Australasian Bus & Coach 414 February 2022

ABC

AUSTRALASIAN BUS & COACH

UITP AWARDS AUSSIE FINALISTS BLK AUTO/HYZON HYDROGEN QUANTRON E-BUS CIZARIS DEBUTS ISSUE 414 February 2022 $5.95 inc GST

BLACK ROCK ARRIVAL E-BUS REALLY IS MORE THAN MEETS THE EYE

operator: interline, nsw retro: tassie denning in focus: bus rollaways

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contents ISSUE 414 FEBRUARY 2022

08 in the know

6. editorial | ignition Do all good things come to an end, or are they just new beginnngs? Editor Cotter ponders life’s great mysteries.

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.

22. bic column Choices, choices, choices...

By May at the latest, Australians will vote for the 47th parliament of Australia and BIC has been making the bus industry’s needs clear.

in focus

24. In focus | nsw rollaway investigation

BUS ROLLAWAY ACCIDENTS GET ‘BIGGER PICTURE’ INVESTIGATION

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The NSW Office of Transport Safety Investigations (OTSI) has launched a “systemic investigation” into bus rollaway events in the state.

raise awareness of a significant safety issue affecting the Australian bus industry: bus rollaways.

28. feature | buslink nt

30. In focus | aussie finalists uitp awards

Northern Territory operator Buslink NT has released an educational video to

Three categories out of eight in total – ‘Climate and Health’, ‘Design’

BUS ROLLAWAY SAFETY VIDEO LAUNCHED

AUSSIE FINALISTS IN UITP TRANSPORT AWARDS

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EDITORIAL Editor: Fabian Cotter ph: 0451 194 600 e-mail: Fabian.Cotter@primecreative.com.au

FOLLOW US ONLINE AT:

Technical Writer: Paul Aldridge

Facebook – facebook.com/ABCBusnews YouTube – bit.ly/busandcoachtv Twitter – twitter.com/ABCmag

PRODUCTION Production Co-Ordinator: Cat Fitzpatrick Art Director: Bea Barthelson

PRINTING Manark Printing

and ‘Young Researchers’ – fielded outstanding Australian finalists in the globally recognised biennial 2021 UITP Awards, held this time at a ‘hybrid’ ceremony in Dubai, 6 February, 2022.

ADVERTISING Trader Group Sales Manager: James Rock ph: 0419 139 941 e-mail: James.Rock@primecreative.com.au Business Development Manager - Bus: Matt Alexander ph: 0413 599 669

32. In focus | uitp award winners

VIC TRANSPORT AND VOLVO BUSES WIN UITP AWARDS

e-mail: Matt.Alexander@primecreative.com.au

The Victorian Government’s Transport deptartment and Volvo Buses Europe were key winners at the recent 2021 UITP Awards.

www.magshop.com.au

34. In focus | volvo bus 50 years

VOLVO BUS 50TH ANNIVERSARY IN OZ CONCLUDES

Welcoming new team members, creating new partnerships and launching two new key bus products – the highly anticipated BZL Electric chassis and the short Volvo B8R – notably marked Volvo Bus Australia’s 50th anniversary year in 2021.

36. coverstory | arrival e-bus

RIGHT HERE, RIGHT NOW Arrival’s comprehensive e-vehicle ‘microfactory’ paradigm won’t just theoretically blow your mind, its practicality will put it at ease, too.

UK operator First Bus, living up to its name, is behind the wheel … ‘right now’.

44. operator | interline nsw

HOLD THE LINE

Part of one of the most known Australian bus families in the industry – Joe Oliveri and his NSW Interline operation isn’t just embracing e-mobility … he’s smashing it!

SUBSCRIPTIONS e-mail: magshop@magshop.com.au ph: 1300 461 528 between 8am – 6pm (EST) Mon – Fri mail: Magshop, GPO Box 5252, Sydney, NSW, 2001

44 56. feature | blk president 2

FREE-WORLD LEADER

As Australian bus distributor BLK Auto rolls out its hydrogen bus range, a new President 2 coach – or body for selected OEM chassis of choice – has just hit the local market.

Australia: $89* NZ: $A100.05 Overseas: $A122.50 (Australian air-mail only) *price includes GST

EXECUTIVE GROUP CEO: John Murphy Publisher: Christine Clancy COO: Zelda Tupicoff Operations Manager: Regina Fellner Trader Group Sales Director: Brad Buchanan

60. feature | 1963 denning restoration

BOUND FOR GLORY

An endearing 1963 Denning owned by an Australian transport industry legend and used to provide The Apple Isle’s Cradle Mountain shuttle bus service for nearly 50 years has been lovingly restored.

departments

65. 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!

50. operator | zedline

70. factory facts | bus deliveries

Ziko and Luka started a small business with a new Irizar coach less than two years before the pandemic began. Despite lockdowns, the two men remain driven and positive as ever to pursue their vision for Zedline.

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!

A LONG ROAD AHEAD

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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.

Australasian Bus & Coach (ABC) magazine is owned by Prime Creative Media. All material in ABC is copyright and no part may be reproduced or copied in any form or by any means (graphic, electronic or mechanical including information and retrieval systems) without written permission of the publisher. The Editor welcomes contributions but reserves the right to accept or reject any material. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information Prime Creative Media will not accept responsibility for errors or omissions or for any consequences arising from reliance on information published. Opinions expressed in ABC are not necessarily the opinions of, or endorsed by the publisher unless otherwise stated.

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5

IGNITION

FABIAN COTTER

We of the Never Never

D

Knowledge is power and knowing things is powerful, but … is ‘learning’ not the nectar of life?

ark silhouettes up ahead outlined by striking neon lights and bouncing laser beams isn’t for the fainthearted at the best of times, but at an unknown band’s music concert it is quite the cool thing. I think…

While I love my music I’d never really taken the time to listen to Fat Boy Slim’s albums in full, but I totally loved the name.

Why? I’d empathised. Big time. Being ‘a fat boy’ who ‘wanted to be slim’. Too easy…

Anyway, in my musical-appreciation spectrum – we all have one – FBS slipped into the category of ‘OMG! Yeah, I know these guys – now’, which invariably comes after hearing the first bits of their most famous track. And you’ve heard it, too! The full eerie, techie synthesizer stuff that builds to a raucous crescendo broken only by the now-famous lyrics: “Right here, right now.

Right here, right now…” Yes, that one!

I’m not sure why that song came to mind when looking into UK company Arrival’s electric vehicle production videos, but it just did. I was amazed at the fluidity of the robotic process and the simple logic and common-sense that seem to underwrite a means of production that makes building stuff look fun and cool. Again.

And while many will note the lack of workers on the work floor as is often in other automotive manufacturing spaces, the concept was so ‘next gen’ it was more about fewer robots replacing robots than robots replacing humans, as is usually the case.

Now that’s crazy!

Interestingly, Arrival assembles its own proprietary battery modules that can be used in all of its platforms, enabling the customer to configure their battery requirements according to their specific needs, an Arrival spokesperson clarified for me.

It also announced last December 2021 it was establishing a high voltage battery module (HVBM) assembly plant in Charlotte, North Carolina, adding 150 jobs and investing approximately USD$11.5 million (AUD$16.1 million). This news itself was preceded in the same week by a collaboration agreement with Li-Cycle, a leading lithium-ion battery recycler in North America, to create a closed-loop EV battery supply chain in the US and Europe.

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I’m excited at this thought because given many have not been able to answer my questions properly about battery recycling long AFTER secondary and tertiary use – these guys may, some day soon, be able to.

Will see…

TURNING PAGES ABC magazine Issue 414 coincidentally covers a gamut of issues, bus types, newsy bits and sundry amounts of highly valuable pub quiz-night trivia (Hey, you never know!).

In terms of covering ‘something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue’ we have, gracing our cover, something so new in terms of where it could lead it will probably influence not just bus production but all production of various things maybe: the UK-origin Arrival Bus. Its ‘microfactory’ strategy for EV production is as fascinating as it is simple in how it addresses key issues of cost and space and re-usability in the manufacturing workplaces of the future. Or is that more accurately described as ‘now’?

If lightweight is key to EV range and is of particular importance to transit bus use, Arrival’s battery-powered bus using an aluminium frame instead of steel and custom-developed ‘rolls of fabric material’ (yep, you read that right) as the origin for exterior and interior panels and parts really is the manufacturing ‘trippiness’ of a lifetime.

Sound crazy? Good. That’s on pages 36–43.

RETRO COOL Waaaaaaaaay at the other end of the scale we have an awesome retro Denning bus that was salvaged and refurbed from the north coast of Tasmania. Previously owned by an Aussie Transport Hall of Fame legend Dennis Maxwell, who – with his wife Jeanette – ran the bus for nearly 50 years as a Cradle Mountain shuttle.

The Tasmanian Bus and Coach Society set about a Lord of the Rings-type quest to bring it back to its former glory. Check that out on pages 60–64.

ALL YOU CAN EAT Re-checking the pages I can say that somewhere in this issue is a picture of a bus with some blue on it. So there’s that one sorted.

Operators? We got two of them for you, with each at different stages of their bus journeys.

First off is Interline from NSW, whose owner, Joe Oliveri, represents one of the longest-standing bus names in the Australian industry (nearly 60 years), and whose e-mobility moves now are in full swing. That’s on pages 44–49.

Conversely, Zedline is a much smaller operator but arguably with equally as much passion for Australia and buses.

Luke and Ziko, a father-son bus team, are on pages 50–55. The bus looked stunning on the day – a big thanks to freelancer snapper Ben Hosking.

SERIOUS ISSUES While no amazing video review this month from Paul Aldridge and Cam Jones, we instead look at the serious issues of bus rollaways, which has been chatted about by many for a while, but it has now come to a head. Those are on pages 24–29.

In terms of products news there’s plenty of that, too. BLK Auto has debuted a new President 2 coach in full or just the body, and can also be used for BEV and HFC applications. Check pp. 56–59.

News? Congrats to Transit Systems for its customer service award win; good to see the sleepbus charity expand into Queensland; Quantron’s globally launched its Cizaris e-bus; and Kempower is now Scania’s official e-charger. Yep, it’s been all happening.

AND FINALLY! It was an interesting conversation I had (p21) with a leading Queensland bus operator who was on their way to a ‘freedom rally’ with a few other likeminded commercial vehicle enterprises.

Much of the long-distance and charter sector of the industry has done it beyond tough over the past few years once international tourism basically grinded to a halt. Much of that angst is still there. I can only pray things get better somehow – for the greater industry’s sake.

PS. This issue marks four years for me at ABC, so I’ve ‘borrowed’ your time each month – and I’m eternally grateful for it.

Until the next thrilling instalment!

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NEWS

BUS OPERATOR REPEATS CUSTOMER-SERVICE BENCHMARK TRANSIT SYSTEMS NSW has maintained its ‘integration level’ certification of International Customer Service Standard, it reports.

The repeat ‘integration level’ on the 2021 International Customer Service Standard (ICSS) from the Customer Service Institute of Australia (CSIA) follows a “comprehensive health check”, Transit Systems confirms.

This check examined the NSW operator’s financial/governance, operational and learning and growth perspectives – and then rated its progress in terms of “intention, implementation and integration”, it explains.

The ICSS uses a ‘balanced scorecard methodology’ to assess the efficiency and effectiveness of an organisation’s strategy, with the standard being recognised and used by the world’s leading organisations, it adds.

The process of certification takes a collective organisational 8

approach and challenges an organisation to consider how it embraces and delivers a complete and thorough customer focus in its entire decision making, it states.

EXCELLENT ACHIEVEMENT Transit Systems COO Greg Balkin says maintaining the certification of ‘integration level’ is an excellent achievement for Transit Systems NSW, especially in light of the challenges and disruptions faced due to Covid.

“The 2021 ICSS certification assessment reflected our dedication and determined focus in providing a customer service focus, especially in our operational and safety response to the pandemic,” Balkin said.

“As the highest level of certification possible, achieving the integration level on the 2021 ICSS certificate assessment is a testament to Transit Systems NSW’s unwavering

ABC February 2022 busnews.com.au

commitment to customer service.

“Also, as a multifaceted business, Transit Systems NSW’s mission is for our customers to continue to be our number one priority from the start of their journey to its completion.

“The entire team is steadfast in our approach to continue improving across all areas of the business, addressing social and environmental issues, through our detailed strategic planning and delivery,” he said.

Core strengths of the Transit Systems NSW business identified in the ICSS certification report included a customer focus with dedicated customer charter and customer principles; its service and business initiatives including the transition from diesel to electric buses; and key programs to focus on people with a disability; as well as the company’s response to the pandemic and other risk-management initiatives.

Top: Transit Systems COO Greg Balkin says maintaining the certification of ‘integration level’ is an excellent achievement for Transit Systems NSW.

SOUTH HOBART EXPRESS BUS SERVICES BOOST TO REDUCE commuting times and help ease congestion, the Tasmanian government – in collaboration with operator Metro Tasmania – is adding more than 40 new express bus services for the southernHobart Kingborough area, it’s been announced.

The move gives more public transport options for growing number of commuters living in those southern areas with the extra 43 express bus services (not “nearly 90”, as reported elsewhere) between Kingborough and Hobart set to start from 30 January, 2022, the state government confirms.

The new routes are part of the Hobart City Deal – Southern Projects initiative and will service the Blackmans Bay, Kingston and Channel areas, it states.

The new Metro Tasmania services will run weekdays during the morning and afternoon peak periods, it adds.

In total there will be 14 new X07 Blackmans Bay express services and 10 new X13 Snug express services.

As well as the peak travel services, there will be 19 more express services running between Kingston central

and the Hobart CBD outside of peak travel times, the government says.

BUS PRIORITY The Southern Projects initiative is an end-to-end solution to improve public transport and traffic flow along Hobart’s southern corridor, it says. The Southern Projects are funded by the Tasmanian Government as part of the Hobart City Deal, it explains.

As well as new express bus services, it includes a transit lane on the Southern Outlet, bus priority measures on Macquarie and Davey Streets, and park and ride facilities at Huntingfield

Above: The new Kingborough Metro Tasmania services will run weekdays during the morning and afternoon peak periods.

and Firthside, which are currently under construction.

To coincide with the new express service, the government has also taken the opportunity to adjust other southern bus services timetables, and departure locations from Hobart to improve service reliability, it states.

Passengers are encouraged to visit the Transport website for more information at: www.transport.tas.gov.au/public_ transport/service_updates

“The 2021 ICSS certification assessment reflected our dedication and determined focus in providing a customer service focus.”

ABOUT TRANSIT SYSTEMS Transit Systems is part of Kelsian Group Limited, Australia’s largest integrated land and marine, tourism and public transport service provider with established international operations in London and Singapore, it states.

With around 9,000 employees, Kelsian Group is one of Australia’s most experienced and diverse multi-modal transport businesses operating around 4,000 buses, 120 ferries and 24 light-rail vehicles, connecting more than 207 million customers where they need to be and want to go. busnews.com.au February 2022 ABC

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NEWS

Coming up

EVENTS 25 MARCH

APTIA INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS MINI SEMINAR – online

7 APRIL

APTIA INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS BREAKFAST – BRISBANE

KINETIC ACQUIRES TASSIE’S SAINTY’S BUS SERVICE LAUNCESTON-based family bus operator Sainty’s is now officially part of operator Kinetic, joining its already established Skybus Hobart and Tasmanian Redline shuttle and bus operations, the company confirms.

Sainty’s North East Bus Service owners Rob and Fruncine Sainty announced the sale of their family-run business after almost two decades.

The much-loved bus company has supported communities in Launceston and the north-east for 18 years, holding two long-term contracts with the Department of State Growth to operate bus services, Kinetic explains.

From Tuesday, 1 February, these services are now being delivered

by Kinetic with the Sainty’s vehicles and drivers joining Kinetic’s Tasmanian Redline business, the operator confirms.

Well known for its iconic Skybus airport express business – which launched in Hobart in 2018 – Kinetic is the largest bus network in Australia and New Zealand, partnering with governments, airports and schools, “…to deliver bus networks communities can be proud of,” it explains.

SHARED VALUES Kinetic co-CEO Michael Sewards congratulated Rob and Fruncine Sainty and welcomed the Sainty’s bus team to Kinetic.

“It is incredibly rare to meet a couple who are so passionate and proud of their business and the role they play in the community – in particular with their responsibility for delivering bus 10

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Above: Sainty’s in Tasmania has been sold to Kinetic after 18 years in the business.

8 APRIL

QBIC ANNUAL CONFERENCE 2022 – BRISBANE

16 MAY

BUSNSW DELEGATES FORUM – NORTH PARRAMATTA

3–4 JUNE

TASBUS CONFERENCE & DINNER – HOBART

16 JUNE

services that school students rely on,” Sewards said.

“Their emphasis on service excellence and the genuine care they have for passengers, their team and the community were clear indicators that we have shared values and strong alignment.

“We congratulate the Saintys on building a wonderful business that people have come to rely on every day – and we will always look to respect that legacy as we welcome their staff and stakeholders to our expanding team in Tasmania,” Sewards stated.

AN INCREDIBLE RIDE The Saintys say Kinetic is a growing business with small company values.

“It is a bitter-sweet moment for us personally, as we say goodbye to what has been an incredible ride building up this business with great people and a great community,” Fruncine said.

“We are confident that Kinetic will continue to represent our values of friendship, reliability and community across the north-east.”

BUSNSW ASSOCIATE MEMBER SEMINAR – NORTH PARRAMATTA

28–29 JUNE

NATIONAL INDUSTRY SUMMIT – CANBERRA

6 JULY

APTIA INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS BREAKFAST – MELBOURNE

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MAINTENANCE CONFERENCE & TRADE SHOW – MELBOURNE

15 JULY

BUS WA AGM AND BUS DISPLAY – TBC

22 JULY

QBIC PARTNER FORUM – CAIRNS

QLD BUS DRIVER AWARDS GET SOLID SUPPORT IN EXCESS OF 1,200 nominations for the belated 2021 Queensland Translink Bus Driver of the Year Awards have been received, sparking high anticipation for the forthcoming finalists’ shortlist and then category winners’ announcement at QBIC’s 2022 Annual Conference, due to take place 8–9 April, organisers confirm.

