BUS&COACHSALES
Tech driven
The opportunity to recently witness leading global bus and coach technology in the flesh is proof Australia is preparing for another influx of exciting models
Sometimes, there’s no appropriate way of truly understanding the depth and scale of technological advancements without seeing them in person. There’s just something about being able to smell it, touch it and take it all in with multiple senses. In a world that has gone more and more online, behind screens, emails and text messages, it’s easy to forget the importance of seeing something with your very own eyes.
This was a key fact I learnt in the past month as I was lucky enough to head to Zhengzhou on the Chinese Mainland to visit the home of Yutong. For years, the Yutong name has become more and more popular in Australia as the brand continues to build its sales momentum in the local market. After plenty of editions spent writing about its latest models being brought to Australia and the various customers who have adopted its technology, a couple of days spent at Yutong’s Zhengzhou factory was enough to surpass years of interviews, images and information.
It’s easy to forget the importance of seeing something with your very own eyes
From the Yutong test track, featuring its high-speed loop, to the sheer size of the factory blocks that combine to create the Chinese brand’s headquarters, I left Zhengzhou with a much deeper understanding of the size of the company, as well as the depth of its technological prowess.
Whether it was the numerous trips taken in its latest autonomous buses or the demonstration of how it is continuing to innovate in electric battery safety, Yutong proved it is no one-trick pony. And, most importantly, Australia is a key market it is focusing on amid all of its global success.
This edition reflects the recent abundance of technological developments arising in Australia’s bus industry, both with Yutong and other brands. To learn more about the trip to Yutong and the capabilities it is harnessing, head to page 31, while local distributor VDI Australia takes our cover story from page 24 with an in-depth description of the exciting models that are coming to local shores in the near future.
Sticking to strong collaborations between Chinese manufacturers and local distributors,
Sean Mortell EDITOR, ABC
in the know
04. editorial | ignition TECHDRIVEN
The opportunity to recently witness leading global bus and coach technology in the flesh is proof that Australia is preparing for another influx of exciting models
08. news | all aboard
Check out the latest news from around Australia and the world
features
23. column | bic MEETINGINTHEMIDDLE
While there’s still a long way to go in the zeroemission transition, BIC highlights the positive trend fuelling the national bus and coach industry
24. cover story | vdi BUILDINGMOMENTUM
An array of developments and potential releases is underpinning the leading role that VDI and Yutong are taking when it comes to Australia’s technology shift
26. feature | bus stop REDEFININGSUPPORT
The legacy of Bus Stop Sales and King Long continues to grow in Australia, as the partnership forges a new benchmark for customer support and service in the local bus industry
31. feature | yutong GLOBALGLORY
Sean Mortell headed to Yutong’s Zhengzhou home base to discover the total dedication that is driving the brand to new heights in the local market
34. feature | bci EUROPEANEDGE
Over the past 18 months, BCI has found rich success in offering a leading body model on top of two European chassis products
36. feature | happiest bus driver WONDERFULROLAND
Meet Roland Tornyai, the energetic and beloved tour-de-force that is the inaugural winner of ABC’s Happiest Bus Driver competition
38. hvac feature | spheros ONTHERISE
A suite of new electric HVAC models featuring the latest air-conditioning technology is spurring Spheros onto greater heights in the local market
40. hvac feature | trs CONSTANTPRESENCE
For decades TRS has been a popular part of Australia’s bus and coach air-conditioning market. At the centre of its ongoing rise is its St Peters branch
42. hvac feature | qtk group SIMPLESOLUTION
While it was officially launched at last year’s National Bus and Coach Show, Queensland Thermo King’s CF-1100A offers a welcome new unit for regional diesel buses and coaches
44. feature | flixbus GIANTSTEPS
This summer, a new tinge of green will grace Australia’s long-distance bus network as global powerhouse FlixBus expands into the local market with its unique model
46. feature | e-t-a POWERINSAFEHANDS
The push to electrify buses and coaches leads to a range of safety questions, and technology is stepping in with robust answers
48. column | qbic UNITEDFORSAFETY
QBIC’s Jason O’Dwyer details the new path forward agreed upon by the association and Queensland ministers, unions and police to protect the state’s bus drivers
49. events BUSYYEAR
Check out these events for the industry in the run home for 2025
51. competition | best bus JAILBREAK
Daniel Anghiel’s submission on behalf of a Ventura driver at a popular old Melbourne prison is a clear winner for September departments
54. factory facts | bus deliveries AUGUSTDELIVERIES
Check out the latest bus and coach supplier sales data collected and recorded for you to review and see how the market fared in August
58. back seat | sensory bus ALLABOUTACCESSIBILITY
In late July, South Australia announced its very first Sensory Bus, with the specially designed old Adelaide Metro bus to re-think accessible transport
Managing Editor: Geoff Crockett
e-mail: geoff.crockett@primecreative.com.au
Editor: Sean Mortell
e-mail: sean.mortell@primecreative.com.au ph: 0468 577 166
Assistant Editor: Chris Edwards e-mail: chris.edwards@primecreative.com.au
Art Director: Daz Woolley Designer: Apostolos Topatsis
PRINTING Brougham Press
ADVERTISING
Sales Manager – South: Courtney Burton ph: 0481 736 890 e -mail: courtney.walker@primecreative.com.au
Business Development Manager – Bus: Sylvie Hanlon ph: 0466 545 664
e-mail: sylvie.hanlon@primecreative.com.au
SUBSCRIPTIONS
www.busnews.com.au/subscribe ph: +61 (0)3 9690 8766
Mon-Fri 8am-4.30pm (EST) e -mail: subscriptions@primecreative.com.au mail: 379 Docklands Drive, Docklands VIC 3008 Australia
Annual subscription rates (12 issues): Australia: $99* Overseas: $A170 (Australian air-mail only) *price includes GST
Cover image: Yutong
Image: Prime Creative Media
SkyBus expands in Melbourne
SkyBus has made big moves in Melbourne, committing to electric buses while announcing two new express services for this year
It’s big news for SkyBus, with the airport service operator announcing two new express services and a commitment to go electric in Melbourne by 2031.
