Australasian Bus & Coach 405 May 2021

ABC

AUSTRALASIAN BUS & COACH

ISSUE 405 May 2021 $5.95 inc GST

HYDROGEN-DIESEL LANDMARK TRANSDEV NZ TRIAL KINETIC-SKYBUS BUYS ICONIC TASSIE REDLINE SEALINK ACQUIRES GO WEST WA

CELL STRUCTURE NZ’S FIRST HYDROGEN FUEL-CELL CITY BUS GETS AUCKLAND ROUTE DUTY

operator: crown coaches, vic driven: audace 1050 guide: bus seating

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contents ISSUE 405 MAY 2021

08 in the know

6. editorial | ignition Things are crazier than usual. Our industry cracks on amid vaccines, blood clots, reactions and death. Editor Cotter ponders...

8. news | the front line We’ve gathered up all the key, hardhitting Australasian and international bus and coach news for you, to keep you in the loop.

20. column | bic

WHY WE DO THE THINGS WE DO? As we near a federal election it is timely we give a ‘nod’ to the importance of the advocacy work undertaken for the bus and coach industry.

In focus

Bustech Group and local Tasmanian company Elphinstone has supplied operator Metro Tasmania with its 100th bus – the milestone coming from a partnership spanning three years and creating local employment opportunities and lasting economic benefits for Tasmania.

22. In focus | bustech group

METRO TASMANIA RECEIVES 100TH BUSTECH GROUP BUS

24. In focus | fantastic aussie tours

STALWART BLUE MOUNTAINS BUS DRIVERS RETIRE The responsibility of driving a 20-tonne bus; negotiating the steep Victoria Pass in the Blue Mountains and happy tourists are just some of the things three retired Fantastic Aussie Tours drivers miss after parking their buses for the last time.

26. In focus | level crossings

BUS-TRAIN INCIDENT PUTS SPOTLIGHT ON ‘LEVEL CROSSINGS’

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Yellow box marking and freight train usage while rail-replacement work is underway were just some of issues highlighted via a recent government report analysing an incident where a train struck a coach that partially stopped on a level crossing.

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EDITORIAL Editor: Fabian Cotter ph: 0451 194 600 e-mail: Fabian.Cotter@aremedia.com.au Technical Writer: Paul Aldridge

PRODUCTION

FOLLOW US ONLINE AT:

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Group Sales Manager – Transport: Peter Gatti ph: 0437 895 600 e-mail: Peter.Gatti@aremedia.com.au VIC Sales: Matt Alexander ph: 00413 599 669 e-mail: Matt.Alexander@aremedia.com.au QLD Sales: Hollie Tinker ph: 0466 466 945 e-mail: Hollie.Tinker@aremedia.com.au SA/WA Sales: Nick Lenthall mobile: 0439 485 835 e-mail: Nick.Lenthall@aremedia.com.au

NSW Sales: Con Zarocostas mobile: 04357 594 238 e-mail: Con.Zarocostas@aremedia.com.au

SUBSCRIPTIONS

28. In focus | bus driver training

MOSCOW TRANSPORT ‘UNIVERSITY’ OPENS

Touted as a ‘new attitude’ to the training of future specialists, the Corporate University of Moscow Transport was opened recently.

30. coverstory | nz hydrogen city bus

TRANSVISION VAMP

In an exciting first for New Zealand, a two-year trial of a hydrogen fuel-cell city bus has begun in Auckland, using a vehicle designed and manufactured in the country. With plans to transition the whole bus fleet to low emission technology by 2040, this is an important part of the journey towards achieving this goal. Fabian Cotter writes.

drive. With smart European looks and a high level of flexibility, this is a bus specifically designed for Australia’s variety of conditions. Paul Aldridge gave it a go.

52. supply lines | bus seating Check out our guide to some of the best seating suppliers in the market.

Departments

58. bus marketplace | classifieds

FOR SALE! There’s hundreds of great vehicles and services listed here from some of the leading bus and coach companies on the planet. Have a look around and see what you might find in there!

36. operator | crown coaches

CROWNING ACHIEVEMENT Melbourne’s Crown Coaches has chosen to bolster its fleet with the new generation Fuso Rosa. The new Rosa gives a lesson in advanced safety, performance and comfort, while helping the business stay on the road to carbon neutrality. Ricky French reports.

64. factory facts | bus deliveries

MONTHLY RESULTS We know you love them and so we have the latest bus and coach supplier sales data collected and recorded for you to sink your teeth into. To know who is who and who’s done what simply check it out!

44. test drive | audace 1050

68. pictorial | qbic gold coast

The new Marcopolo Audace 1050 provides affordable luxury that can be tailored to an operator’s needs as well as a predictable and dependable

It was touch-and-go for many with the Gold Coast named a hotspot, but QBIC 2021kicked off in style for the longawaited gathering.

NEW LOOK, NEW ATTITUDE

GOOD AS GOLD

www.magshop.com.au e-mail: magshop@magshop.com.au ph: 1300 461 528 between 8am – 6pm (EST) Mon – Fri mail: Magshop, GPO Box 5252, Sydney, NSW, 2001 Annual subscription rates (12 issues): Australia: $89* NZ: $A100.05 Overseas: $A122.50 (Australian air-mail only) *price includes GST

EXECUTIVE GROUP Are Media Automotive CEO: Andrew Beecher GM – Industry: Graham Gardiner Group Finance Manager: Cain Murphy Commercial Director: Matt Rice Digital Director: Tim Kenington Operations Manager: Regina Fellner People & Culture Manager: Nicola Ramsay

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ISSN 1324-8634 Member: Circulations Audit Board

Circulation 3,315

CIRCULATIONS AUDIT BOARD

(CAB Audit, September 2020)

Largest circulating bus and coach magazine in Australasia CIRCULATIONS AUDIT BOARD

DISTRIBUTION Distribution within Australia and New Zealand and beyond by paid subscription to the owners and managers of: • route buses • government bus operations • school buses • extended and day tour operations • express coaches • country and charter operations • bus and coach manufacturers • equipment suppliers • tourism attractions • railways management Notice: All material published in this magazine is published in good faith and every care is taken to accurately relay information provided to us.

Readers are advised by the publishers to ensure that all necessary devices and precautions are installed and safe working procedures adopted before the use of any equipment found or purchased through the information we provide. Further all performance criteria was provided by the representative company concerned and any dispute should be referred to them. No material may be reproduced in part or in whole without written consent from the copyright holder.

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IGNITION

FABIAN COTTER

Blood clots, Bon Bons &Fairytales How we all went from ‘some bloke ate a bat and screwed the world’ to ‘strip off underwear to get vaccinated’, I’ll never know...

T

inkering with electronics is therapeutically under-rated.

Extreme stress relief through said exploits at 4.00am while jacked up on good cheap instant decaf coffee (you’ve done the math on how many cups that needs to be, right?) comes when you have no idea what you are doing really and you’ve accidentally broken bits and there’s always leftover screws, clips or capacitors – even though you did things carefully to avoid this. Good times.

This would explain why I never really get to watch much TV. Yes, there are other TVs I suppose can be switched on and work just fine, but I like the perverse sense of achievement watching stuff after I’ve hopefully fixed (read: destroyed) really big and expensive ones. This, or course, doesn’t happen very often – the fixing, that is – but when it does, let me tells ya, there ain’t ‘no binging like show binging, like no binging I know’.

Anyway, lots of soldering irons, new circuit boards and early morning swearing later, I was ‘back in the game’ on a big 3D one with the news on – because, hey, if you are going to do news, which is invariably bad news, I say do it in 3D, right?

Or at least just wear dark glasses and sit reeeeealy close to the screen – same thing (disclaimer: don’t try that at home, kids!). ;) So what was on? Splashed across every channel these days is everything to do with Covid and vaccines and outbreaks and tests and … now a new one: adverse reactions. Blood clots? Ew! Clots just sounds all kinds of bad to me. I mean, that word … ‘clotted’. I see ‘clotted cream’ in the supermarket, all big and fluffy and thick stuck on top of a yummy scone in the pictures, but the ‘blood’ version? Er … no thanks. I’m on a diet and fat enough as it is.

But, seriously, worse is that news reports confirm people are dying from such reactions to the vaccines sadly, which is terrible for their families and loved ones to deal with unexpectedly. Play Russian roulette with the virus or Russian roulette with the vaccines? Gee, tough call – such crappy times we live in. And, given the type of luck I have with those instant scratch lottery cards or the bloody pokies, I’m not feeling either of them, quite frankly. Hmm…

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So, telly off. But not before some US talk show mentioned laws and ‘Acts’ implemented in 2016 (?) by an Aussie state government for ‘Sars-Cov2’ vaccines and ‘poisons’ (those words, not 2003’s Cov1), and then mentioned something about ‘Public Health Act – Section 158’, which says governments can take all sorts of bodily samples from you and even forcibly remove your underwear to administer you with a vaccine, technically (er … which I thought was supposed to just go into your arm?)

Gees, so how does that work?

“Hey, I believe you look a little under the weather even if you feel fine. We are going to vaccinate you. But first … we need to check your ‘you-know-what’!”

Feel free to Google this. It’s all there.

Bring back the 1970s ‘Life. Be in it’ television ads, I say. Or just turn of the ‘teev’ and book a coach trip somewhere nice.

INSIDE THIS ISSUE Up front, in issue 405, we look at NZ’s first hydrogen fuel-cell city bus that’s undergoing trials soon on the streets of Auckland. Made by local bus company Global Bus Ventures, which in itself is another first for that company, the three-axle 13.5-metre long fuel-cell bus’ results will be closely monitored by many an Australasian bus operator, whom are in turn assessing what types of low-to-zero emissions buses will comprise their fleets.

It’s good to see operators having the courage and willingness to trial a range of EV technologies in the quest to meet mandated carbon emission requirements, wherever they may be based around the world. Check that one out on pages 30–35.

In terms of operator profiles, we visit Melbourne’s Crown Coaches, which takes its valued school-run business segment very seriously and thus prides safety and innovation at the top of its list. Its recent acquisition of a slew of new Fuso Rosa minibuses was a big occasion for the team, given how much input they had shared with supplier Daimler about what their previous model Rosas had taught them.

In refining the product for localised use, such measures will no doubt be to the benefit of many other operators. And in the hotly contested ‘small bus’ market, we’ll be

testing an emerging rival for it soon. Read more on pages 36–42.

Speaking of test drives, we’ve got chief bus tester Paul Aldridge working overtime, getting behind the wheel of as many new buses as he can before the next inevitable lockdown or inter-state kerfuffle takes place. This time, he’s out and about in a new Marcopolo Audace 1050 luxury coach, which shares the good bits of the previous model but now with key exterior and interior updates, particularly for our localised market.

With its versatility a major selling point, the Aussie mining-resources sector is now also a targeted field for it given its success in similar working conditions in Chile, says Volgren parent Marcopolo. Peruse that one on pages 44–50.

SECTION RETURN In other areas, we focus the spotlight on Bustech Group’s 100th bus to Metro Tasmania, investigate the issue of level crossing accidents involving buses and coaches, check out some cool tech Moscow bus drivers are using, plus bid adieu to some retiring NSW Blue Mountains tourist double-decker ‘pilots’.

Then we take a cheeky quick squiz at some bus seating suppliers, plus, in perhaps the most exciting move inside, we tentatively return the very popular pictorial section – this time from QBIC, 2021.

I say tentatively because if hotspots keep getting announced when various state shows are on, company policy means I doubt I can get there to take ‘snappy snaps’ (as the late Michael Apps called them, I recall), so will rely on them being supplied.

But, if we focus, we can overcome – and I’m sure they’ll be loads of people happy to send in cool high-res pics from whatever bus events they get to this year to help us out (Hey, you don’t ask, you don’t get, I always say).

Ooh, and I almost forgot. The latest April deliveries data is also in and, touching wood – and not necessarily rosewood, mahogany, or teak, but just regular old MDF or chipboard will do – the numbers this month look pretty stable, so that’s great news for the bus industry thus far.

Until the next thrilling instalment…

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17/5/21 9:49 am

NEWS

SEALINK BUYS WA BUS OPERATOR GO WEST

BUNBURY, Western Australiabased integrated transport provider Go West – established and run by venerable bus industry family the Haousts – has “agreed to a deal with potential consideration in excess of $100 million” in its sale to the Sealink Travel Group.

Go West, with lead adviser BDO, negotiated the sale of the successful, home-grown Australian bus operator best known for bus and coach transport, particularly in the mining resources field.

The operator began in 1981 with a single bus and grew to become one of Western Australia’s pre-eminent specialty providers of charter, rental and tour vehicles to the resources and public transit sectors, filling more than 500,000 seats monthly, BDO explains.

Go West’s expansion is the result of its clever uptake of cutting-edge technology – including innovative fatigue management and asset monitoring 8

“With the support of Sealink, Go West will continue to grow well into the future.” systems – and rigorous focus on top-tier resource client service throughout the years, BDO adds.

Forging close ties to the booming Western Australian resources market, Go West’s established regional infrastructure in key mining hubs – including Port Hedland, Newman and Karratha – made the family-owned company an attractive prospect for Sealink Travel Group, complementing its portfolio of world-class transit providers, BDO states.

CONTINUED GROWTH “With the support of Sealink, Go West will continue to grow well into the future,” said Go West founder and director Stan Haoust.

“As fellow operators supporting

Above: “With the support of Sealink, Go West will continue to grow well into the future,” said Go West founder and director Stan Haoust.

the resources sector, Sealink will enable Go West to continue to tackle bigger projects and, importantly, Sealink aligns with Go West’s ethos, which is ‘family spirit’, ‘frugality’, ‘adaptiveness’, ‘innovation’ and ‘safety’,” Haoust explained.

Sealink is Australia’s largest integrated transport provider, moving more than 206 million customers per year, it states.

Its holdings include Captain Cook Cruises, Sealink Rottnest Ferries and Swan Transit – largely responsible for Perth’s urban bus network.

The acquisition – valued at 5.3x normalised LTM EBITDA, confirms BDO – will see the existing management team retained,

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KINETIC ACQUIRES OPERATOR TASMANIAN REDLINE

including director David Haoust.

“Go West has valuable contract counterparties and delivers an essential service for these clients,” said Sealink Group chief executive officer Clint Feuerherdt.

“The operations of Go West were unaffected by the pandemic and continued at near 100 per cent levels throughout, keeping their communities and worksites connected,” he added.

SKYBUS’ PARENT company Kinetic, with a focus on the Apple Isle, has acquired long-standing family run bus operator Tasmanian Redline.

