Australasian Bus & Coach 436 December 2023

ABC

AUSTRALASIAN BUS & COACH

• SCANIA GROWING ELECTRIC FOCUS • VOLVO BRINGING THE B13R • BLK AUTO EXTENSIVE RANGE ISSUE 436 December 2023 $5.95 inc GST

2024 BUS SEARCH

CLASS LEADER BUYERS’ GUIDE

+

CHASSIS + BODY SPECS | AIR-CON, SEATING, PARTS + ACCESSORIES SUPPLIERS GUIDE | PRODUCT REVIEWS

Principal sponsor

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Introducing the

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BARRY HENDERSON QLD / NT / WA MARK COLLINS QLD / NSW 0487 054 563 0431 705 566

UPFRONT

YEAR OF GROWTH R

Despite the challenges it has faced, the Australian bus and coach industry has had a whirlwind year and is prepared for the bountiful opportunities that 2024 presents

oughly 12 months ago, the Australian bus and coach industry was filled with plenty of hope. Following a well-attended Bus & Coach Expo in Sydney that heralded a true return for an industry that had been severely impacted by COVID, a variety of releases were on the horizon.

In 2023, the sector has not disappointed, with a range of releases and exciting news proving that the bus and coach market is here to stay. Whether it be an extension on electric models or introducing potential hydrogen options, there’s also been new technology in the form of different size models, from the larger coaches with the lightest of weights to the nifty mini-buses being used for the growing number of on-demand services in Australia.

At the end of 2023, it has been a whirlwind year for the local industry. The variety of technological innovations displayed in the 2024 Bus Search Buyers’ Guide is proof that the market is evolving at a rapid pace before our very eyes.

Some of this includes bringing back blasts from the past and partnering it with engineering nous, as can be seen by BLK Auto. Throughout its range of diesel and sustainable

models, its newest move in reintroducing the dual tyre lazy model on its President 3 is enough to warm many bus lovers’ hearts. It can be seen from page 36.

This design from yesteryear has been revamped and is set to become part of the bus and coach stable in 2024, highlighting an exciting year ahead. Whether it be the consistent prowess of Scania from page 56 or the range of new vehicles that is set to be unveiled by VDI and Yutong from page 64, the giants in the bus and coach game in Australia are continuing to evolve and find intriguing ways of improving beloved transport vehicles.

Alongside the likes of Volvo (page 24) and MAN (18), these wellrespected names in the industry have proven this year that they are at the peak of their powers.

Yet an impressive part of the year, as we prepare for 2024, has been the emergence of other brands in the local market. Challenger has a unique tale as an operator-turned-supplier, with its custom-designed premium bus and coach models set to grow once again in 2024 from page 46.

BYD, as seen on page 16, used the year to establish its own commercial vehicles division in Australia and it is now poised to become a major player in the local industry.

ARCC, from page 32, has also used hydrogen fuel-cell vehicle trials to its advantage as it looks to produce more and more buses featuring its unique design in 2024.

Alongside a new electric coach on the horizon from Nexport on page 54 and the well-established body and completely built options that BusTech Group has made its own

“Some of this includes bringing back blasts from the past and partnering it with engineering nous, as can be seen by BLK Auto. Throughout its range of diesel and sustainable models, its newest move in re-introducing the dual tyre lazy model on its President 3 is enough to warm many bus lovers’ hearts from page 36.” from page 44, the market is as varied and exciting as it has ever been. To top it all off, Fuso’s Rosa is a premier smaller option for a variety of applications.

For the first time this year, ABC has expanded this guide, including a raft of HVAC, seating and door suppliers and the specifications of their premier products. These additions truly make the Bus Search Buyers’ Guide a comprehensive handbook for the Australian bus and coach industry – something that the sector deserves for its ever-impressive work around the nation. We hope you all enjoy this complete guide to the market and its innovations.

6

ABC 2024 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

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contents FOLLOW US ONLINE AT:

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

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

e-mail: luke.applebee@primecreative.com.au

PRODUCTION Art Director: Bea Barthelson

PRINTING 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

SUBSCRIPTIONS www.busnews.com.au/subscribe ph: +61 (0)3 9690 8766 – Mon-Fri 8am-4.30pm (EST) e-mail: subscriptions@primecreative.com.au

6. EDITORIAL | YEAR OF GROWTH

Despite the challenges it has faced, the Australian bus and coach industry has had a whirlwind year and is prepared for the bountiful opportunities that 2024 presents

10. FEATURE | WEBASTO

Webasto is building on its current expansive battery solution range in 2024 with two new products on the way

14. OVERVIEW | BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE 2024 For the first time, this year’s Bus Search Buyers’ Guide features more than just specifications for buses and coaches

16. CHASSIS | BYD

After a busy 2023 saw BYD finally establish its own Commercial Vehicles business in Australia, 2024 will see the global powerhouse bring more new energy technology to local operators

18. CHASSIS | MAN

MAN’s 2024 is set to be a massive year, courtesy of a new complete electric bus model and a variety of technological innovations

24. CHASSIS | VOLVO

While 2023 was a busy year for Volvo Bus Australia, its 2024 is set to be dominated by an updated new coach model and the hint of another zero-emission product

30. BODIES | IRIZAR

Whether it be new premises, updated models or exciting releases, 2024 is set to see Irizar grow even more in the local market

32. CHASSIS & BODIES | ARCC

Complete with hydrogen bus trials, emerging partnerships and a new electric model, ARCC’s 2023 has laid the foundation towards a greener future in the local and likely international bus industry

36. CHASSIS & BODIES | BLK AUTO

BLK Auto will usher in 2024 with a number of new and innovative transport solutions ready for local operators as it takes the next step in evolving its technology

44. CHASSIS & BODIES | BUSTECH GROUP The BusTech Group is positioned to deliver on customer requirements with its range of diesel, hybrid and electric low floor city buses

46. CHASSIS & BODIES | CHALLENGER

A successful 2023 for Challenger Bus & Coach will see it hit 2024 with a new model on the way and the potential for electric

52. CHASSIS & BODIES | FUSO

Following its latest updates, the Rosa is excelling as a leading option in its class for the Australian bus and coach market

8

ABC 2024 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

54. CHASSIS & BODIES | NEXPORT

Whether it be groundbreaking electric coaches or stylish min-bus options, Nexport’s 2024 range is set to be better than ever before

56. CHASSIS & BODIES | SCANIA

The recent delivery of Scania’s first Australian fully electric route bus is set to kickstart another eventful year for the major bus and coach brand

64. CHASSIS & BODIES | YUTONG

VDI and Yutong took massive strides in the Australian market in 2023, with more in store as this amazing partnership completes further new releases and events in the coming year

70. A/C | SONGZ

mail: 379 Docklands Drive, Docklands VIC 3008 Australia Annual subscription rates (12 issues): Australia: $99* NZ: $A109 Overseas: $A170 (Australian air-mail only) *price includes GST

EXECUTIVE GROUP CEO: John Murphy Head of Customer Experience: Regina Fellner Trader Group Sales Director: Brad Buchanan

With a local network established, Ausmotor is looking to bring more exciting Songz models into Australia in 2024 and beyond

72. A/C | COACHAIR

Two leading models made 2023 a busy year for Coachair, with the HVAC brand focusing on continual growth in 2024

74. A/C | VALEO

Valeo’s growing HVAC products range from the latest electric air-conditioning models to a variety of pumps, compressors and heaters

76. SEATS | STYLERIDE

StyleRide’s leading seat models, from the Premier Protean to the Aquarius, offer a variety of options for Australia’s bus and coach operators

80. SEATS | SEGE

With its seating models continuing to grow, Sege Seats is enjoying success courtesy of its flexible and tailorable approach to supplying bus and coaching seats

82. DOORS | VENTURA SYSTEMS

Electric propulsions have become an integral part of public transport, slowly becoming the new standard for buses and coaches around the world. But what is the leading technology when it comes to door systems?

84. FEATURE | WEBFLEET

Bridgestone’s Webfleet provides an advanced solution to track, manage and improve bus fleets

86. BUS MARKETPLACE | CLASSIFIEDS 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

90. BIC CONFERENCE | EVENTS

Following a successful National Industry Conference in Adelaide, the Bus Industry Confederation has exciting plans underway for 2024

379 Docklands Drive, Docklands VIC 3008 T: 03 9690 8766 www.primecreativemedia.com.au

ISSN 1324-8634 DISTRIBUTION

Distribution within Australia and New Zealand and beyond by paid subscription to the owners and managers of: • route buses • government bus operations • school buses • extended and day tour operations • express coaches • country and charter operations • bus and coach manufacturers • equipment suppliers • tourism attractions • railways management.

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

busnews.com.au

FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEM

The proven cooling effect and long discharge time of the Fogmaker Fire Protection System has a definite advantage regarding battery fires.

Our advanced high-pressure water-wise technology has been tested on lithium-ion battery fires with documented evidence that the long discharge and cooling properties effectively suppress the fire!

This in turn, allows the driver crucial time to protect and remove the passengers from immediate danger.

FOGMAKER is tried and tested with over 15,000 installations in Australia. It is the preferred fire suppression in the Australian Bus Industry.

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United Safety offers Australia-wide coverage with 24/7 support. You’ll have a dedicated account manager and after sales service with a mobile fleet of technicians ready to roll when required.

United Safety is your complete fire company not only in the transport industry but across all aspects of fire protection.

For inquiries, contact United Safety & Survivability Corporation: P: 0407 829 335 E: mick.hall@ussc.com.au ussc.com.au

FEATURE

WEBASTO

FUTURE OF MOBILITY

Webasto is building on its current expansive battery solution range in 2024 with two new products on the way

W

ith a history of more than 90 years spent providing automotive expertise, Webasto is continuing to work on battery solutions that speed the electrification of Australian buses and coaches.

Webasto has continuously provided battery solutions manufactured in an automated state-of-the-art German facility, with its complete plug and play solution at the heart of its offering.

The solution provides the battery, vehicle interface units and thermal management all in one primary source.

“The core of the system is the CV standard battery with a configuration of 400V and 800V,” Webasto says.

“Designed to withstand the harshest environments, the battery has been homologated against recognised standards CE, ECE R100, ECE R10 and tested against the highest industry

safety requirements.”

Webasto says the CV standard battery offers flexible and easy integration into vehicles due to vertical and horizontal installation positions and the ability to communicate via CAN to the vehicle to deliver safe and maintenance-free reliability.

increased energy of 40kWh in the same footprint as the CV standard by upgrading the module to a state-of-theart model.

Following on from this will be the ‘Next Generation’, which will provide a further increase in energy, simplified installation interfaces and improved

“The core of the system is the CV standard battery with a configuration of 400V and 800V.” The Vehicle Interface Gateway allows up to 18 standard battery systems to be interconnected, while the Vehicle Interface Box allows for up to 10 standard battery systems.

Webasto has invested in its products, with two new battery products to be released in the coming years.

In 2024, the Pro40 model will offer

CV Standard Battery e-BTM Thermal Management Vehicle Interface Gateway Vehicle Interface Box HVAC

serviceability in a lighter housing.

Completing the package is the eBTM, which is a stand-alone Battery Thermal Management Unit that ensures optimal functioning of water-cooled battery packs and provides ideal battery cell performance over the long term.

Find out more on Webasto’s website at www.webasto-electrified.com

webasto-electrified.com

Customised e-mobility & HVAC solutions One battery system for many applications Flexible Installation Highest Quality & Safety Standards Reliable, experienced partner Homologated to ECE R100, ECE R10 Webasto Thermo & Comfort Australia | svc-info@webasto.com | +61 2 8536 4800 | www.webasto.com 10

ABC 2024 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

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Founded in 1995, BYD is a global high-tech company with a vision of Technological Innovations for a Better Life.

With more than 28 years of accelerated growth, BYD is a company driven by the future.

BYD has played a significant role in sustainable mobility from automotive, rail transit to renewable energy and electronics.

BYD Commercial Vehicles commenced in 2008. As an essential part of BYD's four major industries, it focuses on the technology R&D, application and promotion of Commercial Electric Vehicles.

BYD Commercial Vehicles has developed a complete industrial chain of New Energy Commercial Vehicle products including planning, R&D, manufacturing, commercial sales and after sales customer service.

BYD has continued to transform the global New Energy Commercial Vehicle Industry with its leading new energy technology, commitment to sustainability, intelligent performance, and innovative design.

BYD New Energy Vehicles has been sold in more than 400 cities, in over 70 countries, and across six continents worldwide.

For further information please contact Jon Tozer on 0407 048 097 or jon.tozer@byd.com www.bydglobal.com/en/CommercialVehicle.html

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OVERVIEW

WELCOME TO BUS SEARCH 2024

For the first time, this year’s Bus Search Buyers’ Guide features more than just specifications for buses and coaches

E

ach year, the Bus Search Buyers’ Guide is known as a popular handbook for the latest bus and coach models.

Whether it be showing off the newest innovations from trusted brands or introducing the exciting entries of emerging companies, this guide is often used as a handy tool for the local bus and coach industry.

The Bus Search Buyers’ Guide acts as a bookmark of each year in a fabled and historically mesmerising industry. At the turn of every 12 months, the latest chassis, bodies and completely built vehicles go on display to see just how much everything has changed.

In an ABC first, the 2024 edition of Bus Search welcomes new sectors into the specifications part of the guide in the HVAC, seating and doors markets.

Starting with the chassis section, which includes the emerging BYD and trusted brands in MAN and Volvo, the guide then flows onto Irizar’s bus bodies. Following this, the various complete chassis and body companies and their vehicles are on full display, ranging from the likes of ARCC and BLK Auto, who grace our cover, to Scania and Yutong.

“At the turn of every 12 months, the latest chassis, bodies and completely built vehicles go on display to see just how much everything has changed.”

This is where it’s different. For the first time in ABC and the Bus Search Buyers’ Guide’s fabled history as a comprehensive handbook for the industry, the world of HVAC and bus and coach air-conditioning systems go on display, courtesy of Songz, Coachair and Valeo.

Once the latest in the airconditioning sector is discovered, feel free to peruse the popular

seating models from Sege Seats and StyleRide, before finishing with an in-depth look into the door units supplied by Ventura Systems.

With Webfleet also discussing its telematics capabilities from page 84, this Bus Search Buyers’ Guide is like none you have seen before.

Enjoy having a read of this newlook edition of the industry’s beloved product guide.

RETROFITTING REFURBISHMENT Remodelling conversion or retrofit transformation solutions Wheelchair accessibility install Seating arrangement solutions Electrical & audio visual upgrades

Restroom facilities Vehicle accessories

T (07) 3344 4544 | E coachworks@royans.com.au www.royans.com.au

14

ABC 2024 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

Branches across Australia & New Zealand When back on the road means back to business. Choose Royans.

busnews.com.au

FUS601

ALL ROADS LEAD TO ROSA

When you embark on finding a new bus for your business you won’t need your maps or even need to pull over to ask for directions, because all roads lead to Rosa.

Fitted with the latest safety features, a Euro 6 emissions standard, creature comforts throughout its 22 or 25 seat interior, plus a class-leading 5 year/200,000km warranty – there’s no reason to take a detour.

SCAN TO LEARN MORE.

The manufacturer reserves the right to make any changes to the product and the images shown are to be considered examples only which do not necessarily reflect the actual state of the original vehicles. See an authorised Fuso dealer for further information. Warranty terms and conditions apply, 5 year/200,000km, whichever comes first. See our warranty policy at https://www.fuso.com.au/Warranty-Policy for further information. Fuso is a registered trademark of Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus Corporation Japan and distributed within Australia by Daimler Truck Australia Pacific Pty Ltd (ABN 86 618 413 282).

FUS6010593_PressAd_ABC December 23"_Rosa Bus_FA.indd 1

29/11/2023 9:31 am

CHASSIS

BYD

BUILDING ITS PRESENCE

After a busy 2023 saw BYD finally establish its own Commercial Vehicles business in Australia, 2024 will see the global powerhouse bring more new energy technology to local operators IMAGES BYD

I

t’s been a whirlwind 2023 for BYD in Australia. As one of the world’s leading electric bus and battery manufacturers, it has been a major player in the global automotive industry since the early 2000s.

In 2023, BYD took the leap in Australia and established its own BYD Commercial Vehicles business with a greater determination in bringing the latest innovations to Australia while servicing the local market.

In Australia, BYD has 200 buses on the road after partnering with major operators in Transit Systems, Ventura and Kinetic, just to name a few.

Its main model currently on Australian roads is its enduring D9RA chassis. BYD Australia commercial vehicles director Jon Tozer says a major benefit of the chassis is that the E-Drive components are all built

by BYD. “The D9RA chassis includes all BYD

integral products – we’re the only manufacturer that manufactures the electric batteries, motors and the control systems for our chassis,” Tozer told ABC. “It means the chassis is a one-stop shop solution as a low-floor city bus model.”

This has allowed BYD to enhance its local aftersales network support in Australia, as it is able to help with any service or technical issues within the BYD chassis. With two locations currently in Melbourne and Sydney, BYD is in the midst of increasing its support capabilities for other jurisdictions.

Yet the next year is about to heat up for BYD after entrenching itself within the Australian market. In 2024, BYD will

WHAT TO LOOK FORWARD TO IN 2024 With the new electric Blade Battery chassis on the way, there’s plenty for BYD Australia to be excited about in 2024.

Alongside the new chassis, Tozer’s focus is on supporting customers after the delivery of BYD’s modern commercial vehicle models.

“In 2024, with the new chassis coming to Australia, it will be a major milestone for us,” Tozer says.

“We are looking forward to greater engagement and presence in the market and having BYD collaborate with government and industry.”

release a new range of electric bus models including the Blade Battery chassis extending to a city, school and midi bus.

“The new city bus chassis will feature a greater seating capacity, longer range and a lighter weight,” Tozer says.

“With a new flat wire motor, it’ll have improved efficiencies for operators.”

The model is expected to be available in quarter three, 2024. Tozer will be on hand to push the second BYD electric bus chassis into Australia, using his more than 35 years of experience in the industry.

The BYD Australia commercial vehicles director will keep paving the way for the major manufacturer to eventually bring the latest generation of BYD Blade Battery Technology to Australia, including the Blade Battery integrating within the chassis structure.

“This is an incredible model and is one tonne lighter than our current chassis and has batteries located under the floor to provide several benefits,” Tozer says.

Although this latest generation of chassis won’t be in Australia until 2026, Tozer is looking to lay the foundations so that BYD’s electric roadmap continues to impress the Australian market.

Above: BYD’s D9RA chassis has been a hit in Australia Right: BYD’s Blade Battery technology is revolutionary 16

ABC 2024 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

busnews.com.au

CHASSIS

BYD

ADDRESS:

WEB:

PHONE:

EMAIL:

4/200 Turner Street, Port Melbourne, Victoria 3207 0407 048 097

www.bydglobal.com/en/ CommercialVehicle.html jon.tozer@byd.com

ELECTRIC

YEAR: 2023

MAKE: BYD

APPLICATION: CITY-ROUTE

MODEL: D9RA DIMENSIONS

AXLES

Length (m)

12-12.5

Type – Front

ZF-RL82A, Forged steel ‘I’ beam

Wheelbase (mm)

6100

Type – Rear

BYD, Wheel-Drive Rear Axle

Front Overhang (mm)

2405

Rear Overhang (mm)

3292

SUSPENSION

Turning Circle Diameter (m)

24.9

MOTOR

Make/Model

BYD-2912TZ-XY-A

Configuration

Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor

Power (kW)

150x2

Torque (Nm)

550x2

BATTERY AND CHARGING Battery

BYD LFP 348kWh

Range

300+

Charging System

CCS2

busnews.com.au

Type – Front

Electronic air suspension (ECAS) with 2 air bellows, 2 telescopic double acting shock absorbers and stabilizer bar

Type – Rear

Power axle. Electronic air suspension with 4 air bellows, 4 telescopic double acting shock absorbers and stabilizer bar

WHEELS & TYRES Type

Alloy

Rim Size

8.25 x 22.5

Tyre Size

295/80R 22.5

ABC 2024 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

17

CHASSIS

MAN-PENSKE

COMPLETING ELECTRIC

MAN’s 2024 is set to be a massive year, courtesy of a new complete electric bus model and a variety of technological innovations IMAGES MAN

W

ell-known for its variety of bus and coach models both globally and in Australia, MAN Truck & Bus has plenty more innovation to come in the near future.

With a suite of Euro 5 models traditionally part of the MAN stable, the brand has recently converted its buses and coaches to Euro 6 versions. This tweak has already seen performances increase across the board, while improved reliability and design capabilities mean MAN’s chassis in Australia have a total cost of ownership advantage for customers.

“When operators look at the MAN models, our coaches and buses are all available with plenty of benefits, including the efficient Euro 6 engine,” Penske Australia head of bus and coach Crinel Geaboc told ABC. “Whether it be the standard low-floor bus, two or three-axle coaches or a new electric chassis, we have options for everyone in the local market.”

The latest technological innovation that MAN will bring to Australia in the coming year is a new complete electric bus. Having been designed in 2019 before being launched in 2023 in Europe, more than 1,000 of these vehicles have now been registered in Europe.

The Lion’s Chassis E LF was first shown to Australian crowds at the 2022 Bus & Coach Expo in Sydney. It is based on the MAN Lion’s City E, which was voted the International Bus of the Year for 2023.

“It’s a fantastic bus in terms of performance, appearance and design,” Geaboc says.

“It’s been at the top of our list to bring this model to Australia. We’ve incorporated the driveline of the European complete bus to bring into Australia a similar product.”

Geaboc recently went to MAN’s global factory, overseeing the production line to see in person the quality of the new MAN electric bus. He’ll now take with him this experience and apply the same standards 18

ABC 2024 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

to local bodybuilder partners who will help produce the complete MAN electric low-floor bus.

With bodies being built by the likes of New Zealand-based bodybuilder Global Bus Ventures, Geaboc says the new model will have a complete electrified look that replicates how the European model appears. Whether it be front and rear design, windscreens or lights, all MAN genuine parts will be fitted onto the body to produce an identical model to the global award winning bus.

Geaboc says this complete electric bus is expected to be released in 2024, with demonstrations lined up with Queensland, New South Wales and Victorian companies. The chassis itself is now available for order, with east coast customers able to get their hands on the low-floor electric chassis and experience its unique driver offerings.

Alongside this complete electric bus on the way, MAN still has its popular range of diesel vehicles ready, including standard low entry and high floor bus options for Australian customers.

A new electronic architecture and communications platform will be available on diesel buses from 2024, and soon become standard on the next generation of electric buses emerging out of MAN’s factory. What will be new on MAN’s diesel buses in 2024 will be a separate new

platform, called Elsa, that will include an improved safety package as standard.

“This will feature lots of improved safety measures and protections as standard,” Geaboc says.

“This offering is well above the standard to ensure our buses and coaches remain reliable and safe to operate for the next few decades.”

Apart from these exciting innovations, MAN will also spend 2024 increasing its dealer network to accommodate for the new models. With the likes of its D15 engine achieving Euro 6e standards, there’ll be plenty of new MAN vehicles on Australian roads.

Geaboc is primed to ensure MAN is prepared for this influx of MAN orders.

“We have an opportunity to increase our dealer network capabilities across Australia to support this technology,” Geaboc says.

“The new technology and platforms will be the biggest feature of our product range, so we’ll be looking to support this move.”

Above, L to R: MAN’s Crinel Geaboc, MAN’s varied Australian bus and coach models on display, MAN’s George Konstantinou Opposite right: The MAN Lion’s Chassis E LF was shown at 2022’s Bus & Coach Expo busnews.com.au

WHAT TO LOOK FORWARD TO IN 2024 Outside of the array of electric buses and platforms slated to arrive in Australia in 2024, MAN will also focus on its Penske dealer network.

“We’re always looking to expand into areas that we need to in order to support our customers,” MAN Truck & Bus general manager at Penske Australia George Konstantinou told ABC. “As the network grows, capacity for parts, service and aftersales also grows. We’ll be looking to upskill our people to support the new electric

busnews.com.au

bus chassis coming through.”

Geaboc says 2024 will be a busy year for MAN as it looks to bring more leading bus and coach technology to Australia throughout the year.

“We’ll be able to present the model and launch it then in Australia as a complete bus,” Geaboc says.

“By then, we should have a few orders in production. I’m really excited about what lies ahead for us.”

ABC 2024 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

19

CHASSIS

MAN-PENSKE

ADDRESS:

72 Formation Street, Wacol, Qld, 4076 Queensland: (07) 3271 7777

WEB:

man.com.au EMAIL:

bussales@man.com.au

ELECTRIC

YEAR: 2024

MAKE: MAN

APPLICATION: CITY – ROUTE

MODEL: eLF 480 /400/320 kW (6/5/4 Batteries) DIMENSIONS AND WEIGHT Length (m)

10.8 to 12.5

Width (m)

2.5 chassis Serial Production Q1/2024

Height (m)

3.3 achievable (BB Builder specific)

Gross Vehicle Weight (kg)

19,500

Max. Passenger Capacity (seated/standing)

Up to 88 passengers (seated + standees), final number TBC based on the complete vehicle weight, BB Layout and Customer specification

BATTERY AND CHARGING Battery

480 / 400 / 320 kW (6/5/4 batteries), Roof, NMC Technology

Range with heat pump*

Up to 270 km/350 km (SORT2) based on the battery setup, the battery usage strategy selected (i.e. (Reliable/Extended Range strategy)*

Charging System

Depot charge (overnight), CCS Type 2, Up to 150 kW (DC, max 500 Amp), <3 h (480 kWh setup 100%, 2.5h 80%, 1.5h 50% charging)

DRIVE AND RUNNING GEAR Traction Motor

Electrical central motor (DC), 160 kW (Max 270 kW, 2,100 Nm)

Gearbox

Single-speed adaptor

Running Gear

Front axle: ridged axle; Rear axle: drop centre axle with stabilizer

WHEELS & TYRES Type

10 stud alloy

Rim Size

8.25 x 22.5 (opt. 7.5 x 22.5 for 275/70R22.5 tyres)

Tyre Size

275/70 R22.5

*Under favorable operating conditions: Low operational demands in terms of average speed, loading, topography, and air-conditioning.

20

ABC 2024 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

busnews.com.au

ADDRESS:

WEB:

72 Formation Street, Wacol, Qld, 4076 Queensland: (07) 3271 7777

man.com.au EMAIL:

bussales@man.com.au

YEAR: 2024

MAKE: MAN

APPLICATION: CITY – ROUTE

MODEL: LE 19.330 RC2 AND LE 19.290 RC2

APPLICATION: CHARTER, SCHOOL, MINING

DIMENSIONS

IC 19.330 RR8

4,000 Buggy form

Wheelbase (mm)

4,000 Buggy form

Provisional

Front Overhang (mm)

Provisional

Rear Overhang (mm)

3,400 (3,250 opt)

Turning Circle Diameter (m)

Dependent on wheelbase. 56 degree front inner wheel cut angles.

LE 19.330 RC2

Wheelbase (mm) Front Overhang (mm) Rear Overhang (mm)

3,400 (3,250 opt)

Turning Circle Diameter (m)

Dependent on wheelbase. 52 degree front inner wheel cut angles.

