean@fleet.ie

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70 | CONDUCTOR'S STAND

Will 2021 ‘Kill or Cure’ the

2

020 has been an extraordinary year for everybody. Covid-19 has brought substantial change to all of our personal and professional lives. In business terms the bus and coach sector has been decimated. The restrictions that came into effect last March, following the speech made by the then Taoiseach, Leo Varadkar, resulted in the sector practically stopping dead. Many operators have not written an invoice since then. In September, school transport returned as students re-entered the classroom, while a trickle of private hire and some service routes started to operate again.

What will 2021 bring? Can all operators survive? How much assistance will the Government offer?

Fleet Bus & Coach put a series of questions to a selection of operators, manufacturers and suppliers to see what their view of the state of play is. Here is a flavour of the responses:

about the resumption of Airport transfer services. Fergal Barton, of Barton Transport, is also concerned that reduced airline access will restrict the potential for people to get to Ireland.

One area that may not be impacted as severely as others is city services, a view held by Dirk Snauwaert of Vanhool. He is confident that this side of the industry will return reasonably quickly, but is concerned at how long it may be before coach operators have the confidence to invest in new equipment.

Coach Tourism is a real issue, the time scale for returning to pre-COVID levels anticipated to be a lot longer. Caoimhe Moloney of Pierce Kavanagh Coaches mentioned that some of their clients are reducing booking capacity for 2021 and are now promoting 2022. It is estimated that there will be a return to service in the middle of next year, but how cost effective will it be for companies?

The questions put forward put, were: • Do you think the industry will get back to where it was Pre-Covid 19?

• Will some aspects of the industry change forever?

• What can Governments and State Agencies do to help the Bus & Coach sector?

• Is there anything positive to be taken from the Covid-19 crisis?

From the bus manufacturers’ perspective, Michele Ferrara, Director for coach sales at Volvo Coach in Sweden feels that sanitisation systems may become mandatory on buses, with a demand from the market to bring down the price of new vehicles. Maybe that is a bit of good news for operators.

Do you think the industry will get back to where it was Pre-Covid 19?

One of the remarkable observations in all the comments received was how, when the Lockdown eased in the Summer, people were content enough to travel by bus to work. Social distancing did not seem to be their biggest concern. Once there were hygiene points available at bus stops and on the bus, people seemed happy to travel.

A feature of coach tourism in the past few years has been the reduced numbers in groups which is resulting in smaller vehicles becoming the norm. Will this change, as people want their own space, or will a vaccine give us the confidence to be closer?

Eleanor Farrell of Bus Eireann maintains that it will be challenging for operators to rebuild confidence and re-assure passengers that traveling by bus is safe, particularly passengers with health issues. She makes an interesting point that many commuters

Virtually everybody in the industry is of the opinion that a return to normal will not happen in the short term, with the feeling that the starting point will be the introduction and effectiveness of a vaccine.

Operators estimate that it could take up to four years to see a return to Pre-Covid levels of business. John Halpenny, Chairman of the Coach Tourism & Transport Council (CTTC), said it could be 2026 before it happens and that unfortunately there will be casualties before reaching that timeline.

Th is is a view shared by most operators, including Brendan Crowley of Wexford Bus. He believes that commuter services will return a litt le faster, but is not as confident FLEETBUS&COACH | Winter 2020

Will some aspects of the industry change forever?

will have got out of the habit of using public transport during Covid-19 and will have to coaxed back to the bus.

So will there be regulatory changes? Mike Buckley of Kerry Coaches is worried and feels that business and incentive travel may be more regulated in the future, allowing for reduced numbers and sanitising facilities on buses. But on a positive note, he is confident this business will return, particularly the niche markets such as golf.

An aspect of the recovery will be the problems created by the lower residual value of coaches in the future. Are we entering a volatile period in second hand values of vehicles?