Nominators were actively encouraged to help their favourite bus driver receive recognition, as the awards recognise the important contribution of bus drivers across the state.

The Awards will be split into the following three categories: Regional bus drivers (Qconnect and Translink drivers in regional centres outside of South East Queensland); South East Queensland urban bus drivers (covering Brisbane, the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Logan, Ipswich, Moreton and Redlands council

areas); and school bus drivers (all school bus drivers in all cities and towns).

Acting head of Translink Graham Davis said: “The number of nominations highlights the positive impact our bus drivers make across Queensland.

“Whether it’s someone who is a consistent performer or someone who greets you with a smile and goes above and beyond.

“We [were] particularly on the lookout for more nominations in the regional category. We know there are plenty of friendly bus drivers who provide great service in our regions.”

Davis explains that just by nominating a bus driver, nominators also went into the draw to win one of 10 $100 gift cards.

He adds that he was excited to see the awards return after a one-year hiatus due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

A judging panel is currently pouring through the nominations to determine the three finalists for each category, a Translink source confirms. It will then be up to the public to cast their vote for whom they think should win the retrospective 2021 Bus Driver of the Year award in each category.

Above: The Queensland Translink Bus Driver of the Year award winners will be announced in April.

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NEWS

SLEEPBUS CHARITY FLEET EXPANDS INTO QLD

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NATIONAL bus operator ComfortDelGro Corporation Australia (CDC) has helped deliver to one of its community partners – sleepbus.org – a potentially life-saving ex-CDC bus for use in the local Maroochydore, Queensland, community, it’s been announced.

The sleepbus.org charity – which is focused on providing “...safe, temporary, overnight accommodation to people sleeping rough,” through its volunteer-built, customised retired buses – launched its latest vehicle at an event held at the Maroochy Neighbourhood Centre, recently.

The new sleepbus provides refuge for up to 17 guests per night in self-contained, lockable sleeping pods.

It also offers clean sheets and pillows, TV, USB phone charging ports, climate control and each pod has its own toilet, CDC explains.

The bus will join the Maroochy Neighbourhood Centre’s services for the homeless, which includes hot meals, laundry facilities, medical help, financial counselling, employment support, drug and alcohol counselling, free haircuts and showers and lockers to store personal belongings the operator states, it adds.

impact on how many people we are able to help, allowing them to sleep in a safe, warm space at night in a number of different communities around Australia,” he said.

“Getting the call from CDC letting me know they were going to donate one of their old buses was amazing and I am truly grateful for their support.

“Not only have Tony and the team provided sleepbus with buses, which we convert into safe, temporary overnight accommodation to get people off the street, but they’re ensuring our buses remain fuelled, repairing any mechanical issues and allowing the buses to be stored in their depots.”

FLEET ADDITIONS

WOMEN AND KIDS

The latest sleepbus brings the active sleepbus.org fleet to four vehicles, which are providing safe sleeps in Melbourne, Queanbeyan and Canberra thanks to a number of partners assisting the organisation with donations and volunteering.

Rowe is currently working on another CDC-donated sleepbus built just for women and children in the Maroochydore area, he says.

“In 2021, we launched our first pink sleepbus in Canberra as an exclusive service for vulnerable women and

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While CDC has partnered with sleepbus since 2019 – assisting with donations of buses, fuel, mechanical repairs and bus parking spaces – the Maroochydore sleepbus is the result of the first bus donated to the charity by CDC Queensland.

Sleepbus.org founder and chief executive officer Simon Rowe says it was almost impossible to achieve something as significant as sleepbus without the generosity of others and the support of volunteers.

“CDC’s involvement has had a direct

children, giving them a safe place to sleep assisted by an all-female volunteer crew,” he said.

“We look forward to bringing our second pink sleepbus to the Maroochydore area soon.”

CDC donated decommissioned buses from Coffs Harbour and Narrabri in December, which will factor into sleepbus’ future plans

QUANTRON LAUNCHES CIZARIS E-BUS GERMAN ‘clean’ vehicle provider Quantron AG has confirmed the name of its new 12-metre electric city bus as the ‘Cizaris’, which debuted globally to the public on 16 February, 2022.

Said to use proven and safe technology, Quantron’s Cizaris bus is a “…cost-efficient zero-emission alternative,” it says and “…the price will be below the market price for comparable BEV buses,” the e-mobility specialist claims.

In this way, Quantron seeks to enable environmentally friendly passenger transport and offer a cost-effective alternative to conventional diesel buses, it says.

The fuel-cell electric version

for Byron Bay, Hervey Bay, the Gold Coast and Tweed Heads, the operator explains.

MAKING A DIFFERENCE CDC regional Australia division chief executive officer Tony Hopkins says after the initial vehicle donation he wanted to further support the charity in its endeavours in other communities.

“At CDC we believe that providing public transport is all about serving the community with useful services and meaningful career opportunities and we recognised that sleepbus was also serving the community using buses,” Hopkins said.

We saw that partnering with sleepbus, and making more use of our resources such as buses and our depots, was an opportunity to make another difference to the community and to the lives of individuals who have found themselves in less fortunate situations.

“It’s incredibly rewarding to see our first donated bus as a finished product, now out and being used

(FCEV) of the 12m vehicle, with cells from Ballard Power Systems, is already under development, it confirms.

The 12m bus relies on proven and safe technology and LiFePo4 batteries from manufacturer CATL, it explains.

The charging power is up to 80kW with a battery capacity of up to 422kWh, it confirms.

With a range of up to 360km, according to E-SORT 2, the bus meets the requirements to cover daily city operation with an overnight charging time of three to five hours, it says.

Various equipment options will be available to suit individual customer requirements, Quantron adds.

ABOUT QUANTRON Quantron AG is a system provider of clean battery and hydrogen-powered e-mobility for commercial vehicles such as

as intended and helping to make Maroochydore a safer place.

“We’re confident that with the help of sleepbus, more people in more communities will find their way out of homelessness.”

ABOUT SLEEPBUS Rowe founded sleepbus in 2016 following an encounter with a homeless person who explained

trucks, buses and vans, it states.

In addition to new electric vehicles, the range of services offered by the “innovation forge” includes the: electrification of used and existing vehicles; the creation of individual overall concepts, including the appropriate charging infrastructure; as well as rental, financing and leasing offers and driver training, it adds.

Quantron AG also sells batteries and integrated customised electrification concepts to manufacturers of commercial vehicles, machinery and intralogistics vehicles, it says.

Based in Augsburg in Bavaria, the German company is, “…a pioneer and innovation driver for e-mobility in passenger, transport and freight traffic,” it outlines.

It has a network of 700 service partners and the

to him the risks of sleeping on the streets at night, he recalls.

Rowe initiated the charity with a GoFundMe page, which raised more than AUD$100,000 to help realise his vision for combining Japanese pod hotel-style accommodation with retired buses.

For more information on sleepbus please visit the website: www.sleepbus.org.

Above: Quantron’s new 12m Cizaris e-bus.

Above: Sleepbus.org founder and chief executive officer Simon Rowe at the CDC Queensland Kunda Park depot, Maroochydore.

Queensland.

comprehensive knowledge of qualified experts in the fields of power electronics and battery technology, through its cooperation with CATL, the world’s largest battery producer.

Quantron AG, as a high-tech spin-off of the renowned Haller GmbH, combines 138 years of commercial vehicle experience with state-ofthe-art e-mobility knowhow, it concludes.

busnews.com.au February 2022 ABC

13

NEWS

SCANDINAVIAN ‘TRAMBUS’ ORDER HIGHLIGHTS ‘E-TECH POWER’ BELGIAN BUS builder Van Hool has secured an order to build 21 fully ‘zero-emission’ electric trambuses – aka a common-sense light-rail alternative – for Swedish operator Nobina, the largest passenger transport company in Scandinavia, it reports.

Van Hool – an independent manufacturer of buses, coaches and industrial vehicles that has produced more than 1,200 electrically powered vehicles – is to deliver the 24-metre ‘Exqui.City’ model articulated trambuses for service mid-2022 in Malmö, Sweden, the company confirms.

The use of buses versus light-rail has always been a contentious issue within global transport circles, with invariably the pros and cons siding with buses, sundry sources will site, in terms of costs – depending on a city’s commuter movement objectives.

Locally, even the Public Transport Users Association of Victoria dispels the ‘urban myth’ that ‘heavy rail costs too much; we should build light rail instead’ while Sydneysiders are still absorbing the news from late 2019 when the NSW Auditor-General found the city’s light-rail project was $150 million over budget when it opened then.

Add in the capability of a ‘light-rail-looking vehicle on wheels’ and the advantageous bus-cost argument arguably solidifies tenfold – though seemingly still taboo in this region.

Since 2014, 15 Van Hool hybrid articulated trambuses have been operating in Malmö, Sweden, so this Euro order seems to be a natural progression as the e-technology 14

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advances. These forthcoming new vehicles are plug-in battery-electric and will be charged in the Nobina depot in Malmö, Van Hool confirms.

“This order confirms the confidence that Nobina has in Van Hool. This is a new and important reference for Van Hool and it represents the undeniable proof of the company’s technological power,” said Van Hool CEO Filip Van Hool.

“Van Hool is fully committed to its 100 per cent zero-emission bus and coach range.

“We are convinced that the various 100 per cent zero-emission solutions we offer – battery-electric, trolley and hydrogen – can, depending on the local application, provide an answer to the environmental and sustainability initiatives that public transport companies worldwide are undertaking.

“As an independent Belgian manufacturer of buses and coaches, with customers all over the world, we have delivered no fewer than 1,200 electrically powered vehicles, so far Van Hool’s strength lies in the fact that we have gained a lot of experience in various complex types of electrically powered vehicles, including 100 per cent battery electric vehicles, and the charging infrastructure that goes with it,” he explained.

FUTURISTIC DESIGN “We feel pride in continuing this journey together with SkŒnetrafiken and Van Hool, introducing the next generation of

24-metre, fully electric zero-emission tram buses – the first of its kind in the Nordics.

Further developing the modern, safe and sustainable public traffic solution in Malmö,” said Jens RŒsten, fleet manager at the Nobina Group.

The Exqui.City combines the flexibility of a bus with the efficiency of a tram, Van Hool explains. These trambuses have a distinct futuristic design and a high level of comfort with air conditioning, low noise levels and soft lighting, it adds. They offer optimal accessibility with a low boarding height, and easy entry and exit thanks to the four double doors, it says.

This type of vehicle is built on a multi-power platform that is now 100 per cent zero emission: battery-electric, trolley and hydrogen, Van Hool highlights. This platform makes the Exqui.City, in both

BLK AUTO EXPANDS HYDROGEN POWER REACH HYDROGEN-powered bus and truck options for the local heavy transport sector will soon have an enhanced sales and support structure via Australian-based BLK Auto and its established and new partners, given recent public announcements.

Firstly, BLK Auto has signed a binding hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle (HFCEV) and hydrogen-supply ‘term sheet’ with fellow Australian-based company Pure Hydrogen, the companies report, while zeroemissions hydrogen powered commercial vehicle company Hyzon Motors Australia is to make Melbourne its new headquarters under a partnership agreement with the RACV, they confirm.

Specialist vehicle importer and distributor BLK Auto’s term sheet with Australian Securities Exchange-listed clean energy company Pure Hydrogen Corporation is for the sale and purchase of HFCEVs and hydrogen as a fuel, they explain.

Under the terms of the agreement, the two parties will further progress negotiations concerning the potential for Pure Hydrogen to sell HFCEV buses and

trucks to its customers as a ‘wet hire’ on behalf of BLK Auto, with BLK Auto to also provide Pure Hydrogen with the option of selling hydrogen to BLK Auto’s HFCEV end-users, they state.

GROWING DEMAND Pure Hydrogen is an Australian east coast-focused clean energy company with hydrogen, gas and mobility businesses.

The company has five hydrogen projects under development and three gas projects, being the Windorah Gas Project in the Cooper Basin, Project Venus CSG in the Surat Basin in Queensland and the Serowe Project CSG in Botswana, it confirms.

The agreement carries an initial five-year term, with the option of a one-year extension if agreed by both parties, and is anticipated to commence from 1 July, 2022.

The agreement remains subject to numerous conditions including due diligence by both parties, whereby the two companies would work together on co-marketing and commercialisation opportunities in the hydrogen transport and infrastructure space.

This agreement will allow BLK Auto and Pure Hydrogen to more efficiently cater to the Australian transport industry’s growing

Above: (L-R): Anthony Taylor – aftersales manager, electric vehicles, BLK Auto; David Jiear – national fleet manager, zero emission vehicles, BLK Auto; and Clint Butler – sales manager, Pure Hydrogen Corporation Limited.

the 18- and 24-metre versions, a basis for the use of these different eco-friendly power systems, it states.

demand for hydrogenpowered fleets, they state.

“I’m excited to reach this agreement with Pure Hydrogen as this continues our solid journey forwards with hydrogen fuel cell vehicles,” BLK Auto managing director Jason Pecotic said.

“This binding term sheet lays the foundation for what we anticipate will become a long-standing and positive partnership between BLK Auto and Pure Hydrogen that will see the rapid take-up of hydrogen fuel cell-powered electric buses and trucks in Australia, and on the East Coast in particular.

“We look forward to further finalising these negotiations over the coming period with a view to bringing our aligned objectives to fruition in 2022.”

of the West Indies in the eastern Caribbean Sea).

ABOUT VAN HOOL TRAMBUS SPREAD

Left: The Exqui.City combines the flexibility of a bus with the efficiency of a tram, Van Hool explains.

Available in 18- and 24-metre versions, the Exqui.City offers, “…a realistic answer to the demand for safe, environmentally friendly, efficient and cost-effective urban public transport,” Vah Hool says.

There are already more than 300 trambuses operating in 17 cities, primarily in Europe, but also in Martinique (a French overseas ‘department’ in the Lesser Antilles

Van Hool is an independent Belgian bus, coach and industrial vehicle manufacturer, it states. The company, founded in 1947, is based in Koningshooikt. The majority of units produced are destined for Europe and the US, it confirms.

Van Hool has around 3,300 staff worldwide, the majority of whom work at the production facilities in Koningshooikt, Belgium, and Skopje, north Macedonia. busnews.com.au February 2022 ABC

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NEWS

NSW BUS GOLF DAY BREAKS YOUTH CHARITY RECORD TRANSDEV NSW has beaten its bus industry golf day event record and raised $11,600 for Father Chris Riley’s Youth Off The Streets charity, the operator announced recently.

More than 80 bus representatives and staff participated in a round at Sydney’s Liverpool Golf Course last December, and – with the generous help of sponsors and a silent auction – Transdev NSW and the broader industry were successful in raising the incredible amount, organisers confirm.

Youth Off The Streets is a not-for-profit organisation working with young people, their families, and communities to create safety, support and provide opportunities to build a positive future, it says.

As an operator and global integrator of mobility, Transdev gives people the freedom to move whenever and however they choose, establishing long-term partnerships with communities, businesses, and public transport authorities, it explains.

Transdev NSW managing director Robert Macey says the company had a history of engaging with and supporting charitable organisations from across the community.

He adds that partnering with Father Chris Riley’s Youth Off The Streets’ was an obvious alignment, particularly following the year that was.

“This is our fifth year raising funds through hosting a corporate golf day. With the support of numerous

“This is our fifth year raising funds through hosting a corporate golf day.”

organisations from across the bus industry, led by our fleet manager Bruno Martino, this year we are thrilled to have raised funds for a very worthy cause – slightly higher than the cheque presented due to

Above: “We are very grateful to Transdev NSW and all the sponsors and supporters involved in the golf day,” ambassador for Youth Off the Streets and chairman of the organisation’s Overseas Relief Fund, Tony Stewart (pictured centre), said.

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the silent auction held throughout the presentation,” Macey stated.

CHANGING LIVES Ambassador for Youth Off the Streets and chairman of the organisation’s Overseas Relief Fund, Tony Stewart, says events like these don’t just help build awareness of all the services this charity provides to disadvantaged young people.

“They provide much needed funds to support those services and none of this is possible without generosity. This is how we are changing lives,” Stewart explained.

“We are very grateful to Transdev NSW and all the sponsors and supporters involved in the golf day,” he stated.

ABOUT TRANSDEV Transdev believes public 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, it has 5,704 people who are passionate about operating its 2,150 vehicles and vessels, which deliver more than 145 million customer journeys each year, it explains.

ZERO-EMISSIONS ‘CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE’ PLAN UK BUS manufacturer Alexander Dennis Limited (ADL) plans to create a ‘centre of excellence’ to focus on the development, testing and manufacture of zero-emission bus technology, the company announced recently.

A subsidiary of North American NFI Group Inc. – one of the world’s leading independent global bus manufacturers – ADL welcomed UK government Minister for Scotland Iain Stewart on a visit to the planned Falkirk Investment Zone recently as the company is among the investment zone’s industry partners with a zero-emission bus technology centre of excellence as a project in mind.

As part of the Falkirk Growth Deal, Heads of Terms for which were signed in December, 2021, a total of 11 projects from different partners can now use £80m (AUD$151.9m) investment from the UK and Scottish governments, £45m (AUD$85.4m) from Falkirk Council, and £5.8m (AUD$11m) from Scottish Canals to create an Investment Zone for Falkirk and Grangemouth.

According to the company, ADL’s vision is to create the centre of excellence to focus on the development, testing and manufacture of zero-emission bus technology, building on the company’s established market-leading technical expertise and product innovation.

This centre of excellence would be part of a public transport net-zero technology cluster, led by ADL in collaboration with other industry partners, which could also include a high-tech incubator and dedicated flexible carbon-neutral manufacturing space, it explains. The

next phase of work on the proposals will now begin, it confirms.