The Eastern Express and Sunshine Express services will be launched before the end of this year, offering greater airport accessibility to Melburnians in the eastern and western suburbs.
From August 31, the Eastern Express started travelling to and from Box Hill Central and Melbourne Airport seven days a week, stopping at Watsonia and Doncaster.
Customers are able to buy one-way tickets for the service at a special introductory price of $9.99 for the first three months.
The Sunshine Express is expected to begin on November 9 and travel directly between Sunshine Station and Melbourne Airport.
Both new services are part of SkyBus’ continued operations at Melbourne Airport under a new contract with the Victorian government through to the end of 2034.
SkyBus will also lead the way in sustainable airport public transport, committing to a fully electric fleet across its Melbourne services by 2031.
The ambitious electrification rollout
Below:
SkyBus has added extra services in Melbourne and committed to zero-
will include Australia’s first electric double decker buses,with estimated arrival by mid-2027.
The Sunshine Express will begin this zero-emissions transformation, with its service commencing with an all-electric fleet, while the Eastern Express will transition to electric in 2026.
This electrification program positions SkyBus at the forefront of clean transport innovation, delivering quieter, greener journeys and a world-class welcome for visitors to Melbourne.
CEO of SkyBus’ parent company Kinetic, Michael Sewards, says it’s a great privilege to maintain SkyBus’ strong partnership with the Victorian government and Melbourne Airport in launching these new services.
“These new Eastern Express and Sunshine Express services will connect more Melbourne communities directly to the airport, providing a convenient and affordable transport option,” he says.
“Since its humble beginnings as a single-bus airport shuttle service nearly 50 years ago, SkyBus has grown to carry almost three million people to and from the airport every year, and these new services will help us serve even more passengers.
“This expansion highlights the key role SkyBus has come to play
in Melbourne and celebrates the amazing SkyBus experience which has earned a reputation globally as world class.”
SkyBus general manager Audrey Speziale says she’s proud of the difference SkyBus is making to provide a cleaner and greener mode of transport for its customers and communities.
“Throughout SkyBus and the broader Kinetic business we’re growing our electric bus fleet and removing hundreds of thousands of kilograms of CO2 emissions from our atmosphere,” she says.
“We look forward to continuing this track record throughout the full electrification of the SkyBus fleet, which is yet another investment in improving the experience customers having aboard SkyBus.”
Melbourne Airport chief of property, retail and ground transport Jai McDermott has welcomed the SkyBus expansion.
“SkyBus is an essential part of our transport mix, and these new services will provide much needed improvements to connectivity for our staff and passengers. We thank the Victorian government for providing SkyBus with the certainty and SkyBus for committing to these services,” he says.
“The airport is growing, and with the recent approval of our third runway, we are on track to welcome more than 76 million passengers by 2042, so we need the right transport infrastructure in place to support that growth and SkyBus will play a pivotal role in this.”
SkyBus services currently run express to Melbourne CBD from Melbourne Airport, the Peninsula Express runs from Melbourne Airport to St Kilda, Frankston and other bayside suburbs and the Avalon Express services Melbourne’s Avalon Airport through Werribee. SkyBus also services Hobart International Airport.
Love the journey
Discover the ultimate in coach design with our BCI Cruiser bodies, built to fit a variety of European chassis platforms with cutting-edge safety technology, specifically engineered to meet the unique demands of Australian roads. Step into their refined interior designed for maximum comfort, with spacious seating and climate control tailored to enhance every ride. This new generation of BCI coaches sets a new standard of excellence in our industry.
Contact our team for further information on 1300 289 224 or visit bcibus.com.au
Head Office Perth: 08 9353 9000
Melbourne: 03 8787 2100
Brisbane: 07 3275 6900
Adelaide: 08 8182 3888
Transit, run by the famous Oliveri family, has announced the acquisition of a new school bus operation.
Southern Cross Transit has acquired Faith Lutheran College’s school bus operation in the Lockyer Valley, west of Brisbane.
Advised by McInnes Wilson, the acquisition allows SCT to continue growing as a passenger transport operator in the state.
The business was bought by the Oliveri family in August 2002 to run school and chartered bus services in the greater Brisbane region with a 52-bus fleet. Run by Frank and his wife Mel, the operation allowed the Oliveri family to celebrate its 70th year of transporting people late last year.
SCT is now one of the state’s largest passenger transport businesses, with a fleet of 65 buses and coaches servicing the school and charter sector in south east Queensland, while it’s also contracted by the Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads alongside multiple private schools to deliver school runs in Brisbane, Ipswich and the
On July 15, SCT took over service delivery of all school runs for Faith, including its fleet of 14 buses and dedicated transport staff.
Chris Davis, Nick Wilson and Oskar Waddington in McInnes Wilson’s corporate and commercial advisory team advised Southern Cross Transit on all aspects relating to the acquisition of Faith’s school bus operation.
“Providing modern, safe, affordable and cost-effective bus services is extremely challenging in today’s hyper-connected society. Since day one back in 1954, the Oliveri family has attributed its success and sustainability to partnering with professional advisers who understand the intricacies of public transport service delivery, and how we, as a delivery partner, meet and exceeded all compliance and expectations of our governments and local communities,” SCT managing director Frank Oliveri says.
“The team at McInnes Wilson has a sound knowledge of public transport, the law and importantly, the community and political nuances, and
ago they have provided us with a solid foundation to grow our business here in Queensland.
“Without question, partnering with McInnes Wilson is one of the best decisions we have made in our 70 years of moving people.”
Faith Lutheran College is a leading independent secondary school and one of the largest employers in the Lockyer Valley region from its base at Plainland.
Since its inception, Faith conducted its own dedicated school bus operation for students residing in Ipswich and throughout the Lockyer Valley region, until a decision was made to outsource service delivery.
“Since 2021, I have had the privilege of acting for the Oliveri family and Southern Cross Transit, who are one of Australia’s longest standing bus families,” senior associate Nick Wilson says.
“Well done to Frank, sister Carmel and the team at Southern Cross on this strategic acquisition and the expansion of their business into the Lockyer Valley.”
