ABC Bus Search 2021

ABC BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

ABC

AUSTRALASIAN BUS & COACH

2021

BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

• AUSTRALASIA-SPEC

E-MOBILITY • SAFETY SYSTEMS AND SEAT COMFORT • ADVANCED FUEL-CELL TECH • LOW-EMISSIONS HYBRIDS + DIESELS

2021 EDITION BUSNEWS.COM. AU

HIGHLEADER FIVE CLASS

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BLK e-bus and fuel-cell coaches in Australia CHASSIS + BODY SPECS | AIR-CON, SEATING, PARTS + ACCESSORIES SUPPLIERS GUIDE | PRODUCT REVIEWS

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UPFRONT

GETTING BACK ON THE BUS

Bus fleets of the future will be cleaner, quieter, more efficient, more connected and more interactive to an increasingly discerning and ‘picky’ public transport-using ‘consumer’. How we get there, though, is the trick.

As a tool, Bus Search endeavours to ‘screenshot’ a range of emerging and interesting bus and coach tech, tips and techniques.

T

here was a time long ago when annual publications were able to vary only slightly in updated content each year, for many industries were inherently stable and predictable. Arguably, that was no bad thing. And, if anything, ‘bus’ overall arguably proved truer of this manta, underwritten by the regularity of regimented routes and routines each day for passengers.

Those days are long gone.

Even aside from the tumultuous commuter and tourist chaos of the past two years, the technological advances toward cleaner-running buses, smarter coaches, and more physically and ‘mentally’ comfortable bus rides were evolving at such pace that people’s busy lives left them wondering just when they’d get the chance to drive the car they owned, which they increasingly couldn’t afford. This was where taking the bus made sense.

Experts in their fields and keen to explore how they can best help your bus business do better, within these 116 pages you’ll find a raft of companies and organisations, sellers and users, ardent critics and casual observers keen to start a conversation with you. And, in turn, you conversing with them. Welcome to Bus Search 2021!

This insightful tool, as many will attest, is a quick reference guide for many in the bus industry and even further beyond to get up to speed with the latest bus and coach product within our region. It also allows those already au fait with much of the latest developments to compare and critically analyse, at their own pace, just how the contents within might be of some use to current bus businesses, why it should, who is doing what and the 4

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“This insightful tool, as many will attest, is a quick reference guide for many in the bus industry.” lessons to be learned.

As a whole, we’ve gone from packed buses and supply stretching to meet demand to people needing to work from home or just twiddling their thumbs watching papier-mâché ‘How To’ videos inside, yearning for the time they can just get out and about again via hopping onto their local bus.

Yet, even as things improve, and with many championing working from home, how will that adversely affect overall bus operator annual PAX? Or maybe it won’t be adverse at all. What if it invoked staggered bus occupancy and scheduling that frees up space, engenders convenience, aides making bus travel increasingly popular for it? Time will tell.

ALL ABOUT THE ‘E’ While the push is on to offer

commuters (consumers) a quieter and cleaner bus-travel experience, be it hybrid, fuel-cell, or full electric, to varying extents a battery is involved – and how that is charged optimally, particularly en masse for anticipated ‘mega bus fleets’ over time, brings the machinations of charging infrastructure into play majorly.

We are seeing such evolution in action, as government public transport policy more acceptingly reflects the need to reach reduced vehicle emissions targets against the clock. And in that lucrative and competitive – and needless to say ‘influential’ – dynamic, the future of the bus must find its way.

We hope you enjoy Bus Search 2021. busnews.com.au

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Enabling the next generation of zero-emission transport

BusTech Group is an Australian advanced manufacturing bus group providing flexible technology solutions to enable the transition to zero-emission mass mobility.

The BusTech all-electric ZDi is Australia’s purpose-built zero-emission bus, enabled by technology and driven by innovation, delivering an intelligent emissionfree transit solution.

Our industry-leading, modern solution is designed, engineered and built in Australia for Australian conditions to accelerate the future of clean, efficient and emission-free transport solutions.

W: www.bustechgroup.com.au E: sales@bustechgroup.com.au

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contents 03 EDITORIAL

Editor Cotter welcomes you back to the 2021 edition of the ABC BusSearch magazine. Enjoy.

08 OVERVIEW – BUS SEARCH, 2021

Chassis and bodies form the bulk of the proud Australasian bus and coach industry and there’s been some exciting developments from some of the big players.

12 KINGS OF LEON – MAN LION’S CITY 12 E

In Europe, MAN’s e-bus tech and stylish body design is winning it all sorts of awards and plaudits from within industry. Think the big German’s tech advances may never make it here in time – or at all? Think again.

20 SILVER SERVICE – VOLVO BUS 50 YEARS IN AUSTRALIA

This year marks 50 years since Volvo Bus first started doing business in Australia and it is celebrating in style with the release of its BZL electric chassis.

30 AN UNEXPECTED JOURNEY - BIG RED KIDNEY BUS

A new Royans-Coachworks-refurbished ‘BRKB’ is supporting Kidney Health Australia as it provides dialysis for kidney disease patients out on the road.

36 POSITIVELY CHARGED – TRANSDEV PROJECT AURORA

Selecting, building and running electric buses day-to-day is one thing, but unless the critical data behind what works and what doesn’t marries up to overall public transport success, you’d have to ask: what was the point? Transdev Australasia’s Aurora Project aims to provide that answer.

44 AUSSIE BUS BODY BUILDER PARTNERS WITH BLK AUTO

Express Coach Builders has entered into a commercial agreement with Bonluck bus importer BLK Auto to make zero-emission battery electric and hydrogen fuel-cell buses here in Australia.

50 BUSTECH-MADE E-BUSES FOR QLD

Queensland’s electric bus roll-out has been “supercharged” following the government commissioning 16 Bustech e-buses – to be made on the Gold Coast – for the state’s first fully electric bus depot.

54 THE PERSONAL TOUCH

Challenger Bus and Coach has built a bus for the Aussie industry from having been an operator

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

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

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

PRINTING IVE Print

ADVERTISING Trader Group Sales Manager: James Rock ph: 0419 139 941 e-mail: James.Rock@primecreative.com.au VIC Sales: Matt Alexander ph: 0413 599 669 e-mail: Matt.Alexander@primecreative.com.au QLD Sales: Hollie Tinker ph: 0466 466 945 e-mail: Hollie.Tinker@primecreative.com.au SA/WA Sales: Nick Lenthall ph: 0439 485 835 e-mail: Nick.Lenthall@primecreative.com.au

NSW Sales: Con Zarocostas ph: 04357 594 238 e-mail: Conzarocostas@primecreative.com.au

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

EXECUTIVE GROUP

within the Aussie industry. The result? The Challenger V12 – with a focus on simplicity and safety.

60 DRIVIN’ THE DREAM – KERTON INVESTMENTS

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

Trevor Kerton runs a small school bus operator service in East Gippsland, Victoria. His newest bus, purchased for a Public Transport Victoria contract, is a Mercedes-Benz OC 500RF with an Irizar body, which impresses in a test drive.

70 STYLE MEETS SAFETY

It’s what you can’t see that’s exciting in the new Fuso Rosa. Here, we test drive the 25-seater Rosa Standard, which boasts some impressive safety features.

74 TAKE FULL ADVANTAGE

Hino’s RN8J with Custom Adventurer body brings together local design and build with the longrunning experience of a business that seeks to understand and support its rural operators. This latest creation is built to meet strict TfNSW school safety guidelines.

80 BUS MANAGEMENT CHANGE AT IRIZAR AUSTRALIA

A leadership change at European coach-body distributor Irizar Australia sees ex-Iveco bus stalwart Steve Heanes now head up the Spanish manufacturer here following Daniel Castro’s promotion to Irizar in the USA.

ABC BusSearch is published by Prime Creative Media 11-15 Buckhurst Street, South Melbourne VIC 3205 Telephone: (+61) 03 9690 8766 Website: www.primecreative.com.au

ISSN 1324-8634

84 SCANIA ‘PLUGS IN’ OVER 500,000 CONNECTED VEHICLES

In excess of half a million connected Scania vehicles are rolling world-wide, continuously sharing data for analysis – with 1,486 of them being connected Scania buses and coaches operating in Australia.

94 E 12 TRIAL SUCCESS

No fewer than 12 Australian operators have successfully trialled a localised variant of Yutong’s globally prolific E12 electric bus, with 500,000km collectively amassed locally and more successful trials still ongoing, Yutong Australia reports.

100 2020–21 BUS DELIVERIES DATA

We look back at the past year’s sales and performance figures in comprehensive graph form.

102 SUPPLIERS

Our seating, air conditioning, parts and accessories systems section gives you guidance and contacts for some of the leading bus suppliers around town.

busnews.com.au

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DISTRIBUTION

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

Australasian Bus & Coach (ABC) BusSearch magazine is owned by Prime Creative Media. All material in ABC BusSearch 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 BusSearch are not necessarily the opinions of, or endorsed by the publisher unless otherwise stated.

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OVERVIEW

BUS SEARCH

The Australasian bus and coach scene is now finding its feet in a world of rapid change, amazing technical advances and a desire and commitment to continue to ‘move people’ in future safer, cleaner and more efficiently. Or so it seems…

I

f you are reading this then chances are you are not just a discerning purveyor of all things bus and coach in the modern age and have a fleeting desire to know more. No, if you’ve picked up Bus Search 2021 there is every likelihood you’ve sensed the industry growth to come and are in this for the long haul.

To be in this position was no easy task, for your innate optimism and forward-thinking bus business sense has now, for most, had to endure not one but two pandemicinduced lockdowns during the past two years – and the first was enough for many.

Bus and coach operations the world over have had to take the changed ways of doing things even more seriously as it seemed a different public transport world and tourist-travel sphere had irrevocably skewed in part. And, in this way, the type of bus product chosen and how best to run them – and the crucial long-term costs versus benefit of them – has never been more important.

The idea of ‘partnerships’ between OEMs and operators, and the feedback-tosupport dynamic, is arguably proving even more crucial as the potential for continued disruptions each year must be entertained.

So, what product to buy and what back-up and ‘understanding’ it comes with, and for how long and why, is the very underlying fabric of purchases going forward. And in this Bus Search you will find many of those keen to help you succeed along the way.

INNOVATION INSIDE Much has happened in merely 12 months – both in bus and out – and that shift in product choice is tempered by knowledge gleaned from e-mobility trials maturing, not just starting, as operators tailor use and requirements and get to better appreciate the implications for larger fleet use.

A range of companies have now allowed their products to prove themselves in realworld terms – whether solid electric route bus results or fuel-cell hydrogen coaches in harsher driving environments – and such is helping shape government policy in terms of what type, and amounts of, buses can, would and should be used in each state or region.

And there are many bus OEMs and ancillary suppliers capable enough to 8

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provide expert and proven choice – if not immediately then soon enough in future.

On our cover we welcome BLK Auto, which is currently bringing in a range of exciting bus products to Australia, and also building on those within it.

It has signed a commercial agreement with Australian bus body builder Express Coach Builders to make zero-emission battery electric and hydrogen fuel-cell buses here in Australia, with the pairing to usher in a range co-engineered by the BLK Auto and Express design teams specifically for the Aussie public transport and mining resources markets.

BLK Auto is also bringing in the nation’s first fleet CBU fuel-cell coaches, tailored to the tough driving conditions in Western Australia’s mining resources areas. Exciting times, indeed – especially with news Fortescue Future Industries is to build a AUD$1 billion ‘electrolyser’ factory in Gladstone, Central Queensland, from 2023.

This is needed to create hydrogen to fuel fuel-cell buses and facilitate re-fuelling station proliferation, or so, apparently.

Also inside, companies like MAN distributor Penske Automotive is now well advanced to bring in a bespoke version of its award-winning Euro-spec Lion’s City E electric bus chassis – the idea being to build the bus around it locally – while still providing an interim brand new 9-litre diesel engine that utilises the latest engine technology (2019) of selective catalytic reduction and diesel particulate filter technology - without the need for exhaust gas recirculation. And in the school bus segment there’s its RR8 IC 19.290 E5, with its small luxury coach feel.

Additionally, the buzz from last year over Volvo Bus bringing in its first BZL electric chassis came to fruition, with its official global online launch recently in Brisbane.

With this year marking 50 years since Volvo Bus first started doing business in Australia, the release of its BZL electric certainly is timely for this growing competitive e-bus market.

The new BZL chassis has been designed to incorporate safety measures around battery protection and internal sensors and software to detect vehicle safety threats.

There will be keen interest in its long-term battery management approach, too, as the

e-mobility transition continues.

TRIALS AND TECH Volgren’s expertise is being showcased in the initial Volvo BZLs and has in Transdev’s Australasia’s successful Project Aurora e-bus trial and interstate rollout. The company’s first electric bus – Aurora 1 – was brought to Melbourne in November, 2019. The remaining four vehicles rolled off Volgren’s Dandenong production line in March, 2021, with one commencing service in Brisbane in April and three going into service in Sydney in May. The reduced weight added to the appeal of the Volgren Optimus BYD electric bus for Project Aurora, with the model having an overall tare weight of 13,000kg. The new Optimus e-bus is one of the lightest zeroemission bus bodies in its class, it says.

An added benefit was the use of BYD chassis, drivetrain and circuitry, with Transdev using BYD extensively across its 1,400 strong global zero-emissions fleet.

Transdev worked with ABB to create an integrated grid-to-plug solution to run the Volgren BYD Optimus fleet.

Speaking of e-mobility, there’s Queensland’s electric bus roll-out “supercharged” via 16 Gold Coast-made Bustech e-buses for the state’s first fully electric depot; Daimler’s recently announced it’s bringing in an e-bus chassis in 2022 for the Aussie market; Scania’s got over 500,000 connected vehicles worldwide continuously sharing data for analysis, with 1,486 operating in Australia; and Yutong’s multiple E12 e-bus trials seems to be impressing local bus operators aplenty.

Add in safety-laden minibuses like Fuso’s Rosa, Challenger Bus’ operatorfriendly and tech savvy coaches, and Hino’s RN8J automatic chassis targeting the school bus market, plus much more for you to take in and absorb.

PARTS AND MORE Towards the back you’ll find a host of leading spare and replacement parts providers, bus seat and air-conditioning suppliers and a collection of others covering much of the gamut of the bus game, to keep your valuable fleet on the road and passengers safe, comfy and happy. Please take a look… busnews.com.au

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FEATURE

DISTINCTIVE SYSTEMS

KEEPING ON TRACK Distinctive Systems’ coach and bus software management systems provide a host of tools to help you keep your business running smoothly.

D

istinctive Systems is a provider of industry-leading software for coach, bus and tour operators.

With a head office in the UK, the company also has national offices in the US and Melbourne, Australia.

Founded in 1982, Distinctive Systems has been operating for over 40 years and now offers a range of software products to assist operators to manage their bookings, assist their staff and track a wide range of operational parameters, all in one place.

COACH MANAGER Coach Manager is a start to finish solution for the management of private charter and contract work specially designed for coach, bus, limousine and community transport operators. The system is in daily use with over 1,650 operators and has handled over 120 million journeys.

The software offers secure handling of bookings, easy and efficient allocation of vehicles and drivers, client confirmations, driver work tickets, invoicing and a built-in sales ledger with extensive financial reporting facilities and links to MYOB and Xero.

Distinctive Systems’ award winning set of cloud based portals, known collectively as the Coach Manager Online Portal, opens up remote access to Coach Manager for an operator’s clients, drivers and operations staff.

Key features of Coach Manager include a quotation management system, the ability to make multi-vehicle bookings spread over several days, the ability to make multiple contract bookings on a year view calendar, automatically generating confirmation emails or letters for each new booking, the ability for clients to see where their coach is on the day of their booking, and the integration of Google Maps to assist in route calculation.

TOUR MANAGER The Tour Booking System is a complete 10

management solution for individual passenger reservations on tours, sightseeing trips and express services.

The system is in daily use with over 300 operators and has handled bookings for more than 14 million passengers.

In addition to being a powerful back office system, the Tour Booking System incorporates a fully automated data driven website for handling online reservations from travel agents and direct clients, with real-time payment processing and automatic emailing of confirmations. Reports include seating plans, pick-up lists and rooming lists, plus a wide range of other operational and financial reporting facilities.

Key features include the ability to split tours on your website into different sections, set up a to-do list, manage home pick-ups effectively, automatically generate invoices, manage accommodation arrangements easily, create a loyalty program, offer discount codes and gift vouchers, and create administrative and operational reports.

VEHICLE MAINTENANCE SYSTEM The Vehicle Maintenance System is a workshop management package specially designed for coach, bus and truck operators. The system is in daily use with over 600 operators.

The software provides defect reporting, statutory inspection planning, scheduled and unscheduled maintenance activity

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management, job cards, history recording and workshop control. Vehicle Maintenance System streamlines the whole process and helps ensure records always meet the required standard.

Key features include the Driver Walkaround Check Mobile App, defect, accident and incident reporting systems, job cards, planners, workload organiser, fluid usage tracker, tyre and stock management and invoicing.

COACH HIRE EXCHANGE Coach Hire Exchange is a free of charge cloud-based passenger recovery and job exchange service for coach and minibus operators.

It is designed to help operators find immediate assistance in the event of a breakdown, or any other situation where passengers need to be picked up and transported as soon as possible. It also makes it easy for operators to find another operator to cover a planned job they need to contract out.

MORE INFORMATION Distinctive Systems says that Simplified Express and limited capacity versions of its systems ensure they are cost effective for even the smallest of operators and it has a skilled team on hand that can provide comprehensive training and support.

For more information on Distinctive Systems’ services, visit: www.distinctive-systems.com/au/ busnews.com.au

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CHASSIS

MAN-PENSKE

KINGS OF LEON – MAN LION’S CITY 12 E

In Europe, MAN’s e-bus tech and stylish body design is winning it all sorts of awards and plaudits from within industry. Think the big German’s tech advances may never make it here in time – or at all? Think again.

WORDS FABIAN COTTER IMAGES COURTESY MAN TRUCK & BUS EUROPE

D

ogs are strange creatures. Cute and fluffy and cheeky and crazy mostly, but if you’ve ever watched different ones in a big park over time, you’ll note when it comes to ‘doing the business’ that the varied strategy and timeframes involved for successful ‘poopies’ seem as wildly unique and idiosyncratic for each pooch. Or is it?

Some do it quickly while others take much longer; some sniff every tree while others can’t be bothered. Add in whether a dog starts to circle first, or selectively does a few figure eights (highbrow, very upper class), or merely ‘opens the bomb bay 12

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doors’ straight away – and you would be forgiven for thinking you were reading way much too into these things and it wasn’t worth further investigation.

Yet, what if there really were ‘method to the madness’?

Just as it turns out dogs are actually lining themselves up on an innately preferred north-south magneticpole axis (called ‘magneto-reception’ – thanks Frontiers In Zoology), many things in life are equally as complex and multifaceted than first thought.

And product launches – specifically buses, for us – are no different.

ALL GOOD THINGS Often enough people, punters, potential customers and casual observers will readily criticise a brand or product based purely on when, or where, it first comes out. How good it is or what thorough R&D, financial commitment and long man-hours are behind it doesn’t even register as a concern – which is a shame.

If that ‘tortoise versus hare’ fable taught us anything, it was not that just ‘slow and steady’ won the race, but that purposeful repeatability and reliability far outweigh any notion of rushing things to market.

MAN’s electric bus know-how and busnews.com.au

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“A slightly modified design highlights the unique nature of the electric drive.”

technological advancements arguably may have taken a little longer than others to get out there – or such is the perception that is only now being proven foolish – but it has done so with performance results and design accolades that underlie untold energy and efforts to justify it. And in its Lion’s City E e-bus architecture, it will be here in Australia soon.

How soon? Well, granted not tomorrow, but no longer than the ‘10 years at least’ or ‘not at all’ that online detractors might readily proffer.

Industry insiders tell ABC magazine, or allude to, within 18 months to two years from now, with MAN’s local distributor Penske Australia confirming it expects it would be no later than 2025.

Motor Show (IAA) for Commercial Vehicles in Hanover, Germany, MAN’s Lion City E – the marque’s first electric bus – was touted as ‘easing the way to zero emissions’, with a central motor and depot charging its pitch and an original ‘reliable range’ of 200km (up to 270km under favourable conditions) over the entire battery life.

With comprehensive consulting services to make it, “...as easy as possible...” for transport companies to get started with electric vehicles (its EV tech is in its trucks, too), and with mass production slated for the second half of 2020, it certainly presented itself as a promising – albeit belated – e-bus option for select European operators.

Operating on the assumption that around 66 per cent of scheduled-service buses will be electric by 2030, the MAN

Truck and Bus Lion’s City topped off the company’s “...new generation of city buses”, following on from diesel and gas engines with a zero-emissions variants.

An evolution of the Lion’s City design, and as the company explained at the time: “A slightly modified design highlights the unique nature of the electric drive. Its most striking feature is the lack of a rear engine compartment, with the batteries installed on the roof, making room for an ideal seating area at the back.

“Firstly, this positioning moves the batteries away from the vehicle’s rear, which is vulnerable in the event of a crash. Secondly, it allows for more design flexibility, more pleasant lighting and up to four additional seats in the interior,” MAN stated.

It opted for one central motor to power

WHAT’S IN THE BOX First showcased in 2018 at the International Above: Lion’s City E e-bus is expected to be here in Australia in around 18 months to two years’ time, sources say.

Right: Bringing this bus to Australia has been influenced by ensuring the latest battery tech is integrated with the Lion’s City E12 and E18 models. busnews.com.au

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CHASSIS

MAN-PENSKE

TEST DRIVE MAN RR8 IC 19.290 E5 WORDS + IMAGE PAUL ALDRIDGE The new MAN RR8 IC 19.290 E5 has been designed for the school run, but has been built with a luxury coach feel. It more than proved its mettle in wet and wintery conditions on a recent test out of the Penske home base in Wacol, Qld. Leaving Penske’s site at Wacol, we’re off for one wet test drive. Then again, test driving a school bus in these conditions might be a good thing as we are going to get a feel for how the RR8 handles and drives in bad conditions. We might be one wet driver and videographer today, but the

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run will certainly give us a true drive, just like us school bus drivers have to experience all the time.

MANs are a great quiet drive; get on board and close the door and everything is impressively quiet. You can just hear the engine and aircon – internal cabin noise great. It’s often small or the minor things that make a big difference in driver and passenger comfort.

The door on this model is a glide-away door. This is the model door used on MAN school buses with the plug door used on the

coaches. It was certainly windy and the door was sufficient to keep the noise down inside.

The Euro 5 MAN D0836 LOH 64 upright in-line six-cylinder has 213kW/290hp@2,300rpm. Straight away, you can feel it’s got power.

At the first roundabout and already it just wants to take off. It’s only a 290, but it’s all about the torque. It’s a really busy roundabout and you need to get in and away – the RR8 certainly does that.

The rear view camera is good – having vision of what’s behind is a useful feature even when not reversing. As a school bus driver, knowing what’s going on all around your vehicle is important for passenger safety.

In bad weather conditions it is good to know that all the safety features are there. The four wheel discs have self-adjusting calipers and integral wear pad sensors and the electronic braking system (EBS) incorporates an anti-lock brake system (ABS) and anti-spin regulator (ASR) for traction control.

We did some sharp corners in the pouring rain and the brakes handled it all perfectly.

There was a slight bit of understeer, which you would expect from brand new tyres.

The visibility out of the windscreen is great.

It’s a split screen and this gives no hindrance at all. The mirrors also worked well – it wasn’t clear if they were standard MAN mirrors, but no complaints about any part of the vehicle.

For the blind spot down the bottom there’s a switch that the driver can adjust to move the blind spot viewing point. If the driver wants to look at the front of the bus, they can roll it right down and they can even get really good vision of the front wheel on both sides.

This feature would be handy when you’re manoeuvring and you want to see what your wheels are doing.

There often can be tricky or tight places that this would be useful in. Say you go to a sporting complex for the first time with a bus load of kids and drop off access is really tight – sometimes you can need to get out and check what’s going on, but these mirrors can

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“It will be possible to upgrade the vehicle concept to the next battery generation.” its electric bus (on the rear axle), then two to power its articulated bus (on the second and third axles), it says.

“These are easier to access and more simply designed than motors in close proximity to the wheels, which provides advantages in terms of maintenance and the total cost of ownership (TCO).

“In particular, the articulated bus benefits in terms of its handling. The two driven axles increase its driving stability and, in turn, its safety, as well as providing maximum energy recovery when braking.”

MAN confirmed.

THE POWER From the initial iteration, the fully electric driveline produced 160kW–270kW in the single-deck ‘solobus’. The power used for this comes from the modular batteries with

do that for you. This would be particularly good in conditions like today when you definitely don’t want to be outside.

Another area found to be really clever and well thought out was the bin area; it has a surprisingly high level attention to detail.

At only 10.5m long, the RR8 still has a really good useable bin space of about 10 square metres, which is more than ample for its needs. There are two bin doors and the area is made to feel more roomy with the fuel tanks being moved right back.

This is meant to be a school bus, but the finish to this bin area was high detail.

It has a tough coated surface, but what is particularly good is that all of the electrical componentry is located here instead of the standard front of bus or in the wheel arches.

For servicing and diagnostics, etc., the placement is ideal: out of the weather and really easy to access. It wouldn’t be a surprise if this placement is one that we see other manufacturers take on board.

Ease of servicing has been really well provided for; you always know a bus is going to be successful when all parts of its operation have been considered. It’s one thing to look great and drive perfectly, but if speed and ease of maintenance hasn’t been a priority in the design and build, it will be a bus that won’t have longevity and repeat customers. The RR8 passes this test.

Indeed, the RR8 is built to be a school bus, a route bus, a bus for small charter work, but it does have a small luxury coach feel. The colour combinations used and fitout are really smart and its looks will stand the test of time.

With 290hp and 1,100Nm it might not sound like a powerful bus, but having that shorter body length with 41 seats means that the power-to-weight combo is excellent.

Any driver would be more than happy to have this bus on their route.

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480kWh (total) capacity (usable capacity around 300kWh) for the single-deck, or 640kWh (400kWh) for the articulated, MAN says.

“In selecting these, MAN decided to take advantage of precision-engineered battery cell technology from the company’s existing range.

These batteries’ sophisticated temperature management guarantees especially strong availability, regardless of the time of year. This way, the Lion’s City E can reliably ensure their range of 200km (or up to 270km under favourable conditions) over their batteries’ full life cycles.”

“The batteries are plugged into a CCS and charged at the depot, which can fully charge solobuses in under three hours and articulated buses in under four, with an average charging power of 100kW,” according to MAN at launch.

This length of time falls accordingly when the maximum charging power of 150kW is supplied, it adds.

“MAN surveyed close to 200 customers throughout Europe and received feedback from several cities. It concluded that, for the sake of routine operations later in the day, flexible and uninterrupted service (without opportunity charging) is more important than an unlimited range,” which, looking back, is right where the Australian e-bus market is placed.

Yet, even then, it fortuitously highlighted: Opposite, Top: MAN’s Lion City E – the marque’s first electric bus – was touted as ‘easing the way to zero emissions’.

Opposite, below: The RR8 is built to be a school bus, a route bus, a bus for small charter work, but it does have a small luxury coach feel.

“Especially since battery technology is developing at a rapid pace … the Lion’s City E will remain at the cutting edge in this regard, as it will be possible to upgrade the vehicle concept to the next battery generation.

“Charging outside of peak hours will also enable operators to tap into smart charge management and benefit from lower electricity rates, further adding to the cost effectiveness of running electric bus services.”

CURRENT TECH Since then, that battery tech has indeed been rapidly evolving, even if such pace of progress to outsiders strikes them as being glacial.

On the contrary, says Penske Australia’s Brisbane-based head of MAN Bus and Coach, Crinel Geaboc, who explains to ABC magazine that bringing such a product out to market here has been greatly influenced by ensuring the latest optimised battery technology is successfully married to the overall Lion’s City E12 and E18 plan.

“We have achieved several milestones as of today. Firstly, the MAN Lion’s City 12E serial production started in October, 2020, in Poland,” Geaboc explained.

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CHASSIS

MAN-PENSKE

480kWh NMC batteries developed internally by MAN. These are getting fully charged in less than three hours [at 150kW charger power, DC],” he said.

“We’re also looking at 6 x 2 double-deck EV driveline chassis based on our MAN A95 diesel low-floor, which is the popular chassis used in Sydney B-Line services.

“These deckers will more likely use the LFP battery technology (instead of NMC) for safety reasons, but this hasn’t been decided yet,” Geaboc confirmed.

WHERE NEXT?

“We’re excited about the Lion’s City E tech and can’t wait to land it here for you.”

Specs MAKE: MAN MODEL: Lion’s City 12 E + (18 E) DIMENSIONS: 12,200mm x 2,550mm x 3,320mm; (18,100mm x 2,550mm x 3,320mm) WEIGHT: 19,500kg (29,900kg) BATTERY: Roof-mounted NMC; Capacity – 480kWh (640kWh) RANGE: 200km (realistic conditions); 270km (favourable conditions) POWER: Continuous power – 160kW; peak power – 240kW CHARGING: Depot (overnight), CCS plug; Power – up to 150kW (DC); Time – less than three hours, (18E) – less than four hours MOTOR: Electric central (two driven axles, two electric centrals); Continuous power – 160kW (320kW); Max performance – 270kW (540kW) GEARBOX: Single-stage adapter (Single-stage adapter, electronic synchronisation between the two driven axles) SUSPENSION: CDS shock absorbers AXLES: Front – low-floor axle with independent wheel suspension; Rear – low-floor drop centre axle with stabiliser MISC.: Aircon – automatically controlled all year concept; electric roof air conditioning system using heat pump and electric heater elements, auxiliary heater using alternative fuels (biodiesel, HVO, etc).

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“Secondly, the largest order so far in Europe is 39 units with operator VAG Nuremberg in Germany. That consists of 11 rigid [single-deck solo] 12E buses and 28 articulated 18E buses,” he stated.

“Also, the best distance travelled on a single battery charge so far is 550km, while normal operating distance is 270km for the life of the batteries – i.e. it’s warranted for eight years currently, but we’d like to increase it to 10 years shortly.

“And then MAN was awarded the IF Gold Design Award recently for the Lion’s City 12E EV bus specification,” Geaboc said.

LOCAL OBJECTIVES For Australia, Geaboc says Penske Australia intends to maintain the same business model as it currently has, which is to “…bring in complete built MAN EV chassis units made in Europe and build the bus locally with an MAN-approved bus body builder.

“A new communication platform more suitable to autonomous technology and busto-bus communication is also going to be implemented in the new MAN EV buses, which will also get the more efficient hub electric driveline motors in future rather than a single central motor,” he explained.

“The first EV CBU will be a 2.5m wide rigid [solo] with a heavy-duty low-floor chassis designed to last 20-plus years.

“The Australian EV bus is yet to be named, but will have the same specification as our highly successful Lion’s City 12E in Europe, using

As Geaboc concedes, there might be a perception amongst local MAN bus fans that it’s a bit slow off the mark in getting an e-bus out to market – not just here but even earlier in Europe – but that with technology improving rapidly and advances in other areas, like telematics and body weight reductions via select materials, rushing something out when not properly tailored for Australian use would defeat the purpose.

“It’s a pretty unique environment here in Australia, in terms of different topographies, charging infrastructure requirements and expected longevity and reliability of buses in use, so while it’s not right here now it soon will be, and we’ll know what we offer our customers will be just right. We’re excited about the Lion’s City E tech and can’t wait to land it here for you,” Geaboc said.

UNTIL THEN...

“Before the incoming new electric drivetrain, MAN has released an interim solution – the brand new nine-litre diesel engine that utilises the latest diesel engine technology (2019), combining selective catalytic reduction and diesel particulate filter technology without the need for exhaust gas recirculation.

“This new D15 engine delivers 330hp [246kW] and significant fuel efficiency gains over the already popular MAN D20 engine that is available in Australia,” Geaboc explained.

“Few OEMs can proudly boast that they achieve Euro 6D and 6E emission standards using only SCR technology proving, once again, MAN’s advanced engineering is really working for us locally – delivering low whole-of-life costs, and superior performance.”

Above: The Lion’s City E can reliably ensure their range of 200km (or up to 270km under favourable conditions).

Right: Charging outside of peak hours will also enable operators to tap into smart charge management, says MAN.

