Australasian Bus & Coach 435 November 2023

ABC

AUSTRALASIAN BUS & COACH

BUSWORLD Expo review WEBFLEET 4G capabilities CONSAT TELEMATICS Grand vision

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IGNITION

SEAN MORTELL – EDITOR

Prioritising passengers With franchising clearly beginning to creep into major Australian metro bus networks, it’s time to put the passengers front of mind to allow public transport to flourish

T

here were many wonderful takeaways that emerged from the recent Bus Industry Confederation (BIC) national conference held in Adelaide in late October and early November.

Alongside the constructive discussions on zero-emissions buses, safety, fire mitigation and industrial relations, one particular message stood out.

John Lee, chair of the NSW Bus Industry Taskforce, discussed the ways in which the state’s bus network had been hampered by a combination of factors, resulting in fragmented services and a lack of network growth into Sydney’s outer suburbs.

Just two years ago, the NSW government decided to franchise the remaining three state transit regions that formed a large portion of Sydney’s bus network. Now, the Victorian government is re-tendering parts of its Melbourne Metropolitan Bus Franchise.

With 30 per cent of the metropolitan route network now set to be put to tender as part of the re-contracting process, it’s hoped that a change in bus contract structure in Melbourne

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ABC November 2023 busnews.com.au

won’t result in the same issues that Lee and his taskforce are trying valiantly to rectify in NSW, such as the race to the bottom.

Following the presentation from Lee, there’s a simple question behind all of this – what about the passengers?

Sydney’s bus network issues, which have mainly resulted from a chronic driver shortage, saw multitudes of services cancelled, leaving patrons stranded at bus stops around the city.

Whether it be through resourcing or problematic operator transitions, this is having a major impact on the number of passengers choosing to hop on metropolitan bus services.

So, what can be done to make bus trips easier, more enjoyable and more efficient?

This busy edition of ABC Magazine focuses on the technology making life easier for people who board Australian buses, with the latest passenger information systems technology empowering passengers on their daily commutes.

Combined with the newest electric bus technology from BYD Australia,

which graces our cover, these innovations are quickly improving the passenger experience. Check out the history of BYD as a global battery and technology force on page 18 and find out the exciting models they are already looking at bringing to Australia.

Hanover Displays is one of many bus and coach companies growing its passenger information capabilities.

Whether it be its TFT screens or its LED destination displays, Hanover is paving the way for more accessible passenger information on page 25.

The likes of Consat Technologies is another business with lofty goals for the Australian transport industry. On page 29, its mission to make urban buses part of a multimodal boom through innovative service and passenger information systems will excite many.

With 3G networks preparing to shut down later this year, Webfleet is once again highlighting the benefits that 4G can have on fleet management systems from page 33, while INIT’s new LIVErtpi solution is another great market entry for passenger information on page 37.

For the operators, Triple D Software has used years of experience working alongside bus and coach companies to deliver a new fleet management software that will save countless hours for many, while NOVO’s next generation of its Safe-Check solution ensures all passengers, old or young, aren’t left behind on buses.

ABC also talks to many global companies with Australian arms about their experience at the recent Busworld fair from page 44 amid another collection of interesting industry and operator features.

As you can tell, there is plenty going on in the sector in the lead-up to the year’s end. We hope you enjoy this month’s range of stories in ABC Magazine.

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contents ISSUE 435 NOVEMBER 2023

FOLLOW US ONLINE AT: Facebook – facebook.com/ABCBusnews YouTube – bit.ly/busandcoachtv Twitter – twitter.com/ABCmag

EDITORIAL COO: Christine Clancy ph: (03) 9690 8766 e-mail: Christine.Clancy@primecreative.com.au Editor: Sean Mortell e-mail: Sean.Mortell@primecreative.com.au Commercial Transport Managing Editor: Luke Applebee e-mail: luke.applebee@primecreative.com.au

PRODUCTION Art Director: Bea Barthelson

PRINTING

37. passenger information systems feature | init INNOVATIVE INFO INIT’s LIVErtpi solution is empowering bus operators to track their whole bus fleet while also giving passengers reliable up-to-date departure information

40. passenger information systems feature | triple d CHANGING THE GAME

After spending years finding out major challenges that Australian operators face, Triple D Software now has an online solution that is set to bring passenger transport software into the 21st century

44 In the know

4. editorial | prioritising passengers

With privatisation clearly beginning to creep into major Australian metro bus networks, it’s time to put the passengers front of mind to allow public transport to flourish

42. passenger information systems feature | novo SAFE BUS, SAFE CHILDREN

NOVO Transport Systems’ latest generation of its popular Safe-Check model has been released, with the system ensuring that no children will be left on buses

44. feature | busworld WORLD FAIR

The global bus and coach industry recently descended on Brussels, Belgium to showcase the latest and greatest technology in the sector

50. feature | father-daughter duo CARING COMBO

8. news | all aboard

Neither Racine nor Emmanuel thought they would be bus drivers in Melbourne, but now the pair is revelling in hopping behind the wheel for Kinetic

features

TasBus is looking towards operators like Metro Tasmania for the next phase of Tasmania’s public transport

An overview of the latest Australasian and international bus and coach news that you need to know

16. cover story | byd GLOBAL FORCE

In under 30 years, BYD has become an international giant in many spheres, including zero-emissions vehicles, rail transit, renewable energy and electronics.

It’s now turning its focus towards the Australian and New Zealand electric bus and coach market

21. feature | assistant minister chat MOVING PARTS

ABC chats to federal assistant transport minister Carol Brown about what the federal government is doing in the realm of safety and sustainability for the local bus and coach industry

25. passenger information systems feature | hanover PASSENGER INFORMATION PROWESS

The Australian arm of Hanover Displays is drawing on more than 35 years of experience and technology with its latest array of passenger information system products

29. passenger information systems feature | consat TRANSPORT GLUE

Having already implemented passenger information systems to Australian transport networks, Consat Telematics now has grander plans in store for the transport industry

33. passenger information systems feature | webfleet TRANSFORMING TELEMATICS

While the 3G network shutdown and switch to 4G may loom as a burden for some operators, Webfleet says the transition will lead the way to improving driver and passenger safety

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ABC November 2023 busnews.com.au

52. column | tasbus STEERING TOWARDS SUSTAINABILITY

Brougham Press

ADVERTISING Trader Group Sales Manager: Asanka Gurusinha ph: 0423 312 298 e-mail: Asanka.Gurusinha@primecreative.com.au Business Development Manager – Bus: Adrian Kos ph: 0413 777 670 e-mail: Adrian.Kos@primecreative.com.au

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53. column | qbic ONE SIZE FITS NONE

QBIC executive director Jason O’Dwyer lists the issues he has with the federal government’s latest industrial relations changes

54. competition | best bus UNDER THE BRIDGE

November’s Best Bus photo competition winner is a stunner of a Nuline Charter bus heading under a Bacchus Marsh bridge

departments

58. bus marketplace | classifieds FOR SALE!

Check out all these great listings from some of the leading bus and coach companies on the planet. Have a look and see what you might find

60. events INDUSTRY EVENTS FOR 2023

Be sure not to miss out on an opportunity for these fantastic in person events

62. factory facts | bus deliveries MONTHLY RESULTS

We have all the latest bus and coach supplier sales data collected and recorded for you review, check out how the market has performed in the past month

66. back seat | news BIRTHDAY BUSES

When Colin Crossley ventured up north to start Whitsunday Transit 25 years ago, he had little idea the impact the operator would have on the local Queensland community

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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.

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NEWS

SEYMOUR BUS OFFICIALLY UNVEILS FIRST VICTORIAN ALL-ELECTRIC BUS NETWORK In a major event held at Seymour Bus, the operator became the first Victorian regional town to open a completely electric local route bus network.

Seymour became the first regional town in Victoria to go with all electric buses, igniting a spark for the first ‘United Nations World Sustainable Transport Day’.

As part of the Victorian government’s Zero Emissions Bus Trial (ZEB), Seymour Passenger Service has celebrated becoming the first regional town in Victoria to operate an all-electric local route bus network.

New Victorian transport minister Gabrielle Williams cut the ribbon at the Seymour Bus depot to commemorate the occasion.

“I’m delighted to be at Seymour to celebrate the success of Victoria’s Zero Emissions Bus trial, which is paving the way for more sustainable transport for the state, and I congratulate the many businesses and stakeholders who have made this possible,” Williams says.

“Having Seymour as the first regional town in Victoria to go ‘all electric’ with their buses is a feather in the cap of the town and a perfect outcome to highlight in the lead up to World Sustainable Transport Day.” Seymour Passenger Services is marking the occasion by igniting the spark with local Seymour schools with an education challenge to 8

engage students in sustainable transport in the lead up to the first United Nations World Sustainable Transport Day on November 26.

Students test their knowledge in sustainable transport with the prize including a depot tour, BBQ – and, of course, a ride on Seymour Passenger Services’ Volvo/Volgren electric bus.

Andrew Chan, Sita Holdings Group general manager and Seymour Passenger Services ZEB lead, attributed the success of the trial to the collaboration of the many stakeholders.

“Building an electric bus network is a technology challenge which can only be achieved through the partnership and cooperation of many stakeholders – from the e-charging infrastructure design and construction to the power supply, the bus manufacturer, software companies and many other key stakeholders,” Chan says.

“Like anything worth doing, this has been a complex and challenging

ABC November 2023 busnews.com.au

Above: The electric bus was unveiled in Seymour Below: Plenty of industry figures attended the historic day

process requiring incredible determination, commitment and collaboration across multiple companies. In the process we have all learnt a lot and it has brought out the great character it takes to get things done. I’d like to thank each of the partners involved.

“In partnership with our project partners, Volvo, Mondo, Sprightly, Volgren, Siemens and EVenergi, we are proud to support our local community to future proof and support our residents with these new renewable energy assets.

“We would like to thank the fellow ZEB bus participants: CDC Victoria, Kinetic Melbourne, Latrobe Valley Bus Lines, Sunbury Coaches, Transit Systems and Ventura Bus for our shared learning approach and the Department of Transport and Planning for championing this important project.”

Siemens Australia CEO Peter Halliday says the trial has been part of the most significant transition in recent history.

“Possibly the most important part of a pilot is to see how the different players collaborate and work together when the chips are down,” Halliday says.

“Pleasingly, our local and global teams have worked closely and collaboratively on this project with Kastoria Bus Lines (Seymour Passenger Services) and will continue to do so. Andrew Chan has been a positive driving force throughout the process.

“The lessons learnt have been an invaluable part of the process and I’m confident that this team approach will pay dividends for Victoria in the long run.”

Volvo Bus Australia general manager Mitch Peden says the brand pleased to be a lead partner in the project.

“Through the partnership with Volvo Bus, Seymour Passenger Services has delivered the latest technologies into their business to service the Seymour community, along with the latest support and training available to enable the highest possible fleet in-service availability and passenger comfort and safety,” Peden says.

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NEWS

LINKSA RETAINS AND EXPANDS BUS FOOTPRINT IN SOUTH AUSTRALIA LinkSA has retained key regional bus contracts in South Australia while also expanding its footprint throughout the state in the latest contract news.

The South Australian Department for Infrastructure and Transport (DIT) has awarded regional contracts to operator LinkSA in Barossa, Fleurieu, Northern Adelaide Hills and Mount Gambier.

These contracts began on October 1 and will run for eight years, with the potential to operate the services until 2035 through contract extensions.

LinkSA is part of the wider Keolis Downer operator group.

“These contract wins serve as a testament to our strong partnership with DIT and focus on service delivery and passenger satisfaction,” Keolis Downer Bus South Australia general manager

Brett Andruszkiewicz says.

Under the Fleurieu contract, LinkSA will improve connections to other transport modes and increase the public transport offer.

New services will be added connecting Adelaide and Goolwa/Victor Harbor to the Kangaroo Island ferry.

LinkSA is also adding two services connecting Adelaide, Goolwa and Victor Harbour through the middle of the day, delivering a much-needed service to the community.

As part of the new contract in Mount Gambier, LinkSA worked with a local recruitment agency to create opportunities for the local community to become bus drivers.

“Recruitment and training of new employees is underway in Mount

Gambier and we are thrilled to welcome new colleagues who also know the local area really well,” Andruszkiewicz says.

“Our team will continue to meet with key stakeholders to address community feedback, as we work in partnership with DIT to deliver better services for the Mount Gambier community.

“Under this contract we will introduce six new buses to deliver an improved service to local communities.

“We also put forward solutions as part of our bid response to DIT to improve the Mount Gambier service.

We look forward to working with local stakeholders and DIT to determine what can be implemented to deliver improved public transport services in Mount Gambier.”

Above right: Joe Calabro was an insturmental part in the success of Surfside Buslines

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QOCS has farewelled one of the state’s greatest bus icons following the sad news.

In a post to its Facebook page in October, the Queensland Omnibus & Coach Society (QOCS) farewelled Joe Calabro.

Calabro has been an Australian bus industry icon, having had an impact on many in Queensland and Australia.

In 1989, Joe and Tony Calabro took over Surfside Buslines from Greyhound (Russell Penfold) with 56 buses in June 1989, followed by a string of acquisitions culminating in the take-over of Sunbus from Transit Australia in April 2008.

ABC November 2023 busnews.com.au

The restructure meant Calabro’s Queensland business came under the Transit Australia Group.

“QOCS is saddened to hear of the sudden passing of icon Joe

Calabro,” QOCS says.

“Our thoughts and condolences are with the Calabro family at this difficult time.”

ABC-FP-5174476-CS-406

QOCS FAREWELLS JOE CALABRO

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NEWS

ALLSTARR COACHES PROVIDES FRESH VEHICLE FOR AUSTRALIAN IDOL

A unique looking coach has been spotted around Melbourne completing a promo run for Australian Idol.

As a staple of local television, Australian Idol is set to go again, with a bus at the centre of its marketing campaign.

In Melbourne, the latest Australian Idol bus was on full display through the CBD as it completed a promotional run.

Operator AllStarr Coaches has provided the coach for the show after the production company behind Australian Idol reached out to AllStarr Coaches managing director Toby Starr.

The coach in shot is a 2020 Scania K410 with a Coach Concepts body.

Over four days, Starr says Kenny’s Signs in Revesby wrapped the coach in the eye-catching exterior for Australian Idol.

Following this, it completed two days of filming at various locations around Sydney before heading down to Fox Studios in Sydney for filming with the contestants and various superstar judges.

After that, the coach went down from Sydney to complete filming in Canberra, Goulburn, Benalla, Melbourne and Kiama.