ENGINE

MAKE: MAN

MODEL: IC 19.330 RR8 AND IC 19.290 RR8

DIMENSIONS Length (m)

YEAR: 2024

10.8 to 12.5

LE 19.290 RC2

10.5 to 12.5

3,400 (3,150 opt)

Length (m)

10.8 to 13.5

ENGINE

IC 19.290 RR8

10.5 to 12.8

3,150 (3,400 opt)

Make/Model

MAN/D1556 LOH17 E6e

MAN/D0836 LOH91 E6e

Make/Model

MAN/D1556LOH17 E6e

MAN/D0836 LOH91 E6e

Configuration

Inline 6-cyl. 9ltr turbo

Inline 6-cyl. 7ltr turbo

Configuration

Inline 6-cyl. 9ltr turbo

Inline 6-cyl. 7ltr turbo

Power (hp / kW)

330 hp / 243 kW

213 hp / 206 kW

Power (hp / kW)

330 hp / 243 kW

213 hp / 206 kW

Torque (Nm)

1,400 Nm

1,150 Nm

Torque (Nm)

1,400 Nm

1,150 Nm

Oil Capacity (L)

40.5

27.5

Oil Capacity (L)

40.5

27.5

FUEL TYPE Type

Diesel E6, Denso common rail Diesel E6, Bosch EDC 7 common rail

Capacity (L)

1 x 300 opt: 2 x 145

TRANSMISSION Auto Model / Type

AXLES

ZF/6AP1420 Ecolife 2 6-speed

ZF/ 6AP1220 Ecolife 2 6-speed

Type – Front

MAN/VOK-07-B-11/ 7,200kg. Cast cranked rigid front axle with stabiliser and steering damper.

Type – Rear

MAN/HY1350-B03/13,000kg. Stabiliser bar.

SUSPENSION Type – Front

Air (ECAS)

Type – Rear

Air (ECAS)

BRAKES

Service Brakes

Air/Disc

Retarding Brake System

Integrated hydraulic retarder

EBS

Yes

ELECTRONIC SYSTEM Alternator

2 x 120A

Starter

24V/5.5kW

Batteries

2 x 12V 225Ah

WHEELS & TYRES

Type

Diesel E6, Denso common rail Diesel E6, Bosch EDC 7 common rail

Capacity (L)

480 (opt: 2 x 200)

1 x 300

ZF/6AP1420 Ecolife 2 6-speed

ZF/ 6AP1220 Ecolife 2 6-speed

TRANSMISSION Auto Model / Type

AXLES

Type – Front

MAN/VOS-08-B-01/ MAN/VOK-08-B/8,000kg.

8,000kg. Rigid front axle (opt: Rigid front axle.

Independent Inter City or Inderpendent Coach).

Type – Rear

MAN/HY1350-B03/13,000kg. Stabiliser bar.

SUSPENSION Type – Front

Air (ECAS)

Type – Rear

Air (ECAS)

BRAKES

Service Brakes

Air/Disc

Retarding Brake System

Integrated hydraulic retarder

EBS

Yes

ELECTRONIC SYSTEM

Type

10 stud steel

Rim Size

8.25 x 22.5

Tyre Size

295/80 R22.5 (opt. 275/70 R22.5)

busnews.com.au

FUEL TYPE

8.25 x 22.5 (opt. 7.5 x 22.5)

Alternator

2 x 120A

Starter

24V/5.5kW

Batteries

2 x 12V 225Ah

WHEELS & TYRES Type

10 stud alloy

Rim Size

8.25 x 22.5

Tyre Size

295/80 R22.5

8.25 x 22.5 (opt. 7.5 x 22.5)

ABC 2024 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

21

CHASSIS

MAN-PENSKE

ADDRESS:

72 Formation Street, Wacol, Qld, 4076 Queensland: (07) 3271 7777

WEB:

man.com.au EMAIL:

bussales@man.com.au

YEAR: 2024

MAKE: MAN

MODEL: CO 19.440/480/520 RR2

YEAR: 2024

MAKE: MAN

MODEL: CO 26.520 RR4 (Opt: 480)

APPLICATION: CHARTER, COACH , LONG DISTANCE, MINING

APPLICATION: COACH, LONG DISTANCE

DIMENSIONS

DIMENSIONS

Length (m)

11.0 to 13.2

Length (m)

12.5 to 14.5

Wheelbase (mm)

4,000 Buggy form

Wheelbase (mm)

4,000 Buggy form

Front Overhang (mm)

Provisional

Front Overhang (mm)

2,005 mm temporary

Rear Overhang (mm)

3,400

Rear Overhang (mm)

1,470 mm + 3,100 mm

Turning Circle Diameter (m)

Dependent on wheelbase. 52 degree front inner wheel cut angles.

Turning Circle Diameter (m)

Dependent on wheelbase. 52 degree front inner wheel cut angles.

ENGINE

ENGINE

Make/Model

MAN/D2676 LOH52 E6e

Make/Model

MAN/D2676 LOH52 E6e

Configuration

Inline 6-cyl. 12.5ltr turbo. Up to 520hp available.

Configuration

Inline 6-cyl. 12.5ltr turbo. Up to 520 hp available.

Power (kW)

316 kW opt: 353/382

Power (kW)

382 kW opt: 353

Torque (Nm)

2,200 opt: 2,450 / 2,650

Torque (Nm)

2,650 opt: 2,450

Oil Capacity (L)

42

Oil Capacity (L)

42

FUEL TYPE Type

Diesel E6, Bosch EDC 17 common rail

Capacity (L)

480 (opt: 2 x 220)

TRANSMISSION Auto Model / Type

AXLES

ZF/MAN Tipmatic 12OD automated with retarder 12-speed.

Opt: ZF 6AP2520 Ecolife 2 (440/480hp only) 6-speed

Type – Front

MAN/VOS-08-B-01/8,000kg. Independent front axle with stabiliser (opt: Rigid axle).

Type – Rear

MAN/HY1350-B03/13,000kg. Stabiliser bar.

SUSPENSION Type – Front

Air (ECAS)

Type – Rear

Air (ECAS)

BRAKES

FUEL TYPE Type

Diesel E5, Bosch EDC 17 common rail

Capacity (L)

480

TRANSMISSION Auto Model / Type

AXLES

ZF/ MAN Tipmatic 12OD automated with retarder 12-speed Opt: ZF 6AP2520 Ecolife 2 (440/480hp only) 6 speed.

Type – Front

MAN/VOS-08-B-01/8,000kg. Independent front axle with stabiliser.

Type – Rear

MAN/HY1350-B01/13,000kg. Stabiliser bar.

SUSPENSION Type – Front

Air (ECAS)

Type – Rear

Air (ECAS)

BRAKES

Service Brakes

Air/Disc

Service Brakes

Air/Disc

Retarding Brake System

Integrated hydraulic retarder

Retarding Brake System

Integrated hydraulic retarder

EBS

EBS

EBS

EBS

ELECTRONIC SYSTEM

ELECTRONIC SYSTEM

Alternator

2 x 120A

Alternator

2 x 120A

Starter

24V/5.5kW

Starter

24V/5.5kW

Batteries

2 x 12V 225Ah

Batteries

2 x 12V 225Ah

WHEELS & TYRES

WHEELS & TYRES

Type

10 stud alloy

Type

10 stud alloy

Rim Size

8.25 x 22.5

Rim Size

8.25 x 22.5

Tyre Size

295/80 R22.5

Tyre Size

295/80 R22.5

22

ABC 2024 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

busnews.com.au

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5/7/2023 5:04:26

CHASSIS

VOLVO

BACKING THE B13R

While 2023 was a busy year for Volvo Bus Australia, its 2024 is set to be dominated by an updated new coach model and the hint of another zero-emission product

W

IMAGES VOLVO

ith a wealth of chassis models running smoothly each day on Australian roads, Volvo is a major force in the local bus and coach industry. It’s set to expand on this presence in 2024 as it prepares for the Australian release of an exciting new coach option.

“The B13R model was launched globally at the start of this year,” Volvo Bus Australia head of product and engineering Mark Fryer told ABC. “We’ve already had a handful of customers purchase them here, with delivery set to begin in early 2024.”

The B13R will soon join a stable of popular Volvo chassis that have become mainstays in fleets around the nation. The likes of its B8R and B8RLE are the backbone of Volvo’s product range, while the B11R coach is a trusted product for operators around Australia Fryer says these ongoing models are “tried, tested and reliable” products that continue to perform around the country, yet there’s plenty to be excited about with Volvo’s latest release.

24

ABC 2024 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

“The B13R has newly designed electrical architecture and an updated safety package, emphasising Volvo’s commitment to our core value of safety,” Fryer says.

For operators, Fryer says there are plenty of benefits in this latest Volvo model. With a renewed focus on safety and total cost of ownership part of this model, Volvo has also completely redesigned its electrical system, resulting in a new digital display dash for drivers.

Volvo has also increased the movement of the steering column to improve the ergonomics for drivers, while changes to the rear axle means there’s a brand new transmission in this coach model. Instead of just offering its standard iShift transmission, the B13R also has an option for overdrive included to bring down the revs on high gears, saving fuel.

“In simulations and testing completed by Volvo worldwide, this transmission, incorporated with other advancements, was found to have fuel busnews.com.au

savings of up to nine per cent,” Fryer says.

“This is reached through a collaboration of changes, including a new 13L engine with the transmission that is encased within a new chassis style that we’ve designed.

“Then, with the new electrical architecture, we’re able to adjust our variants to suit the operator’s need for different routes and typography.”

These changes mean the B13R can complete a variety of operations, running tourism work in New Zealand’s mountainous ranges while also running charter services between Melbourne and Sydney. The new Volvo variants mean that Volvo can cater the coach down to the finest features, gaining different requirements for the one vehicle.

The B13R also has a bigger engine and the largest AdBlue tank Volvo has ever offered at 90L. For an operator, this means less trips to fill up AdBlue and major cost benefits as more power comes with less fuel.

“It’s perfect for the hilly typography of New Zealand and other regions as well as the harshest of Australian conditions,” Fryer says.

Volvo Bus Australia general manager Mitch Peden says: “Alongside our BZL Electric, the B13R launch makes for an exciting moment for Volvo Bus Australia in its history.”

The BZL Electric was launched in 2021, yet Fryer says it’s still groundbreaking in terms of what it can offer for Australian operators.

With 47 units currently operational in Australia, Volvo still continues to be blown away by how the model turned out.

Recently, Volvo has added dual charging capabilities to the vehicle, meaning there’s now a charging port on each side of the bus.

When it comes to storing and charging BZL Electrics at depots, drivers can now charge the bus on either side.

Volvo has also successfully conducted intraoperability testing with all tier one charging suppliers, advancing a model that has been on Australian roads since its initial deliveries to Western Australian operators more than two years ago.

“The past year has given us a great chance to complete real-life testing on the BZL Electric,” Fryer says.

“This background work has made the BZL Electric a flexible model that can facilitate different charging suppliers and telematics providers to give customers plenty of choice.”

On top of this, Volvo has also increased the level of data and cybersecurity that it can offer operators. In line with the global Volvo Group, its cybersecurity standards align with the Sustainability Development Goals (SDG).

“This has been important for us as a group, as it means our customers can benefit from this data safety and have all of its vehicle data securely stored,” Fryer says. busnews.com.au

WHAT TO LOOK FORWARD TO IN 2024

“The B13R has newly designed electrical architecture and an updated safety package, emphasising Volvo’s commitment to our core value of safety.”

“This has been achieved by several advances, including adding multi-factor authentication onto telematics devices. It’s these tiny tweaks that is making Volvo and its array of reliable and new vehicles better every year.”

Opposite top: Volvo has a range of products ready to dazzle the industry in 2024 Opposite bottom: Volvo Bus Australia’s Mitch Peden is leading the charge for the popular bus and coach brand Above: Alongside safety, Volvo is focusing on driver comfort Below: The Volvo BZL Electric has been a hit in Australia

Volvo has signalled a move to increase its range of zeroemissions bus products in 2024.

“Volvo will, in time, update the electrical architecture of the B8R, B11R and BZL models,” Peden says.

“We’ll be doing this to comply with international standards for cybersecurity UN R155 and R156. Although they’re not yet Australian laws, we expect it to be coming into Australia soon, so we’ll be prepared for it.”

Volvo will also continue to develop its training network. In 2023, Volvo completed 163 training days for customers and supply partners. In 2024, the bus and coach powerhouse will be looking to increase this number following a recent appointment to its electromobility and competency team.

“We look forward to continuing to support our customers in their electromobility journey,” Peden says.

“With the release of another ZEB product, and alongside our aftersales support, we’re excited to help more Australian operators become more sustainable in 2024.”

ABC 2024 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

25

CHASSIS

VOLVO

WEB:

www.volvobuses.com.au EMAIL:

info.bus.au@volvo.com ADDRESS:

41 Bivouac Wacol QLD 4076

MAKE: VOLVO

MODEL: B8R EU5

PHONE:

NSW: QLD & NT: VIC & SA: TAS: WA:

Stuart Woodward 0406 465 301 Leonie Conyers 0436 912 354 Anthony Fisicaro 0418 365 356 or Brad Schulz 0498 283 270 Sam Compasso 0437 815 968 Adrian Boevé 0488 902 205

MAKE: VOLVO

MODEL: B8RLE EU5

APPLICATION: CHARTER, SCHOOL

APPLICATION: CITY – ROUTE

DIMENSIONS:

DIMENSIONS:

Length (metres)

12.5

Length (metres)

12.5

Wheelbase (mm)

5000-7400

Wheelbase (mm)

5000-7400

Front Overhang (mm)

2330-2500

Front Overhang (mm)

2500

Rear Overhang (mm)

3173

Rear Overhang (mm)

3173

Turning Circle Diameter (metres)

Pending Body Configuration

Turning Circle Diameter (metres)

Pending Body Configuration

ENGINE:

ENGINE:

Make/Model

Volvo/D8C

Make/Model

Volvo/D8C

Configuration

Vertical 8L

Configuration

Vertical 8L

Power (hp/kW)

330/243

Power (hp/kW)

330/243

Torque (Nm)

1200

Torque (Nm)

1200

Oil Capacity (litres)

33

Oil Capacity (litres)

33

FUEL SOURCE / CAPACITY: Type

Diesel

FUEL SOURCE / CAPACITY: Type

Diesel

Capacity (litres)

300lt

Capacity (litres)

270lt

TRANSMISSION: Manual Model / Type

NA

Auto Model / Type

ZF/ZF Ecolife 6AP1420B. ZF: 6 speed fully automatic transmission with lock up function and integrated retarder.

Voith: 4 speed fully automatic transmission with integrated retarder & electronic control system.

AXLES:

Type – Front

Volvo/NA/Rigid I Beam

Type – Rear

Volvo/RS1228C/Single reduction axle with alternative ratios available. Designed to be lightweight, quiet in operation & provide maximum ground clearance.

SUSPENSION: Type – Front

Electronically controlled air suspension with anti-roll bar

Type – Rear

Electronically controlled air suspension with anti-roll bar

BRAKES:

TRANSMISSION: Manual Model / Type

NA

Auto Model / Type

ZF Ecolife 6AP1420B/Voith DIWA 854.6. ZF: 6 speed fully automatic transmission with lock up function and integrated retarder. Voith: 4 speed fully automatic transmission with integrated retarder & electronic control system.

AXLES:

Type – Front

Volvo/NA/Rigid I Beam

Type – Rear

Volvo/RS1228C/Single reduction axle with alternative ratios available. Designed to be lightweight, quiet in operation & provide maximum ground clearance.

SUSPENSION: Type – Front

Electronically controlled air suspension with anti-roll bar

Type – Rear

Electronically controlled air suspension with anti-roll bar

BRAKES:

Service Brakes

Disc

Service Brakes

Disc

Retarding Brake System

Yes

Retarding Brake System

Yes

EBS

Yes (with Electronic stability control)

EBS

Yes (with Electronic stability control)

ELECTRONIC SYSTEM:

ELECTRONIC SYSTEM:

Alternator

2 x 110A

Alternator

2 x 110A

Starter

Volvo

Starter

Volvo

Batteries

2x225Ah

Batteries

2x225Ah

WHEELS & TYRES: Type

10 stud steel or aluminium wheels

Rim Size

8.25 x 22.5 / 9 x 22.5

CLUTCH:

WHEELS & TYRES: Type

10 stud steel or aluminium wheels

Rim Size

8.25 x 22.5

CLUTCH:

Model/Type

Volvo/Volvo

Model/Type

NA

Diameter (mm)

NS

Diameter (mm)

NS

Control

NA

Control

NA

26

ABC 2024 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

busnews.com.au

WEB:

www.volvobuses.com.au EMAIL:

info.bus.au@volvo.com ADDRESS:

41 Bivouac Wacol QLD 4076

MAKE: VOLVO

MODEL: B8R EU6

PHONE:

NSW: QLD & NT: VIC & SA: TAS: WA:

Stuart Woodward 0406 465 301 Leonie Conyers 0436 912 354 Anthony Fisicaro 0418 365 356 or Brad Schulz 0498 283 270 Sam Compasso 0437 815 968 Adrian Boevé 0488 902 205

MAKE: VOLVO

MODEL: B8RLE EU6

APPLICATION: CHARTER, SCHOOL

APPLICATION: CITY – ROUTE

DIMENSIONS:

DIMENSIONS:

Length (metres)

12.5

Length (metres)

12.5

Wheelbase (mm)

5000-7400

Wheelbase (mm)

5000-7400

Front Overhang (mm)

2330-2500

Front Overhang (mm)

2500

Rear Overhang (mm)

2970 or 3190

Rear Overhang (mm)

3190

Turning Circle Diameter (metres)

Pending Body Configuration

Turning Circle Diameter (metres)

Pending Body Configuration

ENGINE:

ENGINE:

Make/Model

Volvo/D8K

Make/Model

Volvo/D8K

Configuration

Vertical 8L

Configuration

Vertical 8L

Power (hp/kW)

350/258 320/235

Power (hp/kW)

320/235

Torque (Nm)

1200 / 1400

Torque (Nm)

1200 / 1400

Oil Capacity (litres)

30

Oil Capacity (litres)

30

FUEL SOURCE / CAPACITY: Type

Diesel

FUEL SOURCE / CAPACITY:

Capacity (litres)

Type

Diesel

480L

Capacity (litres)

280L

TRANSMISSION: Manual Model / Type

Auto Model / Type

AXLES:

Volvo/I-shift AT2412F/12 speed manual gearbox with an automatic gear changing system that optimises gearshift constantly under all operating conditions.

ZF/ZF Ecolife 6AP1420B. ZF: 6 speed fully automatic transmission with lock up function and integrated retarder.

Voith: 4 speed fully automatic transmission with integrated retarder & electronic control system.

Type – Front

Volvo/NA/Rigid I Beam

Type – Rear

Volvo/RS1228C/Single reduction axle with alternative ratios available. Designed to be lightweight, quiet in operation & provide maximum ground clearance. Steerable tag axle avail.

SUSPENSION:

TRANSMISSION: Manual Model / Type

NA

Auto Model / Type

ZF Ecolife 6AP1420B/Voith DIWA 854.6. ZF: 6 speed fully automatic transmission with lock up function and integrated retarder. Voith: 4 speed fully automatic transmission with integrated retarder & electronic control system.

AXLES:

Type – Front

Volvo/NA/Rigid I Beam

Type – Rear

Volvo/RS1228C/Single reduction axle with alternative ratios available. Designed to be lightweight, quiet in operation & provide maximum ground clearance. Steerable tag axle avail.

SUSPENSION: Type – Front

Electronically controlled air suspension with anti-roll bar

Type – Front

Electronically controlled air suspension with anti-roll bar

Type – Rear

Electronically controlled air suspension with anti-roll bar

Type – Rear

Electronically controlled air suspension with anti-roll bar

BRAKES:

BRAKES:

Service Brakes

Disc

Retarding Brake System

Yes

EBS

Yes (with Electronic stability control)

ELECTRONIC SYSTEM: Alternator

2x 150A

Starter

Volvo

Batteries

Main Batteries 2 x 12V 105Ah AGM. Starter Btteries 2 x 12V 35Ah AGM

WHEELS & TYRES: Type

10 stud steel or aluminium wheels

Rim Size

8.25 x 22.5 / 9 x 22.5

CLUTCH: Model/Type

Diameter (mm) Control busnews.com.au

Service Brakes

Disc

Retarding Brake System

Yes

EBS

Yes (with Electronic stability control)

ELECTRONIC SYSTEM: Alternator

2x 150A

Starter

Volvo

Batteries

Main Batteries 2 x 12V 170Ah. Starter Batteries 2 x 12V 35Ah AGM

WHEELS & TYRES: Type

10 stud steel or aluminium wheels

Rim Size

8.25 x 22.5

CLUTCH:

Volvo/Volvo

Model/Type

NA

NS

Diameter (mm)

NS

Fully Automatic

Control

NA ABC 2024 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

27

CHASSIS

VOLVO

WEB:

www.volvobuses.com.au EMAIL:

info.bus.au@volvo.com ADDRESS:

41 Bivouac Wacol QLD 4076

PHONE:

NSW: QLD & NT: VIC & SA: TAS: WA:

Stuart Woodward 0406 465 301 Leonie Conyers 0436 912 354 Anthony Fisicaro 0418 365 356 or Brad Schulz 0498 283 270 Sam Compasso 0437 815 968 Adrian Boevé 0488 902 205

ELECTRIC

MAKE: VOLVO

MODEL: B5L S-CHARGE (HYBRID) EU6

MAKE: VOLVO

MODEL: BZL ELECTRIC CLASS: LOW FLOOR

APPLICATION: CITY – ROUTE

APPLICATION: CITY - ROUTE

DIMENSIONS:

DIMENSIONS:

Length (metres)

12.5

Length (metres)

9.9 - 12.5

Wheelbase (mm)

5900-6200

Wheelbase (mm)

5000 - 7500

Front Overhang (mm)

2500

Front Overhang (mm)

2500

Rear Overhang (mm)

3490

Rear Overhang (mm)

2315

Turning Circle Diameter (metres)

Pending Body Configuration

Turning Circle Diameter (metres)

Pending Body Configuration

ENGINE:

Make/Model

Volvo/D5K Euro 6 - Volvo/ Fully intergrated Parallel Hybrid: Diesel : D5F/ Electric: Volvo ISAM

Configuration

Vertical 5L (Diesel) & Electric Motor

Power (hp/kW)

240/179

Torque (Nm)

918 (Diesel), 800 (Electric) (Electric kW: 120, HP: 161)

Oil Capacity (litres)

30

ENGINE:

Make/Model

Volvo/EPT

Configuration

2 electric motors

Power (hp/kW)

400kw

Torque (Nm)

31000

FUEL TYPE (DIESEL/CNG/ELECTRIC/DIESEL ELECTRIC HYBRID)

FUEL SOURCE / CAPACITY:

Type

Electric

Type

Diesel-Electric Hybrid

Capacity (litres)

Bodybuilder fitment

Capacity (litres)

220lt

TRANSMISSION:

TRANSMISSION:

Manual Model / Type

Manual Model / Type

NS/NS/NS

Auto Model / Type

Volvo/AT2412F I-Shift/Automatic gearbox, 12 forward gears, 4 reverse, electronic control system. Electric motor with Integrated retarder. 3-buttons dash panel gear selector.

AXLES:

Type – Front

Volvo/NS/Rigid I Beam

Type – Rear

ZF/ZF AV132/ZF single reduction portal axle The casing designed for high ground clearance, low weight and quiet operation.

SUSPENSION:

AXLES:

Type – Front

Volvo/ Volvo RFS-L/Rigid I-Beam

Type – Rear

ZF/ZF AV133/ Single reduction portal axle The casing designed for high ground clearance, low weight and quiet operation

SUSPENSION: Type – Front

Air bellows, front x 2 Air bellows, rear x 4

Type – Front

Electronically controlled air suspension with anti-roll bar

Type – Rear

Type – Rear

Electronically controlled air suspension with anti-roll bar

BRAKES:

BRAKES:

Volvo 2-speed Automated Manual Transmission/2 speed automated manual transmission coupled with the elctrical motors and with inbuilt electric retarder

Service Brakes

Disc

Service Brakes

Disc

Retarding Brake System

Yes

Retarding Brake System

Yes

EBS

Yes

EBS

Yes (with Electronic stability control)

ELECTRONIC SYSTEM:

ELECTRONIC SYSTEM:

Batteries

2 x 105ah AGM

Alternator

Solid State 312A DC/DC Convertor. No moving parts

Starter

Volvo

WHEELS & TYRES:

Batteries

Main Batteries 2 x 12V 170Ah. Starter Batteries 2 x 12V 35Ah AGM

Type Size

275/70 R22.5

Rim Size

7.5 x 22.5″

Wheel Type

Aluminum or Steel

WHEELS & TYRES: Type

10 stud steel or aluminium wheels

Rim Size

8.25 x 22.5

CLUTCH: Model/Type

Volvo/Volvo

Diameter (mm)

NS

Control

Fully Automatic

28

ABC 2024 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

CLUTCH: Model/Type

Volvo/Volvo

Diameter (mm)

NS

Control

NA

busnews.com.au

WEB:

www.volvobuses.com.au EMAIL:

info.bus.au@volvo.com ADDRESS:

41 Bivouac Wacol QLD 4076

MAKE: VOLVO

MODEL: B13R EU6

PHONE:

NSW: QLD & NT: VIC & SA: TAS: WA:

Stuart Woodward 0406 465 301 Leonie Conyers 0436 912 354 Anthony Fisicaro 0418 365 356 or Brad Schulz 0498 283 270 Sam Compasso 0437 815 968 Adrian Boevé 0488 902 205

MAKE: VOLVO

MODEL: B11R EU5

APPLICATION: CHARTER – LONG DISTANCE

APPLICATION: CHARTER – LONG DISTANCE

DIMENSIONS:

DIMENSIONS: 10.4 - 13.7

Length (metres)

10.4 - 13.7

Wheelbase (mm)

4000

Wheelbase (mm)

4000

Front Overhang (mm)

2500

Front Overhang (mm)

2500

Rear Overhang (mm)

2760

Rear Overhang (mm)

2670

Turning Circle Diameter (metres)

Pending Body Configuration

Turning Circle Diameter (metres)

Pending Body Configuration

Length (metres)

ENGINE:

ENGINE:

Make/Model

Volvo/D13K

Make/Model

Volvo/D11C

Configuration

Vertical 13L

Configuration

Vertical 11L

Power (hp/kW)

500/373

Power (hp/kW)

450/338

Torque (Nm)

2500

Torque (Nm)

2190

30

Oil Capacity (litres)

30

Oil Capacity (litres)

FUEL SOURCE / CAPACITY: Type

Diesel

FUEL SOURCE / CAPACITY: Type

Diesel

Capacity (litres)

Bodybuilder fitment, up to 1000L

Capacity (litres)

Bodybuilder fitment

TRANSMISSION: Manual Model / Type

AXLES:

Volvo I-Shift AT2612, ZF 6AP2020B (only 380 hp)

Type – Front

Volvo RFS/IFS

Type – Rear

Volvo RS1228C/RS1328. Designed to be lightweight, quiet in operation & provide maximum ground clearance. Steerable tag axle available.