Tasmanian Redline Coaches (Tasmanian Redline), the largest governmentcontracted private bus operator in Tasmania, will join Kinetic’s growing bus mass transit network as it boosts its commitment to investing in the island state, the company states.

Tasmanian Redline is one of the state’s largest busing operators, providing government-contracted route and school services across Burnie, Devonport, Hobart, Launceston and Smithton, as well as charter services for major tour operators, Kinetic confirms.

The company is one of the state’s most established bus brands, having proudly operated for more than 90 years.

Last year, Tasmanian Redline launched a new premium coach transfer service, the Redline Express, connecting travellers from Hobart and Launceston directly with the Spirit of Tasmania in Devonport, Kinetic states.

Collectively, Kinetic’s mass transit platform currently encompasses more than 52 government-contracted urban, regional and school bus services and private charter services in key cities and regional centres across Australia and New Zealand, it confirms.

JOINT OPPORTUNITIES Tasmanian Redline managing director Michael Larissey says he was excited to have the support of a fast-moving and innovative mass transit team in

delivering on the transport needs of Tasmania.

“We are a proud Tasmanian business with a deep-rooted history working with the government and other important stakeholders to connect people with where they need to go, and Kinetic has a strong alignment with our vision and we are really excited by the joint opportunities ahead,” Larissey said.

EXCITED WELCOME Kinetic head of Australia, Matthew Carney, says Kinetic was excited to welcome Tasmanian Redline to its growing mass transit platform.

“Tasmanian Redline has unrivalled experience as one of the state’s preeminent transport operators and I congratulate the Larissey family and their team for their long-time commitment to supporting the state government and serving the community,” Carney said.

“Buses are an important component of Tasmania’s public transport network and tourism industry and, as the major economic precincts of Launceston and Hobart continue to grow, people will have an increasing need for regular and reliable bus services that get them to where they want to go.

“Through our Skybus operation we have enjoyed strong relationships with Hobart Airport and the Tasmanian government, and we’re excited to continue supporting our stakeholders to enhance existing bus networks while identifying opportunities to introduce innovative and sustainable transport solutions for Tasmanians and visitors alike,” he added.

THE ADVISERS BDO’s Perth mergers and acquisitions team advised Go West on all aspects of the transaction, while Sealink was advised by Gresham in Sydney. BDO predicts more mining services deals to come, it says.

“Australia’s buoyant economy and strong industry growth will see significant interest and further sales of Western Australian mining services businesses to local and international buyers,” said Todd Grover, lead BDO partner on the transaction. busnews.com.au May 2021 ABC

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NEWS

TRANSIT SYSTEMS ORDERS OZ’S FIRST HYDROGEN CITY BUSES BUS OPERATOR TRANSIT SYSTEMS has purchased the first hydrogen fuel-cell buses to service public transport contracts in Australia, the company has announced.

Sealink Travel Group CEO Clint

Feuerherdt says the two innovative buses – Foton hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles – would likely go into service by mid-year, with sources telling ABC magazine that their NSW, Victoria, SA or WA operation are to be confirmed.

“We are proudly setting the global benchmark for exploring and trialling different technologies to find and develop solutions with our key industry partners that suit the dynamic and complex operating conditions within

ADL E-BUSES FOR TRANSDEV’S HOWICK & EASTERN NEW ZEALAND bus operator Howick & Eastern, part of Transdev Australasia since late 2019, has ordered two ADL-BYD 12.6-metre e-buses from Kiwi Bus Builders bodies, ADL announced recently.

To be used on Auckland Transport (AT) services, the three-axle single-deck ADL-BYD Enviro200EV XLB buses are being built for the specific requirements of bus operation in New Zealand, allowing it to carry 78 passengers without requiring an overweight permit, ADL explains.

It uses the latest BYD iron-phosphate battery and driveline technology, with dual AC and DC plug charging adding operational flexibility, it adds.

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New Zealand is preparing to fully transition its bus fleet to zero-emission vehicles by 2035 as part of a wider set of measures intended to help meet the country’s 2050 carbon neutral target.

Howick & Eastern by Transdev general manager Sheryll Otway said: “The future for zero-emission transport in New Zealand is exciting and Howick & Eastern by Transdev is proud to be an ongoing part of this incredible journey, with the commissioning of these buses.

“None of this would be possible without the support, vision and investment of Auckland Transport.

“We are certainly looking forward to working together over the coming years as we work together on providing

zero-emissions public transport to the people of Tāmaki Makaurau.”

LOCAL JOBS Transdev New Zealand managing director Greg Pollock said: “Howick & Eastern by Transdev opted to commission ADL to build our second and third electric buses because the company’s factory is in New Zealand.

This was a logical decision for us to make, given Transdev’s commitment to New Zealand and to expanding our operations here, where we already operate metro rail and bus services in both Auckland and Wellington, as well as a transport on demand trial in Auckland,” he explained.

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the Australian public transport landscape,” he said.

Transit Systems, which is part of the Sealink Travel group, is dedicated to exploring innovative technologies, with a proud history of running the second-longest hydrogen bus trial in the world, as part of its Transport for London (TfL) operations, it explains.

Feuerherdt says the company was committed to exploring a range of products in the Zero Emissions Bus (ZEB) deployment.

“We don’t just have a willingness to adapt, but a desire to lead – and we’re proud to deliver innovative solutions to Australian streets and beyond, which broadcast a range of benefits into manufacturing and other industries,” he said.

“We are procuring and delivering these buses with the expectation and knowledge that future buses will be built here, with our partners at Foton Mobility, part of the Australian-owned True Green Mobility Group,” he added.

Above: Of the Foton hydrogen buses, Feuerherdt says both drivers and passengers reported positive experiences.

DRIVING FORWARD True Green Mobility Group CEO Luke Todd commended Transit Systems on its vision to work

“Transit Systems has delivered another first to the Australian public transport sector.” with government partners and deliver sustainable solutions to the market.

“Transit Systems has delivered another first to the Australian public transport sector, and we’re incredibly proud to partner with them and drive innovation and sustainability forward,” Todd stated.

Todd says Foton has more than 700 hydrogen buses manufactured and deployed around the world, leading the way globally with hydrogen-powered buses, and the company was excited to see hydrogen buses on the road in Australia.

“Being leaders in hydrogen development, the buses that will be deployed in Australia are of the highest quality with best-in-class Toyota fuel cells. The buses are extremely quiet, with zero tailpipe emissions,” he said.

Todd adds that they expected to have mass production

underway in Australia by early 2022, with the orders being taken now.

POSITIVE EXPERIENCES Feuerherdt says that both drivers and passengers reported positive experiences with a high level of comfort, as well as extended range capabilities compared to some battery electric options.

“We’re not just proud to bring hydrogen technology to Australia, we’re pleased to add it to our suite of products that demonstrate our understanding, expertise and commitment to a more sustainable public transport solution that suits each network partner and the local operating conditions across the globe,” he said.

Transit Systems currently operates metropolitan bus contracts in Victoria, South Australia, New South Wales, Western Australia and the Northern Territory, it confirms.

Kiwi Bus Builders managing director Richard Drummond said: “Howick & Eastern’s order underlines our plans to support up to 100 local jobs with the assembly of electric buses in partnership with ADL, as we scale-up our production to meet demand from Auckland Transport and elsewhere in New Zealand as the transformation to a zero-emissions fleet gets under way.”

New Flyer Industries (NFI)-owned Alexander Dennis Limited (ADL) general manager for NZ Tony Moore said: “We are delighted to extend our successful relationship with Howick & Eastern to clean electric buses, which have been tailored to the requirements of bus operation in this country. This would not have been possible without the close collaboration with Kiwi Bus Builders, as well as with the team at BYD Australia.”

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17/05/2021 2:11:00 PM

NEWS

TRANSDEV CELEBRATES INCLUSION COMMITMENT VIA ‘PRIDE’ E-BUS TRANDEV MELBOURNE has unveiled a Pride-themed rainbow bus to demonstrate its commitment to connecting and supporting Melbourne’s diverse communities.

Victoria’s first fully electric bus featured the special Pride-themed livery throughout May and appeared at the Midsumma Festival Pride March on Sunday, May 23, together with Transdev Melbourne employees, the company confirms.

Transdev Melbourne managing director Ian Craig said: “We are committed to delivering an inclusive, welcoming and safe bus service for all.

“At Transdev, inclusion is more than just a word, it is about respecting and appreciating people for who they are.

“We hope this bus sends a clear message to our customers, the community and our people about the value we place on diversity,” he added.

intersex (LGBTQI+) community to ‘Ride with Pride’, a slogan developed by Transdev staff in 2019 to show support for members of the LGBTQI+ community and demonstrate Transdev’s commitment to diversity, the company explains.

LGBTQI+ Transdev staff and allies participated in the annual march, which celebrates solidarity in gender and sexuality diversity in front of more than 45,000 people, it explains.

Earlier this year, Transdev’s Sydney light rail featured rainbow livery to coincide with Sydney’s annual Mardi Gras festival.

ABOUT TRANSDEV

Above: “At Transdev, inclusion is more than just a word, it is about respecting and appreciating people for who they are,” said Transdev Melbourne managing director Ian Craig.

transport plays an important part in how a city comes to life, it states. Its day-to-day work influences families, friends and future generations where they live, work and play, it adds.

In Australasia, Transdev has 5,704 people passionate about operating its 2,150 vehicles and vessels, which deliver more than 145 million customer journeys each year, it explains.

“It is about respecting and appreciating people for who they are.”

Transdev believes public

RAINBOW SIX 3 The special livery encourages members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and 12

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SYDNEY BUS INVOLVED IN FATAL CAR COLLISION A WOMAN died after a car and bus collided in Parramatta, NSW on the morning of May 1.

Officers from Parramatta Police Area Command were called to Argyle Street, near the intersection with O’Connell Street, shortly after 8.00am, after the BMW and bus collided.

The front-seat passenger in the sedan, a 46-year-old woman, was unable to be freed from the wreckage and died at the scene, police confirm.

The 54-year-old driver of the sedan and the 66-year-old bus driver were taken to nearby Westmead Hospital with minor injuries and for mandatory testing, police state.

There were no passengers on the bus at the time, the police add. The area was closed while utility workers repaired

damage to power lines caused by the crash.

The BMW driver has now been charged with dangerous driving and negligent driving, both occasioning death, and driving through a red traffic light. He has had his driver’s

licence suspended and been granted conditional bail, with a court date at Parramatta Local Court set for Wednesday, June 9.

Police have appealed for witnesses with dashcam footage of the incident to come forward.

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17/05/2021 12:54:44 PM

NEWS

REAL-TIME EMERGENCY INFO FOR BUS OPERATOR SUCCESS BUS OPERATOR Transit Systems has ensured timetable and crisis information, such as bushfire reports or health emergencies, is instantly disseminated across its national network – an Australian first for a bus operator, the company reports.

Transit systems has ensured such information reaches its huge employee base via the ‘Blink’ system – a globally recognised platform, “…for secure, private and formal engagement with employees, but offers more than real-time access to policy and procedure documents.”

To put this into context, particularly from a regional perspective, it’s remarkable because, considering it has more than 2,600 buses on the road across Australia, and 85 per cent of its workforce is ‘deskless’, employees may need to get an update, or receive important information based on location, shift or role [instantly], according to SeaLink Travel Group CEO Clint Feuerherdt.

“We were in the process of rolling out the Blink communication system prior to Covid-19, but it was an incredibly beneficial time to have it as a resource, and remains so critical to our continued operational safety,” he said.

“The essentials are all there, but what’s been truly impressive is the uptake by our team and the engagement we have seen on the platform.

“Particularly in regard to Covid-19, 14

we’ve been able to push out real-time alerts in hot-spot areas and make our team aware of health agency directives, which has meant we have significantly reduced the risk of employees going to work and potentially spreading the virus.”

being established late 2020.

Swan and Torrens Transit have 100 per cent active users, with Torrens Transit achieving nearly 1,500 comments and messages. Transit Systems Victoria already has more than 250 comments and messages since it was launched.

INTER-EMPLOYEE COMMS Team members can also chat with colleagues by posting on the feed, or connecting with other individuals across the business.

“The platform has been invaluable in connecting regional and remote teams - for education, support, learning and laughter; there’s a huge sense of camaraderie on the chats.

Blink can be used on a phone app, or via the website, and Feuerherdt says it was another element of innovation within the SeaLink Travel Group.

“We are investing heavily, not just in technology around zero-emission networks, with electric bus trials underway, the operation of hybrid vehicles and research into hydrogen capabilities, but also into technology that supports our team to best service the communities we operate in,” he said.

Nearly 100 per cent of employees across the business actively use their account, with more than 20,000 comments and messages sent in NSW since the platform launched in 2020, while Rivercity Ferries in Queensland has in excess of 2,000 messages and comments since

ABOUT SEALINK Below: Blink can be used on a phone app, or via the website, and Feuerherdt says it was another element of innovation within the SeaLink Travel Group.

SeaLink Travel Group is Australia’s largest integrated land and marine, tourism and public transport service provider with established international operations in London and Singapore, it confirms.

It is one of Australia’s most experienced and diverse multi-modal transport businesses.

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THE WOT!?!

FREEDOM RIDE

VOLGREN PERTH LYNCHPIN ENJOYS BOTH BUS AND MUSIC WORLDS IN A CAREER spanning 20 years, a Volgren Perth employee went from bus spray painter to production manager while managing to moonlight as a musician in a range of coverbands – including a John Farnham tribute band.

After John Pettit left school he undertook an apprenticeship as a painter decorator, but spent little time during the next decade plying that trade. Instead, he pursued a musical career that started in his home state of Western Australia and brought him to New South Wales playing piano and keyboard for coverbands and other groups throughout Sydney, he says.

“It was a good life,” Pettit recalled.

“There were plenty of gigs and Sydney was a great place to be a musician – but there was limited job security.”

That lack of guaranteed work, in combination with a desire to own his own home, led Pettit back to WA in the late 1990s, where he found a job as a spray painter at the WA government Railways, he explains.

In 1999, Volgren became prime contractor for the Public Transport Authority (PTA) and established a major facility in Perth. It was a moment that would change the course of Pettit’s professional life, he says.

“When Volgren set up I was working at Osborne Motor Bodies and they were actively headhunting from a number of local manufacturers and I jumped on board in January 2000, as a spray painter.”

Pettit says the first vehicle he worked on was Bus 38 and he did so with four colleagues in what was known as ‘the

paint shop’. Within six months he’d been promoted to the position of team leader and was running the shop.