It’ll then head north to the Gold Coast, Brisbane, Port Stephens and the Hunter Valley to complete its promotional tour for the upcoming season of Australian Idol on national TV.

KINETIC WELCOMES GO-AHEAD EXECUTIVE APPOINTMENT Major Australasian bus and coach operator Kinetic has welcomed the announcement that Go-Ahead has made overseas regarding its group chief executive.

Go-Ahead recently revealed that Globalvia chief investment officer Miguel Ángel Parras has taken over as group chief executive of Go-Ahead from November 1.

Parras will replace Christian Schreyer, who the board says will stand down at the end November.

Schreyer joined Go-Ahead in 2021 and led the business through its move from public to private ownership under Kinetic and Globalvia.

In the 12 months since last year’s takeover, Schreyer has established a new executive leadership team, delivered growth in the bus business and completed the successful divestment of Go-

12

Ahead’s German rail business.

Parras led the acquisition of Go-Ahead for the Globalvia team and has extensive experience in business development and financing investments.

The new Go-Ahead group chief executive will lead the company into its next stage of its development, supported by newly announced bus CEO Matt Carney.

Kinetic Co-CEO Michael Sewards says he’s excited about the future of operator Go-Ahead.

“Over the past 12 months we’ve been extremely impressed by what we’ve seen from the GoAhead team, in particular in the progress on the decarbonisation of bus networks, the incredible mobilisation of bus operations in Manchester and in the worldclass rail operations,” Sewards says.

ABC November 2023 busnews.com.au

“There is clearly a very motivated team proud and passionate about the work they do and the company they work for, and that’s something we know is a fundamental foundation.

“We have every confidence in Miguel supported by an experienced leadership team in driving the company forward as a world-class transport partner globally.”

Above: New GoAhead chief executive Miguel Ángel Parras

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NEWS

THE WOT!?!

IT’S BRITNEY…BUS

NSW BUS INDUSTRY TASKFORCE LAUNCHES WHITE PAPER FOR BETTER BUS SERVICES The NSW Bus Industry Taskforce has released its Directions for On-Street Transit White Paper at the Western Sydney Bus Symposium.

The white paper outlines the key challenges and identifies a way forward in delivering a more equitable provision of bus services for passengers in Western Sydney and across NSW. The NSW government has met with industry, unions and other key stakeholders to discuss the steps that need to be taken to improve reliability and frequency of bus services and discuss planning for new on-road infrastructure, such as bus stops and bus lanes.

The white paper identifies five key moves to transform bus services across the state, including evolving services and infrastructure over time to focus on providing essential services for the growing population demand, as well as growing the network demand and capacity to provide priority access for on-street transit and invest in technology.

The five points also include delivering new permanent high-quality routes by developing a priority list for 39 rapid bus routes in Greater Sydney, growing the city along permanent high-quality routes by identifying on-street transit support for medium-density housing areas and creating funding and partnerships through strategies to support the performance of private operators.

“More than 138 million trips are taken on our bus and on-street transit 14

ABC November 2023 busnews.com.au

network each year, we can’t grow our communities properly if our bus network isn’t meeting demand,” NSW transport minister Jo Haylen says.

“The Bus Industry Taskforce has already announced measures to improve bus service delivery and this white paper highlights five key moves that will be considered for the successful future of our bus fleet.

“We need to look at best practices from all around the world. If other cities like Manhattan and Amsterdam can do it, so can Sydney.

“Everyone is a possible bus passenger, and I am committed to working with industry and experts to make sure on-street transit is front and centre when we talk about city planning.

“The only way we can continue to grow our cities is by supporting that growth with accessible and reliable public transport options for passengers.”

The key challenges the paper aims to address includes increasing public transport access across all growing cities, improving passenger information, better reliability and priority of bus services and tackling congestion to free up public transport movement on roads.

This new vision for transforming how NSW plans and develops cities across Greater Sydney, Lower Hunter and Greater Newcastle, Central Coast and Illawarra-Shoalhaven, will feed into the Bus Industry Taskforce’s interim report that was delivered to government before October 31.

It’s not the usual bus news you’d expect, but a Britney Spears-themed bus was recently slated to hit Sydney roads. As part of a campaign tour for the pop star’s new memoir, the Britney bus was meant to be swerving all around Sydney, stopping at the Opera House to give books to the first 50 fans. However, an update soon revealed that The Woman in Me would not be getting thrown out of a Britney-themed bus, with the pop star left saying ‘Oops – I did it again’.

BUS TRADITION STUMPS YANK An American expat in Australia has taken to social media to express shock at a simple activity that many Aussies do when catching buses. Brooke Laven took to TikTok to say that she loves how passengers say ‘g’day’ to the bus driver and then thank them when disembarking. It may be normal custom for many of us, but for others, it’s caught their attention.

KANGAROO COACH Another uniquely Aussie moment has happened that made many laugh recently, with videos surfacing of a particularly Australian animal waiting patiently for a bus.

The video shows a kangaroo waiting at a bus stop in Brisbane, with a motorist passing by moving fast to capture the particularly stationary marsupial. We hope the kangaroo had its Go Card!

RISKS PAY OFF AT BUSNSW 2023 CONFERENCE The BusNSW 2023 Member Conference was held at the Novotel Wollongong Northbeach on October 4 and 5.

The conference theme, Embracing Transformation for A Sustainable Future, reflected the unprecedented change facing the industry and the need for government, operators and suppliers to work together to create a sustainable future.

Attendance was strong with more than 300 delegates registered for the two days.

“We have a great mix of operators, suppliers and government. I’m also pleased to see strong representation from the tourist and charter sector of the industry,” BusNSW president John King says.

“In these times of change, the importance of the relationship between BusNSW and the NSW government cannot be overstated. I’m pleased to welcome Minister Haylen and Minister Aitchison to the conference. There are also several senior leaders from TfNSW, NHVR and OTSI. “Their attendance really demonstrates a commitment from government and regulators to collaborate with our industry to deliver the best outcomes for passengers and the community.”

Minister for Transport Jo Haylen then took the stage for the NSW government address, outlining her commitment to the sector, her vision for a sustainable future and the government’s focus on delivering for the community.

Following this, the NSW Bus Industry Taskforce chair, John Lee, presented

his view of the challenges facing the industry today, provided an update on the preliminary findings of the taskforce and outlined some key themes emerging for the May 2024 final report.

A panel discussion on taskforce issues included newly appointed TfNSW co-ordinator general, Howard Collins, and safety expert, Darren Lane, who fielded questions from the audience.

After lunch, Professor John Nelson presented findings from a two-year ITLS research study on transport services in rural and regional areas of NSW and how these could be better organised to meet community needs.

Continuing the regional focus, the proceeding session discussed the next generation of rural and regional bus service contracts, and the lessons learned from existing contracting arrangements.

TfNSW acting director rural and regional contracts, Nicolle O’Neill, outlined progress to date on developing new contracts, including adoption of key recommendations from the Taskforce, and engaging with industry to develop a modern “fit for purpose” contract model.

The Transport Connected Bus (TCB)

panel generated a lot of conversation during the Q&As, with TfNSW senior program manager Laith Farouqi welcoming feedback from operators on their experiences with TCB, and opportunities for improving the stage three roll-out of the project. Other panellists provided insights into the day to day use of TCB and the management of transport data.

The final session for day one covered Critical Incident Management, with Nikki Britt facilitating an important discussion on internal investigation and reporting, workforce counselling, media management, public relations and legal considerations following serious incidents.

As the sun shone on Day 2, the BusNSW team welcomed even more delegates to the conference.

Unable to attend personally due to COVID, regional transport and roads minister Jenny Aitchison addressed the crowd via a video message. the minister’s commitment to the industry and regional NSW. Presentations from the conference speakers are available to members on the BusNSW website www.busnsw.com.au.

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15

COVER STORY

BYD

GLOBAL FORCE

In under 30 years, BYD has become an international giant in many spheres, including zero-emissions vehicles, rail transit, renewable energy and electronics. It’s now turning its focus towards the Australian and New Zealand electric bus and coach market WORDS SEAN MORTELL IMAGES BYD AUSTRALIA

B

YD is already well-known for its presence in the global electric car market. Only a fraction of these people familiar with BYD know about its origins in manufacturing batteries for devices. Now, BYD hopes that Australians will soon be familiar with its name when it comes to zero-emissions buses.

“BYD was founded in 1995 as a battery manufacturer, producing batteries for smart phones, tablets and laptops,” BYD Australia commercial vehicles director Jon Tozer told ABC. “With global partners such as Nokia, Apple, Dell, Toshiba, Microsoft, Samsung, Motorola and more, our foundations weren’t in the vehicle game.”

By 2000, the emerging company had become one of the world’s largest producers of safe rechargeable batteries, developing advanced battery systems and patents in the space.

It wasn’t until 2003 that BYD transitioned into the vehicle space when it acquired Xi’an Tsinchuan Auto (now BYD Auto Company Limited). Following popular investments in the coming years, BYD’s automobile business launched in the mid-2000s, delivering thousands of buses, trucks and cars globally.

16

ABC November 2023 busnews.com.au

Two decades after the Tsinchuan acquisition, BYD recorded an annual revenue of $61.7 billion USD, with 57 per cent annual growth in 2022.

“We’re in 400 cities and employ more than 570,000 employees globally,” Tozer says.

“People don’t realise how big BYD actually is – we’re in 70 countries and across six continents.”

The vehicle side of BYD took off in 2008 when the Commercial Vehicles side commenced. It became an essential part of BYD’s four major industries, with technology research and design, application and promotion of new energy vehicles becoming a major focus.

Since this evolution, BYD Commercial Vehicles has developed a complete industrial chain of new energy commercial vehicle products that also expands into planning, commercial sales and aftersales customer service.

BYD’s original growth has been in the automobile market, with its range of electric cars rising to prominence as a more affordable and technologically advanced version in the sector. However, the car sector is just one part of BYD’s overall success in numerous industries around the world.

Its might was on full display in 2020 during the midst of the COVID pandemic. Just three days after COVID first interrupted everyday living, BYD had completed a blueprint for a factory to produce facemasks.

Seven days later, the equipment set up was complete. Within 21 days of COVID, the manufacturing plant was up and running.

By the 24 day mark, BYD had solidified its spot as the global leader of PPE facemask manufacturing, producing more than 100

million masks per day for more than 80 countries.

“BYD had never built facemasks in its life before that moment,” Tozer says.

“It’s these little things that show why BYD is such a powerful global leader.”

BYD has brought this same intensity and passion to creating a variety of bus models for the global market. With more than 70,000 people working in research and design for the company, it’s developed a full range of electric buses ranging from minibuses to double-decker articulated 14.5m vehicles and 12.5m low entry city bus chassis.

With a mission to change the world by creating a complete zero-emissions ecosystem powered by clean energy, BYD has kept bus production central as it continues expanding into trucks, forklifts, sanitation vehicles and rail transit.

Nowadays, BYD globally has many different transit, coach and school bus options for its wide network of operators. This technological development saw BYD announce in April last year that it would focus only on producing electric vehicles, marking the end of production for combustion engine vehicles.

Its hulking presence in the commercial vehicle sector is now purely electric.

“BYD supplies electric buses to major operators around the world such as the Go-Ahead Group, one

of UK’s leading public transport companies, Kinetic, Keolis, Kelsian Group, LTA Singapore, KMB Hong Kong, Alexander Dennis and CDC, a subsidiary of Comfort Del Gro Global,” Tozer says.

“In Australia, we have around 180 buses on the road, partnering with key operators like Transit Systems, Ventura and Kinetic to name a few, while we have a good order book for the rest of the year with our local body builder partners.”

This global growth has required plenty of catching up.

This means BYD has had to continue building factories to accommodate increasing bus and vehicle demands. It now has bus manufacturing facilities in Hungary, the Netherlands, the UK, Brazil, America and China.

At its BYD Global headquarters in the city of Shenzhen, the site includes several factories and an office inspired by the US’ Pentagon building, independent accommodation for workers and its own sporting clubs.

The site is so massive that BYD decided in 2016 to build a SkyRail to get around the BYD HQ business park. Within six months, it had done so, constructing the track and rail cars from scratch despite having no experience in building rail transit.

It was in 2016 that BYD also first forayed into Australia through a tender from airport transport company Carbridge for a Sydney

Airport bus contract. After the sale of Carbridge, the rights for BYD commercial vehicles were transferred before ending at a local agent.

Earlier this year, BYD decided the best way to support its operators going forward was to establish a full factory backed commercial vehicle division that is responsible for bus and truck for Australia and New Zealand markets.

The appointment of Tozer as director of commercial vehicles for BYD Australia was part of this Australian change, having 35 years’ industry experience. Tozer started as an apprentice diesel mechanic with Grenda Bus Service before recently being the business development manager at Volgren.

His experience is helping navigate BYD’s push to introduce more electric buses into the country. While his main focus at the moment is on aftersales, he’s already working to bring some of BYD’s best global innovations to Australia.

This includes the latest vehicles unveiled globally in Busworld in Brussels. In early October, BYD’s stand at the international bus and coach show played host to the premiere of two new electric bus innovations in the BYD eBus B19 and B15.

Alongside the European debut of BYD’s B12 and DD13 double-decker coach, these exciting new entries to the market are set to raise the

Opposite, Top: BYD is already a well known name in many industries around the globe Above: Plenty of big operators world-wide trust the BYD brand Left: BYD has committed to focusing on its Australian and New Zealand operations

busnews.com.au November 2023 ABC

17

COVER STORY

BYD

bar when it comes to electric bus technology.

Tozer says a particularly impressive part of BYD’s Busworld stand was the B12, which is the first chassis to feature the brand’s revolutionary BYD Blade Battery technology.

“The Busworld premiere of the new B12 BYD Blade Battery Chassis was a highlight,” he says.

“It’s an incredible model that’s one tonne lighter than our current chassis and has the ability to have its batteries under the floor line, providing several benefits by significantly lowering the centre of gravity while improving stability and road handling.

“It is a game changer and everyone was raving about the benefits of the new BYD Blade Battery technology.”

The secret behind this weight drop and efficiency boost is in the battery technology. For the first time, BYD’s Blade Battery was on full display in an electric bus.

Unlike bulkier batteries on other electric buses around the world, including BYD’s current models, the BYD Blade Battery is made up of ultra-safe lithium iron phosphate thin blades that can fit into the low floor area of the bus chassis. In the rear of the chassis, the sleek batteries can be halved and stacked on top of each other to add more battery power at a light weight.

As one of the largest battery manufacturers in the world, this evolution is part of BYD’s journey.