SUSPENSION: Type – Front

Electronically controlled air suspension with anti-roll bar

Type – Rear

Electronically controlled air suspension with anti-roll bar

BRAKES:

Service Brakes

Disc

Retarding Brake System

Yes

EBS

Yes (with Electronic stability control)

ELECTRONIC SYSTEM: Alternator

3 x 150A

Starter

Volvo

Batteries

2 X 170AH

WHEELS & TYRES: Type

11 stud steel or aluminium wheels

Rim Size

8.25 x 22.6

CLUTCH: Model/Type

Volvo

Diameter (mm)

NS

Control

NA

busnews.com.au

TRANSMISSION: Manual Model / Type

Volvo I-Shift AT2412

AXLES:

Type – Front

Volvo RFS/IFS

Type – Rear

Volvo RS1228C

SUSPENSION: Type – Front

Electronically controlled air suspension with anti-roll bar

Type – Rear

Electronically controlled air suspension with anti-roll bar

BRAKES:

Service Brakes

Disc

Retarding Brake System

Yes

EBS

Yes (with Electronic stability control)

ELECTRONIC SYSTEM: Alternator

2 x 150A

Starter

Volvo

Batteries

2x225Ah

WHEELS & TYRES: Type

10-stud steel or aluminium wheels

Rim Size

8.25” x 22.5”

CLUTCH: Model/Type

Volvo/Volvo

Diameter (mm)

NS

Control

NA

ABC 2024 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

29

BODIES

IRIZAR

WHAT TO LOOK FORWARD TO IN 2024 Alongside this whirlwind year involving new facilities, improved models and a HVAC focus, Irizar also has more product releases on the way in 2024.

Mid-year, Irizar will build the bodies for a new Scania hybrid model which is already gaining interest in a variety of sectors, including the resource market.

“We already have units of this sold, so we’re excited about it being released,” Heanes says.

“We’ll also continue to work closely with Volvo and other partners as they transition into the high-floor part of the electric vehicle sector.”

BUILDING PRESENCE

Whether it be new premises, updated models or exciting releases, 2024 is set to see Irizar grow even more in the local market IMAGES IRIZAR

F

ollowing a successful 2023, Irizar is continuing to expand its capabilities and product range in Australia as a popular bodybuilder.

Despite continual supply chain challenges, Irizar’s order book remains full and it heads into 2024 with plenty in the works.

“2023 was our largest volume delivery year since we’ve been in the country – it was a very good year for us,” Irizar Asia Pacific managing director Steve Heanes told ABC. “The market hasn’t grown – we’ve grown by taking market share, which is a really good testament to the brand.”

In 2024, Irizar has a “very strong” order bank to fulfil. One product that will feature prominently throughout the year is an i6S efficient coach body that will transition towards a new version with some innovative changes included.

This updated model will come with electric mirrors and other slight changes that will optimise the vehicle’s weight.

Heanes says Irizar will be conducting 30

ABC 2024 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

weight trials to produce the most efficient coach body possible for low or zeroemissions operations.

“As batteries can be heavy, our ultimate goal is to have a lighter electric vehicle than what we have previously produced on the diesel side,” Heanes says.

In Europe, the new i6S efficient bodies have recorded up to 13 per cent fuel savings. Now, Heanes will work to make the body ideal and acceptable for Australian conditions.

In the early months of 2024, Irizar will also move into its new larger facility in Melbourne to capitalise on its recent growth. Heanes says the past couple of years of increased production and good business means it’s now time to stabilise the Irizar business model.

“The business needs to be sustainable moving forward, so we’ll focus on that to make our growth stable,” he says.

“We’ll also use the facility to focus on the customer service and aftersales part of the business by building in flexibility for repairs.”

This focus includes completing glass replacement in-house, increasing Irizar’s service offering across the board. When Irizar does make the move, it’ll establish a community with sub-suppliers in the same area to facilitate new efficiencies and opportunities for all involved.

A major part of 2023 for Irizar was the establishment of Hispacold’s business unit in Australia. After stabilising this support and structure in 2023, Irizar will use the next year to re-evaluate Hispacold networks and create new opportunities.

“We want to create opportunities to put Hispacold HVAC systems on other bodies, such as the new generation Breeze unit,” Heanes says.

“The end goal is to service customers better than how we serviced them in the past so that the Hispacold brand is appreciated in Australia.”

Above: 2023 was one of Irizar’s most successful years to date in Australia Below: The updated i6s efficient coach body is set to be a major highlight of Irizar’s 2024

busnews.com.au

BODIES

IRIZAR

ADDRESS:

WEB:

2 Austral Place, Hallam, VIC 3803 PHONE: 03 9708 6688

MAKE: IRIZAR

MODEL: i6S

SERIES: COACH

MAKE: IRIZAR

www.irizar.com.au EMAIL:

enquires@irizar.com.au

MODEL: i6

SERIES: SCHOOL/CHARTER

APPLICATION: LONG DISTANCE/TOURING

APPLICATION: CHARTER, SCHOOL, MINING

BODY SPECIFICATIONS:

BODY SPECIFICATIONS:

Frame Material

HIGH TENSILE ST 52, 44 & 37, AXALTA after-welding treatment (stainless steel option)

Body Material

Two piece, hot stretched aluminium roof & side panels.

Fibreglass front & rear. Complete thermal & acoustic insulation.

Seating Capacity

48-71

Passenger Capacity No. of Doors

SEATING OPTIONS:

Frame Material

HIGH TENSILE ST 52, 44 & 37, AXALTA after-welding treatment (stainless steel option)

Body Material

Two piece, hot stretched aluminium roof & side panels.

Fibreglass front & rear. Complete thermal & acoustic insulation.

Seating Capacity

48-71

Passenger Capacity

48-71

48-71

No. of Doors

1-2

1 or 2

SEATING OPTIONS:

Seating Type

Recliners

Seating Make/s

Mcconells, Styleride and SEGE

Seating Model/s

Various

Seatbelts (Yes / No)

Yes

BODY DIMENSIONS: Body Length (m)

12.5-14.5

Body Width (m)

2.5

Body Height (m)

3.9

Body Floor Height (mm)

1700

STORAGE: Side bins

Yes

Thru bins

Yes

Internal luggage bins

Yes

AIR-CONDITIONING: Air-Conditioning Standard

Yes

Air-Conditioning Make/s

Hispacold

Air-Conditioning Model/s

i6S Climate

BODY OPTIONS: Wheelchair lift access

Optional

CD/PA/Radio

Yes

DVD/TV

Yes

Toilet

Optional

Individual reading lights

Yes

Individual AC vents

Yes

Reverse camera

Yes

Other (please specify)

NA

busnews.com.au

Seating Type

FIxed or recliners

Seating Make/s

Mcconells, Styleride and SEGE

Seating Model/s

Various

Seatbelts (Yes / No)

Yes

BODY DIMENSIONS: Body Length (m)

10.8-14.5

Body Width (m)

2.5

Body Height (m)

3.5, 3.7 or 3.9

Body Floor Height (mm)

1500-1700

STORAGE: Side bins

Yes

Thru bins

Yes

Internal luggage bins

Yes

AIR-CONDITIONING: Air-Conditioning Standard

Yes

Air-Conditioning Make/s

Hispacold

Air-Conditioning Model/s

i6 Climate

BODY OPTIONS: Wheelchair lift access

Optional

CD/PA/Radio

Yes

DVD/TV

Yes

Toilet

Optional

Individual reading lights

Optional

Individual AC vents

Yes

Reverse camera

Yes

Other (please specify)

N/A

ABC 2024 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

31

CHASSIS & BODIES

ARCC

BUILDING MOMENTUM Complete with hydrogen bus trials, emerging partnerships and a new electric model, ARCC’s 2023 has laid the foundation towards a greener future in the local and likely international bus industry IMAGES ARCC

I

t’s been a landmark year for Aluminium Revolutionary Chassis Company (ARCC) in its evolving history as an Australian zero-emissions bus brand. Having trialled its flagship hydrogen fuel-cell design on Australian roads in multiple states, it has also released its accompanying aluminium battery electric bus model to complete the set.

Following the successful hydrogen fuel-cell bus trial with NSW operator Red Bus Services, ARCC has continued the momentum, with another hydrogen trial launched later in the year with Transit Systems Australia in Melbourne’s west.

“The fact that these buses are now on the road is certainly something the team is proud of,” ARCC founder and managing director Peter Murley told ABC. “There are only a handful of commercial hydrogen vehicles on the road in Australia and being designed 32

ABC 2024 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

and manufactured 100 per cent locally is testament to the talent and determination of the team over the past eight years.

“With another trial also set to launch in NSW with Premier Coachlines in Wollongong, there are numerous ARCC models now working on Australian roads.”

These moments might seem like hallmarks for the growing Australian brand, but ARCC has been up to plenty in 2023. ARCC has integrated OEM running gear into its novel chassis architecture, creating the ARCC Viking model through the adoption of Scania technology while allowing the integration of Scania axles in ARCC’s own design.

“It’s been invaluable as operators already have great awareness of the Scania system, so we’re not reinventing the wheel,” Murley says.

“This has enabled vehicles to be serviced easier when these parts do

wear out, as service agents are aware of that technology and have spare parts available.”

A major win from this move has been ARCC’s ability to maintain the low weight of its models despite the change in running gear. Murley and ARCC’s motto has always been to do more with less, meaning its weight has been a huge point of difference in the local zero-emissions bus market.

With the hydrogen model coming in both a 16 tonne and 18 tonne version depending on the running gear used, Murley is proud to be changing the game when it comes to lightweight balanced vehicles.

“The weight of this vehicle is significantly less than anything else on the market currently, giving it a greater carrying capacity and hence greater returns for the operator,” Murley says.

“Our system is up to 2.5 tonnes lighter than other models and is completely Australian technology from busnews.com.au

the ground to the roof. We can now give operators a choice in an ultra-light 16 tonne model that can carry up to 75 passengers, or a 18 tonne GVM model that includes Scania running gear.”

A primary point for Murley and his ARCC team has been on building a zero-emissions bus design that is able to be converted between battery electric and hydrogen fuel-cell power sources. In 2023, it finally realised this dream when it introduced its battery electric model to the local market.

Murley says the plug-and-play nature of ARCC’s two models means ARCC can look at scaling up in the coming years, as it can provide an assembly kit for companies to use to assemble and spread the unique design.

“We’re working on a solution that allows for greater chances for hydrogen fuel-cell buses or battery electric vehicles to be rolled out at scale in Australia,” Murley says.

The battery electric model was created with Webasto as the battery suppliers. The model has 280kWh worth of batteries installed, providing between 0.75 and 0.85kWh per kilometre.

The flexible approach to zeroemissions bus production has resulted in an electric vehicle that can easily be changed to a hydrogen fuel-cell model if needed. Both the battery model and the hydrogen model sit on

Opposite top: ARCC’s hydrogen fuel-cell bus heading on trial in Melbourne was a major highlight for ARCC in 2023 Above: Whether it be hydrogen fuel-cell or battery electric technology, ARCC can do both busnews.com.au

the roof of the vehicle, making them interchangeable.

“From the roof down, the buses are essentially the same,” Murley says.

Murley says the initial concern regarding zero-emissions buses was with range. ARCC has moved to solve this issue through its hydrogen bus trial with Red Bus Services, which proved the bus is capable of running for more than 550km on a single refill.

However, Murley says few daily routes require this capability.

“Given the demonstrated range of battery electric models, perhaps

a tailoring of range to route requirements will become more prevalent in lowering capital costs for the buses and their infrastructure,” he says.

“Our ability to customise a design to a route is a major focus for us – we do this by adding or subtracting batteries to our model, creating a bespoke Australian vehicle that tailors solutions to customer needs.

“We have developed software that uses route data to calculate energy requirements. We’re now comparing the calculations of that software against actual bus telemetrics to further refine the software.

“The ability to offer operators an accurate way of determining their route requirements will assist in planning and procurement, as vehicles can be designed and built based on operators’ bespoke requirements.”

Behind all of this is a motivation to continue promoting local industry development and the localisation of zero-emissions bus production.

Whether it be partnering with battery, cooling, charging infrastructure or hydrogen tank suppliers, Murley will maintain an Australian focus to keep costs down and provide unique solutions for local operators.

“Our system is up to 2.5 tonnes lighter than other models and is completely Australian technology from the ground to the roof. We can now give operators a choice in an ultralight 16 tonne model that can carry up to 75 passengers, or a 18 tonne GVM model that includes Scania running gear.”

WHAT TO LOOK FORWARD TO IN 2024 After a whirlwind 2023, ARCC’s 2024 will focus on consolidating the technology it has and promoting it to the Australian market.

With his eyes always on doing more with less, Murley will also find new ways to make vehicle builds as efficient as possible so that they are commercially scalable for ARCC’s wide range of partners within the industry.

“We see 2024 as a year of consolidation with what we’ve created and introduced to Australian roads,” Murley says.

Murley has no massive goals for 2024 where hundreds of ARCC vehicles are built and sold to operators. Instead, he’s

building towards 2025, when state governments have mandates in place to phase out diesel bus purchases and instead focus on zero-emissions models.

With a new purpose-built facility also on the horizon in the coming year, Murley will continue working hard to create a rosy future for the emerging ARCC. “We’ve been slowly improving our research and design process and we now look towards building,” Murley says.

“We’ll aim to build around 20 to 30 vehicles in 2024 as we work with the industry towards a larger 2025 for the zero-emissions bus sector.”

ABC 2024 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

33

CHASSIS & BODIES

ARCC

WEB:

www.arccaus.com.au EMAIL:

info@arccaus.com.au ADDRESS:

PHONE:

Australia Wide: Peter Murley Samuel Yeo

0403 240 016 0491 614 629

13 Hume Road, Smithfield 2164 NSW

HYDROGEN

ELECTRIC

YEAR: 2022 MAKE: ARCC MODEL: HYDROLIGHT

YEAR: 2022 MAKE: ARCC MODEL: LIGHTENING

CATEGORY: 16 TONNE LOW ENTRY BUS - CITY ROUTE

CATEGORY: 16 TONNE LOW ENTRY BUS - CITY ROUTE

DIMENSIONS:

DIMENSIONS:

Length (m)

12.14

Length (m)

12.14

Wheelbase (mm)

6415

Wheelbase (mm)

6415

Front Overhang (mm)

2825

Front Overhang (mm)

2825

Rear Overhang (mm)

2900

Rear Overhang (mm)

2900

Turning Circle Diameter (m)

25m kerb to kerb

Turning Circle Diameter (m)

ENGINE:

25m kerb to kerb

ENGINE:

Make/Model

TM4 / Sumo HD

Make/Model

TM4 / Sumo HD

Configuration

Electric Motor

Configuration

Electric Motor

Power (hp/kW)

350kW

Power (hp/kW)

350kW

Torque (Nm)

3,500 Nm

Torque (Nm)

3,500 Nm

Oil Capacity (litres)

NA

Oil Capacity (litres)

NA

FUEL SOURCE / CAPACITY: Type

Hydrogen Electric

FUEL SOURCE / CAPACITY: Type

Battery Electric

Capacity

38 kg at 350 bar

Capacity

259 kWh

TRANSMISSION: Manual Model / Type

NA

Auto Model / Type

NA

AXLES:

Type – Front

DANA/NDS56LF/ Forged steel ‘I’ beam

Type – Rear

DANA/G150/Rigid, single ratio hypoid axle 1100kg

SUSPENSION: Type – Front

WABCO Electronic air suspension (ECAS) with 2 air bags, 2 shock absorbers, 4 Tie Rod Front

Type – Rear

WABCO Electronic air suspension (ECAS) with 4 air bags, 4 shock absorbers, ZF Anti Roll Bar

BRAKES:

TRANSMISSION: Manual Model / Type

NA

Auto Model / Type

NA

AXLES:

Type – Front

DANA/NDS56LF/ Forged steel ‘I’ beam

Type – Rear

DANA/G150/Rigid, single ratio hypoid axle 1100kg

SUSPENSION: Type – Front

WABCO Electronic air suspension (ECAS) with 2 air bags, 2 shock absorbers, 4 Tie Rod Front

Type – Rear

WABCO Electronic air suspension (ECAS) with 4 air bags, 4 shock absorbers, ZF Anti Roll Bar

BRAKES:

Service Brakes

WABCO EBS3 & ABS

Service Brakes

WABCO EBS3 & ABS

Retarding Brake System

Regeneration through motor

Retarding Brake System

Regeneration through motor

EBS

Yes

EBS

Yes

ELECTRONIC SYSTEM:

ELECTRONIC SYSTEM:

Alternator

Foripower 6kW DC/DC

Alternator

Foripower 6kW DC/DC

Starter

NA

Starter

NA

Batteries

2x 12/180Ah

Batteries

2x 12/180Ah

WHEELS & TYRES:

WHEELS & TYRES:

Type size

285/70 R19.5

Type size

285/70 R19.5

Rim Size

19.5x7.5

Rim Size

19.5x7.5

Wheel Type

Alcan Aluminium Alloy

Wheel Type

Alcan Aluminium Alloy

CLUTCH:

CLUTCH:

Model/Type

NA

Model/Type

NA

Diameter (mm)

NA

Diameter (mm)

NA

Control

NA

Control

NA

34

ABC 2024 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

busnews.com.au

WEB:

www.arccaus.com.au EMAIL:

info@arccaus.com.au ADDRESS:

PHONE:

Australia Wide: Peter Murley Samuel Yeo

0403 240 016 0491 614 629

13 Hume Road, Smithfield 2164 NSW

HYDROGEN

ELECTRIC

YEAR: 2022 MAKE: ARCC MODEL: H - VIKING

YEAR: 2022 MAKE: ARCC MODEL: B - VIKING

CATEGORY: 18 TONNE LOW ENTRY BUS - CITY ROUTE

CATEGORY: 18 TONNE LOW ENTRY BUS - CITY ROUTE

DIMENSIONS:

DIMENSIONS:

Length (m)

11.985

Length (m)

11.985

Wheelbase (mm)

6265

Wheelbase (mm)

6265

Front Overhang (mm)

2807

Front Overhang (mm)

2807

Rear Overhang (mm)

2913

Rear Overhang (mm)

2807

Turning Circle Diameter (m)

25m kerb to kerb

Turning Circle Diameter (m)

25m kerb to kerb

ENGINE:

ENGINE:

Make/Model

TM4 / Sumo MD

Make/Model

TM4 / Sumo MD

Configuration

Electric Motor

Configuration

Electric Motor

Power (hp/kW)

265kW

Power (hp/kW)

265kW

Torque (Nm)

2760 Nm

Torque (Nm)

2760 Nm

Oil Capacity (litres)

NA

Oil Capacity (litres)

NA

FUEL SOURCE / CAPACITY: Type

Hydrogen Electric

FUEL SOURCE / CAPACITY: Type

Battery Electric

Capacity

32 kg at 350 bar

Capacity

350 kWh

TRANSMISSION: Manual Model / Type

NA

Auto Model / Type

NA

AXLES:

Type – Front

Scania/AMA 780/ Forged steel ‘I’ beam

Type – Rear

Scania /ADA 1300/Rigid, single ratio hypoid axle 13000kg

SUSPENSION: Type – Front

WABCO Electronic air suspension (ECAS) with 2 air bags, 2 shock absorbers, 4 Tie Rod Front

Type – Rear

WABCO Electronic air suspension (ECAS) with 4 air bags, 4 shock absorbers, Scania Anti Roll Bar

BRAKES:

TRANSMISSION: Manual Model / Type

NA

Auto Model / Type

NA

AXLES:

Type – Front

Scania/AMA 780/ Forged steel ‘I’ beam

Type – Rear

Scania /ADA 1300/Rigid, single ratio hypoid axle 13000kg

SUSPENSION: Type – Front

WABCO Electronic air suspension (ECAS) with 2 air bags, 2 shock absorbers, 4 Tie Rod Front

Type – Rear

WABCO Electronic air suspension (ECAS) with 4 air bags, 4 shock absorbers, Scania Anti Roll Bar

BRAKES:

Service Brakes

WABCO EBS3 & ABS

Service Brakes

WABCO EBS3 & ABS

Retarding Brake System

Regeneration through motor

Retarding Brake System

Regeneration through motor

EBS

Yes

EBS

Yes

ELECTRONIC SYSTEM:

ELECTRONIC SYSTEM:

Alternator

Foripower 6kW DC/DC

Alternator

Foripower 6kW DC/DC

Starter

NA

Starter

NA

Batteries

2x 12/180Ah

Batteries

2x 12/180Ah

WHEELS & TYRES:

WHEELS & TYRES:

Type size

295/80 R22.5

Type size

295/80 R22.5

Rim Size

8.25 x 22.5

Rim Size

8.25 x 22.5

Wheel Type

Steel Or Alloy

Wheel Type

Steel Or Alloy

CLUTCH:

CLUTCH:

Model/Type

NA

Model/Type

NA

Diameter (mm)

NA

Diameter (mm)

NA

Control

NA

Control

NA

busnews.com.au

ABC 2024 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

35

CHASSIS & BODIES

BLK AUTO

HEAVY LIFT

BLK Auto will usher in 2024 with a number of new and innovative transport solutions ready for local operators as it takes the next step in evolving its technology

B

LK Auto Bus & Coach Sales had a busy 2023 spent expanding its product range, evolving its wide suite of chassis and body options. Now, it’s primed to hit 2024 with plenty of new models coming out for Australian bus and coach operators.

“One such product that will be released early in 2024 is the new President 3 Dual Tyre Lazy coach,” BLK Auto executive David Jiear told ABC. “When considering what operators are wanting, we sought industry feedback from operators who are accustomed to these types of vehicles.”

The dual tyre lazy project is a blast from the past, harking back to a feature once included on an old Denning range. The model is no longer built and sold in Australia, with BLK Auto deciding to reinvigorate the fan favourite.

36

ABC 2024 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

IMAGES BLK AUTO The dual tyre lazy feature will allow the mass limit of the updated President 3 model to increase. BLK Auto has spent time ensuring that the updated model complies with Australian Design Rules (ADRs) and real-world passenger weights.

By using the luxury President 3 Coach as the model to include the dual tyre lazy feature on, engineers at BLK were able to find a solution which provides a standard 14.5m coach with a wheelchair and toilet onboard. Alongside this, BLK Auto was able to provide a product that has a low tare weight and a high GVM. “As the needs of operators differ based on their individual circumstances, BLK has opted to go standard with an 800L fuel tank,” Jiear says.

“For operators with higher demands, we’ve integrated into the design the

option for a secondary 600L tank if operators require it.”

Powered by a Cummins 11.8L, 480hp X12 Euro 6 engine, BLK has taken onboard operator recommendations for its latest model. It’s set to pay dividends, with one key benefit of the new model arriving in 2024 being its increased load capacity.

Jiear says the design configuration helps to distribute the weight of the bus more evenly, allowing for a greater load capacity. This suits operators wanting to accommodate both increased passengers and heavier cargo.

The Cummins Euro 6 engine provides a peak torque of 2,400Nm, with its optimised power curve making life easier for drivers courtesy of less gear changes being required and improved fuel efficiency.

busnews.com.au

WHAT TO LOOK FORWARD TO IN 2024

BLK Auto national sales manager Mark Nichols says driver satisfaction will continue to soar with excellent low speed torque enabling faster acceleration and improved gradient climbing, while increased stability when driving on the road will be noticeable when travelling on undulating roads and when cornering.

busnews.com.au

“With a keen eye on improvement, the new 2024 BLK President 3 Dual Tyre Lazy coach comes standard with full laminated glass down the sides, except for safety glass at emergency exits,” Nichols told ABC. “The new axle system has been designed and engineered in Australia by specialist engineers taking all factors into consideration.”

Nichols says a major benefit of the new coach model is that operators can cantilever more weight off the steer, providing an important step forward by solving a common problem that plagues other similar sized vehicles.

The idea behind the new model is to help the bus industry “put more bums on seats” by optimising both range and carrying capacity.

Jiear says the dual tyre lazy option ticks the boxes, having already secured its first orders.

Coming in both a single and double-deck model option, the 2024 President 3 Dual Tyre Lazy option varies between 62 and 71 seats depending on final configuration.

The new coach will soon join the BLK fold that includes the Senator, ranging from 8 to 14, the wider President range, the Citystar suite, the evShuttle and battery electric and hydrogen fuel-cell options.

Nichols says this model is an exciting step forward for BLK Auto, who won’t waste time when it comes to introducing the President 3 Dual Tyre Lazy coach.

“We’ve opted to release this range immediately with the Euro 6 engine as it just made solid commercial sense,” Nichols says.

“The Euro 6 will come in 2024, so we wanted to ensure that this model had the reduced emissions required from the start.”

As part of the total experience, the first customers of the President 3 Dual Tyre Lazy coach will enjoy a trip to China in early 2024 to road test the new coach prior to it being shipped to Australia.

“As part of this trip, we’ll be arranging meetings with the operators and our factory engineers to discuss suggested improvements that can be made to other models,” Jiear says.

“We have a wealth of knowledge and experience in Australia with operators who face challenges on a day-to-day basis, so being able to sit down and articulate some of the challenges with our factory will then be looked at as part of our continual improvement program moving forward.”

“The new axle system has been designed and engineered in Australia by specialist engineers taking all factors into consideration.”

Top: From double decker coaches to sleek zero-emissions buses, BLK has a diverse range of vehicles Left: BLK’s dual tyre lazy project is set to excite many operators and bus nuts

ABC 2024 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

37

CHASSIS & BODIES

BLK AUTO

ADDRESS:

WEB:

PHONE:

EMAIL:

44 Commerce Circuit Yatala Qld 4207

info@blkauto.com.au

1300 287 377

MAKE: BLK

www.blkauto.com.au

MODEL: SENATOR 8/9

MAKE: BLK

MODEL: SENATOR 12/14

APPLICATION: SCHOOL/CHARTER/DAY TOUR

APPLICATION: SCHOOL/CHARTER/DAY TOUR

CHASSIS DIMENSIONS:

CHASSIS DIMENSIONS:

Chassis Length (m)

9.77 - Senator 9 Model, other lengths available

Chassis Length (m)

12.36 - Senator 12 Model, other lengths available

Chassis Wheelbase (mm)

4760

Chassis Wheelbase (mm)

6300

Chassis Front Overhang (mm)

2495

Chassis Front Overhang (mm)

2104

Chassis Rear Overhang (mm)

3440

Chassis Rear Overhang (mm)

1897

ENGINE:

ENGINE:

Make / Model

Cummins ISF204 to Cummins ISB300

Make / Model

Cummins ISL320 to Cummins ISL360

Configuration

4.5L / 6.7L

Configuration

8.9L

Power (HP / kW)

210-300hP

Power (HP / kW)

320-360hP

Fuel Capacity (litres)

400L

Fuel Capacity (litres)

400L

Emissions

Euro 5/6

Emissions

Euro 5/6

TRANSMISSION:

Auto Trans Make/ Model/ Description

SUSPENSION:

TRANSMISSION:

Auto Trans Make/ Model/ Description

Allison Automatic

Type – Front

Air Suspension with 2 Air Bags

Type – Rear

Air Suspension with 4 Air Bags

BRAKES:

SUSPENSION:

Allison Automatic

Type – Front

Air Suspension with 2 Air Bags

Type – Rear

Air Suspension with 4 Air Bags

BRAKES:

Service Brakes

Disc

Service Brakes

Disc

Retarding Brake System

Yes

Retarding Brake System

Yes

EBS & ESC

Standard

EBS & ESC

Standard

BODY DIMENSIONS: Body Length (metres)

8.80 to 9.8

BODY OPTIONS: Wheelchair Lift Access

Optional

Body Width (metres)

2.5

CD/PA/Radio

Optional

DVD/TV

Optional

Toilet

Optional

Individual Reading Lights

Yes

Individual AC Vents

Yes

Reverse Camera

Yes

Additional options

Many available on request

Body Height (metres)

3.230

Body Floor Height (mm)

NA

Body Weight (kg)

13500 -15000

SEATING:

Seating Capacity

33-43

Passenger Capacity

33-44

Fixed Coach

Standard

Recliners

Optional

Metro

NA

SEATING OPTIONS: Seating Make

Fainsa

Seatbelts

Yes

AIR-CONDITIONING: AC Std

Yes - Climate Control

AC Make

Spheros

38

AXLES:

Front Make / Model / Desc.