Above:
The Oliveri family has added a new school run to Southern Cross Transit’s operations. Image: McInnes Wilson
50 cent fares deliver Queensland savings
Bus patronage has seen a massive jump throughout the entire state in the six months since the measure was made permanent
The Queensland government has provided an update on its permanent 50 cent fare measure for public transport in the state.
With more than 96 million trips having been taken on public transport since the state government made 50 cent fares permanent, the cost of living measure has saved Queenslanders almost $200 million. Since the measure was made permanent in February, data to the end of July shows a 16 per cent increase in public transport trips across south east Queensland. Leading the way in this is the bus network, which has seen the biggest jump in patronage numbers.
Customers have taken 59.1 million
Above: Bus patronage has jumped in recent months in Queensland. Image: Doublelee/ stock.adobe.com
bus trips in this time, more than double the other public transport options in the area in trains (26.8 million trips), trams (6.6 million) and ferries (3.5 million).
Across regional Queensland, Translink’s buses have seen patronage
rise by 41 per cent in Cairns, 91 per cent in Townsville and 42 per cent in the Whitsundays to the end of June.
Queensland transport and main roads minister Brent Mickelberg says the six month data for 50 cent fares sees the results speak for themselves.
“Queenslanders are saving money and embracing public transport as the most affordable and accessible travel option, with support for 50 cent fares climbing to 92 per cent since we made them permanent,” he says.
“From work commutes to weekend outings, the LNP’s Permanent 50 Cent Fares are making staying connected cheap and easy – helping to relieve cost- of-living pressures for Queenslanders.”
Group calls for Melbourne route expansion
Melbourne community groups have called for another popular route to become a seven day service after data shows its high patronage numbers
Community groups have started calling for the addition of a Sunday service to a popular Melbourne bus route, launching a parliamentary petition.
Melbourne’s route 506 runs from Moonee Ponds to Westgarth via Brunswick, with analysis from the 7 Day 506 Bus Campaign finding that it was Melbourne’s busiest six day route that lacked a Sunday service.
On Saturdays, it records 36 boardings per bus operating hour, leading to the petition also requesting a Saturday evening service.
Dr Andrea Bunting, sustainable energy engineer and secretary of Climate Action Merri-bek, says Melbourne’s inner northern residents needed real alternatives to car driving to cut emissions. With buses being the only east-west public transport in the area, she says it’s vital that they run seven days to connect people and places.
Popular destinations served by the 506 bus include Moonee Ponds Junction, Brunswick Library, Sydney Rd shops, Lygon St shops, Puckle St shops, High St shops, Westgarth cinemas, FOMO cinemas, Penny Lane cinemas and the Brunswick Baths. The route also connects eight popular tram lines across Melbourne’s inner north, as well as four rail lines.
The 506 bus once operated on Sundays, but this service was removed in the 1970s or 1980s.
“With Sunday trading legalised in the 1990s, more homes being built and rising local traffic congestion, it is more important than ever that good public transport alternatives like more frequent seven day buses exist,” Dr Bunting says.
“Indeed, many apartment dwellers in the inner suburbs do not even own a motor vehicle, and planning policy encourages these residents to rely on public and active transport.
“Saturday service is also limited with the last bus leaving Moonee Ponds at 6pm. This should be extended to at least 9pm to match standards for buses in other parts of Melbourne.
“The government has recently funded new or upgraded Sunday bus service in other part of Melbourne on routes such as 733, 767 and 800. These have been well used by passengers. We are confident that an upgraded seven day 506 bus would be similarly successful.”
The Brunswick call is also consistent with Infrastructure Victoria’s ‘Fast Frequent Fair’ report. Released in 2023, this recommended buses across Melbourne operate over longer hours especially on weekends. The Legislative Council e-petition has attracted over 120 signatures in its first few days and closes on October 10. After then, it will be tabled in parliament, with the minister being required to respond.
Not all things are created equal.
Sometimes it’s obvious at first glance, sometimes not. When it comes to buying parts for your Volvo vehicle, don’t lose sight of the important qualities that count. Volvo Genuine Parts offer superior performance and strength, and that’s why the lion’s share of our customers keep their vehicles 100% Volvo. When performance matters, the choice is obvious.
Volvo Genuine Parts – no contest.
Volvo Buses
Regional NSW trial receives big tick
Electric bus trials in regional NSW are delivering standout results and offering valuable insights to support future rollouts
After spending more than a year in operation, an electric bus trial in Tweed Heads has delivered standout results with a remarkable 93 per cent passenger satisfaction rate.
The two electric buses trialled in Tweed Heads have completed 42,000 passenger journeys, travelled over 56,000 kilometres and accumulated more than 50,000 kilograms of potential tail pipe emissions reductions.
“These regional trials are helping us understand how electric buses can work across NSW – not just in cities, but in the regional communities that
The Tweed Heads trial is part of a broader 18-month program taking place across five regional centres; Tweed Heads, Armidale, Queanbeyan, Deniliquin and Narrabri. The initiative is delivering real-world performance data on how ZEBs operate over long distances, in varied terrain and under diverse weather conditions.
Regional transport minister Jenny Aitchison says the results so far confirm that regional NSW is not only ready for ZEBs, but leading the charge.
“Tweed Heads and other regional communities are helping to shape the
Deniliquin, we’re seeing electric buses perform reliably over long distances, tough terrain and in challenging weather. This is giving us valuable insights into how we can scale this technology across regional NSW.”
Local government spokesperson for Tweed Emily Suvaal says the trial proves the region is ready to lead on clean transport.
“It’s great to see the Tweed region playing such an important role in shaping the future of transport in NSW. These trial results show just how ready the region is to lead the charge on clean, quiet and reliable public
Volgren opens new site
Volgren’s new Pennington facility delivers faster repairs, local parts supply and skilled service for South Australian bus and coach operators
It’s official. The work is complete and the doors are now open on the new Adelaide home of Australian bus body manufacturer Volgren.
The new site will add to Volgren’s existing facilities and service centres in Victoria, Queensland, Western Australia and New South Wales. The new site will also add more talent to the company’s employee list, taking it above 500 staff.