NET-ZERO POWERHOUSE Minister Stewart said: “It has been fascinating to hear about these ambitious plans, which will create thousands of jobs and opportunities for Falkirk’s residents, while making it a powerhouse of the UK’s net zero economy.

“The UK is levelling-up communities right across Scotland with more than £1.7 billion [AUD$3.2 billion] of support for regional projects and initiatives,” he added.

Councillor Cecil Meiklejohn, leader of Falkirk Council, said: “This investment by the UK and Scottish governments will bring a massive economic boost to the local area and has the potential to create up to 2,000 jobs and attract £1bn [AUD$1.9bn] of private sector investment.

A lot of hard work has gone into securing

Above: As ‘The Kelpies’ look on, the planned ‘centre of excellence’ in Falkirk, Scotland, would be part of a public transport net-zero technology cluster, led by ADL in collaboration with other industry partners.

this deal, which will help us deliver on our Council priorities and our Council of the Future transformation program.”

SHAPING THE FUTURE ADL president and managing director Paul Davies, said: “As we continue on the road to net zero, we are excited to build upon nearly a century of manufacturing history in Falkirk with our vision for a new technology centre of excellence for the zero-emission age.

“We look forward to working with Falkirk Council, the UK and Scottish governments, Scottish Canals and other stakeholders in progressing our plans and shaping the future of our economy right here in Falkirk and Grangemouth.”

busnews.com.au February 2022 ABC

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NEWS

DAIMLER BUSES EXPANDS 3D PRINTING PORTFOLIO DAIMLER BUSES in Europe has expanded its commercial 3D printing and is offering a new product and service portfolio in the field of additive manufacturing, it has announced.

The aim is to support customers of other industries when procuring and providing parts, and to facilitate the digital transformation of their companies, Daimler says.

Daimler’s Center of Competence 3D-Printing at Daimler Buses is now offering 3D printing as well as various consulting services, data preparation, digital warehousing and individual component production.

“We at Daimler Buses have been working intensively on additive manufacturing since 2016,” said Daimler Buses head of customer services and parts Bernd Mack.

“We have had many positive experiences with the 3D printing technology and we have built up a lot of knowledge – we would like to pass that on. “We will advise customers of other industries with our own consulting unit and support them with digitising their parts procurement.

MULTIPLE SOLUTIONS When certain components are missing in production, or when spare parts are required, quick solutions are needed to remain able 18

to deliver. Regardless of whether it’s a case of short-term one-time requirement, whether delivery times are to be reduced, or whether specific suppliers are being lost: additive manufacturing offers a wide range of possible solutions, according to the company.

3D printing services from Daimler Buses are not only able to solve urgent demand issues; they also provide cost reductions for

“We have had many positive experiences with the 3D printing technology.” warehousing, tool procurement and scrapping, it says.

The Center of Competence 3D-Printing allows customers to commission a potential parts analysis tailored to their parts portfolio as part of a part screening.

The range of services extends to support with digital warehousing issues. In addition, webinars and workshops are also offered as part of ‘Quick Start’ concepts that provide a quick introduction to additive manufacturing, it states.

FOR BUSES Benefitting from more than 25

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Above: Daimler Buses is now providing 3D printing services to other manufacturers for spare parts.

Top: New spare parts go through a digitisation process and the plans stored in a digital warehouse.

years in the field of 3D printing prototype construction, the company uses it at Daimler Buses in particular in the aftersales area, in order to react quickly and flexibly to urgent customer requirements, it explains.

Just under 40,000 bus spare parts are 3D printable with the printing blueprint stored in the digital warehouse together with the necessary printing information, it confirms. Customers can acquire 3D printing licenses both online and via their service partner, to have the corresponding parts produced in a certified 3D printing centre, it adds.

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NEWS

THE WOT!?!

FLYING HIGH

KEMPOWER SCANIA’S OFFICIAL SUPPLIER OF DC CHARGING EQUIPMENT IT HAS BEEN ANNOUNCED that Finland’s electric vehicle charging solutions company Kempower is now the official supplier of DC fast charging equipment to Scania worldwide.

Scania and Kempower have signed a frame agreement where Kempower will be an official supplier of DC fast charging equipment to Scania and its affiliates around the globe. The agreement enables Scania to provide both its own network and its customers with Kempower’s DC fast charging technology and solutions.

“We are happy to serve Scania’s and its affiliates’ electric bus and electric truck network worldwide,” said Kempower CEO Tomi Ristimäki.

“The collaboration with Scania is significant for Kempower in the heavy

vehicle industry. We are looking forward to drive the development further towards emission-free logistics and transportation.”

One of the first collaborations of Scania and Kempower was an electric bus depot in Strängnäs, Sweden, where Kempower delivered the charging infrastructure, including Kempower Cand S-Series fast charging solutions and the Kempower ChargEye Depot master.

The Kempower EV fast chargers are connected through Kempower ChargEye Depot master, which is a unique remote-controlled platform for electric bus depots. With the platform, charging can be monitored and controlled in real time and the available power can be dynamically distributed to the buses that need charging the most.

The fast charging stations for the bus depot were delivered, installed, and commissioned by Wennström on behalf of Scania. Wennström is a Nordic supplier of energy storage, distribution and replenishment.

There were extraordinary scenes of a bus soaring through the air recently after an articulated bus was trapped in the remains of a collapsed bridge in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania and had to be lifted out by crane. Thankfully no serious injuries were reported after the Fern Hollow Bridge collapsed and dropped the bus and four cars into the ravine beneath it. Allegheny Crane Rental spent 50 hours removing the vehicles, first draining the bus of 125 gallons (473 litres) of fuel before lifting it out of the rubble. “We’ve picked trains, cars, buses, planes, all kinds of things,” said Allegheny Crane Rental CEO Kyrk Pyros. “This may be our best lift for the year. I don’t know yet.”

TRAVEL IN STYLE

This fantastic archive image surfaced on Twitter recently of a bus prepared for the 1954 Australian royal visit by Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh, complete with a model of a crown on the roof. Part of the John Ward Transport Collection of images in the City of Sydney Archives, this bus was a DGT AEC Regal IV 2785 with a body built

by Comeng. For more amazing pics of buses past, check out the archives at https://archives. cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au.

ABOUT KEMPOWER

Above: Kempower is now the official supplier of DC fast charging equipment to Scania.

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Kempower was founded for the first time in the 1990s to target the non-welding part of the DC power source market, being restarted in 2017 with a 100 per cent focus on EV charging.

Kempower is part of the Kemppi Group, which is says provides world class recharging solutions with over 70 years of knowledge in power electronics and user experience.

I GET AROUND

Over in Cleveland, buses are playing a part in helping refugees acclimatise to living in the US, with volunteers from Cleveland’s Refugee Bus Training Program teaching recently arrived Afghans how to use the city’s rapid transport system. “It’s best to know [and] learn your bus system because it’s the best and easy way to get around locally, especially if you don’t have a car and you’re just starting out brand new in a city,” a volunteer told Spectrum News. There is also help with using apps and taking a practice ride to a destination that they’ll visit frequently.

COACH OPERATORS JOIN CANBERRA ‘FREEDOM’ CONVOY A GROUP OF long-distance and charter touring coach companies joined their truck industry peers in Canberra for an impromptu ‘freedom’ gathering on Saturday, 12 February.

Busloads of people from a broad spectrum of Australian society were on five coaches heading to the nation’s capital, in a convoy of sorts, joined by other “frustrated” bus and coach operators from all directions who are, “…coming out from under the rock,” in what is described as, “…a snowball effect,” according to Calypso Coaches owner-operator, simply known as Ray, who has been in the industry for 23 years, he confirms.

The long-term effects of lockdowns and mandates have impacted charter tour coach companies to varying degrees, with various results, but booking cancellations and evolving segregation of services to customers who are actually a prime ‘untapped’ revenue source wanting to travel nationally – unable to fly out due to vaccine mandates – does not bode well for the operator.

“The last two years we rode it out pretty well. Though the social distancing [meant] we required more vehicles, so it’s kind of a false economy,” Ray said.

“We did what we had to do at the time and it was ok. But now that the honeymoon is over we can see the snowball effect coming. The supply chain breakdown and fuel costs are out of control; I just paid $1.90 at Port Macquarie for diesel. Then there was the recent AdBlue crisis, AdBlue’s [cost] gone through the roof.

“We have truckies on our buses coming down, as well. These are guys that have lost their job already. We’ve got teachers, we’ve got nurses, I think there’ll probably be doctors there – there will be anyone

from any walk of life. And then there are businesses that are getting involved now, too,” he said.

“I mean businesses will always hang back I suppose until the last minute because, you know … if you deal with government or whatever … you might [have] wanted to have minimised the effect on the business initially, but … there’s more and more coming out, mate.”

COMMUNITY SUPPORT “The donations from transport companies that just want to donate, to pay for fuel – everyone just wants to have a voice down there.

“It has been phenomenal. We pulled up at a stop at Taree last night with 150 people and the town people came out and cooked dinner for us and were dropping off groceries.

“The buses are a simple way to get down there [to Canberra]. Everyone’s just contributing for fuel, that’s all. We are not profiting at all from this. Anything surplus goes back into [buying] food and anything we can do to make this comfortable for people.

“So, arguably, the mandates aren’t working; they are creating more havoc, more destruction than the virus itself and, um … that’s what it is all about now. People have lost that freedom of choice; this is the whole … main push for these rallies: what happened to freedom of choice of what I put into my body?

“We speak to [young families] every day with kids and they are almost in tears saying ‘we don’t want to get it, but you know they are living fortnight to fortnight, month to month and it’s like they are going to lose their job in a week if they don’t get it, so … it’s crazy, mate. It doesn’t make sense at all.”

NOT POLITICAL “It’s something everyone has got to consider. You’re going to put your company’s name out on the chopping block so to speak, but you know we made a decision a couple of months ago that we are sort of past that point now – that’s it’s just not good enough to sit back and do absolutely nothing.

“And even though we’ve lived through it [relatively] quite well, we are not happy about it either because it’s … caused a lot of destruction for other people. A lot of people have lost their businesses, or they are out of work – that is it in a nutshell.

“This is not an anti-vax thing that we are doing. We have a lot of people that are vaccinated that are [angry] because the goal posts have changed. People are genuinely aggravated by that because this was never part of the plan,” he stated.

“They’ve done what they thought was the right thing and now it’s backflipped.

It’s almost like now they’re being punished for doing the right thing, kind of.”

ON THE BUSES According to Ray, aboard his coaches is a mixture of nurses, teachers and [emergency] staff on board and he and his team are, “…getting to chat with them, you know?

“And you don’t hear this coming out of mainstream media [workers opinions being supressed] and [when] you see it all on social media – which people try to dismiss straight away as just propaganda – um … you got to ask some questions.

“We are driving down these motorways and we got people that are just tooting their horns, you know? If you got your flag out hanging on the side – there are a lot of vehicles heading that way. And I think it’s incredible.” busnews.com.au February 2022 ABC

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BIC

Choices, choices, choices...

By May at the latest, Australians will vote for the 47th parliament of Australia.

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hoices, choices, choices... Or are there? In the 2019 federal election campaign, the Coalition was outspending Labor on roads. Labor was spending double the Coalition on public transport – close to $30 billion promised by Labor – admittedly mostly to heavy and light rail. The Greens, fed up with both parties and their “failure over decades to plan ahead and meet the demands of [Australia’s] growing cities and regions”, pledged $25 billion over the decade to fund both rail and bus services.

In our January online e-bulletin we reported that, unlike the 2019 federal election, climate change may not be the headline act for the 2022 election – after all, doesn’t the Australian voter have other pressing concerns – mostly related to anything ‘Covid’ and the cost of living? A quick check of the current policy platforms of Liberal, Labor and the Greens is quite revealing and maybe an indication that even our political leaders are finding it challenging to find the pulse of their voters.

A common denominator between all three parties is ‘the future’. Labor is planning for it. Liberal is building for it. The Greens are fighting for it. Labor and the Greens share some commonality with Indigenous treaties and renewable energy in their top five. Meanwhile, the Liberals are building for economic recovery and support for small business.

On 31 January, ‘anti-vaxxer’ protestors set up camp in Canberra, calling for the resignation of Australia’s political leaders. Canberra had also seen Invasion

“Our submission also called for funding a tourism campaign.”

Day marches the week prior and celebrated the 50th anniversary of the longest protest in global history – the Aboriginal Tent Embassy. COP26 saw nationwide protesting on climate change in November last year. There is no doubt that the ‘voter’s campaign’ is in full swing and the closer we get to the federal election, we may continue to see week-to-week shifts in the topic of the day.

Maybe the voter will find ‘choice’ in the Independent candidate – perhaps from any one of the new 13 female candidates (who, according to some media reports, are all Liberal defectors); or the United Australia Party (led by the former Liberal MP Craig Kelly); or Pauline Hanson’s One Nation (who is determined to put a candidate in all 151 house 22

ABC February 2022 busnews.com.au

of rep seats); or the Shooters, Fishers and Farmers Party (on a mission to get rid of the “Coles and Woolworths of politics”); or Katter’s Australian Party (just looking for a ‘fair go’).

We think that Australia’s balance sheet, Covid management and lack of skilled workers and job security are going to be at the centre of this federal election – although let’s not completely rule out climate change and renewable energy. The BIC commenced our campaign late last year meeting with the Deputy PM Barnaby Joyce (Minister for Transport) and Senator Bridget McKenzie (Minister for Regionalisation). On 9 February, the BIC met with the federal opposition leader Anthony Albanese at a private dinner. The Australian parliament met for two weeks in February and is set to again in March. And although parliament house remains closed for face-to-face engagement, the BIC will be taking our industry business to ministers and shadow ministers by way of nearby cafes or online.

The Morrison government will deliver its budget on 29 March – should be an interesting watch – particularly considering the ‘Omicron’ wave, which has affected much of the country with supply chain issues, staff shortages and low consumer confidence. Morrison’s mid-year economic outlook (delivered in December last year prior to Omicron and many returning to self-imposed isolation) projected a stronger-than-expected outlook, but it is our bet that the average punter out there will be looking at how smartly the borrowed money has been spent and the plan to reduce the deficit.

The BIC has submitted a pre-budget funding report to the Australian Treasury. In our prebudget submission, we provided key funding recommendations to support net-zero heavy vehicle safety and the necessary skilled and resilient workforce we need (so many in industry are suffering from lack of access to skilled workers).

Our submission also called for funding a tourism campaign to support land transport tourism.

We will be releasing our federal election policy platform in the coming weeks. Readers can stay up to date with our bus industry messages on LinkedIn – Bus Industry Confederation.

We have also locked and loaded [I love it! - Ed] an interactive key dates calendar for national and international conferences, expos, summits and seminars on movingpeople.com.au.

The BIC secretariat is committed to the ‘moving people’ vision that enhances the ‘sustainability’ and liveability of Australia’s cities and regions by using bus and coach transportation.

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

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come face to face with BIC national members at the 2022 Bus Industry Summit movingpeople.com.au/summit Accreditation Manager Advantech Australia Airbags Australia ATG Axalta Coating Systems Beneco BFI Fire BLK Auto Bridgestone/Bandag Brisbane City Council Bus & Coach International Bus Finance Australia Bus SA Bus Stop Sales BusInsure Buslines Group BusNSW BusTech Group BusWA Busways Group Camira Group Challenger Bus & Coach Coach Design Coachair Australia Coachworks ComfortDelGro Corporation Australia Connect Source Consat Telematics Consolidated Insurance Agencies Cooltek Asia Pacific Cummins Curratechnic Dal-Trans Denso Automotive Systems Australia Department of Transport Victoria Distinctive Systems (Australia) Downer EDI Engineering Power DTI Group Ebusco

Untitled-114 23 ABC 414.indd 23 2022Industry Summit23 Program_D6.indd 2 Bus Confederation (5209631).indd 1 Untitled-24

Electromotiv Express Coach Builders FIP Group FleetSafe/Mobileye Fry’s Spares Future Fleet International GIRO Global Bus Ventures Go Transit Media Group Heritage Finance HESS Hino Bus Australia I-Bus Sales Australia ICS Service Solutions Ideas Enterprise Independent Tyre Monitoring Solution INIT Interline Bus Service Into Training Australia iris Asia-Pacific Irizar Asia Pacific ISRI Seats IVECO Bus JCDecaux Australia & New Zealand Keolis Downer Kevrek (Australia) Kinetic Group KINNECT KlineFire LSM Technologies Luminator Technology Group MAHA Australia McConnell Seats Australia Mercedes-Benz Bus & Coach MKW Insurance Brokers Multispares Murrays Australia Navigate Health Australia netBI

Nexport NOVO Transport Systems Nuline Charter/Bayside Coaches O’Brien Glass Industries Omnibus Optibus Parts Supply Solutions/ Hanover Displays PBA Transit Planning Penske Commercial Vehicles Piper Alderman Pitcher Partners Port Stephens Coaches Precision Cleaning Australia Premier Transport Group PrimeWorks Public Transport Authority of WA Pulitano Group Punchbowl Bus Company Quantum Risk Management Queensland Bus Industry Council Red Bus Services Redcat Wheel Safety Rover Coaches Ryan Tax Services Australia S.M.S Diesel Spares Scania Australia Scriptus Consulting Siemens SMC Corporation (Australia) State Transit Authority of NSW Streamline Co StyleRide Seating Systems SURA Australian Bus and Coach

Tasmanian Bus Association The Orion Network Thermo King Bus Australia Thoreb Australia Tiger Spider Transdev Australasia Transfab Transit Systems Transit Training Solutions TransLink Transport Canberra Transportme Trapeze Group ANZ TWUSUPER UITP (International Association of Public Transport) United Safety & Survivability Corporation Valeo Group Valvoline Australia Ventura Systems Australia Victorian Diesel Services Viva Energy Australia Voith Turbo Volgren Volvo Bus Australia Wales Bus & Body Repairs Webfleet Solutions Wireless Alert Monitoring System Yutong Australia Zafety Lug Lock Australasia ZF Services Australia

National Members of the BIC as at 1 November 2021

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IN FOCUS

ROLLAWAY INVESTIGATION

THE NSW Office of Transport Safety Investigations (OTSI) has launched a “systemic investigation” into seemingly perennial bus rollaway events in the state following a 2021 incident near Wollongong and previous Southern Sydney incidents at Hurstville (2016) and Oatley (2017).