KOMAN

Rear Make / Model / Desc.

Meritor

STORAGE:

Body Length (metres)

12 to 14.5

BODY OPTIONS: Wheelchair Lift Access

Optional

Body Width (metres)

2.5

CD/PA/Radio

Optional

DVD/TV

Optional

Toilet

Optional

Individual Reading Lights

Yes

Individual AC Vents

Yes

Reverse Camera

Yes

Additional options

Many available on request

Body Height (metres)

3.46

Body Floor Height (mm)

NA

Body Weight (kg)

18020 to 23010

SEATING:

Seating Capacity

57-71

Passenger Capacity

57-72

Fixed Coach

Standard

Recliners

Optional

Metro

NA

SEATING OPTIONS:

Through Bin

Yes

Internal Luggage Bins

Yes

ABC 2024 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

BODY DIMENSIONS:

Seating Make

Fainsa

Seatbelts

Yes

AIR-CONDITIONING: AC Std

Yes - Climate Control

AC Make

Spheros

AXLES:

Front Make / Model / Desc.

KOMAN

Rear Make / Model / Desc.

Meritor

STORAGE: Through Bin

Yes

Internal Luggage Bins

Yes

busnews.com.au

ADDRESS:

WEB:

PHONE:

EMAIL:

44 Commerce Circuit Yatala Qld 4207

info@blkauto.com.au

1300 287 377

MAKE: BLK

www.blkauto.com.au

MAKE: BLK

MODEL: PRESIDENT 2

MODEL: PRESIDENT 3

APPLICATION: SCHOOL/CHARTER/DAY TOUR

APPLICATION: CHARTER/DAY TOUR/RAIL/LONG DISTANCE

CHASSIS DIMENSIONS:

CHASSIS DIMENSIONS:

Chassis Length (m)

12.36 (also available in 13.2m)

Chassis Length (m)

13.67 (also available in other lengths)

Chassis Wheelbase (mm)

6300

Chassis Wheelbase (mm)

8625

Chassis Front Overhang (mm)

2490

Chassis Front Overhang (mm)

2215

Chassis Rear Overhang (mm)

3700

Chassis Rear Overhang (mm)

3660

ENGINE:

ENGINE:

Make / Model

Cummins ISL360

Make / Model

Cummins X12

Configuration

8.9L

Configuration

11.8 L

Power (HP / kW)

360hp

Power (HP / kW)

480HP

Fuel Capacity (litres)

400L

Fuel Capacity (litres)

400L

Emissions

Euro 5 /Euro 6/ Electric or FCEV Optional

Emissions

Euro 5 / Euro 6 / Electric or FCEV Optional

TRANSMISSION:

Auto Trans Make/ Model/ Description

SUSPENSION:

TRANSMISSION:

Auto Trans Make/ Model/ Description

Allison Automatic

Type – Front

Air Suspension with 2 Air Bags

Type – Rear

Air Suspension with 4 Air Bags

BRAKES:

SUSPENSION:

Allison Automatic

Type – Front

Air Suspension with 2 Air Bags

Type – Rear

Air Suspension with 6 Air Bags

BRAKES:

Service Brakes

Disc

Service Brakes

Disc

Retarding Brake System

Yes

Retarding Brake System

Yes

EBS & ESC

Standard

EBS & ESC

Standard

BODY DIMENSIONS: Body Length (metres)

12.36 to 13.2

BODY OPTIONS: Wheelchair Lift Access

Optional

Body Width (metres)

2.5

CD/PA/Radio

Yes

DVD/TV

Yes

Toilet

Optional

Individual Reading Lights

Yes

Individual AC Vents

Yes

Reverse Camera

Yes

Additional options

Many available on request

Body Height (metres)

3.62

Body Floor Height (mm)

Option 1450 or 1600

Body Weight (kg)

18500kg

SEATING:

Seating Capacity

48-61

Passenger Capacity

36-61*3 for 2 Optional

Fixed Coach

Standard

Recliners

Optional

Metro

N/A

SEATING OPTIONS: Seating Make Seatbelts

Sege / McConnell/ Styleride Yes

AIR-CONDITIONING: AC Std

Yes-Climate Control

AC Make

Spheros / Coachair / Thermo King

busnews.com.au

AXLES:

Front Make / Model / Desc.

ZF

Rear Make / Model / Desc.

Meritor / ZF Optional

STORAGE: Through Bin

Yes

Internal Luggage Bins

Yes

BODY DIMENSIONS: Body Length (metres)

Body Width (metres)

12.5M 13.5M 13.7M 14.5M 2.5

Body Height (metres)

3.62

Body Floor Height (mm)

Option 1450 or 1600

Body Weight (kg)

SEATING:

BODY OPTIONS: Wheelchair Lift Access

Optional

CD/PA/Radio

Yes

DVD/TV

Yes

Toilet

Optional

Individual Reading Lights

Yes

Individual AC Vents

Yes

Reverse Camera

Yes

Additional options

Many available on request

23010Kg

AXLES:

Seating Capacity

48-71

Passenger Capacity

48-71

Fixed Coach

Yes

Recliners

Yes

Metro

N/A

SEATING OPTIONS:

Front Make / Model / Desc.

ZF

Rear Make / Model / Desc.

ZF

STORAGE:

Seating Make

Sege / McConnell/ Styleride

Seatbelts

Yes

Through Bin

Yes

Internal Luggage Bins

Yes

AIR-CONDITIONING: AC Std

Yes-Climate Control

AC Make

Spheros / Coachair / Thermo King

ABC 2024 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

39

CHASSIS & BODIES

BLK AUTO

ADDRESS:

WEB:

PHONE:

EMAIL:

44 Commerce Circuit Yatala Qld 4207

info@blkauto.com.au

1300 287 377

MAKE: BLK

www.blkauto.com.au

MODEL: PRESIDENT 3 DUAL TYRE LAZY

MAKE: BLK

MODEL: PRESIDENT DOUBLE DECKER

APPLICATION: CHARTER/DAY TOUR/RAIL

APPLICATION: CHARTER/DAY TOUR/RAIL

CHASSIS DIMENSIONS:

CHASSIS DIMENSIONS:

Chassis Length (m)

13.67 (also available in other lengths)

Chassis Length (m)

12.5

Chassis Wheelbase (mm)

8625

Chassis Wheelbase (mm)

5925 +1500

Chassis Front Overhang (mm)

2215

Chassis Front Overhang (mm)

2500

Chassis Rear Overhang (mm)

3660

Chassis Rear Overhang (mm)

4200

ENGINE:

ENGINE:

Make / Model

Cummins ISX12 Euro VI

Make / Model

Cummins X12

Configuration

11.8 L

Configuration

11.8 L

Power (HP / kW)

470Hp

Power (HP / kW)

480HP

Fuel Capacity (litres)

800L with optional 600L secondary fuel tank

Fuel Capacity (litres)

400L

Emissions

Euro 6

Emissions

Euro 5 /6 FCEV Optional

TRANSMISSION:

Auto Trans Make/ Model/ Description

SUSPENSION:

TRANSMISSION:

Auto Trans Make/ Model/ Description

Allison Automatic

Type – Front

Air Suspension with 2 Air Bags

Type – Rear

Air Suspension with 6 Air Bags

BRAKES:

SUSPENSION:

Allison Automatic

Type – Front

Air Suspension with 2 Air Bags

Type – Rear

Air Suspension with 6 Air Bags

BRAKES:

Service Brakes

Disc

Service Brakes

Disc

Retarding Brake System

Yes

Retarding Brake System

Yes

EBS & ESC

Standard

EBS & ESC

Standard

BODY DIMENSIONS: Body Length (metres)

13.67M

Body Width (metres)

2.5

Body Height (metres)

3.62

Body Floor Height (mm)

1600

Body Weight (kg)

23,000 *

SEATING:

Seating Capacity

62 - 71

Passenger Capacity

62 - 71

Fixed Coach

Optional

Recliners

Standard

Metro

N/A

SEATING OPTIONS: Seating Make

Sege / McConnell/ Styleride

Seatbelts

Yes

*NSW Class 3

40

BODY OPTIONS: Wheelchair Lift Access

Optional

CD/PA/Radio

Yes

DVD/TV

Yes

Toilet

Optional

Individual Reading Lights

Yes

Individual AC Vents

Yes

Reverse Camera

Yes

Additional options

Many available on request

AXLES:

Front Make / Model / Desc.

ZF

Rear Make / Model / Desc.

Meritor + BLK Autstralia

STORAGE:

BODY DIMENSIONS: Body Length (metres)

12.5

Body Width (metres)

2.5

Body Height (metres)

4.29

Body Floor Height (mm)

NA

Body Weight (kg)

24500

SEATING:

Seating Capacity

65-71 (+Courier Seat)

Passenger Capacity

65-71 + Courier Seat

Fixed Coach

Optional

Recliners

Standard

Metro

N/A

SEATING OPTIONS:

Through Bin

Yes

Internal Luggage Bins

Yes

Seating Make

Sege / McConnell/ Styleride

Seatbelts

Yes

BODY OPTIONS: Wheelchair Lift Access

N/A

CD/PA/Radio

N/A

DVD/TV

N/A

Toilet

Standard

Individual Reading Lights

Yes

Individual AC Vents

Yes

Reverse Camera

Yes

Additional options

Many available on request

AXLES:

Front Make / Model / Desc.

ZF

Rear Make / Model / Desc.

ZF

STORAGE: Through Bin

Yes

Internal Luggage Bins

Yes

AIR-CONDITIONING: AC Std

Yes-Climate Control

AIR-CONDITIONING: AC Std

Yes-Climate Control

AC Make

Spheros /Coachair / Thermo King

AC Make

Valeo /Coachair / Thermo King

ABC 2024 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

busnews.com.au

ADDRESS:

WEB:

PHONE:

EMAIL:

44 Commerce Circuit Yatala Qld 4207

info@blkauto.com.au

1300 287 377

MAKE: BLK

www.blkauto.com.au

MODEL: CITYSTAR 9.8 COMBO

MAKE: BLK

MODEL: CITYSTAR

APPLICATION: SCHOOL/ROUTE SERVICE

APPLICATION: SCHOOL/ROUTE SERVICE

CHASSIS DIMENSIONS:

CHASSIS DIMENSIONS:

Chassis Length (m)

9500

Chassis Length (m)

12.45 (other lengths availablem, 11.5 & 18m articulated)

Chassis Wheelbase (mm)

4640

Chassis Wheelbase (mm)

6460

Chassis Front Overhang (mm)

2069

Chassis Front Overhang (mm)

2500

Chassis Rear Overhang (mm)

1858

Chassis Rear Overhang (mm)

1847

ENGINE:

ENGINE:

Make / Model

Cummins ISD245

Make / Model

Cummins ISB300 or ISL320/ISL340

Configuration

6.7L

Configuration

6.7L/8.9L

Power (HP / kW)

245HP

Power (HP / kW)

300HP / 340HP

Fuel Capacity (litres)

300L

Fuel Capacity (litres)

300L

Emissions

Euro5/6 BEV Optional

Emissions

Euro 5 Euro 6/BEV & FCEV Optional

TRANSMISSION:

Auto Trans Make/ Model/ Description

SUSPENSION:

TRANSMISSION:

Auto Trans Make/ Model/ Description

Allison Automatic

Type – Front

Air Suspension with 2 Air Bags

Type – Rear

Air Suspension with 4 Air Bags

BRAKES:

SUSPENSION:

Allison Automatic

Type – Front

Air Suspension with 2 Air Bags

Type – Rear

Air Suspension with 4 Air Bags

BRAKES:

Service Brakes

Disc

Service Brakes

Disc

Retarding Brake System

Yes

Retarding Brake System

Yes

EBS & ESC

Standard

EBS & ESC

Standard

BODY DIMENSIONS: Body Length (metres)

9.5M

Body Width (metres)

2.5

Body Height (metres)

3.65

Body Floor Height (mm)

N/A

Body Weight (kg)

11800

SEATING:

Seating Capacity

33 including 4 x Wheelchair Positions

Passenger Capacity

34 including 4 x Wheelchair Positions

Fixed Coach

NA

Recliners

NA

Metro

Standard

SEATING OPTIONS: Seating Make

Seatbelts

busnews.com.au

Fainsa / Sege / McConnell / Styleride Yes

BODY OPTIONS: Wheelchair Lift Access

Yes

CD/PA/Radio

Yes

DVD/TV

Yes

Toilet

N/A

Individual Reading Lights

BODY DIMENSIONS: Body Length (metres)

11.5M 12.5M 18.0M

BODY OPTIONS: Wheelchair Lift Access

Yes

CD/PA/Radio

Yes

DVD/TV

Yes

Toilet

N/A

Body Width (metres)

2.5

N/A

Body Height (metres)

3.34

Individual Reading Lights

N/A

Individual AC Vents

N/A

Body Floor Height (mm)

NA

Individual AC Vents

N/A

Reverse Camera

Yes

Body Weight (kg)

18010

Reverse Camera

Yes

Additional options

Many available on request

SEATING:

Additional options

Many available on request

AXLES:

Front Make / Model / Desc.

ZF

Rear Make / Model / Desc.

ZF / Meritor

STORAGE: Through Bin

NA

Internal Luggage Bins

NA

AIR-CONDITIONING: AC Std

Yes-Climate Control

AC Make

Spheros /Coachair / Thermo King

Seating Capacity

48-77

Passenger Capacity

48-78

Fixed Coach

N/A

Recliners

N/A

Metro

Standard

SEATING OPTIONS: Seating Make

Seatbelts

Fainsa / Sege / McConnell / Styleride Yes

AXLES:

Front Make / Model / Desc.

ZF

Rear Make / Model / Desc.

ZF / Meritor

STORAGE: Through Bin

Side Bins

Internal Luggage Bins

NA

AIR-CONDITIONING: AC Std

Yes-Climate Control

AC Make

Spheros /Coachair / Thermo King

ABC 2024 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

41

CHASSIS & BODIES

BLK AUTO

ADDRESS:

WEB:

PHONE:

EMAIL:

44 Commerce Circuit Yatala Qld 4207

1300 287 377

www.blkauto.com.au info@blkauto.com.au

ELECTRIC

YEAR: 2024

MAKE: BLK MODEL: CITYSTAR EV

APPLICATION: ROUTE, CHARTER, SCHOOL, DDA DIMENSIONS: Length (m)

12.5

Chassis Wheelbase (mm)

6460

Chassis Front Overhang (mm)

2500

Chassis Rear Overhang (mm)

1847

ENGINE: Make

Dana TM4

Model

SUMO HD HV3500-9P

Configuration

Prop shaft direct drive traction motor

Power (kW)

370

Power (hp)

496

Torque (Nm)

3445

Emissions

Zero

FUEL SYSTEM: Fuel Type

Battery Electric (BEV)

Governor

Electronic

Air Cleaner

Yes

Capacity

350kW

AXLES:

Front Axle Make

ZF

Front Axle Model

ZF RL82A

Front Axle Description

Forged steel ‘I’ beam

Rear Axle Make

ZF

Rear Axle Model

ZF AV133

Rear Axle Description

Portal Axle - Low Floor

SUSPENSION:

Front Suspension Description Rear Suspension Description

BRAKES:

Electronic air suspension (ECAS) with air bellows, torsion bars, stabilizer bar and shock absorbers Electronic air suspension (ECAS) with air bellows, torsion bars, stabilizer bar and shock absorbers

Alternator

DC/DC convertor

Batteries

2x 12V/135Ah

Electronic Options

Low Voltage 24V

WHEELS AND TYRES:

Service Brakes

Ventilated disc brakes, ABS.

Retarding Brake System

Electric regeneration

EBS/ESC

EBS/ESC

42

ELECTRONIC SYSTEMS:

ABC 2024 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

Tyre Size

295/80R 22.5

Rim Size

8.25 x 22.5

Wheel Type

Aluminium

busnews.com.au

ADDRESS:

WEB:

PHONE:

EMAIL:

44 Commerce Circuit Yatala Qld 4207

1300 287 377

YEAR: 2024

MAKE: BLK MODEL: PRESIDENT

www.blkauto.com.au info@blkauto.com.au

YEAR: 2024

MAKE: BLK MODEL: SENATOR 12

APPLICATION: SCHOOL/CHARTER/RAIL/ LONG DISTANCE

APPLICATION: SCHOOL AND CHARTER

BODY SPECIFICATIONS:

BODY SPECIFICATIONS:

Frame Material

Australian Duragal Plus AS/NZS Option: Stainless Steel

Frame Material

Australian Duragal Plus AS/NZS Option: Stainless Steel

Body Material

Fibreglass Front and Rear Panels

Body Material

Fibreglass Front and Rear Panels

Seating Capacity

43 -61

Seating Capacity

43 -61

No of Doors

1 Door

No of Doors

1 Door

SEATING :

SEATING :

Seating Type

Fixed or Recliner Option

Seating Type

Fixed or Recliner Option

Make

Sege / Styleride / Mconnell

Make

Sege / Styleride / Mconnell

Seatbelts

Yes Standard

Seatbelts

Yes Standard

DIMENSIONS:

DIMENSIONS:

Length (m)

10.8 to 14.5

Length (m)

Option From 10.8Metre to 14.5Metre

Body Width (m)

2.5

Body Width (m)

2.5

Body Height (m)

3.62

Body Height (m)

3.62

Body Floor Height (m)

1450 / 1600

Body Floor Height (m)

1250

STORAGE: Thru Bins

Standard

Internal Luggage Bins

Standard

AIR-CONDITIONING: Air-Conditioning

Standard

Make

Valeo / Coachair / Thermo King

OPTIONS:

STORAGE: Thru Bins

Standard

Internal Luggage Bins

Standard

AIR-CONDITIONING: Air-Conditioning

Standard

Make

Valeo / Coachair / Thermo King

OPTIONS:

Wheelchair Lift Access

Optional

Wheelchair Lift Access

Optional

CD-PA-Radio

Standard

CD-PA-Radio

Standard

DVD-TV

Standard

DVD-TV

Standard

Toilet

Optional

Toilet

Optional

Individual Reading Lights

Standard

Individual Reading Lights

Standard

Individual AC Vents

Standard

Individual AC Vents

Standard

Reverse Camera

Standard

Reverse Camera

Standard

Other Body Options

Bullbar , Stoneguard, Mining Specification, CCTV , School Lights Kits - Many Other Options

Other Body Options

Bullbar , Stoneguard, Mining Specification, CCTV , School Lights Kits - Many Other Options

busnews.com.au

ABC 2024 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

43

CHASSIS & BODIES

BUSTECH GROUP

WHAT TO LOOK FORWARD TO IN 2024

FLEXIBLE OPTIONS

The BusTech Group is positioned to deliver on customer requirements with its range of diesel, hybrid and electric low floor city buses and articulated buses IMAGES BUSTECH GROUP

A

ustralian bus manufacturer BusTech Group has a range of body options which are suitable for overseas chassis as well as its market leading integrated body and chassis.

Its VST model range of stainless steel bodies has been a popular addition on top of chassis from major European brands like Scania, MAN and Volvo for more than 30 years, servicing customers in South Australia, Queensland, Victoria and NSW. The BusTech integrated body and chassis has evolved over a number of years, culminating in the development of BusTech’s own battery electric in the BusTech ZDI. BusTech Chief Commercial Officer Ross Stonard says the ZDI has been completely designed, engineered and manufactured in Australia with a high level of local content.

“The ZDI is our electric bus model that features our own integrated architecture,” Stonard told ABC. “The body and chassis is integrated as one, providing weight saving benefits for operators.”

There are electric batteries fitted onto the vehicle’s roof, while two additional batteries are located underneath the vehicle, making the bus unique in the Australian market. Stonard says this 44

ABC 2024 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

battery make-up means the bus body has improved dynamics, with the centre of gravity being lower.

“The total battery capacity is also among the largest in the market, providing 452kWh of energy and a range of more than 400km,” Stonard says.

The bus has been running in NSW and Queensland for the past year, with Stonard saying the feedback has been extremely good. The buses are remotely monitored from a central location, providing a constant feedback loop to customers.

“The information we are obtaining on our vehicles in operation will enable us to evolve our offering to customers,” Stonard says.

While states and territories accelerate towards zero-emission fleets, Stonard says there will still be the need for diesel and hybrid buses to sustain replacement cycles and service the regions. He says BusTech Group’s VST diesel options are perfectly suited to service this sector of the Australian market.

“Our VST body on OEM diesel and hybrid chassis provides options to operators who aren’t ready for the transition to zero-emissions,” Stonard says.

“The body has been built on hybrid chassis as well as on diesel and

The BusTech Group has a flexible body architecture that enables it to manufacture on multiple chassis variants with varying powertrain options, as well as producing its own battery electric bus.

“Customers will have different requirements in 2024, and onwards. As the transition to zeroemissions buses accelerates in metro areas, the requirement for diesel buses will be maintained in regional areas,” Stonard says.

“BusTech is ready to meet the demands of the market.”

articulated. We can do whatever the customer requires.”

This flexibility has been evidenced in South Australia, with BusTech Group providing the bodies on Scania’s diesel, hybrid and battery electric models that have recently been delivered in the state.

While BusTech continues to supply the VST body for diesel options, it will also provide a version of that body for a wide range of low and zero-emissions options through BusTech’s EVST body range.

“We are unique in the Australian market as we are the only Australian body builder manufacturing on an OEM electric chassis while also having our own OEM battery electric vehicle, giving us options,” Stonard says.

“This flexibility provides us and our customers with the best of both worlds and endless options.”

Above: BusTech is delivering a range of bodies on Scania chassis in South Australia Below: The evolving Australian brand is looking to further increase its electric capabilities

busnews.com.au

CHASSIS & BODIES

BUSTECH GROUP

ADDRESS:

1543 Ipswich Road, Rocklea Queensland, 4106

WEB:

www.bustechgroup.com.au EMAIL:

sales@bustechgroup.com.au

ELECTRIC

MAKE: BUSTECH MODEL: ZDI-450

MAKE: BUSTECH MODEL: eVST & VST

TYPE: INTEGRATED - ELECTRIC - RIGID

TYPE: BODY - DIESEL, HYBRID, ELECTRIC - RIGID & ARTICULATED

CATEGORY: CITY ROUTE - CITY BUS

CATEGORY: CITY ROUTE - CITY BUS

DIMENSIONS:

BODY SPECIFICATIONS:

Chassis Length (m)

12.5m

Chassis Wheelbase (mm)

6660

Chassis Front Overhang (mm)

2600

Chassis Rear Overhang (mm)

3200

Turning Circle (m)

21.9

Frame Material

304 Grade Stainless Steel

Body Material

Fibreglass front & rear header, roof and side sheets.

Removable aluminium side skirts.

Seating Capacity

42-59

Number of Doors

1-2 for Rigid, 3 for articulated

SEATING :

ENGINE:

Seating Type

Metro

Seating Make

Various

Seating Model

Various

22000 Nm

Seatbelts

No

NA

BODY DIMENSIONS:

Make/Model

ZF/ AVE130

Configuration

2x Electric Hub Motors

Power (kW)(hp)

500kW/ 670hp

Torque (Nm) Oil Capacity (litres)

ENERGY SYSTEM: Type

Battery Electric - Proterra Battery Packs

Capacity

452 kWh

Cooling

Passive and Active cooling systems

BODY SPECIFICATIONS:

Body Length (m)

11.7m - 12.5m Rigid (all powertrains) & 18m Articulated (Diesel only)

Body Width (m)

2.5

Body Height (m)

3.2-3.4

STORAGE: Side Bins

No

Thru Bins

No

Internal Luggage Bins

No

Frame Material

304 Grade Stainless Steel

Body Material

Fibreglass front & rear header, roof and side sheets.

Removable aluminium side skirts.

Seating Capacity

46 inc Driver

Passenger Capacity

66

AIR-CONDITIONING: Air-Conditioning

Yes

Number of Doors

1-2

Air-Conditioning Make & Model

Customer Choice

Seating Type

Metro

OPTIONS:

Wheelchair Access

Yes

Seating Make

Various

CD-PA-Radio

Yes

Seating Model

Various

Passenger USB

Yes

Seatbelts

No

Hearing Aid Loop

Yes

Passenger Information

Customer Choice

SEATING :

BODY DIMENSIONS: Body Length (m)

12.5

CCTV

Customer Choice

Body Width (m)

2.5

Reverse Camera

Yes

Body Height (m)

3.38

Other Body Options

Wireless bell presses,bonded windows, electric saloon doors, Ultra low floor, TS160 compliant, reversing sensors. TS150 compliant school warning system

AIR-CONDITIONING: Air-Conditioning

Yes

Air-Conditioning Make & Model

Customer Choice

OPTIONS:

Wheelchair Access

Yes

CD-PA-Radio

Yes

Passenger USB

Yes

Hearing Aid Loop

Yes

Passenger Information

Customer Choice

CCTV

Customer Choice

Reverse Camera

Yes

Other Body Options

Advance driver systems and telematics, wireless bell presses, bonded windows, electric saloon doors, Ultra low floor, Active battery management, AVAS System, battery specific fire supression system, Pantograph charging option, CCS2 DC charging port, TPMS, Digital drivers workplace, Full multiplex design, TS160 compliant, Reversing sensors. TS150 compliant school warning system

busnews.com.au

ABC 2024 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

45

CHASSIS & BODIES

CHALLENGER

HIGH CALLIBAR

A successful 2023 for Challenger Bus & Coach will see it hit 2024 with a new model on the way and the potential for electric IMAGES CHALLENGER

2

023 was a massive year for the evolving entity of Challenger Bus & Coach. 2023 saw Challenger cement its place as one of the leading vehicle manufactures in the Australian bus and coach market.

“Our leading models are really starting to take their place in the local market and we have developed a strong presence,” Challenger Victorian sales manager Dan Campbell told ABC. “We’ve seen repeat orders from loyal customers and have received multiple vehicle orders – it’s been an exciting time.”

This growth for Challenger has been off the back of its two-pronged fleet consisting of the V10 and V12 models. Both have become popular models for local operators. These models have become consistent parts of operator’s fleets, including the likes of repeat customers Whitmore Group in Victoria and Pinnacle Tours in Western Australia.

Instead of all coming in the same configuration, a key feature of Challenger’s rise in 2023 is due to the tailorable nature of its models.

It recently provided an example of this when it built a V12 stock vehicle in a 12m toilet-equipped coach that includes 50 reclining seats with fold-away tray tables, drink holders and USB chargers for passengers.

“One of our main assets is our flexibility,” Campbell says. “Anything an operator may want, we can build it!

“Both our V10 and V12 models can be built as stock-standard school buses or as luxury coaches with a premium interior and reclining seats.

“We’ve always been versatile and happy to work with customers to build whatever they want to see.”

While the V10 and V12 have become a trusted part of Challenger’s fleet, there’s a new player set to enter the market. In 2024, Challenger is set to introduce a new seven-metre model to differentiate its offerings to local operators.

The new seven-metre Challenger model will come standard with 29 seats while giving operators the famous Challenger flexibility that allows them to change this configuration if required. A major point 46

ABC 2024 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

“Much like the well-known V10 and V12 options, the Callibar will focus on flexibility, allowing customers plenty of choice throughout the build process.” of difference for this vehicle will be its independent front suspension alongside the usual standard Challenger inclusions and quality of build that has become associated with its products.