In a statement announcing the operational opening of the site, Volgren says it “marks an important step in our national expansion and our commitment to building local capability, jobs and investment”.
It says its dedicated South Australian team will offer Volgren
and Marcopolo products and warranty support, full body repairs and parts and components for all Volgren and Marcopolo bus models.
The site also features more than 15 work bays, including a new 25-metre spray booth, which will help reduce downtime for fleets requiring bodywork, refinishing or accident repair.
Sydney expands EV fleet
NSW has announced a new order of 151 battery electric buses to bolster its Sydney fleet
The New South Wales government has announced the growth of its electric bus fleet in Sydney is set to accelerate with the addition of 151 new battery electric buses. The latest order brings the total number of new buses purchased since March 2023 to 921, firmly placing NSW on the path to a zero-emissions future.
The buses will be built locally, with manufacturers such as Custom Denning in St Marys part of some of the orders. Transport for NSW says each vehicle will contribute to the conversion of key depots at Leichhardt and Kingsgrove, ensuring they are ready to host a sustainable fleet for decades to come.
Over the long term, the Zero Emission Buses program is set to transform the state’s 8,000-plus diesel and gas buses into batterypowered vehicles. Eleven depots across Sydney are already being
adapted to support the electric bus fleet in Sydney, with a purpose-built electric depot under construction at Macquarie Park.
NSW transport minister John Graham says this staged investment is crucial for both sustainability and commuter experience.
“This latest investment in new buses has us on an express route to 1,000 new buses since Labor came to government,” Graham says.
official site visit to welcome customers and partners to the new facility.
The visit will provide operators with insight into the workflow, spray booth capabilities and the depth of local parts coverage.
The Pennington facility is located at 1/108 Glenroy Street, Pennington, SA 5013.
He adds that the transition is designed to benefit both passengers and the environment.
“The build-up of zero-emissions buses is happening in a staged and sustainable way, with the obvious benefits for the environment and air quality complemented by enhanced passenger comfort levels on these quieter, smoother buses,” he says.
More than 220 battery electric buses are already in operation across Greater Sydney, including three in Newcastle. By 2028, it is anticipated that around 1,700 vehicles will be serving commuters as part of the expanding electric bus fleet in Sydney.
Graham highlights that the government’s focus is on practical delivery.
“Getting more buses on the road in a timely manner is our approach,” Graham says.
Right: Volgren’s new SA facility is now open. Image: Volgren
Above: More electric buses are set to hit Sydney roads. Image: Liang/ stock.adobe.com
Ghost buses impact Melbourne commuters
A new survey highlights how unreliable bus scheduling in Melbourne’s west is frustrating commuters
A recent survey has revealed a troubling reality for passengers in Melbourne’s west: scheduled buses often fail to arrive, leaving commuters stranded and frustrated.
Western Metropolitan MP David Ettershank says he was surprised to learn about the widespread issue of so-called ghost buses.
“I was amazed to discover there is a fleet of ghost buses travelling Melbourne’s roads; these buses aren’t there in reality but appear on tracking apps,” Ettershank says. “It sounds like something from a Harry Potter film.”
For many passengers, the experience is more than an inconvenience. Survey respondents reported missing work, school and appointments because buses
simply failed to arrive. One wrote that despite tracking services via the PTV app or Google Maps, the bus “doesn’t actually exist”, a problem that occurs “almost weekly”.
Ettershank says it is remarkable that people can reliably track a pizza delivery in Melbourne but cannot count on the state’s bus tracking system.
“This is a bad joke on the people of Victoria,” Ettershank says. “Public Transport Victoria needs to take responsibility and invest in installing trackers on buses so the PTV app can accurately track their journey.”
Survey participants also identified long-standing issues in Melbourne’s west, including outdated routes, a lack of express services, limited bus-to-train connections and
WA bus numbers soar
Passenger numbers on WA buses have soared to historic highs, signalling a decisive shift back to public transport across the state
Western Australians are returning to public transport in record numbers, with buses leading the charge in the state’s biggest patronage increase in more than a decade.
Data from the Public Transport Authority show 85.9 million bus boardings in the 2024–25 financial year, the highest on record. The figures contribute to a total of 148.7 million public transport boardings across the network, representing a three per cent increase from the previous year and the strongest result in 11 years.
WA transport minister Rita Saffioti says the results highlight the value of a reliable and affordable public transport network.
“This is another fantastic outcome that shows just how important public transport is to the community,” Saffioti says.
“The bounce back we have seen since COVID-19 has been nationleading, and there are now more Western Australians jumping on public transport than at any other time in the past 11 years.”
Buses weren’t the only success story. Ferries set a new record with 935,000 boardings, while train patronage rose to 61.9 million, the highest in nearly a decade. The Airport Line alone saw a 15 per cent boost to 5.6 million boardings.
Survey results from Transperth’s annual Passenger Satisfaction Monitor show high public approval across all modes, with 97 per cent of CAT bus passengers satisfied with services.
Saffioti says the state government’s investment in affordability has been key to attracting more passengers.
infrequent timetables. Respondents said more frequent services, ideally every 15 minutes, would make a significant difference.
There were also strong calls for improvements in safety and sustainability, including the rollout of more electric buses and the implementation of safer infrastructure at bus stops.
Ettershank says more reliable buses would help connect people to jobs, education and community life.
“Many people in the west have been waiting for a bus for literally years,” Ettershank says. “Better buses are a win for everyone.”
The survey results underscore the pressing need for enhanced planning and investment in bus services across Melbourne’s west.
“Every time someone chooses to jump on a bus, train or ferry, it’s potentially another vehicle off the road and that’s really important for keeping our road networks flowing and reducing congestion,” she says.
The government’s next major initiative, the Suburban Flat Fare, will take effect from January 1. All fares will be capped at a single zone, meaning passengers can travel anywhere on the network for $2.80 with an autoload SmartRider.
“The introduction of the flat fare will put money back in the pockets of tens of thousands of commuters every single day,” Saffioti says.
“We want to see more people using public transport, and only our government will invest to make it easier and more affordable for every Western Australian to jump on a bus, train or ferry.”