WORDS FABIAN COTTER IMAGES COURTESY OTSI AND NSW AMBULANCE

A

ccording to OTSI, the investigation will: Identify the factors, both primary and contributory, which lead to bus rollaway events; determine the effectiveness of any controls that are in place to manage the related risks; and advise on any matters arising that would enhance the safety of bus operations.

OTSI’s decision to initiate this systemic investigation follows a review of recent incidents and the findings of the abovementioned past investigations, it explains.

In recent years, OTSI has investigated several bus rollaway incidents, including those resulting in either fatalities or serious injuries, it says.

OTSI commenced an investigation in January, 2021, as the result of a serious bus rollaway

24

Right: OTSI determined that there would be safety benefits from investigating bus rollaway events from a “systemic perspective’.

Below: The aim is to identify ways in which the risk of bus rollaway events can be reduced.

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BUS ROLLAWAY ACCIDENTS GET ‘BIGGER PICTURE’ INVESTIGATION busnews.com.au February 2022 ABC

25

IN FOCUS

ROLLAWAY INVESTIGATION

accident that occurred at Cordeaux Heights, NSW, after the driver became medically incapacitated, it states.

After reviewing evidence associated with this accident and analysing incident data collected by OTSI, it was determined that there would be safety benefits from investigating bus rollaway events from a “systemic perspective”, rather than as several “isolated incidents and accidents”, it explains.

INVESTIGATION SCOPE Based on these findings, OTSI’s chief investigator determined that the incidence of bus rollaway events warranted investigation in accordance with Section 46 of the Passenger Transport Act 1990 (NSW).

The scope of the investigation includes, but is not limited to: • An evaluation of the extent and trends associated with bus rollaway incidents; • Engineering and other technologies available to limit the risk or consequence of these incidents; • Practices related to the operational status of a bus when left unattended; and • The method of collection and 26

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information sharing of data in the heavy vehicle industry.

The chief investigator has required the investigator in charge (IIC) to: • Identify the factors, both primary and contributory, which lead to bus rollaway events; • D etermine the effectiveness of any controls that are in place to manage the related risks; • Advise on any matters arising from the investigation that would enhance the safety of bus operations.

The IIC will consult with all directly involved parties (DIPs) during the course of the investigation, OTSI confirms.

PARLIAMENT TABLING OTSI produces a written report on every investigation for the Minister for Transport, as required under section 46BBA of the Passenger Transport Act 1990.

Investigation reports strive to reflect OTSI’s balanced approach to the investigation, explaining what happened and why in a fair and unbiased manner, it says. All DIPs

will be given the opportunity to comment on the draft investigation report, it highlights.

The final investigation report will be provided to the Minister for tabling in both Houses of the NSW Parliament in accordance with section 46D of the Passenger Transport Act 1990. The Minister is required to table the report within seven days of receiving it.

Following tabling, the report is published on the OTSI website and information on the safety lessons promoted to relevant stakeholders.

The published report will replace this Interim Factual Statement, OTSI confirms.

THE WOLLONGONG EVENT As documented via Fire and Rescue NSW’s (FRNSW) account of the Cordeaux Heights incident of 4 January, 2021, at 10:09am (though curiously only published online 17 October, 2021, at 08:05am), FRNSW crews from Unanderra and Wollongong were on the scene of an incident where a bus carrying passengers had crashed into a house on Staff Road, Cordeaux Heights.

It states: “FRNSW arrived shortly after receiving the Triple Zero (000)

The IIC will consult with all directly involved parties. call at 10.09am, where it is believed the driver of the bus suffered a medical episode, causing him to lose control and crash into a power pole and the house.”

“The bus was carrying passengers at the time and one other person has been treated for injuries by NSW Ambulance.

“NSW Police are also on scene and traffic on the road is partially blocked due to the damaged power pole.

“FRNSW are currently working to stabilise the two-storey house.”

OTSI’s ensuing Interim Factual Statement likewise assessed the driver suffered an incapacitating medical episode.

It explained: “As a result the bus rolled uncontrollably in a reverse direction down South Road, Cordeaux Heights. The bus struck several parked vehicles and damaged infrastructure along South Road coming to rest against the front of a domestic residence.”

It added: “Based on findings from OTSI’s preliminary enquiries, the chief investigator determined that the incident warranted investigation in accordance with Section 133

Above, Right: OTSI’s investigation will look into trends associated with bus rollaway incidents.

Below: OTSI investigates incidents using a ‘no blame’ approach.

Opposite, Left: After a medical incident the bus driver lost control of the bus, which crashed into a house.

of the Passenger Transport Act 2014 (NSW).”

ABOUT OTSI OTSI is an independent NSW authority which contributes to the safe operation of bus, ferry and rail passenger and rail freight services in NSW by investigating safety incidents and accidents and transport safety risks, identifying system-wide safety issues and sharing lessons with transport operators, regulators and other stakeholders, it states.

OTSI is empowered under the Transport Administration Act 1988 to investigate rail, bus, and ferry accidents and incidents in accordance with the provisions of the Passenger Transport Act 1990 and Marine Safety Act 1998.

It also conducts rail investigations on behalf of the Australian Transport Safety Bureau under the Transport

Safety Investigation Act 2003 (Cth), it adds.

OTSI investigations are independent of regulatory, operator or other external entities. It investigates using a ‘no-blame’ approach to understand why an occurrence took place and to identify safety factors that are associated with an accident and incident, to make recommendations or highlight actions that transport operators, regulators and government can take to prevent recurrence and improve safety, it says.

OTSI investigators normally seek to obtain information cooperatively when conducting an investigation; however, where it is necessary to do so, OTSI investigators may exercise statutory powers to conduct interviews, enter premises and examine and retain physical and documentary evidence, it confirms.

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27

FEATURE

BUSLINK NT

BUS ROLLAWAY SAFETY VIDEO LAUNCHED Northern Territory operator Buslink NT has released an educational video to raise awareness of a significant safety issue affecting the Australian bus industry, its drivers and the public: bus rollaways.

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I

n an attempt to educate drivers and help prevent bus rollaways, Buslink NT’s video highlights the scale of the problem nationally. The video also outlines the common circumstances in which rollaways occur and demonstrates ways to effectively counter the problem, the operator explains.

Buslink NT has shared the video with all employees to reinforce best practices for prevention. It is also sharing the video with all bus industry associations throughout Australia in the hope of better educating drivers and reducing the number of uncontrolled vehicle movements, which are occurring on average once a day across Australia, it confirms.

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Bus rollaways are now also a subject of an investigation by the NSW Office of Transport and Safety Investigations, as reported in ABC magazine, recently.

A GREAT LOSS This video and its distribution is in response to an enforceable undertaking entered into by Buslink NT with NT WorkSafe regarding an alleged contravention of the Work Health and Safety Act following the fatality of a Buslink NT driver in 2017.

Buslink NT’s CEO, Tony Hopkins, says the 2017 fatality was a tragedy.

“This employee was a much loved and valued member of the Buslink team and her death in 2017 is still felt as a great loss,” Hopkins said.

We will continue to take all reasonably practicable steps to provide a safe work environment.

“The safety of our employees, passengers and communities has always been our biggest priority and, since the accident, we have taken steps to enhance engineering controls to help prevent a similar rollaway vehicle incident.

“We will continue to take all reasonably practicable steps to provide a safe work environment for our employees, customers and the general public.”

rollaways, these initiatives include the rollout of Mobileye collision warning systems to all Buslink NT and Queensland buses (completed mid-2021) and funding of a road safety campaign with the Automobile Association of the Northern Territory on the dangers of distracted driving, it confirms.

Mobileye consists of a camera mounted on the windshield constantly monitoring the road in front of the vehicle and

displaying information on a small dashboard device.

In addition to visual alerts, the unit sounds an audio warning to assist the driver in preventing or mitigating a collision. The alerts monitor for safe ‘following distance’, forward collision alert, lane departure without signalling and pedestrian and cyclist collision warnings.

To view the video visit: https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=PSorBO6An6M

Opposite + Bottom: Buslink NT has delivered several safety intiatives to improve safety for drivers.

Above: The Mobileye system monitors the road ahead for potential collisions.

FURTHER INITIATIVES As part of the enforceable undertaking with NT WorkSafe and as a part of the company’s drive for continuous improvement in safety, Buslink NT has delivered several initiatives with the aim of providing substantial benefits to the workplace, industry and the broader community, it states.

In addition to the video on the prevention of vehicle busnews.com.au February 2022 ABC

29

IN FOCUS

AUSSIE FINALISTS UITP AWARDS

AUSSIE FINALISTS IN UITP TRANSPORT AWARDS Three categories out of eight in total – ‘Climate and Health’, ‘Design’ and ‘Young Researchers’ – fielded outstanding Australian finalists in the globally recognised biennial 2021 UITP Awards, held this time at a ‘hybrid’ ceremony in Dubai, February 6, 2022.

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WORDS FABIAN COTTER IMAGES COURTESY TRANSDEV AUSTRALASIA

HE AWARDS are designed to recognise the most innovative, ambitious and solution-driven projects from the public transport sector.

Transdev Australasia, part of the Transdev Group Australia, was acknowledged as a finalist in the tough Climate and Health category for its endeavours ‘driving lower emissions in Australasia’.

Transdev – a global leader of zero 30

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emissions vehicles – during 2021, “…brought this leadership to the Australasia region, launching [a] new electric and hydrogen powered fleet, including Australia’s first 100 per cent solar-powered bus,” – more widely known as Project Aurora.

In the Design category, the Department of Transport, Victoria, was a finalist for its FlexiRide on-demand bus service. FlexiRide has no fixed route and only operates when booked. Passengers can book a trip

from their nearest physical or virtual bus stop and travel to or from the designated FlexiRide bus hubs in the same service area. Further information on this service can be found overleaf.

While not entirely bus related, in the Young Researchers (aged 35 or younger) category – which recognises and rewards outstanding young talent making a significant contribution to the field of research in urban mobility – Lea Finau,

“Hydrogen-fuelled transport is fast becoming a reality,” he said.

“New and emerging technologies will make it cheaper and more sustainable for governments to introduce hydrogen-powered fleet(s), whether it be buses, trains or ferries.

“Analysis of the industry suggests that prices for green, sustainably sourced hydrogen will halve over the next decade, making it a far more competitive and value-for-money option over traditional fossil fuels.

“It only takes one pathfinder vehicle or innovation to help instigate widespread industry change.

“Over the last two years, already we are starting to see a shift in the availability of diesel fleet(s), as more operators and public transport agencies are favouring electric vehicles.”

ABOUT THE AWARDS Every two years the UITP Awards showcases ambitious and innovative projects positioning public transport as the backbone of urban and local representing Rivercity Ferries, part of the Australian Public Transport Division of Sealink Travel Group, was acknowledged as a finalist for her On Time Running Project with the development of an interactive dashboard, “…providing context regarding the root cause identification in relation to trips and timing points which are showing consistent signs of early or late running.”

‘SUSTAINABILITY’ FINALIST UITP recognised Transdev’s efforts to introduce more zero-emissions technologies into its operations, as in 2021 the company took significant steps forward to decarbonise across Australia and New Zealand, introducing new electric and hydrogen-powered fleets and driving down emissions through highly advanced telematics, it explains.

Transdev Australasia CEO Luke Agati says the accolade as a finalist was recognition of the work that was underway across the company.

“We continue to be fervent advocates for cleaner, greener,

zero emissions technologies and have set a target of reducing our emissions in Australia and New Zealand by 30 per cent by 2030,” Agati said.

“Transdev has remained ahead of the curve and have invested our own resources to introduce new state-of-the-art sustainable fleet and drive positive environmental outcomes with suppliers.

“By harnessing strong and trusted partnerships with our public transport agencies and suppliers, we have had the opportunity to introduce new innovations to market – such as operating the first hydrogen powered bus in New Zealand and delivering Australia’s very first 100 per cent solar powered full-size bus.”

HYDROGEN HIGHLIGHT Agati says Transdev was exploring opportunities to introduce new hydrogen-fuelled vehicles into the Australasia region following the news the company was set to test the world’s first hydrogen-powered train in Germany in 2023.

It only takes one pathfinder vehicle or innovation to help instigate widespread industry change.

Above: Transdev Australasia CEO Luke Agati says the accolade as a finalist was recognition of the work that was underway across the company.

mobility solutions in cities and regions around the world, it states.

With five successful editions now completed, the UITP Awards have been positioned as the coveted prize to vie for within the public transport sector, it explains.

An international jury comprising global experts evaluate and select the best projects looking to reward innovation, contribution, and transferability prospects, it adds.

Projects must have fallen into one of the 2021 Award categories and must have been undertaken between June 2019 and May 2021.

Categories were: Climate and Health; Design; Women in Leadership; Marketing Campaigns; Multimodal Integration; Public And Urban Transport Strategy; Operational And Technological Excellence; and Young Researchers.

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IN FOCUS

UITP AWARD WINNERS

VIC TRANSPORT AND VOLVO BUSES WIN UITP AWARDS Victoria’s Flexiride service and Volvo Buses Europe’s Gothenburg bus electrification project were key winners at the 2021 UITP Awards.

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WORDS CAT FITZPATRICK IMAGES COURTESY VENTURA AND VOLVO BUSES

HE 2021 UITP Awards winners were announced at the MENA World Congress, held in Dubai on 6-8 February.

Taking Taking place every two years, the UITP Awards, “…showcase the most ambitious and innovative projects of the last two years in cities and regions around the globe,” it states – and cover eight categories from Diversity and Inclusion to Multimodal Integration and Public and Urban Transport Strategy.

The 2021 Awards shone a spotlight on a key Australian project, the ‘Rowville Flexiride – Demand Responsive Public Transport System’ from the Department of Transport, Victoria, which won the Design Award, while Volvo Buses Europe also made a splash winning the Climate and Health Award for its project called ‘The Gothenburg Delivery’.

Other winning projects included: a drive to reduce sexual harassment on public transport in Barcelona; smart services to aid passengers in Singapore find their way or get assistance; an app bringing together information all of Moscow’s public transport options; and the upgrade of a busway in the French city of Nantes to make it 100 per cent electric.

RIDE ON TIME Public Transport Victoria’s Flexiride, which won the UTIP Design Award, is a demand-responsive weekday service with no fixed route, allowing passengers to book their trip from their nearest virtual stop, it states.

The result of a partnership between participating operators, the Department of Transport, Victoria, and Moovit – a Mobility as a Service solutions provider and creator of the Flexiride app – FlexiRide is currently operating across six different areas of Victoria: Croydon, Lilydale, Melton South, Mooroolbark, Rosebud and Rowville.

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It was the Rowville section that won the UTIP Award.

“It’s an honour to see the Flexiride trial in Rowville win the design award at the International Association of Public Transport Awards (UITP) held this week in Dubai,” said Minister for Public Transport and Road Safety Ben Carroll.

“This award recognises Flexiride’s convenience, flexibility, popularity and the ease in which passengers can order the service and get where they need to go.

“Since introducing the Flexiride trial to Rowville, we have expanded on-demand services and trials across a number of growing suburbs in Melbourne and will continue to add additional routes throughout the year.

“It is all part of Victoria’s Bus Plan, to improve our bus network to better

meet demand, improve accessibility and performance, and deliver value for money.

“I’d like to thank the Department of Transport and our bus operators for getting this innovative trial up and running across the state to ensure Victorians have access to reliable public transport,” Minister Carroll said.

“IT’S MARVELLOUS” The Flexiride service was extended to the east Melbourne suburbs of Rowville and Ferntree Gully in December, 2020, operated

by Victoria’s largest bus provider Ventura.

Passengers use the app to book rides to and from Ferntree Gully Station and Stud Park Shopping Centre.

The Flexiride app: suggests the most efficient routes; enables users to book a ride from any virtual stop to the two hubs

or back again; directs passengers to their nearest pickup point; provides real-time tracking of the bus; and enable future bookings to be made up to a week in advance. Passengers then use their Myki card to pay for the ride, as they would for any other public transport service on the Myki network.

For passengers with accessibility requirements, they can request a more tailored service that can collect them from their front door or another accessible location.

Rowville resident Elaine Wallis, who has impaired vision, uses Flexiride up to four times a week to visit Stud Park Shopping Centre for coffee with her walking group and relies heavily on the service to get out and about.

“It’s marvellous,” she said.

“Without it I’d probably stay home a lot more or I’d have to get a taxi, which is too expensive, and they don’t like doing short trips,” Wallis stated.

The on-demand service has also helped reduce commuting trips by having virtual stops nearer to some users than timetabled bus route stops and provides greater flexibility.

Ventura driver Hubert Lacanau says he liked the fact Flexiride allowed him to go the extra mile for his passengers.

“We have customers with challenges like visual and hearing impairment and the elderly who we can drop at their doorstep, which makes them feel safer,” he said.

“In the afternoons, we carry lots of school kids. I’ve spoken to parents and it gives them peace of mind knowing how their child is going to get home and be on time.

“Currently, a 12-month trial is taking place of Flexiride in in Lilydale, Mooroolbark and Croydon, having started in October, 2021. The service operates 6.00am to 8.00pm on weekdays and 8.00am to 6.00pm on Saturdays, with no services on Sundays or public holidays.

ON POINT Volvo Buses’ win in the Climate and Health category for its successful electro-mobility implementation in Gothenburg, Sweden, not only, “…recognises the positive

environmental benefits the electric bus system has had on the city”, but also highlights Volvo Buses’ leading knowledge and experience in implementing complete electric bus systems,” the company said.