BYD battery factories are dedicated to redefining vehicle batteries, with 18

the end result being the latest B12 model that can travel up to 600 kilometres in one charge.

Although Australia won’t see this technology until 2026, it’s a tantalising temptation of what’s to come for the local market.

“The chassis must undergo 18 months of testing before it is released to market here,” Tozer says.

“We’ll start taking orders late next year and in early 2025 before then rolling it out in 2026 to the Australian industry.”

Already the BYD Blade Battery has proven its worth, having easily passed the world-renowned Nail Penetration Test synonymous with batteries. Tozer says this is because the thin blades don’t require as much thermal protection and involve less chemicals, limiting the opportunity for the battery to enter thermal runaway.

BYD is already winning over operators around the world. Last year, massive Norwegian operator Nobina ordered 64 BYD electric buses, while Santiago, Chile received its 800th BYD bus. In early October this year, 2000 electric buses were slated to be delivered

ABC November 2023 busnews.com.au

Above: BYD is innovating when it comes to electric bus batteries Below: BYD’s bus technology is set to continue coming to Australia

into Uzbekistan throughout the next year.

The other benefit is that BYD is the only integral e-drive solution in the bus market, where it designs and manufactures the batteries, drive motors and the control systems of its vehicle, meaning it produces a truly integrated solution with no third party suppliers.

All of this gives Tozer and the newly established BYD Australian team plenty to work with. While the rate of evolution on electric buses may be difficult to keep up with, Tozer says BYD Australia will continue to be at the forefront and work with its customers and local body builders in providing the best solution for the market.

If this focus on Australia matches BYD’s acclaimed advancements in numerous global sectors, including the bus and coach industry, then expect BYD to be a major local player very shortly.

“Since May 2023, BYD has moved into Australia by itself and there’s already so much happening,” Tozer says.

“While we have these products coming with BYD Blade technology onboard, our main focus at BYD Commercial Vehicles Australia and New Zealand is on developing our local aftersales space – already we have a team of seven aftersales engineers and we’re looking at growing the team in the coming months.

“We’ve heard the market and we understand the shortfall provided by our previous arrangement, so we’re going to knuckle down on that side and focus on it so that we can continue providing the best quality service for BYD customers in Australia and New Zealand.”

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MINISTER CAROL BROWN

FEATURE

MOVING PARTS

ABC chats to federal assistant transport minister Carol Brown about what the federal government is doing in the realm of safety and sustainability for the local bus and coach industry

A

s 2023 continues to fly by, the number of challenges facing the nation’s bus and coach industry steadily increase. Whether it be safety issues from recent incidents or the frustrations surrounding the industry’s zero-emissions transition, policymakers and bodies have plenty to think about when it comes to buses and coaches.

With many voices in the sector calling on governments to act on proposed changes, ABC decided to put these challenges to the federal government.

Federal assistant transport minister and senator Carol Brown answered the call, discussing what the federal government is working on when it comes to safety and sustainability with Australia’s bus and coach industry.

SAFETY Safety has been thrust heavily into the spotlight since earlier this year, with the Exford and Hunter Valley bus crashes raising the alarm on safety standards on Australian buses and coaches.

In the months since these incidents, the federal government has reviewed national standards on safety technology in heavy vehicles in line with each state and territory’s own guidelines.

“The federal government is working to reduce road trauma right across the country as part of our commitment ‘Vision Zero’,” Brown told ABC. “Vision Zero is our commitment to no road deaths or serious injuries by 2050.

“Heavy vehicle safety, which incorporates buses, is one of nine priority areas under the National Road Safety Strategy 2021-2030 that Australian governments and other stakeholders are currently implementing.”

This priority area received some more attention following the bus safety incidents that occurred earlier this year.

From Brown and the government’s perspective, this involved a ministerial

roundtable on bus safety that was held recently, courtesy of safety initiatives proposed by family and friends impacted by the Hunter Valley bus crash.

Brown hosted the roundtable, saying it provided an ideal opportunity to bring key bus industry stakeholders together to discuss practical, regulatory vehicle design and behavioural changes to reduce the likelihood of future bus crashes.

Although it was a touchstone moment in bus safety in Australia, Brown is intent on ensuring the roundtable is only the start of important safety discussions for the local bus and coach industry.

“We’ll also continue reviewing, consulting on and updating Australia’s legislated road vehicle standards, also known as Australian Design Rules or ADRs,” Brown says.

“We’ll do so to ensure an acceptable level of safety, emission control and anti-theft protection across all new

vehicles when they are first provided to the Australian market.”

This ADR review is already resulting in various recent advancements made to bolster bus safety in Australia for the future. This includes mandating reversing technologies to reduce the devastating impact of reverse-crash road trauma through ADR 108 and mandating Advanced Emergency Braking Systems to avoid or mitigate the severity of rear-end collisions in ADR 97.

While doing so, Brown says the government is also currently investigating options for implementing new ADRs and supporting regulatory frameworks for the latest technology.

“This includes supporting regulation for lane keeping systems that support vehicles, including buses, to safely stay in their lane,” Brown says.

“We’re also investigating event data recorders, or black boxes, which support crash investigations and follow-ups.”

Heavy vehicle safety, which incorporates buses, is one of nine priority areas under the National Road Safety Strategy 20212030 that Australian governments and other stakeholders are implementing.

busnews.com.au November 2023 ABC

21

FEATURE

MINISTER CAROL BROWN

Safety isn’t just being seen through new technologies – Brown says the government has also prepared an impact analysis on options to increase the width of heavy freight vehicles that include certain safety updates.

“This package of amendments was publicly consulted on in a discussion paper and the department is finalising advice and recommendations for the government,” Brown says.

“At the request of the bus industry at the start of this project, the review hasn’t considered width increase for buses.”

SUSTAINABILITY AND MORE Yet safety isn’t Brown’s and the government’s only focus in the bus and coach sphere. While the ministerial safety roundtable is certainly a major part of recent movements, Brown says the federal government has also been looking into the continual challenge that is the zero-emissions bus transition.

Brown says the government is currently implementing the Euro VI noxious emissions standards for new heavy vehicles.

From November 1 next year, ADR 80/04 will add another layer of sustainability regulation to Australian buses and coaches on the roads.

“This will ensure new heavy vehicles in Australia, including buses and coaches, feature cleaner and more fuel-efficient engines,” Brown says.

“That will provide substantial health benefits to the community and reduce carbon dioxide emissions.”

On top of this, Brown has lifted the lid on a Transport and Infrastructure Next Zero Roadmap and Action Plan that the government is working on. In consultation with stakeholders, the action plan will cover the heavy vehicle sector, including buses and coaches.

The federal government is also supporting making low and zero-emissions buses more affordable and easier to supply and receive for customers.

“We will also work with states and territory governments to deliver projects such as our $125 million commitment to support a new electric bus network for Perth,” Brown says.

“We’ll do this through upgrades to

bus depots and installing charging infrastructure.”

When it comes to the local content of procuring buses, neither the Road Vehicle Standards Act 2018 nor ADRs differentiate between imported and locally made vehicles.

All of this summarises an industry that is busier than ever before. While Brown says the government will continue to look into these areas of safety, technology and sustainability, more processes and developments will keep coming as the federal government maintains its focus on the bus and coach industry’s future.

“Our movements build on a range of processes underway to underpin the broader road transport sector’s transition to zero-emissions technology,” Brown says.

“This includes the development of a Fuel Efficiency Standard (FES) and consideration of Euro 6d for light vehicles.

“Initiatives such as an Australian FES and Euro 6d will not only reduce transport emissions and improve air quality, but give Australians more choice about the cars they can buy while saving them money at the petrol pump.”

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HANOVER

FEATURE

PASSENGER INFORMATION PROWESS

The Australian arm of Hanover Displays is drawing on more than 35 years of experience and technology with its latest array of passenger information system products

H

anover Displays has quickly become a global leader in passenger information systems.

Operating since 1985, Hanover’s global headquarters are in the UK, with subsidiary offices in Australia, France, Spain, Germany, Italy, the USA and Hong Kong.

Supplying more than 10,000 customers in over 80 countries per year, Hanover Displays also has a second production facility in Chicago, Illinois for the US market.

Hanover Displays Australia director Fiona Watson says the high quality of product has been a key driver for the brand’s global growth.

“Hanover’s commitment to innovation and quality ensures that our products stand out in the global market,” Watson told ABC. “We have the ability to quickly

IMAGES HANOVER DISPLAYS

develop and manufacture products in-house, working closely with our customers.”

Watson says 38 years’ worth of industry experience and financial independence has allowed Hanover Displays to produce a continuous product line for bus

and coach operators.

Its passenger information systems are backed by customer support and innovation, with ongoing service being central to its offering.

Hanover Displays’ current technology range starts with an

Top: Decades of knowledge go into Hanover’s products Above: Coming from the UK, the Hanover name is synonymous with passenger information systems

busnews.com.au November 2023 ABC

25

HANOVER

on, it’s quite amazing,” Watson says.

“The company recognised the need to develop a high-resolution display for the premium public sector, allowing transport

Top: Hanover’s latest signs look so good that workshop staff are stopping to stare at the quality Above: Hanover’s range of LED displays and TFT screens are thriving in Australia 26

extensive array of LED destination displays.

“Hanover’s customer-focused approach allows us to quickly develop and supply new sign sizes to meet specific customer requirements,” Watson says.

“Our signs are robust as well as easy to install, use and maintain.

Hanover’s in-house production and quality assurance is unrivalled in the market, with warranty terms offered being longer than other suppliers as a standard feature for all LED destination signs.”

Alongside this, Watson says the LED destination displays also come with automatic brightness adjustment to reduce power consumption. Programmed using Hanover’s proprietary Windows-based software, the sign system supports messages in a variety of fonts and languages.

Now, Hanover has innovated on this popular product, unveiling high-resolution LED destination displays that offer up to 20 times the resolution of an existing standard LED display.

“The sign looks like it’s painted

ABC November 2023 busnews.com.au

companies to enhance the presentation of their preferred font styles and individual brands on their destination display systems.”

Watson says clever filters on the toughened glass screen maintain excellent legibility in all conditions, with the signs showing images and

transit operations through its touchscreen graphical user interface.

The controller can provide for a variety of interfaces and has built-in audio output for high-quality on-board voice announcements.

The last main part of Hanover’s passenger information systems prowess lies in its new multimedia TFT screens that provide clear onboard passenger information.

Important for both passengers and operators, next stop and this stop information is included on the latest smart TFT screens, which are available in 18.5”, 21.5”, 29” and 37” sizes alongside clever mounting options for side-by-side and back-to-back installations.

Fiona says the TFT screens are typically used to display stop names and to inform passengers of their current location, and can be triggered by GPS, door status signals, stop request buttons and other inputs.

“The image on the screen is so clear, and our customers can display a wealth of information, including news feeds, updates and advertising space,” she says.

As a global and well-estab-

The image on the screen is so clear, and our customers can display a wealth of information, including news feeds, updates and advertising space. animations alongside destination messages.

Just like Hanover’s G4 range, the new high-resolution displays also come in amber or white monochrome, with the option to add a colour route number.

“We recently installed a high-resolution sign at a depot in Sydney,” Hanover Australia managing director Grant Watson told ABC. “Workshop staff as they walked past stopped in their tracks and just stared at the sign, amazed at how great it looked and how clear it was.”

On top of this, Hanover has also released an EG4 destination controller designed to streamline

lished manufacturer of passenger information systems, Hanover Displays is known for its innovative and high-quality products, alongside its excellent customer service and industry-leading warranties.

Fiona says the Australian subsidiary of Hanover Displays oversees operations in all of Australia and the team is happy to help with any enquiries.

“Customers choose Hanover because we deliver on our promises and make the process for them effortless,” she says.

“Our software is also user-friendly, which our customers truly value.”

Photo: © INIT | Ulrike Kabel

FEATURE

Photo: © iStock Photo: © INIT | Ulrike Kabel

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CONSAT TELEMATICS

FEATURE

TRANSPORT GLUE Having already implemented passenger information systems to Australian transport networks, Consat Telematics now has grander plans in store for the transport industry

A

key part of Consat Telematics’ range since its inception in 1989 has been its capabilities in the passenger information systems sphere. The family owned company produces a range of passenger information solutions to keep transport patrons informed.

This global experience first arrived in Australia on November 26, 2017 when Consat brought its passenger information systems to New South Wales’ B-Line.

“The B-Line project is still running today, with real-time bus information systems still working onboard those buses without a hitch,” Consat Telematics Australian managing director Lachlan Mackay told ABC. “Featuring announcements and real-time information, including the list of next stops, timings for stops and passenger announcements, this has been a great success to date.”

The B-Line was a brand new line of 40 double-decker buses servicing between Sydney’s Northern Beaches and the CBD, travelling over the famous Harbour Bridge and past the Opera House.

It was the first line in Sydney to be equipped with a real-time passenger information systems, with a Public Information Display (PID) onboard the bus fleet.

With onboard PIDs and announcements continuing to run, it’s been a fast start for Consat’s passenger information systems in Australia.

“The B-Line has become the gold standard of passenger information systems onboard buses in Australia, we’re really proud of how it works,” Mackay says.

IMAGES CONSAT TELEMATICS

“Operators such as Keolis Downer have commented that the seamless reliable system effectively looks after itself, providing a low cost of ownership for operators.”

The B-Line passenger information systems have been a key part of Consat’s core offerings, running day-in, day-out for passengers to provide accurate information that automatically accounts for any cancellations or delays. The low-maintenance system is fully integrated with public transport authority’s datasets to run independently and autonomously.

Victorian operator Ventura Bus has also welcomed the technology onboard its network, while some Brisbane buses have began using the technology.

About a year ago, Consat took its next big step with its passenger information capabilities when it began putting its systems onboard

the 160X bus service in Sydney.

The 160X service is a high-capacity and high-frequency service running between the suburbs of Chatswood and Warringah.

While working with Transport for NSW (TfNSW), Consat provided a solution to increase passenger information, allowing more patrons to make decisions on how and when they travel.

The out-of-the-box data driven solution, including an automatic import of PTO specific data, was implemented on 160X buses within a matter of weeks and has since automatically worked across every route in the operator’s area of service.

“The 160X system is essentially the same system but it was installed within a much shorter timeframe,” Mackay says.

“We can quickly add new buses and services to get crucial information to passengers very

Above: Consat Telematics has successfully rolled out passenger information solutions on numerous Australian networks

busnews.com.au November 2023 ABC

29

FEATURE

CONSAT TELEMATICS

We provide a solution that connects all modes of public transport and allows, for example, passengers to take both a bus and ferry and know if they will make their connections in real time

Above: Consat solutions connect buses with other modes of transport 30

quickly. Whether it be audio and visual announcements for customers or other handy information for the operator, this has been a very successful project to date that works on any route, at any time and any where.”