Since moving into a leadership role – he’s been promoted several times since – he has felt the natural pressure that comes with being a central part of one of Australia’s most successful and long-standing bus supply agreements, he says. Pettit deals with that pressure, he says, by concentrating on his main strength.

“My biggest asset is communication. I don’t have a fabrication or engineering background, so I need to be constantly connecting with people, keeping people motivated and working through any problems,” Pettit stated.

“It’s all about knowing the right people that can do the job for you.”

This goes a good way to explaining how Petitt has become such a vital member of the Volgren team, good people-management skills only get you so far, he says; in a job such as his, results matter more than anything, he explains.

“We understand the quality and standard that PTA require and we bend over backwards to make it happen. We’ve never missed a month of deliveries – ever.

“We’ve been dealing with the PTA for more than 20 years. We enjoy a great working relationship. The rapport between the two organisations couldn’t be any better; it’s built on respect and honesty,” he said.

“If something’s not right, we understand the issue and it’s fixed immediately.”

A restored vintage Greyhound bus has been unveiled to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the Freedom Rides – a series of political protests against racial segregation in 1961.

Housed at the Alabama Historical Commission’s Freedom Rides Museum in Montgomery, itself located at the Greyhound bus station the Freedom Riders arrived at, this bus was in service when civil rights activists participated in bus rides in southern USA to protest segregation in transport facilities. “History happened here,” said Lisa D. Jones, executive director of the historical commission and the state historic preservation officer, at the ceremony.

“Preserving this place helps bring to life a critical part of the civil rights story, and the role Montgomery and the state of Alabama played in it.”

EASY RIDER

Have you managed to sit yourself down behind the wheel of a Mercedes-Benz eCitaro yet? If not, you just need to hang on until September when Bus Simulator 21 is released to bus-hungry gamers. Among the 30 officially licenced buses available in this transport simulator will be two new eCitaros: the small two-doored, 12-metre electric with two axles, and the larger threedoor, 18-metre, three-axle eCitaro G articulated.

Other bus brands include Setra, Iveco Bus, Alexander Dennis, BYD, Grande West, Blue Bird and more. Game on!

SPACE RACE

Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) in the US has launched a new website tool to help bus passengers estimate when their service will be less crowded. Named the Estimated Seat Availability Dashboard, the majority of SEPTA’s bus routes have been mapped with a colour-coded system so customers can look up the time they want to travel and the specific stop they get on at to see how busy the bus usually is and whether they are likely to get a seat. The feature will be expanded to include other transport services and integrated into SEPTA’s official app later this year. To check it out, visit: https://septa.org/ seat-availability

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NEWS

VICTORIAN REGIONAL ROAD UPGRADE AIDS V/LINE COACH ROUTES RURAL VICTORIA dairy farming town Tinamba is now a safer place to drive to and through for V/Line coach services following completion of a road overhaul via the Flexible Local Transport Solutions program, the state government reports.

Minister for roads and road safety Ben Carroll says the $150,000 upgrade had delivered a number of benefits for the local community.

The project will improve access to V/Line coach services (south-west) to Traralgon and (south-east) to Sale from Tinamba, providing stronger links to employment and education opportunities for locals, and connections to train services on the Gippsland line, according to the government.

Works have also improved pedestrian and vehicle access to local businesses, improved kerbs, line-marking, drainage and bus stops – including a new stop on the western side of the road and upgrades to the existing stop on the eastern side, it adds.

The Labor government has invested $40,000 from the Flexible Local Transport Solutions program and a further $90,000 from its 16

Building Works program, delivering improvements on Traralgon-Maffra Road through the town, it explains.

Wellington Shire Council also contributed a further $20,000 to the upgrades, it confirms.

The Flexible Local Transport Solutions program provides funding for local transport

not only provided safer access for pedestrians and vehicles in Tinamba, but also improved the overall amenity of the town,” said Carroll.

“This project has made the town centre a more attractive stopping point for passing tourists whilst also helping improve vital public transport links

“The project will improve access to V/Line coach services (south-west) to Traralgon and (south-east) to Sale.” initiatives, services, and infrastructure in regional Victoria.

The program works with local transport forums, regional partnerships, local councils, and community organisations to identify and deliver these opportunities.

SAFER ACCESS “We’ve worked with Wellington Shire Council and local businesses to deliver this upgrade that has

to employment and education opportunities for locals.”

Member for Eastern Victoria Jane Garrett said: “It is wonderful to see the positive impact this project has already had on Tinamba with improved parking upon entry into the town.”

“For locals and business owners, these improvements contribute to the town’s viability and enhance the safety for all road users,” she stated.

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SIEMENS AND YHI PARTNER IN NZ EUROPEAN global technology powerhouse Siemens has partnered with YHI Energy in New Zealand to support the country’s growing electric-charging market and launch its latest EV charging-infrastructure portfolio, the companies announced recently.

The partnership will see YHI Energy – one of New Zealand’s leading suppliers of energy products, especially in electric vehicle charging infrastructure – distribute Siemens’ state-of-the-art charging infrastructure portfolio, they confirm.

This agreement complements Siemens’ partnership with Cuthbert Stewart Limited (CSL), which distributes Siemens factory automation, process industry, electrical and drives products in New Zealand, Siemens clarifies.

The YHI announcement also

follows recent customer wins, such as the agreement to supply e-bus charging infrastructure to Go Bus, one of New Zealand’s largest bus operators.

Siemens New Zealand CEO Paul Ravlich welcomed the partnership stating: “Electrification of our transportation fleet plays a significant role in the decarbonisation of New Zealand.

To achieve this, we need the right infrastructure in place, so the access to the best-in-class technology is more accessible.”

According to the companies, YHI Energy will distribute three key products from Siemens’ portfolio: • Versicharge AC Smart Wallbox (7.2kW-22kW): a fully featured, space-efficient wallbox inclusive of smart connectivity and load management options as standard

• Sicharge CC AC22 dual-port pedestal (22kW): an attractive and robust charger with unique branding options • Sicharge D high power DC charger (160kW-300kW): an innovative DC charger enabling modular power upgrades, dynamic power allocation and up to five vehicles charged in parallel.

Above (L-R): Aaron Gillon, divisional manager, YHI Energy; Paul Ravlich, CEO Siemens New Zealand; and Chris Talbot, managing director YHI Energy.

The Bendix Ultimate 4WD Brake Upgrade Kit with advanced brake pads and rotors, braided lines and a host of ancillary items is the ultimate brake upgrade for the latest 4WD vehicles such as Ranger and Hilux.

This comprehensive kit includes specially compounded high performance CERAMIC material brake pads for increased stopping power in extreme conditions plus the latest Bendix Ultimate Rotors designed and developed specifically for Australia’s demanding conditions.

Find solutions for every brake job at www.bendix.com.au Or freecall the Bendix Brake Advice Centre on 1800 819 666 Bendix is a trademark of Garrett Advancing Motion Inc.

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NEWS

LANDMARK HYDROGEN-DIESEL BUS EMISSIONS TRIAL IN WHAT COULD PROVE the crucible in which diesel bus fleet emissions and vehicle composition are determined in future worldwide, a radical Australasian-led trial of hydrogen injected into conventional fuel could prove an unexpected turning point in the commercial vehicle industry.

In efforts to reduce its carbon footprint, Transdev Australasia – operator of Howick & Eastern Buses in Auckland and Mana Newlands Coach Services in Wellington – has committed to trial a new hydrogen fuel technology in its existing diesel bus fleet.

Transdev New Zealand chief officer and managing director Greg Pollock says trials would soon commence using the new ‘HYDI hydrogen fuel system’, which has been designed to fit a standard diesel bus, adding hydrogen gas to a diesel engine.

“A HYDI hydrogen unit will soon be fitted to buses in our Wellington fleet, with the goal of testing to determine what level of reduced fuel consumption and ensuing emissions we can achieve in Wellington conditions,” Pollock said.

“Globally, transport accounts for more than 24 per cent of total CO2 emissions yearly, which is why we are exploring more electric and hydrogen fuel technologies to reduce our environmental impact and meet New Zealand government’s emissions reduction targets.”

South Australian company HYDI Hydrogen has developed the technology, Transdev confirms. HYDI’s website, states 18

its hydrogen direct injection system provides, ‘lower emissions and more power from less fuel.”

UNIVERSITY TESTING HYDI managing director John Wilson says independent testing of the HYDI Hydrogen ‘on-demand’ system at the University of South Australia had shown a reduction of up to 80 per cent in carbon particulate emissions when fitted to a diesel engine.

If this real-world trial replicates results being achieved with heavy transport in Australia, this could change or determine bus and truck operator fleet-buying trends in the immediate-to-long-term future, saving them millions in effectively ‘enforced’ new EV product purchases while ‘buying time’ for those very electro-mobility avenues of technology to be refined and enhanced, it could be argued.

SIGNIFICANT REDUCTIONS “Analysis of the exhaust gas of a public transport bus fitted with the HYDI Hydrogen system showed significant reductions in greenhouse gases, including carbon,” Wilson said.

Over a period of five months of normal operations in metropolitan Adelaide, the bus returned a 12.5 per cent reduction in fuel consumption.

HYDI enables carbon emissions to be achieved immediately with a technology that pays for itself via savings in fuel

usage, according to the company.

“While there is much attention on future fleet technologies, there is usually substantial investment and long lead times required in delivering new fleet[s], remembering that heavy vehicles, such as buses, have a life cycle of 20 years or more,” he said.

Transdev will trial the HYDI Hydrogen system in its bus operations locally in Wellington before assessing the suitability for other sites, it explained.

HOW IT WORKS When ABC magazine sought further information as regards the actual process behind the system, HYDI CEO Roger van der Lee clarified: “The technology exploits the well-known and proven electrolysis process to split hydrogen and oxygen molecules from water. This requires an electrical input, provided from the host engine’s battery and a minimal amount of distilled water.

“Hydrogen is only produced while the motor is running as an on demand system and introduced into the air intake of the engine.

“There is no hydrogen under pressure or storage thereby making the retrofit system completely safe.

“The compact size, absence of chemicals, minimal electrical input and sophisticated electronics and firmware, which enables its integration with OEM engine management systems, make HYDI unique,” he explained.

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GREYHOUND BUSES CLOSES PERMANENTLY IN CANADA EFFECTIVE MAY 13, 2021, Greyhound made the difficult decision to close all its services in Canada, following “sustained ridership declines in Ontario and Quebec”, the company announced.

With media reports the move will cost about 400 employees their jobs, the company says Greyhound Lines, Inc. (USA), a separate entity, will continue to operate cross-border express services on the following routes when the border reopens: Toronto to New York – Toronto to Buffalo – Montreal to New York – Montreal to Boston – Vancouver to Seattle.

“We deeply regret the impact this has on our staff and our customers, as well as the communities we have had the privilege of serving for many years,” Greyhound Canada senior vice president Stuart Kendrick stated.

“A full year without revenue has unfortunately made it impossible

to continue operations.”

Greyhound Canada implemented a range of cost-reduction steps during recent years, including frequency adjustments to route schedules and other efficiency measures, it states.

In 2018, after years of declining ridership and the impact of a changing and increasingly challenging transportation environment, including de-regulation and subsidised competition – such as VIA Rail and publicly-owned bus systems – the difficult decision was made to suspend service in the western part of Canada. Services continued in Ontario and Quebec, it says.

The pandemic brought a further dramatic drop of approximately 95 per cent of normal volumes before operations were fully suspended in May 2020, the bus operator confirms.

Greyhound Canada has made significant outreach efforts to provincial and federal governments for financial support for the industry,

it adds. Financial investments from governments for Canada’s inter-city bus sector have been negligible, it stated and operations are not feasible absent of financial support.

Customers holding tickets originating in Ontario or Quebec for travel within Canada after May 13, 2021, may request a refund.

Also customers with non-expired Canadian travel vouchers may request a refund of unused travel voucher funds, Greyhound Canada states.

Above: Greyhound has now stopped all services in Canada.

MCI LAUNCHES E-COACH DUO FOR NORTH AMERICA TWO NEXT-GEN battery-electric coaches now bolster NFI Group subsidiary MCI’s e-bus range, with the D45 CRT LE Charge and J4500 Charge models launched for the North American market.

In unveiling its new zero-emission commuter coach, the D45 CRT LE Charge – also with innovative and functional low-entry vestibule ‘Harge’ – comes at a time the company also launched its new D series of coaches.

Leveraging high-torque electric drive systems for operation at highway speeds

and plug-in battery charging – to fully in less than three hours – the battery-electric D45 CRT LE Charge “builds on MCI’s legacy of reliable mobility and harnesses three major innovations”, MCI states.

It exhibits design advancements of the next generation D series; introduces MCI’s innovative low-entry vestibule and integrates proven ‘Charge’ technology propulsion from New Flyer, it explains.

“With the D45 CRT LE Charge marking our fourth EV introduced in 2021, NFI is undeniably leading electrification of mass

mobility – the ZEvolution,” said Paul Soubry, president and CEO of NFI. “The new battery-electric D45 CRT LE Charge follows MCI’s introduction of the J4500 Charge, New Flyer’s Xcelsior Charge NG and ARBOC’s Equess Charge – all leveraging shared EV technology.

“Together, NFI’s market-leading portfolio is enabling scalable zero-emission deployment across North America.”

Below: MCI is now running D45 CRT LE Charge and J4500 Charge models in its fleet.

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BIC

Why we do the things we do As we near a federal election it is timely we give a ‘nod’ to the importance of the advocacy work undertaken for the bus and coach industry.

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he success of the Tasmanian Bus Association in the state election on May 1 is a recent example of consistent advocacy work netting significant commitment from the re-elected Tasmanian Liberal government to invest in more buses, more services and upgraded infrastructure.

The Tasmanian government has promised $81.5 million in new route and school buses during the next four years and more than $60 million to implement smart ticketing, bus shelter upgrades and new park/ride facilities. The quick and decisive action undertaken by TasBus to circulate an ‘election primer’ to all parliamentarians by mid-April (just two weeks after election announcement) was no doubt a winner advocacy move.

To know why we do the things we do, we need to look at why the federal government does the things it does.

Advocacy and having a strong presence in Canberra is important because it drives growth in our industry and keeps away bad regulation that will make it harder to run your business. Above all else, we do what we do to make our industry stronger and your businesses more viable in the future. The more money that gets invested in public transport, the more that people use it - and this generates more demand for your bus services and your bus products. We see this as the virtuous circle of policy for our industry.