Danny Mc Gee of EVM Direct stated that as demand for travel is reduced it is inevitable that some companies will close, as there will be a glut of coaches in the market. It is likely that this will bring down the value of coaches by up to 30% or more. Are we facing a similar type problem now as we did in the property market collapse ten years ago? Negative equity in a coach is far more serious than a house. Some people see Covid-19 as an opportunity to move towards cleaner buses but the problem of the current stock has to be dealt with fi rst. Is it practical to off-load the current stock of second hand coaches to other markets? Possibly, but it could have a backlash if one part of the world decided to dump buses in other less well-off areas of the world, no matter how advantageous the deal would be for both seller and buyer.

Spanish manufacturer, Irizar see this as an opportunity for improving the environment, but they say, it will need Government intervention. The situation is well summed up by Tommy Callinan, of Callinan Coaches, who said that at the end of Covid-19, the sector will be left with a fleet of older coaches that operators will be handcuffed to, because of fi nancial commitments What can Governments and state agencies do to help the Bus & Coach sector?

In Ireland, the CTTC was quick to get start lobbying the government about the seriousness of the situation for its members.

Committee member Caoimhe Moloney is clear that the Government is still not grasping the full importance of the bus and coach industry to the economy. In an extensive document put forward to

CONDUCTOR'S STAND | 71

Bus & Coach Sector?

Government, followed up with a Budget 2021 proposal, the CTTC has sent detailed proposals to help rescue the industry. So far, the response has been limited. Intense political lobbying at a local level has helped create awareness while there has been some State help. Fergal Barton said that while the return of school transport was welcomed, as was the 50% payment by the Department of Education through Bus Eireann, when the schools closed last March. Assistance for those on scheduled services from the National Transport Authority (NTA) is helpful also, but the exclusion of operators from the CRSS scheme is unfair and the CTTC will continue to lobby for it.

A source of annoyance for operators long before Covid-19 was the advantage Northern Irish operators had over them, particularly in the area of VAT. Now is there is a chance to correct this and a chance to look at the VAT regulations and other tax anomalies.

Banking may not seem like a Government problem, many operators are in limbo with their banks but loans will have to be paid at some stage. It is likely that the government will have to act as an honest broker in this process. Early indications are that the banks have been helpful but if that assistance is to be assured, it needs to be regularised.

Aidan Flynn, General Manager of the Freight Transport Association Ireland (FTAI) reported that what the industry needs are grants, not loans. He said while the bus and coach industry must innovate to survive, they cannot do it alone, Government help will be required. Tourism and by extension, the passenger transport industry has been decimated. In a submission to Government, the FTAI has made some specific recommendations. What about future regulation for vehicle standards…. can the industry afford them? Manufacturers have some suggestions and comments about this matter. Belgian manufacturer VDL made an interesting point; ambitious plans to improve environmental and safety features on new coaches will add cost to new equipment, while the current stock, new and second hand, continues to devalue.

Can this be afforded? The solution, VDL suggests, is a litt le flexibility on the timing of the new legislation and regulations. Using the same argument, Lydia Lecorre at Iveco Bus said that the banning of diesel (Euro 6) Text: Sean Murtagh - sean@fleet.ie

from European city centres should be put on hold until a recovery from the crisis is in sight and companies can invest with confidence.

Polish Manufacturer, Solaris Bus & Coach, availing of an initiative by the industry in Poland, has taken its situation directly to the European Union (EU) for help. Agata Barnas, team leader for the e-mobility division of the company and communications stated that the company wants the EU to include the passenger transport sector in the recovery plan for Europe.

Tourism is a substantial part of the Irish economy. A key driver in the claw-back of the tourism market will be the recovery of the airline industry and maintaining critical routes and connectivity. Certainly for the size and importance of air connectivity to Ireland, the Government, similar to its treatment of the coach sector, has been careless at best, maybe even reckless. Ireland has always been an important player in aviation.

Is there anything positive we can take from the Covid 19 crisis?