The impact of the system’s ability to open up access was immediately put to the test through Consat’s very own Kurt Hennessy. As a visually impaired employee of the telematics company who also catches buses every day, Hennessy was able to work with TfNSW and other stakeholders to further enhance the 160X system.

“It can often be quite tricky to navigate buses, especially when in unfamiliar areas,” Hennessy told ABC. “In these cases, I’ve had to rely on my phone to know my location, but even then I’ve had the odd case of missing a stop.

“This has been a great chance to advise and assist both TfNSW and

ABC November 2023 busnews.com.au

our internal development team on items such as screen layouts and announcement behaviour in a way that provides a detailed but not overwhelming level of information to passengers, especially those with disabilities.”

Hennessy says a number of surveys have been conducted in the year since the 160X service installation to determine how the systems have helped passengers. He says the customer feedback on the service has been overwhelmingly positive.

Consat isn’t sitting back satisfied with its latest work in the passenger information sector. Mackay says that although the solution has helped drive improved access for a range of passengers, the system can also be used to increase the use of public transport.

Hennessy says Consat’s solution is the glue within a multi-modal transport system where its passenger information systems support passengers on any type of transport mode. Whether it be buses, ferries, trains or trams, or even the emerging active transport options of electric scooters and bikes, Consat Telematics has a solution.

“One thing we can do and haven’t used yet in Australia is the ability to show connecting services and integrate

multi-modal trips,” Mackay says.

“Multi-modal has been at the core of our system from day one and, currently in Australia, transport modes run independently.

“We provide a solution that connects all modes of public transport and allows, for example, passenegrs to take both a bus and ferry and know if they will make their connections in real-time, or when alternate connections are avaialble at the next stop.

This is invaluable, particularly for older passengers and passengers travelling late at night.”

The solution works across all transport modes, with buses having real-time information of other linking transport services that can help get people to where they want to go as quickly as possible. This doesn’t just use timetables; it interacts with accurate forecasts of when the next services will be there to offer a nimble solution to the Australian transport challenge.

“The key is that passengers want to know when they get up how the system is running – if a bus is on time or if it’s full or if there’s major issues with the network, so that they can arrange other transport,” Mackay says.

“We’re intent on giving passengers information in real-time so that they can decide how they want to travel.

“Our main focus is looking at how we can add capabilities to our system and integrate them with data to provide a better journey with more options.”

If anyone can do this, Consat can.

Integration is a major strength of what it can do in the passenger information game. With its history both globally and in Australia providing services for the public transport sector, don’t be surprised if the Consat glue solidifies quicker than expected.

“We want to be at the centre of transport and provide all the information that we can for passengers,” Hennessy says.

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SPECIFICATIONS:

� Child Check System � Anti-rollaway � MP3 audio alert � Clear driver instructions � Easier installation � User adjustable delays � Plug and play rear button

� 12 - 24v � 2 built-in relays � 7w amplifier for driver speaker � 3.5mm speaker jack � Volume control � Mode selection (3 programs) � USB port (user definable MP3s)

KIT INCLUDES: Control unit, internal speaker, external sounder, rear button housing, plug and play cable for rear button, Deutsch connector & pins, USB preloaded with audio files.

DISTRIBUTORS: Novo TS Scott Kyle 0457 880 070 scott@novots.com.au

Solid Circuit Kieran McHatton 0493 054 814 Kieran@solidcircuit.com.au

BusTalk Andrew Chapman 0497 556 262 andrew@bustalk.com.au

WEBFLEET

FEATURE

TRANSFORMING TELEMATICS While the 3G network shutdown and switch to 4G may loom as a burden for some operators, Webfleet says the transition will lead the way to improving driver and passenger safety IMAGES WEBFLEET

D

eadlines often seem to quietly loom in the distance, months away, until they’re suddenly upon you.

The impending 3G shutdown in Australia is another example of this.

While many operators may not be ready for when Vodafone switches off its 3G network at the end of this year, or when Telstra closes theirs at the end of June 2024, as one of the world’s leading telematics providers, Webfleet is fully equipped and prepared to help operators transition to 4G. “For operators that don’t act to update their fleet’s driver data systems, come the shutdown, these systems will stop reporting,” Webfleet Australia and New Zealand (ANZ) country manager Jonny Clarke told ABC. “If fleets haven’t implemented a 4G transition process in time, then managing and maintaining driver safety will become much more difficult.”

Webfleet is at the forefront of vendors helping operators to act early and upgrade from 3G to 4G devices. Clarke says this change involves more than just replacing hardware – these systems also need to be installed and switched on to ensure no reporting for contractual obligations is lost.

While on the surface, the 3G shutdown may not have a big impact on passengers who hop onboard buses or coaches, Clarke

says operators will be severely affected when 3G networks are shut off.

“Operators who have to respond and provide information feedback as part of contracts will no longer be able to access the data they need from devices,” Clarke says.

“When it comes to contracts for public transport routes, these operators will be in trouble.”

Although it’s not ideal for operators to have to update hardware to meet this change, Clarke says the 4G transition is a good opportunity for the industry.

While it may be an administrative task to initially tick off, there’ll be

plenty of benefits for operators once they switch to the upgraded network.

The main boost will come in driver safety and fleet management capabilities. Webfleet is preparing for this switch with its array of solutions and systems for buses and coaches that operators can invest in to establish more robust driver safety processes.

“Technology has advanced so much in recent years, think about how much phones have changed in that time,” Clarke says.

“There’s also been huge advancements in driver safety. This transition will help alert operators

Top: Webfleet has systems ready to work on 4G networks Above: Bus operators will need to prepare for the 4G transition

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FEATURE

WEBFLEET

who are unaware to the evolution that is available in driver safety systems.”

Webfleet’s telematics and fleet management solutions can detect a wide array of details when it comes to driver behaviour, but through its OptiDrive 360 solution, Webfleet can quantify this data and provide more information and insight than ever before.

OptiDrive 360 offers dashboards that completely evaluate the behaviour of a driver, using the latest technological evolutions in AI, camera systems and vehicle data to signal in what Clarke refers to as “the next phase of telematics”.

“Being one of the world’s largest telematics companies, we’ve advanced our technology even further to help with driver safety,” Clarke says.

“With our CAM50 dashcam, the 360-degree feedback included can issue alerts when drivers are showing potentially dangerous driver behaviour, such as not wearing a seatbelt, eating, mobile phone use, or worse.

“This footage is then uploaded onto the cloud if it continues. A critical incident doesn’t even have to occur for these

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Above: Webfleet’s solutions use the latest technology

behaviours to be managed out.”

This is a cause Clarke is passionate about.

Living in Queensland, Clarke says that Webfleet technology has been fitted onto more than 80 per cent of the local public transport network.

“It’s a really rewarding feeling to help the operators that we work with to improve their driver safety,” he says.

“It’s hugely important to phase out negative behaviour traits to take bus and coach safety to the next level.

“It’s worth more than just selling hardware and software, it’s about having an impact on the communities that we work in.”

Webfleet’s use of the latest technology, including the quicker 4G network, has now created a space that Clarke refers to as

“proactive driver behaviour management” for operators. Instead of using delayed feedback once the bus returns to the depot to determine how a driver is performing on the roads, fleet managers can find out in real-time how drivers are acting on the roads and what needs to be done to keep passengers safe.

Clarke says a major part of these new additions to Webfleet’s fleet management and telematics technology is the potential that the 3G to 4G transition holds. Once the preceding network is phased out gradually over the next year and the focus turns to 4G systems, Clarke and the Webfleet team are expecting to take telematics to the next level for Australian operators.

“This new development in capabilities revolutionises driver safety, which is wonderful because it has such big implications for so many people, especially for buses and coaches,” Clarke says.

“When you improve driver safety, you improve the safety for passengers too.”

Learn more about Bridgestone’s trusted fleet management solution Webfleet at https://bit.ly/webfleet-range.

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HIGH RESOLUTION DESTINATION DISPLAYS

TFT PASSENGER INFORMATION DISPLAYS

Utilising the latest LED technology, Hanover Displays has developed the capacity to reduce pixel spacing down to 2mm.

The result is up to 30 times the total number of LEDs used in a typical sign system and, by extension, hugely improved clarity.

Our latest range of Thin Film Transistor (TFT) displays provides crystal clear information to the travelling passengers ensuring the smooth running of transport networks for all.

The new technology offers an improved passenger experience with the same reliability and low after sales maintenance as standard LED displays.

Our advanced TFT displays are capable of showing customised graphics, static and scrolling images, as well as full-screen dynamic video content, providing an enhanced passenger experience.

Systems are easy to install and commission using the same cabling and connectors as existing displays. Each sign is perfectly legible in all weather conditions, with new software for easy creation and loading of destination databases.

With the significantly increased number of LEDs, the text displayed appears as continuous screen printing.

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In addition to next stop, timetable and transfer information, the system can also be easily set up to show location-based advertising and real-time web and video feeds ensuring your passengers always have all the latest news.

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INIT

FEATURE

INNOVATIVE INFO

INIT’s LIVErtpi solution is empowering bus operators to track their whole bus fleet while also giving passengers reliable up-to-date departure information

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racking and monitoring bus fleets has become an essential tool for operators around Australia. Whether it be updating fleet managers to any possible delays or ensuring passengers receive up-to-date information on arrivals and departures, these capabilities have become the focus of systems software company INIT. Through its latest LIVE real-time passenger information (LIVErtpi) solution, it has a fleet monitoring tool that is quick to implement, modern and web-based to give operators a thorough overview of en-route buses.

“LIVErtpi provides supervisors with reliable real-time information on their fleet and passengers with all necessary information on departures or disruptions,” INIT business development manager Shane Bedford told ABC. The solution supervises all vehicles and displays them on

IMAGES INIT | iSTOCK a computer screen, allowing operators to always know where their buses are in the network.

Vehicle positions are shown by a colour coding system that makes it easy to detect if vehicles are ahead or behind schedule.

Bedford says that LIVErtpi users are also able to interact with this system to search for buses and stops to receive more information on departure, speed and punctuality.

“If there are deviations from the planned route, an alarm is visually shown on the display,” Bedford says.

“Supervisors can quickly react to these alarms and, in case of obstructions, they can manage deviations with the solution so all vehicles will safely reach their destination.

“If there is a situation that asks for immediate support on location, the supervisors can navigate staff to the vehicle in need of help, all while communicating with the driver to manage the disruption.”

Bedford says a key advantage of INIT’s LIVErtpi is its versatility.

With an agile and scalable CAD/ AVL solution, bus operations control centre staff can track and monitor bus fleets of just about any size.

Subcontractors can also use the system to determine the location and punctuality of vehicles, with the solution able to be scaled up and down to meet operator needs.

The new INIT solution uses a variety of data sources to determine this vehicle information. Its GTFS interface allows companies to store and modify planned timetables, while a GTFS-RT open data interface gives third parties real-time information as open data.

The system can then combine this real-time data with detailed scheduled information to calculate departure times based on planned timetables and real-time locations, as well as historical statistics.

Bedford says LIVErtpi is perfectly designed to fit passenger needs, as it can give them precise departure

Above: INIT’s solution is all about making passenger transport easier for patrons

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FEATURE

INIT

Customers do not have to deal with their own servers but only need web access. They receive LIVErtpi in the form of a subscription, while customers just pay a monthly fee, eliminating the need for large upfront investments. information on mobile devices, the public transport company’s website or via passenger information displays.

This gives them the power of knowing when their bus will arrive while also learning about any transfers or changes that can allow them to adapt travel plans if required.

“Passengers can be informed quickly and easily about incidents,” Bedford says.

“Supervisors can create and broadcast bulletins to the passenger service module and third-party systems to keep passengers updated about temporary changes.

“The supervisor sees on the screen the exact visualised information that is provided to the passengers, so they know the fleet’s status and can be certain that all passengers are well-informed.”

A main part of the new INIT system is the constant communication between the vehicles and the control centre via the solution. The backend of the system constantly exchanges data with the LIVE Driver terminal 38

Above: The INIT system provides a constant exchange of data between parties

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application that the driver uses, sending all necessary vehicle data through.

Bedford says this transmission takes place through public cellular networks, keeping vehicles, drivers and operators connected on a unified and cohesive network.

“For many CAD/AVL systems, the investment in and installation of extensive hardware is indispensable, both in the vehicles and in the control centre,” Bedford says.

“LIVErtpi allows for a different approach with its cloud-based technology.”

The system is also flexible.

Bedford says vehicles can be equipped with an Android smartphone or tablet to make this connection if there is no data transmitting hardware like an on-board computer installed. It only requires the Live Driver terminal app to send the necessary vehicle data through to the backend system.

“If you give the drivers these standard devices, both drivers and operators can be sure of a perfect data flow and are

guaranteed seamless and stable communication with the control centre, which includes real-time notifications and messaging features,” Bedford says.

“Just like an on-board computer, the GPS positioning transmitted is also very accurate.

“Supervisors only need computers with an up-to-date web browser, with the user interface being customisable to different needs.”

Bedford says the LIVErtpi system is efficient to set up and is beneficial for operators of any size.

The pilot project with real-life data is available in just a few days after installation, while implementing a live project takes only a few weeks due to its web-based nature.

Bedford says a major benefit of the system is its ease of use and cost efficiency through its Softwareas-a-Service (Saas) solution.

“SaaS solution means that INIT cares about the backend and maintains the software,” Bedford says.

“Customers do not have to deal with their own servers but only need web access. They receive LIVErtpi in the form of a subscription, while customers just pay a monthly fee, eliminating the need for large upfront investments.”

The solution also includes modules that provide a vehicle registry to manage vehicles and their parameters, a fully tailored in-depth online reporting option and a storage of departure data for two years to help create future timetables.

All of these benefits excite Bedford, who is looking forward to implementing the INIT solution to make bus and coach operations smoother and easier for all parties involved in passenger transport.

“The solution only requires minimal hardware installation and is quickly implemented, making it an easy option for many operators,” he says.

“This future-proof SaaS solution is indispensable for just about every bus operator and provides an important tool for public transport passengers.”

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FEATURE

TRIPLE D SOFTWARE

CHANGING THE GAME

After spending years finding out major challenges that Australian operators face, Triple D Software now has an online solution that is set to bring passenger transport software into the 21st century

S

IMAGES TRIPLE D SOFTWARE

ix years ago, Triple D Software was founded out of a compelling need to assist bus and coach operators in dealing with the growing complexity of their operations. David Cook, the business development manager at Triple D Software, says the company’s early days were spent consulting with local operators to address the challenges they faced when running their bus operations.