In 1996, the BIC was initially established to provide a stronger voice for the Australian bus and coach industry in national policy making and advocacy in federal and state parliaments. Our remit was focused on road

“We do what we do to make our industry stronger and your businesses more viable in the future.” transport-related regulation, the management of public transport networks and improving safety across the heavy vehicle sector.

In 2006, our ‘foundation charter’ morphed into a national ‘moving people strategy’. The core of this strategy was to generate a multi-party approach at the federal level to address the problems affecting Australian households and businesses, such as traffic congestion, car dependency and the environmental sustainability of our transport systems.

This work paid off and, in 2008, the federal government invested more into public transport than all combined investment since the federation of Australia.

In general terms, a federal government supports public transport indirectly. Examples of this include road infrastructure (sustainable transport networks) and net20

zero emission cities (tackling congestion, new energy, ensuring a healthy population).

By 2010, our moving people strategy began to embody outcomes such as planning for and creating ‘liveable’ cities and regions, providing adequate transport options for all (socially disadvantaged and people with disabilities) and reform of road pricing (charges to better reflect the real costs associated with road travel and allocation of revenue for improved public transport services) – just to name a few!

The BIC has always argued that the federal government has a role to pay in investing in public transport infrastructure, with a view that the states and territories are responsible for the public transport provision. Getting the nuance of this argument right, at times, has been challenging.

A significant part of the BIC’s mandate is to also advocate for sensible regulation and national law on heavy-vehicle technical issues. Much of this work goes on behind the scenes and often for many years before we get the outcomes needed; it means being incorporated as a member on select government working groups to ensure the bus industry agenda is heard by all stakeholders.

The ultimate aim of our technical advocacy is to save time and money for bus businesses.

Some of the visible technical wins include increases in bus mass limits and the production of federally funded industry advisories such as the Bus Fire Mitigation Advisory, Bus Fire Emergency Evacuation Protocols and upgrading of bus door safety standards. Yet these outcomes are really only a small part of the work, as it is the things that are not seen that can have the largest effect on industry.

All vehicle regulation, standards and national laws undergo cyclic updates and or reviews in some form and a key role of the BIC is to minimise the impact and, where possible, maximise the outcomes for our industry viability.

For example, a seemingly simple change to a clause within a regulation may have a potentially massive negative impact on our industry and it is the BIC’s role to work with the regulators to assess and, where required, alter clauses to achieve the intended outcome, minimise the effect and, in some cases, maximise the outcome for industry.

In coming months we intend to provide more detailed reports on why we do the things we do.

In the meantime, readers can keep informed by subscribing to our national e-bulletin by contacting communications@bic.asn.au.

The BIC secretariat is committed to the ‘moving people’ vision.

Readers can connect with us on (02) 6247 5990, or by email to enquiries@bic.asn.au.

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BUS STOP

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IN FOCUS

BUSTECH GROUP

METRO TASMANIA RECEIVES 100TH BUSTECH GROUP BUS

Bustech Group and local Tasmanian company Elphinstone have supplied operator Metro Tasmania with its 100th bus – the milestone coming from a partnership spanning three years and creating local employment opportunities for Tasmanians.

22

T

he largest Australian-owned bus manufacturer Bustech Group and iconic Tasmanian company Elphinstone celebrated the achievement at the Elphinstone Southern Prospect plant near Wynyard, Tasmania, on Monday, April 19.

Tasmanian deputy premier, Jeremy Rockliff, congratulated all stakeholders involved in

delivering the home-grown product and announced a further $10 million investment over four years to Tasmania’s advanced manufacturing and defence industries.

“We have a skilled workforce and we want to support smalland medium-sized businesses [SMEs]. A great example of it is here today, where we celebrated the cutting of the cake of the 100th Metro bus, [from] a highly

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skilled workforce right here on the North-West Coast. And we want to build capability right across Tasmania,” affirmed Rockliff at the event.

JOB CREATION The delivery of Bustech’s 100th bus created 30 direct advanced manufacturing jobs and more than 60 indirect jobs, according to the group.

Bustech Group also engaged local suppliers to ensure a significant proportion of local content was used to build the buses for Tasmania, it states.

“Bustech Group’s first fully Tasmanian-built bus rolled off the production line in November 2017, and we are incredibly proud to be delivering our 100th bus for Tasmania,” said Christian Reynolds, Bustech Group executive director.

“This project has demonstrated the strong capacity and capability of Australian manufacturing – not only through building buses in Tasmania, but also by partnering with local SMEs and sourcing a local supply chain.

“In turn, this investment in localised manufacturing generated a number of opportunities far greater than just the local bus builds; we also integrated several suppliers into our national operations,” continued Reynolds.

MODERN, RELIABLE FLEET The $45 million project was the single biggest investment in public transport in Tasmania’s history to offer a more comfortable, accessible and environmentally friendly transport experience for Tasmanians, the group states.

“This was the first time that any Australian government-procured buses came from an Australian OEM [original equipment manufacturer]; designing, engineering and manufacturing buses in Australia with the highest level of local content,” said Bustech Group chief commercial officer Damien Brown.

All 100 XDi buses manufactured

by Bustech Group for the state feature a modern, contemporary

design with 51 seats, airconditioning and the lowestemitting diesel engines available, Bustech says. This means a smooth, comfortable and enjoyable experience for both passengers and drivers, it adds.

Elphinstone executive director Kelly Elphinstone said: “Our collaboration with Bustech Group to manufacture and deliver these state-of-the-art buses in Tasmania has given us the opportunity to develop new skills and build on our advanced manufacturing capabilities, while also securing jobs for our local workforce.”

HYBRID TECH Alongside the 100th bus delivery, Bustech Group also manufactured and delivered four hybrid electric buses for Tasmania’s Cradle Mountain in 2019.

The eco-friendly buses were the first in the state and marked a paradigm shift towards more sustainable transport solutions for Tasmania, the group explains.

Looking ahead, Bustech Group will continue to support the Tasmanian government’s commitment to net zero-emissions and work towards achieving the common goals of reliable and emission-free public transport solutions, it says.

The Tasmanian state government

We are incredibly proud to be delivering our 100th bus for Tasmania. announced a target of reducing greenhouse gas emissions to 60 per cent below 1990 levels by 2050, with the transport sector producing the highest emissions of all the sectors of the state’s economy.

Bustech Group supports the government’s commitment to the uptake of zero-emission transit solutions, as well as the continuity of local manufacturing, which significantly contributes to more sustainable, thriving and liveable communities, Bustech states.

“We know that the industry is moving away from diesel-powered transport and quickly shifting to zero-emission solutions. Bustech Group are primed to support the industry, our customers and government agencies across Australia to successfully transition to electric and hydrogen energy solutions whilst also retaining a strong focus on customer experience,” said Reynolds.

“Importantly, the roll-out of this new technology will bring additional employment opportunities and advanced manufacturing growth for Australia.”

Opposite: The delivery of Bustech’s 100th bus was celebrated at

the Elphinstone Southern Prospect plant near Wynyard, Tasmania.

Above:

Elphinstone executive director Kelly Elphinstone (far left) says the Elphinstone’s collaboration with Bustech Group gave the company the opportunity to develop new skills and secure local jobs.

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IN FOCUS

FANTASTIC AUSSIE TOURS

STALWART BLUE MOUNTAINS BUS DRIVERS RETIRE

The responsibility of driving a 20-tonne bus laden with the weight of 57 souls, their luggage and the company reputation; negotiating the steep Victoria Pass in the Blue Mountains or Jenolan Caves Rd; happy international tourists; and the feel of the road through the steering wheel – are just some of the things three retired Fantastic Aussie Tours (FAT) drivers miss after parking their buses for the last time.

A

ffectionately dubbed ‘The Retreads’, Garth Taylor, Jon Rickard and Robert Hurren were officially farewelled from the Katoomba-based tourism transport company in December 2020.

FAT operates the Blue Mountains Explorer Bus fleet of double-decker red buses around Katoomba and Leura and conducts sightseeing tours and charters around Australia.

Hurren, now 78, had been retrenched as an electrical engineer for Phillips Electrical when he joined the company in 2004.

FAT director of operations Darrell Booth said: “I think he is the only bloke we’ve ever given a bus driver’s job to that didn’t have a bus driver’s licence. But attitude is everything and we taught him how to drive a bus – and he went on to drive basically everything in our yard.”

Taylor, of Leura, always knew 2020 would be his last year driving commercial buses; he turned 80 on December 19 and must now undergo an expensive 24

heavy vehicle driving test. Unlike Rickard, whose last driving shift was in February, Taylor had two and a half days’ work since Covid pulled the brakes on the tourism transport industry, the company confirms.

He joined FAT in 2004 and drove the Explorer buses for more than 16 years after 21 years with Shell Australia in sales and marketing and then as a V8 supercar contractor.

SORELY MISSED FAT managing director Jason Cronshaw says colleagues miss The Retreads who, it seemed, had been part of the team “since the beginning of time” and all sought a second career after becoming bored in retirement.

Rickard, 77 of Linden, joined FAT in 2003 after a teaching and education administration career, ending as head science teacher at Springwood High School.

No stranger to heavy vehicles, Rickard drove steam trains at Zig Zag Railway between 1983 and 2010.

Right: Pre-COVID The Retreads, as unofficial ambassadors for the Blue Mountains, engaged with more than 100 people on each of the four Explorer buses every day. Garth Taylor plans to become more involved in car clubs during his retirement, while Jon Rickard continues as a volunteer driver trainer at Linden RFS. Robert Hurren moved to Russell Island, Queensland.

Booth said: “Anyone can drive a bus in a straight line, but when the chips are down and something happens, that’s when the skill comes into it.

“The result will either be a bus on its roof with its wheels in the air or everyone’s safe.

“If somebody does something stupid in front of you, you need to react. A professional driver weighs it all up and nails it because the people sitting behind you have got no control over their destiny. It’s in your hands.”

However, driving the bus was only half the job of a bus driver on sightseeing tours. Rickard said: “The other half is customer relations,

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keeping everyone happy and well informed.”

Taylor says he would miss the Explore Bus customers, advising tourists on where to go, what to do and where to eat.

“They come from all over the world and they’re on holidays. They’re in a great mood and want to have a good time, so it’s easy to have a good day.”

Pre-Covid The Retreads, as unofficial ambassadors for the Blue Mountains, engaged with more than 100 people on each of the four Explorer buses every day.

“One year it was me and Robert, and we were just packed – tourists were almost literally hanging out the door,” Taylor said.

“It was like that all day and we still look back on it with a smile.

“I’ll miss that camaraderie,” he said.

EVOLUTION Fantastic Aussie Tours, which had operated sightseeing tours since 1974, had grown and evolved during their time with the company, The Retreads said.

“When I started there was no air conditioning, no power steering,” Rickard explained.

“It was like a gym workout driving the Explorer buses in summertime.”

However, it would be the experience rather than the vehicles they miss.

Taylor said: “When they’re fully loaded, you really are driving by the seat of your pants because you can feel the vehicle and the road through the seat.”

Rickard added: “When you’ve got a bus fully laden with passengers and all their luggage they weigh 20 tonnes,

and you’re going down or climbing Victoria Pass or you’re coming up to some sharp corners, you’ve got to be aware of all that weight and the performance of the vehicle and the braking.

“You go around a corner and you’re aware of the transfer of weight to another wheel or the outside axle as you power out of the corner.

“It’s that I will miss.”

Taylor plans to become more involved in car clubs during his retirement, while Rickard continues as a volunteer driver trainer at Linden RFS. Hurren had already moved to Russell Island, Queensland.

Meanwhile, Cronshaw assured The Retreads they would be invited to all the FAT parties “for the rest of time”. busnews.com.au May 2021 ABC

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18/05/2021 10:51:42 AM

IN FOCUS

LEVEL CROSSINGS

BUS-TRAIN INCIDENT PUTS SPOTLIGHT ON ‘LEVEL CROSSINGS’ Yellow box marking and freight train usage while rail-replacement work is underway were just some of issues highlighted via a recent government report analysing an incident where a coach was struck after stopping foul of tracks on a level crossing in Geelong, Victoria, last year.

A

Above: The train hit the front left of the coach after the driver stopped the coach partially on the level crossing.

Opposite: The investigation notes the acute roadto-rail track angle and the position of the left-front corner of the bus relative to the track may have influenced the driver’s perception of the crossing.

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passenger coach was struck by a freight train after it stopped foul of a Geelong level crossing when the coach driver stopped on the crossing after boom gate warning lights activated, despite having adequate time to clear the crossing, a recent transport safety investigation notes.

The coach, with a driver and single passenger on-board, was operating a rail-replacement service from Melbourne to Waurn Ponds in Geelong on the morning of April 2, 2020, and had just entered the Station Street level crossing when the crossing warning system activated in response to an approaching freight train. The driver of the coach immediately applied the brakes and the coach stopped within the crossing, foul of the first track, it explains.

When the crew of the freight train observed the coach, the locomotive driver made an emergency brake application

while the co-driver began to sound the horn. The coach driver heard the train horn and attempted, unsuccessfully, to reverse the coach off the crossing, it says.

The train was unable to stop and impacted the front-left corner of the coach. The coach driver and passenger were injured in the collision and

Safety confirmed the coach had stopped past the boom barrier with the front-left corner of the coach foul of the track.

The acute road-to-rail track angle and the position of the left-front corner of the bus relative to the track may have influenced the driver’s perception of the crossing, the investigation notes.

Motorists need to be aware that in situations where passenger train services are not operating, freight trains may be operating. were taken to hospital. The coach driver was released from hospital the same day, and the passenger the next day, it states.

The subsequent investigation into the incident, conducted on behalf of the ATSB by Victoria’s chief investigator Transport

TRAINS STILL RUNNING “Had the driver not stopped the coach when the crossing warning system activated, there was adequate time to complete the crossing prior to the arrival of the freight train,” said chief investigator Chris McKeown.

In an interview with transport

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safety investigators, the driver indicated that he did not continue over the crossing as he did not want to be reported for crossing with the bells ringing.

Further, the driver indicated that he was surprised when the crossing was activated, as they were under the impression that V/Line trains were not running because they were driving a train replacement service, the report highlights.

When the coach driver was alerted to the train’s presence by the train horn, the driver recalled attempting to reverse the coach, but reported that they had forgotten to release the park brake.

PREVIOUS OCCURENCES “Motorists need to be aware that in situations where passenger train services are not operating, freight trains may be operating, and normal safety precautions should be observed,” stated McKeown.