“We really think that this vehicle will take the market by storm in 2024,” Campbell says.

The new model, to be called the Challenger Callibar, is the brand’s new avenue to expand into another market in the bus and coach industry. Much like the well-known V10 and V12 options, the Callibar will focus on flexibility, allowing customers plenty of choice throughout

the build process.

Campbell says the first few Callibars that will be out in Australia will be built to a stock-standard school bus set-up, with there being plenty of plans afterwards to begin tailoring the smaller vehicle model to certain requirements.

“The room to grow with this model is endless once it comes out on the road,” he says.

“In terms of design, we’ll be working with operators to try and fulfil their needs with this different type of vehicle.”

Campbell says there has already been plenty of interest for the Callibar busnews.com.au

generated among operators that he has spoken to. With the first prototype set to arrive in Australia in the opening months of 2024, Challenger will be quickly getting this new model out on the road to showcase its potential as a new market entrant.

“We’ll be getting these prototypes out nice and fast to allow operators to test drive and look at the Callibar in the flesh,” Campbell says.

“We expect orders to then come thick and fast so that the Callibar can supplement our alreadysuccessful V10 and V12 models.”

Opposite top: Challenger’s vehicles continue to focus on passenger and driver comfort Above: The Calibarr will continue to have the comfortable features that Challenger is known for Below: Challenger’s buses and coaches can come with toilets and other additions

busnews.com.au

WHAT TO LOOK FORWARD TO IN 2024 While 2024 looks set to be an even larger year for the growing Challenger than the highly successful 2023 was, the brand won’t be getting too big for its boots.

While Campbell admits Challenger is still in the process of transitioning its V10 and V12 models to Euro 6 versions, he says the brand will remain astute and keep an eye on potentially introducing electric vehicle options in 2024.

“The market will see an increased presence from us, with a lot more vehicles on the road in 2024,” Campbell says.

“Our profile is continuing to build and the new model Callibar will only help that – we believe it’ll be the best vehicle of its size in the market.”

When the Callibar is added to the Challenger stable, Campbell says its range will “cover most bases” for local operators looking for vehicles.

In the back half of 2024, Campbell is then expecting Challenger to dip its toes in the electric sphere through the release of a low-floor zeroemissions model.

“It’s incredibly exciting – we’ve seen a huge increase over the past 12 months in our sales and we’ll be looking to replicate that again in 2024,” Campbell says.

“The most exciting part for us is that we’ve been able to maintain and provide our personal aftersales service for customers, even with more and more vehicles hitting the road.”

With more sales expected in 2024, Campbell says Challenger is preparing to expand and increase its aftersales network in Australia. He says Challenger’s website, which also showcases its growing parts side in Australasian Bus & Coach Parts, will be the home of Challenger’s emerging capabilities in 2024.

“We have plenty of information and video content available on what we can offer customers,” Campbell says.

“We’d love for people to get in touch with us if they’re interested in a test drive or having a demo with one of our vehicles at any time.”

ABC 2024 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

47

CHASSIS & BODIES

CHALLENGER

ADDRESS:

PHONE:

QLD, NSW: Mark Collins 0431 705 566 QLD, WA, NT: Barry Henderson 0487 054 563 VIC, SA, TAS: Dan Campbell 0425 752 948

176 Hall Street, Spotswood 3015 Victoria WEB:

www.challengerbusandcoach.com.au EMAIL:

sales@challengerbusandcoach.com.au

MAKE: CHALLENGER

MODEL: V10

APPLICATION: SCHOOL/CHARTER/DAY TOUR CHASSIS DIMENSIONS:

BODY DIMENSIONS: Body Length (metres)

10.5

SEATING:

Seating Capacity

Up to 62

5200

Body Width (metres)

2.5

Passenger Capacity

Up to 45

Chassis Front Overhang (mm)

2200

Body Height (metres)

3.6

Fixed Coach

Optional

Chassis Rear Overhang (mm)

3100

Body Floor Height (mm)

1300

Recliners

Optional

Chassis Turning Circle Diameter (m )

19

Body Weight (GVM)

15,500 (Gross)

Metro

Optional

Chassis Length (mm)

10500

Chassis Wheelbase (mm)

ENGINE:

BODY OPTIONS: Wheelchair Lift Access

Optional

CD/PA/Radio

Yes

DVD/TV

Yes

Toilet

Optional Yes

17.3:1 or 18.5:1

Individual Reading Lights

Fuel Capacity (litres)

400

Individual AC Vents

Yes

Oil Capacity (litres)

27 or 20

Reverse Camera

Yes

Emissions

Euro 5 or Euro 6

Additional options

On request

Make / Model

Cummins ISB6.7e5 300 or Cummins D6.7EVIE320

Configuration

6.7L

Power (HP / kW)

300HP/ 224KW or 310HP/231 KW

Torque (Nm)

1045Nm/2000 RPM or 1200Nm /1200-1500

Bore and Stroke (mm)

107/124

Compression Ratio

TRANSMISSION:

Auto Trans Make/ Model/ Description

Allison T350R 6 Speed

Manual Trans Make/ Model/ Description

NA

SUSPENSION: Type – Front

ECAS Independent suspension with 2 airbags

Type – Rear

ECAS 4 air bags

BRAKES:

Service Brakes

Disc

Retarding Brake System

Yes

EBS

Yes

48

ABC 2024 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

SEATING OPTIONS: Seating Make

Fainsa / Styleride

Seating Model

Various

Seatbelts

Yes

AXLES:

Front Make / Model / Desc.

JB independent

Rear Make / Model / Desc.

Meritor

STORAGE: Through Bin

Yes

Internal Luggage Bins

Yes

AIR-CONDITIONING: AC Std

Yes

AC Make

Thermo King/Coach Air

AC Model TK: CS1000

busnews.com.au

ADDRESS:

PHONE:

QLD, NSW: WA: VIC, NSW:

176 Hall Street, Spotswood 3015 Victoria WEB:

www.challengerbusandcoach.com.au

Mark Collins 0431 705 566 Wayne Eather 0432 626 576 Dan Campbell 0425 752 948

EMAIL:

sales@challengerbusandcoach.com.au PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

MAKE: CHALLENGER

MODEL: V12

APPLICATION: SCHOOL/CHARTER/DAY TOUR CHASSIS DIMENSIONS:

BODY DIMENSIONS: Body Length (metres)

12.36

SEATING:

Seating Capacity

Up to 83

6550

Body Width (metres)

2.5

Passenger Capacity

Up to 57

Chassis Front Overhang (mm)

2425

Body Height (metres)

3.6

Fixed Coach

Optional

Chassis Rear Overhang (mm)

3385

Body Floor Height (mm)

1300

Recliners

Optional

Chassis Turning Circle Diameter (m)

22

Body Weight (GVM)

18,000 (Gross)

Metro

Optional

Chassis Length (mm)

12360

Chassis Wheelbase (mm)

ENGINE:

BODY OPTIONS: Wheelchair Lift Access

Optional

CD/PA/Radio

Yes

DVD/TV

Yes

Toilet

Optional Yes

16.6:1

Individual Reading Lights

400L

Individual AC Vents

Yes

Oil Capacity (litres)

24 litres or 27 litres

Reverse Camera

Yes

Emissions

Euro 5 or Euro 6

Additional options

On request

Make / Model

Euro 6 Cummins L9 or Euro 5 Cummins ISL360

Configuration

8.9L

Power (HP / kW)

300-380HP/ 194-283KW or 360HP/268 KW

Torque (Nm)

1166-1696Nm or 1550Nm/1100-1500 RPM

Bore and Stroke (mm)

114/145

Compression Ratio Fuel Capacity (litres)

TRANSMISSION:

Auto Trans Make/ Model/ Description

Allison T390R 6 Speed

Manual Trans Make/ Model/ Description

NA

SUSPENSION: Type – Front

ECAS Independent suspension with 2 airbags

Type – Rear

ECAS 4 air bags

BRAKES:

Service Brakes

Disc

Retarding Brake System

Yes

EBS

Yes

busnews.com.au

SEATING OPTIONS: Seating Make

Fainsa / Styleride

Seating Model

Various

Seatbelts

Yes

AXLES:

Front Make / Model / Desc.

ZF RL 75E

Rear Make / Model / Desc.

ZF A132

STORAGE: Through Bin

Yes

Internal Luggage Bins

Yes

AIR-CONDITIONING: AC Std

Yes

AC Make

Thermo King/Coach Air

AC Model TK: CS1100

ABC 2024 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

49

CHASSIS & BODIES

CHALLENGER

ADDRESS:

PHONE:

QLD, NSW: Mark Collins 0431 705 566 QLD, WA, NT: Barry Henderson 0487 054 563 VIC, SA, TAS: Dan Campbell 0425 752 948

176 Hall Street, Spotswood 3015 Victoria WEB:

www.challengerbusandcoach.com.au EMAIL:

sales@challengerbusandcoach.com.au

CO MI NG S

MAKE: CHALLENGER

OO N

MODEL: CALLIBAR

APPLICATION: SCHOOL/CHARTER/DAY TOUR CHASSIS DIMENSIONS:

BODY DIMENSIONS: Body Length (metres)

7.75

SEATING:

Seating Capacity

29

4100

Body Width (metres)

2.4

Passenger Capacity

28

Chassis Front Overhang (mm)

1350

Body Height (metres)

3.15

Fixed Coach

N/A

Chassis Rear Overhang (mm)

2150

Body Floor Height (mm)

1050

Recliners

N/A

Chassis Turning Circle Diameter (m)

17

Body Weight (GVM)

8,000 (Gross)

Metro

N/A

Chassis Length (mm)

7750

Chassis Wheelbase (mm)

ENGINE:

BODY OPTIONS: Wheelchair Lift Access

Optional

CD/PA/Radio

Yes

DVD/TV

Yes

Toilet

Optional Yes

NA

Individual Reading Lights

3.78

Individual AC Vents

Yes

Oil Capacity (litres)

9.5 - 11.5

Reverse Camera

Yes

Emissions

Euro 5 or Euro 6

Additional options

NA

Make / Model

Euro 5 Cummins ISF3.8S5 168

Configuration

3.8L

Power (HP / kW)

168 HP /125k W

Torque (Nm)

600 Nm / 1300-1700 RPM

Bore and Stroke (mm)

102/115

Compression Ratio Fuel Capacity (litres)

TRANSMISSION:

Auto Trans Make/ Model/ Description

Allison 2200

Manual Trans Make/ Model/ Description

NA

SUSPENSION: Type – Front

Independent air bags 2

Type – Rear

Independent air bags 2

BRAKES:

Service Brakes

Disc

Retarding Brake System

N/A

EBS

Yes

50

ABC 2024 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

SEATING OPTIONS: Seating Make

N/A

Seating Model

N/A

Seatbelts

N/A

AXLES:

Front Make / Model / Desc.

DF

Rear Make / Model / Desc.

DF

STORAGE: Through Bin

N/A

Internal Luggage Bins

N/A

AIR-CONDITIONING: AC Std

Yes

AC Make

Shanghai SZ

AC Model SZ18000

busnews.com.au

Secure your exhibition space today and become a Show partner to unlock the benefits.

Presentation Expressions of Interest OPEN NOW! WWW.BIC.ASN.AU/CONFERENCE

CHASSIS & BODIES

FUSO

REVELLING IN THE ROSA Following its latest updates, the Rosa is excelling as a leading option in its class for the Australian bus and coach market IMAGES SAFARI

A

busy year for Fuso has centred around the unique and popular Rosa model and its latest variation.

Fuso says the Rosa has the most advanced safety features in its class and unmatched flexibility with both a 22-seat and 25-seat variants available.

With buses often operating in high pedestrian traffic areas, safety of buses is paramount and something that Fuso and its parent company, Daimler Truck, take very seriously.

The Rosa’s Advanced Emergency Braking System uses both radar and a camera, while it can perform full emergency braking in the event of a potential collision. This advanced radarbased system can even detect, and begin braking for, moving pedestrians.

Rosa also has a Lane Departure Warning System as standard, as is its Electronic Stability Program, driver and front passenger airbags, height adjustable LED headlights, Hill Start Assist, disc brakes all round and a reversing camera.

There are also four exits and three-point lap sash seatbelts for passengers in the 52

ABC 2024 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

Deluxe model. The latest generation Rosa also features a transom window on the passenger side to further enhance its excellent visibility.

These features are certainly hitting the mark with Rosa customers who put safety at the top of their priority list.

Fuso has a reputation for strong customer support and is backing the recently upgraded Rosa with a generous five year/200,000km warranty, giving owners’ real peace of mind.

It has also introduced longer service intervals, now 15,000km, which help increase the time the bus spends on the road.

The Rosa was recently updated with an efficient 3.0-litre four-cylinder turbo diesel common rail engine with the most power and torque in its class 129kW and 430Nm. This advanced unit, which features a variable geometry turbocharger, is smaller and lighter than the engine it replaces, but is also more powerful. It also meets stringent Euro 6 emission standards, well ahead of Australian regulated standards, which ensures dramatic reductions of nitrogen oxide and particulate emissions.

Fuso also boasts an advanced Duonic Automated Manual Transmission that features six gears. This advanced dual clutch transmission delivers fuel efficiency improvements as well as fast and smooth shifts. It also features a handy creep function for easy low-speed manoeuvring.

A new flat-floor design not only makes it easier for passengers to get in and out

of their seats, but also allows for simpler aftermarket wheelchair lift installations.

Fuso says one of the things Rosa buyers appreciate is how easy it is to drive and part of this is due to its independent front suspension for optimum comfort and handling as well as rack and pinion steering for precise feel. It also has a class leading turning circle of 12.6m (22 seat) and 14.2m (25 seat) which helps it navigate tight spots.

Fuso recently freshened the interior and exterior design of the Rosa, giving it a stylish and modern look due to new design language.

It is available in Standard and Deluxe trim levels to help customers have the ability to choose the Rosa that is right for them.

Above: The Fuso Rosa has become a very popular part of the local market Below: With new features included, the Rosa is better than ever

busnews.com.au

CHASSIS

FUSO

PHONE:

WEB:

1800 033 557

MAKE: FUSO

MODEL: 22-SEAT

SERIES: ME OMNIBUS

fuso.com.au

MAKE: FUSO

MODEL: 25-SEAT

APPLICATION: CHARTER, SCHOOL

APPLICATION: CHARTER, SCHOOL

DIMENSIONS:

DIMENSIONS:

Length (mm)

6990

Length (mm)

7730

Wheelbase (mm)

3995

Wheelbase (mm)

4550

Front Overhang (mm)

940

Front Overhang (mm)

940

Rear Overhang (mm)

2055

Rear Overhang (mm)

2240

Turning Circle Diameter (m)

12.6

Turning Circle Diameter (m)

14.2

ENGINE:

ENGINE:

Make/Model

Fuso/4P10T6 Euro VI

Make/Model

Fuso/4P10T6 Euro VI

Configuration

4 cylinders in line

Configuration

4 cylinders in line

Power (hp/kW)

129kW

Power (hp/kW)

129kW

Torque (Nm)

430

Torque (Nm)

430

Oil Capacity (litres)

6

Oil Capacity (litres)

6

SERIES: ME OMNIBUS

FUEL SOURCE / CAPACITY: Type

Diesel

FUEL SOURCE / CAPACITY: Type

Diesel

Capacity (litres)

100L Fuel & 12L Adblue Tank

Capacity (litres)

100L Fuel & 12L Adblue Tank

TRANSMISSION: Make/Model

AXLES:

Fuso/M038S6 Duonic AMT/Dual Clutch AMT

Type – Front

Fuso Independent

Type – Rear

Fuso R033B

SUSPENSION: Type – Front

Independent coil suspension

Type – Rear

Long tapered leaf springs

BRAKES:

Service Brakes

Ventilated disc brakes, ABS, ASR, ESP

Retarding Brake System

Exhaust Brake

ELECTRONIC SYSTEM:

TRANSMISSION: Make/Model

Fuso/M038S6 Duonic AMT/Dual Clutch AMT

AXLES:

Type – Front

Fuso Independent

Type – Rear

Fuso R033B

SUSPENSION: Type – Front

Independent coil suspension

Type – Rear

Long tapered HD leaf springs

BRAKES:

Service Brakes

Ventilated disc brakes, ABS, ASR, ESP

Retarding Brake System

Exhaust Brake

ELECTRONIC SYSTEM:

Alternator

1 x Bosch 24v/90A

Alternator

1 x Bosch 24v/90A

Starter

Mitsubishi Electric 12V/2kW

Starter

Mitsubishi Electric 12V/2kW

Batteries

2x 12V/70 Ah w Battery Equalizer

Batteries

2x 12V/70 Ah w Battery Equalizer

WHEELS & TYRES:

WHEELS & TYRES:

Type

5 stud alloy

Type

5 stud alloy

Rim Size

5.5 x 16

Rim Size

5.5 x 16

Tyre Size

Tyre size - 205/85R16 (Michellin XJE4)

Tyre Size

Tyre size - 205/85R16 (Michellin XJE4)

ROSA DELUXE Door

Swing Type Electric Automatic with Step Illumination light

Seat

Fabric trim, Fixed high back, Vinyl trim as option

Seat belt

ELR 3 Point Lap Sash (ADR68/00)

busnews.com.au

VARIANTS Door

Swing Type Electric Automatic with Step Illumination light

ROSA DELUXE

ROSA STANDARD

Seat

Fabric trim, Fixed high back, Vinyl trim as option

Vinyl Trim, Fixed low back

Seat belt

ELR 3 Point Lap Sash (ADR68/00)

ELR 3 point Driver and Assistant ELR 2 point for other seats

Bi-Fold Automatic

ABC 2024 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

53

CHASSIS & BODIES

NEXPORT

ANY SIZE

Whether it be groundbreaking electric coaches or stylish min-bus options, Nexport’s 2024 range is set to be better than ever before IMAGES NEXPORT

D

espite being well known for its delivery of low-floor zeroemissions buses and coaches for public transport across Australia, Nexport has plenty more to offer the local market.

Heading into 2024, Nexport has a range of electric coach and mini-bus models that are set to take the Australian industry by storm.

“We have two coach variations and a new 7.5m low floor vehicle that meet a broad range of market requirements,” GoZero Sales Director Industrial Rod Pulbrook told ABC. Nexport’s extended product suite starts with its coach variations. The 12.5m option is Nexport’s major player, with 57 seats as standard and options for a toilet and wheelchair lift. There’s not much that remains standard for this coach, as Nexport has devised a model that is flexible to any operator requirements.

“The 12.5m comes in a variety of seating configurations ranging from 57 seats down to 44 seats with wheelchair lifts and a toilet,” Pulbrook says.

“It can have school bench seats, fully seat-belted seats or recliners installed.

These coach models also vary on battery size depending on the coach’s use.”

The latter feature is a massive point of difference for Nexport, who can supply batteries for coaches to travel up to 450km in a day, or smaller versions to suit daily ranges of around 320kms.

The batteries are installed in the floor, providing stability for drivers who Pulbrook says will notice that it feels very similar to driving a standard diesel bus.

Nexport is in the midst of redesigning its prototype coach to introduce more luggage space.

The 10.5m version is only slightly 54

ABC 2024 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

different to its bigger brother, with the interior look and feel matching it despite having 44 seats as standard.

Both models feature the Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) suite of safety features as standard that includes lane departure warnings, forward detection warnings, reversing cameras and driver fatigue alerts.

Outside of these electric coach models, the new 7.5m bus is ideal for on-demand transport as well as school, tourism and social transport. Coming in a low-floor, Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) compliant version or in a mid-floor model that remains DDA compliant, the 25-to27 seat bus can run for around 240kms on a single charge.

With tyre pressure monitoring and fire suppression as a Nexport standard, alongside the option for a driver screen, these models are proof of Nexport’s versatility.

“We’re also not just about buses,” GoZero Chief Commercial Officer John Featherstone told ABC.

“We’ve got a bus that suits any requirement, be it public or private transport. Through our GoZero solutions, we demystify the electrification journey for operators, supporting them from vehicle selection through to depot assessment, modification and to end-toend project management.”

Above: Nexport’s range of buses and coaches is being seen more and more around Australia Below: Nexport, alongside GoZero, will help operators along the electrification journey

WHAT TO LOOK FORWARD TO IN 2024 In the year ahead, these new models will herald a variety of vehicles coming to market for Nexport. Whether it be these dynamic coaches or the nifty 7.5m option, Nexport is ready to ensure passengers around Australia have a peaceful, quiet and safe journey.

“We have some vehicle designs coming in the next year that we believe will be market leading,” Pulbrook says.

“There’ll be another generation of Nexport vehicles that will be even better than its predecessors. We’ll refresh our range, so stay tuned.” busnews.com.au

CHASSIS & BODIES

NEXPORT

WEB:

PHONE:

www.nexport.com.au

0497 077 212 - Rod Pullbrook 1800 NEXPORT (1800 639 767)

EMAIL:

sales@gozerogroup.com.au

ELECTRIC

ELECTRIC

MAKE: NEXPORT

MODEL: ZE-C125/C105

MAKE: NEXPORT

MODEL: ZE-B75

SERIES: ELECTRIC - ZERO EMISSIONS

SERIES: ELECTRIC - ZERO EMISSIONS

APPLICATION: COACH/CHARTER/SCHOOL

APPLICATION: CITY-ROUTE/SCHOOL

VARIATIONS: 10.5M / 12.5M

VARIATIONS: 7.5M

BODY SPECIFICATIONS:

BODY SPECIFICATIONS:

Frame Material

High quality welded steel monoque

Frame Material

High quality welded steel monoque

Body Material

Glass fiber reinforced plastic F/R wall + top cover, aluminum side wall

Body Material

Steel plate F/R wall + top cover, aluminum side wall

Seating Capacity

10.5m = 44 / 12.5m = 57

Seating Capacity

25

Passenger Capacity

10.5m = 44 / 12.5m = 57

Passenger Capacity

26

No. of Doors

1

No. of Doors

1

SEATING OPTIONS:

SEATING OPTIONS:

Seating Type

Option Fixed Coach or Recliners

Seating Type

Metro

Seating Make/s

Operator Choice

Seating Make/s

Operator Choice

Seating Model/s

Operator Choice

Seating Model/s

Operator Choice

Seatbelts (Yes / No)

Yes

Seatbelts (Yes / No)

Optional

BODY DIMENSIONS:

BODY DIMENSIONS:

Body Length (m)

10.5 - 12.5

Body Length (m)

7.5

Body Width (m)

2.5

Body Width (m)

2.37

Body Height (m)

3.6

Body Height (m)

2.95

Body Floor Height (mm)

1200

Body Floor Height (mm)

620

Body Weight (kg)

18000

Body Weight (kg)

9500

PERFORMANCE:

PERFORMANCE:

Range

10.5m = 300/360km / 12.5m = 340/450km

Range

240km

Speed

100km/hr

Speed

100km/hr

Battery Type

LFP

Battery Type

LFP

Battery Capacity

10.5m = 373/422 kWh 12.5m = 422/507 kWh

Battery Capacity

178 kWh

Charging Type / Rate

CCS2 /150

Charging Type / Rate

CCS2 / 100

AIR-CONDITIONING: Air-Conditioning Standard

Yes

Air-Conditioning Make/s

ThermoKing, Coachair, Valeo, Songz

BODY OPTIONS:

AIR-CONDITIONING: Air-Conditioning Standard

Yes

Air-Conditioning Make/s

ThermoKing, Coachair, Valeo, Songz

BODY OPTIONS:

Wheelchair lift/access

Optional

Wheelchair lift/access

Optional

CD/PA/Radio

Yes

CD/PA/Radio

Optional

DVD/TV

Yes

DVD/TV

No

Toilet

Optional

Toilet

No

Individual reading lights

Yes

Individual reading lights

No

Individual AC vents

Yes

Individual AC vents

No

Reverse camera

Yes

Reverse camera

Other (please specify)

STORAGE:

passive and active safety system, driver fatigue detector

Other (please specify)

STORAGE:

Yes passive and active safety system, driver fatigue detector

Side Bin

Yes

Side Bin

No

Through Bin

Yes

Through Bin

No

Internal Luggage Bins

Yes

Internal Luggage Bins

No

busnews.com.au

ABC 2024 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

55

CHASSIS & BODIES

SCANIA

TECHNOLOGICAL MILESTONE

The recent delivery of Scania’s first Australian fully electric route bus is set to kickstart another eventful year for the major bus and coach brand IMAGES SCANIA

A

fter another successful year for international bus and coach powerhouse Scania, there’s plenty on the company’s collective plate heading into 2024.

It’ll bring in the new year having recently reached a milestone in its technological capabilities following the release of its first-ever fully electric route bus in Australia.

Delivered to South Australia’s DIT, it left Scania Bus and Power Solutions director of sales Julian Gurney immensely proud.

“This marks a really significant milestone for us as a supplier of premium grade public transport solutions to the Australian bus operator market,” Gurney told ABC. “We anticipate a growing demand for 100 per cent battery-powered buses, 56

ABC 2024 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

and we stand ready to deliver across Australia.”

The Scania battery electric bus has the range to deliver a fully day’s service around Adelaide for DIT, with power and performance capabilities that eclipse that of Scania’s diesel engine bus models.

As a quiet and smooth vehicle that provides passengers with a more pleasant transport experience, Scania has supported the new-age vehicle with its own service network and significant parts holding to give customers an unassailable advantage.

“Not only do we have highly trained technicians across the country, but they have undergone battery electric vehicle training to ensure a high level of uptime for the new technology,” Gurney says.

“In addition, our very well-established replacement parts supply systems will ensure there are no bottlenecks delaying the return to service of our BEV buses, just as with our diesel or electric-hybrid buses.”

As a known and trusted brand that has served Australian operators from the largest route bus fleets down to the smallest family-owned outfits over the past 40 years, Scania is ready to continue meeting the needs of the local market.

Its parent company has invested hundreds of millions of dollars into alternative fuel solutions while making headway with battery electric buses, having just recently unveiled a significant step forward in Europe that will result in greater range and in-service convenience when it reaches busnews.com.au

Australian shores.

“In the meantime, the Scania electrichybrid bus platform has been available locally for four years, making inroads within the route bus market due to its ability to drive in silent mode when approaching and departing bus stops,” Gurney says.

“Its fuel efficiency levels also deliver savings of around 25 per cent on average to operators without needing to invest in charging infrastructure, with the electrichybrid technology being one of Scania’s more popular powertrain options when it comes to transitioning the bus and coach industry towards cleaner operations.”

Scania has also increased the number of coaches arriving in Australia that run on B100 biodiesel, once again removing the need for significant infrastructure investments from local operators.

Gurney says Scania considers the chance to run engines on up to B100 to be a major opportunity for operators to take a huge step forward in reducing CO2 emissions.

“Biodiesel makes sense on many levels – there’s barely a performance or operational deficit to mineral diesel, plus biodiesel is manufactured in Australia, enhancing our fuel self-sufficiency and security profile,” Gurney says.

“Biodiesel allows operators to maintain an identical level of utilisation for their vehicles, and if biodiesel fuel is not available for refuelling at a destination, they can simply fill up with mineral diesel.”

All of these technology updates follow Scania’s adoption of its New Bus Generation chassis and powertrain in 2022. The latest model was introduced with a comprehensive array of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) that are now being specified by operators across the country.

Gurney says these systems facilitate a safer working environment for drivers while also enhancing the safety of patrons. Alongside Scania’s vulnerable road user safety systems that keep an eye open for cyclists and pedestrians, Scania’s safety features are quickly becoming very popular among Australian bus and coach operators.