When speaking to people in the bus and coach sector about the effect of the Coronavirus, the only positive thing mentioned was the extra time they spent with their families.

Some people answered with two words, “nothing positive” however. Wim Chatrou, now a bus and coach industry consultant from Belgium having spent many years in the sector, said that if there are positives they may only become clear in the future. “Until we have a point where we can say the virus is over, it is difficult to have a starting point for the recovery,” he added. An interesting point made by Bob Elliott , Pelican UK, was that “We will never underestimate a virus again”.

But there may be some reasons to be positive, even though they bring challenges. Inge Buytaert of Busworld, Belgium is assured that transport by bus will always exist. “Before the virus, we were trying to discourage car ownership and reduce flying, we must continue to encourage this mode switch, it is more environmentally friendly,” she stressed.

?

During a time of crisis trade associations take centre stage, with their voluntary members on the front line representing the sectors’ case to Government and its agencies.

Both the CTTC and the FTAI were to the forefront here. In particular the CTTC, through its Executive, acted quickly to get some measures in place. An early win was the continued payment of school bus fees during Lockdown and speedy results from early engagement with the banks. Those operators that got these benefits without paying membership to any association should now consider writing a cheque. They owe it to these trade associations and should pay up, it is the decent thing to do.

As mentioned earlier, Covid-19 has affected people in different ways both personally and professionally, and will for a time to come. During the Summer, in a series of webinars organised by Busworld, a selection of operators from around the world described their problems and how they are dealing with them. During one of these webinars, a Canadian operator told of how he organised counselling for his staff, as one of the company’s drivers had died due to Covid19, a moving and sobering thought. Later, an operator from India described how he was trying to organise food parcels for his workers, because the company could not afford to pay them and there was no Government support. Quite a different scenario on moving from one continent to another, but similarly sobering. It is likely most of us in Ireland face problems closer on the scale to the Canadian operator than his Indian counterpart. Mercifully, everyone’s problems are different. It may have become a cliché now, but please ‘Stay Safe’. www.fleet.ie

72 | TRIBUTES

TRIBUTES Ivan Stjernq: The Grand Old Man of Danish Truck & Bus journalism

Former Danish truck and bus journalist, automotive consultant, service inspector, appraiser and more, Ivan Stjernqvist, died on Monday July 27 after a long illness at the age of 82. For more than 60 years Ivan worked with trucks, buses, coaches, engines and vehicle technology in all shapes and sizes.

In 1959 he graduated as a mechanic at Mercedes-Benz in Odense, and since then his great interest in and understanding of vehicle technology characterised his highly Doug Jack - Global bus and coach industry loses an ‘icon’

D

uring 2020, the road transport and passenger carriage industries lost some esteemed journalists and consultants who gave many decades of dedicated service to the sectors. Here we pay tribute to:-

respected career in the Danish truck and bus industry. After working as a mechanic for a few years he was granted an internship in 1961 at Mercedes-Benz in Germany.

Returning to Denmark, he then became a service inspector, truck salesman and regional manager for the privately owned Danish Mercedes-Benz importer BohnstedtPetersen A/S.

journalist. Soon Ivan was invited to join the “International Truck of the Year” jury representing Denmark. In parallel Ivan also wrote about coaches, buses and bus technology for Danske Busvognmænd (Danish Bus Operators Association) and thus also represented Denmark in the international “Bus & Coach of the Year” jury.

In 1970, his career took him to Scania dealer Scanva Diesel A/S, where he became sales manager for the Copenhagen area.

In parallel, Ivan was authorised by D.A.F. (Danish Automobile Dealers Association) as an appraiser and consultant in both technical and commercial matters. In 1981, Ivan moved to Volvo dealer Jørgen Nielsen A/S in Ringsted and Slagelse as sales manager for both cars and trucks.