The Gothenburg delivery included the provision of 145 Volvo 7900 electric articulated buses and charging infrastructure in the city.

Close partnerships with the local public transport authority VŠsttrafik, and bus operator Transdev, were essential for the project to succeed, Volvo Buses says.

Implementation of the entire electro-mobility system and bus fleet took place overnight for a seamless transition, with the changeover taking place in December, 2020. The project was part of Gothenburg’s mission to become fossil fuel-independent by 2030, it explains.

Volvo Buses says that since the introduction of electric buses to Gothenburg’s streets, there have been measurable environmental benefits, with CO2 emissions in the city reduced by 10 per cent compared to the old buses, which were running on renewable fuels.

Emissions of nitrogen oxides have almost halved as well, and particles have decreased by almost 20 per cent.

“We are delighted to see our electro-mobility delivery in Gothenburg win this important award,” Volvo Buses senior vice president Ulf Magnusson said of the win.

We have customers with challenges like visual and hearing impairment and the elderly who we can drop at their doorstep, which makes them feel safer.

“Electrifying 35 per cent of a city bus fleet overnight demands extensive planning, close collaborations and expertise. The project is part of our ongoing commitment to quiet, clean and sustainable public transport that helps to create Zero Cities all over the world,” he said.

UTIP secretary general Mohamed Mezghani added: “The UITP Awards celebrate the most ambitious and cutting-edge projects from around the globe. Volvo Buses and the Gothenburg delivery exceeded expectations on all the criteria that we set.”

“We felt the project excelled at enhancing quality of life in urban areas by promoting public transport while positioning it as the backbone of urban and local mobility.

“The project managed to do this innovatively, with prospects for replication by our colleagues in the sector.

“We congratulate them and are very proud to offer them a UITP award!” he stated.

Opposite: The Flexiride service is an ondemand service which can be booked via a smartphone app.

Above: There have been significant reductions in emissions since the bus electrification project was put in place in Gothenburg.

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IN FOCUS

VOLVO BUS 50 YEARS

VOLVO BUS 50TH ANNIVERSARY IN OZ CONCLUDES

Welcoming new team members, creating new partnerships and launching two new key bus products – the highly anticipated BZL Electric chassis and the short Volvo B8R – notably marked Volvo Bus Australia’s 50th anniversary year in 2021, the company reports.

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WORDS FABIAN COTTER IMAGES COURTESY VOLVO BUS AUSTRALIA

n reflecting on its past year and key business achievements across partnerships and training, product launches and electromobility milestones, general manager Mitch Peden outlines it was an eventful anniversary year for Volvo Bus Australia, indeed.

“Whilst it wasn’t quite what we had planned, our 50th year in Australia meant a great deal to the team and it was wonderful to witness many achievements this year including welcoming new members to the team, creating new partnerships and launching two new products: the short Volvo B8R and, of course, 34

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the new Volvo BZL Electric,” Peden explained.

“The global launch of the new Volvo BZL Electric was arguably our biggest highlight in 2021. It truly made our milestone year all the more special.

“Having dedicated five years to extensive planning, development and testing, it was certainly a very proud moment for the team in witnessing the launch of our cleanest, safest and most sustainable technology to date for the Australian and New Zealand markets.

“It is now an especially exciting time in anticipation of the upcoming official handover of our first Volvo BZL Electric unit to the Western Australian Public Transport

Setting the groundwork for the BZL Electric was a key priority for us.

Authority (PTA) in February – our first customer (of many) to be operating this new technology,” Peden said.

E-SKILLS COURSE

Above: VBA celebrated 50 years of business in Australia in 2021.

Right: VBA GM Mitch Peden.

Below: The new Volvo BZL Electric.

Along with the launch of the Volvo BZL Electric in 2021, Volvo Bus Australia also saw the beginning of an exciting new partnership with TAFE NSW in the collaborative development of an Electromobility Micro Skills Course, the company confirms.

“Setting the groundwork for the BZL Electric was a key priority for us and the opportunity we had in partnering with TAFE NSW last year - to produce a brand-agnostic, national standardised course covering primary electric vehicle safety and operational information was a testament to this,” Peden explained.

“While electric vehicles are nothing new, this kind of course for the industry certainly is and will be important in developing essential industrywide knowledge.

“Training for our customers and partners has always been a priority for Volvo Bus and this past year has seen us being flexible and innovative in delivering training in new ways.”

“It is really fantastic to look back on all that has happened in our 50th year in Australia, which we were fortunate to cap off with marking our twelfth consecutive year of market leadership in the Australian bus and coach industry,” he stated.

“A result like that is only possible with the ongoing support and trust of our customers – for that we are truly thankful.

“Our customers this year have

done an amazing job of keeping people moving – to their jobs, to receive medical care, to school and, of course, to quarantine.

“We have been amazed by the commitment of drivers and technical and operational staff across the nation.

“As customer and market needs remain ever changing, we look forward to continuing to deliver quality product and service solutions this year.

“We have a lot planned for the future and 2022 will certainly be a busy year for us and we will continue to lead with our values of quality, safety and environmental care as we take our customers with us on the journey ahead.”

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COVERSTORY

ARRIVAL E-BUS

RIGHT HERE, RIGHT NOW

If the bus of the future were here today, what could it tell us about the here and now – or how best to get us to from whence it came? Arrival’s comprehensive e-vehicle ‘microfactory’ paradigm won’t just theoretically blow your mind, its practicality will put it at ease, too. UK operator First Bus, living up to its name, is behind the wheel … ‘right now’.

WORDS FABIAN COTTER IMAGES COURTESY ARRIVAL

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D

aydreaming as a kid, one might wistfully wander off into some imaginary world picturing futuristic people and places, and how the former moves in the latter in this assumedly utopian scene. While the outfits might be magnificently ‘bad catwalk’ chic, and with the urban venues and spaces now gritty and characterful or pristine yet drearily sleek, it will be the modes of transport that capture the full scope of your own fleeting imagination.

Hmmm. If only one could draw…

While generations have produced seemingly bazillions of deftly talented artists and creatives who can put pen or paint to paper to capture their own fantastic visions, some – names need not mentioned – are kind of left to bask in all the underrated glory that bent stick-figure drawings with ill-matching lengths and squiggles can bring.

In that context, when you see some building or vehicle supreme in its design at the time, the overwhelming feeling in that moment of abject removal of bias and judgement is ‘wow’. And that’s not even an internationally recognised emotion, if you want to go and check. Yet such is the impact of Arrival’s stunning ‘back in black’ e-bus design that’s close to completing pre-public use trials.

Add in the disturbingly ingenious production methodology behind it – based around what Arrival Limited calls ‘microfactories’, underwritten by cool autonomous ‘skateboards’ transporting parts around a factory floor – and that sense of wow is more than enough for the hamsters on treadmills above in your head to stop and scratch their heads as the cogs of thought enmeshed in the brain come to a grinding halt.

More wow… A bigger wow… A different type of wow altogether now fills the head.

What the Arrival concept represents – a technology company creating the world’s first Generation 2.0 electric vehicles – isn’t so much an EV range into a rapidly expanding marketplace (the Arrival Bus, commercial Van and ‘ride-sharing’ targeted car), but an entirely new way of manufacturing thought.

New materials, cleaner processes and what would inarguably be landmark less set-up and production costs and space requirements means a revolution impacting sundry products and industries globally isn’t just coming soon – it’s here. Right now. Big time.

Arrival’s ambition is to remove all barriers to electric vehicle adoption – starting with cost. The company has taken a unique approach, designing its vehicles entirely from the ground-up. The result is affordable, light, modular electric vehicles with a range of up to 300km and a 50 per cent reduction of total cost of ownership lower than fossil fuel equivalents, it claims.

OPERATOR USE For the past year, Arrival’s proving ground trials have been underway and they are in conjunction with First Bus – one of Britain’s leading bus operators – with public road trials expected to commence soon in Q1 2022. The trials will see Arrival’s vehicles operating on existing First Bus routes in the UK. Arrival is expected to begin production for the bus in Q2 2022, it states.

The new partnership started just seven months after First Bus announced its commitment to purchase no diesel buses after 2022 and to operate a fully zero-emission fleet by 2035. First Bus already plays a leading role in the operation of low or zero-emission vehicles, with electric buses in Leeds and Glasgow, the country’s biggest electric Park & Ride fleet in York and a 99-strong fleet of biomethane buses in Bristol, it confirms. Last year, the company also introduced the world’s first hydrogen-powered double-decker fleet in Aberdeen, Scotland.

When Arrival unveiled its electric bus mid-2020, it created a new and improved public transportation experience for all users, it says – from the drivers and passengers to the engineers, cleaners and fleet owners – and reducing operating costs for operators, making the transition to electric vehicles more economically viable, it adds.

The initial trial vehicle configurations are a combination of familiar requirements and new innovative features, which will be activated throughout and made possible by Arrival’s smart connected hardware and end-to-end fleet management solutions, Arrival explains. Telco Blackberry will be taking care of any autonomous driving software.

The single-deck Arrival Bus features a single front door with a passenger seating capacity of 36 across the entire flat floor, allowing greater accessibility, as well as more usable standing space and ability for passengers to travel more comfortably, the company states. It is equipped with up to 310.8kWh of energy storage capacity with the option of both an AC and DC charge, it confirms.

The Arrival Bus has been developed to not only have common suspension front and rear, but common wheels and tyres – estimating the bus to be up to 40 per cent lighter than other battery-electric buses in the market today, it says.

Arrival’s vertically integrated approach allows it to, “… develop innovation at pace without the constraints of waiting for technology progression in the supply chain.

This enables a best-in-class product, with a superior total cost of ownership than both fossil fuel and electric vehicles currently on the market,” the company explains.

At the trial’s start, president of Arrival, Avinash Rugoobur, said: “Today is an important day in the transition to a more sustainable, user-focused transportation ecosystem and we are thrilled to be partnering with First Bus on this trial and for people to experience the Arrival Bus on public roads.

“Cities around the world are pledging their commitment to a zero-emission transportation future and Arrival is providing them with the ideal product to help them achieve that in the Arrival Bus. We are working in partnership with operators and cities globally to support improvements to public transportation networks whilst creating vehicles that can be tailored to local needs.”

The vehicles will be going through rigorous validation and testing ahead of certification, Arrival states.

THE BUS Whilst, in theory, there is only so much one can do with a bus in terms of design – a rectangle on wheels, in layman’s busnews.com.au February 2022 ABC

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COVERSTORY

ARRIVAL E-BUS

thanks to the vehicle’s modular design, seating can be configured to meet customer needs.”

MICROFACTORIES?

Top: She’s quite the looker under artificial light.

Above: The simple, clean design of the driver’s cabin.

Opposite, Top: The Arrival Bus is up to 40 per cent lighter than other batteryelectric buses in the market today, Arrival says. It is equipped with up to 310.8kWh of energy storage capacity with the option of both AC or DC charging.

Opposite, Middle: Inside, Arrival Bus’s beautiful clear roof is augmented via various useful commuter information screens.

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terms – in the overall matt-black finish and with such expansive, open glass spaces encouraging panoramic clarity of vision – the Arrival e-bus is decidedly gorgeous.

Its futuristic edginess comes from the very fact it’s not exuding edges at all – least not anything sharp enough to catch the eye at a moment’s glance and ruin the ruse.

Arguably there are similar global bus designs, or elements of, already around, or at least emerging (and they would be by now once they had seen this bus), but there’s just something uber-cool about its dark hues and simple luxury that would make you want to get on that bus.

‘Destination irrelevant. Ticket cost?

Who cares? Here, take double!’

And that’s just where buses need to be to encourage more people

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to use them – particularly now as e-cars bring new novelty to having a personal ride in the home garage.

As Arrival explains: “Every feature of the Arrival Bus is designed to create an unrivalled experience for both drivers and passengers.

“The layout … is inclusive and accessible. The low, flat floor, widened passenger doors and user-friendly ramps ensure passengers can manoeuvre through the bus safely and easily.

“For even more space, the battery modules are integrated into the base of the bus for optimal weight balance, ensuring easy manoeuvring and letting in natural light from the roof.

“Floating cantilever seats give a more streamlined, sleek appearance and allow for easier cleaning. And

When ABC magazine asked Arrival to confirm if such a bus would be available in Australia or this region soon, given that Arrival has production facilities in the USA and anything made for the UK would be right-hand drive as per our market requirements – we kind of didn’t receive an answer.

The initial ‘okay, that’s weird’ was eventually dispelled because once you go further down the rabbit hole of the production philosophy, there’s the epiphany of sorts that ‘they really don’t have to’. And that’s because, from what can be determined and the implications of it, the Arrival e-vehicle concept means, it would seem, globally they ‘won’t be coming to us’, but ‘we’ll be coming to them’. Seriously…

The magnitude of this seemingly ethereal interpretation of ‘how we think of things, make things, put things together and then get it out there – fast’, relatively efficiently and ‘cleanly speaking’ pretty much speaks for itself.

And to better understand the clever simplicity behind it all, it’s worth carefully listening to those who helped conceptualise it in the first place.

Arrival’s ambition is to remove all barriers to electric vehicle adoption – starting with cost.

THE MAN So, what drives ‘changing the traditional automotive industry’?

“I’m getting this question – ‘why is Arrival different?’ – many times and I would say that, actually, everything is different – the people, culture, technologies we are using, materials, components, method of manufacturing.

The only thing which [is] probably similar to other companies [is] that our products are called ‘van’ and ‘bus’ but everything else is different,” said British-based Russian billionaire businessman and Arrival founder and chief executive David Sverdlov, recently.

“The automotive industry, the way how it is now, was developing for more than 100 years and it was a lot of innovations and a lot of optimisation with the process and, today, we believe that the industry isn’t the maximum level of efficiency.

“What we understand today [is] that is not enough, because we still get vehicles which are expensive and that’s not sustainable and that’s why we started Arrival in January 2015, with the idea to reinvent the way vehicles are made.

BLACK ROCK As reported via Bloomberg, on 19 November 2020, Arrival Ltd. had agreed to combine with ‘blank-cheque’ firm CIIG Merger Corp. in a deal that would, “…raise cash and give the electric van and bus maker a listing on the Nasdaq.

“The transaction, which gives the combined company an enterprise value of US$5.4 billion (AUD$7.56 billion), will provide Arrival with approximately US$660 million (AUD$923.4 million) in cash, the two companies said in a statement Wednesday, confirming an earlier Bloomberg News report,” it stated.

“CIIG also raised US$400 million [AUD$559.6 million] in new equity to support the transaction. Arrival will be listed under the ticker ARVL.” The report added: “Arrival said Wednesday it will use the infusion to fund growth. The company, founded in 2015 and led by chief executive officer Denis Sverdlov, raised US$118 million [AUD$165.1 million] from funds managed by BlackRock Inc. last month, and dedicated those proceeds to projects including a ‘microfactory’ to produce energy-efficient vehicles in South Carolina.

The October fundraising round valued the company at about 3 billion Euros [AUD$4.79

billion], according to BloombergNEF. “Arrival has signed contracts worth US$1.2 billion [AUD$1.68 billion] with production planned to begin in the fourth quarter of 2021, it said in the statement. Other investors in Arrival include Hyundai Motor Co., Kia Motors Corp. and United Parcel Service Inc. UPS has ordered 10,000 vehicles equipped with advanced driver-assistance systems such as automated braking and lane-change warnings, which could lead to autonomous movements within the company’s facilities.

“Annual electric van sales will grow to 2.3 million units in the US, Europe and China by 2030, BloombergNEF has estimated, projecting that large fleet operators such as Amazon.com Inc., DHL and Anheuser-Busch InBev SA will drive demand.

“CIIG, led by chairman and CEO Peter Cuneo, raised about US$260 million [AUD$363.8 million] in a December 2019 initial public offering. Cuneo will become the nonexecutive chairman of the combined entity.

“Cowen & Co. and JPMorgan Chase & Co. advised Arrival, while UBS Group AG and Barclays Plc acted for CIIG, according to the statement.”

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COVERSTORY

ARRIVAL E-BUS

“The vehicle, the way they are designed today, cannot be assembled by microfactories. The vehicle must be designed to be assembled by microfactories. If you take a normal car today, only to make the body system, you need to have at least 1,000 robots. In our case, all assembly processes [use] less than 70 robots.

“We invented grid-based components, new material technologies, to do the body systems, and a new software to manage our factories, and also in-vehicle software. So, if you combine all those things together,

When Arrival unveiled its electric bus mid2020, it created a new and improved public transportation experience for all users, it says. microfactories, components, materials and the software, those are enabling technologies which makes it possible to make best-in-class vehicles.

“It’s a perfect time for companies like us to step into this industry and actually change it. We found a way how to break the role of economy of scale. We have much

better product, green product, but it also has better pricing, as well.

This perfect combination where you don’t need to have a compromise between being green or being efficient. So, with our products, it comes together,” he explained.

SAVING TIME, MONEY Arrival Automotive CEO Mike

Above: The matt-black finish and wide glass panels make this a striking bus to see on the road as well as gives an expansive view for passengers.

Left: Seating capacity on the single-deck bus is 36.

Opposite, Top: The buses are currently going through validation and testing ahead of certification.

Opposite, Middle: Floating seats.

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Ableson, said: “One of the things that makes Arrival different is our microfactory approach to assembling and manufacturing vehicles. A microfactory is a much, much simpler process as compared to a legacy automotive manufacturing plan.

“A typical automotive assembly plant takes literally years to construct. We can do that whole thing in six months or less.

So, it’s maybe one sixth the amount of time and maybe one tenth of the [capital expenditure],” explained.

Arrival Elements CEO Tracey Yi said: “When you look at our elements and components, they’re modular, they’re based on a 10 by 10 grid; they’re stackable, they’re plug and play. It’s amazing.