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ADDRESS:

WEB:

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

man.com.au EMAIL:

bussales@man.com.au

YEAR: 2021

MAKE: MAN

MODEL: LE 19.330 RC2

YEAR: 2021

MAKE: MAN

APPLICATION: CITY – ROUTE

APPLICATION: CITY – ROUTE

DIMENSIONS:

DIMENSIONS:

MODEL: LE 19.320 RC2

Length (metres)

10.5 to 13.0

Length (metres)

10.5 to 13.0

Wheelbase (mm)

4,000 Buggy form

Wheelbase (mm)

4,000 Buggy form

Front Overhang (mm)

Provisional

Front Overhang (mm)

Provisional

Rear Overhang (mm)

3,400 (3,150 opt)

Rear Overhang (mm)

3,400 (3.250 opt)

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/D1556 LOH SCR without EGR E6d or E6e

Make/Model

MAN/D2066 LUH32 EGR Euro 5, no Adblue required

Configuration

Inline 6-cyl. 9ltr turbo

Configuration

Inline 6-cyl. 10.5ltr turbo

Power (kW)

243 opt: 206/265

Power (kW)

235

Power (hp)

330 opt:280/360

Power (hp)

320

Torque (Nm)

1,400 opt:1,200/1,600

Torque (Nm)

1600

Bore and Stroke mm

115 x 145

Bore and Stroke mm

120 x 155

Oil Capacity (litres)

40.5

Oil Capacity (litres)

42

FUEL TYPE

(DIESEL/CNG/ELECTRIC/DIESEL ELECTRIC HYBRID)

FUEL TYPE

(DIESEL/CNG/ELECTRIC/DIESEL ELECTRIC HYBRID)

Type

Diesel E6

Type

Diesel E5

TICS Injection Pump

Denso common rail

TICS Injection Pump

Bosch EDC 7 common rail

Capacity (litres)

1 x 300 opt: 2 x 145

Capacity (litres)

1 x 300 opt: 2 x 145

TRANSMISSION: Auto Model / Type

TRANSMISSION: ZF/6AP1400 Ecolife 2 6-speed

AXLES:

Auto Model / Type

ZF/ 6AP2000 Ecolife 6-speed

AXLES:

Type – Front

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

Type – Front

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

Type – Rear

MAN/HY1350-B03/13000kg. Stabiliser bar.

Type – Rear

MAN/HY1350-B03/13000kg. Stabiliser bar.

SUSPENSION:

SUSPENSION:

Type – Front

Air (ECAS)

Type – Front

Air (ECAS)

Type – Rear

Air (ECAS)

Type – Rear

Air (ECAS)

BRAKES:

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

2x 120A

Alternator

2x 120A

Starter

24V/5.5kW

Starter

24V/5.5kW

Batteries

2x 12V 225Ah

Batteries

2x 12V 225Ah

WHEELS & TYRES:

WHEELS & TYRES:

Type

10 stud steel

Type

10 stud steel

Rim Size

8.25 x 22.5

Rim Size

8.25 x 22.5

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CHASSIS

MAN

ADDRESS:

WEB:

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

man.com.au EMAIL:

bussales@man.com.au

YEAR: 2021

MAKE: MAN

MODEL: IC 19.330 RR8

YEAR: 2021

MAKE: MAN

APPLICATION: CHARTER, SCHOOL

APPLICATION: CITY – ROUTE

DIMENSIONS:

DIMENSIONS:

MODEL: IC 19.290 RR8

Length (metres)

11.0 to 13.0

Length (metres)

10.5 to 12.5

Wheelbase (mm)

Buggy form

Wheelbase (mm)

4,000 Buggy form

Front Overhang (mm)

4,000 / Provisional

Front Overhang (mm)

Provisional

Rear Overhang (mm)

3,400 (3,250 opt)

Rear Overhang (mm)

3,150 (3,400 opt)

Turning Circle Diameter (m)

Dependent on wheelbase. 56 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/D1556LOH EGR E6d

Make/Model

MAN/D0836LOH87 EGR E6d

Configuration

Inline 6-cyl. 9ltr turbo

Configuration

Inline 6-cyl. 7ltr turbo

Power (kW)

243 opt: 265

Power (kW)

213

Power (hp)

330 opt: 360

Power (hp)

290

Torque (Nm)

1,400 opt: 1,600

Torque (Nm)

1,100

Bore and Stroke mm

115 x 145

Bore and Stroke mm

108 x 125

Oil Capacity (litres)

40.5

Oil Capacity (litres)

27.5

FUEL TYPE

(DIESEL/CNG/ELECTRIC/DIESEL ELECTRIC HYBRID)

FUEL TYPE

(DIESEL/CNG/ELECTRIC/DIESEL ELECTRIC HYBRID)

Type

Diesel E6

Type

Diesel E6

TICS Injection Pump

Denso common rail

TICS Injection Pump

Bosch EDC 7 common rail

Capacity (litres)

480 (opt: 2 x 200)

Capacity (litres)

1 x 300

TRANSMISSION: Auto Model / Type

TRANSMISSION: ZF/6AP1400 Ecolife 2 6-speed

AXLES: Type – Front Type – Rear

Auto Model / Type

ZF/6AP 1200 ecolife 6-speed

AXLES: MAN/VOS-08-B-01/ 8,000kg. Rigid front axle (opt: Independent Inter City or Inderpendent Coach).

MAN/HY1350-B03/13000kg. Stabiliser bar.

SUSPENSION: Type – Front

Air (ECAS)

Type – Rear

Air (ECAS)

BRAKES:

Type – Front

MAN/VOK-08-B/8,000kg. Rigid front axle.

Type – Rear

MAN/HY1350-B03/13,000kg. 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

2x 120A

Alternator

2x 120A

Starter

24V/5.5kW

Starter

24V/5.5kW

Batteries

Batteries

2x 12V 225Ah

2x 12V 225Ah

WHEELS & TYRES: Type

10 stud steel

Rim Size

8.25 x 22.5

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WHEELS & TYRES: Type

10 stud steel

Rim Size

8.25 x 22.5

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ADDRESS:

WEB:

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

man.com.au EMAIL:

bussales@man.com.au

YEAR: 2021

MAKE: MAN

MODEL: CO 19.430 RR2

YEAR: 2021

MAKE: MAN

MODEL: CO 26.510 RR4

APPLICATION: CHARTER - LONG DISTANCE, SCHOOL

APPLICATION: CHARTER - LONG DISTANCE, SCHOOL

DIMENSIONS:

DIMENSIONS:

Length (metres)

11.0 to 13.0

Length (metres)

12.5 to 14.5

Wheelbase (mm)

Buggy form

Wheelbase (mm)

Buggy form

Front Overhang (mm)

Provisional

Front Overhang (mm)

2,005mm temporary

Rear Overhang (mm)

3,400

Rear Overhang (mm)

1,470mm + 3,100mm (2,950 opt)

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 LOH37 SCR E6d

Make/Model

MAN/D2676 LOH37 SCR E6d

Configuration

Inline 6-cyl. 12.5ltr turbo. Up to 510hp available.

Configuration

Inline 6-cyl. 12.5ltr turbo. Up to 510hp available.

Power (kW)

316 opt: 346/375

Power (kW)

375

Power (hp)

430 opt: 470/510

Power (hp)

510

Torque (Nm)

2,100 opt: 2,300/2,500

Torque (Nm)

2,500

Bore and Stroke mm

126 x 166

Bore and Stroke mm

126 x 166

Oil Capacity (litres)

42

Oil Capacity (litres)

42

FUEL TYPE

(DIESEL/CNG/ELECTRIC/DIESEL ELECTRIC HYBRID)

FUEL TYPE

(DIESEL/CNG/ELECTRIC/DIESEL ELECTRIC HYBRID)

Type

Diesel E6

Type

Diesel E5

TICS Injection Pump

Bosch EDC 17 common rail

TICS Injection Pump

Bosch EDC 17 common rail

Capacity (litres)

480 (opt: 2 x 220)

Capacity (litres)

480

TRANSMISSION: Auto Model / Type

TRANSMISSION: ZF/MAN Tipmatic 12OD automated with retarder. Opt: ZF 6AP2520 Ecolife 2 (430/470hp only) 12-speed

AXLES: 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: Service Brakes

Air/Disc

Retarding Brake System

Integrated hydraulic retarder

EBS

EBS

ELECTRONIC SYSTEM: Alternator

2x 120A

Starter

24V/5.5kW

Batteries

2x 12V 225Ah

WHEELS & TYRES: Type

10 stud alloy

Rim Size

8.25 x 22.5

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Man Penske Chassis 2021.indd 19

Auto Model / Type

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

AXLES: 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

Retarding Brake System

Integrated hydraulic retarder

EBS

EBS

ELECTRONIC SYSTEM: Alternator

2x 120A

Starter

24V/5.5kW

Batteries

2x 12V 225Ah

WHEELS & TYRES: Type

10 stud alloy

Rim Size

8.25 x 22.5

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CHASSIS

VOLVO BUS AUSTRALIA

SILVER SERVICE VOLVO BUS 50 YEARS IN AUSTRALIA This year marks 50 years since Volvo Bus first started doing business in Australia and it is celebrating in style with the release of its BZL electric chassis.

WORDS AND IMAGES COURTESY VBA

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A

s state governments and operators move to convert their bus fleets to electric in the coming years, and Volvo Bus Australia (VBA) launches its brand new BZL electric chassis, the company says that there are inherent challenges that come with operating electric vehicles and it is increasingly important to ensure their safe and effective operation.

This electric technology incorporates a range of new operational factors including high voltage cables, batteries, electric charging interfaces

and energy storage – requiring a long-term strategy to ensure extensive understanding on the way these vehicles are built, operated and serviced. This will be essential to securing the safety of not only bus driver, passengers and road users in general, but mechanics and emergency service workers who will encounter these high voltage systems.

“Now is certainly not a time to compromise – our view is that the industry has done such a fantastic job, leading the discussion on safety, that we must continue to push for the very busnews.com.au

12/10/21 12:57 pm

“Our view is that the industry has done such a fantastic job, leading the discussion on safety, that we must continue to push for the very best.”

best,” said Mitch Peden, general manager at VBA. “The nature of these electric buses requires an understanding of the way high voltage vehicles are built, operated and serviced, and we are fortunate enough to have built up real experience within the e-mobility space to support these needs. High voltage systems are nothing new to our dealers, technical support staff and operators who

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have been running our hybrid products for 10 years now in Australia.”

VBA says that it is committed to implanting safety in and around electric vehicles, with its recent partnership with TAFE NSW to develop a new range of specialised safety industry-based courses testament to this.

These short courses will be specific to the introduction of electric buses in Australia to help mechanics upskill and work safely with bus technology. The courses will also help others as they encounter these new products in a variety of areas, including assembly of a new electric bus, servicing the vehicle in the workshop, driving the bus and managing emergency service responses if required.

BZL CHASSIS Beyond safety training, VBA says it is

Left: Volvo Bus Australia’s new BZL electric bus chassis made its official debut, recently.

Above: Mitch Peden announces electric vehicle training with Minister Lee: Mitch Peden and NSW State Minister for Skills and Tertiary Education Geoff Lee at the announcement of TAFE courses for training on electric vehicles.

Below: Volvo Bus celebrates 50 years of doing business in Australia in 2021.

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CHASSIS

VOLVO BUS AUSTRALIA

Top: Volvo says its success lies in ensuring its vehicles meet the demanding conditions of this country, wherever they are driven.

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prioritising the integration of safety measures directly into the bus tech. The new BZL chassis has been designed to incorporate safety measures around battery protection and internal sensors and software to detect vehicle safety threats. Its high voltage interlock loop will also ensure that high voltage is contained within the energy storage system whenever access to the vehicle’s systems is required and the BZL features a safety-conscious vehicle profile with both sub-floor protection and design protection to maintain vehicle integrity.

“While now we have ADR [Australian Design Rule] regulations and general guidance on electric vehicles, we want to close the gaps through our innovative bus design and high voltage training,” said Peden.

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“Just meeting what’s requires in Australia has never been our approach – using the highest global standards and focusing on safety is part of our DNA. It’s not only the bus itself, it’s the whole system that the bus operates in. It’s the drivers, the technicians, passengers and, on occasion, emergency response staff that must have their safety assured at all times. We have completed numerous risk assessments now – on the depot, the route, the operation – what we see is that every new project needs to be considered on its merits and we are working hard to ensure this.”

The Volvo BZL Electric chassis is available in lengths from 9.9 to 12.5 metres, and features a proven driveline adapted from Europe, combined with the same trusted electrical system, suspension and pneumatic system as Volvo’s B8RLE Euro 6 and B5LH hybrid products. Internally, the bus features a full low-floor layout meaning no steps in the aisle of the vehicle.

CELEBRATION TIME Reflecting back on 50 years in Australia, VBA says that it is its dedication to safety, quality and insightful innovation of bus product – delivered to its customers through honest and respectful partnerships – are the values that it will continue to pursue.

Whether dusty, corrugated Outback tracks or less-than-perfect city bitumen, Australia’s roads truly test any vehicle that covers long distances. busnews.com.au

12/10/21 12:59 pm

European driving conditions throughout the years have consistently been remarkably different to what’s here, so when Volvo Europe decided, many years ago, to venture into ‘the great unknown on other side of the world’ with its car, truck and bus products, the company says that it quickly realised that there was no room for error.

Finessing its products like the B10M and B58 with quality materials and thoughtful engineering, to meet the local conditions, Volvo brought

with it a dedication to passenger comfort and driver safety, fuel efficiency and reliability, as well as an aptitude and attitude to always listen to its customers and learn from its mistakes, it says.

Fifty years later, VBA is proud to say that it is still here, doing what it does, and has worked hard to attain and maintain its number one position in the Australian bus market for more than 10 years.

HISTORY BOOKS So just how did VBA start? Its inception isn’t as clear cut as many would think, involving the fortunes of Volvo cars globally and decisions on where to export product to – or not.

The first Volvo cars were imported

by Peter Antill and Lance Lowe (who

later started his own motor accessories business and motoring news service).

In 1962, the concession passed to British and Continental Motors (now Monaco Motors). Annual sales were around 50 units.

Antill devoted his time to the company he started in 1948, Antill Ranger, one of the trailblazers for heavy interstate transport. He was an ex-Navy Commander and business partner Ken Ranger had been a fighter pilot. Like Lindsay Fox of Linfox, Ken Thomas of TNT and Lou Marks of Brambles, after WW2 they each bought trucks and went into business.

In 1948, a 20-year-old country boy Max Winkless joined Antill Ranger as a driver, but with Antill soon recognising his potential, in 1952 he became NSW manager and then general manger in

“VBA has worked hard to attain and maintain its number one position in the Australian bus market for more than 10 years.”

busnews.com.au

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CHASSIS

VOLVO BUS AUSTRALIA

TOP ROLE

Above: Mitch Peden, VBA general manager.

Above: Port Stephens Coaches has been running Volvo buses since 1981.

Opposite, Top: David Mead – vice president Volvo Bus, Asia Pacific.

Opposite, Right: Volvo currently holds a $549 million contract to deliver 900 new buses between 2019 and 2029 to Western Australia’s PTA. 24

In 2021, not only is Volvo Bus Australia (VBA) celebrating its 50 anniversary in business but also its 11th consecutive year of bus and coach ‘market leadership’, the company announced, recently.

Upon reflecting on the achievement, the Volvo Bus team says it is, “… immensely grateful to have had the continued support of their valued customers and dealer network across Australia, which enabled them deliver 385 buses and maintain their position as market leaders.”

In particular, it says, because 2020 was a tough year for the entire industry, with the pandemic demanding significant, rapid changes.

More than a decade ago in 2010, VBA proudly reclaimed its position as the market leader for the first time since 1993, it says. Now, 11 years later, Volvo Bus remains ahead of all other OEMs in Australia – an achievement that has been attested to its core values, industry-leading service and support levels, and the resulting long-term relationships built with customers, dealers and partners across Australia, it explains.

“While Covid-19 has presented many challenges for the industry this year, we are very grateful to have had the continued support of our customers, dealer network, the Volvo Bus Corporation globally,

1955. It was around this time that Maarten Mooi (eventual Volvo Car and Truck Centre manager in Moorebank, NSW) arrived in Australia and got his first job with Antill Ranger.

In 1954, Antill’s truck portfolio expanded to become a dealer for Rootes Commer Knocker trucks, forming a subsidiary called Truck Sales and Service a year later. In 1959, the company became the NSW importer of American-made Mack trucks.

Fate would see transport giant Mayne ‘Nicks’ Nickless purchase Antill Ranger – including Trucks Sales and Service – in 1961, crucially taking Winkless all the way to Sweden. A group led by Winkless and including Antill weren’t thrilled to be part of this new, large organisation and so pooled

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as well as the wider Volvo Group,” said Mitch Peden, general manager of Volvo Bus Australia.

“Our strong focus on service has seen us foster the largest major accounts and contracts team in the Australian bus and coach industry, with demonstrated results in our successful, longstanding partnerships with the cities of Brisbane and Perth.

“These service efforts have also extended to our aftermarket support through dependable communication and training, so that we can consistently provide effective customer solutions and dealer support.

“I believe our commitment to our customers, dealers and partners is a testament to our passionate and dedicated team as we proudly confirm our position as market leader for an eleventh year,” stated Peden.

CONSISTENT EFFORTS Volvo’s long-standing success has also been facilitated by consistent efforts for improved safety, reliability and fuel-efficiency across its city, school and coach product range, it states.

These products have delivered value to customers through Volvo’s promise of quality, safety and environmental care, and have simultaneously

together and bought TS&S from ‘Mayne Nicks’, setting up shop in Mascot.

This site was soon occupied by Volvo car dealer Svenske Motors, which AB Volvo itself would appoint as importer for NSW, Qld and South Australia in 1965. British and Continental were retained as dealers in Sydney. Volvo offices subsequently popped in Brisbane, Canberra, Wollongong and Adelaide.

A Winkless trip to AB Volvo in Sweden to discuss importation of cars soon changed topic to trucks once he’d seen Volvo heavy haulers in action. AB’s ‘no’ at first soon changed in the face of his persistence, with two F86 trucks his eventual first stock. These and two others were put into service with Mayne Nickless in late 1966.

This was the start of Volvo’s heavy commercial vehicle base establishment in Australia, with buses inevitably to follow.

In 1968, Volvo AB started to see the brand’s potential in Australia for luxury cars, heavy trucks, buses and earth-moving machines, but local company Swedish Motor Importers lacked the capital to increase volume. After much negotiation, a new company was to be formed and on July 1, 1970, Volvo Australia was announced.

The first managing director was Per Eriksson, from the AB Volvo executive group, who would lead a total of 95 employees in the new company.

Bus became a key product component to the mix and in 1971 a $2 million national headquarters was established for car, truck and bus divisions in Sydney, with VBA delivering its first chassis that year, too.

In years to come, Volvo buses would become the dominant brand in the busnews.com.au

12/10/21 1:00 pm

introduced innovative and exciting technologies – many of which have been industry firsts, it explains.

With consistent technological improvements, a highly skilled and trained bus technician team and product support from the largest dealer network in the country, Volvo Bus Australia remains well equipped with the expertise and resources to remain at the forefront of customer service and support in the everchanging landscape – ensuring ‘solutions, reliability and uptime for customers’ is an upmost priority for Volvo Bus, according to the company.

FUTURE TECH As Volvo Bus Australia celebrates 11 years of market leadership, the team looks forward to the much-anticipated release of the electric chassis in 2022 and other exciting technologies as it continues to, “… lead with their values of quality, safety and environmental care.”

“To have more than a decade of leadership has been amazing.” upgrading of public transport fleets in Adelaide, Hobart, Melbourne, Canberra and Brisbane.

Asked about milestones along the way, David Mead, vice president for Volvo Bus, Asia Pacific, said: “2010 stands out as one where Volvo Bus Australia had over 600 units delivered, taking us to number one that year, which was a turning point.

“Now, to have more than a decade of leadership has been amazing. It’s hard to get there and harder to stay

busnews.com.au

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there. So, I’d say that in 2010 it was a breakout year. From then it’s been an achievement to maintain that.

“What has contributed to our success has been never taking business for granted! We work hard not to be complacent. People often ask who are the key customers – but to me it doesn’t matter, they’re all key.

You can be part of the Volvo family buying one or 100 units.

We’ve also been humble in our position of leadership. For many

customers that is very comforting.

They’ve made that decision to work with us. It means they’ve trusted us to be their business partner more than any other brand.

“What will set VBA apart from its competitors in years to come is continuing to innovate in products – be it electric or other fuels. The other thing is that the organisation needs to keep evolving as each city changes the way they do transport. As the market changes, we must change.”

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CHASSIS

VOLVO

WEB:

PHONE:

www.volvobuses.com.au

NSW: Qld & NT: Vic, SA & Tas: WA:

EMAIL:

info.bus.au@volvo.com ADDRESS:

Ray Andrich 0418 213 320 or Stuart Woodward 0406 465 301 Leonie Conyers 0436 912 354 Anthony Fisicaro 0418 365 356 Adrian Boevé 0488 902 205

41 Bivouac Wacol QLD 4076

MAKE: VOLVO MODEL: B8R EU5

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:

FUEL SOURCE / CAPACITY:

Type

Diesel

Type

Diesel

Capacity (litres)

300lt

Capacity (litres)

270lt

TRANSMISSION:

TRANSMISSION:

Manual Model / Type

NA

Manual Model / Type

NA

Auto Model / Type

ZF/ZF Ecolife 6AP1200C/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.

Auto Model / Type

ZF or Voith/ZF Ecolife 6AP1200C, 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:

AXLES:

Type – Front

Volvo/NA/Rigid I Beam

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.

Type – Rear

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

SUSPENSION:

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

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:

WHEELS & TYRES:

Type

10 stud steel or aluminium wheels

Type

10 stud steel or aluminium wheels

Rim Size

8.25 x 22.5 / 9 x 22.5

Rim Size

8.25 x 22.5

CLUTCH:

CLUTCH:

Model/Type

NA

Model/Type

NA

Diameter (mm)

NS

Diameter (mm)

NS

Control

NA

Control

NA

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busnews.com.au

11/10/21 7:52 pm

WEB:

PHONE:

www.volvobuses.com.au

NSW: Qld & NT: Vic, SA & Tas: WA:

EMAIL:

info.bus.au@volvo.com ADDRESS:

Ray Andrich 0418 213 320 or Stuart Woodward 0406 465 301 Leonie Conyers 0436 912 354 Anthony Fisicaro 0418 365 356 Adrian Boevé 0488 902 205

41 Bivouac Wacol QLD 4076

MAKE: VOLVO MODEL: B8R EU6

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)

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

Capacity (litres)

480L

TRANSMISSION: Manual Model / Type

Auto Model / Type

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 6AP1200C/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 – 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

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

FUEL SOURCE / CAPACITY: Type

Diesel

Capacity (litres)

280L

TRANSMISSION: Manual Model / Type

NA

Auto Model / Type

ZF or Voith/ZF Ecolife 6AP1400C, 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 – 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

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:

CLUTCH: Model/Type

Volvo/Volvo

Model/Type

NA

Diameter (mm)

NS

Diameter (mm)

NS

Control

Fully Automatic

Control

NA

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Volvo Chassis 2021.indd 27

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CHASSIS

VOLVO

WEB:

PHONE:

www.volvobuses.com.au

NSW: Qld & NT: Vic, SA & Tas: WA:

EMAIL:

info.bus.au@volvo.com ADDRESS:

Ray Andrich 0418 213 320 or Stuart Woodward 0406 465 301 Leonie Conyers 0436 912 354 Anthony Fisicaro 0418 365 356 Adrian Boevé 0488 902 205

41 Bivouac Wacol QLD 4076

MAKE: VOLVO MODEL: BZL ELECTRIC CLASS: LOW FLOOR

MAKE: VOLVO MODEL: B5L S-CHARGE (HYBRID) EU6

APPLICATION: CITY - ROUTE

APPLICATION: CITY – ROUTE

DIMENSIONS:

DIMENSIONS:

Length (metres)

9.9mtr - 12.5mtr

Length (metres)

12.5

Wheelbase (mm)

5000mm - 7500mm

Wheelbase (mm)

5900-6200

Front Overhang (mm)

2500

Front Overhang (mm)

2500

Rear Overhang (mm)

2315

Rear Overhang (mm)

3490

pending body configuration

Turning Circle Diameter (metres)

Pending Body Configuration

Turning Circle Diameter (metres)

ENGINE:

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)

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

Oil Capacity (litres)

30

Type

Electric

Capacity (litres)

Bodybuilder fitment, up to 1000L

FUEL SOURCE / CAPACITY:

Make/Model

Volvo/EPT

Configuration

2 electric motors

Power (hp/kW)

400kw

Torque (Nm)

31000

TRANSMISSION: Manual Model / Type

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

Type

Diesel-Electric Hybrid

Capacity (litres)

220lt

TRANSMISSION: 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/ 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

Type – Rear

Air bellows, rear x 4

BRAKES:

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: Type – Front

Electronically controlled air suspension with anti-roll bar

Type – Rear

Electronically controlled air suspension with anti-roll bar

Service Brakes

Disc

Retarding Brake System

Yes

BRAKES:

EBS

Yes

Service Brakes

Disc

Retarding Brake System

Yes

EBS

Yes (with Electronic stability control)

ELECTRONIC SYSTEM: Batteries

2 x 105ah AGM

WHEELS & TYRES: Type Size

275/70 R22.5

Rim Size

7.5 x 22.5″

Wheel Type

Aluminum or Steel

ELECTRONIC SYSTEM: Alternator

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

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:

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Model/Type

Volvo/Volvo

Diameter (mm)

NS

Control

Fully Automatic busnews.com.au

11/10/21 7:53 pm

WEB:

PHONE:

www.volvobuses.com.au

NSW: Qld & NT: Vic, SA & Tas: WA:

EMAIL:

info.bus.au@volvo.com ADDRESS:

Ray Andrich 0418 213 320 or Stuart Woodward 0406 465 301 Leonie Conyers 0436 912 354 Anthony Fisicaro 0418 365 356 Adrian Boevé 0488 902 205

41 Bivouac Wacol QLD 4076

MAKE: VOLVO MODEL: B11R EU5

MAKE: VOLVO MODEL: B11R EU6

APPLICATION: CHARTER – LONG DISTANCE

APPLICATION: CHARTER – LONG DISTANCE

DIMENSIONS:

DIMENSIONS:

Length (metres)

12.5 - 14.5

Length (metres)

12.5 - 14.5

Wheelbase (mm)

5000-7400

Wheelbase (mm)

5000-7400

Front Overhang (mm)

2049-2399

Front Overhang (mm)

2050-2630

Rear Overhang (mm)

2670

Rear Overhang (mm)

2760 (3 axle) 3340 (2axle)

Pending Body Configuration

Turning Circle Diameter (metres)

Pending Body Configuration

Turning Circle Diameter (metres)

ENGINE:

ENGINE: Make/Model

Volvo/D11C

Make/Model

Volvo/D11K

Configuration

Vertical 11L

Configuration

Vertical 11L

Power (hp/kW)

370/272 410/302 450/302

Power (hp/kW)

380/279 430/316 460/339

Torque (Nm)

1750 / 1950 / 2150

Torque (Nm)

1800 / 2050 / 2200

Oil Capacity (litres)

36

Oil Capacity (litres)

36

FUEL SOURCE / CAPACITY:

FUEL SOURCE / CAPACITY:

Type

Diesel

Type

Diesel

Bodybuilder fitment, up to 1000L

Capacity (litres)

Bodybuilder fitment, up to 1000L

Capacity (litres)

TRANSMISSION:

TRANSMISSION: Manual Model / Type

Volvo/I-shift AT2412E/12 speed manual gearbox with an automatic gear changing system that optimises gearshift constantly under all operating conditions.

Manual Model / Type

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

Auto Model / Type

ZF/6AP2000C (Ecolife)/ZF: 6 speed fully automatic transmission with integrated retarder and electronic control system (370hp engine only)

Auto Model / Type

ZF (380hp only)/6AP2000C (Ecolife)/6 speed fully automatic transmission with integrated retarder and electronic control system (380hp engine only)

AXLES:

AXLES: Type – Front

Volvo/NA/Independent or Rigid I-Beam

Type – Front

Volvo/NA/Independent or 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 available.

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:

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

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

2x 150A, 3 x 150A

Alternator

2x 150A, 3 x 150A

Starter

Volvo

Starter

Volvo

Batteries

Batteries

2x225Ah

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

WHEELS & TYRES:

WHEELS & TYRES: Type

10 stud steel or aluminium wheels

Type

10 stud steel or aluminium wheels

Rim Size

8.25 x 22.5 / 9 x 22.5

Rim Size

8.25 x 22.5 / 9 x 22.5

CLUTCH:

CLUTCH:

Model/Type

Volvo

Model/Type

Volvo

Diameter (mm)

NS

Diameter (mm)

NS

Control

NA

Control

NA

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11/10/21 7:54 pm

BODIES

ROYANS COACHWORKS

AN UNEXPECTED JOURNEY BIG RED KIDNEY BUS WORDS FABIAN COTTER IMAGES COURTESY SEAN OWENS + KHA

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busnews.com.au

12/10/21 9:48 am

Kidney Disease affects more Australians than many think it does – and that’s even if people know they have it. A Big Red Kidney Bus helps those patients, now fully aware of their ‘silent killer’, to get back some quality of life through travel.

A new RoyansCoachworksrefurbished ‘BRKB’ adds to the charity’s vital patient support program.

busnews.com.au

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W

as country singer and whitebearded icon Willie Nelson in some sort of restricted movement situation, or enforced home confinement, when he penned his famous 1979 lyrics: “On the road again. Just can’t wait to get on the road again...”? More specifically, the second verse’s: “Goin’ places that I’ve never been. Seein’ things that I may never see again...”?

While these invitingly lullaby-like song words seem equally, if not more so, relevant to thousands across Australia and citizens across the world today, where government lockdowns persist in an attempt to tackle the coronavirus pandemic, to some people such an escapist idea will largely remain just a beautiful ideal. And that’s because, for many, their more pressing health concerns – like cancer treatment, crucial surgeries, CT scans, blood tests for diabetes and treatment for the frequently ensuing kidney problems – means their ability to travel and achieve some quality of life and therapeutic freedom is severely limited or unfortunately - non-existent at all.

Imagine, if you will then, the ability to receive vital medical treatment while on a holiday trip or lifelong coveted journey whereas prior you’d have no chance of getting out on the road again...

Gratuitous segues aside, peak charity for kidney disease, Kidney Health Australia (KHA), is doing its bit to expand the horizons of thousands of Australians with kidney disease who are unable to travel due to their dialysis treatment. And that’s where its custom-modified buses come in to help things.

THE SILENT KILLER While many of the abovementioned medical conditions are often talked about in the mainstream media and the like – yet granted not as much as all those charities connected to them crucially need – arguably kidney disease is even less talked about or known about, and often it’s after it’s all too late.

According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) (last updated 15 July, 2020), an estimated 1.2 million Australians (4.9 per cent of the total population at the time) had diabetes in 2017–18, based on self-reported data.

Additionally, diabetes contributed to 11 per cent of Australian deaths in 2018 (16,700 deaths), which were underlying or associated deaths. Diabetes is also a key contributor to kidney disease, which has a greater impact than many realise, with about 63 people dying every day with kidneyrelated disease. According to Kidney Health Australia, kidney disease affects 1.7 million Australians each year.

When a person’s kidneys stop working, treatment such as haemodialysis or a transplant is needed to sustain life. Currently 13,000 people are receiving dialysis treatment for kidney failure in Australia, including 1,000 children, KHA explains.

BUSES TO THE RESCUE One of the key support programs offered via KHA is the ‘Big Red Kidney Bus’. In its simplest terms, the Big Red Kidney Bus, Above: The mobile dialysis unit gives people undergoing treatment the possibility to go on holiday and still receive their necessary dialysis sessions.

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12/10/21 9:49 am

BODIES

“In its simplest terms, the Big Red Kidney Bus makes holidays possible for people on dialysis.”

Above: The bus has three dialysis stations on board, with six sessions available per day.

Right: KHA sought the services of bus industry restoration expert Royans-Coachworks to refurbish the bus.

Opposite top: The Big Red Kidney Buses are open to all Australians on hospital, satellite or home haemodialysis.