BIC launches safety screen initiative
BIC has unveiled a new initiative to design and install safety screens on Queensland buses that is set to lower bus driver safety incidents
The Bus Industry Confederation (BIC) has launched a new initiative in Queensland to simplify the design and installation of safety screens on buses and coaches in a bid to improve bus driver safety.
The new initiative is designed to ultimately provide a safer workplace for bus drivers, following collaborative efforts between regulators and industry.
The move is timely, with several recent violent incidents directed at bus drivers in south-east Queensland including one on the Sunshine Coast where a bus driver sustained a knife injury and was hospitalised. The attack is indicative of an increase in passenger antisocial behaviour across major capital cities like Brisbane, Melbourne, Darwin and Hobart, with calls from industry for improved safety.
Fitment of driver safety screens follows a complex set of laws and regulations, with some cases requiring government-issued exemptions.
This latest initiative, comprising the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator Driver Safety Screen Exemption notice, will enable modifications by an approved vehicle examiner where exemptions are required, streamlining compliance and ensuring safety standards are maintained.
“This proactive measure ensures that bus manufacturers, modifiers, owners and operators can undertake essential vehicle modifications without compromising the stringent safety standards that govern heavy vehicles,” National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) director of policy implementation Peter Austin says.
“The driver safety screen collaboration, led by industry, demonstrates how industry and the regulator can work together to continuously improve driver and transport safety.”
Supporting technical guidance materials developed by BIC along
with testing and trials by Brisbane City Council’s Public Transport Services Group underpin this.
Current data across Australia shows a surge in verbal abuse, physical threats and violent assaults, with serious implications on driver wellbeing, passenger safety and the sustainability of public transport services. Physical attacks on bus drivers rose 80 per cent between 2017 and 2025, while verbal abuse rising 184 per cent in some states.
“These aren’t just statistics – these are real people being put at real risk while providing an essential service to our communities,” BIC executive director Varenya Mohan-Ram says.
“The bus and coach industry’s commitment to improving the workplace of our drivers has played a leading role in the development of this initiative.”
Inspired by positive results seen in London, this Queensland-led collaboration has looked at the issues wholistically, with considerations
including site lines, reflection, technology and other safety standards to ensure a world leading safety solution that significantly reduces risk to bus drivers. This innovative solution and exemption notice is the first step to ensure standards are set globally.
The development of driver safety screen guidance is a landmark achievement in the ongoing effort to protect bus drivers and improve safety across public transport.
“This is about keeping our bus drivers safe while they’re doing their job serving the community,” Brisbane Transport civic cabinet chair Councillor Wines says.
“It’s taken a huge team effort from council staff to industry and regulators to deliver a practical solution that will make a real difference. Every new bus we put on the road will now come fitted with a driver safety screen.
“Other states are already following our lead, and that shows just how important this initiative is.”
Above: The initiative has been released by BIC and the NHVR. Image: Monkey Business/ stock.adobe.com
Vic underspends on bus investment
Internal documents tabled in state parliament have Victoria at the bottom of bus investments when compared to other Australian states
Documents tabled in Victorian parliament on September 9 have revealed that the state government had been underinvesting on metropolitan bus services relative to other Australian cities.
During parliamentary proceedings, Victoria’s Bus Network Plan Review was tabled, featuring an internal Department of Transport and Planning National Bus Investment Benchmarking discussion paper from May 2022 that reported that Victoria spent $112 per year per capita on urban bus services.
This puts Victoria at the bottom of all Australian states, with South Australia investing $152 per capita each year, Western Australia $263, New South Wales $171 and Queensland $200.
The analysis that was part of documents requested on March 19
last year and tabled on September 9 reveals that Melbourne spent scarcely more on buses than Brisbane or Perth despite having more than double the population of both cities.
Community campaign
FixDandyBuses has called on the state government to boost investment in metropolitan bus services in the 2026 state budget to be nearer that of other states.
FixDandyBuses’ Peter Parker suggests this could start with more trips on routes with high patronage potential or which served areas with high social needs.
He says that Dandenong, being in the transport minister’s seat, qualified on numerous counts to receive more funding in the next budget to fund seven-day services on six Greater Dandenong bus routes.
Another internal paper included was the Bus Reform Movement and Place Classifications that saw transport consultant Stantec identify 28 rapid bus corridors across Melbourne, with three of these (including portions of bus routes 828, 901 and 902) being in Greater Dandenong.
Parker also called for the 2026 budget funding to upgrade weekend services on these routes from the current of every 30 to 60 minutes to every 15 to 20 minutes as precursors to a full-scale bus rapid transit service.
“Investment in better bus services changes lives and saves people money,” Parker says.
“It’s time the Victorian government comes on board by boosting investment in metropolitan bus services to per-capita levels seen in other Australian capitals.”
Bendy buses return after repair break
Seventeen Northern Beaches
bendy buses are back on the road after recent repairs, with 50 additional models being ordered
Passengers on Sydney’s Northern Beaches are starting to see relief at bus stops, with repaired articulated ‘bendy buses’ back in service after nearly a year off the road.
The fleet of long vehicles was withdrawn in October 2024 when cracking was discovered in their chassis, cutting capacity across some of the busiest routes.
NSW transport minister John Graham says their return is already easing congestion.
“Bendy buses are a signature part of public transport on the Northern Beaches, and we are pleased to see the repaired fleet starting to return to the busiest routes where they are needed most,” Graham says.
He adds that passengers’ feedback has been consistent.
“We have heard loud and clear from
bus passengers, especially peak time commuters, that queues at the bus stop have been too long, and these buses provide the extra capacity that will improve those wait times. Longer buses mean shorter queues, it’s that simple,” Graham says.
Seventeen bendy buses have now returned to Northern Beaches services, with more expected in the coming months. Three others are already boosting capacity on routes in the eastern suburbs, Lane Cove, Macquarie Park, Parramatta and along Victoria Road.
Member for Pittwater Jacqui Scruby says the improvement has been immediate.
“Pittwater commuters are already seeing the benefits of bendys returning. I’ve had positive emails, DMs and conversations with
commuters at bus stops, and with zero cancellations on the 190X, the benefits to the whole region are already being noticed,” Scruby says.