“We began as consultants, collaborating closely with operators to resolve the operational challenges they encountered,” Cook told ABC. “We found that the majority of operators we spoke to faced similar challenges when it came to using disconnected and antiquated systems to run complex transport operations and keep all aspects 40

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of the business, informed and connected.”

Cook and the team at Triple D Software have been intent on modernising the landscape for operators. Their ‘Central-Ops’ platform is a testament to this dedication, aiming to replace Excel sheets, paper-based routines and other outdated systems with cutting-edge web and cloud technologies for driver and fleet management.

In the initial phase of its journey, Triple D Software spent years co-locating with operators to gain a deep understanding of their unique business operations. Through this hands-on approach, they learned how each team interacted with other parts of the business, allowing Triple D to create an integrated solution to holistically solve challenges.

“All of these operators encountered a

multitude of issues, particularly related to the complexity of managing change and ensuring that everyone remained well-informed about day-to-day modifications,” Cook says.

“We discovered that many teams became reliant on one or two individuals being up to date with everything that was going on. In one case, a team was so reliant on one person being the source of all knowledge that even when they were on leave, they needed to come into the depot each morning to keep things running.”

The Triple D Software solution is designed to address these inefficiencies at every stage of an operator’s business, from the initial quote through to a charter booking, ensuring the right driver and vehicle are allocated and making sure the driver will remain compliant with National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) fatigue regulations.

The essence of this system lies in managing change and ensuring transparent communication throughout an operator’s network. Wet weather cancellations and last-minute updates to pick-up or drop-off times may require a lot of juggling allocations, but the Triple D Software solution provides a centralised hub to promptly notify everyone within the business.

“This platform addresses every aspect of the daily management of operating buses and coaches,” Cook says.

“It prioritises conflict management, offers a single system for information storage and prevents drivers and vehicles being double-booked, ensuring that both operations and workshop teams are wellinformed.”

While Triple D Software initially provided consultancy services to operators six years ago, it was apparent that the problems they were experiencing were not unique to them.

“This solution came about through operators sharing these common problems, so we saw this as a chance to turn this into a product that other operators could use,” Cook says.

“We’re a small team of highly skilled software engineers, user experience designers and domain experts who saw the opportunity to leverage the latest in web and cloud technologies to develop a modern, user-friendly and intuitive platform to address customer problems and modernise bus and coach operations.”

In an industry known for clinging to traditional organisational tools, this new

technology offers a way to break free from the disorder caused by spreadsheet-based processes. Instead, it harnesses the latest innovations to establish a unified system that caters to bus and coach operators.

A significant advantage of Triple D Software technology is that it’s cloud-hosted, meaning it doesn’t require any software or hardware installation and can be accessed from any location with a laptop and internet connection.

Triple D Software’s established solution has had success with operators like Kangaroo Bus Lines, Port Stephens Coaches, Cooma Coaches and Wide Bay Transit.

With a proven track record, it’s setting its sights on helping other operators modernise their bus and coach operations and tackle the similar struggles they are facing.

Following the implementation of Triple D’s Central-Ops platform, these operators have realised a multitude of benefits. Foremost among these is the platform’s ability to streamline compliance and reporting processes, significantly reducing the workload of key staff manually compiling and interpreting data from multiple sources. Reports that required days of preparation are now effortlessly generated within minutes, allowing these staff members to redirect their efforts to more high-value tasks.

“This solution is all about capturing and reporting compliance requirements and ensuring contractual obligations are being fulfilled,” Cook says.

One of the pivotal components within the solution, particularly concerning compliance, is the incorporation of a fatigue management module, which plays a critical role in preventing drivers from being allocated into a fatigue breach. It accomplishes this by monitoring and cross-referencing the hours drivers have already worked with the hours they are scheduled for in upcoming jobs to guarantee drivers adhere to the NHVR standard rules.

When it comes to contractual requirements, there is a need to provide kilometre accounting to account for every kilometre driven by a vehicle. Instead of maintaining

these detailed records manually, Triple D’s solution automates this process through its Central Ops Fleet tablet application, which is mounted onto the dash of each vehicle.

By capturing driver interactions, combined with integration with telemetry services, a detailed analysis can be generated with the push of a button. When performing passenger services, the analysis can segment trips into ‘dead’ kms against ‘live’ kms.

“This not only provides accountability for contractual requirements but also offers insights into fleet utilisation efficiency,” Cook says.

“Adding tablets to the vehicles not only allowed us to keep drivers up to date with route and schedule changes, but it also provided an opportunity to share important information with drivers to assist them with their daily runs. At the tap of a finger, drivers can access in-depth vehicle specifications, shift bat left and rights or charter relevant documents.”

The Triple D team has also developed a driver’s app available on the Apple and Google app stores, providing a communication tool between drivers and operators.

“The Driver’s App has been incredibly helpful for me in managing my time,” one driver has told Triple D.

“Whether I’m at home or on the road, I can easily access my schedule and receive notifications of any changes on my phone. Submitting requests for leave or unavailability is also a breeze.

“Even as an older individual, I find the application easy to use and it has greatly improved my experience.”

For years, Australian operators have had to rely on outdated organisational technology. Now, with the widespread introduction of Triple D Software’s platform, this might be set to change.

“A key outcome of this solution is improved information management and decision-making, but it can also offer significant cost advantages for operators over time,” Cook says.

“We are confident that this solution effectively addresses the challenges we learned about from operators, making their roles significantly more manageable.”

Top: The system allows fleet operators to track and manage bookings and runs Above: The software works via a tablet in the driver’s space Opposite, Top: Triple D Software’s new solution comes from years of helping bus and coach operators

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FEATURE

NOVO TRANSPORT SYSTEMS

SAFE BUS, SAFE CHILDREN

NOVO Transport Systems’ latest generation of its popular Safe-Check model has been released, with the system ensuring that no children will be left on buses

I

IMAGES MAXIS KILLICK

f TS-160 solutions, park brake alerts and CCTV systems weren’t enough, NOVO Transport Systems, in conjunction with Solid Circuit Enterprises, has produced a new multi-function safety product that is all about keeping the little ones and the public safe.

In the latest line of NOVO’s range, the NOVO Safe-Check 2.0 has just been launched to ensure no children are left on any Australian buses. Solid Circuit director Kieran McHatton, alongside fellow industry quiet achiever Scott Kyle, has unveiled the new product, heralding in a unique way of keeping school bus passengers safer than ever before.

“We wanted to build an intuitive system that interacts with drivers, telling them what they need to do to keep children safe on buses,” McHatton told ABC. 42

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“Our Australian design is the latest evolution on this type of product and uniquely differs from the competitors.”

This newest bespoke solution is designed to easily retrofit into existing vehicles, with the model being produced in conjunction with leading Australian bus and coach operators to tailor it to operator requirements. Complying with stringent NSW and Western Australian safety specifications, the Safe-Check 2.0 includes more than just a simple passenger check process.

The model includes three products in one, with Safe-Check 2.0 able to be used as an anti-rollaway, sleeping child check and an MP3 trigger module.

It’s this MP3 tailorable system that also gives the Safe-Check 2.0 a point of difference in the local safety market.

When a driver turns the ignition on, the speaker immediately springs to life, announcing that Safe-Check is active.

Scott Kyle says the voice file can be user specific, with depots able to download MP3 files and put them onto the unit to create a bespoke personalised message for drivers.

Once the bus completes its run and the ignition is turned off, the speaker reminds the driver to complete a check of the bus and press a deactivation button at the backseat area of the vehicle. The button flashes red so that it’s easily identified, encouraging the driver to conduct a search through the bus before pressing the button and turning it green, where the speaker announces that the check has been completed.

“The technical side of this process is fully programmable by the user,” Kyle told ABC. “They can set what MP3 files play out of the speaker at each point and set times that it takes to activate the system within the NSW and WA requirements.

“A delay-on function is also incorporated for Rosa Coaster type vehicles.

“The system also comes with an optional in-service isolation key that plays a system isolated message in line with the WA specification.”

After releasing the Safe-Check 1.0 five years ago, technology has evolved in the local bus and coach sector. Solid Circuit has incorporated all of these changes into the next phase of the safety system to improve functionality and reduce costs for operators.

“When used as a park-brake alert, the system can monitor the ignition, park brake and driver’s seat belt to provide another layer of safety,” Kyle says.

“When a rollaway risk is identified, the speaker alerts the driver and the inbuilt relays trigger a warning tone for the surrounding public, with interlocks also available to secure the bus.

“In addition, the unit also has three inputs to play user defined alerts in the form of MP3 voice files when a ground signal is received.”

McHatton says the anti-rollaway feature of Safe-Check 2.0 works in two ways – by either seeing if the ignition and handbrakes are off before providing an alert, or by connecting into the seat belt buckle for an added layer of safety.

This new technology is already showcased onboard the auction bus that was sold off at the Bus Industry Confederation’s National Conference at the Adelaide Oval in late October. It’s also already been installed on a range of buses for operator Swan Hill Bus Lines.

McHatton says a major benefit of the latest model in the Safe-Check range is that it can be installed by a technician that doesn’t necessarily have bus experience.

“We developed this model to connect to the battery and ignition, with plug and play to the rear button and drivers’ alert speaker,” he says.

“A big bonus of this is that

Above: The NOVO SafeCheck 2.0 is simple to install Below: A key function of the latest version of the system is that it can play programmable MP3 files Opposite, Top: The NOVO SafeCheck 2.0 is a threein-one system for operators

there’s no cutting into the existing horn circuitry during installation.”

Only five years after the first iteration of Safe-Check, it’s clear that NOVO & Solid Circuit have once again raised the bar with safety products. McHatton says operators can do more than ever before with its latest version.

Whether it be using the system to monitor emergency features onboard the bus or to keep passengers safe in a whole new way, Kyle’s aim is to keep younger

students on school bus routes as safe as can be.

“We’re proud of this model and how easy it is to install,” Kyle says.

“The goal for the Safe-Check 2.0 is to remind drivers to always walk to the back of the bus to ensure no children are left and to remind the driver to apply the park brake.

If they don’t, the external alarm will also alert others to the danger.

“Operators should be thinking about planning retrofits over the Christmas break.”

The goal for the Safe-Check 2.0 is to remind drivers to always walk to the back of the bus to ensure no children are left and to remind the driver to apply the park brake.

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FEATURE

BUSWORLD TRADE FAIR

WORLD FAIR The global bus and coach industry recently descended on Brussels, Belgium to showcase the latest and greatest technology in the sector

I

n tradition for the industry, all eyes turned to Busworld’s annual trade fair, with a wide range of companies showing off their latest technological innovations in the bus and coach game.

From the newest zero-emissions bus and coach technology to the evolving management and solutions companies, there was a wealth on show in Brussels.

While ABC wasn’t there in person, plenty of global businesses with Australian arms were.

A few of these businesses shared an insight into what the global company displayed at the mammoth event.

Top: Busworld this year was held in Brussels, Belgium Above: Digital awards were added to the award program for the first time Left: Busworld conferences ran simultaneously with the fair Opposite Top: There were plenty of brands represented 44

ABC November 2023 busnews.com.au

BYD

As a leading global force in pure electric bus and battery manufacturing, BYD put on a show at Busworld 2023 with its latest BYD Blade Battery technology. In Brussels, BYD introduced a double entry of new electric bus innovations, with two new pure electric buses premiered in the BYD eBus B19 and the eBus B15.

Alongside these new models, the eBus B12 and BYD-UNVI DD13 double-decker coach also made their European debuts at the Expo, with the highlight of this massive unveiling being the latest battery technology onboard the B12. The B12 is the first bus to include BYD’s pioneering Blade Battery Chassis, bringing a new level of safety, energy efficiency and exceptional range.

The BYD Blade Battery technology caught plenty of attention throughout the massive event, with the wafer-thin blades making the battery more compact than ever before. This means the batteries can be stored on the floor of the chassis, revolutionising BYD’s new 12m eBus. With a maximum capacity of 500kWh, the BYD Blade Battery technology delivers a range of 600km, with this exciting technology heralding a new age of electric bus battery production.

“We were delighted to present two of our latest eBus innovations at such a prestigious event for bus and coach operators in Europe,” BYD Europe eBus sales vice president Javier Contijoch says.

“We were especially proud to launch the BYD B12 and the truly revolutionary Blade Battery Chassis, making eMobility safer and more energy efficient than ever before.

“BYD has, for more than a decade, been at the pinnacle of electric bus innovation and we are committed to inspiring zero-emission eMobility on a global scale.

“These new pure electric buses show our relentless dedication to technological advancements in this field.”

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FEATURE

BUSWORLD TRADE FAIR

E-T-A

E-T-A was once again represented at Busworld in 2023. Following four years away from the fair due to COVID-19, the fair and E-T-A’s stand were well attended.

The focus of the fair and E-T-A’s stand was on decarbonisation and digitalisation, with the likes of autonomous driving, condition monitoring and modern passenger information systems all key topics.

E-T-A product manager Dietmar Koops says it was a very interesting fair to be at.

“It was great after the break to see live vehicles and to meet people,” Koops told ABC. “With our high-voltage solutions in the HVR10, HVB10 and HVS10 and our intelligent power distribution solutions, we covered the main focus points of the fair.

“Our automotive circuit breakers and relay portfolio are also benefitting from the ongoing electrification of the commercial vehicle industry and the high importance of low downtimes.”

A new double pole high voltage breaker, the HVB10, was shown off as a new product for megawatt charging of buses and trucks. A virtual world was shown on a smart screen at E-T-A’s stand, allowing people to see its solutions in action onboard a bus.

E-T-A also turned a conversation with a leading manufacturer of buses and trucks into a large order, while gaining new contacts.

“There is a growing market for battery pack manufacturers who assemble complete battery packs from cells and wire harness for various OEMs. We can provide the safety elements,” Koops says.

Hanover Displays

Hanover was excited to be back at Busworld 2023 in Brussels.

The event gave the company the chance to show its latest products and connect with customers and partners. Its international sales team was on hand to provide expert insights and support, with a range of its popular existing products being enjoyed by the latest innovations.

Hanover showed off its new high-resolution destination LED displays, using the latest technology to have the capacity to reduce pixel spacing down to two millimetres and offering up to 20 times the total number of LEDs used in a typical sign system. These versatile signs can also show images and animations, available in amber or white monochrome and with an option to add a colour route number.