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ROYANS COACHWORKS

“...makes holidays possible for people on dialysis”, the charity explains. Kidney Health Australia’s awardwinning Big Red Kidney Bus program operates with clinical partners in Victoria and New South Wales to provide mobile haemodialysis services in these states, allowing people on dialysis a chance to have a holiday or visit family and friends and still receive their lifesaving treatment, it says.

On average, haemodialysis patients need to have treatment for at least five hours at a time, three days a week – which can be very restricting as they need to stay close to their dialysis unit, KHA general manager, Marketing and Community, Maria O’Sullivan, explained.

“The Big Red Kidney Buses are open to all Australians on hospital, satellite or home haemodialysis. The buses travel across Victoria and News South Wales, where they are located at popular holiday locations for up to six weeks at a time,” O’Sullivan stated.

“The bus features three comfortable chairs – each fully equipped with dialysis machines. It offers up to six sessions per day and patients can book in as many sessions as they require while they are on holiday in that location, without worrying about missing critical appointments.

“The buses are staffed by experienced dialysis nurses and renal technicians from Monash Health in Victoria and Royal North Shore Hospital in New South Wales.”

on ABC magazine Issue 409’s cover – featuring a 2001 Volvo B12R chassis with an NCBC body – KHA sought the services of bus industry restoration expert Coachworks, now part of the Royans heavyvehicle collision-repair group.

Royans Coachworks, based in Brisbane, recently completed the refurbishment of the bus, which is to replace an ageing vehicle that KHA currently has in operation.

The new bus is thanks to the generous support of Toronto Lions Club in NSW and AstraZeneca and it will, “...provide the ultimate in safety and comfort of patients and staff, and we expect the new Queensland bus [the next project] to offer the same level of comfort,” O’Sullivan explained.

AN EXCITING PROJECT Coachworks general manager Scott Isaacs told ABC magazine the ‘Big Red Kidney Bus’ (BRKB)

NEW NSW BUS As one can imagine, custom buses set up to deliver such specialised treatment don’t roll off the showroom floor, so discerning modification needs to take place. For a recent NSW-bound bus, as shown

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project gave Coachworks an opportunity to do, and be involved in, something new and exciting, “...from the amazing concept itself to the relationships with key stakeholders at KHA and RNSH through to the challenges experienced by the production team in bringing the project to fruition.

“The obvious challenge to the project was the Covid disruption, which made it difficult and sometimes impossible for the project management team – represented

by KHA, Royal North Shore Hospital (RNSH) and Coachworks – to physically meet due to lockdown restrictions and border closures. Thanks to technology, this could be overcome.

“The flip side to this was the availability of experienced labour within the business required to complete the project, available in part by the slowdown in our industry during these difficult times.

“The project required input from all areas of the business due to the scope of work required, a core group of people – including coach builders, auto electricians, fitters and painters, along with purchasing staff and sub-contractors - have enjoyed the challenge and look forward to the potential opportunity for future BRKB projects with the experience learnt.

“I am very proud of the way our team have been able to put the project together considering the unique challenges of building a medical-grade bus.

“Equally, it was impressive to see individuals add real value to the project, sharing ideas and information from their personal life experiences that allowed us to better understand the facility from the perspective of the nurses and patients,” Isaacs explained.

SUITABLE OUTCOME In terms of how easy – or not – it is to convert a bus over to be CKD-treatment

ready, Isaacs stated: “The biggest challenge with the project was ensuring that all aspects of the vehicle from the front entry through to the clinical area and storage/stowage spaces were fit for purpose.

“The initial stages of the build required many engineering solutions to be found, so the vehicle structure could be modified to allow for a user-friendly entry, comfortable head room throughout the main cabin, and storage spaces capable of securely stowing consumables and clinical equipment as required.

“The project team enjoyed this challenge and have worked methodically through the build to what I feel is a very suitable outcome.”

So how long was the project?

“It was completed over a 20-week period including two weeks planning and preparing for the build initially and the quality checks and commissioning of the vehicle prior to completion. This is the first BRKB for Coachworks,” Isaacs confirmed, happy to participate in future Big Red Kidney Bus builds, if needed.

HUGE IMPACT So, just how does having such a vehicle like this help impact kidney disease for those involved day to day?

As O’Sullivan explained: “In 2019, almost 1,200 dialysis sessions were conducted on the buses. There is [also] a high demand from our kidney community to have a Big Red Kidney Bus in Queensland to enable people on dialysis to visit the state and take a holiday in some of the beautiful coastal locations.”

“The bus would be available to all 13,000 Australians currently on dialysis and users would be able to book sessions online.

“In year one of operation, we would aim for over 300 sessions of dialysis to take place. Due to the popularity of holidaying in Queensland, we expect awareness and interest levels to grow in subsequent years.

“Thanks to the generous support of Robina Lions Club on the Gold Coast we are close to achieving our target to purchase another bus and refurbish it.

However, we are calling on continued generous supporters to help us close the gap,” O’Sullivan stated.

MORE ABOUT KIDNEY DISEASE Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) affects every organ system in the body and damage accumulates over time. The kidneys are a vital organ and when functioning normally, remove waste and harmful substances from the blood. The kidneys also play a vital role in maintaining blood pressure and electrolyte balance. When there is a problem with kidney function, this balance is disturbed.

Shockingly, a person can lose 90 per cent of their kidney function without experiencing any signs or symptoms of the disease. Kidney disease stages 1 to 3 are usually symptom-free, though busnews.com.au

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COACHWORKS SOLD TO ROYANS

Australasia’s largest transport accidentrepair specialist Royans announced the acquisition of Brisbane-based bus and coach specialist Coachworks at the end of 2020.

With more than 30 years in the business, Coachworks is an industry leader specialising in the repair and refurbishment of buses and coaches with services including: accident repairs, refurbishment, retrofitting, refinishing, mini bus conversions and spare parts sales, it states.

Coachworks’ Scott Isaacs will continue to manage the business and customers can expect to receive the same personal local service from the whole Coachworks team, Royans confirms.

Coachworks is located in Acacia Ridge, Queensland, and now provides new owner Royans with a second Brisbane metro location just 20 minutes away from its Wacol branch, it says.

This now provides customers with three specialised workshops in Brisbane following the construction of a dedicated light / medium truck repair workshop at the Wacol site, in addition to the existing large truck and trailer accident repair workshop, Royans states.

Coachworks occupies 3500m2 of workshop including three spray booths and a smaller parts booth that make up the paint shop; there are three additional workspaces equipped to specialise in accident repairs and refurbishment; manufacturing and

mini bus conversions; and retrofitting and project works as required by the industry. The capability of the business is underpinned by the 55 staff members covering many trades and years of experience specifically in the bus and coach industry, Royans confirms.

EXCITING EXPANSION Commenting on the acquisition, Royans CEO David Church, said: “The partnership with Coachworks is really exciting for Royans as we expand our service offering further into buses and coaches.

“We have long-term experience with bus and coach accident repairs throughout our network, and we can now build on that with the expertise Scott and the Coachworks team bring to Royans.

“We look forward to working with Scott and the team and using this combined knowledge and experience to continue to provide a premium service offering to our customers.”

Church added: “At Royans everything we do is designed to get our customers back on the road fast. The addition of specialised workshops like Coachworks into our network, not only expands our footprint, but adds to the specialised skillset of our workforce.

“This – along with the most experienced staff in the business and the latest in equipment, systems and processes – ensures we can deliver quality repairs with minimal downtime to our customers.”

with high-risk implications. Undiagnosed, kidney disease can rapidly progress to stages 4 and 5 when kidney function will fail, requiring dialysis or a kidney transplant (if suitable) to stay alive.

Those with high blood pressure and diabetes are most at risk!

Data from the Australian Health Survey shows that 10 per cent of all Australian adults have biomedical signs of CKD, which is almost double the rate of diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

Since 2009, admissions for dialysis have increased by 3.9 per cent on average each year. More than 26,000 Australians live with kidney failure (dialysis or kidney transplant), which shortens their life and has a major impact on the quality of life for themselves, their families and community.

Kidney Health Australia’s Evidence Report revealed that dialysis currently accounts for 13 per cent of all hospitalisations Australia-wide, and 34 per cent of all hospitalisations of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians.

CKD is also a major public health problem in Australia, costing the health system an estimated $5.1 billion each year. Many people living with kidney disease face large out-of-pocket costs, too.

Patients receiving care for CKD Stages 3–5 face costs in excess of $900 per quarter on average.

More than half of households reported economic hardship as a result of out-of-pocket costs of CKD. For more information visit: kidney.org.au/ bigredkidneybus

ABOUT KHA Kidney Health Australia is the peak national charity dedicated to helping all Australians to achieve better kidney health and provide vital resources and services to those affected by kidney disease, it states.

The organisation is focused on decreasing the incidence of kidney failure through promoting earlier detection of kidney disease, and funding and supporting research, it explains. The organisation has been operating for more than 50 years and works closely with an extensive network of clinical, corporate and community groups and individuals to improve the care and support for all Australians at risk of, or affected by, kidney disease and other kidney conditions, it adds.

Kidney Health Australia relies on the generosity of individual donors, corporate sponsors and grants to provide these vital resources and programs, it says.

For more information visit the KHA website: https://kidney.org.au Above (box): Coachworks is located in Acacia Ridge, Queensland, and now provides new owner Royans with a second Brisbane metro location just 20 minutes away from its Wacol branch, it says.

Left: Coachworks says that it was an interesting challenge to make the bus work effectively as a dialysis clinic.

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POSITIVELY CHARGED – TRANSDEV PROJECT AURORA Selecting, building and running electric buses dayto-day is one thing, but unless the critical data behind what works and what doesn’t marries up to overall public transport success, you’d have to ask: what was the point? Transdev Australasia’s Aurora Project, in our region, aims to provide that answer.

WORDS FABIAN COTTER IMAGES NICK O’SULLIVAN

I

magine, if you will, that those highschool science classes where someone in your group would slyly fling extra metal stuff into the acid-filled beaker (true story), or eye drop excess ‘liquid x’ into a bubbling conical flask behind your back, didn’t require data collection at all.

Sure the first few ‘snap, crackle and pops’ before the fire alarm goes off (might have been recess bell) while kids scramble for cover under desks screaming ‘Incoming!’ might look and sound impressive at first, but … what would it all mean without ‘data’?

Somewhere in there, the ‘results’ and ‘conclusion’ part of any decent science experiment, trial or test overrides any foolish momentary euphoria of potentially the school closing down due to untold litigation cases from irate parents and maimed teachers and students.

Experiments and trials only exist to test a theory and to draw a conclusion – for the greater good of mankind, one would imagine, or at least to get a Year 9 science grade higher than an ‘F’.

Fortunately, the really clever students move on from the dishevelled pack to enter career fields of discerning and accurate analysis, hopefully achieving a range aims and objectives that overcome problems and maximise performance potential for society.

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particularly with bus route planning and a raft of current environmental and safety requirements that encompass how bus product is purchased and run.

In Australia, one of – if not the first – tests of a metro-route electric bus was spearheaded by Transdev Australasia in Melbourne, whose long-term plan to bring its e-mobility knowledge gleaned from European operations to Australian shores has successfully achieved many of its goals. And, perhaps more importantly, it generated the type of e-bus running data – involving chassis and body choice, charging infrastructure maximisation and

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implementation, battery performance and, in general, safe and timely PAX transportation – that provides insight and ‘learnings’ for the benefit of others during this electric vehicle (EV) transition.

To that end, ABC magazine heard from some of the key players involved in Transdev’s Australasia’s successful Project Aurora e-bus trial and interstate rollout.

AURORA VISION Today, Transdev is one of the largest operators of zero-emissions electric and hydrogen bus fleet, operating more than 1,400 vehicles globally.

The seeds for the company’s zero-emissions ambitions ‘Down Under’ were sown in 2019, following a phone call with Transdev Australasia’s chief engineer Marc Cleave and Volgren Australia.

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“Transdev had pioneered zeroemissions electric and hydrogen fleets internationally, but usage in the Australian and New Zealand market was still in relative infancy.” commenced manufacture of its BYD-chassis prototype electric bus – a modified version of its popular Optimus model. For Transdev and Marc Cleave, now somewhat a veteran of the bus manufacturing scene, the call helped to ignite a vision for a zero-emissions fleet in Australia and New Zealand, helping to kick-start internal ‘Project Aurora’.

Transdev had pioneered zero-emissions electric and hydrogen fleets internationally, it says, but

Above: Transdev is one of the largest operators of electric and hydrogen bus fleet.

Opposite, Below: Knowing how electric vehicles operate in Australian conditions is vital to expansion of the industry.

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“Our goal was to do something truly innovative and having a team of local and international suppliers with proven experience was key.”

BRIGHT SPARKS

Top: Transdev Australasia ran metro-route electric bus trails in Melbourne to generate real-world data.

Above: Volgren’s e-buses have been operating in Melbourne, Brisbane and Sydney.

Opposite: Volgren says that the Optus complies with the highest levels of safety and flammability standards for buses in Australia.

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usage in the Australian and New Zealand market was still in relative infancy.

Transdev Australasia’s chief officer for bus Ian Craig explained: “Domestically, electric buses had been proven in controlled settings, such as airport routes or shuttles, though, at the time, trialling of battery-electric buses on urban-route services was still somewhat a novelty. From our international learnings we knew the value that zero emissions vehicles could add to our local fleets and contracts, which is why we acted quickly in developing Project Aurora.”

Armed with insights about what worked, Transdev quickly set about gathering a group of locally based suppliers to help realise the vision and bring the company’s first electric bus – ‘Aurora 1’ – to Melbourne in November, 2019.

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Being first to market does have its risks, which is why having the right support was imperative for Transdev.

“Our goal was to do something truly innovative and having a team of local and international suppliers with proven experience was key,” said Craig.

Following discussions with Volgren, Transdev placed an order for four new BYD Optimus electric vehicles with the view to introduce new vehicles into its operations in Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne.

“The transport market is rapidly changing and we wanted to be ahead of the market, but at the same time we wanted to use a product that we could trust,” explained Cleave.

“Volgren – rather than modifying the body for an electric chassis – [was] able to install an electric chassis on an existing body, a design that was proven with hundreds of vehicles already on-road.”

The reduced weight added to the appeal of the Volgren Optimus BYD electric bus for Project busnews.com.au

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VOLGREN DOUBLES PERTH BUS AFTERSALES FACILITIES Despite the challenges facing the global bus industry, Volgren was “bucking the trend” when it opened a new 2,000-square metre bus aftersales facility in Perth, the company announced in August.

The new facility – located next to the current manufacturing site in Malaga, WA – will more than double its aftersales capacity, bringing the number of buses that can be worked on simultaneously to 10, Volgren explains.

Volgren’s contract manager for WA Peter McCrory says they are fortunate to be operating with the security of a longterm contract with the Public Transport Authority of Western Australia, which gives them the confidence to keep investing.

“More than 60 people are employed at our Malaga operation and we’re looking to add another five tradespeople into our

aftersales team,” McCrory explained.

“Volgren has always prided itself on what we call local content. And a vital part of that content is labour – in other words, people doing outstanding work in areas like engineering, manufacturing, after-sales support and customer service.

“We’re delighted to be providing new jobs for Western Australians, especially during this difficult period.”

SEGMENT LEADER McCrory says the company’s new aftersales facility will consolidate Volgren’s reputation as a leader in aftersales service within the Australian bus sector.

“It demonstrates our very high level of commitment to customers here in Western Australia,” he explained.

“The new facility is located next to our

existing production, paint and aluminium fabrication facilities, offering efficiency and the ability to share our resources.

“As well as increased capacity we have been able to lay out our factory using lean and 5S philosophy.

“We’re reducing how much our people, material and buses need to move - that reduces costs and improves safety.”

McCrory says Volgren Perth can complete almost any type of bus-body maintenance, refurbishment, smash repair, paint work or electrical work on a wide selection of vehicles.

“It goes without saying that we know Volgren and Marcopolo buses inside out.

But our expertise extends to a variety of buses and manufacturers,” he said.

“We want to be considered a onestop-shop for repair and maintenance for operators in Western Australia no matter the name on the side of their buses.

“We’re really proud of the new facility we want to show it off, to be honest – but we also want to make the flexibility of our service very clear.

“We have two vans and one ute that allow our highly trained mobile technicians to travel across Perth to make repairs at the scene of an accident or breakdown.

“Everything we do in the aftersales area is about getting buses back on the road quicker, and this facility helps us do that better.”

Left: McCrory says the company’s new aftersales facility will consolidate Volgren’s reputation as a leader in aftersales service within the Australian bus sector.

Aurora, with the model having an overall tare weight of 13,000kg.

An added benefit was the use of BYD chassis, drivetrain and circuitry, with Transdev using BYD chassis extensively across its 1,400 strong global zeroemissions fleet.

Volgren’s national sales and marketing manager Yuri Tessari says that Volgren’s e-bus product is the result of hundreds of hours of research and development work combined with a desire to preserve the characteristics that have made its flagship Optimus an industry leader for nearly 10 years.

“The new Optimus e-bus is one of the lightest zero-emission bus bodies in its class,” Tessari said.

“The design delivers longer range, less downtime for charging and Volgren’s unmatched total cost of ownership.

“It is also the safest bus of any kind the company has produced, complying with the highest levels of safety and flammability standards for buses in Australia,” he explained.

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ABB. In 2018, the companies had worked together in helping to electrify a fleet in Harrogate, UK. Both recognised Project Aurora as a potential catalyst for turning the tide on e-mobility here.

ABB Australia’s work on Project Aurora was extensive, as e-mobility segment lead Steve Amor explained: “Together, with our installation partners, we worked to provide an integrated grid-to-plug solution. All aspects of Transdev’s depots were assessed,

so that we could offer a product that not just met their current needs, but future expansion of e-bus fleet[s] as well.”

In order to power the new Volgren BYD Optimus fleet, Transdev opted to install ABB’s Terra depot and opportunity EV chargers, as they had a proven reputation for reliability and compatibility across multiple bus original equipment manufacturers, it explains.

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fleet as part of Project Aurora was significant for the company.

“The first e-bus delivered to Transdev gave us the knowledge and know-how to adjust not only our product, but also our production facilities.”

Transdev Australasia funded three of the five vehicles delivered under Project Aurora. Transport for NSW directly funded two vehicles for Sydney, which Transdev procured on its behalf.

“We wanted to demonstrate zero-emissions technology by investing our own cash in it. It’s here now, and it’s the future now that we want to promote to government and show that public transport can be decarbonised,” Craig added.

NEW KING ARRIVES Above: ABB’s Terra depot and opportunity EV chargers have been installed to charge the vehicles.

Right: BYD chassis, drivetrain and circuitry is used on the new e-buses.

Opposite: Transdev Queensland stakeholder function.

Bottom (Box): Volgren’s Queensland operations manager Clayton Nel says he was excited about beginning a new chapter in the story of Queensland bus manufacture.

System] connectivity and OCPP [Open Charge Point Protocol] compliance, ABB DC fast chargers combine rugged construction with a small infrastructure footprint and a durable design with multi-outlet scalability, making it suitable for compact installations like bus depots, where space and utilisation is at a premium,” added Amor.

SPECIAL DELIVERY Under Project Aurora, Transdev took delivery of its first new Volgren BYD Optimus electric bus and BYD charging infrastructure in November, 2019, with the bus going into service on Melbourne’s streets in December of that year, as part of a trial with Victoria’s Department of Transport.

The remaining four vehicles rolled off Volgren’s Dandenong production line in March, 2021, with one commencing service in Brisbane in April and three going into service in Sydney in May. Gala events were held in Dandenong, Brisbane and Sydney, with local authorities, stakeholders and industry to celebrate the launch of the new fleet.

Tessari says the commissioning of the Transdev

Craig says that while the build and power were critical and logical steps in Project Aurora, the crown jewel for Transdev was the data that its new state-of-the-art fleet provides.

“The transition to a zero-emissions fleet is a significant investment for governments and public transport operators alike,” he explained.

“Recognising this, we want to get the most out of the assets, which is why, for Transdev, the monitoring and analysis of performance and operational data is king.”

Engaging Sydney-based technology provider Orion Network, Cleave and his team at the Transdev Maintenance and Engineering Centre of

VOLGREN QUEENSLAND FIRST E-BUS DUE EARLY 2022 In a strong message of confidence in its Eagle Farm bus-manufacturing outlet, Volgren HQ has confirmed plans to invest in its Queensland operations, which is due to produce its first locally made electric bus early next year, the company has announced.

Backing its workers and local manufacturing in Queensland, Australia’s largest bus body builder will continue building a range of bus bodies in the state. This follows a period of uncertainty after Volgren delivered its final bus to Brisbane City Council in June this year, concluding an agreement that had lasted 12 years and incorporated almost 900 vehicles.

Volgren CEO Thiago Deiro says the company’s investment in its Queensland operation would secure the future of 45 valued staff members and a local supply chain involving 20 local businesses.

“Volgren has spent more than a decade developing a skilled workforce and a world-class manufacturing centre at Eagle Farm. It’s not

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something we ever wanted to walk away from,” he explained.

“Our plans are to invest in our people and our production facilities to meet new levels of demand and ensure the next generation of zero-emission buses can be built locally.

“We have a proud record of supplying high quality buses to Brisbane and today’s announcement is a statement that we intend to extend that record. We are not just here to stay; we are continuing to invest in jobs and to promote local content.”

“Our plans are to double labour capacity in 2022 at our Eagle Farm facility and deliver higher volumes than ever before, including large numbers of electric buses.”

ENORMOUS RELIEF Volgren’s Queensland operations manager Clayton Nel says he was excited about beginning a new chapter in the story of Queensland bus manufacture.

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Excellence in Brisbane, developed TECA – the company’s own proprietary telematics system. Working with Orion Network, TECA was developed as a variable ‘internet-ofthings’ (IoT) for buses, plugging into the vehicle CAN line, utilising 4G and radio communications to provide vehicle data on a real-time dashboard.

“Operating and charging zero-emissions fleet[s] isn’t difficult. The tricky part is making sure that the vehicles and charging infrastructure operate properly, and you implement a charging strategy that extends battery life and vehicle performance. For this, data and, more poignantly, informed analysis of the data, is critical,” Cleave said.

Hamish Duff, founder and director of telematics supplier the Orion Network added: “The innovation we developed with Transdev provides a real-time operational dashboard integrating energy and charging management, fault notifications and operational data.

“Understanding how electric buses are operating is key to successfully integrating [them] into complex transport networks and service provision.”

Operational and performance data and insights collected through Transdev’s TECA is being shared with public transport authorities, to inform their own strategies, the company confirms.

SOLAR FLAIR Not set on delivering electric buses alone, in March, 2020, the Transdev team set about ensuring one of its vehicles was truly ‘zero’ emissions, powered 100 per cent from renewable solar energy collected at the company’s Capalaba depot in Brisbane.

To bring the clean, green vision into

“The decision to retain all staff and continue what we love doing has been met with an enormous feeling of relief and appreciation from our staff and local supply chain,” Nel stated.

“Many of our employees have dedicated a large part of their lives to this company and to building excellent buses.

“They deserve this good news and the assurance that comes from our investment and our expansion.

“What we have planned will give us greater flexibility and the ability to continue delivering for our customers. These customers have high expectations and ever-changing requirements – and our goal has always been to meet and exceed them,” Clayton said.

TECH SHIFT Deiro says the decision to maintain staff and invest in the Eagle Farm facility also provides continuity for the Brisbane Metro project.

“The Brisbane Metro pilot vehicle arrives in Australia early next year. Volgren will play a key role in the acceptance, testing and delivery of the metro vehicle

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“The first e-bus delivered to Transdev gave us the knowledge and know-how to adjust not only our product but also our production facilities.” reality, Transdev engaged Queenslandbased solar supplier REA Global.

REA installed 250 state-of-the-art solar panels and a bank of 15 individual Tesla Powerwall units at the Brisbane depot, capturing up to 658kWh per day, with a total storage capacity of 200kWh. “We have been working closely with the Transdev Engineering team for over two years designing the bespoke solar power and battery storage solution that best matches the charging requirements of the ZEB whilst providing leading efficiency, safety and reliability,” said REA global founder and director Michael Mrowka.

to Brisbane City Council,” he stated.

“Working in close collaboration with our long-term partner Hess, our team in Brisbane will acquire the technical knowledge and operational planning needed to assemble and manufacture future vehicles for Brisbane Metro.”

Deiro says the transition to zeroemission technology was gathering momentum in Australia and that Volgren was well-placed to take advantage of the shift.

The company has already delivered e-buses to New South Wales, Victoria and Queensland. Its Brisbane bus is operated

by Transdev and powered by solar energy sourced at the company’s Capalaba Depot.

“We know that Brisbane City Council is leading the way on Australia’s move to zero-emission public transport,” Deiro added.

“With Eagle Farm secured, and a focus on building world-class zero emission buses, we can confidently respond to tenders in this state and across the country.”

“It is important we provide a solution that produces the most amount of energy possible from the available space in order to leave room for future expansion of the solar system and ZEB fleet.”

CLEANER OUTCOMES To date, Project Aurora has helped to save more than 100 tonnes of CO2 emissions (as heavy as a Blue Whale, the Net says) with the original Aurora 1 bus in Melbourne saving 62 tonnes since 2019. Locally, Transdev has set itself a goal of cutting greenhouse gas emissions in its Australian and NZ operations by 30 per cent by 2030 and the introduction of electric and new zero-emissions bus fleet will be critical to meeting the target.

“Through Project Aurora we have proven that decarbonised transport is a reality.

We look forward to working closely with our partners at Department of Transport Victoria, Transport for NSW and Translink to share data, learnings and insights with the shared goal of driving cleaner, greener, and more comfortable journeys for our customers and drivers,” said Craig.

Now, through Project Aurora, Transdev is aiming to further electrify and explore opportunities for new hydrogen-fuelled vehicles.

“Growing our successful partnerships with innovators, like Volgren, ABB, Orion Network, REA Global and others, will be crucial to delivering emissions reductions in the years ahead,” Craig concluded.

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MAKE: VOLGREN

ADDRESS:

WEB:

221-243 Hammond Road Dandenong VIC 3175 Phone: 03 9791 4255 Email: info@volgren.com.au

www.volgren.com.au

MODEL: OPTIMUS

MAKE: VOLGREN

MODEL: OPTIMUS

SERIES: ELECTRIC – ZERO EMISSION, HYBRID

SERIES: RIGID & ARTICULATED

APPLICATION: CITY – ROUTE BUS

APPLICATION: CITY – ROUTE BUS

VARIATIONS: – 11.9m-12.5m

VARIATIONS: – 10.9m-14.5m, 18m Articulated

BODY SPECIFICATIONS:

BODY SPECIFICATIONS:

Frame Material

Bolted extruded aluminium system

Frame Material

Bolted extruded aluminium system

Body Material

Fibreglass front and rear panels

Body Material

Fibreglass front and rear panels

Seating Capacity (provide range if applicable)

39-44

Seating Capacity (provide range if applicable)

41-49

Passenger Capacity (provide range if applicable)

61-77

Passenger Capacity (provide range if applicable)

80

No. of Doors (provide range if applicable)

1-2

No. of Doors (provide range if applicable)

1-2

SEATING OPTIONS:

SEATING OPTIONS:

Seating Type

Individual or bench type

Seating Type

Individual or bench type

Seating Make/s

Customer choice

Seating Make/s

Customer choice

Seating Model/s

Customer choice

Seating Model/s

Customer choice

Seatbelts (Yes / No)

Optional

Seatbelts (Yes / No)

Optional

BODY DIMENSIONS:

BODY DIMENSIONS: Body Length - metres (provide range if applicable)

11.9m-12.5m

Body Length - metres (provide range if applicable)

10.9m-14.5m & 18m Articulated

Body Width - metres (provide range if applicable)

2.5m

Body Width - metres (provide range if applicable)

2.5m

Body Height -metres (provide range if applicable)

3.4m

Body Height - metres (provide range if applicable)

3.2m

Body Floor Height - mm (provide range if applicable)

N/A

Body Floor Height - mm (provide range if applicable)

NA

STORAGE:

STORAGE: Side bins

No

Side bins

No

Thru bins

No

Thru bins

No

Internal luggage racks

No

Internal luggage racks

No

AIR-CONDITIONING:

AIR-CONDITIONING: Air-Conditioning Standard (Yes / No)

Yes

Air-Conditioning Standard (Yes / No)

Yes

Air-Conditioning Make/s

Customer choice

Air-Conditioning Make/s

Customer choice

Air-Conditioning Model/s

Customer choice

Air-Conditioning Model/s

Customer choice

BODY OPTIONS:

BODY OPTIONS: Wheelchair lift/access

Yes (Manual or electric)

Wheelchair lift access

Yes (Manual or electric)

CD/PA/Radio

Optional

CD/PA/Radio

Optional

DVD/TV

Optional

DVD/TV

Optional

Toilet

No

Toilet

No

Individual reading lights

No

Individual reading lights

No

Individual AC vents

No

Individual AC vents

No

Reverse camera

Optional

Reverse camera

Other (please specify)

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Driver interface screen, Wireless bell pushes, Bonded Double Dark tinted side windows, 4-8 Camera CCTV system, Electric windscreen blinds, Electric heated external mirrors, Driver’s security screen, TS155 compliance Safety System (Suitable), Additional Electric bus options: Illuminated Step Edges, Electric Doors, Consat passenger Information system , WiFi system, USB Charge Ports, 300 km Range, 324 KWH Battery Capacity, 4 Hour Recharge time, 13,000kg Tare Weight

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Other (please specify)

Optional Driver interface screen, Independent LED driving lights, Bonded Double Dark tinted side windows, 4-8 Camera CCTV system, Electric windscreen blinds, Electric heated external mirrors, Wireless bell pushes, Driver’s security screen, TS155 compliance Safety System

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MAKE: VOLGREN

MODEL: ENDURA

ADDRESS:

WEB:

221-243 Hammond Road Dandenong VIC 3175 Phone: 03 9791 4255 Email: info@volgren.com.au

www.volgren.com.au

SERIES: ENDURA

MAKE: MARCOPOLO MODEL: AUDACE

SERIES: AUDACE 1050

APPLICATION: SCHOOL BUS/CHARTER

APPLICATION: SCHOOL BUS/CHARTER/TOURISM

VARIATIONS: – 12.3m-12.5m

VARIATIONS: – 12.3m

BODY SPECIFICATIONS:

BODY SPECIFICATIONS:

Frame Material

Bolted extruded aluminium system

Frame Material

Galvanised steel

Body Material

Fibreglass front and rear panels

Body Material

Seating Capacity (provide range if applicable)

57-61

Fibreglass front and rear panels and aluminium side panels

Passenger Capacity (provide range if applicable)

57-75

Seating Capacity (provide range if applicable)

57 non reclining seats, 53 with reclining seats

No. of Doors (provide range if applicable)

1

Passenger Capacity (provide range if applicable)

57 non reclining seats, 53 with reclining seats

No. of Doors (provide range if applicable)

1

SEATING OPTIONS: Seating Type

Customer choice

Seating Make/s

Customer choice

Seating Model/s

Customer choice

Seatbelts (Yes / No)

Optional

BODY DIMENSIONS:

SEATING OPTIONS: Seating Type

Seat belted coach type seat on non reclining seats and reclining seats

Seating Make/s

Marcopolo (std) or Sege 403X (on reclining seats)

Seating Model/s

Marcopolo (std) or Sege 403X (on reclining seats)

Seatbelts (Yes / No)

Yes

Body Length - metres (provide range if applicable)

12.3m-12.5m

Body Width - metres (provide range if applicable)

2.5m

Body Height -metres (provide range if applicable)

3.5m

BODY DIMENSIONS:

Body Floor Height - mm (provide range if applicable)

1350mm

Body Length - metres (provide range if applicable)

12.3m

Body Width - metres (provide range if applicable)

2.5m

Body Height - metres (provide range if applicable)

3.7m

Body Floor Height - mm (provide range if applicable)

1050mm

STORAGE: Side bins

Yes

Thru bins

Optional

Internal luggage racks

Optional

AIR-CONDITIONING:

STORAGE: Side bins

Yes

Air-Conditioning Standard (Yes / No)

Yes

Thru bins

Yes

Air-Conditioning Make/s

Customer choice

Internal luggage racks

Yes

Air-Conditioning Model/s

Customer choice

BODY OPTIONS:

AIR-CONDITIONING: Air-Conditioning Standard (Yes / No)

Yes

Wheelchair lift/access

Optional

Air-Conditioning Make/s

Spheros

CD/PA/Radio

Optional

Air-Conditioning Model/s

CC 355

DVD/TV

Optional

Toilet

Optional

Individual reading lights

Optional

Individual AC vents

Optional

Reverse camera

Optional

Other (please specify)

Mine specification, Bullbar, Stoneguard, Bonded Double Dark tinted side windows, 4-8 Camera CCTV system, Electric windscreen blinds, Electric heated external mirrors, TS155 compliance safety system (Suitable), TS150 Warning signs and lights for school buses, (Suitable)

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 Other (please specify)

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Yes Marine plywood flooring with heavy duty non-slip floor covering material, Bonded type tinted side windows, Remote control coach door, Electric heated external mirrors, 5 camera CCTV system (including reverse), 16 speaker sound system, Electric windscreen blinds, Saloon window curtains, 53 with reclining seats, Grab handle, Magazine net behind the seats, USB Plugs on the seats

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CHASSIS & BODIES

BLK AUTO

AUSSIE BUS BODY BUILDER PARTNERS WITH BLK AUTO

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NSW mid-north coast’s Express Coach Builders has entered into a commercial agreement with Bonluck bus importer BLK Auto to make zero-emission battery electric and hydrogen fuel-cell buses here in Australia, the companies have announced.