“Designing our products ourselves, owning the IP [intellectual property], gives us the ability to upgrade that and prioritise the products that we need. It’s easy installation, easy replacement, agility for the future,” she stated.

PRICE PARITY “The brief was really clear from the start,” recalled Arrival chief of materials Rob Thompson.

“How do we build vehicles at price parity with a conventional diesel vehicle?

“Now, what that means when you’re putting a large, expensive heavy battery into a vehicle, is that you need to make the body system lighter and lower cost.

“If you were to take a conventional steel panel and compare it to ours, then we’re less than half the weight.

“The materials that we’re developing are

thermoplastic-based composites, and we can recycle those an infinite number of times,” Thompson explained.

“We have far higher ductility and what that means is the panel rebounds from impact. So, rather than having to repair or replace, our panels actually survive much longer out in the field, massively reducing the potential repair bills for our customers.

“The way it began was … was really clear at the start, he [Sverdlov] was like ‘with everything that you know, how would you build a vehicle now and what’s really exciting in the world of materials?’

And so that’s where we started from; we just dug into where all the development was, where robotics was going and where polymer chemistry was being developed, where recycling was strongest,” Thompson explained.

“We looked at all the key players and all of the opportunities that presented themselves.

“We rethought the vehicle architecture and rethought the materials to create something genuinely new.

“We’ve taken a completely different approach, a radical approach to how we make our vehicles. So, we’re using distributed microfactories and that means that we needed to develop materials and processes that could fit that model.

“So, we needed to do away with the big heavy expensive steel stamping tools, paint lines, welding lines – these things that cost billions to set up and are with a company for years, decades even. We wanted to establish a very nimble and agile approach to manufacturing.

“You have to develop the material and the process together to achieve the microfactory model.

“If you were setting up a production line for a conventional metal standard car … you’re looking at something like a million Euros a square metre for the tooling and a busnews.com.au February 2022 ABC

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COVERSTORY

ARRIVAL E-BUS

12-month lead time. Now, with our process, we’ve got that lead time down to just a few weeks. And our tooling investment is tens of thousands instead of millions. So, we can turn around products very quickly, we can go from prototype to production very quickly, and it really supports this microfactory model.

“Everything starts from a fabric; all that we’re doing is fabric-based. And that, in itself, is fundamentally new,” Thompson stated.

“We’re trying to build all of the performance that we want in the finished material into fabrics. So, what we’re doing is we’re mixing the garment industry, 42

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conventional textile industry at automation, and we’re bringing those things together.

“And so we’re finding this really nice serendipity in some places that we just wouldn’t have discovered if we weren’t mixing these different industries together.

And it’s gotten to the stage where we bring rolls of fabric into the factory and we deliver finished panels to the vehicles at the other end of the factory,” he explained.

VEHICLE CHOICE Arrival president Avinash Rugoobur explained the reasoning behind which types of vehicles the company makes.

“We always get the question ‘why commercial vehicles first?’ and it’s actually because it’s an underserved market,” he said.

“So, right now, you have very few vehicles that you can go and get and you’re not able to do anything bespoke or custom with those vehicles, you get what you get.

“It’s a market that cares about the total cost of operating, which electric vehicles enable, and Arrival further enhances that. And then it’s a growing market. It’s a large segment; there [will be] two million vans by 2025 and Arrival has the best-in-class product. We’re able to scale rapidly; we’re able to really use the technologies to enable these customers to improve their operations.

“We can work with cities and customers and we can create [vehicles] at any volume, again using the same microfactory, so it’s a win-win on both sides.”

PANEL AND PAINT Thompson continued: “What we can do with a composite material that you can’t do with monolithics like metals is that we can build in additional strength where we need it.

“We have far higher ductility. So, in a low-speed impact, where you’d expect to have to replace the metallic body system,

The Arrival Bus has been developed to not only have common suspension front and rear, but common wheels and tyres. produce new components for vehicles, or they could be reused in other applications,” Steel explained.

“If you were to take a conventional steel panel and compare it to ours [Arrival’s is] less than half the weight. If we take 125kg out of a conventional body system, then that equals something like [an additional] 10km range per charge, or about 800kg of CO2 in the lifetime of a vehicle.

“So, through this material development, we’re making a significant impact on the sustainability of the vehicle.”

Specs MAKE: Arrival MODEL: Arrival Bus BODY: Modular platform, thermoplastic-based composite material CHASSIS: Fully flat floor layout BATTERY: Max. capacity – 310.8kWh RANGE: Between 200408km (payload dependant up to 8,000kg) SEATING: 36 cantilever ‘floating’ seats ex. driver.

Passenger capcity – 80–125 MISC.: Single front door; interior panoramic wraparound LED screens; glass ‘skylight’ roof

our panels actually bounce back from that and don’t require replacement. So, rather than having to repair or replace, our panels actually survive much longer out in the field… massively reducing the potential repair bills for our customers.

“I’ve worked on material development for a long time, and you have to have a lot of faith in the opportunities that materials present and it takes a certain type of culture to understand the opportunities of that.

“There’s very few places in the world where you could do the sort of work that we’re doing, and at Arrival the collaboration between the teams, the trust between the teams, it’s unlike anywhere else that I’ve been.

“And it means that innovations

ABOUT ARRIVAL

like this, they can … really thrive and the whole organisation gets behind an opportunity, whether it be an engineering opportunity or material development or robotic solution, and they help bring that to life.”

RECYCLING AND ‘SUSTAINABILITY’ “Our composite materials are fully recyclable, so any waste that’s generated during the process can be reused and recycled into new products,” confirmed Arrival head of sustainability Jon Steel.

“We’re doing this from the two kinds of sources of waste. There are materials that come from off-cuts from the ply cutter and materials that come from the trimming process, once the material has been moulded. Both of these material [sources] have the potential to

Top:

Arrival has partnered with UK’s First Bus to trial its bus on public roads.

Above:

The bus has been designed to have more standing space and for passengers to travel more comfortably.

Opposite, Middle:

Arrival microfactory in action. Pic

courtesy from Arrival video YouTube

Arrival was founded in 2015 with a mission to make air clean by replacing all vehicles with affordable electric solutions produced by local microfactories, it states.

Six years and more than 2,000 people later, Arrival is driving the transition to EVs globally by creating products that are zero-emission, more desirable, more sustainable and more equitable than ever before, it says.

Its in-house technologies enable its radical new method of design and production using rapidly scalable, local microfactories around the world, it confirms. This method facilitates cities and governments in achieving their sustainability goals whilst also supercharging their communities, it states.

“We are a technology company, a product company, a supply chain company, an automotive company, a mobility company, a fintech company and a service company – all rolled into one with a shared goal of true sustainability,” it outlines.

“This vertically integrated business model is how we can have the radical impact our world needs today,” it adds.

Arrival (NASDAQ: ARVL) is a joint stock company governed by Luxembourg law.

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OPERATOR

INTERLINE NSW

HOLD THE LINE

Part of one of the most known Australian bus families in the industry – with a dynasty of nearly 60 years – Joe Oliveri and his NSW Interline operation isn’t just embracing e-mobility … he’s smashing it!

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T

ime waits for no man, or so the saying goes, and when it comes to changing technology and the thought of being left behind in the bus game, certain operators have moved pretty fast to ensure they are ahead of the pack.

Not that there’s all-out competition; that would be probably welcomed these days by bus companies like Sydney

Region 2 operator Interline based at Macquarie Fields, NSW, because it would mean the focus of interaction would be with bus peers, whereas now it seems dominated by various state governments and red tape and bureaucracy, many operators will confess … secretly.

Alas, it is the way modern busing is as the push for electrification rolls out, and those operators that choose to endeavour in the bus game – as opposed to selling

or shutting up shop – are needing to stay right across the latest technical developments to ensure that what they want to choose is best for them, even if the guidelines and advice from others is old or flawed and ‘those experts’ just don’t care to admit it.

Interline managing director Joe Oliveri is one such person, well ahead of the pace even when he’s setting it. And, since the launch of his first e-bus in February, 2021, busnews.com.au February 2022 ABC

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OPERATOR

INTERLINE NSW

things have rapidly progressed.

“We now have 13 e-buses, not on trial but they are actually doing full services and they are performing as expected,” Oliveri said.

“The only rare exception is, when they go out without a full charge, we have found that drivers tamper with the air-conditioning setting – but that has been rectified,” he explained.

“That is, the driver turned the temp down to 16 degrees and we were wondering why this bus all of sudden was using more energy than before.

“Set back to 22.5 and energy consumption back to normal,” he added.

So, drivers are liking e-buses that much they are getting involved with the finetuning of temps?

“Drivers that take EYs out have no complaints; the only complaints I have heard is why did you take the bus off me?” Oliveri joked.

SUPER STRUCTURE Interline Bus Services has a rich history dating nearly 60 years.

Bus service operation has been the passion and livelihood of the 46

We now have 13 e-buses, not on trial but they are actually doing full services and they are performing as expected.

Opposite: Interline managing director Joe Oliveri.

Above: Interline is running 13 electric buses on its Sydney Region 2 bus routes.

Right: The only complaints from the electric bus’ drivers is that they don’t want to drive anything else.

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Oliveri family since 1954, when the family collectively purchased Route 41 – Green Valley to/from Liverpool Station, in Sydney.

“The first bus service was in Green Valley and the rest is history,” Oliveri said.

In 2014, the NSW government re-tendered bus services across four Sydney metropolitan regions and Interline was successful in obtaining the contract to operate in Region 2, servicing the Liverpool, Glenfield, Ingleburn, Bringelly and Hoxton Park regions. Region 2 is actually a combination of three original family services – just a bit

of bus trivia there for you.

Today, Interline operates a modern fleet of more than 110 buses from two depots at Macquarie Fields and Leppington across 25 bus routes contracted to Transport for NSW, it confirms.

In January, 2018, a new on-demand service commenced operation called Interline Connect.

As the company explains, its customers can download the Interline Connect App and then book a bus that will pick them up from their location and take them to the Edmondson Park Railway Station.

G&C OLIVERI GROUP The Oliveris are well-known in the Australian bus transit sector. The business was set up by Giovanni Oliveri and his brothers in the early 1950s. As the business expanded and families grew, they branched out in different directions within the transport sector.

In 1992, Giovanni and his wife, Caterina Oliveri, and their five children separated from the other Oliveris to set up their own businesses under the G&C Oliveri Group.

Today, the five siblings – Joe Oliveri, Frank Oliveri, Carmel Faruggia, Domenica Sprock and Frances Oliveri – make up the board of directors of Southern Cross Transit, as well as Sydney-based Interline Bus Service. The sole shareholder is their mother, Caterina. Frank is the managing director of Southern Cross Transit, while big brother Joe is the managing director of Interline. Carmel is the finance and admin director, while Domenica and Frances share administrative duties, the group confirms.

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OPERATOR

INTERLINE NSW

There can be only one boss and that should be made clear from day one.

Above: There are no regrets for this dyed in the wool bus fan who is “always in bus mode”.

Below: Interline is based in Macquarie Fields, NSW. Opposite: In February, 2021, Interline received its first electric bus ­– a BCI Citirider E.

In February, 2021, Interline received its first electric bus ­– a BCI Citirider E – launched at Leppington Station. It was the first of a fleet of 10 electric buses being delivered in 2021–22, which has increased to 13 presently.

As for its history in Queensland, as previously reported in ABC magazine, in August, 2002, the Oliveri family acquired the services and assets of Southern Cross Transit in Karana Downs. Here it operates a network of school buses in the western suburbs of Brisbane

and Ipswich with a modern fleet of over 35 buses and coaches, it explains.

TIME TO CHANGE So, with some much changing and so many bus families choosing how to best deal with such, is there any known camaraderie between long-standing Aussie bus families in such a changing bus world?

Or is everyone just doing their own thing and keeping to themselves?

“Some family businesses have moved on and we are resisting the many offers to sell,” Oliveri explained.

“There are times when us family company owners talk, but there is always that silly thing where people usually think others are trying to

get information to try and tender against you, so everyone is maybe very quiet these days.

“In the old days we shared all the info and stuck together [as family businesses],” Oliveri explained.

“And, just for the record, no government wanted to know about bus services in the south-west of Sydney.

“It’s a long bitter story how tenders in Sydney were allowed to go ahead and not many operators put up a fight,” he revealed.

GOOD OLD DAYS With so much going for the average Australasian family bus operator these days, we asked Oliveri what the top things were about a changing industry and what are things that he totally missed and wishes would come back.

“For the first part, more government control; and, secondly, technology moving faster than the government can handle,” he explained.

“What do I miss? The 48

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INTERLINE CONNECT

Interline Connect On Demand public transport service allows people to reach their destinations quickly, safely and efficiently at a time that suits them, the company explains.

The trial service connects commuters from a pick-up point within 300 metres of their Region 2 home and Edmondson Park Railway Station. The service operates Monday to Friday during morning and afternoon peak hours.

This is a new concept being trialled in conjunction with Transport for NSW to connect customers to the public transport network, Interline states. The service is simple to use with bookings available via the Interline Connect app, it adds. Once a trip has been booked, commuters can track the bus as it travels to the passenger’s preferred pick-up point.

customer-focused running of areas, and the focus we had way before other stuff got involved.

“I long for old-school-type bus services to return, but that will never happen realistically.

“Also, I miss talking to your neighbour operator to get the best outcome for all customers and allowing the customer interacting with drivers again; the on-time running regime overshadows customer relations,” he explained.

general and what lessons or regrets he may have: “Well, that is a good question.

I guess ‘If you do not enjoy the way you make your living, find what you enjoy and do it’ – life can, and should be, exciting.

“Also, there can be only one leader and that should be made clear from day one, and to ‘embrace technology and innovation will follow’,” he said.

When he’s not in ‘bus mode’ what does the owner of one of Australia’s most successful bus operations do for fun or has as a hobby?

“Hanging with friends and family – and guess what! I’m always in ‘bus mode’. It’s the job I enjoy. What you see is what you get,” he stated.

ABOUT INTERLINE LESSONS LEARNED Oliveri says, when it comes to what the industry has taught him about life in

Interline Bus Services in NSW Region 2 provides school and route bus services in Campbelltown, Minto, Raby, Macquarie

Fields, Ingleburn, Bow Bowing and Liverpool, it states. The company offers a comprehensive range of services for group travel needs, such as: School transfer within Region 2; single and multiple hire; one-day school excursions; local charters, one way and return.

It is a family based company with three generations of experience and Interline Bus Services has been providing services in Campbelltown and Liverpool for nearly 60 years.

Its fleet consists of the latest, state-of-the-art, low-floor buses, ensuring full accessibility for all of its passengers, it says.

Interline is a proud member of BusNSW and an accredited operator with Transport for NSW. It offers competitive rates without compromise and a level of service to the highest standards, it confirms. busnews.com.au February 2022 ABC

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OPERATOR

ZEDLINE

A LONG ROAD AHEAD Ziko and Luka started their bus hire business Zedline with a new Irizar coach less than two years before the pandemic began. Until operations were crippled during the first lockdown, the father and son team had got off on the right foot. As business slowly resumes, the two men remain driven and as positive as ever.

WORDS ANJALI BEHL IMAGES BEN HOSKING

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OPERATOR

ZEDLINE

Australia gives an opportunity to be something and to make something of yourself, and that’s exactly what we did.

Right: Ziko Mijic (pictured) and his son, Luka Nikolic (not present on the day photos were taken), set up Zedline in April, 2018.

Above: Covid had a large impact on Zedline’s business, but the father and son team have high hopes for a resurgence in coach travel.

Below: Ziko Mijic has been working in Australian transport for the past 15 years.

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F

ather and son duo Ziko Mijic (57) and Luka Nikolic (30) entered the bus-hire business with a bang in April, 2018. A look at their swanky Irizar three-axle coach on an Iveco chassis will tell you what we mean. The 57-seater features bespoke leather seats in striking red and blue, three TVs, dual-zone air conditioning, steerable rear axle, extra-large underfloor bins, rear toilet and alloy rims.

Emigrating from Croatia in 1995 to escape the Yugoslav Wars, the Serbian-background family arrived in Australia in 1999. Luka’s parents didn’t speak English at the time and relied

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on him their nine-year-old son to translate for them as they navigated through a new life in a faraway land.

“It took me three months to learn the language and things became easier for our family when, in a couple of years, my father started slowly learning the English language too,” said Luka.

“Moving to Australia had made me appreciate being here and realise just how lucky we were to be in a country like this, with so many opportunities. Australia gives an opportunity to be something and to make something of yourself, and that’s exactly what we did. Obviously, there’s a long way to go, but that’s part of the process.

“My father has been working in transport for the past 15 years since moving to Australia. He is very competent; he is a quick learner and knows how to adapt to new situations swiftly. After a few years of working different jobs, he found steady work as a driver with a transport company and, eventually, cemented himself as one of the top drivers before the two of us started our own business together.”

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OPERATOR

ZEDLINE

THE BEGINNING “By 2018, my father had reached a point in his career where he was looking for a new challenge and thinking what he could do next,” Luka continued.

“He was looking for a change and we talked about potentially starting a bus and coach business together. I remember, his eyes just lit up at that moment. He asked me if I would really be interested in running a business with him.

“Up until that time I was working as a health and safety manager in a large transport company and, after thinking for a bit, I decided I had nothing to lose and we both went out for it.”

The duo set up Zedline Pty Above: Zedline’s sole coach is this Irizar threeaxle on an Iveco chassis, but there are plans to expand.

Left: Zedline is a family run business with the family focus at its core.

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Working for ourselves gives us a sense of accomplishment to see what we have achieved so far from where we came.

Ltd in Sydney’s western suburbs after buying the Irizar coach with Ziko’s savings. Currently, they are running the operation with that one coach, but have plans to buy another one in the immediate future. Luka, who is the operations manager, takes care of the day-to-day running of the business, while Ziko, who is the director of Zedline, drives the coach.

Zedline offers bus hire for short and long distances, intercity trips between Sydney and Melbourne, and school excursions including sports, camps and day excursions throughout New South Wales.