Its EG4 destination controller designed for streamlined transit operations was also shown, including advanced user terminals that use a touchscreen graphical user interface.

With built-in audio output and an additional line level audio output for voice announcements, this model was a hit.

Lastly, new multimedia passenger information smart TFT screens provided crystal clear information, while the Hanover Cloud application brought it all together and enabled remote management of the passenger information systems.

“Our presence at Busworld 2023 was met with positive responses, as always, and it was a great chance to engage with the industry,” Hanover says.

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ABC November 2023 busnews.com.au

Irizar

King Long Back in 2007, King Long was the first Chinese bus and coach brand to attend Busworld. Just 16 years on, the popular manufacturer ventured to Brussels for its ninth consecutive Busworld fair.

At the event, King Long released three brand new products specially designed for the European market. The King Long PEV 6, the brand’s new six metre air suspension, low floor pure electric minibus, is designed specifically for the narrow streets of Europe and for last-mile, on-demand transport. With a turning circle of eight metres, the PEV 6 can carry more than 30 passengers.

King Long also launched its new nine metre medium-sized pure electric, low floor city bus.

Fitted with a range of new safety features and King Long technology, the bus also formed part of a launch of the new intelligent Eco-Chip 3.0 system. The Eco-Chip 3.0 monitors real-time safety and traffic scenarios, including the new King Long-developed intelligent warning system.

The third and final release at King Long’s Busworld stand was the unveiling of a new European intercity 12m bus in the C12E. Designed in the UK specifically for western markets including Europe and Australia, the coach is already scheduled to operate on high-density routes such as Paris to Amsterdam.

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FEATURE

BUSWORLD TRADE FAIR

Valeo Valeo’s Busworld experience allowed it to showcase its innovative thermal management technologies for buses of all sizes and drive types. Its display at the largest global bus and coach event included products that reinforce its commitment to greener mobility, as well as thermal comfort without compromise, maximum safety and fleet-efficient zero-emissions solutions.

Valeo brought is E-Cooler solution to Brussels, which allows a range of battery temperature management models with a maximum cooling capacity of 10 kW. Depending on the requirement, the E-Cooler can protect batteries from overheating during charging and discharging, while also keeping batteries cool when driving at higher outside temperature and with heavy loads.

The all-electric rooftop air-conditioner REVO®-E HP R744, Valeo’s latest AC systems, was also presented. Valeo says the system impressed with its further significant reduction in noise emissions and weight alongside a simplified refrigeration circuit. A range of thermal heaters and high-end water pumps were also put on display to highlight Valeo’s commitment to various HVAC solutions.

Ventura Systems For Ventura Systems, Busworld Brussels was the podium for the launch of a new Inward Gliding door system concept, together with a non-touch (capacitive) sensitive edge.

When opening the new Inward Gliding door, the door leaves are fully lifted by the unique kinematics of the system. A simple linkage creates a reliable lifting movement that makes sure that the door leaf clears the slope of the floor. When closing, the door leaf falls back in the lower position to make a perfect seal with the portal from the inside.

This design has no need for a gap to clear the slope of the floor, which could cause more noise and water and dirt ingress. The lifting movement eliminates the need for flaps or typical brushes to bridge the gap between the floor and the door leaf. The result of the improved sealing from the inside is the minimal noise levels during driving and minimal water or dirt ingress due to the absence of flaps of deforming sealing rubber on the underside of the door leaf.

Another Ventura Systems innovation on show at Busworld was the capacitive sensitive edge. In order to protect the more vulnerable passengers and increase comfort for other passengers, a capacitive sensitive edge offers obstruction prevention by using non-touch sensors. In the rubber of the door leaf, a touch pressure-sensitive sensor is combined with a non-touch detection system. This effectively prevents the door leafs from touching the passenger, as the door movement is stopped by the door control unit based on the interference with electrical field.

When backed up by a sensitive edge, this ensures maximum safety.

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ABC November 2023 busnews.com.au

From the newest zero-emissions bus and coach technology to the evolving management and solutions companies, there was a wealth on show in Brussels.

Yutong Yutong’s Busworld experience included plenty of success, with the major brand taking home two Busworld vehicle awards.

Its premium luxury electric coach, the T15E, won awards in the coach design and ecology sections, becoming the only coach to win the award in 2023.

The model was comprehensively evaluated from multiple spheres, including its design, technological innovation and environmental protection. With the Yutong stand also showing off its impressive YEA advanced electric technology, highlighting the power of its innovation in the bus and coach market.

“The two awards are not only honours obtained by Chinese manufacturing brands, but also strengthen Yutong’s leading position in the global field of new energy buses,” Yutong says.

“The power of China’s high-end manufacturing amazes the whole world!”

busnews.com.au November 2023 ABC

49

FEATURE

KINETIC

CARING COMBO

Neither Racine nor Emmanuel thought they would be bus drivers in Melbourne, but now the pair is revelling in hopping behind the wheel for Kinetic WORDS & IMAGES SEAN MORTELL

U

nlike many in the industry, Emmanuel’s first experience of a bus wasn’t until his adult years. Hailing from South Africa, he had no real memories of taking public transport.

It wasn’t until he moved from South Africa to Australia that he became immersed in the bus world. Nearly 15 years later, he’s forged a career as a bus driver, with a family member also following suit.

“When I came out to Australia, I experienced being a passenger on a bus for the first time,” Emmanuel told ABC. “I remember the service being very good, but I never thought I’d become a bus driver myself.”

Now, Emmanuel has spent 14 years driving buses for popular Australian 50

ABC November 2023 busnews.com.au

operator Kinetic. But it wasn’t always this way. In his formative years in South Africa, Emmanuel was a hairdresser by trade, running his own business. It was his passion and career since his teenage years.

When he moved to Australia, he sought to continue his hairdressing business.

It took the loss of an employee for Emmanuel to consider a change in career.

“One of my employees left me to become a bus driver and I found out his earnings were very good,” he says.

“I wondered why I should be responsible for running a business and not being rewarded for it.

“Bus driving requires a different type of an effort than having your own business, I’m able to be more carefree and enjoy myself now.”

His job search landed with Kinetic.

After nearly 40 years of hairdressing, he began a career as a bus driver in 2000, working from the Keysborough depot in Melbourne. His depot operates the route 901 and 902 services, which are two of the longest bus routes in the southern hemisphere.

Emmanuel vividly remembers his first shift as a bus driver.

“It was daunting to start with, driving a big vehicle and trying to remember the route,” he says.

“You take some wrong turns, but you live and learn. Eventually, it becomes second nature.”

Emmanuel says that, although bus driving is a completely different vocation when compared to his hairdressing days,

both roles have some similarities.

He says the customer service lens of both jobs are much the same.

It’s this calm and understanding demeanour that has allowed Emmanuel to flourish as an operator and have no major incidents over his 14-year career to date.

“I treat the passengers well and they treat me well too,” he says.

“I like to take the tension out of situations, which I think has been a key reason as to why I’ve had no issues.

“It’s not just about taking the tension out of other people, it’s about taking the tension out of yourself, including the emotions that you feel in that moment.”

It’s this positive outlook on the bus industry that soon encouraged another member of Emmanuel’s family to get behind the wheel.

His daughter Racine’s first memories of a bus came when Emmanuel first got the job driving buses and the unique celebrations that occurred afterwards.

“When I was in primary school he took us for a fun ride on the freeway,” Racine told ABC. From school through to university, where she studied science all the way through to a Bachelor of Biomedical Science and a Master of Laboratory Medicine, all Racine can remember doing is studying.

Upon landing a job in a veterinary histology lab preparing tissue samples for testing each day, she soon found out it wasn’t what she had hoped. Emmanuel swooped in, encouraging her to consider joining him as a bus driver at Kinetic.

“I encouraged Racine to consider the job because it’s completely different to working in science and comes without as much pressure,” Emmanuel says.

“I see now that she is very relaxed compared to working in a lab, she enjoys the income, but she’s still young, so we don’t know what the future holds for her.”

From Racine’s point of view, the lure of bus driving provided an opportunity for her to rethink her career desires. After Emmanuel

consistently spruiked the bus industry to her, she decided to apply.

Yet when she got through to the interview stage, she was offered a scientist’s position at work and cancelled the interview. It took until a year later for Racine to once again apply a second time and this time leave science for good.

“I could see I wasn’t going up the ladder as fast as I wanted to, and it made sense to then consider being a bus driver,” she says.

“I applied for a second time by myself and didn’t tell my father, I only told him when I got an interview again. The only influence making me come to the industry was him telling me to make the change.”

In July this year Racine landed the job at Kinetic, joining her father at the Keysborough depot. She says the start, including driver training, has been amazing, as she’s been able to step out of a lab and work under the sun.

Racine has been part of the latest wave of women entering into Kinetic’s Women Up Front trainee bus driver program that aims to empower people with diverse work backgrounds to get behind the wheel.

The program has currently seen 53 women join the Melbourne team in the past year. Racine says she’s enjoying the rollercoaster of bus driving, with the highlight being the reactions of passengers seeing her behind the wheel.

She’s also loved being able to help people in a different way than when she was working in a vet lab.

“In the science field, I found I wasn’t helping people or animals directly,” Racine says.

“Becoming a bus driver, you feel like you’re actually helping people in a different way – my mother says that sometimes I act like a therapist for people onboard.

“One passenger got on a bus I was driving and told me his wife died and talked to me about it. By the end of the chat, he said I had made his day better, that was so worthwhile.”

A major part of Racine enjoying her career change has been

The program has currently seen 53 women join the Melbourne team in the past year. Racine says she’s enjoying the rollercoaster of bus driving, with the highlight being the reactions of passengers seeing her behind the wheel. heading to work alongside Emmanuel. Although the rest of the family isn’t involved in the caper, they have also learnt more about the industry through Racine and Emmanuel.

While it’s different to what the pair both thought their careers would look like, neither would trade in the experience of working together and excelling as bus drivers.

“It’s so awesome to be able to work together, it’s definitely made us become closer,” Racine says.

“Being able to chat about our work helps diffuse any anger or despair,” Emmanuel says.

“It’s great to have our family as a sounding board. It relaxes us, allows us to clear the deck and then look forward to a new day behind the wheel.”

Above: Emmanuel (right) was able to convince Racine (left) to join him at Kinetic Opposite, Top: Emmanuel (left) and Racine (right) have excelled as a fatherdaughter bus driving pair

busnews.com.au November 2023 ABC

51

TASBUS

Steering towards sustainability TasBus is looking towards operators like Metro Tasmania for the next phase of Tasmania’s public transport

A

s the Tasmanian bus industry begins to take strides towards modernisation, operator Metro Tasmania is leading the charge by embracing the idea of sustainable transport.

Metro Tasmania is gearing up to launch its zero-emissions bus trial in partnership with Renewables, Climate and Future Industries Tasmania (ReCFIT) as the operator looks towards an electric future.

The operator says this move is a nod to its commitment to keeping Tasmanians moving while also taking a proactive response to the state government’s net zero emissions plan from 2030 onwards.

Set to be launched in Launceston by the end of the year, the project will see four battery-electric buses operating on Metro routes for two years.

The trial will then be followed by three hydrogen fuel-cell electric buses being released in Hobart in 2024 for three years.

“Awareness is a precursor to change, and both Metro and the Tasmanian government recognise the significant of the transport sector’s carbon footprint,” Metro Tasmania told ABC. “Around 21 per cent of the state’s greenhouse gas emissions, excluding those from land use and forestry, are attributed to transport.

“This trial is a structured approach to gather comprehensive operational insights, with findings that will be instrumental in informing Metro’s potential transition of our wider fleet to zero-emissions vehicles.”

The project team’s efforts were recently acknowledged at the Australian Institute

“Funding these trials to better understand the technology’s potential and to reduce emissions is a sensible and obvious step to take.”

52

ABC November 2023 busnews.com.au

of Project Management (AIPM – Tasmanian Chapter) awards night, where they were honoured with both the Sustainable Project and Project of the Year accolades.

Metro says such recognition only amplifies its commitment to champion a sustainable public transport future for Tasmania.

“This strategic initiative allows us to assess both electric and hydrogen technologies for Tasmania’s environment and our customer needs,” Metro Tasmania says.

“Funding these trials to better understand the technology’s potential and to reduce emissions is a sensible and obvious step to take.”

The battery electric buses that will be used in the Launceston trial come courtesy of Custom Denning and its Element 2 battery electric bus models. Custom Denning will partner with Cromarty, who will install and set up the charging infrastructure at Metro’s Launceston bus depot.

For the hydrogen fuel bus trial, Foton Mobility will provide the three buses, with H2H Energy overseeing the establishment of a rapid hydrogen refuelling system at Metro’s Mornington satellite yard. H2H Energy will partner with a number of Tasmanian businesses to deliver the refuelling system.

“We are on the cusp of a transformative phase in Tasmania’s public transport landscape,” TasBus general manager Steve Henty told ABC. “As the first zero-emissions buses prepare to hit Launceston’s roads, we remain committed to playing an active part in Tasmania’s sustainable transport future.”

QBIC

One size fits none QBIC executive director Jason O’Dwyer lists the issues he has with the federal government’s latest industrial relations changes

T

he federal government’s vision for industrial relations, in this term, has taken on a change agenda that is equivalent to the introduction of the Fair Work Act under Kevin Rudd and is arguably the biggest change since Work Choices under John Howard.

The movement sees 17 major changes being introduced, including unpaid parental leave, positive employer obligations for harassment, fixed term contracts, flexible work and enterprise agreements. The latest tranche of worrying change includes casual employment, same job, same pay and setting minimum standards to ensure the road transport industry is safe, sustainable and viable.

In many cases, the government’s agenda is leading to a slow and methodical reduction of workplaces into a one size fits all model.

Prophetically, the passenger and road transport industry once again will be subject to additional scrutiny, as we go back to the future with the FWC becoming a quasi-Road Safety Remuneration Tribunal (RSRT), which

was a tribunal that was tried and failed in the transport industry.

The Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman (ASBFEO) report into the effects of the RSRT payments order on Australian small businesses made 14 recommendations. Commissioner Carnell highlighted that “the development of any major piece of regulation by a government agency that impacts on small businesses, including the establishment of tribunals or similar bodies, should involve significant consultation with all players in the industry, with proactive and targeted efforts made to reach and involve small businesses, take into account the concerns and views of small businesses, and be based on ongoing and accessible feedback mechanisms for small businesses before, during and after implementation of the regulation or establishment of the body”.