WORDS FABIAN COTTER IMAGES COURTESY BLK AUTO

T

he pairing will usher in a range of zero-to-low emission buses and coaches co-engineered by the BLK and Express design teams specifically for the Aussie public transport and mining resources markets.

BLK Auto – the Australian distributor for BLK (aka Bonluck) buses – has established the alliance with Express as the demand for zero-emission buses ramps up locally, with government and private bus operators starting to switch buying criteria to zero emission, the companies explain.

BLK will provide dedicated battery-electric and hydrogen fuelcell-powered chassis, with Express designing and building specialised bodies, engineered to suit the zeroemission BLK chassis.

According to BLK Auto managing director Jason Pecotic, the collaboration with Express will be a win-win for the two companies, as well as for bus operators in Australia.

“We are very pleased to align with Express to deliver clean, green, emission-free buses tailored for Australian operations and using a dedicated battery or fuel-cellpowered BLK chassis, designed from the start as a zero-emission vehicle – not adapted from a diesel design,” Pecotic said.

“Dale Hancox and his team at Express have tremendous capabilities that will deliver the highest-quality-standard, locally built, zero-emission buses to meet the increasing demand from the bus market.

“Express has impressed with the standard of its engineering and quality workmanship and we are very pleased to be working with them to deliver the best electric buses for the Australian market,” Pecotic explained.

DIVERSIFICATION OPPORTUNITY Express general manager Dale Hancox says the alliance with BLK is an exciting opportunity for the company to diversify and deliver the latest technology zero-emission options alongside traditional diesel bus solutions.

“This will enable us to offer the latest technology clean buses to a market that is seeking solutions in busnews.com.au

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BLK AUTO

“This will enable us to offer the latest technology clean buses to a market that is seeking solutions in a rapidly changing public transport sector.”

Right: BLK Auto body on MAN coach chassis strikes a great pose out on the road.

Opposite: BLK says it is pleased to align with Express to deliver clean, green, emission-free buses tailored for Australian operations.

HYDROGEN COACHES FOR AUSSIE MINING USE

TOUTED AS THE WORLD’S FIRST COACH FLEET OF ITS TYPE, HYZON MOTOR’S ‘ROAD WARRIOR’ HYDROGENPOWERED COACHES PASSED DURABILITY TESTING FOR AN AUSTRALIAN MINING COMPANY, COMPLETING A 15,000-KILOMETRE RUN BEFORE USE IN A HARSH, REMOTE REGION OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA.

Below: A 15,000km durability test of Hyzon Motor’s hydrogen-powered mining transport coaches proved their performance in harsh conditions.

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The achievement keeps delivery of 10 Hyzon coaches on schedule, with testing for Fortescue Metals Group showcasing capabilities of the zeroemission, hydrogen fuel-cell coach up to an 800km range, the company explains.

Hyzon-Fortescue’s collaboration is the latest sign of increasing industrial, commercial support of hydrogen in $87.5 billion global coach-bus market, Hyzon states.

The completed 15,000km durability test of its mining transport coaches was a key tryout before one of the world’s largest iron-ore producers uses the vehicles in the remote WA Pilbara region, the company says.

Hyzon is a leading global supplier of zeroemission, hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles, from which Fortescue Metals Group has contracted for up to 10 of its custom-built coaches for use in the Christmas

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Creek mining hub – where summer temperatures commonly exceed 110 degrees, it explains.

The endurance road test demonstrated the capability, effectiveness and strength of fuel-cell stacks being discharged and recharged repetitively in harsh conditions, Hyzon states.

HARSH LANDSCAPE Hyzon CEO Craig Knight says passing the durability phase – the equivalent of driving more than seven times straight from New York to Miami – demonstrated anew that its vehicles are clean, powerful and uniquely suited for long-haul and high-utilisation, back-to-base transport.

The coaches have a range up to 800km before refuelling, it should be noted.

“We applaud Fortescue Metals Group for its continued commitment to a zero-emission future and we look forward to playing a key role in its transition to hydrogen mobility,” Knight said.

“The Pilbara region – one of the most prolific mining areas of Australia and the world – is a harsh landscape.

“Our coaches can handle the rugged terrain, and hydrogen technology can serve as a viable alternative to traditional commercial mobility in even the toughest parts of the globe,” Knight stated.

At current estimates, Australia has about 2,000 coaches and the Hyzon vehicles will be the first in the country using hydrogen-powered fuel cell technology, Hyzon explains.

The global coach and bus market tops $87.5 billion, it adds.

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12/10/21 1:09 pm

PUBLIC LISTING The Hyzon-Fortescue collaboration is the latest sign of increasing industrial and commercial transition to hydrogen mobility and it comes as New York-based Hyzon readies for a public listing soon on Nasdaq via business combination with Decarbonization Plus Acquisition Corp.

(NASDAQ: DCRB).

Fortescue expressed interest in Hyzon’s proprietary fuel-cell technology using hydrogen gas – for which emissions are limited to water vapour – to replace a fleet of diesel vehicles for transporting workers around remote mining sites, the companies reveal.

The switch is an integral part of the resource company’s plans to reduce emissions, diversify its energy mix and become carbon neutral by 2030, it states.

The Hyzon coaches for Fortescue will mark the world’s first hydrogen-powered coach fleet, it confirms.

a rapidly changing public transport sector, while still meeting demand for traditional diesel buses and coaches,” Hancox stated.

“We are not forgetting our alliances with other chassis makers but forging a new relationship with a chassis manufacturer that brings established green credentials,” he added.

Hancox says Express will receive the first BLK battery electric chassis in the coming weeks and expects to have a fully built zero-emission vehicle

ready before the end of the year.

BLK will soon start delivering a fleet of hydrogen fuel-cell electric buses, which started arriving as Completely Built Up (CBU) vehicles for operation in Western Australia’s Pilbara region.

These will use a similar Hyzon FCEV driveline to the bus chassis that Express will build bodies on in Australia, the companies confirm.

BLK Auto and Express plan to offer hydrogen FCEV buses to the market from early 2022, they state.

ABOUT FORTESCUE A proud West Australian company, Fortescue Metals Group is a global leader in the iron ore industry, recognised for its culture, innovation and industry-leading development of world-class infrastructure and mining assets, it states.

Underpinned by its strong operating performance and balance sheet, Fortescue is reinvesting in the business, returning capital to shareholders and investing in growth, it explains.

Together with Fortescue Future Industries, it is “…focused on supporting the global energy transition, harnessing the world’s renewable energy sources to produce green hydrogen and develop other green industry opportunities.”

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12/10/21 1:14 pm

CHASSIS & BODIES

BUSTECH

“We are proud to be partnering with the Queensland Government to transition our North Lakes depot to 100 per cent battery electric buses.”

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I

n a move touted as a jobs boost, “…from Burleigh to North Lakes,” the $15.6 million state government deal with operator Keolis Downer will also create Queensland’s first fully electric bus depot, in North Lakes, at the home of Hornibrook Bus Lines, it’s been confirmed.

The first of the new buses – vehicles that will use 100 per cent renewable energy and be zero emission, the government states - is due to arrive at the North Lakes depot in September, 2022, ahead of all 16

being ready for service by late 2023.

Transport and Main Roads minister Mark Bailey says the deal signed this month would play an important part in Queensland’s Covid-19 economic recovery plan.

“This deal will see the largest rollout of electric buses in Queensland to date,” Minister Bailey said.

“These buses will be built right here in Queensland, at Bustech on the Gold Coast.

“The Palaszczuk government has made a commitment that, by 2025, busnews.com.au

12/10/21 10:09 am

BUSTECH-MADE E-BUSES FOR QLD Queensland’s electric bus roll out has been “supercharged” following the government commissioning 16 Bustech e-buses – to be made on the Gold Coast – for the state’s first fully electric depot, it was announced recently.

WORDS FABIAN COTTER IMAGES COURTESY BUSTECH every new urban bus we add to the fleet in SEQ will be zero-emissions, by 2030 we’ll roll that out to the rest of the urban fleet – and, of course, we want them to be built here in Queensland.

“This agreement gives us a good head start because the first bus is due to arrive at Hornibrook’s North Lakes depot by the end of next year,” he explained.

LOCAL WIN Deputy premier and member for busnews.com.au

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Murrumba Steven Miles said the agreement was a win for local commuters.

“Hornibrook Bus Lines runs bus services through our northern suburbs like North Lakes, Chermside, Mango Hill, Kallangur and Sandgate, so I can’t wait to see these quieter and cleaner vehicles on our roads,” the deputy premier stated.

“This isn’t just a good deal for commuters and our environment; it’s a boost to our state’s manufacturing sector, too.

“The investment to make the North Lakes depot fully electric and build these buses on the Gold Coast is expected to support 150 jobs over the next two years.

“It’s also expected to bring more than $17 million of estimated value into the economy for local suppliers, contractors, which is the kind of investment we need right now.”

Assistant minister for Hydrogen Development and the 50 per cent Renewable Energy by 2030 Target Lance McCallum says the ABC 2021 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

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CHASSIS & BODIES

“Bustech’s allelectric ZDi is built with the highest local content of any electric bus available on the Australian market.”

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BUSTECH

electric bus rollout was a key part of the state government’s renewable energy commitments.

“By 2030, 50 per cent of our state’s energy will be from renewable sources and this deal with Keolis Downer will play its role in helping Queensland meet that target,” minister McCallum said.

“While this depot and locally built buses will be electric, we are also keen to encourage the use of renewable hydrogen in transport.

“Our investment in renewable hydrogen production as a cleaner, cheaper fuel gives us potential to create jobs, reduce transport emissions and export Queensland’s renewables to the world.

“We want to continue to position Queensland to take advantage of emerging technologies and mobility options.”

Member for Bancroft Chris Whiting congratulated Keolis Downer, which owns Hornibrook Bus Lines, on the zeroemissions initiative.

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“Reducing emissions in our transport sector is a major challenge and we can only be successful through partnerships between government and industry like this one,” Whiting said.

“Once completed, Hornibrook’s North Lakes depot will no longer house diesel buses and will be home to the 16 new electric buses exclusively.

“A full electric depot means reduced noise and no diesel emissions for our community.

“That will save 13,846 tons of carbon emissions over the life of the buses.”

Member for Kurwongbah Shane King says he welcomes electric vehicles moving people around his electorate.

“Hornibrook Bus Lines delivers key services to Petrie Station and the surrounding areas, and I can’t wait to see them go electric,” Kind said.

“When passengers jump on these buses for the first time next year, they’ll be helping to improve the environment, while getting a cleaner, smoother ride. busnews.com.au

12/10/21 10:11 am

“This rollout will also create more jobs for the area, and support local suppliers and contractors, driving our economic recovery from Covid-19.”

BATTERY DENSITY Keolis Downer CEO David Franks says it was a significant moment for the business in Queensland.

“We are proud to be partnering with the Queensland government to transition our North Lakes depot to 100 per cent battery electric buses,” Franks said.

“This means the depot will be using 100 per cent renewable energy, to power a fleet of electric buses, making it a first in Australia and cementing Keolis Downer’s commitment to accelerate the energy transition with large-scale deployments in public transport.

“With this project, we are also encouraging local manufacturing through our partnership with Bustech Group, Australia’s leading bus manufacturer, based in Burleigh Heads. busnews.com.au

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“Bustech Queensland will manufacture the 16 Australian-designed and engineered electric buses in their facility in the Gold Coast, bringing more than $17 million of estimated value into the economy for local suppliers, contractors and local job creation.”

Bustech Group executive chairman Christian Reynolds says the company was excited to be involved in the project.

“Bustech Group is delighted to partner with Keolis Downer to deliver Australiandesigned, engineered and manufactured zero-emission buses with the most energydense battery solution,” Reynolds said.

“Manufactured in Queensland, Bustech’s all-electric ZDi is built with the highest local content of any electric bus available on the Australian market.

“These 16 new electric buses will provide Queensland with cleaner, quieter transport whilst also supporting employment opportunities, the local supply chain, the renewables industry and generating lasting economic benefits,” Reynolds explained.

Above: The deal will create Queensland’s first fully electric bus depot, in North Lakes.

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CHASSIS & BODIES

CHALLENGER

THE PERSONAL TOUCH Challenger Bus and Coach has built a bus for the Aussie industry from having been an operator within the Aussie industry. The result? The Challenger V12 – with a focus on simplicity and safety.

WORDS AND IMAGES PAUL ALDRIDGE

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“A

n opportunity arose to build something I thought would make my life easier long-term and other bus operators’ lives easier longterm,” said Challenger Bus and Coach managing director Greg Sloan.

“Rather than build a bus from the point of view of somebody that just wants to sell one, the Challenger is built from a point of view of somebody who uses one and works on one, and wants to make your life a lot less complicated with repairs. The whole process has been built around the point of view of a bus driver, a bus owner and a bus mechanic.”

Today’s test drive of the V12 is encapsulated in these words from Sloan – a passionate bus man who will tell you “all he knows is buses”.

This is a build that’s come from a bus man, and in his own words ‘built for bus people’. It’s a huge leap from being a fleet operator to a bus builder and one that

Sloan explains came about in part by a life of experience in the industry and part by a chance meeting that set the wheels in motion, resulting in the Challenger V12.

“We’ve had bus fleets all our lives,” explained Sloan, as to how it all got started.

“I’ve been operating up in Far North Queensland and the structure up there for buses was basically for replacement and was based on the Chinese-style build bus. We didn’t find them unreliable, but there were definite quality issues that were prominent.

“I met an engineer from China that had worked in the Australian building and design of buses. He had a project going and I took the project over from him, putting our stamp [on it] of what we thought would work with the buses and that’s how we ended up with the Challenger.

“Initially, we got three buses that were in the build process when we took over, busnews.com.au

12/10/21 10:55 am

so they were at a factory at Ay, China. The Ay factory was government-owned and had issues with operation, so then we sought to change and make the new models. We sourced a builder in Guangdong Provence, GT Bus Company. They build buses for ADL, companies in Israel, Hong Kong and the New Zealand market for ADL, which includes electric buses and contract builds.

They’re basically a contract builder rather than build their own products and they only build for the export market.”

FROM CONCEPTION TO BUILD The road from conception to having a vehicle viable for the market is a complicated process.

“We went with the basic design of what we wanted and then worked with our engineers and their engineers to come up with exactly what we needed with all the equipment that we wanted,” said Sloan.

“Number one: figuring out what the vehicle is going to be used for and what its place is in the market.

“The 12-metre [bus] was basically built from the needs of my company, that’s the type bus we use – a 12.5m, 57-seat school bus – and we made it simple. I tried to make it well built, simple to work on, reliable and built for long life.”

It took about 12 months from start of concept to starting to build, he says.

“We have our engineer there overseeing the process as it goes along. When I was able to travel, I was there usually about a week every month, just to go and make sure that any issues I could help resolve and see first-hand what needed to be done.”

The Challenger ideology is simplicity achieved by standardising componentry between the different vehicles, Sloan explains.

“The concept of the 10-metre Challenger was to develop a bus that’s basically the same as the 12-metre, just smaller. We’ve used a different front end and a different rear end as a price point because it’s slightly lighter and basically the windscreens and a lot of the parts between the two buses are identical, so if you have both of them in your fleet you don’t really need to change too much. They’re both Allison, both Cummins, different size motors, but again pretty much most

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“At the moment, we’re developing an 8-metre bus with about 25 to 30 seats that could be used as a school bus [or] a day coach.”

Above: Grammer air ride seat with dual arm rests.

Below: The alloy bullbar and stone guard are standard inclusions.

Wing mirrors are remote controlled and heated.

components go between the two buses,” making an operator’s life easier, said Sloan.

OPPORTUNITY CALLS Sloan’s years in fleet operations has given him the ideal knowledge to understand what operators need and, if he sees a gap in the market, the Challenger family will continue to expand, he says.

“At the moment, we’re developing an 8-metre bus with about 25 to 30 seats that could be used as a school bus [or] a day coach and, basically, I want the same features and the same reliable running gear with great parts accessibility with OEM back-up. I certainly have a need for that size bus in my fleet and I know other people do.

“I know that the market’s a bit slim on choice in this category and I believe there’s an opportunity there to build something into that, that’s how we do it.

“I believe, just through our experience of operating, that we can come up with a vehicle that would fit the gap. I listen to other people in the industry, speak to other people, read industry magazines and whatever, just to get the feel for what they’re looking for. It’s going to take a while to develop and there will be of course trial and error before we strike on something.”

On the Challenger website, there is a huge focus on what the company can promise operators after they’ve purchased a Challenger Bus. Asked what Challenger does that sets them apart, Sloan says, first of all, when a customer calls the business, “they actually speak to me”.

“Anything we need to do, we do instantly and our biggest concern is having an operator’s vehicle on the road again because I understand the importance of this,” he continued.

“I offer them reasonably priced parts basically to ensure they’re not left feeling forgotten once they have actually purchased a bus from us. If they need you and they ring, you deal with them straight away and that’s why I believe our focus to ABC 2021 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

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CHASSIS & BODIES

Specs MAKE: Challenger Bus MODEL: V12 ENGINE: Cummins ISL 360 (Euro 5); Power – 360hp, Torque – 1,550Nm/1,100-1,500 rpm

CHALLENGER

Above: Seats come from Fansia and are made and fitted in China.

Below: Cummins ISL 8.9 litre 360 horsepower (268kW) Euro 5 engine with 1,550Nm torque.

Opposite top: The Challenger comes with a maintenance kit for the air tanks, located in the luggage areas and handy for remote maintenance if needed.

FUEL CAPACITY: 400L TRANSMISSION: Allison T390R six-speed

support the people who buy buses from us is a real point of difference.”

BRAKES: Disc BODY DIMENSIONS: Length – 12.36m, Width – 2.5m SEATING: Up to 83 AIR CONDITIONING: Thermo King SUSPENSION: Front – 2x independent air suspension; Rear – 4x air spring controlled electronic

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DRIVE TRAIN With most aspects of the Challenger, Sloan’s own experience played a huge role in bus componentry choice.

The drive train, for example, was based on what he knows and trusts, explaining he has run this style of drive trains on his own vehicles for many years.

“My own fleet’s mainly Cummins,” he added.

“The independent suspension chosen is ZF

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because it’s worldwide, it’s well known and well supported. Thermo King air conditioner is a proven product and well supported in Australia.

All the running gear we’ve put in it is selected on the basis that it’s proven to be reliable and well accepted in the industry. The Wabco braking system was chosen by the engineers; it’s pretty complicated how the compliance and technical side works in that part of the vehicle, so that was left to the experts.”

Mobileye is one of the safety systems that comes as standard with the Challenger, which Sloan explained is claimed to reduce accidents by up to 40 per cent.

“I actually got to go for a drive on a vehicle in a government-run factory in China and if you’ve ever been to China it’s so busy and the roads are crazy.

I was impressed by how the system worked. It’s well supported and there’s an Australian company doing it; it’s a worldwide accepted safety system,” added Sloan.

We like to ask builders what they are most proud of with their end product as, for most, the process has usually had a huge personal input – often based on industry knowledge, customer feedback and sometimes a history of industry experience.

Sloan’s reply summed up his approach: “What am I proud of? I think it’s [the] simplistic concept of the vehicle, to reduce maintenance costs. We’ve tried to keep it as simple as we can, but include features that make it desirable.”

TEST DRIVE The Challenger V12 externally is a good-looking coach, but behind the façade there are a lot of value-added features that impressively come as standard.

Upon approach the alloy bullbar and stone guard are the first of standard inclusions that traditionally are added extras. The remote door opener too is standard.

The engine is a Cummins ISL 8.9-litre with 360hp (268kW) and 1,550Nm (Euro 5). In our opinion, a bus or coach that has way more power than needed is always a huge positive for driver fatigue as the power does the work and it also has the added benefit of better fuel efficiency, as you don’t need to be pushing to get the bus to do what’s needed. As soon as you take off, the power is there and it’s the sort of eat-hills power that is great to drive out on the open roads.

The engine is coupled with an Allison six-speed transmission and ZF suspension. Sloan made the drive train choices based on his experience as both driver and operator – and it would be hard for anyone to fault this combination. Instantly, it’s a pleasure underfoot. We didn’t have an opportunity to take it onto any country roads, but it loved the highway.

The seating choice is from a Spanish company called Fansia, though they are made, assembled and fitted in China. Fansia was chosen because it busnews.com.au

12/10/21 11:00 am

“Anything we need to do, we do instantly and our biggest concern is having an operator’s vehicle on the road again because I understand the importance of this.” operates in China and can be fitted there so a complete vehicle can arrive in Australia ready to go. Operators can also choose the seating brand they want so, although the Challenger can come ready to roll, operators can still customise. In this test vehicle it has 57 fixed velour-covered seats, which are certainly comfortable.

The driver’s seat is a Grammer air-ride seat and also certainly comfortable. As soon as you hit that seat you know you’re in a luxury coach. It comes with dual armrests – another good driver comfort.

There are also windscreen blinds made wider to ensure a big reduction in glare and drivers have their own ducted air conditioning.

Safety features galore are included with the Challenger V12, future proofing the vehicle for changing standards and taking the responsibility of “carrying precious cargo” very seriously.

The Mobileye collision warning system has 360-degree cameras with proximity sensors, blind spot monitoring and data recording. The warning system ensures the driver is aware at all times. Until you drive a fully loaded vehicle it is hard to appreciate the responsibility drivers have, so tools that busnews.com.au

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make us better and safer drivers are a win-win for everyone – drivers, operators and passengers.

The system shows your speed, your proximity to vehicles, tailgating, your lane departure; it has warnings that beep and then puts the warning up in a screen on the dash, and it just basically keeps the driver alert of what’s going on around them.

All vision from inside the bus is great and the mirrors are remote controlled and heated. Large, flat expanses of glass really make it feel spacious inside for passengers; the window tint is built into the glass at the factory and, although it was an overcast day, there was lots of glare, but inside was really comfortable.

Another notable feature are the dual filling tanks, with one on each side of the bus, so there’s no ‘pulling into the incorrect side of a service station’; just fill at the first available bowser. It also has a big 400-litre capacity tank.

One handy feature rarely seen as standard is that each Challenger bus comes supplied with an airline, an air jack, three quarter impact wrench, basic tool kit and a socket kit. So, if you need it, there are

air fittings in the side luggage bins where the air tanks are. You just put the fitting straight into the air tanks, plug your line in, put the jack underneath and then bang with the gun.

Sloan explains that he added these components because it’s something, as an operator, that he has in all his own buses.

This is a perfect addition for small operators with limited manpower, remote and regional drivers, and any bus that’s a long way from home, in order to perform simple tasks to keep the bus on the road.

Yes, all drivers won’t be able to complete simple bus maintenance but, when drivers are going on long hauls in remote areas, having the tools to complete maintenance as a driver would give good peace of mind.

Overall, you can’t help be impressed by the standard safety features and inclusions on this bus, but standouts in terms of driving it would have to be the power and the turning circle letting you move this bus around like you wouldn’t expect to.

The excellent manoeuvrability would make this a great city bus as well as a regional driver, for sure.

As soon as you get behind the wheel you can feel this is a ‘driver’s bus’.

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CHASSIS & BODIES

MAKE: CHALLENGER

CHALLENGER

ADDRESS:

WEB:

176 Hall Street, Spotswood 3015 Victoria Contact Greg Sloan Phone 0418 314 642

www.challengerbusandcoach.com.au EMAIL:

greg@challengerbusandcoach.com.au

MODEL: V10

APPLICATION: SCHOOL/CHARTER/DAY TOUR CHASSIS DIMENSIONS:

BODY DIMENSIONS:

SEATING:

Chassis Length (metres)

NA

Body Length (metres)

10.5

Seating Capacity

Up to 62

Chassis Wheelbase (mm)

5200

Body Width (metres)

2.5

Passenger Capacity

Up to 45

Chassis Front Overhang (mm)

2200

Fixed Coach

Fixed Coach

Chassis Rear Overhang (mm)

3100

Chassis Turning Circle Diameter (metres)

19

ENGINE:

Body Height (metres)

3.6

Body Floor Height (mm) 335

SEATING OPTIONS:

Body Weight (kg)

Seating Make

Fainsa / Styleride

Seating Model

Various

Seatbelts

Yes

Seat layout

as per customer request

15,500 (Gross)

BODY OPTIONS:

Make / Model

Cummins ISB6.7e5 300

Configuration

Wheelchair Lift Access

Yes

6.7L

Power (HP / kW)

300/NA

CD/PA/Radio

Yes

Torque (Nm)

1045Nm/2000 RPM

DVD/TV

Yes

AXLES:

107/124

Toilet

Yes

Compression Ratio

17.3:1

Yes

Front Make / Model / Desc.

JB independent

Fuel Capacity (litres)

400

Individual Reading Lights

Oil Capacity (litres)

27

Yes

Rear Make / Model / Desc.

Meritor

Individual AC Vents

Emissions

Euro 5

Reverse Camera

Yes

STORAGE:

Additional options

On request

All types

Through Bin

Pressurised bins

Yes

Bore and Stroke

TRANSMISSION: Auto Trans Make/ Model/ Description

Allison T350R 6 Speed

Manual Trans Make/ Model/ Description

N/A

SUSPENSION: Type – Front

Two independent air suspension

Type – Rear

Four air spring controlled electronic

AIR-CONDITIONING: AC Std

Yes

AC Make

Thermo King

AC Model CS1000

BRAKES: Service Brakes

Disc

Retarding Brake System

Yes

EBS

Yes

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ADDRESS:

WEB:

176 Hall Street, Spotswood 3015 Victoria Contact Greg Sloan Phone 0418 314 642

www.challengerbusandcoach.com.au EMAIL:

greg@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:

SEATING:

Chassis Length (metres)

NA

Body Length (metres)

12.36

Seating Capacity

Up to 83

Chassis Wheelbase (mm)

6550

Body Width (metres)

2.5

Passenger Capacity

Up to 57

Chassis Front Overhang (mm)

3395

Fixed Coach

Fixed Coach

Chassis Rear Overhang (mm)

2415

Chassis Turning Circle Diameter (metres)

22

ENGINE:

Body Height (metres)

3.6

Body Floor Height (mm) 335

SEATING OPTIONS:

Body Weight (kg)

Seating Make

Fainsa / Styleride

Seating Model

Various

Seatbelts

Yes

Seat layout

as per customer request

18,000 (Gross)

BODY OPTIONS:

Make / Model

Cummins ISL360

Configuration

Wheelchair Lift Access

Yes

8.9L

Power (HP / kW)

360/NA

CD/PA/Radio

Yes

Torque (Nm)

1550Nm/1100-1500 RPM

DVD/TV

Yes

AXLES:

114/145

Toilet

Yes

Compression Ratio

16.6:1

Yes

Front Make / Model / Desc.

ZF RL 75E

Fuel Capacity (litres)

400L

Individual Reading Lights

Oil Capacity (litres)

27 litres

Yes

Rear Make / Model / Desc.

ZF A132

Individual AC Vents

Emissions

Euro 5

Reverse Camera

Yes

STORAGE:

Additional options

On request

All types

Through Bin

Pressurised bins

Yes

Bore and Stroke

TRANSMISSION: Auto Trans Make/ Model/ Description

Allison T390R 6 Speed

Manual Trans Make/ Model/ Description

N/A

SUSPENSION: Type – Front

Two independent air suspension

Type – Rear

Four air spring controlled electronic

AIR-CONDITIONING: AC Std

Yes

AC Make

Thermo King

AC Model CS1100

BRAKES: Service Brakes

Disc

Retarding Brake System

Yes

EBS

Yes

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DAIMLER

DRIVIN’ THE DREAM – KERTON INVESTMENTS Trevor Kerton runs a small school bus operator service in East Gippsland, Victoria. Coming from a farming background, Kerton’s move into the bus industry was a decision made out of a yearning for a new pace of life.

He truly found his calling here.

WORDS ANJALI BEHL IMAGES GRAEME NEANDER

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E

very profession has good days and bad.

Some days we are chuffed just to do our job and other days perhaps not so much and keep sneaking peeks at the clock to see if it is time to go home yet. How refreshing it is to meet someone whose love and enthusiasm for their profession is borderline unreal.

Trevor Kerton is one such person. He is the owner and operator of Kerton Investments, a small bus and charter business based in Bairnsdale in the Gippsland Lakes region of Victoria.

One of the things that came across many times during our interview was Kerton’s genuine admiration of people involved in the bus industry. Anyone who chats with him for more than a minute about the bus industry will be able to feel his passion.

Kerton has been running his business since 2018, having purchased two school contracts from a local bus operator at the time. He has been loving every part of this job ever since, he says.

It was quite a change of pace for Kerton when he moved into this profession, having worked in the vegetable farming industry for more than 25 years.

After deciding to move on from the farming sector, he started driving buses part-time for a while for some local operators before applying for accreditation and setting up his own business, he explains.

He currently operates school and charter work out of the Gippsland region, sharing the driving duties with another casual driver while managing all the operational and administration side of affairs by himself. He has three back-up drivers for support and uses the services of two local mechanics for all workshop needs.

“I entered the bus industry based on lifestyle choice after coming from a roundthe-clock physically laborious profession,” Kerton explained.

“I knew some people in the bus and coach industry before I started and, from what I was told, I thought it was an extremely wonderful sector to be involved in.

“The vegetable growing industry is without a doubt a great industry to work in, but my own experience in the bus industry takes the words ‘loving your work’ to a whole new world.

I couldn’t be happier.

“It is such a joy to see the camaraderie of people and how everyone here is helping each other out. The hospitality and friendliness of people involved – from chassis makers, to salesmen, to mechanics – is just fantastic.”

THE FLEET Kerton currently has three buses in his fleet, including a shiny new Mercedes-Benz busnews.com.au

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CHASSIS & BODIES

“The people you meet, the people you deal with on a day-today basis, everyone is so welcoming and helpful in so many ways.”

DAIMLER

OC 500RF with an Irizar coach body.

The Benz-Irizar is an upgrade on Kerton’s ongoing Public Transport Victoria (PTV) contract.

Kerton took delivery of the new luxury coach in March and has been thoroughly impressed with its performance.

“My experience with Brad Schultz at Irizar Asia Pacific and Paul Kennedy at Mercedes-Benz Australia was exceptional,” he said.

“From when we ordered the bus right through to delivery, their service and feedback was fantastic. Moreover, the handling of this bus and the smoothness of the ride is extraordinarily good. It is such a pleasure to drive it.”

The Euro 5 Mercedes-Benz OM 457, sixcylinder engine delivers 264kW and 1,600Nm. The ZF-Servocom 8098 steering and the ZF Ecolife transmission combines to provide a very smooth drive, Kerton added.

This Irizar body and Benz chassis make sure driver comfort is key, with features like adjustable seat and steering wheel, driver armrests, electric window and blinds, a microphone attached to the seat, reverse camera, internal view camera, a dashboard USB, a fridge in the dash and dual-zone air conditioning for optimum driver and passenger comfort.