Member for Wakehurst Michael Regan says the community has been vocal about the need for action.
“When the bendys were taken off the road, we felt that impact straight away with longer queues and more missed services. Getting them back into service was a priority,” Regan says.
Repairs will continue throughout the year, while the government also prepares to bolster the network with 50 new Euro 6 articulated buses and 10 additional double-deckers. The first new articulated buses are due by the end of 2025, with the double-deckers expected to join the B-Line in 2026.
Busworld Europe finalists revealed
Busworld Europe 2025 has announced the finalists for its 2025 Digital Awards while also shortlisting Innovation Voting companies
With only weeks until Busworld Europe 2025 opens its doors, the organisers have set the stage with three major announcements: the Digital Awards finalists, the shortlist for Innovation Voting and the launch of the official event app.
The Digital Awards recognise standout digital solutions that lift comfort, operations and safety across the bus and coach industry. Finalists span four categories: Digitally Enhanced Driving, Digital Operational Excellence, E-Mobility Management and Digital Onboard Comfort.
“The Busworld Digital Awards celebrate the digital breakthroughs that are reshaping the way buses are driven, managed and experienced,” Busworld managing director Mieke Glorieux says.
The finalists for the Digitally Enhanced Driving award includes Daimler Buses for its MirrorCam product, Knorr-Bremse for its Fusion 3.0 Pedestrian Advanced Emergency Braking Function and MAN with its Dead Driver Stop.
In the Digital Operational Excellence category, Robert Bosch (Secure Central Gateway), Yutong Bus (Link+ Fleet Management) and ZG Group (ZF Bus Connect) are the three
VanderWolf Images/ stock.adobe.com
simulation) and ZF Group (Braking and e-Drive Synergy Program) are the final three.
When it comes to Digital Onboard Comfort, Actia’s Powerdrive Cortex, BatOnRoute’s School and Staff Transport App and Molead’s Intelligent Cockpit System are the finalists.
Winners will be revealed at the Busworld Europe press conference on October 2.
Alongside the awards, the Innovation Voting shortlist has been announced, featuring 22 products and solutions pre-selected by the jury. Every visitor has the opportunity to
Auckland flyover to open early
The eagerly anticipated flyover will open five months early to help reduce congestion at a notorious New Zealand intersection
Auckland Transport has announced a long-awaited flyover over a crucial busway is set to open five months ahead of schedule.
The flyover will reduce congestion around Pakūranga town centre at one of New Zealand’s busiest intersections when it opens early in October.
Auckland Transport says Rā Hihi (flyover), also known as the Reeves
Road flyover, will open to citybound traffic on October 1 and in both directions on Monday October 27. Before that can happen, major work is necessary on Pakūranga Road that will disrupt traffic while lane layouts change.
Rā Hihi is a key part of the Eastern Busway project making bus and car trips quicker and easier.
The flyover will provide a direct
Europe an interactive experience, giving visitors a direct voice in recognising innovation,” Glorieux says.
To support visitors, the organisers have also launched the official Busworld App. Designed for both desktop and mobile, the app helps attendees plan meetings, bookmark sessions and navigate the show floor with an interactive map.
“The Busworld App is the perfect guide for visitors who want to make the most of their time at the show,” Glorieux says.
Busworld 2025 will run from October 4 to 9 in Brussels.
link between Pakūranga Road and Pakūranga Highway, reducing local traffic during peak hours. It will also enable frequent, reliable buses on the Eastern Busway, which is being extended from Pakūranga to Botany. Auckland Transport group manager Jane Small says the flyover will reduce congestion at one of New Zealand’s busiest intersections when fully open. “From Saturday September 20
fewer lanes on Pakūranga Road to enable Rā Hihi (flyover) to open. The most disruptive work will take place during the school holidays between September 20 and 27, when there is less traffic,” Small says.
“Drivers should expect congestion and delays and we suggest planning ahead to avoid travelling at peak times if possible. We will be working round the clock to get the job done.”
Small says Auckland Transport and
worked hard to plan and build the flyover efficiently, resulting in it opening five months ahead of schedule.
“Rā Hihi is a critical part of the Eastern Busway project that’s connecting East Auckland with rapid public transport to the rest of the city. It is the latest major transport improvement we’ve opened as part of the project following the Panmure Station, Panmure
to Pakūranga busway and new Panmure intersection to replace the roundabout,” Small says.
Auckland Transport is integrating public transport like the Eastern Busway as Auckland grows, ensuring new development areas are well connected to public transport and other types of transport to support well-functioning urban environments.
Major work continues to extend the busway from Pakūranga to Botany. Construction is due to be completed by the end of 2026 and the busway will open in 2027 after testing and commissioning.
When it’s finished in 2027, Auckland Transport says the Eastern Busway will help people to travel by bus and train between Botany and Britomart in the city centre. As well as connecting surrounding suburbs with the rail network, it will also make local trips easier by providing more sustainable travel options for walking, biking and using the bus.
to open in early October. Image: Auckland Council
Meeting in the middle
While there’s still a long way to go in the zero-emission transition, BIC highlights the positive trend underpinning the national bus and coach industry
Over the past five years, Australia has witnessed a steady increase in the adoption of zero-emission buses (ZEBs), a trend powered by industryled sustainability initiatives and government direction under the various state and federal net zero policies. However, it has always been understood throughout bus and coach that a successful transition relies on infrastructure development keeping pace.
Industry-led sustainabilityshifts
The transportation sector has been a focal point for decarbonisation efforts given its significant contribution to national emissions, even though buses only contribute 1.8 per cent to overall transport emissions. Bus manufacturers and fleet operators
have led the charge by investing heavily in electric and hydrogen fuel cell technologies, including local design and assembly.
These innovations not only reduce emissions, but provide improved public transport user experience and achieve government expectations for cleaner transport options.
Leadingsector
The accompanying graphic clearly charts this transformation, with ZEB sales climbing from 0.2 per cent in 2020 bus sales to 11 per cent in 2024 (and 18 per cent by July 2025), leading the transition to zero within the automotive sector.