It is imperative that senators, particularly new cross benchers, understand this history and recognise that passenger transport was excluded due to the significant difference between road and passenger operations, services, contractual chain and remuneration. The question that must be evaluated is ‘is the Fair Work Commission suitable to undertake this work and ensure the recommendations raised by ASBFEO are implemented to address the past mistakes of the RSRT?’.

The incorporation of passenger transport within the proposal appears to merely amalgamate dissimilar industry sectors, a situation leading to job losses, business impacts and passenger inconveniences.

Similar arguments regarding same job, same pay and casuals as proposed in the legislation must also be examined.

The balancing point between safeguarding employees and allowing industries and small businesses to maintain flexibility and competitive adaptability in various market niches is delicate. Operators, OEMs and supply partners of various scales play a crucial role in the national economy by ensuring that the public has access to an efficient, sustainable and high-quality passenger transport service while being a significant national employer. A one size fits all industrial landscape fits no one. busnews.com.au November 2023 ABC

53

S U B T BES N O I T I T E P M CO !

D E V L O V N I T GE

E T A P I C I T DE TO PAR

O C R Q N A C S

Send in your best bus or coach photos to feature in next month’s magazine.

BEST BUS COMPETITION

FEATURE

WINNER

This beautiful shot of a Nuline Charter coach was a worthy winner of Best Bus November

UNDER THE BRIDGE

November’s Best Bus photo competition winner is a stunner of a Nuline Charter bus heading under a Bacchus Marsh bridge

T

he more the ABC Best Bus photo competition continues to evolve, the wider range of eye-catching photos we receive at ABC. The November winner is another prime example of this, with Brad Woodford’s wonderful shot of his Nuline Charter bus taking out the top prize.

Woodford’s photo wasn’t the only great entry in November, as there were plenty of great photos sent in.

Nick Peters can consider himself unlucky not to win for the month following his superb entries that included a wonderful shot of a Premier Motor Service coach amid a stunning sunny backdrop.

Cassie Fitton from Fun Over 50s submitted a top-notch sunset shot of

one of the operator’s coaches, while Alden Brown’s V/Line coach submission on Mt Buller was a highlight.

These photos may have all been high quality in their own way, but none could surpass Woodford’s action shot.

The vehicle in shot, which is number 94 in the Nuline Charter fleet, is a Marcopolo Audace 1050 on top of a Volvo B9R chassis.

“The Marcopolo/Volvo combo forms a significant part of the current Nuline school bus and charter fleet,” Woodford told ABC. “This has been my allocated bus at Nuline since it was delivered new in early 2019, I use it on my daily St Leonards College school run and on a variety of school and general charter duties around Melbourne and regional Victoria.”

The photo, from October, was taken in Bacchus Marsh shortly after Woodford dropped off a school group at the nearby Lady Northcote Camp.

“In the backdrop is the rail bridge over Bacchus March–Balliang Road which services the V/Line rail line between Melbourne and Ballarat,” he says.

As the winner of the monthly competition, Woodford has received a free 12-month subscription to ABC Magazine, while the winning photo is also being shown off as ABC’s Facebook cover photo for November.

Don’t forget to send through your Best Bus photos for December and the months ahead via email and keep an eye on our Facebook page for more details going forward! busnews.com.au November 2023 ABC

55

FEATURE

56

BEST BUS COMPETITION

ABC November 2023 busnews.com.au

Top, Left to Right: Cassie Fitton’s sunset shot and a vintage bus courtesy of Andrew Blacklock Middle row, Left to Right: Cassie Fitton again with a rainbow photo, Alden Brown’s Mt Buller special and Sarah Hansen captures a collection of Langley’s Bottom, Left to Right: A sparkling Premier courtesy of Nick Peters and Mike Kennedy captures Yutongs out west

busnews.com.au November 2023 ABC

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JM & JG GEORGE INVESTMENTS PTY LTD - SCHOOL BUS & COACH, GUYRA NSW - Based in a desirable location in regional NSW. Family business operating for 70 + years. TfNSW R&R school bus contracts, 6 School Services/ Runs, 7 x school buses. No coach work, simple operation.

STUARTS, N.S.W, SCHOOL BUS - TfNSW school bus contract, multiple services/routes, charters, tours. 9 x school buses & coaches. TfNSW school component of the business sold.

ON COURSE TOURS - Tour travel clientele sits around a staggering 6000 loyal repeat customers. There are also strong working relationships in place with some 120+ Probus Clubs and an additional 100 Seniors Groups. A large client base of approximately 6000. 9 x buses & coaches and plant & equipment of approx. $1mil included in the sale price.

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busnews.com.au November 2023 ABC

59

EVENTS

BUS INDUSTRY CALENDAR OF EVENTS FOR 2023/24 Be sure not to miss out on an opportunity to attend these fantastic in-person events DECEMBER BusNSW December 4 Delegates Forum/ Country & Metro Meetings/ Xmas Function

TBA QBIC Christmas Event

buses large & small $$$ bounty paid on collection

JULY 2024 BusVic July 10 – 11 Australasian Bus & Coach Expo

SEPTEMBER 2024 BIC

(03) 9782 3207

September 17 – 18 National Bus & Coach Show

CONTACT Phil 03 5623 5377 admin@warragulbuslines.com.au

2003 HINO RK250

2002 IVECO

Autobus body, 57 seats, A/C, manual

Express body, 57 seatbelts, A/C, automatic

$35,000 + GST

$50,000 + GST

2005 MERCEDES O500RF 50 seatbelts, A/C, manual, toilet

2007 MERCEDES OH1830 57 seatbelts, A/C, manual

2006 MERCEDES OH1830

$55,000 + GST

$75,000 + GST

$60,000 + GST

57 seats, A/C, manual

ABC-QH-5171496-TS-423

Mega Holdings Scania K400 2012, 64 lap sash seats, semi-Auto, Aircon, Through bins, 3 x TV’s, 945k km. $88,000 60

Hino’s 2 x RG230’s, 1999. Both Allison Auto, 59 seat, LHS bins, towbars, low km. $18,500 each

ABC November 2023 busnews.com.au

Contact Dan Love 0419 042 226

Coaster 2012 manual, Low km 84,500. Aircon, 22 seat. $44,000

danlove@iprimus.com.au Bunbury WA

Coach Seats 57 McConnell 3/2 seats. (No harness’s for 3rd seat but can be purchased new) Good condition. $2,950

2002 Mercedes New 2 pac from windows down, 42 seat, toilet, Aircon, through bins, V8 diesel, 6spd manual. $28,500

DELIVERIES

OCTOBER Volvo and Volgren both excelled in their fields in a rampant month of deliveries in October.

October deliveries hit remarkable high The recent increase in bus and coach deliveries has shot through the roof in October with a massive month

I

t’s been an impressive back half of 2023 to date for bus and coach deliveries, but October has well and truly eclipsed previous months.

Following a steady and impressive 109 deliveries in September, 126 units were registered in October to up the ante in the market.

In the chassis sector, the reliable Volvo was once again leading the way. With 34 deliveries in October, it stayed clear of an impressive emerging force in BYD, who shot up to second with 20 units delivered. Not far behind was Scania with 19, while BCI (16) and Yutong (14) all had very strong months. King Long continued to register well with eight deliveries, I-Bus had four and Mercedes-Benz and BLK Auto couldn’t be split with three apiece, keeping just ahead of MAN (two), Custom Denning (two) and Challenger with the sole delivery.

The ever-expanding bodybuilder market still didn’t offer any surprises, with Volgren once again ahead of the pack. With 36 units, it doubled Irizar in second with 18, sticking clear of BCI in third. With 14 deliveries, Yutong wasn’t far behind and well ahead of the next wave that included King Long and Gemilang (eight apiece). I-Bus and BLK Auto tied with Scania Higer with four each while Custom Denning had five, staying just ahead of Marcopolo (three), while Coach Concepts (two) was just ahead of the final four deliveries split between four brands, including new entrant Global Bus Ventures.

A dominant month meant the seating leader in McConnell continued to excel with 48 deliveries. It surpassed its September efforts, fighting off a resurging Sege with 35 units.

Yutong came next with 14, edging just clear of StyleRide who had 12 deliveries, while King Long (eight) stayed ahead

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ABC November 2023 busnews.com.au

of the likes of APM (four), Marcopolo (three) and the final two deliveries split between two brands.

At the top of the air-conditioning market, Thermo King was once again the leader with 33 deliveries for October.

Behind the leader, the race tightened up, with Hispacold (19) just ahead of Coachair (18) to round out the top three. Not far behind was Cling-Yutong and MCC with 14 units apiece delivered, with the next bracket coming courtesy of King Long (eight), Valeo (seven) and Spheros with five. The final eight deliveries were split in half, with Konvekta and Songz both recording four units each.

The state-based race heated up in October, with Western Australia taking the lead. It peaked late to finish with 36 deliveries, pipping Victoria (32) at the post. NSW rounded out the podium with 31, with Queensland dropping down to fourth with 14 deliveries. The final deliveries went to South Australia (seven), Tasmania with four and the Northern Territory (one) and the ACT (one) both capping off the month’s deliveries.

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

The ever-expanding bodybuilder market still didn’t offer any surprises, with Volgren once again ahead of the pack.

Volgren 36

Seat delivery units

Irizar 18 BCI 16

MCCONNELL 48 SEGE 35

Yutong 14

YUTONG 14

King Long 8

STYLERIDE 12 KING LONG 8 APM 4 MARCOPOLO 3

Gemilang 8 Custom Denning 5 Scania Higer 4

FAINSA 1

BLK 4

BUSTECH 1

I-Bus 4 Marcopolo 3

A dominant month meant the seating leader in McConnell continued to excel with 48 deliveries. It surpassed its September efforts, fighting off a resurging Sege with 35 units.

Yutong came next with 14, edging just clear of StyleRide who had 12 deliveries, while King Long (eight) stayed ahead of the likes of APM (four), Marcopolo (three) and the final two deliveries split between two brands.

5%

1% 3% 1% NT ACT TAS

SA

Coach Concepts 2 Global Bus Ventures 1 BusTech Group 1 Coach Design 1 Challenger 1

29% WA

11% QLD

Percentage by

REGION

24% NSW

SALES BY BODY The ever-expanding bodybuilder market still didn’t offer any surprises, with Volgren once again ahead of the pack. With 36 units, it doubled Irizar in second with 18, sticking clear of BCI in third. With 14 deliveries, Yutong wasn’t far behind and well ahead of the next wave that included King Long and Gemilang (eight apiece). I-Bus and BLK Auto tied with Scania Higer with four each while Custom Denning had five, staying just ahead of Marcopolo (three), while Coach Concepts (two) was just ahead of the final four deliveries split between four brands, including new entrant Global Bus Ventures.

SALES BY AIR-CONDITIONER At the top of the air-conditioning market, Thermo King was once again the leader with 33 deliveries for October. Behind the leader, the race tightened up, with Hispacold (19) just ahead of Coachair (18) to round out the top three. Not far behind was Cling-Yutong and MCC with 14 units apiece delivered, with the next bracket coming courtesy of King Long (eight), Valeo (seven) and Spheros with five. The final eight deliveries were split in half, with Konvekta and Songz both recording four units each.

Thermo King Hispacold Coachair Cling-Yutong MCC

33 19 18 14 14

King Long Valeo Spheros Konvekta Songz

26% VIC

8 7 5 4 4

VOLVO 34 BYD 20 SCANIA 19 BCI 16 YUTONG 14 KING LONG 8 I-BUS 4

Sales by chassis

MERCEDES-BENZ 3

In the chassis sector, the reliable Volvo was once again leading the way. With 34 deliveries in October, it stayed clear of an impressive emerging force in BYD, who shot up to second with 20 units delivered.

Not far behind was Scania with 19, while BCI (16) and Yutong (14) all had very strong months. King Long continued to register well with eight deliveries, I-Bus had four and Mercedes-Benz and BLK Auto couldn’t be split with three apiece, keeping just ahead of MAN (two), Custom Denning (two) and Challenger with the sole delivery.

BLK 3 MAN 2 CUSTOM DENNING 2 CHALLENGER 1

busnews.com.au November 2023 ABC

63

DELIVERIES

OCTOBER

BCI

BLK BYD CHALLENGER CUSTOM DENNING I-BUS

KING LONG

MAN MERCEDES-BENZ SCANIA

VOLVO

YUTONG

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UNITS

MANUFACTURER, OPERATOR & LOCATION Goldrush Tours WA Goldrush Tours WA Mt Lawley SHS WA ATG WA ATG WA Go West Tours WA Go West Tours WA Horizons West WA Austwide Tours SA N/A TAS N/A QLD NSBC NSW Kinetic Melbourne VIC Ventura Buslines VIC Pinnacle Tours Perth N/A ACT N/A NSW N/A VIC N/A QLD N/A NSW N/A NSW N/A QLD N/A QLD N/A TAS N/A QLD N/A VIC N/A TAS Hurstbridge Bus & Co VIC Experience Tasmania Tours TAS N/A QLD N/A NSW N/A QLD DPTI-Dept.ofPublicTransportInfrastructure SA Fortescue Metals Group VIC Fortescue Metals Group VIC Fortescue Metals Group VIC Fortescue Metals Group VIC Fortescue Metals Group WA Kangaroo Island Sealink SA Newmans Bus Service NSW Newmans Bus Service NSW Rockleigh Tours VIC Wangaratta Coachlines VIC Wangaratta Coachlines VIC Warragul Bus Lines VIC Port Stephens Coaches NSW Irizar Asia Pacific NSW Lonestar Coachlines QLD NT Bus & Coachlines NT CDC Hunter Valley Buses NSW CDC Forest Coach Lines NSW CDC Forest Coach Lines NSW Busways Pacific NSW Public Transport Authority WA WA Public Transport Authority WA WA Organs Coaches VIC Kanga Coach Lines SA Kanga Coach Lines SA Grants Coach Lines SA Ventura Bus Lines VIC Simcocks VIC N/A VIC N/A VIC N/A QLD N/A QLD N/A QLD N/A QLD N/A WA N/A WA N/A WA N/A WA N/A NSW N/A NSW N/A NSW N/A NSW

ABC November 2023 busnews.com.au

3 4 1 2 2 1 1 1 1 1 2 8 6 6 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 6 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 1 1 1 7 1 1 1 9 1 2 1 2 1 1 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

CHASSIS (Model)