Ivan was a very sociable and well-liked gentleman throughout the industry, both in Denmark and abroad. For many years he contributed to Danske Busvognmænd’s magazine “Busmagasinet” with high quality technical articles until 2016 when he resigned from the international “Bus & Coach of the Year” jury. Since 2001, Ivan was associated with the leading Danish truck magazine Lastbil Magasinet as technical editor, a position he held until 2018, when he officially retired as a truck journalist.

In 1984, he established himself as an independent appraiser and technical consultant and also took up writing for various Scandinavian trade magazines in the truck and bus industry including Danske Vognmænd (Danish Truck Hauliers Association). Th is was the starting point of a more than 35 year long career as a reputed and respected truck and bus unrivalled by many. As news of his passing spread, one word kept recurring in the online tributes - ‘icon’.

Having graduated from Edinburgh University with a degree in Scots’ Law, he joined Leyland Motors in 1966. After practical training on the shop floor in various departments, he became Legal Advisor of British Leyland Truck & Bus Division on its formation in 1968 and Company Secretary in 1971. An enthusiastic traveller, he became Export Sales Manager in 1975.

Doug Jack, the widely respected bus and coach industry consultant, has died aged 78. He passed away peacefully in the early hours of Wednesday, September 2 after a short illness.

Doug subsequently became Sales Marketing Director for Duple Coach Builders where he introduced a more modern range of products.

As Managing Director for Salvador Caetano (UK), he later established a UK subsidiary for the Portuguese bodybuilder.

Doug’s passion for the bus and coach industry began at an early age and remained with him throughout his life. He was a familiar face at bus and coach exhibitions all around the world and his knowledge was considered

Having gained a wide and almost unique experience in the bus and coach industry, Doug recognised the need for a specialist consultancy to advise and assist the manufacturing industry. Transport

FLEETBUS&COACH | Winter 2020

Ivan lived for many years and until his death in Frederikssund, Zealand. He leaves behind three children from a previous marriage and several grandchildren as well as his wife Annemette.

Rasmus Haargaard

Resources International (TR I) was established in 1986.

He also found time to write the comprehensive history of Leyland Motors. Published in 1977, ‘The Leyland Bus’ is a magnificent illustrated work, as comprehensive and international as Leyland itself. Doug was also a regular contributor to industry journals, including Bus & Coach Buyer in the UK and BUSRide in the USA. Luc Glorieux, founder of Busworld, paid tribute to Doug: “Doug was one of the finest spirits I ever met and he certainly was one of the greatest specialists about coaches and buses worldwide. Each time I was in need of advice, he was there for me, ready and offering the good and right counsel. I will always remember him as a great friend.”

Doug is survived by his two sons, Robert (a transport journalist and publisher) and James (international business).

Sean Murtagh

TRIBUTES | 73 Robin ‘Rob’ Orchard (12 August 1942 – 2 October 2020) Rob Orchard, part of the Bus & Coach Buyer magazine family for close to two decades, died peacefully at the age of 78 after a short illness. Born and raised with his two brothers in South Norwood, Croydon , he subsequently lived in Larkfield, Kent. His first job was a trainee writer for Model Engineer publication.

He met his fi rst wife, Marion, when they were at school and they later had three children, Louise (Porter), Clare (Hannett) and David.

In the early 1960s he joined AEC, then still a major manufacturer churning out products including Routemasters for London Transport, where he was employed on the AEC Journal. When AEC became part of British Leyland, in 1966 the couple moved north to Chorley, where Rob worked for British Leyland, rising to the position of Advertising & Sales Promotions Manager.

Among the projects he handled was the launch of the Leyland Tiger chassis in 1981, Anders Karlsson – A true jolly gentleman

Anders Karlsson, Svensk Åkeritidning's editor-in-chief for many years died suddenly at his home near Linkoping, Sweden. Aged 50, Anders served on the International Bus/ Coach and International Van of the Year

an epic event that saw operators flown to Gibraltar and Morocco.