“Our business was built upon strong family values,” said Luka.

“We truly understand the importance of customer service.

This isn’t just a business to us, it’s our family, and the service you receive reflects that. We pride ourselves on the dependable service we offer to our clients.

“Our fleet is well maintained and subjected to regular scheduled checks and road-worthiness tests.

We perform additional service and pre-emptive checks as and when needed to ensure your

safety and offer trusting service.”

Over the years, Ziko and Luka have made sure their small business is not only operating with a safetyfirst approach, but also meets all the requirements of transport regulations including the Transport for NSW Accreditation Scheme and the Australian Tourism Quality Assured Accreditation (TQUAL) certification.

OPERATIONS Pre-Covid, Zedline offered private coach hire, community group events and excursions, corporate travel and events hire, wedding charter service, school excursions and camps for a range of education facilities across Sydney and NSW, sports team bus hire, and sightseeing tours for day trips to the Hunter Valley, Blue Mountains, Jenolan Caves, Wollongong, Newcastle, Kangaroo Valley and some other locations.

These days, however, operations are focused primarily on school tours, with most of the work being subcontracting to a larger provider.

As with most bus and coach businesses, Covid was a big blow to Zedline’s operations.

From working every day before Covid, when the first lockdown happened, Zedline was practically shut for that period.

While work started coming back gradually, around September 2020, when the second lockdown hit, the wheels of the bus stopped again.

“JobKeeper helped us to remain afloat until the market opened up a bit,” said Luka.

“The fact that my old man had saved enough to be able to buy the coach outright meant we didn’t have any other significant debts to our business.

“Even now, operations are not where we’d like them to be. We’re operating at 15–20 per cent of where we started. However, maybe in the next six months if we learn to live with Covid, people might have a bit more confidence in going out and, hopefully, that will bring the market up a bit.

“Covid has made everything so much more unpredictable, but my father and I have always been very ambitious and driven individuals.

“Working for ourselves gives us a sense of accomplishment to see what we have achieved so far from where we came and where we started.

“As of now, our intention is to get one more bus and go from there.

“The aim is to expand as much as possible in the future.” busnews.com.au February 2022 ABC

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FEATURE

BLK PRESIDENT 2

FREE-WORLD LEADER As Australian bus distributor BLK Auto rolls out its hydrogen bus range, a new President 2 coach – or body for selected OEM chassis of choice – has just hit the local market, the company has announced.

I

t was a pretty good-looking coach body to begin with, but in the modern age with a new range of drive types for operators to choose from, eventually at least – diesel, hydrogen and electric – the popular BLK President 2 2022 update has just been released onto the Australian bus market.

BLK Auto confirms that it can supply the new President 2 as a completely built unit (CBU), or just as a body for application to the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) chassis of a bus operator’s choice.

While overwhelmingly the best characteristics of the previous President 2 have been maintained, it’s the strikingly stylish and new modern front end treatment that first catches the eye to

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discerning fans and sets the tone for the rest of the new President 2 experience.

The slimline quad-light LED look of the front bumper is smartly connected with a joining ‘bejewelled-look smile’ of similar design and almost thin and chic eyebrows above each set of globes.

Upon approach to the entrance, a diagonal chrome highlight connects upwards to the flanks to underline the horizontal windowsills, all the way to the new back end.

Here, the funky ‘italicised’ rear lights punctuate each side below the beautifully rounded and edges as it reaches up to the roofline. Engine ventilation is facilitated at the rear-right flank by an almost rhombus-shaped grille area.

FIRST DROP As the rollout of the new President 2 begins, early adopters are already big fans and are sure their passengers’ travel experiences will only be enhanced via such a good-looking coach, they say.

Queensland operator Blue Bus Tours has already picked up its first and has nothing but praise for the new model thus far.

Blue Bus Tours offers short and extended accommodated coach tours throughout Australia, and its owners, the Jacob family, were thrilled to launch their new luxury President 2 tour coach.

This adds to a fleet that allows them to transport their passengers in style and comfort to the special places they hold

was purchased recently from BLK Auto, based in Queensland.

The solid relationship has been based on the support received from BLK Auto’s spare parts and service department, Blue Bus confirms.

SUCCESSFUL LAUNCH

dear in their hearts – the beauty that is ‘off the beaten track’ in Australia, the company explains.

Blue Bus owners Geoff and Sandra Jacobs said: “We decided to go with the new BLK President 2 as it had all the features we needed plus extras at a very competitive price.

“The aftersales service and extensive spare parts range held [at BLK Auto] was another factor in our decision on choosing the new BLK President 2,” they explained.

Blue Bus has purchased a second BCI-badged (BLK-built) coach in the past, but this is the first fully BLKbuilt coach for the operator, which

After the successful launch of Australia’s first hydrogen fuel cell (HFC) President 2 coach late last year, BLK Auto is now striving ahead in providing bus operators both a modern fleet and choice of running systems, it states.

With a further nine HFC President 2s departing for their new home in Western Australia, BLK Auto is actively showcasing the new-look President 2 across Australia (as pictured). The new BLK President 2 front end is modern and boasts LED lighting, including a bold new centre LED backlight section that brings the new model into, “…the next era of coach design,” BLK Auto explains.

Above: BLK Auto offers the President 2 and President 3 with options for diesel, batteryelectric or hydrogen fuel cell.

Left: The funky ‘italicised’ rear lights punctuate each side below the beautifully rounded edgeless.

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FEATURE

BLK PRESIDENT 2

The coach is a favourite of many operators due to its comfort, excellent build quality and high-spec features.

Above: Blue Bus Tours’ President 2 has 53 Sege reclining coach seats with tray tables and USB connection point.

Opposite, Top: BLK Auto says the new President 2 is, “...the next era of coach design”.

Opposite, Below: MAN recently supplied a chassis for a new President 2 body.

Below: Strikingly stylish, the President’s design draws the eye.

58

“The coach is a favourite of many operators due to its comfort, excellent build quality and high spec features,” said BLK Auto managing director Jason Pecotic.

“As a boutique manufacturer, BLK Auto offers the President 2 [two-axle] and President 3 [three axle] not only in traditional diesel, but also as battery-electric [BE] or as a HFC option,” Pecotic was keen to point out.

“It has had positive pre-launch verbal feedback from longstanding President 2 users, who have viewed and test driven the newly styled version, and they’ve come away impressed, believing it should be well received by industry for multiple applications

ABC February 2022 busnews.com.au

like touring, day charters and school charters,” he added.

“I am proud to be able to showcase our new President 2 Coach to the Australian bus industry. The new modern enhanced styling of this coach is central to our zero emission future strategy as we offer this coach not only in the traditional diesel, but also with our new BEV and HFC options.

“BLK Auto is also aligning this new look with our chassis partners to provide operators with our new modern look.”

BATTERY ELECTRIC Additionally, BLK Auto is excited to confirm that it has two President 3 BEVs in build and due to arrive in Australia in July for a major customer, which it could not name at this point due to confidentially.

BLK Auto says it worked very closely with several leading bus operators and other industry experts in developing a BEV coach to suit the tough Australian market.

“We purposely positioned the batteries in the undercarriage to ensure a smooth ride, but also maintaining the aesthetic appearance,” Pecotic stated.

The approach by BLK Auto to partner with other vendors is typified via MAN recently supplying a chassis for a new President 2 body.

“This collaborative approach is further extended with BLK Auto also working with Australian body builders to place their body on a BLK chassis,” Pecotic explained.

Specs MAKE: BLK MODEL: 2022 President 2 (for Blue Bus Tours) BODY/CHASSIS: Australian ‘Duragal’ galvanised steel ENGINE: Cummins E5 ISL360 TRANSMISSION: Allison T390R six-speed automatic with retarder AXLES: ZF front and rear WHEELS: Alloy FUEL TANK: 400 litres SEATS: 53 Sege reclining coach seats with tray tables and USB connection point; body is wheelchair lift equipped; Isri driver’s seat MISC.: Aircon – Spheros C355 auto heat/cool with bock compressor plus separate driver’s A/C; large underfloor luggage bins; domino-style luggage racks; reverse camera; cruise control; and more.

busnews.com.au February 2022 ABC

59

FEATURE

1963 DENNING RESTORATION

BOUND FOR GLORY

An endearing 1963 Denning owned by an Australian transport industry legend and used to provide The Apple Isle’s Cradle Mountain shuttle bus service for nearly 50 years has been lovingly restored, the Tasmanian Bus and Coach Society has revealed.

A

60

WORDS FABIAN COTTER IMAGES COURTESY TBCS ccording to society secretary Neil Robins, to whom ABC magazine spoke with exclusively, recently, restoring the

ABC February 2022 busnews.com.au

Denning would be the group’s biggest challenge to date.

Describing the scene prior to restoration, Robins explained: “On a desolate property north of Devonport on Tasmania’s

north-west coast sat a coach for almost 20 years, deteriorating from the salt air blasting off Bass Strait across the road.

“It had become an icon – a sight always seen by everyone as they traversed the

Left: The restored bus launched 14 January 2022, after being unveiled

by Maxwell family members.

Top: The Denning was built new for the Greyhound Australia fleet.

Above: By 2011, the bus had been rusting in a paddock for 19 years.

Bass Highway between Devonport and Ulverstone.

“It was this attraction that led the Tasmanian Bus and Coach Society to include a visit to the property on one of their annual enthusiast tours in 2011.

“This led to a long relationship with the owner, as after the tour the vehicle was donated for restoration – an arduous task that took more than eight years to complete,” he confirmed.

Owned by Dennis Maxwell (R.I.P. 1936–2020), a legend in the industry and well loved by everyone who met him, he and his wife, Jeanette, operated the Cradle Mountain shuttle service into Tasmania’s wilderness for close on 50 years.

A WORTHY CHALLENGE In explaining the difficulty in restoring such a bus, in terms of rust and weather damage, reconstruction of the framework and parts needing to be retrieved, remade or restored, Robins commented: “The Tasmanian Bus and Coach Society embarked on its biggest challenge ever. We had already, in our short existence, received international

acclaim for our restoration of the first low-floor Scania city bus in Australia, and for our well-organised annual tours across the state, but this was a restoration like no other, as we discovered over the next eight years.”

Built in 1963, Denning build #39 was one of 11 Denning coaches built in this particular style, Robins explains.

Designed by Russell Penfold and built

by Alan Denning – who travelled together to the US to study body designs – of the 11 built, only five were built on an AEC chassis, and it is believed this example is the last one in existence in Australia, he added.

Greyhound spec’d the bigger 570 engine; however, Maxwell would later re-power it with a 691 AEC to “tame Tassie’s mountains and keep up with the Dennings of the day”, Robins recalled.

Built new for Greyhound Australia (fleet #52), the coach was one of three built specifically for the Brisbane-to-Toowoomba service (#52–#54). From the outset there were issues, though, Robins explained – especially as they climbed the Toowoomba Ranges. The coaches kept splitting fuel lines and spitting fuel onto the exhaust – so much so it was organised for a fire truck to follow them up the range, he said.

A larger fuel pump was fitted, which resolved the issue. However, other problems were then encountered with the vehicles overheating. The body consequently had holes cut into the fibreglass to allow better airflow to the engine, Robins said. Even with these early setbacks, this particular coach operated busnews.com.au February 2022 ABC

61

FEATURE

1963 DENNING RESTORATION

ABOUT TBCS The Tasmanian Bus & Coach Society is the only living museum in Australia, taking its heritage exhibits around the state for all the public to enjoy. This coach will complement its small fleet of historic vehicles, giving an insight into the man, his contribution and of simpler times when coach travel was at a slower pace without all the modern conveniences/technology.

Top (L-R): Once some panels were removed the huge size of the task became clear; Salty sea air from the Bass Strait had taken its toll.

Above (L-R): This piece of Aussie bus heritage has been preserved; The Tasmanian Community Fund contributed $50,000 to the restoration.

Opposite: Dennis Maxwell with Neil Robins, receiving a Certificate of Appreciation; Fifty years of paint had to be rubbed off, recycled panels repaired and new panels acquired.

62

for Greyhound for around nine years before passing to Parlorcars in Victoria.

KING OF THE MOUNTAINS Here, the coach only saw a short stint before changing hands again, this time to Centralian Tours. Maxwell at that time (with other operators in Tasmania) were subcontracted to do the Tasmanian component of Centralian Tours, Robins stated.

Maxwell Coaches operated the exclusive shuttle service into the pristine wilderness area of Cradle Mountain; a contract the operator held for close on 50 years.

He was known as ‘King of the Mountains’, as testified by

ABC February 2022 busnews.com.au

the signwriting on the front.

He acquired AEC#52 (an old Greyhound fleet number) in 1974 whilst subcontracting for Centralian Tours. Unfortunately, Centralian went broke in 1974, so Maxwell acquired the vehicle for monies owed. He operated this coach for the next 18 years, with extended tours, school charter and the shuttle into Cradle Mountain before ‘retiring’ the coach in a paddock on his property in 1992. It was a further 19 years before it saw use again.

A SLOW START It took two years after the coach was acquired for the society to finally secure undercover storage in Hobart – as was agreed with Maxwell as a condition of the handover, with bullbar mandated to remain intact – with the coach transported on a tilt-tray.

Once some panels were removed, even society member Grant Wise – an experienced welder, who worked for Ansair in Kingston until

1996 – realised the restoration was too big for him or the society to tackle, as they really had no facilities to undertake the massive task, let alone the funds.

Some in the society wanted to return the coach to Maxwell; however, 40-year bus industry veteran Robins didn’t feel handing back the donation in pieces was a good look.

In the years following, eventual-secretary Robins started formulating grant applications to secure funds to commence restoration by a professional. Early applications were refused until, finally – after the fourth attempt – the Tasmanian Community Fund (TCF) offered to partially cover the restoration. After the society disclosed the majority of the restoration involved reconstruction of the framework, which had deteriorated considerably from the salt air directly off Bass Strait, the TCF agreed to fund the project to the tune of $50,000.

It had become an icon – a sight always seen by everyone as they traversed the Bass Highway between Devonport and Ulverstone.

This amount would only fund the new framework, though; society members would have to absorb the labour costs to disassemble the coach and reassemble once the new framework was constructed.

Considering no member had real bus-building experience other than Wise, who had left by then, this undertaking was going to be massively daunting, Robins recalled.

Local bus operator Tasmanian Redline generously offered undercover storage not only for the parts to be stored, but also a small corner of its depot to allow space for disassembly/assembly. Whilst other organisations had many bus building companies to call on for assistance, Tasmania only has one such business, and it was already reconstructing the identical framework – with most panels recycled.

THE BREAKDOWN Disassembly took almost 18 months before the coach was driven across the road to Havnadip Bus Repairs. Here, the restoration got serious, with a professional bus building/repair business undertaking the complex and major restoration work, Robins explained.

The reconstruction of all framework below the roofline, rebuilding luggage compartments, new front steps, window frames, windscreen supports and rear boot, took approximately three months to complete.

Come May, 2018, the coach returned to Redline, where society volunteers were faced with the painstaking task of rebuilding this massive jigsaw puzzle.

This would take 3.5 years – not helped by the Covid outbreak, he stated.

Ultimately, the coach was to be

completed in 2020, in time to take it to Echuca for the National Denning Muster, with Dennis Maxwell himself driving it.

He had been quite ill, though, and this project and aim was an incentive for him to continue, Robins explained. With the rarity of the coach it would have been a highlight for Maxwell and the Muster – and with his gift of the gab he would have been in his element. But the event, an eventual victim of Covid, was cancelled and, unfortunately, Maxwell lost his battle for life in October, 2020.

Disappointingly, though, not seeing the finished project, Maxwell was instrumental in sourcing parts whilst he busnews.com.au February 2022 ABC

63

FEATURE

1963 DENNING RESTORATION

Maxwell Coaches operated the exclusive shuttle service into the pristine wilderness area of Cradle Mountain; a contract the operator held for close on 50 years.

was alive and was always there for advice and directions.

In anticipated remembrance of him, it was only fitting the society made him an honorary life member in August, 2020.

THE CHALLENGES As mentioned, society members were by no means professionals.

They had their own unique skills, but none in dealing with bus/coach building.

Member Daniel Biedka, a chippy, was instrumental in reattaching the external panels and fitting window frames, in part because of his OCD and detail to perfection.

It was his passion that led the restoration project.

Fifty years of paint had to be rubbed off, recycled panels repaired and new panels acquired, as some were unsalvageable. This is where Tassie community spirit 64

from businesses across the state kicked in. New lower panels were fabricated, new vinyl supplied, cheap marine ply for new flooring and an offer to provide labour for free all availed themselves. With lack of additional funds, these offers were very much appreciated, Robins stated.

The local Hazell Bros Group (which restores its own vehicles and originally operated Hobart Coaches) allowed access to its undercover premises for the completion of the project and invaluable assistance with minor problems the project encountered in the final stages.

The finished product is testament to the passion, dedication and attention to detail that drove the restoration of this rare piece of Australian bus history.

THE JOURNEY Maxwell’s first school run was

ABC February 2022 busnews.com.au

Above: The coach was one of three built specifically for the Brisbaneto-Toowoomba service.

bought in 1964, utilising a 1958 Mercedes-Benz 319L with 46hp (34kW) and seating for 16 – a contract they held for 46 years.

They also operated extended tours around Tasmania, along with school charters, freight and mail/school contracts on the north-west coast.

At an anniversary party held in Devonport to commemorate their 50 years in the industry, Maxwell’s peers and previous employees attended, reminiscing of the good old days, without a single bad word for the little fella. He may have been small in status but, when he entered a room, his booming voice made everyone in the industry sit up and take notice.

Maxwell had already been recognised for his contribution to the industry and promotion of Tasmanian tourism for well over 60 years, by being inducted into the Australian National Transport Hall of Fame in 2015. This project is a legacy for the family and their role they played in supporting him.