The final significant change that has come with the Scania New Bus Generation and has made the brand’s vehicles an attractive option moving forward is the introduction of a completely new and easy to use electropneumatic park brake.

Coming with multiple built-in safety features, such as removing the possibility of bus roll-away, Gurney says this addition signals good news for all bus operators and drivers around the country.

“We’ll continue our safety innovation journey at Scania, adding safety systems as busnews.com.au

WHAT TO LOOK FORWARD TO IN 2024

they become available from the factory,” Gurney says.

“Our goal is to ensure that all drivers, passengers and road users are as well protected as possible, using all the technology at our disposal.”

Opposite top: Scania continues to innovate for Australian operators Top: Driver comfort is a major focus for the international brand Above: Scania will continue welcoming in alternative fuel vehicles Below: Scania remains committed to safety

In 2024, Scania will continue rolling out its 100 per cent battery electric buses for customers while still fulfilling biodiesel fuelled vehicle orders.

The Scania New Bus Generation chassis, which comes with a new generation dashboard, will also find its stride as more orders continue to come across Australia.

Gurney says further variations on the New Bus Generation chassis will be made available in Australia, filling in some of the niches that the previous generation chassis provided.

During 2024, further supplies of the fully imported 370 hp Scania Touring will continue to arrive, as well as versions powered by 360 hp motors.

These vehicles, which are Scania from bumper to bumper, will be offered with a choice of Scania Opticruise manual automated gear changing or a full fluid ZF automatic sixspeed.

ABC 2024 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

57

CHASSIS & BODIES

SCANIA

ADDRESS:

WEB:

Scania Australia 212-216 Northbourne Road, Campbellfield, VIC, 3061

www.scania.com.au

PHONE:

03 9217 3300

MAKE: SCANIA

MODEL: K370C/K360C EURO 6

MAKE: SCANIA

MODEL: K320H

SERIES: B4X2NB TOURING

SERIES: B4X2 NI

APPLICATION: CHARTER – LONG DISTANCE, SCHOOL

APPLICATION: SCHOOL/CHARTER/LONG DISTANCE HYBRID

VEHICLE DIMENSIONS: Chassis Length (m)

12.3

Chassis Wheelbase (mm)

5850

Chassis Front Overhang (mm)

2800

Chassis Rear Overhang (mm)

3350

Chassis Turning Circle Diameter (m)

25

ENGINE:

BODY OPTIONS: Wheelchair Lift Access

Optional

CD/PA/Radio

Yes

DVD/TV

Optional

Toilet

Optional

Individual Reading Lights

Yes

Individual AC Vents

Yes

CHASSIS DIMENSIONS: Chassis Length (m)

9 (transport)

Chassis Wheelbase (mm)

3000 (transport)

Chassis Front Overhang (mm)

2500 - 2700

Chassis Rear Overhang (mm)

3280

Chassis Turning Circle Diameter (m)

25

ENGINE:

Make / Model

Scania DC 13 162/ DC 09 141

Make / Model

Scania DC 09 140

Configuration

6 cylinder / 5 cylinder

Reverse Camera

Yes

Configuration

5 cylinder

Power (HP / kW)

370/272 @ 1900 (SCR only) / 360/262 @ 1900 (SCR only)

Other (please specify)

NS

Power (HP / kW)

320/235 @ 1900 (SCR only)

Torque (Nm)

1600 @ 1050-1400 + E-Machine @ 1050

Oil Capacity (litres)

31

Torque (Nm)z Oil Capacity (litres)

FUEL SYSTEM:

1900 @ 900-1340 / 1700 @ 1050-1475 43 / 31

SEATING:

Seating Capacity

Up to 57 seated

Passenger Capacity

57

Fixed Coach

NS

Type

Diesel, HVO / Diesel, HVO, Biodiesel

Recliners

NS

Capacity (litres)

460 (usable volume)

Metro

NS

TRANSMISSION: Make / Model

AXLES:

SEATING OPTIONS: Scania 12-speed gearbox with Opticruise and Retarder; ZF Ecolife 2 6-speed automatic gearbox

Scania AM660 I-Beam

Type - Rear

Scania AD400

BRAKES:

Service Brakes

Disc brakes with EBS, ABS & ADAS

Retarding Brake System

Scania retarder / ZF retarder

EBS

Yes

BODY DIMENSIONS:

Type

Diesel, HVO, Biodiesel

Capacity (litres)

Body Builder

TRANSMISSION: Make / Model

AXLES:

E–GRS895 12 speed OPTICRUISE + Electric machine

Seating Make

Customer choice

Seating Model

NS

Type - Front

Scania AMI 460 Independant

Fitted

Type - Rear

Scania AD400

Seatbelts

SUSPENSION:

STORAGE:

Type - Front

FUEL SYSTEM:

External

9 m3 thru bins, manual operated top-hinged doors

Internal

Open overhead luggage racks

AIR-CONDITIONING:

Type - Front

I-Beam - 2 x airbags

Type - Rear

4 x airbags

BRAKES:

Service Brakes

Disc, ABS, ADAS

Retarding Brake System

E-machine Yes

Air-Conditioning Standard

Yes

EBS

Air-Conditioning Make

Konvecta

CLUTCH:

Air-Conditioning Model SL800

Model/Type

K432 66

Diameter (mm)

430mm SACHS

Body Length (m)

12.3

Control

Body Width (m)

2.5

Body Height (m)

3.8

ELECTRONIC SYSTEM: Alternator

Without

Body Floor Height (mm) 1517

Starter

5 Hp

Body Weight (kg)

Batteries

2 x 12 v

NS

WHEELS & TYRES:

58

ABC 2024 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

Type

Durabright polished alloy

Rim Size

8.25 x 22.5

busnews.com.au

ADDRESS:

WEB:

Scania Australia 212-216 Northbourne Road, Campbellfield, VIC, 3061

www.scania.com.au

PHONE:

03 9217 3300

MAKE: SCANIA

MODEL: K320H

MAKE: SCANIA

MODEL: K320C

SERIES: B4X2LB

SERIES: B4X2LB

APPLICATION: CITY – ROUTE HYBRID

APPLICATION: CITY – ROUTE

CHASSIS DIMENSIONS:

CHASSIS DIMENSIONS:

Chassis Length (m)

9 (transport)

Chassis Length (m)

9 (transport)

Chassis Wheelbase (mm)

3000 (transport)

Chassis Wheelbase (mm)

3000 (transport)

Chassis Front Overhang (mm)

2500 - 2700

Chassis Front Overhang (mm)

2500 - 2700

Chassis Rear Overhang (mm)

3280

Chassis Rear Overhang (mm)

3280

Chassis Turning Circle Diameter (m) 25

Chassis Turning Circle Diameter (m) 25

ENGINE:

ENGINE:

Make / Model

Scania DC 09 140

Make / Model

Scania DC 09 140

Configuration

5 cylinder

Configuration

5 cylinder

Power (HP / kW)

9 lt engine: 320/235 @1900 (SCR only) / Electric motor: 130kW

Power (HP / kW)

9 lt engine: 320/235 @1900 (SCR only) / Electric motor: 130kW

Torque (Nm)

1600 @ 1050-1400 + E-Machine @ 1050

Torque (Nm)

1600 @ 1050-1400

Oil Capacity (litres)

31

Oil Capacity (litres)

31

FUEL SYSTEM: Type

Diesel, HVO, Biodiesel

Capacity (litres)

Body Builder

TRANSMISSION: Make / Model

AXLES:

E–GRS895 12 speed OPTICRUISE + Electric machine

Type - Front

Scania AM 580 I-Beam

Type - Rear

Scania AD400

SUSPENSION: Type - Front

I-Beam - 2 x airbags

Type - Rear

4 x airbags

BRAKES:

FUEL SYSTEM: Type

Diesel, HVO, Biodiesel

Capacity (litres)

Body Builder

TRANSMISSION: Make / Model

ZF Ecolife 2 6-speed automatic gearbox

AXLES:

Type - Front

Scania AM 580 I-Beam

Type - Rear

Scania AD400

SUSPENSION: Type - Front

I-Beam - 2 x airbags

Type - Rear

4 x airbags

BRAKES:

Service Brakes

Disc, ABS, ADAS

Service Brakes

Disc, ABS, ADAS

Retarding Brake System

Yes

Retarding Brake System

Yes

EBS

Yes

EBS

Yes

CLUTCH:

CLUTCH:

Model/Type

K432/PULL

Model/Type

NA

Diameter (mm)

430mm

Diameter (mm)

NA

Control

SACHS

Control

NA

ELECTRONIC SYSTEM: Alternator

Hybrid Inverter

Starter Batteries

WHEELS & TYRES:

Alternator

2x 150 amp

5 Hp

Starter

5 Hp

4 x 12 volt

Batteries

2x 12 volt 230Ah

Type

Steel Rims / Polished Alloy Option

Rim Size

8.25 x 22.5

busnews.com.au

ELECTRONIC SYSTEM:

WHEELS & TYRES: Type

Steel Rims / Polished Alloy Option

Rim Size

8.25 x 22.5

ABC 2024 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

59

CHASSIS & BODIES

SCANIA

ADDRESS:

WEB:

Scania Australia 212-216 Northbourne Road, Campbellfield, VIC, 3061

www.scania.com.au

PHONE:

03 9217 3300

MAKE: SCANIA

MODEL: K360C

MAKE: SCANIA

MODEL: K320C / K360C / K370C

SERIES: A6X2/2LB

SERIES: B4X2NB

APPLICATION: CITY – ROUTE

APPLICATION: CHARTER – LONG DISTANCE, SCHOOL

CHASSIS DIMENSIONS:

CHASSIS DIMENSIONS:

Chassis Length (m)

9 (transport)

Chassis Length (m)

9 (transport)

Chassis Wheelbase (mm)

3000 (transport)

Chassis Wheelbase (mm)

3000 (transport)

Chassis Front Overhang (mm)

2500

Chassis Front Overhang (mm)

2500 - 2700 / 2500 - 2700 / 075 - 2500

Chassis Rear Overhang (mm)

3080

Chassis Rear Overhang (mm)

3280

Chassis Turning Circle Diameter (m)

25

Chassis Turning Circle Diameter (m)

25

ENGINE:

ENGINE:

Make / Model

Scania DC 09 141

Make / Model

Scania DC 09 140 / Scania DC 09 141 / Scania DC 13 162

Configuration

5 cylinder

Configuration

5 cylinder / 5 cylinder / 6 cylinder

Power (HP / kW)

360/262 @ 1900 (SCR only)

Power (HP / kW)

Torque (Nm)

1700 @ 1050-1475

320/235 @ 1900 (SCR only) / 360/262 @ 1900 (SCR only) / 370/272 @ 1900 (SCR only)

Oil Capacity (litres)

31

Torque (Nm)

1600 @ 1050-1400 / 1700 @ 1050-1475 / 1900 @ 900-1340

Oil Capacity (litres)

31 / 31 / 43

FUEL SYSTEM: Type

Diesel, HVO, Biodiesel

Capacity (litres)

Body Builder

TRANSMISSION: Make / Model

AXLES:

Diesel, HVO, Biodiesel / Diesel, HVO, Biodiesel / Diesel, HVO

Capacity (litres)

275 (usable volume) / 275 (usable volume) / 275 - 460 (usable volume)

TRANSMISSION: Scania AM 580 I-Beam

Type - Rear

Scania AD400

Type - Front

I-Beam - 2 x airbags

Type - Rear

4 + 4 x airbags

BRAKES:

Type

ZF Ecolife 2 6-speed automatic gearbox

Type - Front

SUSPENSION:

FUEL SYSTEM:

Service Brakes

Disc, ABS, ADAS

Retarding Brake System

Yes

EBS

Yes

Make / Model

AXLES:

Scania 12-speed gearbox with Opticruise and Retarder; ZF Ecolife 2 6-speed automatic gearbox

Type - Front

Scania AM660 I-Beam

Type - Rear

Scania AD400

SUSPENSION: Type - Front

I-Beam - 2 x airbags

Type - Rear

4 x airbags

BRAKES:

Service Brakes

Disc, ABS, ADAS

Model/Type

NA

Retarding Brake System

Yes

Diameter (mm)

NA

EBS

Yes

Control

NA

CLUTCH:

ELECTRONIC SYSTEM: Alternator

2x 150 amp

2x 150 amp

Starter

5 Hp

Starter

5 Hp

Batteries

2x 12 volt 230Ah

Batteries

2x 12 volt 230Ah

WHEELS & TYRES:

ELECTRONIC SYSTEM: Alternator

WHEELS & TYRES: Type

Polished Alloy Rim

Rim Size

8.25 x 22.5

60

ABC 2024 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

Type

Polished Alloy Rim

Rim Size

8.25 x 22.5

busnews.com.au

ADDRESS:

WEB:

Scania Australia 212-216 Northbourne Road, Campbellfield, VIC, 3061

www.scania.com.au

PHONE:

03 9217 3300

ELECTRIC

MAKE: SCANIA

MODEL: K410C / K450C / K500C

MAKE: SCANIA

MODEL: C250E

SERIES: B6X2*4NI

SERIES: B4X2EI

APPLICATION: LONG DISTANCE

APPLICATION: CITY – ROUTE ELECTRIC

CHASSIS DIMENSIONS:

CHASSIS DIMENSIONS:

Chassis Length (m)

10 (transport)

Chassis Length (m)

9 (transport)

Chassis Wheelbase (mm)

3000 (transport)

Chassis Wheelbase (mm)

3000 (transport)

Chassis Front Overhang (mm)

2075 - 2500

Chassis Front Overhang (mm)

2500 - 2700

Chassis Rear Overhang (mm)

4385

Chassis Rear Overhang (mm)

3350

Chassis Turning Circle Diameter (m)

25

Chassis Turning Circle Diameter (m)

25

ENGINE:

ENGINE:

Make / Model

Scania DC 13 163 / Scania DC 13 164 / Scania DC 13 165

Make / Model

Scania electric motor

Configuration

6 cylinder

Configuration

NA

Power (HP / kW)

410/302 @ 1800 (SCR only) / 450/331 @ 1800 (SCR only) / 500/368 @ 1800 (SCR + EGR)

Power (HP / kW)

300kW (peak) 250kW (continuous)

Torque (Nm)

2100Nm

Oil Capacity (litres)

NA

Torque (Nm)

2150 @ 900 - 1340 / 2350 @ 900 - 1340 / 2550 @ 925 - 1340

Oil Capacity (litres)

43

FUEL SYSTEM:

FUEL SYSTEM:

Type

Diesel, HVO, Biodiesel

Capacity (litres)

Body Builder

TRANSMISSION: Make / Model

AXLES:

Scania 12-speed gearbox with Opticruise and Retarder

Type - Rear

Scania AD400 + AM661

Type - Rear

BRAKES:

Independent - 2 x airbags 6 x airbags

Scania GE21S21 2-speed to optimise energy consumption

Type - Front

Scania AM 580 I-Beam

Type - Rear

Scania AD400

Type - Front

I-Beam - 2 x airbags

Type - Rear

4 x airbags

BRAKES: Disc, ABS, ADAS

Retarding Brake System

Yes

CLUTCH:

Make / Model

SUSPENSION:

Service Brakes EBS

330kWh

AXLES: Scania AMI580 Independent

Type - Front

ELECTRIC

Battery Capacity (kWh)

TRANSMISSION:

Type - Front

SUSPENSION:

Type

Yes

Service Brakes

Disc, ABS, ADAS

Retarding Brake System

Yes

EBS

Yes

CLUTCH:

Model/Type

K432/Pull

Model/Type

NA

Diameter (mm)

430mm

Diameter (mm)

NA

Sachs

Control

NA

Control

ELECTRONIC SYSTEM:

ELECTRONIC SYSTEM:

Alternator

2x 150 amp

Alternator

NA

Starter

5 Hp

Starter

NA

2x 12 volt 230Ah

Batteries

2x 12 volt 230Ah

Batteries

WHEELS & TYRES: Type

Rim Size busnews.com.au

WHEELS & TYRES: Polished Alloy Rim

Type

Polished Alloy Rim

8.25 x 22.5

Rim Size

8.25 x 22.5

ABC 2024 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

61

CHASSIS & BODIES

SCANIA

ADDRESS:

WEB:

Scania Australia 212-216 Northbourne Road, Campbellfield, VIC, 3061

www.scania.com.au

PHONE:

03 9217 3300

MAKE: SCANIA

MODEL: K410C

MAKE: SCANIA

MODEL: K360C / K370C

SERIES: B6X2NB

SERIES: B4X2NI

APPLICATION: LONG DISTANCE

APPLICATION: CHARTER – LONG DISTANCE

CHASSIS DIMENSIONS:

CHASSIS DIMENSIONS:

Chassis Length (m)

10 (transport)

Chassis Length (m)

9 (transport)

Chassis Wheelbase (mm)

3000 (transport)

Chassis Wheelbase (mm)

3000 (transport)

Chassis Front Overhang (mm)

2075 - 2500

Chassis Front Overhang (mm)

2075 - 2500

Chassis Rear Overhang (mm)

3990

Chassis Rear Overhang (mm)

3280

Chassis Turning Circle Diameter (m)

25

Chassis Turning Circle Diameter (m)

25

ENGINE:

ENGINE:

Make / Model

Scania DC 13 163

Make / Model

Scania DC 09 141 / Scania DC 13 162

Configuration

6 cylinder

Configuration

5 cylinder / 6 cylinder

Power (HP / kW)

410/302 @ 1800 (SCR only)

Power (HP / kW)

360/262 @ 1900 (SCR only) / 370/272 @ 1900 (SCR only)

Torque (Nm)

2150 @ 900 - 1340

Torque (Nm)

1700 @ 1050-1475 / 1900 @ 900-1340

Oil Capacity (litres)

43

Oil Capacity (litres)

31 / 43

FUEL SYSTEM: Type

Diesel, HVO, Biodiesel

Capacity (litres)

Body Builder

TRANSMISSION: Make / Model

AXLES:

Scania 12-speed gearbox with Opticruise and Retarder

Type - Front

Scania AM660 I-Beam

Type - Rear

Scania AD400 + A450

SUSPENSION: Type - Front

I-Beam - 2 x airbags

Type - Rear

6 x airbags

BRAKES:

Service Brakes

Disc, ABS, ADAS

Retarding Brake System

Yes

EBS

Yes

ELECTRONIC SYSTEM: Alternator

2x 150 amp

Starter

5 Hp

Batteries

2x 12 volt 230Ah

WHEELS & TYRES: Type

Polished Alloy Rim

Rim Size

8.25 x 22.5

62

ABC 2024 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

FUEL SYSTEM: Type

Diesel, HVO, Biodiesel / Diesel, HVO

Capacity (litres)

Body Builder

TRANSMISSION: Make / Model

AXLES:

Scania 12-speed gearbox with Opticruise and Retarder; ZF Ecolife 2 6-speed automatic gearbox

Type - Front

Scania AMI580 Independent

Type - Rear

Scania AD400

SUSPENSION: Type - Front

Independent - 2 x airbags

Type - Rear

6 x airbags

BRAKES:

Service Brakes

Disc, ABS, ADAS

Retarding Brake System

Yes

EBS

Yes

ELECTRONIC SYSTEM: Alternator

2x 150 amp

Starter

5 Hp

Batteries

2x 12 volt 230Ah

WHEELS & TYRES: Type

Polished Alloy Rim

Rim Size

8.25 x 22.5

busnews.com.au

CHASSIS & BODIES

VDI / YUTONG

NEW LOOK LINE-UP

VDI Australia and Yutong took massive strides in the Australian market in 2023, with more in store as this amazing partnership completes further new releases and events in the coming year IMAGES YUTONG

F

or the likes of Yutong and its Australian distributor VDI, 2023 has been another year of growth.

Globally, Yutong unveiled its latest Yutong Electric Architecture (YEA) system technology for its new wave of zero-emissions buses in Zhengzhou, China while also taking home two major awards at the Busworld show in Brussels, Belgium.

In Australia, VDI continued its local assembly program to fulfil its 90-unit electric bus order forTransport Canberra, trialled the electric E12 model in the snow and unveiled its new C12E electric model in Australia.

In between this, it opened a new VDI branch in Perth, passed its C12 models through the Australian Design Rule 64

ABC 2024 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

(ADR) approval phase and took some of its major operator customers to the global Yutong factory in Zhengzhou.

This whirlwind would usually be enough for a break heading into the next year. For VDI and Yutong, who also made key appointments including new national sales and marketing manager Sara Clark, it’ll be gearing up for an even busier year in 2024.

“2024 will be yet another big year for the brand,” Clark told ABC. “Whether it be the unveiling of more new models or an exciting array of events, VDI and Yutong are set for another productive 12 months.”

The year will kick off with a couple of much anticipated releases in the opening months, with the D7E and

C10 models to be officially launched in Australia. The D7 has been welcomed locally, with the electrified version of this popular model set to gain plenty of interest from operators wanting a sustainable smaller alternative.

The introduction of the D7E will mean that VDI’s extensive fleet of Yutong vehicles in Australia will, for the first time, be available in both Euro 6 diesel and battery electric variants. With a range of seating capacities available from 23 to 40 passengers, the versatile model is another ideal school, tour or charter vehicle.

On top of this, the C10 model is also expected to hit Australian roads in early 2024. The 10m long diesel Euro 6 model can take up to 43 passengers and is the busnews.com.au

WHAT TO LOOK FORWARD TO IN 2024 Outside of the initial releases of the D7E and C10 models, VDI still has plenty on its plate for the year.

VDI is already planning another tour with local customers to the Yutong factory in China in 2024 as it enhances its focus on technical training and battery electric bus industry development.

There will also be more new vehicles slated to be released at the National Bus & Coach Show in Brisbane to be held in mid-

perfect smaller version of the popular Yutong C12 model that has already made waves in the school, charter, tour and mining sectors. Clark says it is the ideal replacement for the older D9 variant.

“Our product team is working towards having the entire Yutong bus model range available in both Euro 6 and battery electric options, which is a

massive boost for the VDI team,” Clark says.

Outside of these new releases, there’s a range of emerging electric models that will give VDI plenty to spruik in 2024. The C12E full electric model is also a popular vehicle for the school, charter, tour and mining areas, while Clark says the E12 full electric city bus is efficient and incredibly safe for metro passengers around Australia.

Despite having its electrified version arrive in Australia, the D7 will also continue to be delivered onto Australian roads to keep operators satisfied with the Yutong range of vehicles.

Behind all these innovative models is Yutong’s safety commitment. While its technology has increased remarkably in Australia through the latest influx of electric vehicles, VDI’s focus on safety features has also risen to the fore on these new models.

“We continue to equip our vehicles with enhanced safety features that are class leading and standard across the range,” Clark says.

“This includes our Yutong Electric Safety Standard system, or YESS, that

September, with the excitement to build up over the course of another jam-packed year for VDI and Yutong in Australia.

“From the new models on the way to the tours and events we have planned, there’s plenty that we’ll be doing in 2024,” Clark says.

“When these new vehicles join our existing range, expect to see a fleet that has enhanced safety features and the latest sustainable technology.”

provides the battery safety and fire mitigation required to minimise any risks of utilising a zero-emissions bus.”

To meet this increased demand, VDI has begun its own project to heighten its local content capabilities. In Eagle Farm, Brisbane, VDI has officially opened a new purpose-built facility to complete the local assembly of certain Yutong vehicles.

This includes the E12 low floor city bus, with the facility supporting the expansion of VDI’s Brisbane vehicle manufacturing program while also creating a centre of excellence for VDI’s technical training and local product support.

“As electric buses gain momentum in Australia, VDI can respond to it locally by enhancing safety and providing reliable products,” Clark says.

“VDI is also focused on continuous improvements to our social procurement policies, including our local and First Nations engagement plans.”

All of this leaves Clark and the VDI team with a lot to get excited about in the coming year. While the team continues to build its local presence and fulfil major orders for Yutong buses in Australia, they won’t stop spreading the innovations that VDI and Yutong can bring for local operators.

“The key feature of this model range we have is that everything is high quality and reliable,” Clark says.

“The growth that we’ve seen is incredible and it’s happening rapidly, so it’ll be another exciting and big year for us.”

Above: The D7E will be a massive moment in 2024 for VDI and Yutong Left: VDI and Yutong are growing their collective presence in Australia busnews.com.au

ABC 2024 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

65

CHASSIS & BODIES

VDI / YUTONG

ADDRESS:

WEB:

www.vdiaustralia.com.au

231 Kurrajong Rd, Prestons NSW 2170

EMAIL:

sales@vdiaustralia.com.au

PHONE:

1800 988 664

ELECTRIC

ELECTRIC

MAKE: YUTONG

MODEL: D7E FULL ELECTRIC

MAKE: YUTONG

APPLICATION: SCHOOL/CHARTER/TOUR/MINING CHASSIS DIMENSIONS: Chassis Length (m)

7.73

Chassis Wheelbase (mm)

4150

Chassis Front Overhang (mm)

1250

Chassis Rear Overhang (mm)

2130

Chassis Turning Circle Diameter (metres)

≤ 18

ENGINE:

Make / Model

Yutong TZ330XSYTB56

Configuration

Full Electric

Power (HP / kW)

120kW

Torque (Nm)

1200

Bore and Stroke

Nil

Compression Ratio

Nil

Fuel Capacity (litres)

Nil

Oil Capacity (litres)

Nil

Emissions

ZERO

TRANSMISSION:

APPLICATION: SCHOOL/CHARTER/TOUR/MINING

BODY OPTIONS:

CHASSIS DIMENSIONS:

Wheelchair Lift Access

Optional

CD/PA/Radio

Standard

DVD/TV Toilet

Standard N/A

SEATING:

Power (HP / kW)

215kW

Torque (Nm)

1260

Bore and Stroke

Nil

Compression Ratio

Nil 350kWh

23 / 40

Oil Capacity (litres)

Nil

Emissions

ZERO

Fixed Coach

Standard Fixed ADR68

Yutong

Type – Rear

Parabolic Leaf Spring

Seating Model

YTHO5

Seatbelts

Standard

AXLES:

Disc, ABS, ASR, ESC, AEBS

Retarding Brake System

Regeneration Braking

Front Make / Model / Desc.

Yutong 4.5T Disc Brake

EBS

Standard

Rear Make / Model / Desc.

Yutong 9.5T Drum Brake

STORAGE: Side Bins

Rear

Thru Bins

No

Internal Luggage Bins

No

AIR-CONDITIONING: Air-Conditioning Standard

Heat/Cool

Air-Conditioning Make

Cling

Air-Conditioning Model LFDR-04 ABC 2024 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

TRANSMISSION: Automatic Trans

N/A

Manual Trans

N/A

SUSPENSION: Type – Front

Two Spring Electronically Controlled Air Suspension

Type – Rear

Four Spring Electronically Controlled Air Suspension

BRAKES:

Service Brakes

66

Full Electric

Passenger Capacity

Seating Make

N/A

Configuration

Fuel Capacity (litres)

Parabolic Leaf Spring

Body Weight (kg)

Yutong - TYZ400XSYTB49

24 / 41

Type – Front

Body Floor Height (mm) 710

Make / Model

Seating Capacity

SEATING OPTIONS:

3.2

≤ 23

Other

N/A

Body Height (m)

3320

360° Driver Warning Camera System, YESS Electric Vehicle Safety, ADAS, AVAS

Metro

2.41

Chassis Rear Overhang (mm)

Standard

N/A

Body Width (m)

2600

Reverse Camera

Manual Trans

7.73

Chassis Front Overhang (mm)

ENGINE:

Optional

Body Length (m)

6450

Standard

Recliners

BODY DIMENSIONS:

Chassis Wheelbase (mm)

Standard

N/A

BRAKES:

12.37

Individual AC Vents

Automatic Trans

SUSPENSION:

Chassis Length (m)

Chassis Turning Circle Diameter (metres)

Individual Reading Lights

MODEL: C12E FULL ELECTRIC

BODY OPTIONS: Wheelchair Lift Access

Optional

CD/PA/Radio

Standard

DVD/TV

Standard

Toilet

Optional

Individual Reading Lights

Standard

Individual AC Vents

Standard

Reverse Camera

Standard

Other

AVAS Pedestrian Warning System, YESS Electric Vehicle Safety, ADAS

SEATING:

Seating Capacity

54 / 58

Passenger Capacity

53 / 57

Fixed Coach

Standard Fixed ADR68

Recliners

Optional

Metro

N/A

SEATING OPTIONS: Seating Make

Yutong

Seating Model

YTHO5

Seatbelts

Standard

AXLES:

Service Brakes

Disc, ABS, ASR, ESC

Front Make / Model / Desc.