While at Leyland, Rob met and fell in love with Sheila, subsequently marrying her in March 1981. When he left Leyland in 1984 they established Apple Associates together, helping to organise shows and events as well as other marketing activities. Th roughout the 1990s this included major bus and coach shows at Donington, Telford and the NEC (Birmingham).

Rob was a train enthusiast, and with Sheila bought Litt le Salkeld station on the Settle to Carlisle line which they set about turning into such an impressive dwelling that it was featured in several lifestyle magazines.

Unfortunately, a failed exhibition in Russia left Apple Associates fi nancially exposed, the station had to be sold and the business folded.

They moved to the pretty village of Melmerby near Penrith where Sheila became a Local Councillor in 2007. Rob spent a period driving for Stagecoach, which he didn’t enjoy much, and then applied for a journalist position with Bus & Coach Buyer. He had originally agreed to relocate to Lincolnshire, but this never came about despite the impracticalities of an office over 200 miles from home via a route that involved traversing the A66.

(IVOTY) & International Pick-up (IPUA) juries for many decades. He was also a prominent member of the International Forklift & Interlogistics Jury (IFOY).

His knowledge of the road and passenger transport industries was unique - he knew all the players involved from top executives to drivers of commercial vehicles. Appreciated by everyone - employees and colleagues in the industry - no one had a bad word to say about Anders.

Judging by the extensive number of tributes expressed (and featured on IVOTY’s website – www.van-of-the-year.com) by the commercial vehicle industry and fellow jury members, the loss of Anders is great - not only as a professional but also as a person - a kind, jolly gentleman who always had time to listen - whether it was a job or private discussions.

He soon became an integral part of the team. Although capable of any feature assignment, Rob made covering minibuses and midibuses his specialism along with the Northern Irish market and compiling an annual review for the Christmas issue.

In more recent years his role had reduced and became of a freelance nature, but he continued to contribute regularly and always joined the team at trade shows.

He had a 17 year association with the Northern Ireland Independent Coach Operators Association (NIICOA) through its incarnations as CPT NI, FPTNI and now Bus & Coach NI. Initially recruited by Karen McGill to act as the adjudicator and sole judge for the Annual Gala Dinner and Awards, he visited the country regularly to see operators and suppliers and keep abreast of developments. Karen said of Rob: ‘He was well trusted and a great friend. He was a good champion for us. He grew up with us and gave us great support.’

Following Sheila’s death in November 2017, Rob stood for her former seat in the Hartside Ward for Eden District Council and won it in February 2018, continuing in the role to the end. Always keen to be involved in community issues, Rob had long worked with Fellrunner, the pioneering Penrith based community bus organisation which celebrated its 40th anniversary last year. He drove for them and was writing their history at the time of his death.

Stuart Jones He successfully organised the IPUA Test Trails in his homeland last year. As well as being Svensk Åkeritidning’s editor-inchief, Anders was also a successful novelist, conference organiser and moderator. In a touching tribute to a dear colleague and friend Carsten Tiener (Denmark) and shared by all said: “I am so sad about the sudden death of my good friend Anders. We often shared the test-vehicles all over the world – or a nightcap together at the bar in Lisbon, Rome, Shanghai or Atlanta. We remember the fantastic job he did at our Pick-up 4×4 test last year in Uppsala and the great efforts he made at the Swedish Elmia truck show in Jönköping. I can’t understand it, I will no longer hear his joyful laughter. I really miss him. My thoughts go to his family. Anders – Rest in Peace. Your old friend," Carsten.

Jarlath Sweeney

www.fleet.ie

74 | PIN PICS

FC Cologne scores ore high with unique Setra Bus

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erman Bundesliga club FC Cologne has put its trust in the Setra brand for its new team coach. Transporting players and support crew in comfort and safety of the highest possible standard is this S 516 HDH. It features 30 touring coach seats with refined leather covers and electrically adjustable leg rests and tray tables. At the rear of the bus, players can get comfortable around two fold-away tables. The Setra TopClass touring coach is also equipped with the TopAir air conditioning system, a special area featuring a fully automatic coffee machine, four 19-inch screens and a sound system with four subwoofers.