Although probably not directly related to this incident, in the previous six years, there had been

KEY POINTS • Coach stopped foul of tracks on level crossing after crossing protection warnings began operating • Coach stopped despite having adequate time to clear the crossing • The train was unable to stop and impacted the front-left corner of the coach

20 occurrences of the boom barrier strikes by road vehicles on the inside lane of the Station Street approach.

This suggests that the crossing configuration is probably conducive to driver error on that approach, and that additional risk controls may be warranted, McKeown notes.

“While there were no identified queuing issues at the crossing that may have triggered a requirement to applying yellow box markings, such markings may have assisted the driver’s identification of the crossing limits and the hazardous zone.”

A copy of the final report can be found at: www.atsb.gov.au/publications/ investigation_reports/2020/rair/ ro-2020-004/ busnews.com.au May 2021 ABC

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18/05/2021 12:03:34 PM

IN FOCUS

BUS DRIVER TRAINING

MOSCOW TRANSPORT ‘UNIVERSITY’ OPENS Touted as a ‘new attitude’ to the training of future specialists, the Corporate University of Moscow Transport – for education of “future specialists”, continued professional development of existing staff, and the implementation of common standards for all employers of Moscow Transport – opened recently.

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ith the metro and tram sections merged into a single rail network, recently, the deputy mayor of Moscow and head of the department of transport and road infrastructure, Maksim Liksutov, noted it has had “a positive impact on the situation of transport in the city”.

“This experience proved that working together and sharing knowledge gives the best results, so we decided to create a common system of education for employees of the Transport Complex.

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“We use the latest techniques and technologies in the teaching. Unique transport simulators were produced specially for Moscow and educational programs are developed by teachers with many years of experience,” he said.

SKILLS IMPROVEMENT Buses, electric buses, trams and metro drivers study at the new university.

Employees can improve their skills and receive additional professional education, Moscow Transport (MT) explains.

The Corporate University of Moscow Transport also includes a ‘Career Guidance

Center’. Here, anyone can discover the history and work of Moscow metro, visit the driver’s cabin, see archive photos, try interactive simulators and much more, it states.

The ‘Qualification Assessment Center’ is also an integral part of the new university.

MT explains that passengers need to be sure they are accompanied by real professionals, which is why a system for evaluating the qualifications of personnel and a system for evaluating them from a psychological point of view has been developed.

The ‘Human Resources Development Center’ was conceived to select and award

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We decided to create a common system of education for employees of the Transport Complex.

the most talented employees. They will be provided with additional assistance in training and promotion of their careers, it says.

The ‘Local Technical Training Center’ is also a unique part of the new university. Drivers will be shown how to act in emergency situations, where immediate response and passenger safety is a top priority, it confirms.

• Passenger Mobility Center: in the metro and on the ground this operates successfully, MT reports.

Specialists accompany passengers with limited mobility along their entire route • Braille is used on metro turnstiles and external speakers placed in the ground announce the number and route of the bus for visually impaired people • Ground transport is designed as being low-floor without steps and with ramps for passengers

in wheelchairs or parents with children • Special places for strollers and passengers with guide dogs have been implemented in buses, as well as buttons for communication with the driver for passengers with disabilities.

Ensuring the active participation of disabled people in society through convenient transport accessibility is one of the most important goals of the development of the city of Moscow, MT confirms.

Opposite: Employees can improve their skills and receive additional professional education, Moscow Transport explains.

Above: Ensuring the active participation of disabled people in society through convenient transport accessibility is a priority.

Below: A Career Guidance Center allows visitors to discover the history and work of Moscow metro, visit the driver’s cabin, see archive photos and try interactive simulators.

SPECIAL NEEDS Accessible public transport improves the quality of life of passengers with special needs daily, MT highlights.

The motto of the International Day of Disabled Persons is inclusive and sustainable in a post-pandemic world, with respect for the needs of persons with disabilities, it says.

“Our city has become much more adapted to the life of people with limited mobility in last years,” and an “inclusive environment” in urban transport plays a major role, MT explains.

Highlights include: busnews.com.au May 2021 ABC

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18/05/2021 12:02:25 PM

COVERSTORY

NZ HYDROGEN CITY BUS

TRANSVISION VAMP

O

ne could imagine the stress and disappointment of the little kid – presumably – on some ‘far, far away’ farm who dropped that first basket of eggs one morning when racing from the chicken pen out in the cold back into the warmth of home, one winter’s morning, aeons ago.

If it were any consolation to them, mankind got one of its iconically famous adages out of it that has probably

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steered the decision-making process of billions of people the world over in myriad situations and circumstances: “Don’t put all your eggs in one basket!”

When it comes to electro-mobility transition and the public transport sector in particular, operators across the globe are assessing, testing and pondering a range of technologies in the quest for low-to-zero emissions. Such is the path we’ve all been set on.

Hydrogen fuel-cell buses – depending on the route, location, charging

infrastructure and or other topographical considerations – are getting serious consideration from those bus types discerning enough looking to maximise cost efficiency in meeting such goals … and not throwing everything into the ‘fully electric bus basket’.

Where a bit of distance and passenger capacity – in turn weight – is concerned, hydrogen fuel-cell ‘city bus’ trials are certainly things many are keen to watch.

This brings us to the first extra-large, three-axle hydrogen fuel-cell city bus

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In an exciting first for New Zealand, a two-year trial of a hydrogen fuel-cell city bus has begun in Auckland, using a vehicle designed and manufactured in the country. With plans to transition the whole bus fleet to low-emission technology by 2040, this is an important part of the ‘transition vision’ journey towards achieving this goal.

WORDS FABIAN COTTER IMAGES AT AND GBV

for New Zealand, which has started a two-year, NZ$1.175 million (A$1.09 million) trial around Auckland to ultimately, “…assess how operating costs compare to diesel and electric buses of similar configurations,” Auckland Transport (AT) announced, recently.

Also the first ever fuel-cell bus designed and manufactured in New Zealand – with the vehicle built by Global Bus Ventures in Christchurch – Howick and Eastern Buses by Transdev is operating the new bus on the Botany

to Britomart via Panmure Route 70.

Through the development of the Low Emission Bus Roadmap, AT identified hydrogen as a potential fuel for Auckland’s future low-emission public transport fleet, the organisation states.

According to AT, its commitment to not procuring diesel buses from 2025 is complemented by its Roadmap. This plan commits to transitioning the entire public transport bus fleet from diesel to low emission (electric and hydrogen) by 2040, it explains.

Additionally, the estimated cost of the full transition to zero-emission (including EV and hydrogen) is expected to cost between NZ$150 million (A$139.6 million) to NZ$200 million (A$186 million), it states.

THE BUILD In terms of any challenges throughout the build and how they were overcome, when ABC magazine spoke exclusively with bus builder Global Bus Ventures (NZ) Limited CEO Tim Duncan, he stated:

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COVERSTORY

NZ HYDROGEN CITY BUS

“The largest challenge was the inability of the suppliers of the large components to have their engineers travel for commissioning. Everything had to be commissioned remotely including the Ballard fuel cell, ZF drive system, Wabco brakes and suspension and other main components.

“The project started by GBV seeing a market’s need to introduce alternative zero-emission public transport. Following this, an opportunity arose from an announcement that AT and Ports of Auckland were working together [for such a goal] and GBV successfully won the tender to build.

“The Route 70 from Botany Town Centre to the CBD means the hydrogen bus is well suited to the long run with high passenger loading.

“This vehicle was required to meet the large passenger loading of 76 32

with two dedicated wheelchair positions and a three-axle city bus is required to meet this.

“The vehicle is 13.5 metres long with a super-low [floor] to the very back seat,” Duncan clarified.

According to GBV, the bus runs at a lower pressure than cars at 350bar and, with the correct filling infrastructure, takes 10 minutes to fill the tanks. It has a range in excess of 400km.

In terms of Kiwi interest in hydrogen and hydrogen buses, Duncan says there’s been a, “…large amount of interest as the hydrogen bus doesn’t face the same limitations as full electric. It can be refuelled in 10 minutes, can be parked anywhere in the bus depot, and the battery life is substantially greater.”

By all accounts, the vehicle drives and is operated like a standard extra-large city bus, which is still

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This is a significant milestone in the journey to decarbonise Auckland’s public transport fleet. easy to manoeuvre and drive through the tights city streets.

“GBV had designed and developed a hydrogen ICE-powered hybrid years before, but the technology wasn’t fully developed at that time. This is the first fuel-cell design for GBV,” Duncan confirmed.

THE CEREMONY The bus was unveiled by the minister of Transport Michael Wood and mayor of Auckland Phil Goff at Ports of Auckland, where the bus will be refuelled with ‘green hydrogen’, AT explains.

In response to Ports of Auckland’s

Above, Right: The vehicle drives and is operated like a standard extralarge city bus.

Opposite, Above + Below: The bus will be refuelled with green hydrogen delivered to Ports of Auckland’s temporary refuelling station; This vehicle was required to meet the large passenger loading of 76 with two dedicated wheelchair positions.

invitation to participate in the Hydrogen Demonstration Project, AT commissioned the production of the hydrogen fuel cell bus at the cost of NZ$1.175 million, with Global Bus Ventures in Christchurch winning the tender.

The three-axle bus, which is AT’s biggest single deck bus, fits 43 seated adults and 31 standing adults.

Minister Wood says the government is proud to work alongside AT to help tackle climate change.

“This is a significant milestone in the journey to decarbonise Auckland’s public transport fleet and it will be on the road in the coming days.”

Mayor Goff welcomes the trial of the hydrogen-powered bus.

“Decarbonisation of our public transport fleet is an important demonstration of Auckland Council

taking the lead in reducing the city’s carbon emissions,” he said.

“In Auckland, transport makes up 40 per cent of the city’s overall carbon emissions. While our focus has been on electrification of vehicles and buses, it is important that we also explore the option of replacing diesel buses with hydrogen-powered vehicles. These produce zero-emissions and could complement our electric bus fleet.

“Auckland Council has committed to no further purchase of diesel buses from this year,” Mayor Goff confirmed.

HYDROGEN AS A FUEL Auckland Transport’s chief executive Shane Ellison says Auckland Transport is committed to doing its part by accelerating the Low Emission Bus Roadmap targeting 2030 – for all buses to be zero-emissions at tail pipe. busnews.com.au May 2021 ABC

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COVERSTORY

NZ HYDROGEN CITY BUS

AT’s Metro decarbonisation manager Darek Koper says AT’s involvement in purchasing the hydrogen bus was to prove to the market that hydrogen buses can be developed to meet New Zealand’s unique operational and design requirements, and to help in the development of hydrogen as a fuel.

“Through the development of the Low Emission Bus Roadmap, Auckland Transport identified hydrogen as a potential fuel for Auckland’s future low-emission public transport fleet. The outcome of this two-year trial will help 34

operators make informed decisions about which technology should be selected,” Koper said.

“This exciting unveiling of the hydrogen fuel cell bus follows our January launch of our fully electric bus fleet, the Airportlink.

We also launched Waiheke’s electric bus fleet at the end of 2020.”

Ports of Auckland’s chief executive Tony Gibson says it was great to have the event on site at Ports of Auckland – where the bus will be refuelled with green hydrogen delivered to Ports of Auckland’s temporary refuelling station.

“Refuelling in the future will be done next to a new electrolyser plant, producing green hydrogen here on site.”

Howick and Eastern Buses by Transdev general manager Sheryll Otway says the bus company is excited to partner with Auckland Transport again, following the launch of Auckland’s first electric three-axle ‘extra-large’ bus in October, 2020.

“In the early 1900s we launched the first motorised bus to complement our horse-drawn carriages and now, many years later, in partnership with Auckland Transport, we are again changing the way our passengers travel today and in the future,” she said.

“This is history in the making,” Otway stated.

HOW IT WORKS As GBV explains, hydrogen fuel-cell buses use a fuel cell to convert hydrogen gas to electricity and the only emissions are pure water. This technology is ideally suited to New Zealand’s clean green culture and provides operators with a long-range, fast-refuelling, zero-emission option, GBV adds.

“We see this technology as a vital component to securing New Zealand’s zero-carbon targets and here at GBV

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This exciting unveiling of the hydrogen fuel cell bus follows our January launch of our fully electric bus fleet. our focus is on helping New Zealand buses to become zero emission,” Mike Parker, executive vice president of GBV stated.

“We are proud to be leading this charge.

“A big thanks to all the GBV team and the fantastic support of Ballard, ZF, Hiringa, Wabco, BoC and other key suppliers to achieve the amazing goal of getting the systems up and running.

“This is a huge milestone and a massive step towards building the knowledge and infrastructure needed to support these world-leading technologies,” he said.

The bus initially ran trials and had tuning at GBV headquarters in Rolleston, Christchurch, before being delivered to Auckland Transport in February, 2021, the company confirms.

Top, (L-R): The Low Emission Bus Roadmap will mean a cessation of buying diesel buses from 2025; Auckland Transport bus fleet transition specialist Steve Zahorodny (left) and GBV executive vice president Mike Parker (right).

Left, Above: The hydrogen cells have a range of 400km and can be refilled in 10 minutes.

Right: The trial will take place on route 70, from Botany Town Centre to Auckland’s CBD.

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18/05/2021 2:14:28 PM

OPERATOR

CROWN COACHES

CROWNING 36

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When it comes to transporting our children to and from school, safety is non-negotiable. That’s why Melbourne’s Crown Coaches has chosen to bolster its fleet with the new-generation Fuso Rosa.

The new Rosa gives a lesson in advanced safety, performance and comfort, while helping the business stay on the road to carbon neutrality.

WORDS RICKY FRENCH IMAGES GRAEME NEANDER

ACHIEVEMENT busnews.com.au May 2021 ABC

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OPERATOR

CROWN COACHES

The safety innovations offered in the new generation of Rosa models were vital selling points.

Above: With a strong focus on reducing emissions, all of Crown Coaches’ new purchases are Euro 6.

Opposite, Top + Below: The handbrake has been moved to the left of the driver after feedback from customers; Operating since 1967, Crown Coaches is now run by the third generation of the Haoust family.

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M

elbourne’s Crown Coaches has a simple motto: “Our family transports your family.” That’s exactly what the family owned company has been doing since 1967, now guided by the third generation of the Haoust family.

With depots in Nunawading and Dandenong South, the fleet is fast approaching 160 vehicles, primarily deployed on contract morning and afternoon school runs for specialist state schools and private schools, as well as servicing corporate charters, weddings and other events.