The Italian leather Sege 403X passenger seats have a recline option and two USB ports and a phone pocket at the back of each seat.

Meanwhile, safety features in the chassis include radar advanced emergency braking, lane departure warning, anti-lock braking system, traction control system, electronic braking system with brake assist, electronic stability programme and a fire-detection system in the engine compartment.

Above: Kerton Investments has been operating since 2018.

Opposite from Top: The ZF-Servocom 8098 steering and the ZF EcoLife transmission combine to provide a very smooth drive; The Italian leather Sege 403X passenger seats have a recline option and two USB ports.

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OUT AND ABOUT The Benz and other buses do school runs between Bairnsdale, Lakes Entrance, Nowa Nowa and Lake Tyres Beach. The Benz goes to Bairnsdale each morning and stays there during the day before coming back to Lakes Entrance in the evening, he explains.

Meanwhile, the other buses service school runs in Lakes Entrance and then go to Nowa Nowa and the Lake Tyres Beach region. Kerton leases a local yard in Lakes Entrance for overnight storage of buses. For the Benz, he uses a Bairnsdalebased operator’s depot between daily school runs, he confirms.

Kerton’s day starts early, leaving the Bairnsdale depot around 6.30am and commencing school runs from 7.30am.

MERCEDES-BENZ ELECTRIC BUS CHASSIS: 2022 IN AUSTRALIA Daimler’s electro-mobility plans for the Southern Hemisphere have taken a massive – and long anticipated – leap forward with Mercedes-Benz announcing it is importing an e-bus chassis in 2022 for the Australian bus market.

Announced at a time many new and established global OEMs are showing keen interest to bring in tailored electric bus product into Australia, the low-floor zeroemissions Mercedes-Benz electric city bus chassis will be available here in the last quarter of next year, MB confirms.

The Mercedes-Benz electric city bus chassis is suitable for locally made bus bodies up to 13.2 metres in length, it clarifies.

The electric bus chassis development was led by and recently revealed by Mercedes-Benz Left: Prototype buses using the new electric chassis are currently being tested in Germany and Brazil, MB Australia confirms.

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in Brazil, where it will be built for the Latin America, Europe and Oceania markets, it says.

With the electric motor integrated into the rear axle, the electric chassis is equipped with an EBS electronic braking and energy recovery system, MB explains.

Prototype buses using the new electric chassis are currently being tested in Germany and Brazil, MB Australia confirms.

BRAND TRUST The Australian-specification electric city bus chassis will have a range of more than 300km and can be fully charged in little more than three hours, Mercedes-Benz states.

Daimler Truck and Bus Australia Pacific president and CEO Daniel Whitehead says Australian customers will welcome an electric bus chassis from a brand they can trust.

“Daimler is proud to offer customers advanced electric solutions for trucks and buses that have been properly developed, tried and tested in order to deliver the class-leading

quality and performance expected from our trusted brands,” he said.

“Our customers are excited about a Mercedes-Benz bus that emits zero local emissions and is perfect for operation both in the regions and cities and suburbs with high pedestrian density. We know the Mercedes-Benz electric city bus chassis will deliver exactly what they have asked for,” Whitehead added.

INTEGRATION SUPPORT As part of its electric bus chassis package, Mercedes-Benz will also offer a consultancy service to help customers with everything required to integrate the new vehicles into their existing fleet including energy supply, battery recharge infrastructure and fleet operation planning, the company explains.

The electric bus chassis product will also be supported by, “…the vast Mercedes-Benz dealership network that spans the country,” it adds.

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CHASSIS & BODIES

DAIMLER

“I feel I can control my own destiny and I also love the flexibility of time management.”

After the morning drop-offs are finished, he washes and cleans the buses before coming back to the office for some admin work. The afternoon school runs and drop-offs finish before 5pm. After locking the buses in the yard, the team heads home.

“I absolutely love being part of this industry,” he said.

“The people you meet, the people you deal with on a day-to-day basis, everyone is so welcoming and helpful in so many ways.

Looking at other transport sectors, I think the bus and coach industry is not as cut-throat and people are more united and very obliging. Being a business owner and operator I feel I can control my own destiny and I also love the flexibility of time management.”

Top: The Euro 5 MercedesBenz OM 457, sixcylinder engine delivers 354hp (264kW) and 1,600Nm. Above: The Benz-Irizar is an upgrade on Kerton’s ongoing Public Transport Victoria (PTV) contract.

Right: The brand new Mercedes-Benz OC 500RF chassis with an Irizar i6 body.

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COVID IMPACT Kerton is one of the lucky operators whose business managed to remain largely unaffected by the rolling lockdowns and ever-changing restrictions due to Covid-19. Being a school bus operator in a regional setting means his buses have to operate every day, he states.

“It has been a challenge in the sense that the dynamics are changing frequently and that’s perhaps the biggest thing but, overall, we haven’t missed a beat.

“We still run as normal every school day, whether there are kids there or not because we have to run services for emergency workers and children who are deemed vulnerable or would be otherwise unsupervised at home.

“So, the dynamics have changed now but it is still business as usual. We, of course, have to do a bit more cleaning and sanitisation of buses during these times but that is not a big deal because, at the end of the day, we are providing an essential service to many and we have a job to go to, so we’re really lucky in that.”

Kerton has a few plans up his sleeve for the future growth of the business but, for now, he is content just focusing on the school bus side of things. Expanding services will come at some stage but not until it seems like a sustainable move for the business, he admitted.

“At the moment the heart is set at getting more school bus contracts when they become available. It is certainly the biggest priority for this year.” busnews.com.au

12/10/21 11:21 am

SALES INQUIRIES

PHONE (HEAD OFFICE): 1800 033 557

National: Grant Simmonds – 0408 172 157, Jon Tozer – 0407 048 097 NSW & ACT: Paul Weber – 0418 494 881, Iain Dorward – 0466 415 026 QLD & NT: Dion Keating – 0400 640 072 WA, VIC, SA & TAS: Paul Kennedy – 0412 352 761

ADDRESS: 44 Lexia Place, Mulgrave VIC 3170 WEB: www.mercedes-benz-bus.com/en_AU/home EMAIL: mbbus@daimler.com

MAKE: MERCEDES-BENZ

MODEL: O 500RS

MAKE: MERCEDES-BENZ

MODEL: 0500 RSD

APPLICATION: CHARTER - LONG DISTANCE, SCHOOL

APPLICATION: CHARTER - LONG DISTANCE

DIMENSIONS:

DIMENSIONS:

Length (metres)

12.5

Length (metres)

12.5 to 14.5

Wheelbase (mm)

3000 (buggy format)

Wheelbase (mm)

3000 (transport)

Front Overhang (mm)

2570

Front Overhang (mm)

2200 (2570 opt)

Rear Overhang (mm)

3280

Rear Overhang (mm)

2825

Turning Circle Diameter (m)

20.6 (wall to wall at overall length of 12.5)

Turning Circle Diameter (m)

26.3 (wall to wall at overall length of 14.5)

ENGINE:

ENGINE: Make/Model

Mercedes Benz/OM457LA

Make/Model

Mercedes Benz/OM457LA

Configuration

6 cylinders in line

Configuration

6 cylinders in line

Power (hp/kW)

354/260 (Opt: 428hp)

Power (hp/kW)

354/260 (Opt: 408hp & 428hp)

Torque (Nm)

1600 (Opt: 2100hp)

Torque (Nm)

1600 (Opt: 1900, 2100)

Oil Capacity (litres)

28

Oil Capacity (litres)

28

FUEL SOURCE / CAPACITY:

FUEL SOURCE / CAPACITY:

Type

Diesel

Type

Diesel

Capacity (litres)

Various fuel & 25L Adblue tank

Capacity (litres)

Various Fuel & 35L Adblue tank

TRANSMISSION:

TRANSMISSION: Auto Model / Type

ZF Ecolife or Mercedes-Benz GO240 automated manual ZF: 6 speed with torque converter and retarder MB: 8-speed with Voith retarder

AXLES: Type – Front

Mercedes-Benz/V0 4/40 DCL-7.1/Forged steel ‘I’ beam 7100kg

Type – Rear

Mercedes-Benz/RO 440/Rigid, single ratio hypoid axle.

12,500kg capacity

SUSPENSION: Type – Front

Type – Rear

Rigid I-Beam. Electronic Air Suspension (ECAS) with Electronic Level Control (ENR), 2 air bellows , 4 telescopic double acting shock absorbers and stabilizer bar Live axle. Electronic Air Suspension (ECAS) with Electronic Level Control (ENR), 4 air bellows, 4 telescopic double acting shock absorbers and stabilizer bar

BRAKES:

Auto Model / Type

OM457: Mercedes-Benz GO240-8, 8 speed automated manual

AXLES: Type – Front

Mercedes-Benz/VO 4/40 DCL-7.1/Forged steel ‘I’ beam, 7100kg

Type – Rear

Mercedes-Benz/RO 440/Rigid, single ratio hypoid axle. 12500 kg capacity.

Tag axle: Actively steered, maximum design capacity 6000kg

SUSPENSION: Type – Front

Rigid I-Beam electronic air suspension (ECAS) with Electronic Level Control (ENR), 2 air bellows, 4 telescopic double acting shock absorbers and stabilizer bar

Type – Rear

Live axle. Electronic air suspension (ECAS) with Electronic Level Control (ENR), 4 air bellows, 4 telescopic double acting shock absorbers and stabilizer bar. Tag axle Suspension: Air suspension with 2 air bellows, 2 double acting shock absorbers

BRAKES: Service Brakes

Ventilated disc brakes, ABS, EBS, ASR, ESP, AEBS

Service Brakes

Ventilated disc brakes, ABS, EBS, ASR, ESP, AEBS

Retarding Brake System

Engine/Trans

Retarding Brake System

Engine/Trans

EBS

Yes

EBS

Yes

ELECTRONIC SYSTEM:

ELECTRONIC SYSTEM: Alternator

2 x 28V/140A

Alternator

2x 28V/140A

Starter

24V/6.2kW

Starter

24V/6.2kW

Batteries

170Ah

Batteries

2x 12V/200Ah

WHEELS & TYRES: Type

10 stud alloy

Rim Size

8.25 x 22.5

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WHEELS & TYRES: Type

10 stud Alloy

Rim Size

8.25 x 22.5

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CHASSIS

DAIMLER

SALES INQUIRIES

PHONE (HEAD OFFICE): 1800 033 557

National: Grant Simmonds – 0408 172 157, Jon Tozer – 0407 048 097 NSW & ACT: Paul Weber – 0418 494 881, Iain Dorward – 0466 415 026 QLD & NT: Dion Keating – 0400 640 072 WA, VIC, SA & TAS: Paul Kennedy – 0412 352 761

ADDRESS: 44 Lexia Place, Mulgrave VIC 3170 WEB: www.mercedes-benz-bus.com/en_AU/home EMAIL: mbbus@daimler.com

MAKE: MERCEDES-BENZ

MODEL: OC 500LE EURO 6

MAKE: MERCEDES-BENZ

MODEL: OC 500RF

APPLICATION: CITY - ROUTE

APPLICATION: CHARTER - LONG DISTANCE, SCHOOL

DIMENSIONS:

DIMENSIONS:

Length (metres)

12.5

Length (metres)

12.5

Wheelbase (mm)

3000 (buggy format)

Wheelbase (mm)

3000 (buggy format)

Front Overhang (mm)

2570

Front Overhang (mm)

2570 (2100 Opt)

Rear Overhang (mm)

3200

Rear Overhang (mm)

3300

Turning Circle Diameter (m)

23.4 (wall to wall at overall length of 12)

Turning Circle Diameter (m)

21.6 (wall to wall at overall length of 12.5)

ENGINE:

ENGINE:

Make/Model

Mercedes Benz/OM936LA

Make/Model

Mercedes Benz/OM457LA

Configuration

6 cylinders in line

Configuration

6 cylinders in line

Power (hp/kW)

300/220

Power (hp/kW)

354/260 (Opt: 430hp)

Torque (Nm)

1200

Torque (Nm)

1600 (Opt: 2100)

Oil Capacity (litres)

23

Oil Capacity (litres)

28

FUEL SOURCE / CAPACITY:

FUEL SOURCE / CAPACITY:

Type

Diesel

Type

Diesel

Capacity (litres)

280L Fuel & 45L Adblue tank

Capacity (litres)

415L Fuel & 45L Adblue tank

TRANSMISSION: Auto Model / Type

TRANSMISSION: ZF or Voith/Ecolife or DIWA 6 ZF: 6 speed with lock up torque converter & retarder.

Voith: 4 speed with integrated retarder and electronic control

AXLES: Type – Front

Mercedes-Benz/V0 4/39 CL-7.5/Forged steel ‘I’ beam 7100kg

Type – Rear

Mercedes-Benz/RO 440/Rigid, single ratio hypoid axle 12500kg

Auto Model / Type

ZF/Ecolife/6 speed with torque converter & retarder

AXLES: Type – Front

ZF/RL75E/Upper & lower suspension arms, 7500kg capacity

Type – Rear

Mercedes-Benz/RO 440/Rigid, single ratio hypoid axle. 12500 kg capacity

SUSPENSION:

SUSPENSION: Type – Front

Rigid I-Beam. Electronic air suspension (ECAS) with Electronic Level Control (ENR), 2 air bellows , 2 telescopic double acting shock absorbers and stabilizer bar

Type – Rear

Live axle. Electronic air suspension (ECAS) with 4 air bellows, 4 telescopic double acting shock absorbers and stabilizer bar

BRAKES:

Type – Front

Independent electronic air suspension (ECAS) with Electronic Level Control (ENR), 2 air bellows, 2 telescopic double acting shock absorbers and stabilizer bar

Type – Rear

Live axle. Electronic air suspension (ECAS) with Electronic Level Control (ENR), 4 air bellows, 4 telescopic double acting shock absorbers and stabilizer bar

BRAKES:

Service Brakes

Ventilated disc brakes, ABS, EBS, ASR, ESP

Service Brakes

Ventilated disc brakes, ABS, EBS, ASR, ESP, AEBS, LDWS

Retarding Brake System

Engine/Trans

Retarding Brake System

Engine/Trans

EBS

Yes

EBS

Yes

ELECTRONIC SYSTEM:

ELECTRONIC SYSTEM:

Alternator

3x 28V/150A

Alternator

3x 28V/150A

Starter

24V/6.2kW

Starter

24V/6.2kW

Batteries

2x 12V/225Ah

Batteries

2x 12V/225Ah

WHEELS & TYRES:

WHEELS & TYRES:

Type

10 stud Steel or Alloy option

Type

10 stud Alloy

Rim Size

8.25 x 22.5

Rim Size

8.25 x 22.5

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SALES INQUIRIES

PHONE (HEAD OFFICE): 1800 033 557

National: Grant Simmonds – 0408 172 157, Jon Tozer – 0407 048 097 NSW & ACT: Paul Weber – 0418 494 881, Iain Dorward – 0466 415 026 QLD & NT: Dion Keating – 0400 640 072 WA, VIC, SA & TAS: Paul Kennedy – 0412 352 761

ADDRESS: 44 Lexia Place, Mulgrave VIC 3170 WEB: www.mercedes-benz-bus.com/en_AU/home EMAIL: mbbus@daimler.com

MAKE: MERCEDES-BENZ

MODEL: OC 500RF EURO 6

MAKE: MERCEDES-BENZ

MODEL: OC 500RF 3 AXLE

APPLICATION: CHARTER – LONG DISTANCE, SCHOOL

APPLICATION: CHARTER - LONG DISTANCE

DIMENSIONS:

DIMENSIONS:

Length (metres)

12.5

Length (metres)

12.5 to 14.5

Wheelbase (mm)

3000 (buggy format)

Wheelbase (mm)

3000 (buggy format)

Front Overhang (mm)

2570 (2100 Opt)

Front Overhang (mm)

2100 (2570 opt)

Rear Overhang (mm)

3300

Rear Overhang (mm)

2775

21.6 (wall to wall at overall length of 12.5)

Turning Circle Diameter (m)

23.9 (wall to wall at overall length of 14.5)

Turning Circle Diameter (m)

ENGINE:

ENGINE: Mercedes Benz/OM936LA (OM470LA Opt)

Make/Model

Mercedes Benz/OM457LA (OM470LA Euro6 Opt)

Configuration

6 cylinders in line

Configuration

6 cylinders in line

Power (hp/kW)

354/260 (Opt: 300hp & 390hp)

Power (hp/kW)

428/315 (Opt: 460hp)

Torque (Nm)

1400 (Opt: 1200, 1900)

Torque (Nm)

2100 (Opt: 2200)

Oil Capacity (litres)

28

Oil Capacity (litres)

28

Make/Model

FUEL SOURCE / CAPACITY:

FUEL SOURCE / CAPACITY:

Type

Diesel

Type

Diesel

Capacity (litres)

415L Fuel & 45L Adblue tank

Capacity (litres)

415L Fuel & 45L Adblue tank

TRANSMISSION: Auto Model / Type

TRANSMISSION: ZF/Ecolife/6 speed with torque converter & retarder

AXLES:

Auto Model / Type

OM457: Mercedes-Benz GO240-8 8 speed automated manual OM470: Mercedes-Benz GO250-8 speed automated manual

AXLES:

Type – Front

ZF/RL75E/Upper & lower suspension arms, 7500kg capacity

Type – Front

ZF/RL75E/Upper & lower suspension arms, 7500kg capacity

Type – Rear

Mercedes-Benz/RO 440/Rigid, single ratio hypoid axle. 12500 kg capacity

Type – Rear

Mercedes-Benz/RO 440/Rigid, single ratio hypoid axle. 12500 kg capacity.

Tag axle: Actively steered, maximum design capacity 6000kg

SUSPENSION:

SUSPENSION:

Type – Front

Independent electronic air suspension (ECAS) with Electronic Level Control (ENR), 2 air bellows, 2 telescopic double acting shock absorbers and stabilizer bar

Type – Front

Independent electronic air suspension (ECAS) with Electronic Level Control (ENR), 2 air bellows, 2 telescopic double acting shock absorbers and stabilizer bar

Type – Rear

Live axle. Electronic air suspension (ECAS) with Electronic Level Control (ENR), 4 air bellows, 4 telescopic double acting shock absorbers and stabilizer bar

Type – Rear

Live axle. Electronic air suspension (ECAS) with Electronic Level Control (ENR), 4 air bellows, 4 telescopic double acting shock absorbers and stabilizer bar. Tag axle Suspension: Air suspension with 2 air bellows, 2 double acting shock absorbers

BRAKES:

BRAKES:

Service Brakes

Ventilated disc brakes, ABS, EBS, ASR, ESP, AEBS, LDWS

Service Brakes

Ventilated disc brakes, ABS, EBS, ASR, ESP, AEBS, LDWS

Retarding Brake System

Engine/Trans

Retarding Brake System

Engine/Trans

EBS

Yes

EBS

Yes

ELECTRONIC SYSTEM:

ELECTRONIC SYSTEM:

Alternator

3x 28V/150A

Alternator

3x 28V/150A

Starter

24V/6.2kW

Starter

24V/7kW

Batteries

2x 12V/225Ah

Batteries

2x 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

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CHASSIS

MAKE: FUSO

DAIMLER

MODEL: 22-SEAT

CONTACT:

WEB:

Phone: 1300 429 134

rosabus.com.au

SERIES: ME OMNIBUS

MAKE: FUSO

MODEL: 25-SEAT

APPLICATION: CHARTER, SCHOOL

APPLICATION: CHARTER, SCHOOL

DIMENSIONS:

DIMENSIONS:

Length (metres)

6990

Length (metres)

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:

SERIES: ME OMNIBUS

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)

NS/129

Power (hp/kW)

NS/129

Torque (Nm)

430

Torque (Nm)

430

Oil Capacity (litres)

6

Oil Capacity (litres)

6

FUEL SOURCE / CAPACITY:

FUEL SOURCE / CAPACITY:

Type

Diesel

Type

Diesel

Capacity (litres)

100L Fuel & 12L Adblue Tank

Capacity (litres)

100L Fuel & 12L Adblue Tank

TRANSMISSION: Transmission Make/Model/ Description

TRANSMISSION: Fuso/M038S6 Duonic AMT/Dual Clutch AMT or Fuso/M038S5/5 speed manual

AXLES:

Transmission Make/Model/ Description

Fuso/M038S6 Duonic AMT/Dual Clutch AMT or Fuso/M038S5/5 speed manual

AXLES:

Type – Front

Fuso Independent

Type – Front

Fuso Independent

Type – Rear

Fuso D033H Full floating hypoid

Type – Rear

Fuso D033H Full floating hypoid

SUSPENSION:

SUSPENSION:

Type – Front

Independent coil suspension

Type – Front

Independent coil suspension

Type – Rear

Long tapered leaf springs

Type – Rear

Long tapered leaf springs

BRAKES:

BRAKES:

Service Brakes

Ventilated disc brakes, ABS, ASR, ESP

Service Brakes

Ventilated disc brakes, ABS, ASR, ESP

Retarding Brake System

Exhaust Brake

Retarding Brake System

Exhaust Brake

EBS

NS

EBS

NS

ELECTRONIC SYSTEM:

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

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THE ALL-NEW FUSO ROSA. THE BEST JUST GOT BETTER.

With a longstanding history of being Australia’s favourite light-duty bus, the next generation of Fuso Rosa continues to raise the bar in safety, reliability and overall driving experience. With the only 5year/200,000km warranty and 15,000km service interval in its class, you really can’t go past a Fuso Rosa.

TO SEE HOW THE ALL-NEW ROSA STACKS UP, VISIT FUSOROSA.COM.AU

• • • • •

Advanced Emergency Braking System Pedestrian Detection Lane Departure Warning Systems Electronic Stability Programme Dual Airbags

FUS6010413_ROSA_ABC Bus Directory_FPC 2021_297x210mm_FA.indd 1 Untitled-19 69

• • • • •

LED Headlights 22 or 25 seater configuration 129kw/430Nm Euro 6 engine 6-speed AMT or 5-speed Manual Flat Floor

15/7/21 10:50 am 12/10/21 8:23 am

CHASSIS & BODIES

FUSO

STYLE T MEETS SAFETY It’s what you can’t see that’s exciting in the new Rosa.

WORDS AND IMAGES PAUL ALDRIDGE

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he Fuso Rosa might be a familiar face when you see it on the road; it’s been an enduring and popular model in the Australian light-duty bus market for more than 15 years. This newmodel Rosa might look really familiar, but it has some pretty advanced features and changes behind the scenes that are pretty impressive.

Some test drives and vehicles are all about the looks and luxuries and we certainly love to drive these vehicles. The Rosa, though, isn’t a vehicle built just to impress. The thought process behind the updates have been made with a huge focus on the importance of safety features and it would be hard not to agree when these buses are a very popular choice for schools and nursing homes.

The new Rosa comes in three models: the Rosa Deluxe (22-seater), Rosa Deluxe (25-seater) and the Rosa Standard

(25-seater). Today’s drive is in the Rosa Deluxe 25-seater and, yes, it is the top-ofthe-range vehicle, but what is important is that the key changes made to the model are across the board and come as standard in each model.

Fuso says that having the two options for seating capacity gives the Rosa a distinct class advantage, with the additional three passengers adding significant value for operators. As always, this class has a broad appeal from tourism operations, rental vehicles and regional area school buses to shuttle bus operators.

SAFETY, SAFETY, SAFETY Fitted as standard, each Rosa comes with height-adjustable LED headlamps, an electronic stability program, anti-skid disc brakes, driver air-bag, passenger airbag, reversing cameras, lane-departure warning system (LDWS) and what is arguably the busnews.com.au

12/10/21 2:08 pm

most impressive standard feature across the range: the advanced emergency braking system (AEBS).

AEBS is a radar sensor system that detects and helps avoid possible collisions with both moving and stationary vehicles or objects, but it also reacts to pedestrian movement.

If the system detects movement, the driver is given both audible and visual warnings from the dashboard in tandem with physical braking.

Obviously a potentially life-saving feature, it is perfect that it comes as standard across the board and not the usual optional extra.

Fuso explains that it added the technology as soon as it was available as it considers safety to be critical in its vehicle design.

Another standard feature is the LDWS, which usually is an optional feature in high-end vehicles. It alerts the driver if you make any unintentional lane departures and this certainly is another feature that will help minimise crashes or the impact in case of any unavoidable accidents.

When the camera detects you are driving out of your

“Low cabin noise from the engine is one of the standout features of the bus.”

Opposite: The low-floor design and improvements to visibility out of the windows are great for passengers; Above: All seats come with a three-point seatbelt.

Left: Sound reduction from the engine is impressive in the driver’s cabin. busnews.com.au

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CHASSIS & BODIES

FUSO

MÜLLER NEW FUSO TRUCK AND BUS AUSTRALIA DIRECTOR

EXPERIENCED DAIMLER EXECUTIVE ARRIVED FROM STUTTGART WITH NOTABLE SALES HISTORY. Daimler Truck and Bus Australia Pacific hailed the appointment of Alexander Müller as the new Fuso Truck and Bus Australia director in February 2021.

Müller, who was previously the head of global key account management and vocational business for Mercedes-Benz Trucks in Stuttgart, brought with him experience across a range of Daimler operations, Daimler explains.

Müller began his career with Daimler in 1999 in Stuttgart, in the role of marketing manager vans.

In 2002, he took over the role as head of sales and marketing vans in Italy, where he and his team were also responsible for building up the Mitsubishi Fuso business.

In 2006, he returned to Stuttgart as head of Sales and Marketing Fuso Europe until 2013, when he was given responsibility for sales of Daimler Latina in South America for the Fuso, BharatBenz, Freightliner, Western Star, Mercedes-Benz Truck and Vans brands.

After his return from Sao Paulo in 2015, Müller was responsible for the management

“The LED touchscreen sits in a great viewing position for the driver.”

Above: The mirror system includes a blind spot mirror for extra visibility.

Opposite, Top: The low floor and grab rails are well designed for less mobile passengers.

Opposite, Bottom: A rear-mounted camera acts as an extra pair of eyes.

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of the worldwide Mercedes-Benz Truck Fleet and Bodybuilder business.

During his time at Fuso Europe, he oversaw a restructure of the sales network and set an annual sales record of 10,000 units, according to Daimler.

That track record makes Müller an “immensely valuable” asset for Fuso, Daimler Truck and Bus Australia Pacific president and CEO Daniel Whitehead explains.

“Further strengthening our local management team is central to our commitment to deliver industry-leading products and services for Australia’s vitally important truck and bus industry,” he says.

“Securing someone of Alex’s ability, experience and proven track record to lead the Fuso brand and respond to evolving customer demand is a big plus.”

“Alex knows exactly what it takes to realise the huge potential of Fuso and its range of class-leading trucks and buses.”

Müller says he looks forward to growing the Fuso Truck and Bus business here. ”This is a very exciting time to lead Fuso in Australia,” Müller says.

“I’m looking forward to helping more

lane the driver receives an audible and visual alert on the dash so they can correct their driving. Nice.

Yes, we may all be familiar with this technology, but the inclusion on even a standard build is a great selling point.

“There is only one light-duty bus in Australia with advanced emergency braking, only one with lane-departure warning and only one with electronic stability - and that is the new Fuso Rosa,” Daniel Whitehead, CEO Daimler Truck and Bus Australia, said.

Across all models as standard, the 3.0-litre 4P10 engine meets the Euro 6 emissions standards, Fuso says this engine has the most power in its class at 129kW at 3,500rpm and with 430Nm of torque. Euro 6 standards are achieved by using selective catalytic reduction (SCR) in combination with a diesel particulate filter (DPF).

The engine also features exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), and a variable geometry turbocharger (VGR) with common-rail fuel injection. This engine is, in fact, smaller and lighter than in the previous model, but is also more powerful with more torque.

Low cabin noise from the engine is one of the standout features of the bus. Driving along the M4 freeway at 100km/h, it was amazing how little noise comes from the engine.

Fuso has also introduced a new advanced Duonic automated manual transmission that features six gears. The dual-clutch transmission is said to help with the improved fuel efficiency and give quicker and smoother gear changes. You can just put it into drive and let it do the rest, as it just knows what gear to be in and it works perfectly.

We did put it into manual mode for a test, but

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Above: Alexander Müller is the new Fuso Truck and Bus Australia director. customers grow their businesses with the most advanced trucks and buses backed by the best customer support packages in the country,” he said.

“It will be important for me to establish strong relationships with customers and dealers to offer the best solutions in such a dynamic transport industry,” he added.

much preferred the auto mode.

Visibility for the driver is good; there is a small pillar to the right, but because it’s dark grey it disappears and certainly doesn’t interfere with line of vision.

The mirrors have always worked well on the Rosa for driver vision and this system hasn’t changed from the previous model – why change a system that works?

On the left-hand side of the bus there is a three-mirror system, with a small front-mounted blind spot mirror to assist the driver with parking or for vision of pedestrians and smaller passengers disembarking.

There’s a larger mirror for side vision of the bus and there’s another higher-set blind spot mirror; the three-system mirrors give overall great driver vision, another good safety feature.

The Rosa has a new headlight system that has a five-stage adjusting function that allows the driver to change the headlight position to better suit altering conditions.

Another part of the Rosa that has really changed from the previous model is the dashboard area; it now has a very sleek, modern look and a European feel.

Two standout features of the new dashboard are the touchscreen display and the dashmounted gear shifter.

The LED touchscreen sits in a great viewing position for the driver, with the added advantage of being an extra pair of eyes at the rear of the bus with its rear-mounted camera when in reverse, or when driver activated.

The aircon function controls are really easy to use and read, there’s a climate control display and busnews.com.au

12/10/21 11:41 am

Specs MAKE/MODEL: Fuso Rosa SEATS: 22 or 25 ENGINE: 3.0-litre fourcylinder 4P10 Euro 6 POWER: 129kW@3,500rpm TORQUE: 430Nm@1,600– 2,860rpm TRANSMISSION: Sixspeed Duonic dual clutch automated manual transmission, with manual or automatic modes, or five-speed manual WARRANTY: Fiveyear/200,000km SUSPENSION: Front independent double wishbone with coils, shock absorber and stabiliser and rear leaf with shock absorbers and stabilser the system is simple to navigate and read, even when driving.

The round dash air vents are also very well placed for the driver. Overall, the aircon did a great job on the humid day we did our drive.

WELCOME CABIN UPDATES A driver cabin change we thought was a smart one was the re-positioning of some of the operational levers. The transmission shift lever was moved from the floor to being dash mounted.

This has two advantages for the driver. One is that less movement is required to reach the lever and, two, being dash mounted means there’s more driver floor space, which is good for driver leg room and comfort.

The other lever-mount change was the repositioning of the hand brake. It has been moved from the footwell to the left of the driver seat, again improving driver accessibility. So, from a driver’s comfort perspective, these are great improvements.

For passenger accessibility there is a new flat floor design that will help with elderly or disabled passenger ease of movement. This also allows for simpler aftermarket wheelchair lift installation.

Another thing we personally noticed was that the grab handles are very easy to use when entering or exiting the bus; again good for elderly or disabled passengers.

The new Rosa also has new improved LED passenger lamps in all models and new highbacked seats in the deluxe models. All models have three-point lap sash seatbelts and there have been improvements to some of the windows for greater passenger visibility.

GENEROUS WARRANTY A feature that has remained the same with the Rosa is the generous five-year/200,000km busnews.com.au

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warranty, but there has been an increase to the servicing intervals to 15,000km. Fuso claims this increase will help reduce running costs for operators and increase vehicle uptime, so there shouldn’t be any complaints about that.

The takeaway key point of this bus was the focus Fuso has placed on vehicle safety features.

There’s been a lot of changes and updates made to the new Rosa, but most of them are features you won’t realise immediately.

This is impressive because for operators and drivers alike, passenger safety and any features that give us peace of mind is money well spent.

When a base model comes with the same added safety features as the deluxe model you know a company is serious about safety and that certainly has to be applauded.