This growth has been despite fluctuations in total bus sales, indicating how ZEBs are capturing a larger share of the market. The dotted yellow trend line underscores the consistent upward momentum in ZEB adoption.
Below:
ZEB bus deliveries have risen with the overall trend in recent years
Policymustmatch infrastructuretosucceed Australia’s commitment to achieving net zero by 2050 has been a powerful catalyst for the embrace and growth of ZEBs. However, the continued rise in sales has identified how policy momentum should mirror infrastructure readiness to optimise deployment.
The Bus Industry Confederation’s (BIC) Driving Towards Zero Emissions 2024 policy position paper highlights this critical condition, stressing that investment in ZEBs must be accompanied by:
• Robust charging and refuelling infrastructure across urban and regional networks;
• Grid capacity upgrades to ensure reliable and sustainable power supply for large-scale electric bus operations, and
• Integrated planning between industry, transport agencies, energy providers and local governments to avoid bottlenecks and delays. Without sufficient infrastructure and energy planning, the rapid roll-out of ZEBs could outpace the systems that support it.
The BIC’s policy calls for a coordinated national approach to infrastructure development, including long-term investment strategies and clear accountability frameworks. Key to this is collaborating with existing industry expertise on infrastructure goals and the solutions to achieve them. While government direction has successfully accelerated ZEB uptake, the next phase of Australia’s net zero journey depends on ensuring that the physical and energy infrastructure is ready to meet the demands of a zero-emission future.
Building momentum
An array of developments and potential releases are underpinning the leading role that VDI and Yutong are taking when it comes to Australia’s technology shift
The seismic shift in technology across Australasia’s public transport industry may have once been a speck in the windscreen. Distant and complicated. Now it is arriving, dominating discussions and leading to real change.
Across cities and towns, communities are calling for cleaner air, quieter streets and smarter ways of moving people. Operators are responding, and the results are already on the road. Small electric buses are connecting local hubs, articulated models are poised to ease pressure on urban corridors and double deckers are set to expand
capacity on the busiest routes. What was once seen as a distant goal is now a daily reality.
In recent times, this change has expanded beyond inner-city routes to the suburbs and regional towns where people need practical connections to the places they work, study and shop. The most recent example is the arrival of the Yutong E7S. Purpose-built as a demand responsive transport solution, the E7S is designed to bring public transport into communities and connect them directly to major commuting hubs.
“For many Australians, the E7S represents the first time they have experienced what a modern, fully
electric bus can deliver,” VDI Australia national sales manager Sara Clark told ABC
“The benefits of the E7S have become clear quickly. It is delivering quieter journeys and cleaner air in the places people live, while also providing a more comfortable ride. For operators, it proves that electric buses are practical for local routes, with lower running costs and less maintenance.
“These qualities are redefining what community transport can be, while showing that zero-emission solutions are not only possible, but already improving daily life.”
The VDI team says the significance
Above: Advanced driver technology with Yutong and VDI in Australia
Images:
VDI
of these smaller buses shouldn’t be underestimated across Australia’s bus and coach industry. Community transport is often where trust in public systems is either built or lost. Parents want confidence that their children’s school bus is safe and reliable. Seniors want assurance that their trip to a health appointment will be comfortable and timely. Councils want solutions that fit their budgets and meet sustainability targets.
In each of these areas, Clark says the E7S demonstrates that the electric transition is practical and effective.
At the same time, cities are looking for solutions that can carry more people and relieve the pressure of growth. The forthcoming Yutong U18 articulated electric bus is designed for exactly that role. With capacity for up to 125 passengers and a low floor design that ensures full accessibility, it delivers the efficiency needed for major routes.
Like its Yutong cousins in the D7E and C12E, the U18 is not an adaptation of diesel technology but a purpose-built electric vehicle, with structural safety, intelligent energy management and Yutong’s proprietary safety standards built in that exceed many legislated standards. For VDI, the incoming model represents the next step in scaling electric buses for Australian operators who are already facing the realities of urban congestion.
Beyond the horizon of current change, the launch of the Yutong double decker electric bus is another signal of what lies ahead for VDI. Recently unveiled at Yutong’s global headquarters in Zhengzhou, it was witnessed first-hand by VDI’s leadership and invited Australian operators, as well as ABC Magazine.
The model offers expanded seating and advanced battery technology, giving operators an option designed for megacities and tourism-heavy corridors. For Australia, it presents new possibilities in areas like major visitor destinations where capacity and passenger experience are equally important.
“Seeing the double decker in development alongside our customers reinforced that Australia
is part of a global transition,” VDI managing director Peter Woodward told ABC
Yutong’s track record backs up that confidence. The company began pioneering battery-electric buses as early as 1999 and has since delivered more than 196,000 new energy buses across 56 countries and regions. Along the way it has earned international recognition, including the Belgium Motor Show Ecological Award in 2017 and Busworld’s Ecology and Design Awards in 2023.
“The scale of Yutong’s commitment to electric buses is unmatched, and it gives us confidence that the solutions we are offering here are tried, tested and supported at the highest level,” Woodward says.
Since deployment of their first zero-emission buses in 2009, Yutong’s ZEB fleet has saved 9.6 billion litres of fuel and avoided 28.5 million tonnes of CO2 emissions, demonstrating the proven reliability of its battery technology on a global scale.
From the customer side, Clark says these new models, including the double decker on display in China, expand on an existing ZEB range that is already serving a variety of routes across Australia. She says these buses are demonstrating that whatever the requirement, whether it be a community shuttle, urban connector, tourist coach or high-capacity mover, an electric solution is ready.
Most importantly, VDI’s expanding range shows that the market is no longer being asked whether electric buses will work, but rather how quickly operators can integrate them into their fleets.
“Our operators came away with a sense of what this means for their fleets in real terms,” she says.
“They saw how these buses are built for reliability and safety, not just adapted from existing designs. It confirmed that the electric future is not something to wait for, it is something to plan for now.”
However, the momentum building towards zero-emissions buses doesn’t come without its challenges in the local space. The VDI team admits questions remain about infrastructure, cost and long-term performance, but real-world results are addressing those concerns.