The company has recently consolidated its fleet with the purchase of four new Mitsubishi Fuso Rosa Deluxe 24-seaters, two of which are fitted with wheelchair lifts for deployment in the aged-cared sector.

Crown Coaches business development manager Ivan Furlanetto says the safety innovations offered in the new generation of Rosa models were vital selling points, and are a significant step up from the previous model. Crown Coaches currently has 53 Fuso Rosas in the fleet.

“Safety sits at the top of the tree in terms of our

decision-making process,” said Furlanetto.

“We’re active in pushing our OEM [original equipment manufacturer] to provide vehicles that have car-like safety features, as well as helping us on the road to carbon neutrality and reducing fuel consumption.

The new Fuso Rosa delivered on all those three points.”

The new Rosa features an advanced, automated emergency braking system; pedestrian detection; lane departure warning system; driver and passenger air bags; hill-start assist; and a reversing camera. Furlanetto says these new safety innovations are a significant step-up from the previous model.

“These options bring the Rosa into line with our minimum requirements. We also load-on engine bay fire suppression

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ABOUT CROWN COACHES Crown Coaches is Melbourne’s premier bus and coach transport provider, it states. Family owned and operated since 1967, the company is a Victorian Accredited Bus Operator – AO269. Crown Coaches is known for its outstanding safety record, as well as for being an industry leader in environmentally sustainable transport solutions, it explains.

Crown Coaches was one of the first bus services in Melbourne and coach companies in Australia to offer an entire fleet of seatbeltequipped vehicles, it confirms. Crown Coaches bases its operation on the key values of safety, accessibility – offering Victoria’s largest fleet of wheelchair-accessible vehicles, innovation, accountability and integrity, it says.

The current fleet comprises minibuses, to accommodate up to 24 passengers; mid-size vehicles, which carry up to 43 people; and full-size coaches, with a capacity of up to 61 passengers.

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18/05/2021 2:19:47 PM

OPERATOR

CROWN COACHES

Moving from Euro 5 to Euro 6 has seen our fuel bill reduce, so it’s good for the planet and good for the business.

Above: The safety innovations offered in the new generation of Rosa models were vital selling points.

Right: These new 24-seat Rosa Deluxes are fitted with wheelchair lifts.

Below: Crown Coaches fitted a five-camera surveillance system.

40

and a five-camera surveillance system, so we’re monitoring the interior, the steps, left and right side and forward facing.”

Another innovation Crown Coaches has championed has been the use of reflective tape to make the vehicle more visible, bringing the coaches in line with the tape used on fuel tankers.

“The more visibility the vehicle has the better, and this is now standard fitment on all new buses,” said Furlanetto.

Working with Fuso, the company is also trialling a new pedestrian/blind spot detection system, particularly topical given the new laws around separation distances between vehicles and cyclists.

Furlanetto says he worries that with modern coaches becoming so ‘car-like’ it could lead to complacency from drivers. Hence the extra focus on safety.

“These new units aren’t ‘boxy’ anymore and they handle so well. What worries me is drivers might drive them like a car. But they weigh a lot more than a car and you’re driving at rush-hour with children on board. It’s a very high-risk environment, so let’s do everything we can to mitigate those risks.”

The new Fuso Rosa also boasts big changes in the engine and transmission, dropping engine capacity from four litres to three, while the transmission changes from fully automatic to six-speed automated manual.

“We’ve had automated manual transmissions in our Eaton-powered products for the last 15 years and they work fine,” explained Furlanetto.

“With a smaller engine the revs are a little higher for changing gears, but we’ve had

no issues with that. With fuel economy we’re seeing more than the advertised five to seven per cent saving over the previous model and, interestingly, we’re seeing an even greater fuel saving with female drivers.”

It is all part of Crown Coaches’ drive towards carbon neutrality, he explained.

“We don’t buy anything that’s not Euro 6,” said Furlanetto, who added that Crown Coaches’ fleet now has 31 Euro 6 vehicles.

“Moving from Euro 5 to Euro 6 has seen our fuel bill reduce, so it’s good for the planet and good for the business.”

CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM Furlanetto credits Fuso with being receptive to feedback on

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17/5/21 9:09 am

OPERATOR

Above: Crown Coaches adds the increased safety feature of reflective tape to make the vehicles more visible.

Below: Crown Coaches celebrated the commissioning of its 50th Fuso Rosa last year.

CROWN COACHES

future improvements. If there was a small criticism he had on the previous model Rosa it was the positioning of the hand brake, which was located under the dash.

“As a tall person, it would crack my knee,” he said.

“So, I gave feedback to Fuso and they’ve taken that on board and moved the handbrake to the left of the driver – an old-school pull-up lever. It goes

to show that sometimes old school works!”

Another tweak on the new model has been moving the radiator header tank to a more accessible position, moving the transmission control and flattening the floor under the driver to improve driver comfort.

It’s all about saving time and making things easier for the drivers.

to get a visual of the engine for fluid checks.”

SOLID PLANS After the disruption of 2020, Crown Coaches is looking forward to a bright future.

“Having schools closed due to lockdowns was a major hit to a company that trades in transporting children to and from school,” said Furlanetto.

The business has shown that it’s agile and resilient, and we’re in a great position going forward.

“As part of our daily checks we have a 50 visual-point checklist each morning and we want this to be as quick and efficient for the drivers as possible. In the old Rosa, the header tank for the water was underneath the steps so was hard to see. Now it has been moved to a much more accessible position. By moving the transmission control, it makes the hatch easier to lift off 42

“But the business has shown that it’s agile and resilient, and we’re in a great position going forward. It’s been really exciting to expand our fleet with the latest Fuso Rosa because it’s a vehicle that aligns with our commitment to safety and innovation.”

Starting out 54 years ago with one Bedford bus, it seems clear that Crown Coaches will be serving Melbourne for many generations to come.

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CHILD CHECK-MATE

AUSTRALIA’S MOST TRUSTED CHILD CHECK UNIT • Installation can suit small and large vehicles 12V or 24V systems • Simple to use, easily understood by drivers • Child check function (reminds drivers to check for children at the end of each route) • Secondary alert (horn will sound if child check is incomplete) • Tone instruction (unique tones that prompt drivers and indicate system status) • Customisable programs (can be programmed to meet various custom requirements and state/territory regulations) For inquiries, contact United Safety & Survivability Corporation:

tel: 0407 829 335 email: brett.baxendale@ussc.com.au

www.ussc.com.au

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TEST DRIVE

AUDACE 1050

NEW LOOK, NEW ATTITUDE The new Marcopolo Audace 1050 provides affordable luxury that can be tailored to an operator’s needs, as well as a predictable and dependable drive. With smart European looks and a high level of flexibility, this is a bus specifically designed for Australia’s variety of conditions.

WORDS + IMAGES PAUL ALDRIDGE

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M

aking its debut on the Australian market at the 2013 Australian Bus and Coach Show, the Marcopolo Audace isn’t a new name to our industry, but today we test drive the 1050 – the first redesign of the product since its local launch.

Powered by the Volvo B8R, this model has had key updates and changes implemented to broaden its appeal and create new opportunities in new markets.

Volgren’s national sales manager Yuri Tessari says the changes range

from major design and wholesale seating modifications to bodywork modifications.

“The Audace 1050 has been designed for Australia and it’s been launched as exclusive to our market at this stage,” said Tessari.

“The Marcopolo Audace is a proven performer, with more than 450 units sold globally each year.

It’s a high-quality, flexible bus on a top-class European chassis and it offers plenty of passenger comfort while being competitively priced.

“It’s also an incredibly versatile bus that can be used in a range of applications from school runs to charter, mining and longdistance trips.

“The 1050 had been designed for Australia and will be launched exclusively for the local market.

“We had to adapt the vehicle in different ways to suit the Australian market and, once we started this process, we decided to totally redesign it. With the exterior you’ll see a lot of changes and I believe the changes make it really competitive with other vehicles available on the market.”

Regarding changes to the seating options, there is a version of the Audace 1050 with reclining seats and retractable armrests, aimed at long-distance operators who want to offer passengers extra comfort, he added.

Often, when a vehicle is popular, companies are hesitant to alter a recognisable appearance.

Explaining why the time was right for this overhaul, Tessari said: “We’d been getting feedback and questions from the market as to when we were going revise it. I think it looks completely different from the previous model. The product concept remains the same, but the look is all new.

“It’s also now flexible in customisation and this is a huge positive change. The factory can do whatever modifications that customers ask. I think that says the product is still at the top of its life cycle.”

NEW FLEXIBILITY Talking with bus builders and sales people, it’s good to get their

feedback about what features make them proud of the vehicle we are test driving. They usually have been part of the journey and process to get the vehicle as shown here in ABC magazine; for others there are key features that they know will be major selling points they really love. Tessari says it was the flexibility and customisation possibilities that he was most proud of.

“This has become the core of our business worldwide. It’s important for our business to be able to deliver whatever the customer requires,” he explained.

“I believe, from an operator perspective, the customisations available gives huge flexibility.

“We build with 57 fixed seats or 53 reclining seats, but we can basically do whatever is required.

So, we can add another door, a toilet, a wheelchair lift or we can we can build with only 20 seats to allow for optimum comfort for a private, exclusive type of operation.

“It’s all about meeting the needs of the operators.”

NEW MARKETS Traditionally, the school bus market has been the mainstay of the Audace but, with the changes to the new model and the flexibility of customisation, new markets are in the Audace’s sights.

“With the reclining-seat version, we are ready to go,” Tessari added.

“We, of course, understand that the charter and long-distance sector has been unfortunately suffering, but we really believe when it picks up again the Audace will be here and ready.”

He references Quicksilver Tours in North Queensland as a prime example of how capable the Audace is in this segment.

“They have four Audaces in operation for tourists between Townsville and Cairns; they do pick-ups and drop-offs for the tour boats. They chose the Audace so they could offer a service delivering tourists in style and comfort. The operator uses the term ‘affordable luxury’ and I think that description really sums up the Audace.”

The customisations will also busnews.com.au May 2021 ABC

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TEST DRIVE

AUDACE 1050

make the Audace applicable to the mining industry.

The Audace isn’t new to the mining market outside our shores, but it is hoping to be a new player in the Australian industry.

“The company is particularly focused on Western Australia,” said Tessari.

“I think there’s huge potential for this product to start operating [in mine conditions]. It’s a known product in Chile, which is a huge mining centre, where we have these buses operating as charter buses. And, of course, mining specification vehicles are again a little bit different. But the Audace can be adjusted to perfectly suit Australia’s harsh conditions.”

THE MARCOPOLO WAY The Marcopolo Way is the company’s global method of manufacturing, which ensures that, no matter where around the world a Marcopolo bus is being built, the same standards throughout all points of production are followed.

“It’s a guideline on how a Marcopolo company should operate and a central part of the company’s global strategy,” explained Tessari.

“The Marcopolo Way for Volgren is to adjust ourselves to the most effective way to be able to build a bus, 46

With the exterior you’ll see a lot of changes and I believe the changes make it really competitive with other vehicles available on the market.

Above: The dark dashboard helps prevent glare and there is excellent all-round vision.

Right: Seat options are flexible, with the choice of fixed Marcopolo seats or reclining seats from Sege.

Opposite, Top: Huge new taillights, but the brake strip light remains the same..

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to sell a bus, to design a bus.

“We want that to be the standard for all factories around the world.

So, when we say that Marcopolo is improving the way of production to the Marcoplo Way standards, we mean that Marcopolo China, which is manufacturing product, is running the same concept as Brazil.

So we secure the same quality levels, for all the processes, quality gauges, designing and engineering.

“I believe that, to implement our way of working, you need [to] support everyone. So, the Marcopolo Way is not just a book that you give to people and say: ‘Yeah, this is how you should work.’ It’s a methodology on daily activities to incorporate into your way of working. So, as an employee, I think you learn from example and that’s exactly what we’re trying to do.

Tessari says the company concentrates heavily on lean

manufacturing as part of the Marcopolo Way. “So, that’s what we’re trying to do to be cost effective as a factory, and then be competitive in the market. It’s much more than just production,” he explained.

“What we’re doing is giving the customer a voice as well. That’s part of the Marcopolo Way, to keep close communication and close partnership with the customers, get feedback and have that as food for product improvement.”

GOOD FEEDBACK The customer feedback that has been implemented in the new Audace is the change from more of a stock type of bus. The recliner seats are a really good example of making changes based on market needs.

Tessari explains that Volgren received requests for this feature

from the market, so it found a partner, Turkish company Sege, and developed the solution.

“This is what we’re trying to collect from our customer seminars and learning from feedback just what is needed by operators. We ask what features will help in your operation and then we implement them,” he said.

SURPRISING FLEXIBILITY Wrapping up before the drive, Tessari reiterates that the flexibility of the bus is one of its great strengths.

“When talking to some customers, it’s often a surprise reaction to what we can actually do for them. They’ll say: ‘We didn’t know we could have a wheelchair, we didn’t know we could change the seat style.’

“That, I believe, is something that the Australain market doesn’t know about us at the moment. We can busnews.com.au May 2021 ABC

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TEST DRIVE

AUDACE 1050

It’s also now flexible in customisation and this is a huge positive change. be really flexible and adjustable to suit many applications.”

He adds that the bus will be reliable as well, no matter where in Australia the operator intends to use it.

“It really is a very dependable charter bus and highly adaptable because, you know, it’s operating in Cairns, it’s operating in Victoria, it’s already servicing a wide market.

And it could go into the Pilbara or similar regions as a mining vehicle, which Volgren already has experience in,” said Tessari.

“We’re bringing in a European chassis in partnership with 48

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Marcopolo. Although it’s built at a factory in China, the design and concept is from Marcopolo in Brazil. So, I think that duo is unique in that sense.

“We have a product that is in the price range of a complete Chinese vehicle, but has a European chassis with a Marcopolo-designed body on it.”

A combination that certainly makes sense to check out.

TEST DRIVE The first thing you notice are the updates to the exterior.

At the front, the badging and indentations have a modern, European appearance that gives a high-end look before we even get inside.

The Audace 1050 we drove had the one-piece windscreen that does give a slicker city look, whereas rural operators often go for the split.

The daytime running lights ooze luxury and both the headlights and taillights have been updated.

The standout external upgrade is the side stainless steel strip, which pops between the black glass and white paint.

The rear also has had updates with a different-look bin door with more venting and huge new taillights, but the brake strip light remains the same; it was a feature we really liked on the previous model.

Behind that rear bin door is the Volvo six-cylinder in-line diesel engine with 330hp (246kW) and 1,200Nm at 1,200–1,600rpm, which is plenty of power to easily push this bus along.