STEERING: Rack and pinion; Wheel - Tilt and scope adjustable BRAKING: Disc brakes front and rear, exhaust brake DIMENSIONS: 22 seats – 6,990mm long, 2,070mm wide, 2,755mm tall and a 3,995mm wheelbase; 25 seats – 7,730mm long, 2,070mm wide, 2,755mm tall, with a 4,550mm wheelbase FUEL TANK: 100 litres TYRES: 205/85R16 SERVICE INTERVALS: 15,000km MISC.: SAFETY (ALL MODELS) As standard, the Rosa features advanced emergency braking, lane departure warning system, electronic stability program, anti-skid disc brakes, a driver and front passenger airbag, height adjustable LED headlights, hill start assist and a reversing camera AEBS - A system designed to avoid or mitigate collision damage uses a radar sensor at the front of the bus and can detect potential collisions with moving and stationary vehicles, as well as moving pedestrians. When a collision is imminent, the driver receives an audible and visual warning from the dashboard shortly followed by automatic braking. The system is dynamic and its algorithm allows it to vary activation times to best mitigate collision damage in a number of situations.

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CHASSIS & BODIES

HINO

TAKE FULL ADVANTAGE Hino’s RN8J with Custom Adventurer body brings together local design and build with the long-running experience of a business that seeks to understand and support its rural operators. This latest creation is built to meet strict TfNSW school safety guidelines.

WO R D S A N D I M AG E S PAU L A L D R I DG E

H

ino has been delivering buses in Australia for 55 years, with the first seven Hino buses built in 1965 by Freighter Industries in Adelaide. Five went to the Gold Coast, one went to Tasmania and one to Adelaide. Hino has actually been in the bus market longer than it has been in the trucking industry and to endure 74

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for so long, and have success in both industries, it isn’t taking the ‘one size fits all’ approach to its business.

This is the first Transport for New South Wales (TfNSW) Rural and Regional Category 4 school bus with the Custom Adventurer body on a Hino RN8J automatic chassis.

Although not a new chassis for

Hino, what is new for this particular product is the combination with the Custom Adventurer body and it’s the very first for TfNSW built to a school specification.

BEHIND THE WHEEL This Hino RN8J with Custom Adventurer body is finished off with an busnews.com.au

12/10/21 11:53 am

HINO JAPAN ANNOUNCES PONCHO Z EV LIGHT-DUTY BUS DUE MID-2022, HINO MOTORS, LTD. PLANS TO LAUNCH THE HINO PONCHO Z EV LIGHT-DUTY ELECTRIC VEHICLE (EV) IN JAPAN. The Hino Poncho light-duty lowfloor non-step diesel bus launched in 2002 has been widely adopted throughout Japan for community transportation purposes and is a popular choice in Australia with on-demand services, it states.

The new Poncho Z EV keeps the features of the Hino Poncho, including universal design that makes it user-friendly for everyone, and provides cleaner transportation through electrification, it explains.

Its large full-flat area and low-floor non-step structure enable easier boarding and moving inside the bus, making it a user-friendly option for all passengers, including users of wheelchairs and prams, Hino says.

It has a simple and appealingly rounded exterior, and being an EV means it is zero-emission and lownoise, making it an excellent choice for communities, it adds.

It is also highly agile for manoeuvring through narrow city streets and provides a cruising range sufficient for a community bus, making it a very practical option, Hino claims.

“With today’s growing concern for global environmental issues, there are increasing needs for zero-emissions vehicles,” said Hino Motor Sales Australia - manager, Hino Bus, Sara Clark.

“The new Hino Poncho Z EV keeps the features of the Hino Poncho, including universal design that makes it user-friendly for everyone, and provides cleaner transportation through electrification.”

used by e-mobility optimised operation management businesses, Hino explains.

Cune-Linx is a joint venture established in May, 2021, by Hino Motors, Ltd. and Kansai Electric Power Company that provides solutions to issues in e-mobility adoption and operation.

It offers packaged solutions with EVs, charging facilities, IT systems, and operation according to user needs for a monthly fee, Hino says.

Hino has declared its initiatives to achieve zero environmental impact as part of its Hino Environmental Challenge 2050 issued in 2017.

The company is accelerating its efforts, and, in April 2021, it established midterm targets in its Hino Environmental Milestone 2030, it adds.

PACKAGED SOLUTIONS Interestingly, in Japan this model will also be included in the line-up of vehicles by Cube-Linx, as a vehicle to be

Below: Hino Motors, Ltd. plans to launch the Hino Poncho Z EV light-duty electric vehicle (EV) bus mid-2022 in Japan.

LIFE-CYCLE ASSESSMENT To achieve carbon neutrality, Hino is pursuing all possible measures - not only for its own products, but also in a range of strategies based on a life-cycle assessment of vehicles from production to disposal.

The Hino Poncho Z EV, along with the solutions from Cube-Linx, will contribute to reducing CO2 emissions by promoting the widespread use of electric vehicles, Hino states.

The company will continue to pursue a variety of measures from the perspectives of customers and society, including greater use of e-mobility as a useful solution for businesses.

alloy bullbar – essential for rural and regional driving.

Approaching the bus you notice the destination system: we’re told it’s the largest size available and it stands out, which will be good for when the school bus is approaching from afar in rural areas.

Powered by a Hino JO8E VD sixcylinder turbocharged and intercooled diesel engine that puts out 206kW (285hp) at 2,400 rpm, it has an overhead camshaft coupled with a ZF Ecolife six-speed automatic transmission with retarder.

At 285hp, the horsepower isn’t huge, but for its application as a school bus this is more than ample. Going up inclines even, it hardly needs a foot on the pedal and there is plenty of zip. The combination with the ZF busnews.com.au

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CHASSIS & BODIES

HINO

transmission is perfect; it chooses the right gear without any issues and knows where it needs to be.

Visibility is great – we were told that the windows for both the driver and passengers had been lengthened and all round visibility subsequently is without fault. There are large heated electric mirrors for the driver and a Mobitec CCTV 5 camera system that is easy to use and gives the driver easy access to all areas both inside and out - perfect!

Another part of the design that helps with driver visibility is the positioning of the instrument panel and steering wheel.

You often are looking through the steering wheel and there can be a slight obstruction of the sight path with some wheels, but the design on the RN8J means that the driver seems to be in a more raised position, which gives a clear view of the instruments and no loss of road visibility. The driver’s area is simple, easy to use and operate. The maxi brake is situated in a good position beside the driver. Overall, it is very Hino in feel and something that just works.

At one point we realised we hadn’t been using the retarder, but flick it to one and it’s great. Into number three and wow it does slow down. We had been told we probably wouldn’t need to use the brakes that much

“Powered by a Hino JO8E VD six-cylinder turbocharged and intercooled diesel engine that puts out 206kW (285hp) at 2,400 rpm.”

Specs MAKE: Hino MODEL: RN8J BODY: Custom Adventurer ENGINE: JO8E VD sixcylinder diesel, turbocharged and intercooled TRANSMISSION: ZF Ecolife six-speed automatic POWER: 206kW@2,400rpm TORQUE: 824Nm@1,500rpm GVM: 15,000kg BRAKES: Full air, dual circuits, S cam type, leading and trailing shoes for front and rear; ABS SUSPENSION: Two bag suspension with doubleacting shock absorbers and stabiliser FUEL TANK: 250L DIMENSIONS: 11,460mm x 2,450mm x 1,855mm WHEELBASE: 6,000mm SEATING: McConnell Educator, 57 seats (model can accommodate 45–61 seats)

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busnews.com.au

12/10/21 11:55 am

and that was certainly right.

The 57 standard seats in this bus are McConnell Educator seats, but operators can also choose Styleride, and Custom also produces its own seats, so there are set options for the customer to choose from. The McConnells have a 2/3 seating configuration, so for children under 12 there are three seat-

busnews.com.au

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belted seats available.

In the rear engine compartment the layout from an accessibility and mechanical point of view is perfect. Daily checks will be easy with good access to belt changes, pulleys and the AC compressor. In a front, side exterior compartment there is easy access to electric componentry and fuses, and this area also offers a safe spot for driver belongings.

As drivers, historically, we’ve always really loved driving Hinos. We’ve driven many over the years and find some common features in them all. They are always predictable and not over-complicated, so easy for us drivers to operate. Hopefully this new generation will continue the Hino legacy.

Overall, it was a really pleasurable drive.

Opposite: In the engine compartment the layout from an accessibility and mechanical point of view is near perfect.

Top: The driver’s area is simple, easy to use and operate, with excellent vision out of the front and of the instrument panel.

Left: This is the first TfNSW Rural and Regional Category 4 school bus to be built by Hino.

Below: McConnell Educator seats were used in this, but operators can also choose Styleride or Custom.

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CHASSIS

MAKE: HINO

HINO

MODEL: PONCHO

ADDRESS:

WEB:

Hino Motor Sales Australia, 6-10 Parraweena Rd, Caringbah NSW 2229 Phone: 1300 014 466

www.hino.com.au EMAIL:

bus@hino.com.au

SERIES: EURO 5

APPLICATION: CITY BUS, ON DEMAND, DEMAND RAPID TRANSPORT, COMMUNITY TRANSPORT, DDA COMPLIANT CHASSIS DIMENSIONS:

TRANSMISSION:

BODY OPTIONS:

SEATING OPTIONS:

Chassis Length (metres)

6.99

Automatic Trans Make/ Aisin/A500/5 Speed Full Model/ Description Automatic

Wheelchair Lift Access

Yes

Seating Make

Styleride / McConnells

Chassis Wheelbase (mm)

4825

Manual Trans Make/ Model/ Description

CD/PA/Radio

Seating Model

Metro

Chassis Front Overhang (mm)

775

DAB+AM/ FM Radio with CD & Bluetooth

Seatbelts

Optional

Chassis Rear Overhang 1360 (mm) Chassis Turning Circle Diameter (metres)

15.6

SUSPENSION: Type – Front

Type – Rear

ENGINE: Make / Model

Hino Poncho

Configuration

5.123L

Power (HP / kW)

180Hp/132kW

NA

Air bag & leaf spring with shock absorbers and stabiliser with raise / lower function Air bag & leaf spring with shock absorbers and stabiliser with raise / lower function

BRAKES: Service Brakes

Air Over Hydraulic (Drum)

Retarding Brake System

Exhaust Brake

EBS

Yes

Torque (Nm)

530

Bore and Stroke

112 x 130

Compression Ratio

NA

Fuel Capacity (litres)

100

Body Floor Height (mm) 350

Oil Capacity (litres)

12

Body Weight (kg)

Emissions

Euro 5

78

BODY DIMENSIONS: Body Length (metres)

6990

Body Width (metres)

2080

Body Height (metres)

3100

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AXLES:

DVD/TV

Optional

Toilet

No

Front Make / Model / Desc.

Hino / Reverse Elliot I-Beam

Individual Reading Lights

No

Rear Make / Model / Desc.

Hino / SH12 / Single Speed Hypoid

Individual AC Vents

No

Reverse Camera

Yes

Other (please specify)

3 year 100,000km warranty / 4 year or 100,000km powertrain warranty / 3 year cab corrosion perforation warranty

SEATING: Seating Capacity

18 seated 8 standees (metro seats)

Passenger Capacity

26

Fixed Coach

18

5620

STORAGE: All types

AIR-CONDITIONING: Air-Cond Standard Yes Air-Cond Make

Denso

Air-Cond Model

Saloon & Dedicated Driver Air Conditioning With Heater

busnews.com.au

12/10/21 8:58 am

HINO PONCHO THE MOST FLEXIBLE TRANSPORT SOLUTION

XAVIER_HINO38194 - FP

THAT’S ANOTHER HINO

Turn to Hino when you want to add Australia’s most flexible and innovative on-demand bus to your fleet. The versatile Hino Poncho features an ultra low floor design offering enhanced accessibility and comfort. It is highly manoeuvrable, equipped with key safety features and a true automatic transmission, and is DDA-Compliant. Plus with our comprehensive suite of business

solutions through Hino Advantage, you will reduce your running costs over the life of the vehicle. Find out more at hino.com.au

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CHASSIS & BODIES

IRIZAR

BUS MANAGEMENT CHANGE AT IRIZAR AUSTRALIA

A leadership change at European coach-body distributor Irizar Australia sees ex-Iveco bus stalwart Steve Heanes now head up the Spanish manufacturer here following Daniel Castro’s promotion to Irizar USA, the company reports.

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VOLVO-IRIZAR TARGET ‘SMALLER SCHOOL BUS’ MARKET WORDS FABIAN COTTER IMAGES COURTESY VOLVO BUS AUSTRALIA

Bringing Euro flair to the Australian smallto-medium sized school bus segment could give Volvo an edge via the launch of its new ‘short’ Euro 6 B8R chassis matched to Irizar i6 3700 body, the company announced.

Available for immediate delivery in collaboration with Irizar, the B8R Euro 6 school bus in ‘medium’ 10.8-metre size featuring a modern i6 3700 body will be, “…Volvo’s first model to exist within the medium and smaller size bus market, and will add a European advantage to the mix of existing manufacturers within this space,” the company explains.

“We’re thrilled to announce the launch of our new Volvo B8R Short Euro 6 chassis school bus with Irizar,” said Mitch Peden, general manager Volvo Bus Australia.

“For decades, Volvo Bus and Irizar have remained close business partners and we look forward to seeing our new school bus model on the roads ensuring safe, reliable and environmentally friendly transport for school students across the country,” he explained.

“It has been decades since Volvo Bus has offered a product of this smaller scale, and the new B8R is part of VBA’s mission to continue to meet the ever-changing needs within the industry.”

Above: The modern and classic design of the Irizar i6 body offers space configurable with 35-45 seating capacities, and a suite of premium interior features, across its 10.8 metres

E

ffective as of September 13, 2021, past Irizar Australia managing director Daniel Castro left his position to join Irizar operations in the United States as the new director.

Castro has a Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering and has recently concluded his Master’s in business administration at the Melbourne Business School.

“I am proud to be part of the history of Irizar in Australia since day one of this market, initially as sales and busnews.com.au

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technical support for our previous sales representative and, since 2013, as the managing director of our operation,” said Castro, who devoted 17 years of his career within the Irizar group.

“Watching a market start, helping to remove the hurdles [out] of the way and see a brand reach strong recognition is a long cycle that not many professionals have the chance to follow,” he explained.

“I was blessed with that opportunity in Irizar,” he stated proudly to ABC

MAXIMUM EFFICIENCY The new Volvo B8R combines the reliability and efficiency of Volvo’s standard B8R European driveline and offers Volvo’s most fuel-efficient D8K Euro 6 engine with the legendary ZF transmission as a standard, it confirms.

It also comes with a range of Volvo contracts and additional service offering options to ensure maximum efficiency, uptime and support for customers across Australia, Volvo explains.

The new Volvo B8R also incorporates Volvo’s Driver Support System (DSS), which offers a range of capabilities including forward collision warning with emergency braking; adaptive cruise control; lane keeping support; and driver alert support to collectively deliver enhanced safety and comfort.

Irizar Australia managing director Daniel Castro, stated: “This Volvo and Irizar collaboration combines our strengths.”

“Both brands have unique technological advancements and a strong focus on service, with operators having access to Volvo’s largest dealership network in the country and the Irizar mobile workshops available across WA, Victoria, Queensland and NSW. “The integration of services are combined for chassis, body and air-conditioning and customers have access to a one-stop-shop experience,” he explained.

The modern and classic design of the Irizar i6 body offers space configurable with 35–45 seating capacities, and a suite of premium interior features, across its 10.8 metres.

magazine, highlighting his strong links to Australia.

“Throughout the past eight years, my family and I have created strong roots in this country, having adopted the ‘Aussie’ nationality and lifestyle.

Leaving all this behind is a mixture of feelings; it’s very sad personally, but I’m looking forward to the new challenges in a new country,” Castro concluded.

NEW BLOOD To continue and progress a successful strategy in Australia, Irizar Group ABC 2021 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

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CHASSIS & BODIES

IRIZAR

and, when bundled up with chassis R&M, it’s an absolute winner,” Heanes explained.

KEY SOLUTIONS With Heanes joining the team as leader, it complements the long-term strategy of Irizar Australia in this market, according to the company.

“We are very glad that Steven Heanes has accepted to join Irizar,” said Rafael Sterling, Irizar Group global CEO. “His experience with the various bus and coach associations and his capacity of building relationships are strengths that we value a lot within the Irizar Group.

“Steven has the skills and experience to strengthen our brand in the market by continuing the ‘customer-centrism’ strategy and the development of turn-key solutions,” Sterling explained.

Castro added: “Steven Heanes is not a stranger to Irizar Group; he has visited our factories with customers and our relationship goes back more [than] 10 years.

“I am really excited about joining the Irizar family and growing the business further. “

Top: Daniel Castro has joined Irizar operations in the United States as the new director.

Above: Irizar Group in Australia has appointed Steven Heanes as its new managing director.

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has appointed Steven Heanes as its new managing director.

Heanes – a well-known professional in the Australian bus industry, with more than 20 years’ experience – brings to Irizar, “…a very matured view of the market, adding the knowledge and network Irizar needs to keep growing,” the company explains.

“A career spanning 37 years in the commercial vehicle sector, starting at the workshop floor and progressing through to senior management roles – which covered various parts of the commercial vehicle industry – has given me a good understanding of what is required to deliver good service to the customer, but also what a customer expects, which I believe fits very well with the Irizar values,” Heanes stated.

“I am really excited about joining the Irizar family and growing the business further.

“Irizar has become a strong player of the public transport sector and has been very innovative in its offerings to the market.

“One innovation is the R&M packages for the body and AC; it’s challenging enough for customers to think about the capital expenditure, but when it comes to the maintenance costs that is even more difficult.

“Customers who are working on fixed contract rates can now be confident knowing the exact cost of the body and AC over the life of the vehicle and or contract –

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“Indirectly, Steven was always a contributor to our success.

“With Steven taking on my position, I will leave Australia with peace of mind knowing that our customers and our team will be in very good hands,” complimented Castro.

IRIZAR IN AUSTRALIA It has been eight years since the Irizar Group decided to change strategy and establish its own operation in Australia, it explains.

Since then, the brand has established strong relationships with customers and chassis manufacturers; has delivered product to the major bus operators in Australia; and had double-digit growth for the past four years, acquiring an astonishing 25 new customers per year on average, it confirms, finishing 2020 as market leader with 23 per cent share for diesel-powered buses and coaches in Australia.

Other innovations were on the service side of the business, it explains, with Irizar Asia Pacific becoming the first manufacturer to match the service routine of the chassis suppliers, partnering with the OEMs on resource and mining (R&M) contracts for body and air conditioning service.

Proving the success of the Irizar brand strategy here in the past eight years, in 2021 it will reach its milestone of delivering 1,000 vehicles into the Australian bus and coach market, the company confirms. busnews.com.au

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MAKE: IRIZAR

MODEL: i6S

ADDRESS:

WEB:

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

www.irizar.com.au

SERIES: COACH

MAKE: IRIZAR

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)

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.

Body Material

Two piece, hot stretched aluminium roof & side panels. Fibreglass front & rear.

Complete thermal & acoustic insulation.

Seating Capacity (provide range if applicable)

48-71

Seating Capacity (provide range if applicable)

48-71

Passenger Capacity (provide range if applicable)

48-71

Passenger Capacity (provide range if applicable)

48-71

No. of Doors (provide range if applicable)

1-2

No. of Doors (provide range if applicable)

1 or 2

SEATING OPTIONS: SEATING OPTIONS: Seating Type

Recliners

Seating Make/s

Mcconells, Styleride and SEGE

Seating Model/s

Various

Seatbelts (Yes / No)

Yes

BODY DIMENSIONS: Body Length - metres (provide range if applicable)

12.5-14.5

Body Width - metres (provide range if applicable)

2.5

Body Height - metres (provide range if applicable)

3.9

Body Floor Height - mm (provide range if applicable)

1700

STORAGE:

Seating Type

FIxed or recliners

Seating Make/s

Mcconells, Styleride and SEGE

Seating Model/s

Various

Seatbelts (Yes / No)

Yes

BODY DIMENSIONS: Body Length - metres (provide range if applicable)

10.8-14.5

Body Width - metres (provide range if applicable)

2.5

Body Height - metres (provide range if applicable)

3.5, 3.7 or 3.9

Body Floor Height - mm (provide range if applicable) 1500-1700

STORAGE: Side bins

Yes

Thru bins

Yes Yes

Side bins

Yes

Thru bins

Yes

Internal luggage bins

Internal luggage bins

Yes

AIR-CONDITIONING:

AIR-CONDITIONING: Air-Conditioning Standard (Yes / No)

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

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Air-Conditioning Standard (Yes / No)

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

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CHASSIS & BODIES

SCANIA

SCANIA ‘PLUGS IN’ OVER 500,000 CONNECTED VEHICLES

In excess of half a million connected Scania vehicles are rolling world-wide, continuously sharing data for analysis – with 1,486 of them being connected Scania buses and coaches operating in Australia, Scania Australia confirms.

WORDS FABIAN COTTER IMAGES COURTESY SCANIA AUSTRALIA

M

ore than just a fleet management tool, Scania’s data collection delivers a powerful competitive advantage to its customers when they are negotiating for new business, the company explains.

A decade ago, Scania took the lead by introducing a communication device as standard in all its vehicles, it says. This enabled customers to achieve improved uptime, performance and efficiency across their operations, and for Scania to collect scientific data about product use, as well as 84

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analysing logistics patterns, it explains.

Scania’s lead product manager for fleet management services, Venugopal Gangaiah, says the importance of having large numbers of vehicles connected cannot be over-stated, and considers this to be an important milestone for Scania.

“It is vital in our journey towards becoming a sustainable end-to-end solution provider of transport,” Gangaiah said.

“Scania wouldn’t be where it is today in terms of knowledge about products

and customer behaviour, without the first vehicle being connected some 20 years ago making this possible.

“The Scania fleet management portal and later launching our own communicator in 2009 were also strategically important milestones – not to mention recognition through the various telematics awards collected by Scania over the last decade.”

LONG STANDING In Australia, Scania has been promoting its busnews.com.au

12/10/21 1:28 pm

fleet-monitoring services for several years.

“Scania customers who monitor the data produced by their vehicles and drivers have a far clearer understanding about how their assets are being used and with what degree of efficiency and productivity,” said Richard Bain, Scania Australia’s services portfolio manager.

“The data generated and analysed by the fleet-monitoring system really gives them a bird’s-eye view of their costs and highlights where money is being wasted or where they can make changes to busnews.com.au

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improve their total operating economy.

“Drawing on the global data relating to usage, speed, loading and driver behaviour, Scania is better able to predict service needs and suggest preventative maintenance plans in order to ensure the operators benefit from, and achieve, the highest possible uptime,” Bain said.

MILESTONES Scania reached the 100,000 connected vehicles milestone in 2014, and the numbers have risen at a rate of close to

60,000 annually to pass 500,000. Since 2019, Scania has also offered this vital connectivity feature to users of its industrial and marine engines, the company explains.

Although all new trucks and buses leave the factory equipped with a communicating device, customers have to sign a contract before Scania can process their vehicle data, and then access commercial service packages at various levels to see the data, Scania explains.

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CHASSIS & BODIES

SCANIA

ADELAIDE O-BAHN ‘GREENER’ VIA SCANIA HYBRID BUS SOUTH AUSTRALIA NOW HAS ITS FIRST SCANIA HYBRID BUS IN ACTION “TOWARDS A GREENER FUTURE” AFTER DEBUTING ON ADELAIDE’S FAMED O-BAHN BUSWAY, THE COMPANY ANNOUNCED RECENTLY.

The Scania hybrid, which can run with zero tailpipe emissions, has been bodied by Precision Buses in Adelaide, and comes ready to operate on the O-Bahn as well as the city streets, Scania states.

“Today we are taking a small but important step towards achieving a sustainable transport solution in Adelaide,” said Julian Gurney, director of Sales for Scania Bus and Engines.

“The first Scania hybrid to hit the streets will be able to travel on the O-Bahn. When pulling into the interchanges to pick up or set down passengers and when departing the stops, the bus has the ability to operate on battery power, which means no noise and no tailpipe emissions,” he said.

The Scania powertrain retains the familiar high output, lowest-emission Euro 6 diesel engine mandated by the South Australian Government (and meets a higher standard than the ADR requirements), mated to

an electric machine powered by batteries and charged through a regeneration process.

The introduction of additional electric propulsion leads to a significant reduction in tailpipe emissions, says Scania.

HOMETOWN BODY A locally assembled two-door Precision VST bus body has been built over the Scania chassis. This is the first of two Scania hybrid buses ordered by the South Australia Department of Infrastructure and Transport (DIT), and both will carry “Hybrid” badging on the overhead battery pod. A second order of five Scania hybrids is also in the pre-production stage, Scania confirms.

The adoption of the Scania hybrid for the DIT-owned fleet has led to an increase in the number of employees at Precision Buses dedicated to bus body building, Scania outlines.

Right: The adoption of the Scania hybrid for the DIT-owned fleet has led to an increase in the number of employees at Precision Buses dedicated to bus body building, Scania outlines.

this intel through Scania to really leverage the benefits, the company explains.

MORE TO COME

Above:

The data generated and analysed by the fleetmonitoring system gives operators a bird’s-eye view of their costs.

Opposite: The new 90,000 square metre warehouse opened in September, 2021.

86

on a weekly, monthly and yearly basis, showing basic vehicle performance and consumption.

Most popular of the more advanced service packs is the ‘control package’, says Scania, supplying access to the Fleet Management Portal (FMP) and the Fleet app. It gives more detailed information about efficiency, productivity, safety and environmental impact of the business, not possible some years earlier, it states.

The information from more than 90 data parameters are not enough in themselves, though; fleet owners need to make use of

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Customers can currently monitor their vehicles based on engine or fuel use. With increasing electrification of transport, further milestones are on the horizon, Scania states.

Upgraded hardware and software will also make tracking of battery electric vehicles’ (BEV) performance possible, it adds.

“The existing Scania Communicator will be upgraded soon, enabling quicker and more advanced data collection and analysis,” Gangaiah said.

“This will result in even more modular and tailored services and is a prerequisite for reaching our science-based targets (SBTi).

“Emissions data reveal tank-to-wheel facts by default today in the fleet portal, but soon it will also be possible to view the well-to-wheel figures another milestone to look forward to,” he said.

ENHANCED SPARE PARTS Scania Australia is continuing its spare parts investment in Australia as its business grows at record levels across all divisions.

Following closely from the start of construction of a new company-owned sales and service branch at Eastern Creek, New South Wales, Scania acquired two new warehouses to provide a higher busnews.com.au

12/10/21 1:29 pm

“Each of these new Scania hybrid buses will make a contribution to reducing environmental emissions from public transport, accelerating us towards the goal of a fossil free transport future,” Gurney said.

“This hybrid technology has been proven in operation in several European cities where diesel consumption and emissions have been cut by up to 25 per cent per vehicle.

“We know that our hybrid technology makes a tangible contribution to reducing air and noise pollution.

“The Scania hybrids are part of the 340 Scania Euro 6-compliant diesel buses that we will deliver over the next decade for the benefit of all Adelaide’s public transport users.

“The first Scania hybrid will also be the 100th Scania bus built by Precision Buses for DIT (53 of which were delivered under the previous contract and 47 under the current contract).

“Scania has long been the most popular bus provider for the O-Bahn busway, which cumulatively provides more than 1000 trips per week over the 18km run to Adelaide’s commuters,” Gurney explained.

SIGNIFICANT STEP “These hybrid buses are setting South Australia on the road towards a cleaner environment.

Ultimately, we hope to reach a battery-powered, zero-emission bus future,” said Steven Godbold, Scania SA Government Bus Contract manager.

“Australian bus drivers who have been behind the wheel are very happy with the driveability and overall performance.

“Ride comfort for passengers is also improved when running on battery power and, by eliminating the noise of a bus pulling away from the stop and the smell of the exhaust, pedestrians in the vicinity of bus stop will also notice the improvement,” Godbold said.

“The Scania diesel electric hybrid bus

marks a significant step-change in urban bus functionality and environmental benefits.

“The Scania hybrid’s ‘silent mode’ zero tailpipeemissions experience will be a revelation for drivers and passengers alike,” Godbold aid.

SHINING EXAMPLE A handover event of the first two of at least seven state-of-the-art hybrid buses being delivered as part of the Marshall Government’s next generation of lower-emissions Adelaide Metro buses took place today.

“We are building a better, cleaner and more environmentally friendly public transport network to support local jobs and encourage more people to leave their car at home and catch public transport,” South Australia Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, Corey Wingard, said.

“The first two Scania Hybrids to be part of the Adelaide Metro bus fleet have now rolled off the production line and will be ready for use across the bus network, including on the O-Bahn, in January after undergoing extensive acceptance testing.

“Pending the results of acceptance testing, it’s estimated this will result in a 15 per cent reduction in fuel consumption.

“These buses are a shining example of the innovative technology we have adopted for our new generation of Adelaide Metro buses, which will be more fuel efficient and have lower exhaust emissions than the buses they are replacing.”

The 340 new buses delivered under the contract will replace existing buses which are no longer fit for purpose or have reached the compulsory retirement age of 25 years, as required under the Passenger Transport Regulations 2009.

“Importantly, a minimum of 34 buses delivered each year will be built by Edinburgh-based Precision Buses at a critical time when jobs are needed most,” Minister Wingard said.

“Precision Buses has also created an Apprenticeship Academy and around 40 new jobs as a result of this bus supply contract.

“The adoption of the Scania Hybrid for the Adelaide Metro fleet has led to an increase in the number of employees at Precision Buses dedicated to bus body building.”

These two Scania Hybrid buses were the first ordered by the Department of Infrastructure and Transport, with a second order of five Scania Hybrids also in the preproduction stage.

The supply contract with Scania includes provisions to order additional hybrid buses and adapt to new technologies as they emerge over time.

All new buses are Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) compliant and have driver security screens, duress alarms, CCTV and a fire suppression system.

storage has been supporting Scania’s WA operations from July, 2021.

This facility is required to service the growing Scania on and off-road population, particularly among demanding applications such as Scania’s many mining customers for whom uptime, and therefore parts access, is critical, it says.

“We have taken this decision to expand our national and regional warehousing capacity as a result of the accelerated

growth of sales of trucks, buses and engines over the past decade - and therefore the expected demands for replacement and service parts for these vehicles and engines over the next decade and beyond,” said Scania Aftersales director, Patrik Tharna.

“We have doubled our truck sales and market share since 2010, and our bus market penetration remains extremely high, underscoring the need to supply many customers around the country with

ENVIRONMENTAL CREDENTIALS The Scania hybrid powertrain fitted to the new Adelaide buses has been designed to run for up to 4km on battery power alone, up to a maximum speed of 40km/h, Scania confirms.

Employing Scania’s 9.0-litre 320hp fivecylinder Euro 6 compliant diesel engine typically used across Australian bus fleets, and famed for its ‘torquey’ 1600Nm output, the hybrid further boosts its environmental credentials with a 177hp/1030Nm electric motor, both of which are seamlessly integrated with the Scania Opticruise transmission, it explains.

The diesel engine can fully charge its batteries while in driving mode in just 30 minutes, says Scania.

“Scania customers who monitor the data produced by their vehicles and drivers have a far clearer understanding about how their assets are being used.” level of ‘first pick’ of spare and replacement parts, underpinning its promise of exceptional uptime for customers, it explains.

The largest investment secures additional capacity for spare parts storage and dispatch at a new 9,000 square metre warehouse that opened in September, 2021, it states.

Located close to the company’s Campbellfield, Victoria, headquarters, it is substantially bigger than the existing Scania National Parts Warehouse, which opened in 1992.

WEST SIDE The second investment is in a new standalone warehouse facility in Perth, where 2,000 square metres of parts busnews.com.au

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CHASSIS & BODIES

SCANIA

“With this added capacity for partsholdings, we anticipate being able to provide more parts, more quickly to more customers from these new warehouses.” a reliable flow of parts, as well as the additional service capacity we are adding with our new company-owned branch at Eastern Creek.

“We live in an increasingly uncertain world and we have all seen over the past year the impact on long-distance supply chains during a pandemic.

“With this added capacity for parts-holdings, we anticipate being able to provide more parts, more quickly to more customers from these new warehouses,” he said.

SOUTHERN COMFORT

Above: Customers can currently monitor their vehicles based on engine or fuel use. With increasing electrification of transport, further milestones are on the horizon, Scania states.

Below: Ben Nicholson (L), national parts logistics and inventory manager and Patrik Tharna, aftersales director for Scania Australia, at the new national parts warehouse in Campbellfield, Victoria.

“With the addition of the new regional warehouse in Perth, we will also build some additional resilience into our supply chain within Australia,” Nicholson said.