Yutong 7T Disc Brake

Retarding Brake System

Regeneration Braking

Rear Make / Model / Desc.

Yutong 13T Disc Brake

EBS

Standard

BODY DIMENSIONS:

STORAGE: Side Bins

No

Body Length (m)

12.37

Thru Bins

Yes

Body Width (m)

2.5

Internal Luggage Bins

No

Body Height (m)

3.61

AIR-CONDITIONING:

Body Floor Height (mm) 1295 Body Weight (kg)

N/A

Air-Conditioning Standard

Heat/Cool

Air-Conditioning Make

Cling

Air-Conditioning Model EZD-07-J1

busnews.com.au

ADDRESS:

WEB:

www.vdiaustralia.com.au

231 Kurrajong Rd, Prestons NSW 2170

EMAIL:

sales@vdiaustralia.com.au

PHONE:

1800 988 664

ELECTRIC

MAKE: YUTONG

MODEL: E12 FULL ELECTRIC

MAKE: YUTONG

APPLICATION: CITY ROUTE CHASSIS DIMENSIONS: Chassis Length (m)

12.47

Chassis Wheelbase (mm)

6300

Chassis Front Overhang (mm)

2740

Chassis Rear Overhang (mm)

3430

Chassis Turning Circle Diameter (metres)

≤ 23

ENGINE:

Make / Model

Yutong - TYZ330XSY-B45

Configuration

Full Electric

Power (HP / kW)

150kW / 215kW

Torque (Nm)

3200

Bore and Stroke

Nil

Compression Ratio

Nil

Fuel Capacity (litres)

422kwh / 350kwh

Oil Capacity (litres)

Nil

Emissions

ZERO

TRANSMISSION: Automatic Trans

N/A

Manual Trans

N/A

SUSPENSION:

APPLICATION: SCHOOL/CHARTER/TOUR/MINING CHASSIS DIMENSIONS:

BODY OPTIONS: Wheelchair Lift Access

Standard

CD/PA/Radio

Standard

DVD/TV Toilet

Standard N/A

4150

Chassis Front Overhang (mm)

1250

Chassis Rear Overhang (mm)

2130 ≤ 18

N/A

ENGINE:

Reverse Camera

Standard

Other

AVAS Pedestrian Warning System, YESS Electric Vehicle Safety, ADAS

SEATING:

Seating Capacity

45 / 45

Passenger Capacity

60 / 65

Fixed Coach

N/A

Recliners

N/A

Metro

Metro

SEATING OPTIONS:

Yutong / Styleride / McConnell

Seating Model

8ma / Protean / Metro

Type – Rear

Four Spring Electronically Controlled Air Suspension

Seatbelts

Non-Seat Belted

AXLES:

Service Brakes

Disc, ABS, ASR, ESC

Front Make / Model / Desc.

Retarding Brake System

Regeneration Braking

Rear Make / Model / Desc.

EBS

Standard

STORAGE:

ZF/ZFRL85A/NS Disc Brake ZF/ZFAV132T/NS Disc Brake

BODY DIMENSIONS:

Side Bins

No

Body Length (m)

12.47

Thru Bins

No

Body Width (m)

2.5

Internal Luggage Bins

No

Body Height (m)

3.45

AIR-CONDITIONING:

N/A

Chassis Wheelbase (mm)

N/A

Two Spring Electronically Controlled Air Suspension

Body Weight (kg)

7.73

Individual AC Vents

Seating Make

Body Floor Height (mm) 310

Chassis Length (m)

Chassis Turning Circle Diameter (metres)

Individual Reading Lights

Type – Front

BRAKES:

MODEL: D7

Air-Conditioning Standard

Air-Conditioning Make

Heat/Cool Cling

Make / Model

Cummins D4 .5EVID190

Configuration

Turbocharge, Intercool

Power (HP / kW)

188 / 140

Torque (Nm)

700 @ 1200RPM

Bore and Stroke

107/124

Compression Ratio

17.1 : 1

Fuel Capacity (litres)

150

Oil Capacity (litres)

21.6

Emissions

Euro VI

TRANSMISSION:

Automatic Trans Make/ Allison - 2100 5 Speed Model/ Description Manual Trans Make/ Model/ Description

SUSPENSION:

N/A

Type – Front

Parabolic leaf spring

Type – Rear

Parabolic leaf spring

BRAKES:

BODY OPTIONS: Wheelchair Lift Access

Optional

CD/PA/Radio

Standard

DVD/TV

Standard

Toilet

N/A

Individual Reading Lights

Standard

Individual AC Vents

Standard

Reverse Camera

Standard

Other

360° Driver Warning Camera System, ADAS

SEATING:

Seating Capacity

24 / 41

Passenger Capacity

23 / 40

Fixed Coach

Standard Fixed ADR68

Recliners

Optional

Metro

N/A

SEATING OPTIONS: Seating Make

Yutong

Seating Model

YTHO5

Seatbelts

Standard

AXLES:

Front Make / Model / Desc.

Dongfeng 3T Disc Brake Dongfeng 6T Drum Brake

Service Brakes

Disc, ABS, ASR, ESC

Retarding Brake System

Rear Make / Model / Desc.

Yes

EBS

Standard

STORAGE: Side Bins

Rear

BODY DIMENSIONS:

Thru Bins

No

Body Length (m)

7.73

Internal Luggage Bins

No

Body Width (m)

2.41

Body Height (m)

3.17

AIR-CONDITIONING: Air-Cond Std

Heat/Cool

Body Floor Height (mm) 710

Air-Cond Make

Cling

Body Weight (kg)

Air-Cond Model

PZD-II

N/A

Air-Conditioning Model EZD-07-J2

busnews.com.au

ABC 2024 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

67

CHASSIS & BODIES

VDI / YUTONG

ADDRESS:

WEB:

www.vdiaustralia.com.au

231 Kurrajong Rd, Prestons NSW 2170

EMAIL:

sales@vdiaustralia.com.au

PHONE:

1800 988 664

MAKE: YUTONG

MODEL: C10

MAKE: YUTONG

APPLICATION: SCHOOL/CHARTER/TOUR/MINING CHASSIS DIMENSIONS: Chassis Length (m)

9.98

Chassis Wheelbase (mm)

4830

Chassis Front Overhang (mm) 2290 Chassis Rear Overhang (mm)

2865

Chassis Turning Circle Diameter (metres)

≤ 21

ENGINE:

Make / Model

Cummins D6.7EVID290

Configuration

Turbocharge, Intercool

Power (HP / kW)

213/290

Torque (Nm)

1100 @1000RPM

Bore and Stroke

107 / 124

Compression Ratio

17.1 : 1

Fuel Capacity (litres)

300

Oil Capacity (litres)

26

Emissions

Euro VI

TRANSMISSION:

Automatic Trans Make/ ZF6AP1220C Model/ Description Manual Trans Make/ Model/ Description

SUSPENSION:

N/A

Type – Front

Two spring electronically controlled air suspension - ECAS

Type – Rear

Four spring electronically controlled air suspension - ECAS

BRAKES:

Service Brakes Retarding Brake System

Disc, ABS, ASR, ESC, AEBS

APPLICATION: SCHOOL/CHARTER/TOUR/MINING CHASSIS DIMENSIONS:

BODY OPTIONS: Wheelchair Lift Access

Optional

CD/PA/Radio

Standard

DVD/TV

Standard

Toilet

N/A

Chassis Length (m)

12.37

Chassis Wheelbase (mm)

6450

Chassis Front Overhang (mm) 2600 Chassis Rear Overhang (mm)

3320 ≤ 23

Standard

Chassis Turning Circle Diameter (metres)

Individual AC Vents

Standard

ENGINE:

Reverse Camera

Standard

Other

360° Driver Warning Camera System, ADAS

Individual Reading Lights

SEATING:

Seating Capacity

44

Passenger Capacity

43

Fixed Coach

Standard Fixed ADR68

Recliners

Optional

Metro

N/A

SEATING OPTIONS: Seating Make

Yutong

Seating Model

YTHO5

Seatbelts

Standard

AXLES:

MODEL: C12

Front Make / Model / Desc.

Yutong 6T Disc Brake

Rear Make / Model / Desc.

Yutong 12T Disc Brake

STORAGE: Side Bins

No

Thru Bins

Yes

Internal Luggage Bins

No

Make / Model

Cummins L9EVID340

Configuration

Turbocharge, Intercool

Power (HP / kW)

335/250

Torque (Nm)

1600 @ 1200RPM

Bore and Stroke

117 144.5

Compression Ratio

17.1 : 1

Fuel Capacity (litres)

400

Oil Capacity (litres)

32

Emissions

Euro VI

TRANSMISSION:

Automatic Trans Make/ Allison T390R Model/ Description Manual Trans Make/ Model/ Description

SUSPENSION:

N/A

Type – Front

Two Spring Electronically Controlled Air Suspension - ECAS

Type – Rear

Two Spring Electronically Controlled Air Suspension - ECAS

BRAKES:

Service Brakes

Disc, ABS, ASR, ESC, AEBS

Retarding Brake System

Yes

BODY OPTIONS: Wheelchair Lift Access

Optional

CD/PA/Radio

Standard

DVD/TV

Standard

Toilet

Optional

Individual Reading Lights

Standard

Individual AC Vents

Standard

Reverse Camera

Standard

Other

360° Driver Warning Camera System, ADAS

SEATING:

Seating Capacity

54 / 58

Passenger Capacity

53 / 57

Fixed Coach

53 / 57 Standard Fixed ADR68

Recliners

Optional

Metro

N/A

SEATING OPTIONS: Seating Make

Yutong

Seating Model

YTHO5

Seatbelts

Standard

AXLES:

Front Make / Model / Desc.

Yutong 7T Disc Brake

Rear Make / Model / Desc.

Yutong 13T Disc Brake

STORAGE: Side Bins

No

Thru Bins

Yes

BODY DIMENSIONS:

Internal Luggage Bins

No

Body Length (m)

12.37

Body Width (m)

2.5

Air-Cond Std

Heat/Cool

Body Height (m)

3.61

Air-Cond Make

Cling

Body Floor Height (mm) 1295

Body Floor Height (mm) 1295

Air-Cond Model

SDDR-06

Body Weight (kg)

Body Weight (kg)

EBS

Yes AEBS

BODY DIMENSIONS: Body Length (m)

9.88

Body Width (m)

2.5

Body Height (m)

3.64

68

AIR-CONDITIONING: Air-Cond Std

Heat/Cool

Air-Cond Make

Cling

Air-Cond Model

SDDR-05

N/A

ABC 2024 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

EBS

Standard

AIR-CONDITIONING:

N/A

busnews.com.au

B U

S

W

A

BusWA would like to thank their sponsors for their great support

MULTISPARES

MEDIA PARTNER

To become a Member or Sponsor of BusWA,

Phone John on 0418 914 815 Today!

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AIRCONDITIONING

AUSMOTOR

AUSSIE EXPANSION

With a local network established, Ausmotor is looking to bring more exciting Songz models into Australia in 2024 and beyond

W

ith a local network developed, Ausmotor Industry is looking to introduce more exciting Songz bus HVAC models, focusing on Songz brand air-conditioners and battery thermal management systems (BTMS) for zero-emissions buses for the Australian industry in 2024 and beyond.

As the exclusive supplier of Songz Automobile Air Conditioning in Australia, Ausmotor is prepared with a full range of Songz brand electric bus A/C and BTMS options available for the local market in 2024 and beyond.

Songz’s LMD-VI-BND model and the higher model LMD-VIT-AND for 12.5m electric buses have been the standout performers recently for Ausmotor, as it has tailored the popular zero-emissions bus’ HVAC models to supply to Australian bus operators.

“While we now have full series electric bus A/C models from Songz in our range, the 12.5m unit is a very well-liked option,” Ausmotor general manager Scott Ma told ABC. Songz’s LMD-VI models have extensive range, with the model being a proven global leader in terms of quality within the zero-emissions bus markets in China and around the world.

Alongside Songz’s premier 12.5m zeroemissions bus A/C in the LMD-VI model, Ausmotor is also supplying a full series of Songz products to the local market.

The 12.5m version is now available as an electric model, while other units suited to both zero-emissions and diesel buses range from 8m to 18m in length. Songz models are also available for doubledecker buses, with the JLE-IIIB being ideal for zero-emissions vehicles of that size.

“With electric buses coming into the 70

ABC 2024 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

IMAGES SONGZ market, we’ve brought a wide range of A/C units into the Australian zeroemissions bus market that are perfectly suited to all electric buses,” Ma says.

“Ausmotor is expecting Songz-made electric models to become a major player in the Australian market, as Songz’s electric bus A/C units are in the upper echelon of global technical quality for A/C models.”

Songz is one of the world’s largest auto A/C manufacturer and a global leader in EV A/C units and BTMS. When it comes to research and design, as well as manufacturing zero-emissions systems, Songz supplies to the majority of Chinese bus manufacturers including BYD, King Long, Higer, Foton and Golden Dragon.

Songz has also provided its products for 16 overseas bus manufacturers, such as CAIO and Marcopolo in Brazil. There are currently about 30 countries that feature buses with Songz products installed.

With 15 Songz-owned manufacturing facilities located in China, Indonesia and Finland, Songz produces more than 40,000 electric bus A/C kits and 10,000 sets of BTMS annually.

From Ausmotor’s perspective, Songz’s HVAC units are an ideal fit for the Australian zero-emissions bus market due to their leading qualities and production capacities, as well as their competitive costs and energy savings.

Ma says these factors make Songz an enticing choice for operators wanting to introduce zero-emissions units onto its bus and coach fleets.

“We’re eligible to play a role in supplying zero-emissions A/Cs and BTMS to the zero-emissions bus market,” Ma says.

“We also have the most competitive

prices to satisfy the best interests of our clients and a well-established local aftersales maintenance network, so we are ready to service a greener future in Australia.”

Top & Above: Songz’s A/C models are on many buses around the world, including in Australia

WHAT TO LOOK FORWARD TO IN 2024 For Ausmotor and Songz, 2024 will continue to revolve around the electric bus A/C market.

“Alongside introducing Songz’s proven zero-emissions bus LMD-VI models for 12.5m electric buses, we are looking forward to spreading Songz’s sustainable offerings by bringing all Songz models into Australia that we can,” Ma says.

To find out further what Ausmotor will bring into Australia in 2024 from Songz, head to www.ausmotor.com.au.

busnews.com.au

AIRCONDITIONING

AUSMOTOR

WEB:

PHONE:

www.ausmotor.com.au

Scott Ma Mobile: 0413 528 908

MAKE: SONGZ AUTOMOBILE AIR CONDITIONING CO. LTD MODEL: LMD-VI-BND COOLING

Capacity (Evaporator Room 40ºC/45%RH/Condenser Room 30ºC)

22~37kW (Variable frequency adjustable)

Power Consumption (max)

9.6kW

HEAT PUMP (OPTIONAL)

Capacity (which can operate normally at ambient temperature -3ºC)

20-28kW (Variable frequency adjustable)

Power Consumption (max)

8.7kW

ULTRA-LOW TEMPERATURE HEATPUMP (OPTIONAL)

Capacity (ultra-low temperature heat pump function, which can operate normally at ambient temperature -15ºC)

22~31kW (variable frequency adjustable)

Power Consumption (max)

9.7kW

PTC HEATING (OPTIONAL) Capacity

16kW

Power Consumption (max)

16kW

INTEGRATED BTMS COOLING (OPTIONAL) Capacity (when the E-bus stops and recharge)

ROOF

Dimension (mm)

3300x1900x262

Weight (max)

350kG

Air Flow Volume Condenser (Fan quantity)

10000 m3/h

Air Flow Volume Evaporator (Blower Quantity)

6600 m3/h

Shell Material

SMC

Air Purifier

Optional

busnews.com.au

10kW

HIGH VOLTAGE RANGE High voltage range

REFRIGERANT

DC320~DC820V

Type

R407C

Recommended charge weight

7.5kG

ABC 2024 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

71

AIRCONDITIONING

COACHAIR

WHAT TO LOOK FORWARD TO IN 2024

SOLIDIFYING SUCCESS

While O’Donnell is proud that 2023 was one of Coachair’s best years in recent memory, this won’t stop him from attacking 2024 with similar vigour to help Coachair continue its forward momentum.

He’ll be continuing to strengthen his aftersales and service side with further growth so that they can assist customers with the two leading Coachair units on Australian buses and coaches.

“The high-quality team that’s behind the high-performing Coachair product is the reason why our customers are coming in droves to Coachair,” O’Donnell says.

Two leading models made 2023 a busy year for Coachair, with the HVAC brand focusing on continual growth in 2024

I

IMAGES COACHAIR

n the past year, Coachair has surged in the local HVAC market on the back of two new unit releases.

When Coachair brought out its new look XT 44 and electric EX 32 models, it signalled an evolution of airconditioning technology for the local brand.

Coachair general manager Anthony O’Donnell has spent 2023 spreading the word of the two new units far and wide to Australian operators.

“Coachair has brought out two new units in the past 12 months,” O’Donnell told ABC. “They’ve both been received incredibly well. Now, we’ll be continuing to support our customers by getting out in the field to do what’s needed to keep equipment on the road.”

The first major release from Coachair was the XT 44. A technological progression from Coachair’s popular XT 353 model, the XT 44 is a lighter unit with larger capacity and air flow. Using new technology, the refrigeration coil and fan motors remove the need for running motor drivers.

This technology has fast become a flagship of Coachair’s modern range, 72

ABC 2024 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

being offered as standard for diesel buses and coaches across Australia.

“For power to weight ratio, it would be the largest and lightest unit in the Australian market,” O’Donnell says.

“It’s also backed by Coachair’s vast network of aftersales service and spare parts.”

O’Donnell says the XT 44 has been “received magnificently”, with major customers transitioning from the well-loved XT 353 to the XT 44 without any hesitation. O’Donnell says a major part behind this seamless change has been the improved technology, lighter weight and larger capacity of the new Coachair unit.

Yet the XT 44 is only half the story behind why 2023 has been one of Coachair’s best years in recent memory. The electric EX 32 has also burst onto the scene, expanding Coachair’s foray into cutting-edge technology.

“Our data on the EX 32 proves it’s the lightest and most power efficient electric unit in the Australian market today and has the largest capacity available in the local market,” O’Donnell says.

“Coachair has been building electric

Top & Above: Coachair has had a successful 2023 courtesy of its new XT 44 and EX 32 A/C models

rail and tram units for 40 years, so this progression in technology makes it an innovative model.”

O’Donnell says an important part of Coachair’s success has been on the back of its local focus. The 100 per cent Australian owned company designs and develops the models through Australian engineers with local conditions and operators in mind.

He says this has been a key reason behind the EX 32’s immediate popularity.

“Some of our parts are manufactured locally in Australia, that’s our focus,” he says.

“People know we’re an Australian company that has local jobs in engineering, designing and developing.” busnews.com.au

AIRCONDITIONING

COACHAIR

WEB:

PHONE:

www.coachair.com

1300 287 247 EMAIL:

sales@coachair.com

MAKE: COACHAIR

MAKE: COACHAIR

MODEL: XT44

MODEL: EX32

STANDARD INFORMATION Cooling Heating Airflow

Unit weight & dimensions

Rated Capacity (kW)

44

Power Consumption (kW)

85 amps at 24 volt DC

Heating Capacity (kW)

38

Evaporator (m3/hr)

7000

Condenser (m3/hr)

9500

Weight (kg)

180

Length (mm)

3360

Width (mm)

1720

Height (mm)

220

STANDARD INFORMATION Cooling Heating Airflow

Unit weight & dimensions

Rated Capacity (kW)

32

Power Consumption (kW)

10

Heat pump capacity (kW)

30

Evaporator (m3/hr)

8000

Condenser (m3/hr)

10000

Weight (kg)

230

Length (mm)

3000

Width (mm)

1920

Height (mm)

270

Power supply (volts)

24

Power supply (volts)

750

Compressor

Various

Compressor

Electric Variable Frequency Compressor

Refrigerant

R134a

Refrigerant

R407c

Application

Bus length 10m-14.5m

Application

Bus length 10m-14.5m

busnews.com.au

ABC 2024 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

73

AIRCONDITIONING

VALEO

ONE-STOP SHOP

Valeo’s growing HVAC products range from the latest electric airconditioning models to a variety of pumps, compressors and heaters IMAGES VALEO

V

aleo’s range of crucial HVAC components have grown to become a true one-stop shop for local bus and coach operators. Its suite of HVAC products include its A/C units, the TM range of compressors, its boost pumps, diesel and electric heaters and driver demisters.

In Australia, Valeo’s popular A/C models include the CC355 unit for diesel applications and the REVO®-E Global electric variation. Valeo says these two models being supplied in Australia both come equipped with brushless blowers and fans, yet the focus of Valeo worldwide and in Australia is on its electrification journey and zero-emissions A/C products.

“Valeo has upgraded its software in both the electric and diesel A/C applications to align with the likes of Transport for NSW and other tender requirements,” Valeo Australia general manager Paul Williams told ABC. In the electric sphere, the REVO®-E Global involves Valeo’s emphasis on lightweight construction, performance

and simple installation in the design process. In addition, the electric A/C units are fitted with heat pump technology, while customers also have the option to include PTC heating and battery cooling.

The REVO®-E Global has been a hallmark of Valeo’s product range since the company entered Australia 10 years ago, when it was known as Spheros. More than 200 REVO®-E Global have been sold into NZ, while in Australia the unit has also featured on BLK Auto and Global Bus Ventures’ first hydrogen bus models.

The model goes on the roof of a bus, with operators just needing to connect high-voltage cables and plug it into a bus’ CAN system before beginning a service.

Another main feature of the Valeo range is the TM compressor, which, according to Valeo, has built a solid reputation in the diesel drive realm.

“Known for its durability and optimal size, it has become the preferred choice for numerous operators and

“Valeo is committed to developing solutions for greener mobility and to become a world leader in technologies to reduce CO2 emissions while improving the comfort onboard for buses and coaches.”

Valeo’s battery cooling system

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ABC 2024 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

The SPump 500

chassis suppliers,” Williams says.

Outside of compressors and its REVO®-E Global, Valeo also manufactures pumps ready to use alongside HVAC systems in the form of its SPump products. The new versions of the SPump come with PWM and CAN, featuring variable speed control, energy reductions and reduced noise emissions to deliver the performance required for electric powered vehicles.

Williams says the SPump S120 and S200 are the lightest weight and most compact circulation pumps of their kind within the product family. The 500W variant provides an extended ambient temperature range of up to 95 degrees Celsius to make the SPump an ideal water pump solution.

Alongside its compressors and A/C models, Valeo has a long history of designing and manufacturing coolant pre heaters to the market in both diesel and electric versions.

The Thermo HV is at the front of this line-up, providing a future solution for plug-in and electric powered buses.

The device can ensure a constantly high heat output of 12kW and has a flexible use in a power range of 600 to 875 Volts.

Furthermore, Valeo also has a range of driver demisters and other features available to go alongside its HVAC products. Alongside this, Valeo Australia will continue prioritising its comprehensive service network that can be accessed via its website, with its local technical staff also available to support customers.

“Valeo is committed to developing solutions for greener mobility and to become a world leader in technologies to reduce CO2 emissions while improving the comfort onboard for buses and coaches,” Williams says. busnews.com.au

e

BEST BUS CLIMATE SYSTEMS

Foto: Adobe Stock / Dieter Holstein

SPump 500

Revo® E Global

Battery Cooling System

+61 3 97 06 00 84 WWW.VALEO-THERMALBUS.COM

Visit us, wherever you are

TM

COMMERCIAL VEHICLE DISC BRAKE PADS

To combat the extreme pressures that heavy duty vehicles such as Cement Agitators, Garbage Compactors or City Route buses are exposed to, Bendix has created Bendix Protrans™HD. Protrans™HD has a heavy-duty formulation designed to cope with high temperatures found in constant braking and full GVM loading which requires a higher performance brake pad.

MATERIAL REFERENCE

APPLICATION

FRICTION CLASSIFICATION

Protrans™HD

Super Heavy Duty – Severe duty applications, Refuse Compactors, Concrete Agitators, FE Route bus applications. Frequent braking environments, heavy traffic, steep gradients. Long wear life at high brake temperature. Strong resistance to fade at very high temperatures.

MAXIMUM CONTINUOUS WORKING TEMPERATURE 500°C

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

busnews.com.au

ABC 2024 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

75

SEATING

STYLERIDE

WIDENING RANGE

StyleRide’s leading seat models, from the Premier Protean to the Aquarius, offer a variety of options for Australia’s bus and coach operators IMAGES STYLERIDE

W

Top: In 2023, StyleRide moved into its new Acacia Ridge premises Opposite middle: StyleRide’s seat models are flexible, comfortable and safe Below: The introduction of Brad Roycroft has made operations more efficient

76

hether it be the popular metro seating models it’s renowned for in the Australian bus and coach industry or its latest innovations, StyleRide is continuing to grow off the back of focused product development.

Heading into 2024, StyleRide’s seating range of products have continued to expand and offer increased flexibility to suit customer applications, with the Australian seating brand jam-packed with models to furnish the nation’s different types of buses and coaches.

StyleRide’s leading seat models start with the Urban Deluxe and Premier Protean range.

These comfortable and durable product lines are suitable for all non-seat belted applications, such as metro bus services.

The Premier Protean is the progression of the Urban Deluxe, offering expanded passenger comfort with a wider seat position.

With a stainless steel frame, compressible black urethane top and a selection of foam and seat width options available, the Protean and Urban seats focus on ensuring passenger comfort and safety.

Both seat models also have options available for hip restraints, stanchion clamps, mounting leg and cantilever variations for all body styles that can include combinations for five-across seating.

“The flexibility and adaptability of the

ABC 2024 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

Protean and Urban ranges has seen them specified both Australia wide and internationally as standard fitment for a multitude of fleet operators and bus manufacturers,” StyleRide Seating Systems national business development manager Simon Allen told ABC. “The core advantage of the Premier Protean and Urban ranges, as with all of our seats, is that they’re built in Australia and we can offer support for it from the first day of delivery.”

Yet the Premier Protean is only one part of a diverse suite of bus and coach seating models. The Orion has been a longstanding member of StyleRide’s product range, becoming a popular part of Australian bus and coach fleets.

Developed around StyleRide’s investment in 3D modelling and computer aided manufacturing such as robotics, the Orion is an incredibly flexible model.