Like all new buses the access for servicing is easy, with daily checks and oil access right at your fingertips. If you’re out on an extended tour or long haul, daily checks couldn’t be simpler.

Out of a pocket comes the remote control and with one click the door opens. The driver can leave the aircon running while they are outside the vehicle and have it cooled down or warming and ready for the passengers to get on board – love a remote control for a bus!

This model is the Audace 1050, with the number standing for the height of the luggage bin. It is extremely roomy with a polished alloy finish to the floor we hadn’t seen used before.

Earlier we asked Tessari if the driver’s cabin had been updated as well and he said that it was pretty much the same as before, as the feedback from this area, including driveability and driver visibility, had always been very positive.

All is easy to operate and what we like; a feature we are seeing done a bit lately is the darker dash colour in the

Above: Both the headlights and taillights have been updated.

Opposite, Top: With the mirrors on arms in front of the driver’s eyeline, the driver doesn’t have to keep turning their head to see each side of the bus.

Opposite, Bottom: The luggage storage area has a smart polished alloy finish on the floor.

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TEST DRIVE

AUDACE 1050

Above: The Volvo six-cylinder in-line diesel engine with 330hp (246kW) pumps out plenty of power for this bus.

Specs MAKE: Marcopolo BODY: Audace 1050 DRIVETRAIN: Volvo B8R 4x2 Euro 5 TRANSMISSION: ZF SIX-speed automatic DIMENSIONS: 12.3m (L) x 2.5m (W) x 3.7m (H) ENGINE: Volvo six-cylinder in-line diesel engine; Power - 330hp (246kW), Torque 1,200Nm@1,200–1,600rpm GVW: 19,000kg EXHAUST: One-box muffler design with SCR MISC.: Aircon - Spheros CC 355; Seats - 57 Marcopolo fixed or 53 Sege reclining SAFETY: ABS, ASR, brake assist, brake blending, EBS, ESP and hill start aid

50

instrument area. Even a few shades darker does really diminish driver glare that can cause eye fatigue.

On the driver’s dash are the easy-to-operate controls for the Spheros CC 355 air conditioning system with great ventilation for the driver. The vision on the LCD screen is perfect, with no complaints. There are four cameras for all-round vehicle vision.

An inclusion always appreciated is a driver’s footrest – something so simple that really makes a difference. Visibility in the mirrors is also great, with perfect all-round vision.

An addition to the new-look Audace is the 53 reclining Sege seats in this test drive vehicle, smartly piped in orange with a two-tone grey and black look that certainly elevates the Audace to a class of luxury vehicle its predecessor could never achieve.

USB ports on each seat will keep all passengers happy and connected while traveling.

For today’s drive we left the Volgren manufacturing plant at Dandenong, Victoria, and headed out on a combination of country roads, hilly terrain and some traffic driving, so we got to give things a try out in different conditions.

Everything drove as expected – no surprises, just easy Volvo driving. It turned on a dime, as we find all Volvos do, making it a pleasurable steer that isn’t too heavy or light.

The Volvo drivetrain, although always impressive, is familiar and easy, with everything feeling dependable and predictable. A drivetrain like the Volvo B8R gives a driver confidence and a driver that is confident is a good driver.

This is where the excellent vision in the mirrors comes in; set on a big arm straight in front, you don’t need to look to the side and they let you concentrate on the road ahead.

With the Volvo B8R there are all the safety features you need as standard, including electronic braking system, anti-lock braking system, acceleration slip regulation and an electronic stability program.

In addition, there is hill start aid – a feature that is great for city traffic driving and driver peace of mind.

The 2021 version of the Audace is an outstanding drive and the new upgrades to both the external appearance and internal inclusions have really elevated the Audace 1050 to a new level.

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SUPPLY LINES

BUS SEATING GUIDE

IN GOOD

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HANDS

After a busy day at work, or out and about completing the endless list of chores life throws at us, getting to sit down and let the bus driver take over can be a relief.

Whether you use your bus travel time for checking out social media, reading a book or just enjoying the view, a comfortable seat makes the world of difference. But beneath the plush cover is a structure designed to also keep you safe and secure on your journey. Here, we look at some leaders in seating design and the innovative technology and craftsmanship they bring to the market.

KEY PLAYERS McConnell Seats

McConnell Seats’ large modern factory is located at Broadmeadows, Victoria, and provides the best in design and manufactured products and services, it says. Seats are completely manufactured in-house from the metal fabrication right through to the final trim. A high level of quality is assured through adherence to its quality management system modelled on AS/NZS ISO9001:2015, it explains.

Products and components are certified to Australian Design Regulations and recognised standards, it confirms.

CONTACT: Tel: (03) 9350 7277; Email: info@mcconnellseats. com.au

Styleride Seating Systems

Italian seat manufacturer Lazzerini fully acquired Brisbane’s Styleride Seating Systems on March 18, 2019. This acquisition results in the merger of high-quality, proven Australian-based manufacturing with Lazzerini’s leading international product innovation and design, Styleride states.

In their research and development programme Styleride has registered several designs and patents and is continuing to test and design new and innovative products to bring to the market, it states.

In 1998 Styleride met the requirements of ISO 9001 and continues to be third-party audited compliant with ISO 9001:2015.

CONTACT: Telephone: (07) 3272 7550; Email: info@styleride. com.au

Sege Asia Pacific

Sege Seats started in 1999 and manufactures commercial seats in the automotive industry, for buses, cars, military, planes, etc., it states.

Sege Seats currently manufactures 26,000 seats per month in Turkey, it says, and has officially proven its high standards with a (IATF 16949 2016) quality management certificate, it adds.

The company supplies to more than 40 countries worldwide, it explains.

CONTACT: Telephone: (02) 9727 0440; Email: info@segeseats. com.au

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SUPPLY LINES

BUS SEATING GUIDE

CAMIRA – MADE FOR A SAFER JOURNEY Camira ‘StaySafe’ is an advanced fabric treatment, which reduces the potential for viral transmission from fabric surfaces in bus and coach interiors.

W

hen applied to Camira’s wool moquette, this state-of-the art textile technology destroys viruses and kills bacteria – ensuring upholstery does not act as a potential source of transmission, Camira says.

It’s formulated specifically for multi-occupancy seating in busy public transport settings – route buses, school buses, long-distance coaches and shuttle buses, Camira explains.

Whilst the risk of transmission is thought to be greater from hard surfaces (i.e. handles, stop buttons) compared to fabric, for multi-passenger seats which demand increased defence, Camira StaySafe is an additional safeguard measure that can help prevent the person-to-person spread of both viruses and bacteria, it says.

A high-powered combination of both silver and liposome technologies firstly attracts the virus, then attacks the virus membrane, depleting it of cholesterol and allowing the silver to kill the entire virus. This is particularly effective against enveloped virus strains, providing rapid virus deactivation and destruction, while the anti-microbial silver chemistry also inhibits the replication of bacteria, it says.

Camira StaySafe is a permanent chemical finish that is chemically bound to the fabric and has a high level durability. Camira guarantees its effectiveness for anti-viral and anti-bacterial performance for a period

of five years provided the fabric is kept clean and in good condition, it says.

INDEPENDENTLY TESTED – HIGHLY EFFECTIVE Camira StaySafe has been independently tested on its wool moquette fabrics and, in accordance with ISO 18184, is shown to have highly effective anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties. It is safe, durable and there is no impact on colour or flammability performance (meets FMVSS302, FAR25 & R118.03), it states.

SPONSORED: Contact Camira (t: 03 9832 0935, or e-mail: info@camiragroup. com.au) for any further information.

HOW IT WORKS Camira StaySafe works in three simultaneous ways to attract, attack and ultimately destroy the virus, Camira says.

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ISRINGHAUSEN - INNOVATIVE SEATING SYSTEMS

F

or decades, German company Isringhausen has supplied ISRI driver seats in original equipment quality that meet an array of vehicle manufacturer’s requirements and specifications, it says.

Millions of drivers place their trust in the quality of ISRI products, the company says.

ISRI seats are also available as an aftermarket option for various trucks, buses and coaches and earthmoving equipment. Isringhausen Pty Ltd provides sales, service and spare parts for ISRI seats to its Sydney customers, as well as providing these services to the Australian and New Zealand dealer network from its facility in Wetherill Park, Sydney.

Isringhausen says that it is the global market leader in the development and manufacture of innovative seating systems for commercial vehicles, as well as technical springs. Fifty-two plants across 20 countries form the backbone of its manufacturing infrastructure.

The company has operated since 1919, when it began as a manufacturer of bicycle seats and springs. ISRI designed the first automatic self-levelling air suspension seat for commercial vehicles in 1972.

ISRI IN AUSTRALIA ISRI seats was sold in Australia by a licensee from 1977 until 1993, when the decision was made to establish a wholly owned subsidiary of Isringhausen in Australia.

ISRI drivers seats are now fitted to 90 per cent of new buses and coaches built in Australia, says Isringhausen, with a product range from static seats to fully featured air suspension seats with integrated lap-sash seat belts and driver-adjustable shock absorber.

RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT ISRI seats are designed to meet or exceed internationally recognised ergonomic and safety standards, says the company, which is certified to the ISO9001 and QS9000 Quality Standards.

At the Isringhausen head office and factory in Lemgo, Germany, approximately 140 persons are actively engaged in product research, design, testing and development. busnews.com.au May 2021 ABC

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Exceptional ride comfort with Mercedes Benz engine with reduced noise 11.97L displacement and up to 1850N/m torque Bosch A/V system with DVD/CD Optimised ZF automatic Seats 53 Coach transmission and rear axle ratio Seats 57 School Bous 3 11m capacity luggage Seats 53 With Wheelchair Lift compartments

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BRIAN WARRICK BUS BUSINESS BROKERS 62

ABC MAY 2021 busnews.com.au

ABC 405 60-62.indd 62

18/5/21 3:26 pm

Comfort, convenience and capacity The D12 series Yutong is the world’s largest bus manufacturer – combining technology, design and reliability to deliver consistent quality and longevity in mind – to provide a transport experience you can trust.

As a multipurpose bus, the D12 brings comfort and style with its air suspension and fully adjustable high back luxury seats.

The premium option for schools, mining or charter operations, it stands tall in delivering robust safety and reliability to its drivers, passengers and operators.

A true crowd pleaser.

ABC 405.als - Base Edition 63

yuton g.com . au

drive comfort at every turn. Each vehicle is built with safety and

17/5/21 9:51 am

DELIVERIES

APRIL 2021

Deliveries climb slightly in April A small rise to 92 sees monthly average deliveries also at 92 for the year, exclusive ABC data reveals.

A

minor increase in monthly bus and coach deliveries takes the April figure back into the 90s and in line with the average so far in 2021.

The final figure rises from 87 in March to 92 and keeps deliveries consistently knocking at triple figures, well above the latter stages of last year, but not quite yet back at pre-pandemic levels.

Scania had a big month in the chassis sector, doubling its March numbers to take top spot in April. Volvo is second after dropping from 36 to 25 month-on-month. Yutong had a strong month with 15. Elsewhere, BYD joins the chassis data with four, while Challenger Bus and Coach discloses its first delivery for 2021.

Volgren maintains the body-building lead with its highest monthly figure for the year at 31, plus another from subsidiary Supportrans. Its tally includes the three bodies built in its partnership with BYD. Yutong matches its chassis tally with 15 bodies

built. A busy market sees the rest on seven or fewer.

For the air-conditioners, Thermo King recorded 37 deliveries, maintaining a trend of between 36-40 for the year thus far. Cling-Yutong is next on 15. Hispacold (9), Coachair (8), MCC (7) and Spheros (6) follow in neat order.

Most of the deliveries went to Victoria, which occupied 42 per cent of the market. Western Australia followed on 24 per cent, with New South Wales easing to 20 per cent, and Queensland well behind on 10 per cent.

Turn overleaf for comprehensive bus and coach delivery information for February.

Please note all data is as supplied from manufacturers, at their discretion.

Volgren maintains the body-building lead with its highest monthly figure for the year at 31.

64

ABC May 2021 busnews.com.au

ABC_405_064-65_Bus Deliveries column FC.indd 64

17/05/2021 12:00:33 PM

Volgren 31 Yutong 15 BCI 7 Irizar 6 Custom Bus 5 Gemilang 5 N/A 5 Express Coaches 5 Bustech 3 Coach Design 3 Bonluck 1 Challenger 1

SALES BY BODY

Coach Concepts 1 Elphinstone 1 P&D Coachworks 1 Scania Higer 1 Supportrans 1

10%

% 3% 1 TAS SA

QLD

20%

VIC

Percentage by

REGION

NSW

42%

Volgren maintains the body-building lead with its highest monthly figure for the year at 31, plus another from subsidiary Supportrans. Its tally includes the three bodies built in its partnership with BYD. Yutong matches its chassis tally with 15 bodies built. A busy market sees the rest on seven or fewer.

%

SALES BY AIR-CONDITIONER

For the air-conditioners, Thermo King recorded 37 deliveries, maintaining a trend of between 36-40 for the year so far. Cling-Yutong is next on 15. Hispacold (9), Coachair (8), MCC (7) and Spheros (6) follow in neat order.

Thermo King 37 Cling-Yutong 15 Hispacold 9 Coachair 8 N/A 8

MCC Spheros Denso Konvekta

7 6 1 1

SCANIA 28

24% WA

VOLVO 25 YUTONG 15 MERCEDES-BENZ 8 BCI 7 BYD 4 BONLUCK 1

Sales by chassis

Scania had a big month in the chassis sector, doubling its March numbers to take top spot in April. Volvo is second after dropping from 36 to 25 month-on-month. Yutong had a strong month with 15. Elsewhere, BYD joins the chassis data with four, while Challenger Bus and Coach discloses its first delivery for 2021.