When the new warehouses are online, we will improve spare parts availability reducing lead times, as well as being better at pre-picking kits to provide superior support to our own and our authorised independent dealer workshop operations,” he said.

“The expansion of our warehousing infrastructure will also require us to further grow the number of Scania employees working in Australia, and we are now well over the 500 mark,” Tharna added.

“And in line with Scania’s global and local drive towards a sustainable transport solution, the new national warehouse comes equipped with solar panels on the roof.

“We will take all opportunities to continue to reduce our carbon footprint,” he stated.

When Corona hit last year, Scania increased parts stocks at its National Warehouse in Victoria and at branch warehouses around the country to build resilience in case of major supply chain disruptions, it says.

Scania also secured capability to deliver directly to workshops and customers from other warehouses in Europe and Asia, it adds.

However, production capacity and container availability had, and still has, impacted on spare parts availability.

“The new national warehouse in Melbourne will allow even more stock to be located in Australia to counter the negative effect Corona has had on global supply chains and make us more independent,” said Ben Nicholson, national parts manager for Australia, and the aftersales team member responsible for the warehouse capacity expansion project.

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MAKE: SCANIA

MODEL: K 310

ADDRESS:

WEB:

Scania Australia 212-216 Northbourne Road, Campbellfield, VIC, 3061 Phone: 03 9217 3300

www.scania.com.au

SERIES: IB 4X2 A30

MAKE: SCANIA

MODEL: K 360

SERIES: IB 4X2 TOURING

APPLICATION: CHARTER – LONG DISTANCE, SCHOOL

APPLICATION: CHARTER – LONG DISTANCE, SCHOOL CHASSIS DIMENSIONS:

BODY OPTIONS:

CHASSIS DIMENSIONS:

BODY OPTIONS:

Chassis Length (metres)

12.3

Wheelchair Lift Access

Optional

Chassis Length (metres)

12.3

Wheelchair Lift Access

Optional

Chassis Wheelbase (mm)

5850

CD/PA/Radio

Yes

Chassis Wheelbase (mm)

5850

CD/PA/Radio

Yes

Chassis Front Overhang (mm)

2800

DVD/TV

Optional

2800

DVD/TV

Optional

Toilet

No

Chassis Front Overhang (mm)

Toilet

Optional

Individual Reading Lights

Yes

Individual Reading Lights

Yes

Individual AC Vents

Yes

Individual AC Vents

Yes

Reverse Camera

Yes

Chassis Rear Overhang 3350 (mm) Chassis Turning Circle Diameter (metres)

25

ENGINE: Make / Model

Scania/DC9 110

Configuration

5 cylinder

Power (HP / kW)

310/228 (SCR only)

Reverse Camera

Yes

Chassis Rear Overhang 3350 (mm) Chassis Turning Circle Diameter (metres)

25

ENGINE: Make / Model

Scania/DC9 112

Other (please specify) Xenon headlights

Configuration

5 cylinder

SEATING:

Power (HP / kW)

360/265 (SCR only)

Torque (Nm)

1700 @ 1100-1350

Bore and Stroke

130 x 140

Compression Ratio

17.1

Seating Capacity

49-61

Torque (Nm)

1550 @ 1100-1350

Bore and Stroke

130 x 140

Compression Ratio

17.1

Fuel Capacity (litres)

310

Recliners

Fuel Capacity (litres)

465

Oil Capacity (litres)

31

Metro

Oil Capacity (litres)

31

Emissions

Euro 5

SEATING OPTIONS:

Emissions

Euro 6

Passenger Capacity

49-61

Fixed Coach

Fixed Coach, Recliners, Metro

Seating Make

TRANSMISSION:

Seating Model

Automatic Trans Make/ ZF/6AP 1700 B Automatic/6 Model/ Description speed Manual Trans Make/ Model/ Description

Scania/GR875R/8 Speed Fully Automated Manual Transmission with Retarder

SUSPENSION: Type – Front

2 x air bellow

Type – Rear

4 x air bellow

BRAKES:

Seatbelts

Air

Retarding Brake System

Scania retarder / ZF retarder

EBS

Yes

BODY DIMENSIONS:

Fixed Coach, Recliners, Metro

Metro

SEATING OPTIONS:

n/a

n/a

Optional

Automatic Trans Make/ ZF/6AP 1700 B Automatic/6 Model/ Description speed

Seatbelts

Optional

Manual Trans Make/ Model/ Description

AXLES:

AXLES: Front Make / Model / Desc.

Scania/AMA 860/I-Beam

Rear Make / Model / Desc.

Scania/ADA/ R660

STORAGE: Thru Bins

No Yes

Internal Luggage Bins Yes

AIR-CONDITIONING:

2.5

Air-Conditioning Make

Body Height (metres)

3.5

Scania Chassis 2021.indd 89

Fixed Coach

Customer choice

Body Width (metres)

busnews.com.au

49-61

Seating Model

12.3

NS

49-61

Passenger Capacity

Seating Make

Body Length (metres)

Body Weight (kg)

Seating Capacity

TRANSMISSION:

Air-Conditioning Standard

Body Floor Height (mm) 1217

SEATING:

Recliners

Customer choice

Side Bins

Service Brakes

Other (please specify) NS

Yes Konvekta

Air-Conditioning Model KL85T

Scania/GR875R/8 Speed Fully Automated Manual Transmission with Retarder

SUSPENSION:

Front Make / Model / Desc.

Scania/AMA 860/I-Beam Scania/ADA/ R660

Type – Front

2 x air bellow

Rear Make / Model / Desc.

Type – Rear

4 x air bellow

STORAGE:

BRAKES: Service Brakes

Air

Retarding Brake System

Scania retarder / ZF retarder

EBS

Yes

Side Bins

No

Thru Bins

Yes

Internal Luggage Bins Yes

AIR-CONDITIONING:

BODY DIMENSIONS: Body Length (metres)

12.3

Body Width (metres)

2.5

Body Height (metres)

3.8

Air-Conditioning Standard

Yes

Air-Conditioning Make

Konvekta

Air-Conditioning Model KL85T

Body Floor Height (mm) 1517 Body Weight (kg)

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CHASSIS

MAKE: SCANIA

SCANIA

MODEL: K 310/320

ADDRESS:

WEB:

Scania Australia 212-216 Northbourne Road, Campbellfield, VIC, 3061 Phone: 03 9217 3300

www.scania.com.au

SERIES: UB 4X2

APPLICATION: CITY – ROUTE

MAKE: SCANIA MODEL: K 310/360

SERIES: IB 4X2

APPLICATION: CHARTER – LONG DISTANCE, SCHOOL

DIMENSIONS:

K310

K320

DIMENSIONS:

K310

K360

Length (metres)

9 (buggie)

8.55 (buggie)

Length (metres)

8.55 (buggie)

8.55 (buggie)

Wheelbase (mm)

3000

3000

Wheelbase (mm)

3000 buggie

3000

Front Overhang (mm)

2500 - 2700

2500 - 2700

Front Overhang (mm)

2275 - 2500

2500 - 2700

Rear Overhang (mm)

3290

3280

Rear Overhang (mm)

3290

3280

Turning Circle Diameter (metres)

23

23

Turning Circle Diameter (metres)

23

23

ENGINE:

K310

K320

ENGINE:

K310

K320

Make/Model

Scania/DC9 110 Euro 5

Scania/DC9 108 Euro 6

Make/Model

Scania/DC9 110 Euro 5

Scania/DC9 112

Configuration

5 cylinder

5 cylinder

Configuration

5 cylinder

5 cylinder

Power (hp/kW)

310/228 (SCR only)

320/235 (SCR only)

Power (hp/kW)

310/228 (SCR only)

360/265 (SCR only)

Torque (Nm)

1550Nm @ 1100 - 1350rpm

1600Nm @ 1050 - 1300rpm

Torque (Nm)

1550Nm @ 1100 - 1350rpm

1700Nm @ 1100 - 1350rpm

Oil Capacity (litres)

31

31

Oil Capacity (litres)

31

31

FUEL SOURCE / CAP:

K310

K320

FUEL SOURCE / CAP:

K310

K360

Type

Diesel

Diesel

Type

Diesel

Diesel

Capacity (litres)

300 (approx)

Body Builder

Capacity (litres)

310 (approx)

465

TRANSMISSION:

TRANSMISSION:

Manual Model / Type

NS/NS/NS

Auto Model / Type

ZF/6AP 1700 B Automatic/6 speed

AXLES: Type – Front

Scania/AMA 780/Fixed I-Beam

Type – Rear

Scania/R660/Rated at 12,000kg. 4.88:1 diff ratio

SUSPENSION: Type – Front

I-Beam - 2 x airbags rated at 7100kg

Type – Rear

4 x airbags rated at 12000kg

BRAKES: Service Brakes

Disc

Retarding Brake System

Yes

EBS

Yes

ELECTRONIC SYSTEM: Alternator

2x 150 amp

Starter

5 Hp

Batteries

2x 12 volt 230Ah

WHEELS & TYRES: Type

Steel Rims / Polished Alloy Option

Rim Size

8.25 x 22.5

CLUTCH: Model/Type

NS/NS

Diameter (mm)

NS

Control

NS

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Manual Model / Type

Scania/GR875R/8 Speed Fully Automated Manual Transmission with Retarder

Auto Model / Type

ZF/6AP 1700 B Automatic/6 speed

AXLES: Type – Front

Scania/AMA 860/Fixed I-Beam

Type – Rear

Scania/R660/Rated at 12,000kg. 4.88:1 diff ratio (Auto Trans) / 3.07:1 diff ratio (Man Trans)

SUSPENSION: Type – Front

I-Beam - 2 x airbags rated at 7500kg

Type – Rear

4 x airbags rated at 12000kg

BRAKES: Service Brakes

Disc

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

CLUTCH: Model/Type

K432 (Man Trans)/Pull

Diameter (mm)

430mm

Control

Sachs

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MAKE: SCANIA

MODEL: K 440/450

ADDRESS:

WEB:

Scania Australia 212-216 Northbourne Road, Campbellfield, VIC, 3061 Phone: 03 9217 3300

www.scania.com.au

SERIES: EB6X2*4

APPLICATION: LONG DISTANCE

MAKE: SCANIA

MODEL: K320UB HYBRID

APPLICATION: CITY – ROUTE

DIMENSIONS:

K440

K450

DIMENSIONS:

Length (metres)

10 (buggie)

10 (buggie)

Length (metres)

8.55 (buggie)

Wheelbase (mm)

3000 buggie

3000 buggie

Wheelbase (mm)

3000

Front Overhang (mm)

2500

2500

Front Overhang (mm)

2500 - 2700

Rear Overhang (mm)

4355

4385

Rear Overhang (mm)

3280

Turning Circle Diameter (metres)

24

24

Turning Circle Diameter (metres)

23

ENGINE:

K440

K450

ENGINE:

Make/Model

Scania/DC13 05 Euro 5

Scania/DC13 124 Euro 6

Make/Model

Scania/DC9 108 Euro 6

Configuration

6 cylinder

6 cylinder

Configuration

5 cylinder

Power (hp/kW)

440/324 (SCR only)

450/331 (SCR only)

Power (hp/kW)

320/235 (SCR only)

Torque (Nm)

2300Nm @ 1100 - 1350rpm

2350Nm @ 1000 - 1300rpm

Torque (Nm)

1600Nm @ 1050 - 1300rpm

Oil Capacity (litres)

43

43

Oil Capacity (litres)

31

FUEL SOURCE / CAP:

K440

K450

FUEL SOURCE / CAP:

Type

Diesel

Diesel

Type

Diesel

Capacity (litres)

Body Builder

Body Builder

Capacity (litres)

Body Builder

TRANSMISSION: Manual Model / Type Auto Model / Type

TRANSMISSION: Scania/GRSO895R/12 Speed Fully Automated Manual Transmission with Retarder NS/NS/NS

AXLES: Type – Front

Scania/AMI 700D/Independent

Type – Rear

Scania/R660/Rated at 12000kg with 3.07:1 diff ratio

SUSPENSION: Type – Front

Independent – 2 x airbags rated at 7,500kg

Type – Rear

6 x airbags rated at 17500kg

BRAKES:

Manual Model / Type

NS/NS/NS

Auto Model / Type

E–GRS895 12 speed OPTICRUISE

AXLES: Type – Front

Scania/AMA 780/Fixed I-Beam

Type – Rear

Scania/R660/Rated at 12,000kg. 3.42:1 diff ratio

SUSPENSION: Type – Front

I-Beam - 2 x airbags rated at 7100kg

Type – Rear

4 x airbags rated at 12000kg

BRAKES:

Service Brakes

Service Brakes

Disc

Disc

Retarding Brake System

Retarding Brake System

Yes

Yes

EBS

EBS

Yes

Yes

ELECTRONIC SYSTEM:

ELECTRONIC SYSTEM:

Alternator

Hybrid Inverter

Hybrid Inverter

2x 150 amp

Starter

Starter

5 Hp

5 Hp

Batteries

Batteries

4 x 12 volt

2x 12 volt 230Ah

WHEELS & TYRES: Type

Polished Alloy Rim

Rim Size

8.25 x 22.5

CLUTCH:

WHEELS & TYRES: Type

Steel Rims / Polished Alloy Option

Rim Size

8.25 x 22.5

CLUTCH:

Model/Type

Model/Type

K432/PULL

K432/Pull

Diameter (mm)

Diameter (mm)

430mm

430mm

Control

Control

SACHS

Sachs

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CHASSIS

MAKE: SCANIA

SCANIA

MODEL: K 320C

ADDRESS:

WEB:

Scania Australia 212-216 Northbourne Road, Campbellfield, VIC, 3061 Phone: 03 9217 3300

www.scania.com.au

SERIES: 4X2 LB

MAKE: SCANIA MODEL: K 320C/360C

SERIES: 4X2 NB

APPLICATION: CITY – ROUTE

APPLICATION: CHARTER – LONG DISTANCE, SCHOOL

DIMENSIONS:

K320C

DIMENSIONS:

K320C

K360C

Length (metres)

8.55 (buggie)

Length (metres)

8.55 (buggie)

8.55 (buggie)

Wheelbase (mm)

3000

Wheelbase (mm)

3000 buggie

3000

Front Overhang (mm)

2500 - 2700

Front Overhang (mm)

2500 - 2700

2500 - 2700

Rear Overhang (mm)

3280

Rear Overhang (mm)

3280

3280

Turning Circle Diameter (metres)

23

Turning Circle Diameter (metres)

23

23

ENGINE:

K320C

ENGINE:

K320C

K360C

Make/Model

Scania DC09 140 Euro 6

Make/Model

Scania DC09 140 Euro 6

Scania DC09 141 Euro 6

Configuration

5 cylinder

Configuration

5 cylinder

5 cylinder

Power (hp/kW)

320/235 (SCR only)

Power (hp/kW)

320/235 (SCR only)

360/265 (SCR only)

Torque (Nm)

1600Nm @ 1050 - 1400rpm

Torque (Nm)

1600Nm @ 1050 - 1400rpm

1700Nm @ 1050 - 1475rpm

Oil Capacity (litres)

31

Oil Capacity (litres)

31

31

FUEL SOURCE / CAP:

K320C

FUEL SOURCE / CAP:

K320C

K360C

Type

Diesel

Type

Diesel

Diesel

Capacity (litres)

Body Builder

Capacity (litres)

310 (approx)

310 - 465

TRANSMISSION:

TRANSMISSION:

Manual Model / Type

NS/NS/NS

Auto Model / Type

ZF 6AP1620B Automatic 6 speed

AXLES: Type – Front

Scania AM580SA Fixed I-Beam

Type – Rear

Scania AD400SA R660 with 4.88:1 diff ratio

SUSPENSION: Type – Front

2 x airbags with anti-roll bar - rated at 8,200kg

Type – Rear

4 x airbags with anti-roll bar - rated at 12,000kg

BRAKES: Service Brakes

Disc with ABS

Retarding Brake System

Yes

EBS

Yes

ELECTRONIC SYSTEM: Alternator

2x 150 amp

Starter

5 Hp

Batteries

2x 12 volt 230Ah

WHEELS & TYRES: Type

Steel Rims / Polished Alloy Option

Rim Size

8.25 x 22.5

CLUTCH: Model/Type

NS/NS

Diameter (mm)

NS

Control

NS

92

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Scania Chassis 2021.indd 92

Manual Model / Type

Scania GRS895R 12 Speed Fully Automated Manual Transmission with Retarder

Auto Model / Type

ZF 6AP1620B Automatic 6 speed

AXLES: Type – Front

Scania AM580SA Fixed I-Beam

Type – Rear

Scania AD400SA R660 with 4.88:1 diff ratio (Auto Trans) 3.07:1 diff ratio (Man Trans)

SUSPENSION: Type – Front

2 x airbags with anti-roll bar - rated at 8,200kg

Type – Rear

4 x airbags with anti-roll bar - rated at 12,000kg

BRAKES: Service Brakes

Disc with ABS

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

CLUTCH: Model/Type

K432 (Man Trans)/Pull

Diameter (mm)

430mm

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MAKE: SCANIA

MODEL: K 410C/450C

ADDRESS:

WEB:

Scania Australia 212-216 Northbourne Road, Campbellfield, VIC, 3061 Phone: 03 9217 3300

www.scania.com.au

SERIES: 6X2*4 NI

APPLICATION: LONG DISTANCE

MAKE: SCANIA

MODEL: K 320C/360C

SERIES: 4X2 NI

APPLICATION: CHARTER – LONG DISTANCE, SCHOOL

DIMENSIONS:

K410C

K450C

DIMENSIONS:

K320C

K360C

Length (metres)

10 (buggie)

10 (buggie)

Length (metres)

8.55 (buggie)

8.55 (buggie)

Wheelbase (mm)

3000 buggie

3000 buggie

Wheelbase (mm)

3000 buggie

3000

Front Overhang (mm)

2500

2500

Front Overhang (mm)

2500 - 2700

2500 - 2700

Rear Overhang (mm)

4385

4385

Rear Overhang (mm)

3280

3280

Turning Circle Diameter (metres)

24

24

Turning Circle Diameter (metres)

23

23

ENGINE:

K410C

K450C

ENGINE:

K320C

K360C

Make/Model

Scania DC13 163 Euro 6

Scania DC13 164 Euro 6

Make/Model

Scania DC09 140 Euro 6

Scania DC09 141 Euro 6

Configuration

6 cylinder

6 cylinder

Configuration

5 cylinder

5 cylinder

Power (hp/kW)

410/302 (SCR only)

450/331 (SCR only)

Power (hp/kW)

320/235 (SCR only)

360/265 (SCR only)

Torque (Nm)

2150Nm @ 900 - 1340rpm

2350Nm @ 900 - 1340rpm

Torque (Nm)

1600Nm @ 1050 - 1400rpm

1700Nm @ 1050 - 1475rpm

Oil Capacity (litres)

43

43

Oil Capacity (litres)

31

31

FUEL SOURCE / CAP:

K410C

K450C

FUEL SOURCE / CAP:

K320C

K360C

Type

Diesel

Diesel

Type

Diesel

Diesel

Capacity (litres)

Body Builder

Body Builder

Capacity (litres)

310 (approx)

310 - 465

TRANSMISSION:

TRANSMISSION:

Manual Model / Type

Scania GRSO895R 12 Speed Fully Automated Manual Transmission with Overdrive and Retarder

Manual Model / Type

Scania GRS895R 12 Speed Fully Automated Manual Transmission with Retarder

Auto Model / Type

NS/NS/NS

Auto Model / Type

ZF 6AP1620B Automatic 6 speed

AXLES:

AXLES:

Type – Front

Scania AMI580SA-N Independent

Type – Front

Scania AMI580SA-N Independent

Type – Rear

Scania AD400SA R660 with 3.07:1 diff ratio

Type – Rear

Scania AD400SA R660 with 4.88:1 diff ratio (Auto Trans) 3.07:1 diff ratio (Man Trans)

Type – Front

2 x airbags with anti-roll bar - rated at 8,200kg

SUSPENSION:

Type – Rear

6 x airbags with anti-roll bar - rated at 17,500kg

Type – Front

2 x airbags with anti-roll bar - rated at 8,200kg

Type – Rear

4 x airbags with anti-roll bar - rated at 12,000kg

SUSPENSION:

BRAKES: Service Brakes

Disc with ABS

BRAKES:

Retarding Brake System

Yes

Service Brakes

Disc with ABS

Yes

Retarding Brake System

Yes

EBS

Yes

EBS

ELECTRONIC SYSTEM: Alternator

2x 150 amp

ELECTRONIC SYSTEM:

Starter

5 Hp

Alternator

2x 150 amp

2x 12 volt 230Ah

Starter

5 Hp

Batteries

2x 12 volt 230Ah

Batteries

WHEELS & TYRES: Type

Polished Alloy Rim

WHEELS & TYRES:

Rim Size

8.25 x 22.5

Type

Polished Alloy Rim

Rim Size

8.25 x 22.5

CLUTCH: Model/Type

K432/Pull

CLUTCH:

Diameter (mm)

430mm

Model/Type

K432/Pull

Sachs

Diameter (mm)

430mm

Control

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CHASSIS & BODIES

YUTONG

E12 TRIAL SUCCESS

No fewer than 12 Australian operators have successfully trialled a localised variant of Yutong’s globally prolific E12 electric bus, with more than 500,000km collectively amassed during trials and in service locally plus more successful trials still ongoing, Yutong Australia reports.

WORDS FABIAN COTTER IMAGES COURTESY YUTONG

A

range of Australasian bus operators of varying sizes – from very large fleets, such as Brisbane City Council, to many smaller, family run urban fleets in New South Wales and Queensland – have now taken part, with many more keen to experience battery-electric bus technology in their own environments, the company confirms.

In surpassing its e-bus distance milestone of 500,000km in Australia, Yutong highlights that this has provided an enormous amount of useful data to operators, state transport departments and, of course, to the Yutong R&D team, which has been verified by the operators themselves using the comprehensive on-board ‘Vehicle+’ telematics system that comes standard with each E12 vehicle.

which it agreed to sight as ‘commercial in confidence’.

The bus data reports were typical examples of the reports that operators of the E12 BEV are able to create and can see in real time using the Yutong Vehicle + telematics system, included in every E12.

Yutong in Australia was keen to highlight an operator’s ability to monitor driver performance as another feature available to them to help reduce operating costs though conceding, “….a little bit of driver coaching would certainly have improved the results you see attached.

“Many drivers need to modify their driving style to take maximum advantage of [e-motor electricity] ‘regeneration’ to slow the bus and return energy to the battery,” Young explained.

Additionally, to further validate the

findings, ABC magazine sought feedback from a range of bus operators that are using or have trialled the Yutong E12, and the overall feedback largely reflected positively on the experience, it was noted.

CASE STUDIES Transit Systems, NSW – Robert Rachwal, NSW fleet and asset manager “The Yutong E12 bus, which we’ve been operating since mid-2019. is based at our Leichhardt depot, in inner Sydney.”

“The E12 operates routes in our Region 6 contract area, which covers the Inner West and inner city areas.

“Some routes also extend into the east and across the [Sydney] Harbour Bridge to the lower North Shore.

“The E12 has proven to be reliable. The battery performance and regeneration has

TENDER OPTION According to the national sales manager for Yutong in Australia, Warren Young, it is not only the savings in running costs that are of interest, but also the overwhelmingly positive feedback from drivers and passengers alike, with greatly reduced levels of noise, vibration, increased smoothness and comfort all common responses.

“The fact is our E12 has proven extremely reliable, efficient and easy for drivers to adapt to that has resulted in overwhelmingly positive comments from operators, with many having now placed orders and, in some cases, already taken delivery of multiple Yutong E12 buses,” Young explained.

“We are ideally placed to offer large numbers of these vehicles very quickly, at a price that gives operators an advantage – especially if they are tendering for contracts using a ‘cost plus’ model.

“We also have the parts, service facilities and arrangements to provide the product support that is so important,” he added.

DATA AND RESULTS To verify such claims and results, ABC magazine was given exclusive access to E12 performance data, 94

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exceeded our expectations.

“The E12 operates in a mainly undulating environment. Because our routes service a wide area of inner Sydney, it can experience varied conditions in the Inner West, a relatively flat environment in the Central Business District, and the winding, hilly streets in the Eastern Suburbs. It appears to be handling these conditions quite well.

“Customer feedback for electric vehicles has been positive, and it is certainly noticed and well-received by those travelling onboard the bus, as well as pedestrians who enjoy the quieter operation.

“Our operating area has very high patronage, and the E12 regularly operates on busy routes, which experience large volumes of customer traffic,” Rachwal explained.

“It has operated at capacity on occasion, especially during peak times.

“The battery performance and regeneration has exceeded our expectations.

“Costs are considerably lower than those of a diesel bus.

“Because we operate in the narrow streets of inner Sydney, mirrors on our buses are occasionally damaged by passing vehicles.

“We’ve noticed that repairs to the mirrors and mirror arms on the E12 are more expensive compared to other vehicles in our fleet, so it would be good if cost-effective improvements could be made in this area.”

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Interline, NSW – Joe Oliveri, manager and director “We received the first of nine units in April 2021 with the balance of the vehicles staged in delivery with the last received in June; they are servicing the Campbelltown to Liverpool area.

“The vehicles have exceeded my expectation.

There is always some hesitancy with new products, but from the first day that was overcome with the vehicle going directly into the longest shifts without issue. The lower

Above: Driver and passenger feedback says there are greatly reduced levels of noise, vibration, increased smoothness and comfort.

Below: In surpassing its e-bus distance milestone of 500,000km in Australia, Yutong says the data received will be useful to operators.

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CHASSIS & BODIES

YUTONG

“We have included this as our draft pick vehicle for the airport tender in Wellington – [as] it meets our requirements for this region.” (Note: it’s the E13 that’s been spec’d to meet tender.)

“Our E12 has proven extremely reliable, efficient and easy for drivers to adapt to.”

Above: In comparison to a diesel bus the operating costs of the E12 were dramatically lower.

Below: The E12 proved itself across a range of topography and in varying temperatures.

96

maintenance requirements allow the vehicle to remain in service with little down time.

“The vehicles are in full service with no passenger or driver complaints. On the contrary, the feedback was more than positive with the quietness of the vehicle the biggest compliment.

“The batteries have performed well with the vehicle meeting our shifting requirements. We are working on our depot smart charging system that is an ever-learning experience, which I was always expecting to have as we learn from each update and upgrade we make. I am very happy with the savings the vehicles are making across the services they complete.

“I couldn’t ask for any more from the Yutong team; they have been extremely supportive from the planning stage to the vehicle’s delivery, driver training and maintenance staff training. As with any new product there will always be teething items that will have questions and [the] team works with me at any time of the day – and I mean anytime – as vehicles don’t return from service until as late as 11:30pm. They are one phone call away.

“The Yutong E12s are now my benchmark vehicle with more on order. I have trialled a number of others that have fallen short of the Yutong E12, both in product and support,” confirmed Oliveri.

Transdev Australasia, Victoria – Marc Cleave, head of engineering Running across the Wellington (NZ) metro area for 267 days and 24,369km, Cleave said that: “The kW/km level has been good and the local team have had very little issues with the vehicle.

With mixed topography and a range of seasonal operating temperatures, he added: “The E12 bus performs, from a battery perspective, in line with [Yutong’s] degeneration curve for this short trial meeting expectations.”

“The local team have been very supportive and response times for vehicle servicing and information has been very good.

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Premier Transport, NSW – John King, managing director “The Premier Transport Group trialled the Yutong E12 at our Nowra Coaches operation for approximately three months commencing January, 2019.

“At the time this was the first Yutong E12 to be trialled/operated in Australia, hence we had no pre-set expectations or comparative data.

During the trial the E12 impressed everyone in our organisation in relation to reliability and performance considering this was the first time it had been operated in Australian conditions.

“The trial was operated on a rail supplementary service between Kiama Station and Bomaderry Station on the NSW south coast. The run was predominantly flat highway with several undulations and one steep hill. Approximately 90 per cent of the trial was conducted on the Princess Highway at posted speeds between 80 and 100km/h. The Yutong E12 bus handled these conditions exceptionally well.

“As part of the trial KPIs [key performance indicators], a passenger survey was conducted, which was overwhelmingly positive. Responses included praise for the smooth and particularly quiet service.

“The trial was conducted in direct comparison with a diesel bus and the operating costs of the E12 were dramatically lower. Once the charging system was installed the process of depot charging was extremely simple and the electricity usage was constant throughout the trial.

“Throughout the trial Yutong was extremely supportive supplying the vehicle and technicians to assist with the implementation and operation.”

Red Bus Services, NSW – John Shore, depot and fleet manager Red Bus Services trialled the E12 for four weeks on the NSW Central Coast and found it “very impressive,” Shore confirmed.

“The feedback from our community was very positive. Likewise, our drivers were also very supportive of the trial and complimentary of the Yutong bus.

“It completed our 377km run no worries, but we were only charging on 50 Amps during the trial, so charging would be much quicker with a permanent system.

“Other than a little bit of body roll that has now been addressed, no other [issues].

“It was a trial and, unfortunately, TfNSW have now rejected our submission to purchase, which is disappointing.”

On that point, given the recent NSW government ministerial changes, any updates on this issue will be forthcoming. busnews.com.au

12/10/21 1:58 pm

ADDRESS:

WEB:

Yutong Bus Head Office: 34 Mount Erin Road, Campbelltown, NSW, Australia, 2560

www.yutong.com.au Sales Enquires: Warren Young Phone: (02) 8007 6310 Mobile: 0407 993 972 Email: warren.young@yutong.com.au

CAT/2- (TfNSW Approved)

CAT/3 - (TfNSW Approved)

MAKE: YUTONG

MAKE: YUTONG

MODEL: D7

APPLICATION: SCHOOL/CHARTER/COACH

APPLICATION: SCHOOL/CHARTER/COACH CHASSIS DIMENSIONS:

BODY OPTIONS:

Chassis Length (mm)

7730

Wheelchair Lift Access

Chassis Wheelbase (mm)

4150

Chassis Front Overhang (mm)

1210

Chassis Rear Overhang 2315 (mm) Chassis Turning Circle Diameter (metres)

≤ 18

ENGINE: Make / Model

D4 .5EV1D190

Configuration

Turbocharge, Intercool

Power (HP / kW)

190 / 140

MODEL: D9

CHASSIS DIMENSIONS:

BODY OPTIONS:

Optional

Chassis Length (mm)

9400

CD/PA/Radio

Standard

4600

Wheelchair Lift Access

Optional

Chassis Wheelbase (mm)

CD/PA/Radio

Standard

DVD/TV

Standard

Chassis Front Overhang (mm)

1935

DVD/TV

Standard

Toilet

N/A

Chassis Rear Overhang 2760 (mm)

Toilet

Optional

Chassis Turning Circle Diameter (metres)

Individual Reading Lights

Standard

Individual AC Vents

Standard Standard

Individual Reading Lights Standard Individual AC Vents

Standard

Reverse Camera

Standard

MobilEYE, 7x Camera System, 360° Camera System, ABS, ASR, ESC

Standard

SEATING:

≤ 20

ENGINE: Make / Model

Cummins (UK) ISB6.7E5250

Reverse Camera

Configuration

Turbocharge, Intercool

Other (please specify) Standard

Power (HP / kW)

250 / 184

SEATING:

Torque (Nm)

950 @ 1200RPM

Seating Capacity

40 / 44

Passenger Capacity

39 / 43

Fixed Coach

Standard Fixed ADR68

Torque (Nm)

700 @ 1200RPM

Seating Capacity

Bore and Stroke

107/124

Passenger Capacity

27 / 28

Bore and Stroke

107/124

Compression Ratio

17.1 : 1

Fixed Coach

Standard Fixed ADR68

Compression Ratio

17.1 : 2

Fuel Capacity (litres)

140

Fuel Capacity (litres)

200

Oil Capacity (litres)

21.6

Oil Capacity (litres)

20

Emissions

Euro V

Emissions

Euro VI

28 / 29

SEATING OPTIONS: Seating Make

Yutong

Seating Model

YTHO5

Seatbelts

Standard

TRANSMISSION:

AXLES:

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

Front Make / Model / Desc.

Dongfeng 3T Disc Brake

Manual Trans Make/ Model/ Description

Rear Make / Model / Desc.