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DELIVERIES

JANUARY 2022

Fair start to the new year Bus deliveries in 2022 start modestly, but with promise after bumper 2021 finish.

W

e are out of the gates for 2022 and after a dramatic past year – where deliveries saw a huge drop and then surged back for December – January’s total of 86 is a quieter start, but hopefully a sign of increasing stability.

In the chassis sector, Volvo and Yutong were neck and neck at the finish line with 20 each – Volvo showing a small drop from December, but Yutong going strength to strength with its highest number since January, 2020. In the middle of the pack Mercedes-Benz comes in at 14 and we welcome Custom Denning to the chassis deliveries with 11 units, matching Scania.

BCI, meanwhile, gained a few on December with a total of seven, while BLK Auto, Challenger and Hino round off the total with one each.

In the body-building sector, Volgren was finally outstripped

by Yutong after five months on top, overcome 20 to 17. Again, a fantastic result for Yutong. Custom Denning brought a strong 12 to the table while Irizar, on 11, is also showing fighting spirit with a total not seen since November, 2020.

Bustech Group dropped back to six after a very strong November and December. Of the rest there is a welcome return from Challenger, which hasn’t supplied delivery data since last August.

In the air conditioning sector, Thermo King remains the reigning champion, but Cling-Yutong

is snapping at its heels with results of 25 and 20, respectively.

Hispacold bounced back to 13 from December’s seven, while Valeo’s 11 – thanks to Custom Denning – brings it back to these pages after a six-month absence. MCC also showed a strong gain, up six from December to reach seven. Coachair saw a large drop from December’s 16 to finish up on six, but was still up on October and November’s totals, while Spheros was up one for a total of four.

At the state level, NSW has knocked Victoria from its lofty December perch with a total of 28 versus 20 and Western Australia is looming in the rear view with 15. South Australia may be in the middle, but its total of nine is its highest since February 2020’s 10, so congrats to SA. Also congratulations to the Northern Territory, which saw the delivery of eight buses – the highest recorded for NT in these pages! Queensland, meanwhile, took a bit of a breather with six after December’s 16.

Turn overleaf for comprehensive bus and coach delivery information for January. Please note all data is as supplied from manufacturers, at their discretion.

In the body-building sector, Volgren was finally outstripped by Yutong after five months on top.

70

ABC February 2022 busnews.com.au

Yutong 20 Volgren 17 Custom Denning 12 Irizar 11 BCI 7 Bustech Group 6

SALES BY BODY

Coach Design 3

In the body-building sector, Volgren was finally outstripped by Yutong after five months on top, overcome 20 to 17. Again, a fantastic result for Yutong. Custom Denning brought a strong 12 to the table while Irizar, on 11, is also showing fighting spirit with a total not seen since November, 2020. Bustech Group dropped back to six after a very strong November and December. Of the rest there is a welcome return from Challenger, which hasn’t supplied delivery data since last August.

Express Coaches 3 Marcopolo 3 Coach Concepts 2 BLK 1 Challenger 1

7% 9%

QLD

NT

33% NSW

In the air conditioning sector, Thermo King remains the reigning champion, but Cling-Yutong is snapping at its heels with results of 25 and 20, respectively. Hispacold bounced back to 13 from December’s seven, while Valeo’s 11 – thanks to Custom Denning – brings it back to these pages after a six-month absence. MCC also showed a strong gain, up six from December to reach seven.

Coachair saw a large drop from December’s 16 to finish up on six, but was still up on October and November’s totals, while Spheros was up one for a total of four.

11% SA

Percentage by

REGION 17% WA

SALES BY AIR-CONDITIONER

Thermo King 25 Cling-Yutong 20 Hispacold 13 Valeo 11

MCC Coachair Spheros

7 6 4

23% VIC

YUTONG 20 VOLVO 20 MERCEDES-BENZ 14 CUSTOM DENNING 11 SCANIA 11

Sales by chassis

BCI 7

In the chassis sector, Volvo and Yutong were neck and neck at the finish line with 20 each – Volvo showing a small drop from December, but Yutong going strength to strength with its highest number since January, 2020. In the middle of the pack Mercedes-Benz comes in at 14 and we welcome Custom Denning to the chassis deliveries with 11 units, matching Scania. BCI, meanwhile, gained a few on December with a total of seven, while BLK Auto, Challenger and Hino round off the total with one each.

BLK 1 CHALLENGER 1 HINO 1

busnews.com.au February 2022 ABC

71

DELIVERIES

JANUARY 2022

BCI

ENGINES

TRANS­M

UNITS

MANUFACTURER, OPERATOR & LOCATION

CHASSIS

Custom Service Lease

NT

2

BCI Fleetmaster

BCI

325

R

Euro 5

A

Bunbury Baptist College

WA

1

BCI Proma

BCI

207

R

Euro 5

A

Australian Transit Enterprises

SA

1

BCI Proma Low Floor

BCI

207

R

Euro 5

A

(Model)

BODY BUILDER

HP*

Rear / Front

Emissions standard

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

Australian Transit Enterprises

SA

1

BCI Citirider

BCI

320

R

Euro 5

A

Go West Tours

WA

2

BCI Fleetmaster

BCI

325

R

Euro 5

A

BLK

Imperial Pacific Coaches

QLD

1

President 2

BLK

360

R

Diesel

A

BUSTECH GROUP

Busways (SBM)

NSW

4

MB OC500RF E6 1930

Bustech Group

–

R

Euro 6

A

DPTI – Dept. of Public Transport Infrastructure

SA

1

Scania K320UB4X2LB Hybrid

Bustech Group

–

R

Euro 6

A

Haddens

VIC

1

Challenger V10 GT

Challenger V10 GT

320

R

–

A

CUSTOM DENNING N/A

NSW

6

Custom Denning Element

Custom Denning

N/A

R

Zero Emissions

N/

N/A

NSW

5

Custom Denning Element

Custom Denning

N/A

R

Zero Emissions

N/

N/A

NSW

1

RN8J

Custom Denning

286

R

Euro 5

CHALLENGER

HINO MERCEDES-BENZ

SCANIA

VOLVO

YUTONG

N/A

NT

3

OC500RF E5 1936

Irizar

360

R

Euro 5

A

N/A

QLD

1

OC500RF/3 E5 2543

Irizar

430

R

Euro 5

A

N/A

QLD

1

OC500RF E5 1936

Irizar

360

R

Euro 5

A

N/A

VIC

1

OC500RF E5 1936

Irizar

360

R

Euro 5

A

N/A

NT

3

OC500RF E5 1936

Volgren

360

R

Euro 5

A

N/A

VIC

1

O500RS

Irizar

360

R

Euro 5

A

NSW

1

K 310 IB4X2

Express Coaches

310

R

Euro 5

A

Coles Coaches Pty. Ltd

BNA Buses Pty Ltd

VIC

1

K 310 IB4X2

Coach Design

310

R

Euro 5

Optic

DPTI – Dept. of Public Transport Infrastructure

SA

1

K 320 UB4X2

Bustech Group

–

R

Euro 6

–

L & SL Bennett Pty Ltd

VIC

1

K 310 IB4X2

Coach Concepts

310

R

Euro 5

A

L C Dyson's Bus Services Pty Ltd

VIC

1

K 310 IB4X2

Irizar

310

R

Euro 5

A

McHarry's Bus Lines

VIC

1

K 310 UB4X2

Express Coaches

310

R

Euro 5

A

Popes Consolidated Bus Lines

VIC

1

K 310 IB4X2

Coach Concepts

310

R

Euro 5

A

Ventura Bus Lines Pty Ltd

VIC

3

K 320 UB4X2

Volgren

320

R

Euro 6

A

Faith Lutheran College Plainland

QLD

1

Volvo B8R

Supportrans/Volgren

330

R

Euro 5

A

Keolis Link SA

SA

1

Volvo B8R

Marcopolo

330

R

Euro 5

A

Keolis Downer

WA

1

Volvo B8R

Irizar

330

R

Euro 5

A

Roadcoach

NSW

1

Volvo B8R

Marcopolo

330

R

Euro 5

A

Kennedys

NSW

1

Volvo B8RLE

Express Coaches

320

R

Euro 6

A

LinkSA Pty Ltd

SA

1

Volvo B8R

Marcopolo

330

R

Euro 5

A

CDC Victoria

VIC

2

Volvo B8RLE

Volgren

330

R

Euro 5

A

Seymour Passenger Service

VIC

1

Volvo B11R

Coach Design

420

R

Euro 5

Volvo

Seymour Passenger Service

VIC

1

Volvo B11R

Coach Design

420

R

Euro 5

Volvo

Grieve Bus Lines

VIC

1

Volvo B8R

Irizar

320

R

Euro 5

A

Willunga Charter

SA

3

Volvo B8R

Volgren/Supportrans

320

R

Euro 5

A

Keolis – Downer / Path Transit

WA

1

Volvo B8R

Irizar

330

R

Euro 5

A

Public Transport Authority

WA

4

Volvo B8RLE

Volgren

320

R

Euro 5

A

Public Transport Authority

WA

1

Volvo B8RLEA

Volgren

320

R

Euro 5

A

WA bus operator

WA

5

D12

Yutong

360

R

Euro 5

A

VIC bus operator

VIC

4

D12

Yutong

360

R

Euro 5

A

NSW

3

D9

Yutong

250

R

Euro 5

A

NSW bus operator

72

A

NSW bus operator

NSW

2

D12

Yutong

360

R

Euro 5

A

NSW bus operator

NSW

3

D7

Yutong

188

F

Euro 6

A

NSW bus operator

NSW

1

E12

Yutong

422kWh

R

Zero emission

A

QLD bus operator

QLD

2

D7

Yutong

160

F

Euro 5

A

ABC February 2022 busnews.com.au

TOTAL DELIVERIES 86

NUMBER OF SEATS

APPLICATION

WHEEL CHAIR LIFT ACCESS

AXLES

TRANS­MISSION

BODY LENGTH

ro 5

A

Allison

2

12.3

MCC

–

X

–

–

X

–

–

Sege

Y

N

ro 5

A

ZF

2

8.8

MCC

X

–

–

–

–

–

X

Sege

Y

N

ro 5

A

ZF

2

8.9

MCC

X

–

–

–

–

–

X

Sege

Y

N

sions dard

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

TRANS MAKE

(metres)

AIR-CON (Brand)

Fixed Coach

Recliners

Metro

Long Distance

Charter

City or Route

School

SEATING

SEAT BELTS

ro 5

A

ZF

2

12.5

MCC

X

–

–

–

–

–

X

Sege

Y

N

ro 5

A

ZF

2

12.3

MCC

–

X

–

–

X

–

–

Sege

Y

N

esel

A

Allison

2

13.2

Spheros

61

–

–

–

X

–

–

Sege

Y

–

ro 6

A

ZF

2

10-12.9

Thermo King

56

–

–

–

–

–

X

Styleride

Y

–

ro 6

A

ZF

2

10-12.9

Hispacold

44

–

–

–

–

X

–

Bendtech/In-house

N

–

–

AS

Cummins

2

10.5

Thermo King

45

–

–

–

–

–

X

Fainsa

Y

–

missions

N/A

N/A

2

12.5

Valeo

N/A

–

43

–

–

X

–

McConnell

N

–

missions

N/A

N/A

2

12.5

Valeo

N/A

–

42

–

–

X

–

Custom Denning

N

–

A

ZF

2

12

Thermo King

57

–

–

–

–

–

X

Styleride

Y

–

ro 5

ro 5

A

ZF Ecolife

2

12.3

Hispacold

57

–

–

–

X

–

–

Sege

Y

N

ro 5

AS

MB

3

13.5

Hispacold

71

–

–

–

–

–

X

Sege

N

N

ro 5

A

ZF Ecolife

2

12.3

Hispacold

57

–

–

–

–

–

X

Sege

–

–

ro 5

A

ZF Ecolife

2

12.3

Hispacold

57

–

–

–

–

–

X

McConnell

Y

N

ro 5

A

ZF Ecolife

2

12.3

Thermo King

57

–

–

–

X

–

X

McConnell

Y

N

ro 5

A

ZF Ecolife

2

12.3

Hispacold

57

–

–

–

–

–

X

SEGE

–

–

ro 5

A

ZF

2

12.3

Thermo King

57

–

–

–

–

–

X

McConnell

Y

–

ro 5

Opticruise

Scania

2

12.5

Thermo King

45

–

–

–

–

–

X

Styleride

Y

–

ro 6

–

Without

–

12.5

Hispacold

43

–

–

–

–

X

–

Precision Bus

–

–

ro 5

A

ZF

2

12.5

Thermo King

57

–

–

–

–

–

X

McConnell

Y

–

ro 5

A

ZF

2

12.3

Hispacold

57

–

–

–

–

–

X

McConnell

Y

–

ro 5

A

ZF

2

12.5

Coachair

–

–

49

–

–

X

–

McConnell

–

–

ro 5

A

ZF

2

12.5

Thermo King

57

–

–

–

–

–

X

Styleride

Y

–

ro 6

A

ZF

2

12.5

Coachair

–

–

47

–

–

x

–

McConnell

–

–

ro 5

A

ZF

2

12.3

Thermo King

57

–

–

–

–

–

X

McConnell

Y

–

ro 5

A

ZF

2

12.5

Spheros

57

–

–

–

–

–

X

–

Y

–

ro 5

A

ZF

2

12.5

Hispacold

57

–

–

–

–

–

X

McConnell

Y

–

ro 5

A

ZF

2

12.5

Spheros

57

–

–

–

X

–

–

Marcopolo

Y

–

ro 6

A

ZF

2

12.5

Thermo King

46

–

–

–

–

X

–

McConnell

Y

–

ro 5

A

ZF

2

10-12.9

Spherous

57

–

–

–

–

–

X

Marcopolo

Y

–

ro 5

A

ZF

2

10-12.9

Coachair

40

–

–

–

X

–

–

McConnell

No

–

ro 5

Volvo I-Shift

I-Shift

2

10-12.9

Thermo King

57

–

–

–

–

–

X

McConnell

Y

–

ro 5

Volvo I-Shift

I-Shift

2

10-12.9

Thermo King

53

–

–

–

–

–

X

McConnell

Y

–

ro 5

A

ZF

2

10-12.9

Hispacold

57

–

–

–

–

–

X

Sege

Y

–

ro 5

A

ZF

3

10-12.9

Thermo King

75

–

–

–

–

–

X

Styleride

Y

–

ro 5

A

ZF

2

10-12.9

Hispacold

57

–

–

–

–

–

X

Styleride

Y

–

ro 5

A

ZF

2

10-12.9

Thermo King

–

–

41

–

–

X

–

McConnell

N

–

ro 5

A

ZF

3

10-12.9

Thermo King

–

–

–

–

–

X

–

McConnell

N

–

ro 5

A

Allison

2

12.4

Cling-Yutong

57

–

–

–

–

–

X

Yutong

Y

N

ro 5

A

Allison

2

12.4

Cling-Yutong

57

–

–

–

–

–

X

Yutong

Y

N

ro 5

A

Allison

2

10

Cling-Yutong

39

–

–

–

X

–

–

Yutong

Y

N

ro 5

A

Allison

2

12.4

Cling-Yutong

57

–

–

–

–

–

X

Yutong

Y

N

ro 6

A

Allison

2

8

Cling-Yutong

28

–

–

–

X

–

–

Yutong

Y

N

mission

A

–

2

12.5

Cling-Yutong

44

–

–

–

–

X

–

Styleride

N

N

ro 5

A

Allison

2

8

Cling-Yutong

28

–

X

–

X

–

–

Yutong

Y

N

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

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&ŽĐƵƐ͗ • >Žǁ ǁĞŝŐŚƚ ƚŽ ŽƉƟŵŝnjĞ ďĂƩĞƌLJ ůŽŶŐĞǀŝƚLJ ;ůŽŶŐĞƌ ƌĂŶŐĞͿ

ƵƌŽƌĂ WƌĂƟĐŽ

• ^ƵƐƚĂŝŶĂďůĞ ŵĂƚĞƌŝĂůƐ ;ƌĞĐLJĐůĂďŝůŝƚLJ ĨŽĐƵƐͿ • ŽƐƚ ĞīĞĐƟǀĞ ƐŽůƵƟŽŶƐ ƚŽ ŵĞĞƚ Ăůů ƌĞƋƵŝƌĞŵĞŶƚƐ

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www.styleride.com.au ABC 414.indd 75

14/2/22 1:47 pm

FUSO ROSA. FROM $131,930

*

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SAFETY FEATURES

ENGINE

OWNERSHIP

ACTIVE BRAKING

129/430 POWER/TORQUE (KW/NM)

5YR/200,000KM WARRANTY

LANE DEPARTURE WARNING

EURO 6 EMISSION STD

15,000KM SERVICE INTERVALS

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*$131,930 price includes GST and is based on MSRP for 2022 Rosa 22-Seat Deluxe Manual, excludes any non-standard options and excludes any state based on-road costs. Servicing is based on 15,000km intervals as per the 2022 Fuso Rosa warranty and service schedule booklet. CPK or ‘Cents Per Kilometer’ figure based on Best Basic Service plan cost over 120,000km. #Warranty terms and conditions apply, 5 year/200,000km, whichever comes first. See an authorised Fuso dealer or our warranty policy at https://www.fuso.com.au/Warranty-Policy for further information. Please note: changes may have been made to the product since this publication went to press (February 2022). The manufacturer reserves the right to make changes to the design, form, colour, and specification of the product. The images shown are to be considered examples only and do not necessarily reflect the actual state of the original vehicles. Fuso is a registered trademark of Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus Corporation Japan and distributed within Australia by Daimler Truck and Bus Australia Pacific Pty Ltd (ABN 86 618 413 282).

FUS010435_Rosa ABC 414.indd 76 Bus Q1 Creative_Best & Fairest_ABC-Feb_FP-Press Ad_210 x 297mm_FA.indd 1

11/2/22 am 14/2/22 10:52 1:48 pm