BUSTECH 1 CHALLENGER 1 HINO 1 MAN 1

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17/05/2021 12:00:54 PM

DELIVERIES

APRIL 2021 ENGINES

TRANS­M

UNITS

MANUFACTURER, OPERATOR & LOCATION

CHASSIS

Australian Transit Enterprises

WA

5

Classmaster 57

BCI

320

R

Euro 5

A

Raw Hire

WA

2

Fleetmaster 55

BCI

320

R

Euro 6

A

BONLUCK BUSTECH GROUP

Stewart & Sons

QLD

1

President 2

Bonluck

360

R

Euro 5

A

Metro Tas

TAS

1

BusTech XDI

Elphinstone

300

R

6

A

BYD

Transdev

NSW

3

BYD

Volgren

300kWh

R

Zero Emission

A

Transdev

QLD

1

BYD

Volgren

300kWh

R

Zero Emission

A

A

BCI

(Model)

BODY BUILDER

HP*

Rear / Front

Emissions standard

A: Auto M: Ma AS: Aut O: Opti

CHALLENGER HINO MAN

Queensland School Bus Operator

QLD

1

V10 GT

Challenger

300

R

Euro 5

N/A

NSW

1

RN8J

P&D Coachworks

286

R

Euro 5

A

Port Stephens Coaches

NSW

1

A95 24.320 ND

Gemilang

320

R

E5

A

MERC-BENZ

N/A

NSW

1

OC500RF E5 1936

Expess Coaches

360

R

Euro 5

A

N/A

VIC

1

O500RS

Irizar

348

R

Euro 5

A

N/A

VIC

1

O500RS

Irizar

348

R

Euro 5

A

N/A

VIC

1

O500R

N/A

300

R

Euro 5

A

N/A

VIC

1

O500R

N/A

300

R

Euro 5

A

N/A

VIC

1

O500R

N/A

300

R

Euro 5

A

N/A

VIC

1

O500R

N/A

300

R

Euro 5

A

N/A

VIC

1

O500R

N/A

300

R

Euro 5

A

Cranbourne Transit

VIC

1

K 310 UB4X2

Volgren

310

R

Euro 5

A

Dept. of Public Transport Infrastructure

SA

2

K 320 UB4X2

Bustech

320

R

Euro 6

A

Dept. of Public Transport Infrastructure

SA

1

K 320 UB4X2

Bustech

320

R

Euro 6

A

Irizar Asia Pacific

VIC

1

K 310 EB4X2

Irizar

310

R

Euro 5

N/

L C Dyson's Bus Services

VIC

4

K 310 UB4X2

Gemilang

310

R

Euro 5

A

McHarry's Bus Lines

VIC

1

K 310 IB4X2

Express Coaches

310

R

Euro 5

A

McHarry's Bus Lines

VIC

1

K 320 UB4X2

Express Coaches

320

R

Euro 6

Optic

McHarry's Bus Lines

VIC

1

K 310 UB4X2

Express Coaches

310

R

Euro 5

A

McHarry's Bus Lines

VIC

1

K 310 IB4X2

Volgren

310

R

Euro 5

A

McHarry's Bus Lines

VIC

1

K 310 UB4X2

Express Coaches

310

R

Euro 5

A

Mee's Bus Lines

VIC

1

K 310 IB4X2

Coach Concepts

310

R

Euro 5

Optic

S G & K J Koch

VIC

1

K 310 IB4X2

Coach Design

310

R

Euro 5

N/

Ventura Bus Lines

VIC

1

K 320 UB4X2

Volgren

310

R

Euro 6

A

Ventura Bus Lines

VIC

6

K 320 UB4X2

Volgren

310

R

Euro 6

A

Ventura Bus Lines

VIC

1

K 320 UB4X2

Volgren

310

R

Euro 6

A

WBL

VIC

1

K 360 IB4X2

Scania Higer Touring

360

R

Euro 6

A

WBL

VIC

1

K 310 IB4X2

Volgren / Supportrans

310

R

Euro 5

A

Wimmera Roadways

VIC

1

K 310 IB4X2

Coach Design

320

R

Euro 5

A

Woods Buslines

VIC

1

K 310 IB4X2

Irizar

310

R

Euro 5

A

Irizar Asia Pacific

QLD

1

B11R

Irizar

450

R

Euro 5

A

Nuline Charter

VIC

3

B8R

Volgren

330

R

Euro 5

A

Latrobe Valley Buslines

VIC

2

B8R

Volgren

320

R

Euro 6

A

A

SCANIA

VOLVO

N & J Guthrie

YUTONG

VIC

1

B8R

Coach Design

330

R

Euro 5

Busabout

NSW

1

B8R

Volgren

330

R

Euro 5

A

Gembeau

NSW

1

B8R

Irizar

330

R

Euro 5

A

Busways Pacific

NSW

5

B8R

Custom Bus

330

R

Euro 5

A

Transport for Brisbane

QLD

5

B8RLE

Volgren

320

R

Euro 6

A

Perth Transport Authorities

WA

5

B8RLE

Volgren

320

R

Euro 6

A

Perth Transport Authorities

WA

1

B8RLEA

Volgren

320

R

Euro 6

A

N/A

VIC

1

D12

Yutong

360

R

Euro 5

A

N/A

NSW

1

D12

Yutong

360

R

Euro 5

A

N/A

NSW

1

D12

Yutong

360

R

Euro 5

A

N/A

NSW

1

D9

Yutong

250

R

Euro 5

A

N/A

NSW

2

E12

Yutong

422kWh

R

Zero Emission

A

N/A

WA

1

D7

Yutong

140

R

Euro 5

A

N/A

WA

3

D12

Yutong

360

R

Euro 5

A

N/A

WA

5

D12

Yutong

360

R

Euro 5

A

TOTAL DELIVERIES 92 66

ABC May 2021 busnews.com.au

ABC_405_066-67_Bus Deliveries Table FC.indd 66

17/05/2021 12:07:01 PM

issions andard

A: Automatic M: Manual AS: Auto-Shift O: Opticruise

TRANS MAKE

AXLES

TRANS­MISSION

BODY LENGTH (metres)

AIR-CON

NUMBER OF SEATS

(Brand)

Fixed Coach

Recliners

Metro

APPLICATION Long Distance

Charter

City or Route

School

SEATING

SEAT BELTS

uro 5

A

ZF

2

12.3

MCC

57

–

–

–

–

–

X

Sege

Y

uro 6

A

ZF

2

12.3

MCC

–

55

–

–

X

–

–

Sege

Y

uro 5

A

Allison

2

13.2

Spheros

61

–

–

–

X

–

–

Sege

Y

6

A

ZF

2

10-12.9

Thermo King

52

–

–

–

–

X

–

Styleride

N

Emission

A

BYD

2

12.2

Coachair

–

–

37

–

–

X

–

McConnell

N

Emission

A

BYD

2

12.20

Thermo King

–

–

37

–

–

X

–

McConnell

N

uro 5

AS

Cummins

2

10.5

Thermo King

45

–

–

–

–

–

X

Fansia

Y

uro 5

A

ZF

2

12

Thermo King

57

–

–

–

–

–

X

McConnell

Y

E5

A

ZF

3

10-12.9

Thermo King

X

–

–

–

X

–

–

Gemilang

N

uro 5

A

ZF

2

13.5

Thermo King

57

–

–

–

–

–

X

McConnell

Y

uro 5

A

ZF

2

12.5

Hispacold

57

–

–

–

–

–

X

Sege

Y

uro 5

A

ZF

2

12.5

Hispacold

57

–

–

–

–

–

X

Sege

Y

uro 5

A

ZF

2

12.5

N/A

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

N/A

N/A

uro 5

A

ZF

2

12.5

N/A

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

N/A

N/A

uro 5

A

ZF

2

12.5

N/A

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

N/A

N/A

uro 5

A

ZF

2

12.5

N/A

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

N/A

N/A

uro 5

A

ZF

2

12.5

N/A

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

N/A

N/A

uro 5

A

ZF

2

12.5

Thermo King

–

–

44

–

–

x

–

McConnell

N

uro 6

A

ZF

2

11.7

Hispacold

–

–

43

–

–

x

–

Precision Bus

N

uro 6

A

ZF

2

11.7

Hispacold

43

–

–

–

–

x

–

Precision Bus

N

–

–

–

–

–

x

McConnell

Y

38

–

–

x

–

NB Trimming

N

uro 5

N/A

N/A

2

12.5

Hispacold

57

uro 5

A

ZF

2

12

Thermo King

–

–

uro 5

A

ZF

2

12.5

Coachair

57

–

–

–

–

–

x

McConnell

Y

uro 6

Opticruise

Scania

2

12.5

Coachair

–

–

49

–

–

x

–

McConnell

N

uro 5

A

ZF

2

12.5

Coachair

49

–

–

–

–

x

–

McConnell

N

uro 5

A

ZF

2

12.5

Thermo King

57

–

–

–

–

–

x

McConnell

Y

uro 5

A

ZF

2

12.5

Coachair

–

–

45

–

–

x

–

McConnell

N Y

uro 5

Opticruise

Scania

2

13

Denso

57

–

–

–

–

–

x

Styleride

uro 5

N/A

–

2

12

Thermo King

57

–

–

–

–

–

x

Styleride

Y

uro 6

A

ZF

2

12

Thermo King

–

–

44

–

–

x

–

McConnell

N

uro 6

A

–

2

12.5

Thermo King

–

–

44

–

–

x

–

McConnell

N

uro 6

A

–

2

13

Thermo King

–

–

44

–

–

x

–

McConnell

N

uro 6

A

ZF

2

12.3

Konvekta

57

–

–

–

–

–

–

Styleride

N

uro 5

A

ZF

2

12.5

Thermo King

57

–

–

–

–

–

x

Styleride

Y

uro 5

A

ZF

2

11

Coachair

41

–

–

–

–

–

x

Styleride

Y

uro 5

A

ZF

2

12.3

Hispacold

57

–

–

–

–

–

x

McConnell

Y

uro 5

A

Volvo

3

13.5

Hispacold

–

57

–

X

–

–

–

Sege

Y

uro 5

A

ZF

2

10-12.9

Thermo King

57

–

–

–

–

–

X

McConnell

Y

uro 6

A

ZF

2

10-12.9

N/A

57

–

–

–

–

–

X

McConnell

Y

uro 5

A

ZF

2

10-12.9

N/A

57

–

–

–

–

–

X

McConnell

Y

uro 5

A

ZF

2

10-12.9

Thermo King

57

–

–

–

–

–

X

Styleride

Y

uro 5

A

ZF

2

10-12.9

Hispacold

57

–

–

–

–

–

X

McConnell

Y

uro 5

A

ZF

2

10-12.9

Thermo King

56

–

–

–

–

–

X

McConnell

Y

uro 6

A

ZF

2

10-12.9

Spheros

–

–

X

–

–

X

–

McConnell

N

uro 6

A

ZF

2

10-12.9

Thermo King

–

–

41

–

–

X

–

McConnell

N

uro 6

A

ZF

3

10-12.9

Thermo King

–

–

X

–

–

X

–

McConnell

N

uro 5

A

Allison

2

12

Cling-Yutong

57

–

–

–

–

–

X

Yutong

Y

uro 5

A

Allison

2

12

Cling-Yutong

57

–

–

–

–

–

X

Yutong

Y

uro 5

A

Allison

2

12

Cling-Yutong

57

–

–

–

–

–

X

Yutong

Y

uro 5

A

Allison

2

9

Cling-Yutong

39

–

–

–

–

–

X

Yutong

Y

Emission

A

N/A

2

12

Cling-Yutong

–

–

44

–

–

X

–

Yutong

Y

uro 5

A

Allison

2

8

Cling-Yutong

–

27

–

–

X

–

–

Yutong

Y

uro 5

A

Allison

2

12

Cling-Yutong

–

53

–

–

X

–

–

Yutong

Y

Cling-Yutong

–

53

–

–

X

–

–

Yutong

Y

uro 5

A

Allison

2

12

*Bustech Group comprises Bustech, Elphinstone and Precision Buses. Volgren’s count includes any units from its partnership with Supportrans.

busnews.com.au May 2021 ABC

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67

17/05/2021 12:05:44 PM

LIVING SOCIAL

PICTORIAL

GOOD AS GOLD It was touch-and-go for many with the Gold Coast named a hotspot, but QBIC 2021kicked off in style for the long-awaited gathering.

IMAGES ROB PARSONS (Through The Looking Glass Studio)

Above: QBIC Conference golf day prior – with yellow carts much easier to see in the bunkers, no doubt.

68

ABC May 2021 busnews.com.au

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18/05/2021 1:29:57 PM

Top, Left: A stunning setting at Sea World on the Gold Coast.

Above: The neighbour’s pool just doesn’t compete with this.

Left: Looks like he really got into the 1970s Razzamataz TV ad spirit.

Opposite, Below (L-R): Flipper’s cousins doing final jumps before their big Shawshank Redemption escape routine later that night.

Below (L-R): Whatever the politically correct word is for ‘Shagadellic’ - that can be used here; The 19th hole is always a welcome spot for the ‘true believers’.

busnews.com.au May 2021 ABC

ABC_405_068-73_Pictorial FC.indd 69

69

18/05/2021 1:30:31 PM

LIVING SOCIAL

PICTORIAL

Right: QBIC 2021 attracted a great crowd.

Middle (L-R): Cracking band, working up a storm; School Services Committee (chair) Frank Oliveri doing official duties.

Bottom, (L-R): Pre-tee-off check-in and golf clubs at the ready. Watch out, birdies!; Smiley faces at QBIC 2021.

Opposite, Top: ”Look at the stars.

Look how they shine for you...” - this time pink, not ‘yellow’.

Middle (L-R): QBIC executive director David Tape lays down the law: “Forks on the left!

Spoons,knives and everything else within sight on the right!”; ‘Cowabunga, dudes!’

Bottom, (L-R): Waiting for the splashes; Bus networking at its finest between sessions.

70

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busnews.com.au May 2021 ABC

ABC_405_068-73_Pictorial FC.indd 71

71

18/05/2021 1:31:18 PM

Top: They’ve been hanging for a good Aussie bus gathering for ages.

‘Who’da thunk it?’

Middle (L-R): Bus people wearing their Sunday best. Think it was Saturday, though... :); “Blinded by the light, revved up like a deuce, another runner in the night...’

Left: ‘Hands up if you happen to have a blue golf hat on?’

72

ABC May 2021 busnews.com.au

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Left: QBIC 2021 certainly had a certain funky style. ‘Yeah baby, yeah!’

Middle (L-R): Getting frozen in sunny Queensland; For the golf victors.

Bottom, L-R: Remembering a BIC favourite; ‘Ready! Aim! And ... fire!’

busnews.com.au May 2021 ABC

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Visit industry.aremedia.com.au for more information. *Average number of copies distributed per issue for the 6 months from April to September 2020. †Unique Browsers per month, Google Analytics, March 2021

Untitled-3 1

18/05/2021 9:45:19 AM

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ABC 405.als - Base Edition 75

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TFNSW PROCUREMENT PANEL APPROVED

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ABC 405.als - Base Edition 76

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17/5/21 9:54 am