A comprehensive package of driver assistance systems ensures the highest possible level of safety in the bus which is used to bring players, trainers and support staff of the

Bundesliga club to away games in an environmentally friendly manner thanks to its Euro 6d engine. Among the systems are Active Brake Assist ABA 4, which warns within milliseconds of a potential collision with moving pedestrians and automatically initiates partial braking if necessary.

Sporting a unique and appropriate registration plate, “K-FC 1”, there is also an image of the team’s mascot, Hennes the

goat, on the bus, while the red Setra also features a projector which relays the team’s logo onto the ground when parked in front of the stadium. In addition and in keeping with the team’s motto “Zesamme sin mer FC” (literally: Together we are FC), the livery features the names of the 6,000 seasonticket holders who waived the refund of their tickets during the Coronavirus crisis.

Karsan is establishing an EV Laboratory

A

provider of modern urban transport solutions for more than half a century, Turkish manufacturer Karsan is about to establish a laboratory dedicated to electric mobility as part of its efforts to contribute to vocational training in the automotive industry.

Karsan executives have signed a “Protocol of Collaboration in Vocational and Technical Training” with Bursa Governorate and Bursa Provincial Directorate of National Education. During the signing ceremony, Karsan CEO Okan Baş stated: “Th is is among our most exciting and merriest days, as we are now able to share our experience in the field of electric vehicles with our young friends, who are the skilled professionals of the future. We believe that every step, taken together, will create added value for our industry. The protocol embodies the collaboration for the purposes of establishing the ‘Karsan Technology Laboratory for Electric Vehicles’ and training the qualified human resources required.”

Karsan will enter new collaborations for the purposes of gender equality, better employment and education opportunities. A total of 20 students will be selected from 10th grades of vocational and technical Anatolian high schools for the project and at least 50% of these students are planned to be female, where the purpose is to set a precedent for

FLEETBUS&COACH | Winter 2020

contributions to women’s employment. The collaboration is also very important in that the students, who will study at and graduate from the Karsan Technology Laboratory for Electric Vehicles, will become individuals who will create added value in the future for the industry and for new technologies.

The protocol also envisages designing of study fields in schools in collaboration with industry professionals and supporting the programme’s graduates in their careers.

Celebrating its 54th anniversary this year in the Turkish automotive industry, Karsan manufactures its own vehicles as well as parts for the world’s prominent brands in the commercial vehicles sector at its modern facilities. The company has been engaged in commercial vehicle production since 1981, and its factory in Hasanağa in Bursa has the capacity to manufacture up to 19,870 vehicles a year on a single shift . The Hasanağa factory is a flexible installation which can manufacture all kinds of vehicles from passenger cars and heavy trucks to minivans and buses. It is located 30 km from Bursa city centre and has been established on an area of 207,000 sqm, 91,000 sqm of which is closed space.

Karsan has been the only independent multibrand vehicle manufacturer in Turkey for more than 50 years and the next phase for the company, powered and enabled by its business partners and licensers, is to develop

bespoke versions of new and existing vehicles in order to extend its presence to all segments of cargo and passenger transportation.

Working to “develop innovative products and services from the idea to the market” and to cater to every market segment, Karsan primarily aims to strengthen its Main Manufacturer/OEM business line. Karsan manages its whole automotive value chain from R&D and manufacturing to marketing, sales and after sales activities.

Currently the company manufactures the new H350 light commercial vehicles for Hyundai Motor Company (HMC), 10-1218 m buses for Menarinibus and its own Jest, Atak and Star models. It also produces fully electric vehicles, namely its muchcelebrated Jest Electric and Atak Electric line, in partnership with BMW. Besides vehicle manufacturing, Karsan also provides a range of industrial services in its Organized Industrial Zone factory.

Text: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie

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