Dongfeng 6T Drum Brake

N/A

SUSPENSION:

STORAGE:

Type – Front

Leaf Spring Suspension

Type – Rear

Leaf Spring Suspension

BRAKES: Service Brakes

Front Disc / Rear

Retarding Brake System

Yes

EBS

Standard

BODY DIMENSIONS:

Side Bins

No

Thru Bins

No

Internal Luggage Bins No

AIR-CONDITIONING:

SEATING OPTIONS: YTHO5

Seatbelts

Standard

AXLES: Front Make / Model / Desc.

Yutong 4.5T Disc Brake

Manual Trans

N/A

Rear Make / Model / Desc.

Yutong 9.5T Drum Brake

Type – Front

Two spring electronically controlled air suspension

STORAGE:

Type – Rear

Four spring electronically controlled air suspension

SUSPENSION:

Side Bins

No

Thru Bins

Yes

Internal Luggage Bins No

BRAKES: Service Brakes

Front Disc / Rear Disc

AIR-CONDITIONING:

Yes

Air-Conditioning Standard

Heat/Cool

Standard

Air-Conditioning Make

Cling

Air-Cond Std

Heat/Cool

Retarding Brake System

Air-Cond Make

Cling

EBS

Air-Cond Model

PZD-II

BODY DIMENSIONS: Body Length (mm)

9400

Body Width (mm)

2410

Body Width (mm)

2500

Body Height (mm)

3170

Body Height (mm)

3440

Body Floor Height (mm) 710

Body Floor Height (mm) 900

Body Weight (kg)

Body Weight (kg)

Yutong C&B 2021.indd 97

Seating Model

Automatic Trans Make/ Allison T350R Model/ Description

7730

busnews.com.au

Yutong

TRANSMISSION:

Body Length (mm)

N/A

Seating Make

Air-Conditioning Model LFDR-04

N/A

ABC 2021 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

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11/10/21 8:37 pm

CHASSIS & BODIES

YUTONG

ADDRESS:

WEB:

Yutong Bus Head Office: 34 Mount Erin Road, Campbelltown, NSW, Australia, 2560

www.yutong.com.au Sales Enquires: Warren Young Phone: (02) 8007 6310 Mobile: 0407 993 972 Email: warren.young@yutong.com.au

CAT/4 - (TfNSW Approved)

MAKE: YUTONG

MAKE: YUTONG

MODEL: D12

MODEL: T12

APPLICATION: COACH/CHARTER & LONG DISTANCE

APPLICATION: SCHOOL/CHARTER/COACH CHASSIS DIMENSIONS:

BODY OPTIONS:

CHASSIS DIMENSIONS:

BODY OPTIONS:

Chassis Length (mm)

12445

Optional

Chassis Length (mm)

12245

6500

CD/PA/Radio

Standard

Chassis Wheelbase (mm)

6090

Wheelchair Lift Access

Optional

Chassis Wheelbase (mm)

Wheelchair Lift Access

CD/PA/Radio

Standard

Chassis Front Overhang (mm)

2620

DVD/TV

Standard

Chassis Front Overhang (mm)

2620

DVD/TV

Standard

Chassis Rear Overhang 3330 (mm)

Toilet

Optional

Chassis Rear Overhang 3330 (mm)

Toilet

Optional

Chassis Turning Circle Diameter (metres)

Individual Reading Lights

Standard

Chassis Turning Circle Diameter (metres)

Individual Reading Lights

Standard

Individual AC Vents

Standard

Individual AC Vents

Standard Standard

≤ 22

ENGINE:

≤ 23

ENGINE:

Make / Model

Cummins (UK) ISL8.9E5360

Reverse Camera

Standard

Make / Model

Mercedes-Benz - OM457LA

Reverse Camera

Configuration

Turbocharge, Intercool

Other (please specify) Standard

Configuration

Turbocharge, Intercool

Other (please specify) Standard

Power (HP / kW)

360 / 265

SEATING:

Power (HP / kW)

350 / 260

SEATING:

Torque (Nm)

1600 @ 1200RPM

Seating Capacity

54 / 58

Torque (Nm)

1850 @ 1100RPM

Seating Capacity

54

Passenger Capacity

53 / 57

Passenger Capacity

53

Fixed Coach

Standard Fixed ADR68

Fixed Coach

Standard Fixed ADR68

Bore and Stroke

114/144.5

Compression Ratio

16.6 : 1

Fuel Capacity (litres)

270

Oil Capacity (litres)

23

Emissions

Euro V

SEATING OPTIONS: Seating Make

Yutong

Seating Model

YTHO5

Seatbelts

Standard

Bore and Stroke

128/155

Compression Ratio

18.5 : 1

Fuel Capacity (litres)

410

Oil Capacity (litres)

39

Emissions

Euro V

SEATING OPTIONS: Seating Make

Yutong

Seating Model

YTHO5

Seatbelts

Standard

TRANSMISSION:

AXLES:

TRANSMISSION:

AXLES:

Automatic Trans Make/ Allison T390R Model/ Description

Front Make / Model / Desc.

Meritor 13T Disc Brake

Automatic Trans Make/ ZF Ecolife Model/ Description

Front Make / Model / Desc.

ZF 7.5T Disc Brake

Manual Trans

Rear Make / Model / Desc.

Meritor 6.6T Disc Brake

Manual Trans

N/A

Rear Make / Model / Desc.

ZF 13T Disc Brake

Type – Front

Two spring electronically controlled air suspension

STORAGE:

Type – Rear

Four spring electronically controlled air suspension

N/A

SUSPENSION: Type – Front Type – Rear

Two spring electronically controlled air suspension Four spring electronically controlled air suspension

BRAKES:

STORAGE: Side Bins

SUSPENSION:

No

Thru Bins

Yes

Internal Luggage Bins No

BRAKES:

Side Bins

No

Thru Bins

Yes

Internal Luggage Bins No

Service Brakes

Front Disc / Rear Disc

AIR-CONDITIONING:

Service Brakes

Front Disc / Rear Disc

AIR-CONDITIONING:

Retarding Brake System

Yes

Air-Cond Std

Heat/Cool

Retarding Brake System

Yes

Standard

Cling

Air-Conditioning Standard

Heat/Cool

Air-Cond Make

EBS

Standard

SDDR-06

BODY DIMENSIONS:

Air-Conditioning Make

Spheros

Air-Cond Model

Air-Conditioning Model

Not Available

EBS

BODY DIMENSIONS: Body Length (mm)

12445

Body Length (mm)

12245

Body Width (mm)

2500

Body Width (mm)

2500

Body Height (mm)

3480

Body Height (mm)

3820

Body Floor Height (mm) 900

Body Floor Height (mm) 1500

Body Weight (kg)

Body Weight (kg)

98

N/A

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N/A

busnews.com.au

11/10/21 8:37 pm

ADDRESS:

WEB:

Yutong Bus Head Office: 34 Mount Erin Road, Campbelltown, NSW, Australia, 2560

www.yutong.com.au Sales Enquires: Warren Young Phone: (02) 8007 6310 Mobile: 0407 993 972 Email: warren.young@yutong.com.au

One & Two Door City Bus (TfNSW Approved)

MAKE: YUTONG

MODEL: D12 ULF

MAKE: YUTONG

APPLICATION: ULF – CITY BUS

MODEL: E12 FULL ELECTRIC

APPLICATION: ULF – CITY BUS

CHASSIS DIMENSIONS:

BODY OPTIONS:

CHASSIS DIMENSIONS:

BODY OPTIONS:

Chassis Length (metres)

12490

Wheelchair Lift Access

Yes

Chassis Length (mm)

12470

Chassis Wheelbase (mm)

6490

CD/PA/Radio

Standard

6300

Wheelchair Lift Access

Standard

Chassis Wheelbase (mm)

CD/PA/Radio

Standard

Chassis Front Overhang (mm)

2700

DVD/TV

Optional

Chassis Front Overhang (mm)

2740

DVD/TV

Standard

Toilet

No

Chassis Rear Overhang 3430 (mm)

Toilet

N/A

Individual Reading Lights

No

Chassis Turning Circle Diameter (metres)

Individual Reading Lights

N/A

Individual AC Vents

No

Individual AC Vents

N/A

Reverse Camera

Standard

Standard

Chassis Rear Overhang 3300 (mm) Chassis Turning Circle Diameter (metres)

NS

ENGINE: Make / Model

Cummins/ISL8.9E5320B

Configuration

Turbocharged

Power (HP / kW)

315/235

Torque (Nm)

1350 @ 1000-1600

Bore and Stroke

NS

Compression Ratio

NS

Fuel Capacity (litres)

300

Oil Capacity (litres) Emissions

NS Euro 5

Automatic Trans Make/ ZF/6AP1400B/6 speed Model/ Description Manual Trans Make/ Model/ Description

N/A

ENGINE: Make / Model

Yutong - YTM280-CV9-H

Reverse Camera

Other (please specify) NS

Configuration

Full Electric

Other (please specify) Standard

SEATING:

Power (HP / kW)

350 / 469

SEATING:

Torque (Nm)

3200

Seating Capacity

45 / 45

Passenger Capacity

60 / 65

Fixed Coach

Metro

Seating Capacity

44+1

Passenger Capacity

65

Fixed Coach

Metro

SEATING OPTIONS: Seating Make

Yutong

Bore and Stroke

Nil

Compression Ratio

Nil

Fuel Capacity (litres)

422kwh / 350kwh

Seating Make

Yutong

Nil

Seating Model

8ma / Protean

ZERO

Seatbelts

Non-Seat Belted

Seating Model

NS

Oil Capacity (litres)

Seatbelts

No

Emissions

AXLES:

TRANSMISSION:

Front Make / Model / Desc.

ZF/NS/Disc brake

Rear Make / Model / Desc.

ZF/NS/Disc brake, differential rate 5.13

Type – Front

Air bag with kneeling function

Side Bins

No

Type – Rear

Air bag with kneeling function

Thru Bins

No

BRAKES:

Internal Luggage Bins No

Automatic Trans

N/A

Manual Trans

N/A

SUSPENSION:

Four spring electronically controlled air suspension

Side Bins

No

Thru Bins

No

Internal Luggage Bins No

BRAKES: Service Brakes

Front Disc / Rear Disc

Retarding Brake System

Yes

EBS

Standard

AIR-CONDITIONING: Yes

EBS

NS

Air-Conditioning Standard Air-Conditioning Make

CAN system controlled Kelin cool&hot roof mounted

BODY DIMENSIONS:

Air-Conditioning Model

NS

2500

Body Height (metres)

3150

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

busnews.com.au

Yutong C&B 2021.indd 99

11400

ZF/ZFAV132T/NS Disc Brake

Type – Rear

WABCO ABS

Body Width (metres)

Rear Make / Model / Desc.

STORAGE:

Retarding Brake System

12490

ZF/ZFRL85A/NS Disc Brake

Two spring electronically controlled air suspension

Disc

Body Length (metres)

Front Make / Model / Desc.

Type – Front

Service Brakes

BODY DIMENSIONS:

SEATING OPTIONS:

AXLES:

TRANSMISSION:

STORAGE:

SUSPENSION:

≤ 23

Body Length (mm)

12470

Body Width (mm)

2500

Body Height (mm)

3445

AIR-CONDITIONING: Air-Conditioning Standard

Heat/Cool

Air-Conditioning Make

Cling

Air-Conditioning Model Not Available

Body Floor Height (mm) 310 Body Weight (kg)

N/A

ABC 2021 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

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11/10/21 8:37 pm

DELIVERIES

2020-21

Volgren led the way with body building deliveries, hitting 310 in the last financial year.

Bus and coach market pushes on in pandemic Some brands saw solid gains in otherwise tough times, exclusive ABC data reveals.

W

hile the impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic were felt across the industry, bus and coach sales reached four figures for the 2020–21 financial year.

The final number of 1,041 is well down on 1,520, though, and more comparable to the 1,064 recorded in the 2016–17 financial year. It equates to about 87 new deliveries each month.

There were, however, some individual wins in the chassis sector. While perennial leaders Volvo (324) and Scania (269) eased off last year’s heights, the chasing pack saw decent gains. Mercedes-Benz rose year-on-year from 125 to 133, Yutong from 104 to 111, and MAN from 22 to 48. The market also saw BYD make its mark with four units.

The body-building sector’s leaderboard also resembled that of recent years, but at a reduced scale. Volgren led the way, reported in 310 deliveries along with subsidiary Supportrans’ 20 units. Bustech Group reported 147 deliveries with Precision Buses contributing 46 of those and Elphinstone 25. Yutong’s numbers aligned with its chassis 100

ABC 2021 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

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deliveries (111), the only increase of note in this sector. BCI also reached triple figures (114) for bodies built.

Thermo King’s grip on the air-conditioning sector remains as tight as ever, recording nearly half of all deliveries (479).

Hispacold (108) and Cling-Yutong 100 hit triple figures, while Spheros followed on 93. It should be noted this sector had 48 deliveries unaccounted for by our sources.

“Victoria, despite its prolonged lockdowns, remained the busiest state in the market.”

Victoria, despite its prolonged lockdowns, remained the busiest state in the market, with 30 per cent of deliveries recorded there. New South Wales followed on 24 per cent.

Western Australia pipped Queensland by two per cent, with the rest of Australia involving smaller numbers.

Please note all data is as supplied from manufacturers, with their involvement at their discretion. busnews.com.au

11/10/21 4:19 pm

Volgren 310 Bustech Group 147 BCI 114 Yutong 111 Irizar 66 Custom Bus 48 Gemilang 38 Scania Higer 35 Express Coaches 34 Coach Design 29 Coach Concepts 24 Volgren/Supportrans 20 BLK 17

SALES BY BODY

P&D Coachworks 14 Marcopolo 11

The body-building sector’s leaderboard also resembled that of recent years, but at a reduced scale. Volgren led the way, reporting 310 deliveries along with subsidiary Supportrans’ 20 units. Bustech Group reported 147 deliveries with Precision Buses contributing 46 of those and Elphinstone 25. Yutong’s numbers aligned with its chassis deliveries (111), the only increase of note in this sector. BCI also reached triple figures (114) for bodies built.

N/A 6 Challenger 4 Omnibus 4 TOST 4 JBUS 3 Coachworks 1 Mercedes-Benz 1

6% SA

3% 1% TAS ACT

30% VIC

17% QLD

Percentage by

REGION

19% WA

24%

%

SALES BY AIR-CONDITIONER

Thermo King’s grip on the air-conditioning sector remains as tight as ever, recording nearly half of all deliveries (479). Hispacold (108) and Cling-Yutong 100 hit triple figures, while Spheros followed on 93. It should be noted this sector had 48 deliveries unaccounted for by our sources.

Thermo King Hispacold Cling-Yutong Spheros Coachair MCC N/A

479 108 100 93 67 67 48

Denso Konvekta Air Intl. XT Kingtec Evocool KRS KT

37 35 2 2 1 1 1

NSW

VOLVO 324 SCANIA 269 MERCEDES-BENZ 133 YUTONG 111 BCI 87 MAN 48 BUSTECH 26 HINO 20

Sales by Chassis

BLK AUTO 14

There were, however, some individual wins in the chassis sector. While perennial leaders Volvo (324) and Scania (269) eased off last year’s heights, the chasing pack saw decent gains. Mercedes-Benz rose year-on-year from 125 to 133, Yutong from 104 to 111, and MAN from 22 to 48. The market also saw BYD make its mark with four units. busnews.com.au

BusSearch_2021_100-101_DEL FC.indd 101

BYD 4 CHALLENGER 4

ABC 2021 BUS SEARCH BUYERS’ GUIDE

IVECO 1

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TRANSMISSION & CHASSIS

ZF

ZF INNOVATES BUSES & COACHES With innovative chassis, driveline and steering technology, ZF supports manufacturers and fleet operators by increasing efficiency and reducing costs.

Z

F in Oceania offers the very latest advancements in technology, original equipment and aftermarket parts, and comprehensive aftersales service to the local bus and coach industry.

ECOLIFE 2 New to the market is EcoLife 2, the next generation of ZF’s market-leading EcoLife transmission.

Since its introduction in 2007, the first generation ZF EcoLife six-speed automatic transmission has found acclaim the world over for efficiency, performance, noise characteristics and retarder braking, with the ZF EcoLife 2 delivering further refinements to the package.

With a focus on lowering operating costs and emissions, EcoLife 2 features an increased torque allowance of up to 2,000Nm for city bus use, whilst still providing further weight and fuel savings, all in an even more highly developed platform.

AXTRAX AVE ZF’s AxTrax AVE electric portal axle has already been installed in over 4,000 electric buses globally, which have subsequently travelled around 150 million kilometres with zero emissions.

The system can be utilised in numerous

Top: ZF innovations increase efficiency and reduce costs.

Above: The ZF range includes parts for drivelines, steering, brakes, chassis and electronic components, including CeTrax - a central electric drive.

Right: ZF’s AxTrax AVE electric portal axle.

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configurations, with energy provided by battery, fuel cell, supercapacitor or mains supply.

Instead of a traditional driveline, the AxTrax AVE features a compact electric motor installed within what would typically be the hub of the wheel.

Providing high-torque output, the system keeps weight low, while also saving space, which in turn allows for innovative interior designs.

The system utilises regenerative braking, which tops up battery stores while saving on service brakes, with the overall system containing fewer moving parts that in turn simplifies the maintenance task.

THE WHOLE PACKAGE ZF’s OE range for buses and coaches features a vast catalogue of parts, from driveline to steering, brakes, chassis and electronic components. In addition to EcoLife 2 and EcoLife, ZF also manufactures several other bus and coach transmissions including TraXon and CeTrax – a central electric drive – while the AxTrax AVE rear

axle is joined by the A132 and A133 Portal Axle units.

There are also the RL75A, RL75E and RL82A front-axle systems.

Aftermarket components from ZF and its LEMFÖRDER, SACHS, TRW and WABCO brands include the CDC electronic damping system, individual dampers, ActivMode and EV Series power steering pumps, clutch and dual mass flywheel systems, and electronic control units.

There is also a myriad of parts including steering systems and chassis, axles, clutches, brake components, and even transmission lubricants.

ZF in Oceania also makes available comprehensive exchange stock in addition to a thorough service and overhaul offering for EcoLife transmissions from its fully equipped workshop in NSW or alternatively through its service network.

Furnished with all of the latest diagnostic tools and factory-trained technicians, the technical team can assist with the servicing needs of bus and coach fleets big and small.

For more information on ZF in Oceania, visit www.zf.com/au or call 1800 ZF SALES (1800 93 72537). busnews.com.au

12/10/21 2:00 pm

Systematic Perfection!

The electric driveline is here to stay. ZF therefore provides two solutions for city buses up to 29t. From these two solutions bus manufacturers and end customers choose the system that suits their requirements best: the AxTrax AVE electric portal axle or the CeTrax electric central drive. Both products feature high peak and constant power with liquid cooling and a low dead weight. The AxTrax AVE with two integrated wheel motors and a maximum power of N: FDQ EH LQVWDOOHG ZLWK FRQYHQWLRQDO =) ORZ ÁRRU D[OHV DQG DOORZV IRU LQQRYDWLYH EXV FRQFHSWV :LWK WKH integrated planetary stage of ZF EcoLife, CeTrax transfers 300 kW to the road and can be installed in all types of buses with standard axles. The ZF experts provide the same long-term support and service from a single source as for conventional systems. zf.com/buses

For more information, contact ZF Services Australia 02 9679 5555

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8/10/21 2:56 pm

NEW! NEXT GENERATION DESTINATION DISPLAYS NEW! NEXT GENERATION FROMDISPLAYS HANOVER DESTINATION FROM HANOVER Slimmer and lighter than our previous range of LED

signs. Hanover’s G4 destination displays again set the global standard by offering an efficient, reliable and signs. Hanover’s G4 destination displays again set the cost effective solution. global standard by offering an efficient, reliable and Slimmer and lighter than our previous range of LED

cost effective solution.

POWER SUPPLY Hanover G4 LED displays use our most efficient and lowest profile power supplies to date.

POWER SUPPLY Hanover G4 LED displays use our most efficient and lowest profile power supplies to date.

SURFACE MOUNT LEDs G4 displays use the very latest generation of Surface Mount LEDs, providing the best

SURFACE MOUNT LEDs efficiency available and allowing for a slimmer case design.

G4

displays use the very latest generation of Surface Mount LEDs, providing the best efficiency available and allowing for a slimmer case design.

PROCESSOR Our G4 display processor supports all previous generation display features and now includes IP connectivity as an standard option.

HANOVERDISPLAYS.COM +613 9872 6673 parts@partssupply.com.au

HANOVERDISPLAYS.COM +613 9872 6673 parts@partssupply.com.au

Untitled-10 104

ULTRA THIN DESIGN Our new ultra thin, lightweight design enables easier installation and supports savings on fuel consumption.

PROCESSOR Our G4 display processor supports all previous generation display features and now includes IP connectivity as an standard option.

ULTRA THIN DESIGN Our new ultra thin, lightweight design enables easier installation and supports savings on fuel consumption.

8/10/21 2:56 pm

THE CCTV & SPARE PART SPECIALISTS ARE YOUR BIGGEST ASSETS PROTECTED? DIRECTION (AUS)

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CCTV footage doesn’t lie.

Talk to us about making your biggest assets secure

FEATURES

 Flexible options for every bus  Drivers panic buttons  Full installation  Remote live view & hosting  Real time & historical playback  Mobile app  Driver Fatigue Monitoring

03 9872 6673

parts@partssupply.com.au www.partssupply.com.au PARTS SUPPLY SOLUTIONS IS A FULLY LICENSED SECURITY COMPANY

Untitled-10 105

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SUPPLIERS

SEATING, AIRCON + PARTS & ACCESSORIES

ISRINGHAUSEN - INNOVATIVE SEATING SYSTEMS

F

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

ISRI seats are also available as an aftermarket option for various trucks, buses and coaches and earthmoving equipment.

Isringhausen Pty Ltd provides sales, service and spare parts for ISRI seats to its Sydney customers, as well as providing these services to the Australian and New Zealand dealer network from its facility in Wetherill Park, Sydney.

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

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

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

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

RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT ISRI seats are designed to meet or exceed internationally recognised ergonomic and safety standards, says the company, which is certified to the IATF 16949 Quality Management System Standard.

At the Isringhausen head office and factory in Lemgo, Germany, approximately 140 persons are actively engaged in product research, design, testing and development.

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

ĞƐŝŐŶ͗ • /ŶŚŽƵƐĞ ĚĞƐŝŐŶ ĐĂƉĂďŝůŝƟĞƐ • ŵŽĚĞůůŝŶŐ ƚŽ ŽƉƟŵŝnjĞ ǁĞŝŐŚƚ ƐĂǀŝŶŐ͕ ƐƚƌĞŶŐƚŚ ĂŶĚ ĚƵƌĂďŝůŝƚLJ

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DĞƚĞ WƌĞŵŝĞƌ WƌŽƚĞĂŶ

• >ŝŐŚƚǁĞŝŐŚƚ

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• sĂŶĚĂů ƌĞƐŝƐƚĂŶƚ • ĂƐĞ ŽĨ ŵĂŝŶƚĞŶĂŶĐĞ • /ŶŶŽǀĂƟǀĞ ƐĞĂƚ ĚĞƐŝŐŶƐ WƌŽƚĞĂŶ ŇŝƉ ƵƉ

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Creating Australia’s best seats.

Executive (full leather)

Explorer (verve range)

Educator 2 / 3

Designing and Manufacturing seats in Australia for over 60 years McConnell is the largest designer and manufacturer of transport seating in Australia.

Achieving this level of success while remaining a locally operated company is a testament to the quality of our product and the integrity and service of our dedicated team.

5 across School Safe

E: info@mcconnellseats.com.au 130 Northcorp Blvd Broadmeadows VIC 3047 T: + 61 3 9350 7277 and

mcconnellseats.com.au

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McConnell is a wholly owned subsidiary of APM Group of Companies

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SEATING, AIRCON + PARTS & ACCESSORIES

SUPPLIERS

LASTING PASSENGER COMFORT Muirhead, with its 180 years of sustainable innovation, helps operators keep pace with ever-changing challenges.

T

Top: Muirhead leather is available in a huge range of colours, finishes and textures.

Above: This lightweight leather is easy to clean and has flame resistance.

he bus and coach sector faces rapidly increasing demands for comfort, hygiene and sustainability. Muirhead’s lowcarbon natural leather enjoys repeat specification from operators and designers across all passenger transport modes. Muirhead’s huge range of colours, finishes, textures and specifications are provided from stock with no minimum order requirements and has a full certification to R118.03 annexe 6, 7 and 8.

Muirhead says that its leather delivers durability and exceptional performance – with flame resistance, light weight, easy cleaning and even anti-viral properties. These high-performance attributes combine to make Muirhead’s luxurious, soft and comfortable leather

a durable, hard-wearing and longlasting material - dramatically reducing the total cost of ownership, it says. In addition, Muirhead provides a marketleading warranty.

Muirhead Active Hygiene Leather helps operators to safeguard passengers. This self-disinfecting leather works continually to reduce viruses – including SARS-Cov-2, H3N2 and H1N1. No specialist cleaning is required.

Muirhead says that it makes the lowest carbon leather in the world at only 1.1kg CO2e per hide. Muirhead is also committed to the Science-Based Targets initiative (SBTi), ensuring that all sustainability data is clearly explained and independently verified as part of its rigorous life-cycle analysis.

Performance.

Performance.

Naturally.

Naturally. muirhead.co.uk

muirhead.co.uk busnews.com.au

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PARTS & ACCESSORIES

COACHAIR EXPANDS PARTS TEAM

Australian bus and coach air-conditioning expert Coachair has further expanded its commitment to customer support in appointing a new national parts manager, it’s announced.

WORDS FABIAN COTTER IMAGES COURTESY COACHAIR

B

ringing a wealth of experience to the role, Coachair – established in 1978 as the first Australian designer and manufacturer of bus air conditioning systems to the market – has appointed Peter Soleski to the above-mentioned role, expanding the organisation’s 110

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commitment to customer support and service, it states.

Mechanically minded and with a strong background in parts, Soleski is described as an asset to the company.

“One of Peter’s great strengths is his ability to understand the mechanical reasons behind a breakdown and

use that expertise to interpret the parts requirements to find a solution,” said Garry Webb, Coachair general manager, sales and marketing.

“He is experienced in delivering high-quality customer service to trade and business customers, which will be an asset for our clients.” busnews.com.au

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“One of Peter’s great strengths is his ability to understand the mechanical reasons behind a breakdown.”

AUTOMOTIVE BACKGROUND Coachair provides its customers with a comprehensive platform of aftermarket support, spare parts, technical support and ongoing maintenance.Soleski is looking forward to applying his extensive automotive background to the transit industry and taking a lead role in delivering a total parts solution, he says.

“I get a great deal of satisfaction in problem-solving to find the best outcome,” Soleski stated.

“Getting the right part the first time gets customers back on the road quickly, helping to keep their business running,” he explained.

IT’S JUST NOT CRICKET A keen cricketer, and previous president of his local cricket club, Soleski understands the dedication behind ongoing commitment, he says.

“I really believe in the ‘Through Life Support’ approach that is fundamental to busnews.com.au

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Coachair’s customer service,” he confirmed.

“I’m excited to support our parts and service technicians to deliver that.”

ABOUT COACHAIR Established more than 40 years ago, Coachair is a market leader in providing engineered Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) solutions for the bus and rail industry, it explains.

It provides Through Life Support for all HVAC solutions and has diversified into sacrificial anti-graffiti window film and interior lighting and panel solutions in both the rail and bus segments, it confirms.

It remains the only company to design, build and manufacture air conditioning systems for the Australian bus and coach industry, it says. Coachair provides its customers with a superior, reliable product backed by a comprehensive platform of aftermarket support, spare parts, technical support, and ongoing maintenance.

Opposite: Coachair provides its customers with a comprehensive platform of aftermarket support, spare parts, technical support and ongoing maintenance.

Top: Coachair is a market leader in providing engineered Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) solutions.

Above: Peter Soleski, Coachair national parts manager.

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BUS AND COACH WINDSCREEN WIPER SYSTEMS Specialize in the expert advice/ supply and Design of Bus and Coach Windscreen Wiper Systems  Gear/Seat Cables  Boost Pumps  Mirrors & Accessories

PARTS INCLUDE

Wiper Motors, Wiper Arms, Wiper Blades, Linkages, Cranks, Pivots and Washer Accessories, Supply Gear Shift Cables, Seat Recliner Cables, Throttle Cables, Cable Lanyards, Cable Ball Joints and Rod Ends, Supply Boost Pumps and Connector Kits, Supply various Mirrors, Sunblind Motors, Gas Struts, Gauges and Senders

OVER 25 YEARS EXPERIENCE SUPPLIERS OF LEADING BRANDS Trico, Tru Vison (Mayoi), Clark Brothers Instruments, Versus Mirrors, Commercial Vehicle Group (Sprague Devices)

Motion Parts Solutions Ph 0490 661 581 | greg@motionpartssolutions.com.au

www.motionpartssolutions.com.au

IS NOW ON FACEBOOK Like ABC on Facebook for a unique mix of bus news, reviews, events & entertainment visit facebook.com/ABCBusnews

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* Mobileye Connect Platform optional

Mobileye® 8 Connect™ Official Distributor

AI-powered Fleet Safety Solution

Act to Prevent Collisions

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Real-time audio & visual alerts give drivers more time to react and prevent or mitigate collisions.

Instill safer driving habits and track your fleet’s improvements with the Mobileye Connect Platform*

Mobileye 8 Includes over-the-air updates, ensuring your bus always has the latest safety features

Forward Collision Warning Pedestrian Collision Warning Lane Departure Warning Tailgating Reminder Speed Sign Recognition

1 . 800 . 227 548 fleetsafe.com.au

FleetSafe technology driven

Official Distributor

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P: (03) 9465 6955 sales@kirg.com.au www.kirg.com.au

QUALITY BUS COMPONENTS    

Windsceen Wiper & Washer Systems  Mirrors Interior Lighting  Rocker Switches  Column Stalks Relays  Hardware  Ventilation  Grab Handles Toilets and Components  Pumps

KIRG Importers has been supplying quality components to the bus and coach industry in Australasia for over 25 years. Our experienced staff will provide the best solution for your parts requirements!

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25

YEAR S E XPER IEN

CE

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SEATING, AIRCON + PARTS & ACCESSORIES

SUPPLIERS

HIGH-QUALITY BUS & COACH AIR BAG SUSPENSION

A

irbags Australia Pty Ltd is an Australian manufacturer and distributor of quality, internationally recognised air bags used in the suspension of buses, trucks and other applications.

Located in Adelaide, Airbags Australia’s products are well recognised in the aftermarket air bags/suspension parts industry, it states. The company says it is committed to its products, competitive prices and reliable and responsive client service, and as a result it is the preferred supplier of air bags to the majority of the public transport authorities in Australia.

Airbags Australia’s wide range of clients extends from large transport authorities to smaller fleet operators, it confirms.

A System ISO 9001 endorsed company, it says that its air bags can reduce maintenance costs and come with a two-year warranty.

The company was established in Adelaide in 1994 when its owners relocated to South Australia after operating a successful business of designing, producing and distributing air suspension products in Europe for more than 11 years.

Airbags Australia now plays an importing role in the Australian aftermarket industry, designing and manufacturing automotive air bags, bellows and rubber components that are sold both directly and through dealers, it states.

Also, the company is a proud member of the Australian Made Campaign.

FOR BUSES Airbags Australia produces a range of BUSCAT air bags to be used as replacement parts in buses and trucks.

BUSCAT air bags are produced to the highest standards and are made of the best quality rubber and rubber substitutes to ensure long life under arduous bus and coach travel conditions. BUSCAT air bags significantly reduce ongoing maintenance costs of bus fleets, says Airbags Australia.

The BUSCAT range of air bags is suitable for many bus models such as MercedesBenz, Volvo, Renault, MAN and Scania, to name but a few.

SINCE 1994

ABC-QV-5164982-TS-20

PROUDLY AUSTRALIAN

OUR PERFORMANCE IS YOUR CONFIDENCE Proven reduced maintenance costs, competitive prices, reliable and responsive client service.

P: +61 8 8384 6433 F: +61 8 8326 6433 E: info@airbagsaustralia.com.au

www.airbagsaustralia.com.au

busnews.com.au

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