The Orion is available in various widths and can come as a single bench style cushion or as individual coach style cushions. With an attractive ergonomic design and inboard belt retractors, Allen says this non-reclining model provides outstanding value for money.

Magazine nets, foldaway armrests and a choice of headrest covers are only a snippet of options available to Orion customers, showcasing StyleRide’s versatility as a seating provider.

“We’re finding that the Orion is a very popular option due to its flexibility,” Allen says.

“A variation being offered is the School Guard. This allows operators to fit many more seat spaces onto a range of buses and coaches – some recent deliveries have busnews.com.au

WHAT TO LOOK FORWARD TO IN 2024 With its range of seats only continuing to evolve, StyleRide will head into 2024 looking to emphasise its personal focus with its customers.

“Our goals are to work closely with our clients, such as chassis suppliers, bodybuilders and fleet owners, to keep our relationships as fruitful as ever,” Allen says.

“We’ll listen to what they say regarding their requirements – for example, a lot of it so far has been on the need for lightweight seats for zero-emissions buses – and we’ll develop these innovative seats without sacrificing the quality and strengths that StyleRide is known for.” provided for more than 80 passengers in a single vehicle.

“It’s a very adaptable and high quality seat – it’s become one of our most popular models.”

This dedication to utilising space and remaining efficient shines through with the Solutions 2-3 model. Designed to accommodate two passengers over 12 years old and three passengers under 12, the seat has been designed to meet the demands of new and replacement seat configurations.

Coming with easy-to-replace seat belt retractors and superior quality fire retardant foam, the clever design of the model focuses on comfort durability and maximising space.

“When being used for children under 12, it can increase the seating capacity of a bus by up to a third, making it very adaptable for charter and school vehicles,” Allen says.

“It’s relatively new to the market but has already found its niche within the industry.”

While there are plenty more seating models available, part of StyleRide’s evolving catalogue in the Aquarius has become a highlight for Australian operators. The Aquarius is all about passenger comfort, with Allen saying its high quality and ergonomic features make it a stand-out in the market.

“It is reclinable and a very good looking seat belted seat that comes in a range of variations,” Allen says.

“With different luxury types available for that model, it’s known in the industry as a dynamic seating design busnews.com.au

for local bus and coach operators.”

These four models cover the spectrum of Australia’s bus and coach sector. StyleRide is able to supply fully compliant tested, well designed and ergonomic seats from the largest of coaches through to the smaller minibuses. Allen says StyleRide has focused on improving its ability to provide bespoke seating products that are high quality and incredibly safe.

It’s been a busy 2023 for StyleRide, having refreshed its internal makeup and adjusting to a new facility in Brisbane’s Acacia Ridge. Allen is one of these changes, having quickly learnt about the industry since arriving at the company in 2023.

He was soon joined by Brad Roycroft, formerly from bodybuilder Volgren Australia, as StyleRide’s new production manager. Allen says his arrival has allowed the

seating manufacturer to increase its efficiencies.

“Brad’s presence has allowed us to produce more seats on time and to specifications,” Allen says.

“He’s reorganised the production of our seats and the proof is in the pudding.”

The shift internally has allowed StyleRide to free more time and organise its future. Allen, along with Roycroft and general manager Garrin Angel, have been occupied planning for what 2024 will have in store for the evolving Australian seating brand.

“Previously we didn’t have the time to extensively plan our production and sales functions,” Allen says.

“Now, with the injection of experienced people, we are able to instigate and investigate processes in detail to manage aspects of the business moving forward.”

ABC 2024 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

77

SEATING

STYLERIDE

PHONE:

WEB:

07 3272 7550

www.styleride.com.au EMAIL:

sales@styleride.com.au

YEAR: 2024

MAKE: STYLERIDE MODEL: PREMIER PROTEAN

APPLICATION: URBAN

YEAR: 2024

MAKE: STYLERIDE MODEL: ORION

APPLICATION: SCHOOL/CHARTER

STANDARD INFORMATION Reclinable

No

STANDARD INFORMATION Reclinable

No

Fabric type

As requested

Fabric type

As requested embroidery/highlight stitching/ multiple colours

Flip up

Optional

Flip up

No

Fixed

Yes

Fixed

Yes

Seatbelt

No

Seatbelt

Yes

Handgrips

Yes

Handgrips

Optional

Ergonomic seat back

No

Ergonomic seat back

Yes

UNIT WEIGHT & DIMENSIONS Height (mm)

Std 927 made to measure

UNIT WEIGHT & DIMENSIONS Height (mm)

Std 1115 optional leg heights

Width (mm)

800/ 910/ 1200 made to measure

Width (mm)

2 Person 998

Minimum seeat centre (mm)

NA

Minimum seeat centre (mm)

Na

Weight (Kg)

18

Weight (kg)

25.5

MOUNTING SYSTEM Type

OPTIONS & FEATURES

Cantilever/uni mount legs

Options

USB port

Features

Lightweight/anti graffiti/modular to suit multiple applications

78

ABC 2024 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

MOUNTING SYSTEM Type

OPTIONS & FEATURES

Wall or leg mount

Options

Usb/magazine pocket armrests/coat hook/reading light/ multifunctional console/table/footrest

Features

Ergonomic design adr68 /designed to maximise comfort and seating capacity

busnews.com.au

PHONE:

WEB:

07 3272 7550

www.styleride.com.au EMAIL:

sales@styleride.com.au

YEAR: 2024

MAKE: STYLERIDE MODEL: SOLUTIONS 2-3

YEAR: 2024

MAKE: STYLERIDE MODEL: AQUARIUS

APPLICATION: COACH

APPLICATION: COACH STANDARD INFORMATION Reclinable

No

STANDARD INFORMATION Reclinable

Yes

Fabric type

As requested embroidery/highlight stitching/ multiple colours

Fabric type

As requested embroidery/highlight stitching/ multiple colours

Flip up

No

Flip up

No

Fixed

NA

Fixed

NA

Seatbelt

Yes

Seatbelt

Yes

Handgrips

Optional

Handgrips

Optional

Ergonomic seat back

Yes

Ergonomic seat back

Yes

UNIT WEIGHT & DIMENSIONS Height (mm)

1115 Std/optional leg heights

UNIT WEIGHT & DIMENSIONS Height (mm)

1120 Std/optional leg heights

Width (mm)

950

Width (mm)

2 person 1006

Minimum seeat centre (mm)

Na

Minimum seeat centre (mm)

Na

Weight (Kg)

28

Weight (kg)

27

MOUNTING SYSTEM Type

OPTIONS & FEATURES

Wall or leg mount

Options

Usb/magazine pocket armrests/coat hook/reading light/ multifunctional console/table/footrest

Features

Ergonomic design adr68 /designed to maximise comfort and seating capacity. Seats 3 people under 12yo or 2 people over 12yo.

busnews.com.au

MOUNTING SYSTEM Type

OPTIONS & FEATURES

Wall or leg mount

Options

Usb/magazine pocket armrests/coat hook/reading light/ multifunctional console/table/footrest 3 Levels of luxury- std/ice/ deluxe

Features

Ergonomic design adr68 /designed to maximise comfort and seating capacity

ABC 2024 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

79

SEATING

SEGE SEATS

FLEXIBLE SEATING

With its seating models continuing to grow, Sege Seats is enjoying success courtesy of its flexible and tailorable approach to supplying bus and coaching seats IMAGES SEGE SEATS

W

hen it comes to the evolving bus and coach seating market, it’s the little things that can make a massive difference. Sege Seats knows this, having factored in a variety of extras into some of its leading seats.

Whether it be the Sege Passenger 4036 model or its 4020F product, Sege Seats’ leading options can be tailored to facilitate and meet any customer needs.

“Seats come as standard and then all of our extras can be added or removed at any time,” Sege Seats managing director Lance Taskin told ABC. “There’s space for all of this to be installed externally, making it simple to adjust seats to what customers want.”

When it comes to the popular Sege Passenger 4020F model, a variety of options are made available by Sege to add onto the seats for buses and coaches. Starting with either a reclining or fixed backrest, these seats come with internal 3P all-age seat belts and both foldable and central armrests.

For further rests, adjustable head, foot or leg rests are also part of the Sege seating product, with vertical handles, magazine nets and service tables also some of the available extras to add onto the comfortable seat.

With reclining ropes and an isofix part of the add-ons, Sege has a long list of options that can elevate normal bus and coach seats to models that add to the passenger experience.

“Our customers love the flexibility, comfort, safety and appearance of our seats,” Taskin says.

Yet Sege Seats has also put in work to tailor its models to the evolution of technology. On the Sege Passenger 4020F model, operators can include phone holders and USB chargers to ensure devices are kept steady and charged throughout a variety of journeys.

On the similarly popular Sege Passenger 4036 seat, a service table with an iPad slot is also available to take the passenger experience to the next level.

The Passenger 4036 also comes with other

80

ABC 2024 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

WHAT TO LOOK FORWARD TO IN 2024 With the two models in the Passenger 4020F and the Passenger 4036 continuing to lead the way for Sege Seats in Australia, the seating brand will continue evolving its models to tailor to Australia’s growing bus and coach market.

Whether it be through new models or features, Taskin says that Sege will never stay still as it continues to push seating technology to the next level.

“We’ll have one seat set to arrive in Australia in a lighter model for electric vehicles,” Taskin says.

“We have taken off some accessories to make the model lighter without changing the seat frame so that it can cater to the electric bus market.” extras that differ from the Passenger 4020F. Alongside the collection of rests available on many Sege seats, the Passenger 4036 comes with the option to include pipe armrests, top tethers and intermediate covers.

With lateral seat adjustment also on the cards for certain seats and foldable backrests, the Passenger 4036 provides a different way of tailoring seats to meet operators’ needs.

From above left: Sege’s range of recliners, tray tables, device accessories and seat belted models provides maximum comfort for Australian bus and coach passengers Top right: In 2024, Sege will focus on lightweight seat models busnews.com.au

SEATING

SEGE

ADDRESS:

PHONE:

12 Normanby St, Fairfield East NSW 2165 AUSTRALIA

0414 882 520 EMAIL:

MOBILE:

info@segeseats.com.au

+61 2 9727 0440

EMAIL:

segeseats.com.au

YEAR: 2024

MAKE: SEGE

MODEL: PASSENGER 4036

YEAR: 2024

MAKE: SEGE

MODEL: PASSENGER 4020F

APPLICATION: SCHOOL/CHARTER/COACH

APPLICATION: SCHOOL/CHARTER/COACH

STANDARD INFORMATION Reclinable

Yes

STANDARD INFORMATION Reclinable

Yes

Fabric type

Wool blend and Leatheret

Fabric type

Wool blend and Leatheret

Flip up

No

Flip up

No

Fixed

Yes

Fixed

Yes

Seatbelt

Yes

Seatbelt

Yes

Handgrips

Yes

Handgrips

Yes

Ergonomic seat back

Yes

Ergonomic seat back

Yes

UNIT WEIGHT & DIMENSIONS Height (mm)

1075-1175

UNIT WEIGHT & DIMENSIONS Height (mm)

1080-1180

Width (mm)

420-450

Width (mm)

420-450

Minimum seat centre (mm)

400

Minimum seat centre (mm)

400

Weight (Kg)

15 to 18kg

Weight (Kg)

15 to 18kg

MOUNTING SYSTEM Type

OPTIONS & FEATURES

Floor and wall mount

Options

School and charter

Features

Mg net usb footrest extra cushioning

busnews.com.au

MOUNTING SYSTEM Type

OPTIONS & FEATURES

Floor and wall mount

Options

School and charter

Features

Mg net usb footrest extra cushioning

ABC 2024 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

81

DOORS

VENTURA SYSTEMS

ELECTRIC OR PNEUMATIC? Electric propulsions have become an integral part of public transport, slowly becoming the new standard for buses and coaches around the world. But what is the leading technology when it comes to door systems?

IMAGES VENTURA SYSTEMS

P

neumatic drive systems have served the bus market for many years, with electric drive systems becoming more commonly used in recent times. This technology was introduced by the rail industry on automatic door systems and has almost completely eliminated pneumatic systems from their markets. Ventura Systems says knowing the difference between drive systems is key to choosing the right technology.

It starts with the door system, which has three main parts: a mechanism, the door leaf set and the mounting kit. The door mechanism is what can be based on a pneumatic or electric drive system, with both systems opening and closing at similar speeds.

Instead, a pneumatic drive system supplies energy through cylinders of compressed air that is filtered by a system in the vehicle, while an electric drive system supplies energy through electric actuators that convert the rotational force of an electric rotary

motor into a linear movement through the mechanism, meaning there’s no compressed air needed for door movement.

This immediate breakdown gives rise to an early difference between the two systems – an electric actuator requires a dedicated control device in the form of a door control unit, while a pneumatic drive system isn’t mandated to have one, with the general control on the vehicle’s on-board computer enough to suffice.

Both systems require compressed air for pneumatic emergency systems to push the door leaves open when they are closed unless a non-pneumatic emergency activation is installed.

However, an electric drive system requires a smaller compressor and becomes more energy efficient as there is hardly any air pressure loss.

Ventura Systems says another advantage of electric drive systems is that they are less affected by the effects of low or high temperatures and air pollution on the compressed air due to the limited volume of compressed air involved.

When it comes to the door control unit, an electric drive system has benefits over pneumatic types when it comes to the mandatory dedicated door control unit. A pneumatic drive system is ‘non-feedback’ controlled, while an electric drive system involves the constant control of the door’s

Above: Ventura’s electrical Plug Sliding door system with LED communication Left: Ventura’s electrical Rapid Sliding door system 82

ABC 2024 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

motion, meaning it can be changed in unpredictable situations.

The door control unit also works in perfect harmony with hardware safety features like a sensitive edge. Electric drive systems can provide higher safety levels with lower efforts and costs, as they would be necessary for pneumatic door systems.

When it comes to maintenance and field support, Ventura Systems says both pneumatic and electric drive systems are reliable. If anything, pneumatic drive systems require more maintenance because electric drive systems have lower operating forces, while pneumatic drive systems are more costly because they need to be adjusted over time.

The newer technology on electric drive systems means it’s more suitable for analytic purposes for maintenance compared to pneumatic systems.

However, this newer technology can also result in extra training for maintenance employees familiar with pneumatic systems.

Ventura Systems says it sees electrical drive systems as the future standard for the market, meaning any futureproofing should keep this technology in mind as it could become the basis for door systems on vehicles in the upcoming decades.

Ventura Systems’ door products are designed to operate with a pneumatic or electric drive system that can be easily changed without structural modifications required, as the changes are all within the mechanism. Ventura says this makes the transition from pneumatic to electric very easy, even for retrofits. busnews.com.au

DOORS

VENTURA SYSTEMS

ADDRESS:

PHONE:

WEB:

EMAIL:

PO Box 284 Sanctuary Cove QLD 4212 Australia

Mr. Meijerhof, Wolter Mobile: +61 474 031 074

www.venturasystems.com

AUSinfo@venturasystems.com.au

MAKE: VENTURA SYSTEMS

MAKE: VENTURA SYSTEMS

MODEL: PLUG SLIDING DOOR SYSTEM

MODEL: INWARD GLIDING DOOR SYSTEM

STANDARD INFORMATION Opening direction

Outward

STANDARD INFORMATION Opening direction

Inward

Number of door leaves

2

Number of door leaves

2

Range for portal dimensions (mm)

1000 mm (min) – 1500 mm (max)

Range for portal dimensions (mm)

1100 mm (min) –1425 mm (max)

Drive system

Electric (24V/12V) / Pneumatic

Drive system

Electric (24V/12V) / Pneumatic

Control options

Ventura Door Control Unit / Multiplex (with pneumatic drive)

Control options

Ventura Door Control Unit / Multiplex (with pneumatic drive)

Door opening options

Both leaves / Individual leaf

Door leaf configuration

Symmetrical / Asymmetrical

Glazing options

Single glass / Double glass / Heated glass / Tinted glass

Glazing options

Single glass / Double glass / Heated glass / Tinted glass

Passenger interface options

Wide range of button types Wide range of colour and pictogram configurations Visibility, audio and tactile options Touchless interface LED boarding status communication

Passenger interface options

Wide range of button types Wide range of colour and pictogram configurations Visibility, audio and tactile options Touchless interface LED boarding status communication

Obstruction detection sensors

Sensitive edge / Speed obstruction (DCU) / Overcurrent protection (DCU) / Time out protection (DCU)

Obstruction detection sensors

Sensitive edge / Speed obstruction (DCU) / Overcurrent protection (DCU) / Time out protection (DCU)

Drag detection sensors

Sensitive edge

Drag detection sensors

Sensitive edge

Passenger detection sensors

Horizontal screen / Horizontal beam / Vertical beam

Passenger detection sensors

Horizontal screen / Horizontal beam / Vertical beam

Compliance

ECE R 107 / ECE R 118-3 / ECE R 10 TS 160 / ISO 26262-QM (Ventura DCU)

Compliance

ECE R 107 / ECE R 118-3 / ECE R 10 TS 160 / ISO 26262-QM (Ventura DCU)

Designed for

1.500.000 opening and closing cycles

Designed for

1.500.000 opening and closing cycles

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83

FEATURE

WEBFLEET

DRIVING PROFIT WITH TELEMATICS

Bridgestone’s Webfleet provides an advanced solution to track, manage and improve bus fleets IMAGES WEBFLEET

I

n recent years, telematics has proven itself as one of the most important technological requirements for efficient bus and coach operations in Australia. Whether it be measuring coach performance, keeping passengers and fleet operators updated on inner-city buses completing busy routes, or tracking and reporting key performance indicators, telematics has proven itself to be a critical part of running a profitable bus and coach company.

Yet, these traditional benefits of telematics devices are only the tip of the iceberg for systems such as Webfleet.

“Bus and coach is one of the key sectors for Webfleet in Australia,” Webfleet Australia and New Zealand marketing manager Scott Elkington told ABC. “We provide a full bus fleet management solution, covering bus tracking, performance and operation data capture and AI driver safety and feedback for many of Australia’s largest and smallest bus operators.”

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ABC 2024 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

While driver behaviour and safety monitoring have been key pillars of telematics devices installed on Australia’s latest range of buses and coaches, there’s plenty more below the surface that this technology can do.

“Telematics today goes beyond knowing where buses and coaches are,” Elkington says.

“It’s become an integral part of operations, efficiency and profit. It can give you a comprehensive view of more than the status and location of buses.

“Telematics devices give clear insight into usage patterns, bus health, driver behaviour and incidents, maintenance status, logging and much more – you can’t improve what you can’t track.”

Upon spreading this widened scope of telematics capabilities in Australia, Webfleet has one particular benefit in mind for operators. The concept of marginal gains, or the one per cent factor, is all about small improvements that collect and have impactful results.

In Webfleet’s world, it has used the idea of marginal gains to deconstruct every part of bus use and operations, measure how that impacts performance and, by improving it by just one per cent, this process results in a significant performance increase when it’s all put back together.

“This comes to fruition when we start talking about profit margin and operating costs,” Elkington says.

“When you put all of these small improvements together, you can really move the needle on your profit and costs.”

An example of this in real-life is in fuel use for bus and coach operators. Fuel efficiency is influenced by more than just the engine age or type or the bus make – driver behaviours such as excessive revving, engine idling and speeding can all increase fuel consumption and decrease efficiency.

While it might not seem like a lot of fuel lost per each individual journey, correcting these small driver behaviours means

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these savings quickly stack up day after day and month after month, resulting in an extra few hundred or thousand litres saved.

It may not seem like a huge cost, but if this is then applied to all vehicles in a fleet, it can turn into tens of thousands of dollars saved for companies.

In the telematics and fleet management world, Webfleet is applying this theory to more than just fuel efficiency. Webfleet actively monitors and provides feedback and insight on a whole range of key performance indicators to make marginal gains for operators.

This feedback is all about efficiency, helping bus operators intuitively improve operational performance and reduce their costs.

“Our technology provides AI-driven incabin feedback on small behaviours that drivers can make or change to improve bus performance,” Elkington says.

“Webfleet captures this data into the cloud for operators to remotely review, monitor or act on.”

Outside of fleet efficiency, marginal gains can also be applied to bus and coach safety. When it comes to driver safety, it can be a complex situation to manage, as it can be difficult to link a oneoff incident reported by passengers to a pattern of dangerous driving.

This is where Webfleet’s tools come to the fore. As an always-connected cloud solution, Webfleet can keep and produce a detailed log of a driver’s behaviour, operation and habits, with scores and metrics able to be devised on how they drive to determine if an incident is really a one-off or part of a wider pattern of behaviour.

On top of that, it can also indicate if corrective action needs to happen to keep both drivers and passengers safe.

Webfleet’s primary data-link device, the LINK 740, features an in-built accelerometer, giving insight into negative driver events like speeding, hard braking and harsh turning. When coupled with any Webfleet driver terminal, it can alert drivers that they are operating recklessly and need to refocus on safety.

“Similarly, our CAM50 AI dashcam can scan and record in-cabin for distractions, such as mobile phone use, helping to immediately stamp out dangerous behaviours and prevent fines,” Elkington says.

A new world of telematics capabilities is being opened in the form of obtaining and reporting on zero-emissions and electric vehicle data. The shift to electric busnews.com.au

“Webfleet also interfaces with chargers to let operators choose what time to charge a connected bus and for how long to get the perfect energy price. This is but a taste of Webfleet’s telematics capabilities for electric fleets.” and other zero-emissions models has made KPI data more complex, as EV charging presents new cost variables compared to existing fuel logging measures like depot litres and cost.

Now, it’s all about charge times and on-peak costs, as well as range anxiety, overcharging, excessive downtime due to unoptimised charging behaviour and the dynamic operating range of these newage vehicles.

“It’s a really interesting space, as electric vehicle are new and we’re already talking about how to optimise their use to further the return on investment,” Elkington says.

“Webfleet did a large study of nearly 100,000 Webfleet-connected commercial EVs across Europe to see how commercial fleets charge. What we saw was that the vast majority of EV charging events

occurred during peak-power-price windows, with most vehicles plugging in above 80 per cent remaining charge.

“It’s extremely inefficient and has huge implications on cost, both in money and uptime.”

Through Webfleet, operators can see charging events, energy consumption rates, hot zones for excessive consumption and remaining charge or distance. This information means operators can connect the vehicle cockpit and dashboard to an office screen on a range of vehicles, giving operators complete visibility over its fleet.

Elkington says this opens many doors for operators, but it importantly allows them to see how much energy a bus is forecast to use in a given period, making scheduling charging an easier exercise.

“Webfleet can facilitate optimal charger rotations and scheduling, making it seamless for EV depot management,” Elkington says.

“Webfleet also interfaces with chargers to let operators choose what time to charge a connected bus and for how long to get the perfect energy price. This is but a taste of Webfleet’s telematics capabilities for electric fleets.”

Top: Webfleet’s telematics data can see electric vehicle information such as energy consumption rates Above: Webfleet collects information on key safety and EV events Opposite bottom: Operators can track their vehicle performance from the office ABC 2024 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

85

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COLUMN

BIC

GRAND YEAR AHEAD

Following a successful National Industry Conference in Adelaide, the Bus Industry Confederation has exciting plans underway for 2024

A

s the dust settles on the 2023 National Industry Conference held in Adelaide, the Bus Industry Confederation is already planning two significant industry events in 2024.

The first event, the National Bus and Coach Show, is the only trade exhibition being held in Australia in 2024 for the bus and coach industry. The Show, to be held at the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre on September 17 and 18, will feature the latest range of low and zero-emission buses and associated componentry, including exhibitors from Australia’s leading energy and infrastructure providers.

Round one expressions of interests (EoI) opened earlier this year and the BIC Secretariat were overwhelmed by the response, so much so that the floor plan had to be redesigned so that we could maximise the exhibition space for body, chassis and complete bus manufacturers and suppliers. With the round one companies now locked in, the EOI process has reopened for the remaining exhibition spaces.

It is anticipated that these spaces will quickly be snapped up by the diverse range of companies that make up the

wider bus and coach industry. With up to 40 companies involved in the final assembled bus, there will be a diverse range of exhibitors.

A great way to really stand out from other exhibitors is to become a show sponsor. There are limited sponsorship opportunities available, so exhibitors are encouraged to seize these opportunities quickly.

Alongside the exhibition will be a series of tool talks and technical talks.

The programs for these are still being developed and oversighted by an events working group comprised of a cross section of industry representatives from both suppliers and operators. The intent is to ensure that there is something for everyone.

Two short months after the National Bus and Coach Show will be the 2024 National Industry Conference. Held at the Hotel Grand Chancellor in Hobart, this event will showcase a range of sessions covering key issues impacting the industry. The theme of the conference is still to be determined based on feedback from the survey of delegates at the 2023 conference and the events working group.

The events working group is just one of the new or refreshed working groups and committees that the BIC has to inform our advocacy to government, our broader policy agenda and the projects we lead on behalf of the bus and coach industry.

By being part of our committees and working groups, members can contribute to the policies and initiatives that will shape the future of our industry.

We also encourage our members to complete the surveys we distribute from time to time. These assist us to provide comprehensive industry feedback on significant policy, regulatory and technical changes to governments. We want these to work for the bus and coach industry, our staff and our passengers.

Supporting the industry as we navigate day-to-day challenges and those ahead of us is the core business of the Bus Industry Confederation. Please reach out to the Secretariat and Councilors if there are ways we can assist or emerging issues we need to be aware of.

As the year draws to a close, we want to wish everyone happiness, health and the fulfillment of your hopes and goals.

Happy New Year! We hope to see you at an event, large or small, in 2024.

The 2024 National Industry Conference will be held at the Hotel Grand Chancellor in Hobart.

Photo credit: Norman Allchin / Shutterstock.com 90

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EVENTS

EVENTS 2024

Be sure not to miss out on an opportunity to attend these fantastic in-person events FEBRUARY

BusNSW February 13-22

Committee and Branch Meetings

QBIC February 16

Regional Member Forum Toowoomba

BusVic February 27-29

Regional Conferences

MARCH

BusNSW March 4-8

Northern NSW Regional Seminars

BusVic March 13-14

Regional Conferences

BusNSW March 18-21

Southern NSW Regional Seminars

BusVic March 25-27

Regional Conferences

Photo credit: EQRoy / Shutterstock.com

JUNE

QBIC June 8 Regional Member Forum Gympie BusNSW June 20-27 Associate Member Seminars and Committee/ Branch Meetings

JULY

APRIL

BusWA July 11-12 APTIA Breakfast, Bus Show and AGM

MAY

QBIC July 20 Regional Member Forum Chinchilla

QBIC April 4-6 Annual Conference and Gala Dinner BusNSW May 13 Delegates Forum Busworld May 15-17 BusWorld South East Asia –Jakarta Photo credit: jax10289 / Shutterstock.com

BusVic July 27 80th anniversary dinner – Sovereign Room, Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre

AUGUST BusWA August 5

Regional Trips begin

QBIC August 9

Future Leaders Luncheon

BusNSW August 30

NextGen Leaders Forum

SEPTEMBER BusWA September 6

Regional Trips end

BIC September 17-18

National Bus and Coach Show – Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre

OCTOBER BusNSW October 9-10

2024 Member Conference

QBIC October 18-19

Cairns Regional Member Forum

BusNSW October 29-31

Technical Committee Meetings and AGM

NOVEMBER QBIC November 8

Regional Member Forum

BusNSW November 14-15

Associate Members Seminar and Partner’s Lunch

BIC November 20-22

National Conference, Hobart

DECEMBER BusNSW December 2

Delegates Forum and Christmas Function busnews.com.au

ABC 2024 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

91

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