BODY BUILDER

ENGINES HP*

BCI BCI 325 BCI BCI 325 BCI BCI 210 BCI BCI 210 BCI BCI 300 BCI BCI 325 BCI BCI 325 BCI BCI 325 BCI BCI 470 MAN President 2 BLK 320 BLK President 2 BLK 320 BYD D9RA Gemilang 348kWh BYD D9RA Volgren 348 kW BYD D9RA Volgren 348 kW Challenger Bus & Coach Challenger Bus & Coach 300 Custom Denning Element 2 Custom Denning 400 Custom Denning Element 2 Custom Denning 400 Isuzu NPS 75-155 I-Bus Australasia 155 Isuzu NQR 87-190 I-Bus Australasia 190 Isuzu NPS 75-155 I-Bus Australasia 155 Isuzu NQR 87-190 I-Bus Australasia 190 King Long King Long 360 King Long King Long 285 King Long King Long 360 King Long King Long 360 King Long King Long 360 King Long King Long 360 MAN LE.19.320.RC2 Global Bus Ventures 320 MAN IC.19.360.RR8 BLK Auto 360 Mercedes-Benz O500LE Volgren 300 Mercedes-Benz O500RF 1936 Irizar 360 Mercedes-Benz O500RS Irizar 360 Scania C 248E B4x2EI BusTech Group 335 Scania K 310 IB4x2NB Irizar 310 Scania K 310 IB4x2NB Irizar 310 Scania K 310 IB4x2NB Irizar 310 Scania K 310 IB4x2NB Irizar 310 Scania K 310 IB4x2NB Irizar 310 Scania K 370C B4x2NB Scania Higer 370 Scania K 320 UB4x2LB Custom Denning 320 Scania K 320 UB4x2LB Custom Denning 320 Scania K 370C B4x2NI Coach Design 370 Scania K 360C B4x2NB Scania Higer 360 Scania K 360C B4x2NB Scania Higer 360 Scania K 360C B4x2NB Scania Higer 360 Volvo B8RLE Volgren 320 Volvo B8R Irizar 330 Volvo B8R Volgren 330 Volvo B8R Irizar 350 Volvo B8RLE Volgren 320 Volvo B8RLE Volgren 320 Volvo B8RLE Volgren 320 Volvo B8R Custom Denning 330 Volvo B8RLE Volgren 320 Volvo B8RLEA Volgren 350 Volvo B8R Irizar 330 Volvo B8R Volgren 330 Volvo B8R Marcopolo 330 Volvo B11R Coach Concepts 460 Volvo B8R Marcopolo 330 Volvo B8R Irizar 330 Yutong D7 Yutong 190 Yutong D7 Yutong 190 Yutong D9 Yutong 250 Yutong D9 Yutong 250 Yutong D7 Yutong 190 Yutong 340 Yutong C12 Yutong D7 Yutong 190 Yutong D7 Yutong 190 Yutong D12 Yutong 360 Yutong C12E Yutong 350Kwh Yutong D12 Yutong 360 Yutong D12 Yutong 360 Yutong D7 Yutong 190 Yutong D7 Yutong 190

TOTAL DELIVERIES 126

TRANS­MISS

Rear / Front

Emissions standard

A: Automa M: Manu AS: Auto-S O: Opticru

R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R L:R L:R F F F F R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R F F R R F R F F R N/A R R F F

Euro 5 Euro 5 Euro 5 Euro 5 Euro 5 Euro 5 Euro 5 Euro 5 Euro 6 Euro 6 Euro 5 Zero Zero Zero Euro 6 Electric Electric Euro 5 Euro 5 Euro 5 Euro 5 8.9L Euro 6.7L Euro 8.9L Euro 8.9L Euro 8.9L Euro 8.9L Euro Euro 5 Euro 6 Euro 6 Euro 5 Euro 5 Electric Euro 5 Euro 5 Euro 5 Euro 5 Euro 5 Euro 6 Euro 6 Euro 6 Euro 6 Euro 6 Euro 6 Euro 6 Euro 6 Euro 5 Euro 5 Euro 6 Euro 6 Euro 6 Euro 6 Euro 5 Euro 6 Euro 6 Euro 5 Euro 5 Euro 5 Euro 6 Euro 5 Euro 5 Euro 6 Euro 6 Euro 5 Euro 5 Euro 6 Euro 6 Euro 6 Euro 6 Euro 5 Electric Euro 5 Euro 5 Euro 6 Euro 6

A A A A A A A A A A A N/A A A A N/A N/A AS AS AS AS A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A Opticru Opticru Opticru A A A A AS A A A A A A A A A AS A A A A A A A A A A A N/A A A A A

TRANS MAKE

AXLES

TRANS­MISSION

missions andard

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

Euro 5 Euro 5 Euro 5 Euro 5 Euro 5 Euro 5 Euro 5 Euro 5 Euro 6 Euro 6 Euro 5 Zero Zero Zero Euro 6 lectric lectric Euro 5 Euro 5 Euro 5 Euro 5 9L Euro 7L Euro 9L Euro 9L Euro 9L Euro 9L Euro Euro 5 Euro 6 Euro 6 Euro 5 Euro 5 lectric Euro 5 Euro 5 Euro 5 Euro 5 Euro 5 Euro 6 Euro 6 Euro 6 Euro 6 Euro 6 Euro 6 Euro 6 Euro 6 Euro 5 Euro 5 Euro 6 Euro 6 Euro 6 Euro 6 Euro 5 Euro 6 Euro 6 Euro 5 Euro 5 Euro 5 Euro 6 Euro 5 Euro 5 Euro 6 Euro 6 Euro 5 Euro 5 Euro 6 Euro 6 Euro 6 Euro 6 Euro 5 lectric Euro 5 Euro 5 Euro 6 Euro 6

A Allison 2 A ZF 2 A Allison 2 A ZF 2 A ZF 2 A Allison 2 A ZF 2 A ZF 2 A ZF 2 A ZF 2 A Allison 2 N/A N/A 2 A BYD 2 A BYD 2 A Allison 2 N/A N/A 2 N/A N/A 2 AS Isuzu 2 AS Isuzu 2 AS Isuzu 2 AS Isuzu 2 A ZF 2 A ZF 2 A ZF 2 A ZF 2 A ZF 2 A ZF 2 A ZF 2 A ZF 2 A ZF Ecolife 2 A ZF Ecolife 2 A ZF Ecolife 2 A Scania 2 A ZF 2 A ZF 2 A ZF 2 A ZF 2 A ZF 2 A ZF 2 A ZF 2 A ZF 2 Opticruise Scania 2 Opticruise Scania 2 Opticruise Scania 2 A ZF 2 A ZF 2 A ZF 2 A ZF 2 AS Volvo 2 A ZF 2 A ZF 2 A ZF 2 A ZF 2 A ZF 2 A ZF 2 A ZF 2 A ZF 2 A ZF 2 AS Volvo 3 A ZF 2 A ZF 2 A Allison 2 A Allison 2 A Allison 2 A Allison 2 A Allison 2 A Auto 2 A Allison 2 A Allison 2 A Allison 2 N/A N/A 2 A Allison 2 A Allison 2 A Allison 2 A Allison 2

NUMBER OF SEATS

APPLICATION

BODY LENGTH

AIR-CON (Brand)

Fixed Coach

Recliners

Metro

Long Distance

Charter

City or Route

School

On Demand

12.3 12.3 8.8 8.8 10.5 12.3 12.3 12.3 13.5 12.5 12.5 12.5 12.1 12.5 10.5 12 12 7.5 8.3 7.5 8.3 12 10 12 12 12 12 12.5 12.3 12.5 12.5 12.5 12.5 12.3 12.3 12.3 12.3 12.5 12.5 12.5 12.5 12.5 12.3 12.3 12.5 10 - 12.9 10 - 12.9 10 - 12.9 10 - 12.9 10 - 12.9 10 - 12.9 10 - 12.9 10 - 12.9 10 - 12.9 10 - 12.9 10 - 12.9 10 - 12.9 10 - 12.9 10 - 12.9 10 - 12.9 10 - 12.9 8 8 10 10 8 12.4 8 8 12.4 12.4 12.4 12.4 8 8

MCC MCC MCC Valeo MCC MCC MCC MCC MCC Valeo Valeo Thermo King Thermo King Coachair Thermo King Valeo Valeo Songz Songz Songz Songz King Long King Long King Long King Long King Long King Long Spheros Spheros Thermo King Hispacold Hispacold Hispacold Hispacold Hispacold Hispacold Hispacold Hispacold Konvekta Thermo King Thermo King Thermo King Konvekta Konvekta Konvekta Coachair Hispacold Thermo King Hispacold Coachair Coachair Coachair Thermo King Thermoking Thermoking Hispacold Thermo King Spheros Thermo King Spheros Hispacold Cling-Yutong Cling-Yutong Cling-Yutong Cling-Yutong Cling-Yutong Cling-Yutong Cling-Yutong Cling-Yutong Cling-Yutong Cling-Yutong Cling-Yutong Cling-Yutong Cling-Yutong Cling-Yutong

– – – – – – – 57 – – 57 – – – – – – 20 32 20 32 58 46 – – – 58 47 48 – – 57 41 – – – – – 58 41 41 57 58 58 58 45 57 59 – 43 47 45 55 – – 57 75 57 – 57 57 27 27 – – 27 57 27 27 57 57 57 57 27 27

55 55 35 35 33 55 55 – 49 48 – – – – 40 – – – – – – – – 49 54 54 – – – – 53 – – 53 53 53 53 53 – – – – – – – – – – 53 – – – – – – – – – 50 – – – – 39 39 – – – – – – – – – –

– – – – – – – – – – – 42 37 39 – 40 40 – – – – – – – – – – – – 43 – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – 41 57 – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –

– – – – – – – – X X – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – X – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –

X X – X – X X – – X X – – – X – – X – X – – – X X X X – X – X X – – – – – – – – – – – – – – X – X – – – – – – – – – X X X X X X X X X X – X X – – X –

– – – – – – – – – – – X X X – X X – – – – – – – – – – X – X – – X – – – – – – X X – – – – X – – – X X X – X X – – – – – – – – – – – – – X – – X X – X

– – X – X – – X – – X – – – – – – – X – X X X – – – – – – – – – – X X X X X X – – – X X X – – X – – – – X – – X X X – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –

– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –

(metres)

SEATING Sege Sege Sege Sege Sege Sege Sege Styleride Styleride Sege Sege McConnell McConnell McConnell Fainsa McConnell McConnell APM APM APM APM King Long King Long King Long King Long King Long King Long StyleRide Sege StyleRide Sege Sege BusTech Group Sege Sege Sege Sege Sege McConnell McConnell McConnell StyleRide StyleRide StyleRide Sege McConnell Sege McConnell Sege McConnell McConnell McConnell StyleRide McConnell McConnell Sege StyleRide Marcopolo StyleRide Marcopolo StyleRide Yutong Yutong Yutong Yutong Yutong Yutong Yutong Yutong Yutong Yutong Yutong Yutong Yutong Yutong

WHEEL SEAT CHAIR LIFT BELTS ACCESS

Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N N N Y N N Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N Y N Y Y N Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N Y Y Y N N Y Y N N Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y

N N N N Y N N N N Y N/A Y Y Y N/A Y Y N N N N N N N N N N N Y Y N N N N N N N N Y N N N N N N Y N N N Y Y Y N Y Y N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N

busnews.com.au November 2023 ABC

65

NEWS

THE BACK SEAT

BIRTHDAY BUSES

When Colin Crossley ventured up north to start Whitsunday Transit 25 years ago, he had little idea the impact the operator would have on the local Queensland community

W

hat did you do for your 25th birthday?

Have a party? Go out with friends?

For operator Whitsunday Transit, it brought up a quarter of a century by investing in two new state-of-the-art buses for its fleet.

“These are the most modern buses in Australia – they’re hi-tech, market leaders that all the major capital cities are starting to adopt,” Whitsunday Transit founder Colin Crossley says.

“We’re among the first to bring these buses to the local region.”

It’s a fitting present for Whitsunday Transit, which was started by Crossley in 1998. In the next two decades, Crossley would lead a company that has since grown to be a multi-generational family business that employs 60 staff and connects a community.

Yet the now 47-bus fleet isn’t Crossley’s first foray in the bus game.

After completing his apprenticeship with Leyland Motors (formerly British Motor Corporation), he became Leyland’s state service manager in the truck and bus division. Not long after he was establishing his own runs along the east coast, including Sydney’s Crossley Bus Lines.

Crossley then arrived up in the picturesque Whitsundays in 1997, 66

where he was granted the license for Whitsunday Transit a year later and began working alongside many of the tourism industry’s pioneers.

Crossley admits he had always kept an eye on the Whitsundays, scoping out potential runs when going on annual family holidays from Sydney to Bowen.

When the stars aligned and he sold his southern businesses, he first bought Sampson’s, then Daley’s and finally Butterworth’s services, combining the areas of Cannonvale, Proserpine and Kelsey Creek into Whitsunday Transit.

Crossley was soon assisted by his son Darren, who relocated up north in 2002 and has since flourished, bringing his own son, Jackson, up through the company ranks.

This hard work and resulting success hasn’t always been easy for the

ABC November 2023 busnews.com.au

Top: Whitsunday Transit recently brought up 25 years Below: Three generations of Crossley's behind the wheel

Crossleys – Colin says Whitsunday Transit has always met every flight at Whitsunday Coast Airport since 1998, even when it wasn’t always profitable to do so.

“When Ansett dropped out, it was costing me more than $100,000 a year to support the airport and it was the same with supporting the rail service,” he says.

“But I believe in doing things properly or not at all, and cutting costs isn’t always the way to a successful future.”

This has paid dividends, with the Queensland government formally recognising the investments and making Whitsunday Transit the only operator in the state to hold a commercial contract for passenger services in a population of less than 7,500 people.

The birthday was celebrated with two new buses featuring all of the latest safety technology. With these additions now running routes, Crossley says he hopes there will be at least another 25 years of success for the Whitsunday’s based operator.

“All the other bus runs we’d owned prior to Whitsunday Transit we’d built up and sold but then we got here, and I said, ‘this is it’,” he says.

“You’ve got the water on one side and the mountains on the other – it’s one long run and you can service everyone, but for me it’s also about the sunshine, the sailing and the people involved.

“We’re certainly not fly-by-nights and I’m proud of that as much as anything. I hope when people see these new buses driving on our roads, they can feel that same sense of pride too.”

M Ta

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Being rude.

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Vaping.

Whether it’s on a of bus,itatisaok! bus stop, on a None transport linewith or online, noneMetro. of it is ok!

Get onphone board a safer Metro and the RTBU arewe committed to making ToTasmania learn what measures are taking Tasmania’s public transport safer. To learn what measures to make our Public Transport safer, visit we are taking, visit www.metrotas.com.au/ItsNotOk

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