Trials in Australia are already proving durability and efficiency, while international deployments have logged millions of kilometres across extreme climates and diverse terrains. When compared with the rising costs of fuel and the regulatory pressure to cut emissions, the
Below:
The latest safety technology is key to Yutong’s product evolution
VDI’s Peter Woodward (centre) with international customers viewing the new Yutong double decker
to fewer vehicles on congested roads. These are benefits that extend beyond transport departments and into health outcomes, urban planning and community wellbeing.
“What matters most is that these solutions are not theoretical. They are operating today, with more on the
mobility. The U18 is preparing to bring heavy-duty zero-emission power to urban corridors. The double decker is setting new benchmarks for capacity and passenger comfort.”
Together, these models demonstrate that Australia’s
Above: Interior of the U18, designed to bring flexibility and capacity to public transport
means, their answer is clear. Legacy is not about looking back on the good old days of diesel,” Clark says.
“It is about what these choices create for the future. Cleaner air, quieter streets and reliable services that people can depend on for
building, alongside the operators and
A bus with ineffective or faulty air conditioning can harm your reputation, inconvenience passengers and disrupt schedules.
TRS Transit has kept Sydney’s buses and coaches cool and reliable since 19 .
Our St Peters team provides expert servicing, preventive maintenance and fast repairs to keep your fleet on the road.
Redefining support
The legacy of Bus Stop Sales and King Long continues to grow in Australia, as the partnership forges a new benchmark for customer support and service in the local bus industry
In today’s Australasian bus market, strength is measured not only in vehicle quality but also in the commitment behind it. True leadership is demonstrated through innovation, consistency and the confidence customers place in the brand that supports them.
As one of the world’s largest bus manufacturers, King Long has made decisive investments to solidify its position as a trusted partner for Australian operators. Whether by strengthening local aftersales and engineering resources or establishing its landmark Auburn facility in Sydney, King Long is reshaping expectations of what a global brand can deliver at a local level.
“This is more than growth – it’s a strategic evolution, underpinned by people, presence and partnership,” director of Bus Stop Sales (King Long’s
exclusive Australian distributor) Pete White told ABC
“The heartbeat of operator confidence lies in the reliability of aftersales. King Long has acted decisively to strengthen that foundation.”
A renewed focus on local technical expertise now ensures customers have direct access to specialists who know the product inside out. Dedicated bodybuilder support teams streamline compliance and integration, while additional engineering staff bridge the gap between the factory in China and Australian operating realities.
One of the clearest commitments to this strategy is Bus Stop’s $2 million-plus spare parts inventory, ensuring operators have immediate access to critical components and minimising downtime. For
Above:
A focus on aftersales and customer service has been pivotal to Bus Stop’s ongoing growth
customers, support no longer feels like an offshore afterthought – it’s embedded locally, available when needed and delivered by experts.
“Aftersales support is what solidifies ongoing relationships. It cannot be an afterthought – it’s the foundation of long-term trust,” Bus Stop general manager of national fleet Stephen Long told ABC
Australia is one of the most demanding bus markets in the world, and King Long has made Australia a global priority. Operators benefit from closer collaboration with senior engineering and manufacturing teams, driving faster issue resolution and the continuous refinement of product design.
“I am astounded by the product excellence and dedication of our Australian distributor,” King Long country manager Harvey Zhang says.
Images:
Bus Stop Sales
global manufacturing capability and local expertise combine to deliver unmatched results for operators.”
The latest jewel in this commitment is King Long’s Auburn hub in Sydney.
More than a facility, it is the company’s newest centre of collaboration and customer support, anchored by a refreshed regional leadership structure.
Industry veteran Jim Hawkesford leads as general manager for NSW and ACT, supported in the southern states by John Fish, whose long career with a leading European brand has made him widely respected for his customer commitment, technical know-how and product support. Trusted names such as Guy Pex and Sammy Petrevski continue to provide continuity, while Jason Murrell extends Auburn’s reach through mobile service across NSW. In South Australia, respected industry figure Rick Simmons has joined as business development manager, ensuring strong local connections.
For more than a decade, White says Bus Stop Sales has been at the forefront of Chinese bus distribution in Australia. Under White’s leadership, the move to King Long has redefined
product with renewed credibility, deeper aftersales support and long-term product commitment.
Each King Long model is tailored to Australian conditions, featuring componentry from trusted global brands such as Cummins, ZF, Allison and CATL, while integrating seamlessly with local bodybuilders. Operator trials of the 12m King Long coach with ZF independent suspension have been described as “remarkable” by customers, with drive quality setting a new benchmark in the class.
“As many operators now say, ‘everyone who drives a King Long falls in love’,” White says with pride.
He adds that the difference in the product is significant. While King Long may not always be the cheapest option, he says operators seeking the best components, the strongest support and the greatest overall value have voted with their feet.
Competition is inevitable, but White believes the response must always be the same: to strive for improvement, to continually strengthen support, to continually seek better ways and to lead the field.
Growth has been reinforced by
the past 12 months, including David Lowe as executive general manager, bringing global OEM leadership experience. Dan Queen leads aftersales support from the Brisbane headquarters and Paul Murphy, as national parts manager, works alongside long-standing advisor Michael Haydock. Together, these appointments have created one of the strongest support networks in the Australian market.
Bus Stop is also looking ahead, developing a battery-electric vehicle training program for staff and the wider industry as further proof of its commitment to supporting the transition to zero-emission transport.
Backed by a strengthened parts inventory, factory investment, the landmark Auburn hub and a leadership team stacked with expertise, King Long has evolved from a global manufacturer into a trusted Australian partner.
“As one operator told us, the true strength of a brand lies in how it supports its customers after the sale,” White says.
“And in Australia, no one is doing that better than King Long.”
Bus Stop’s home base in Brisbane is continuing to expand
Complex fleets demand simple solutions. BCC’s modular HVAC systems adapt to the unique needs of transit, coach, school and charter fleets, delivering comfort, efficiency, and seamless integration that takes the pressure off your team. Learn more at www.bcc-hvac.com
Global glory
In recent years, Yutong has emerged as a leading bus and coach manufacturer around the world, including in Australia. Sean Mortell headed to Yutong’s Zhengzhou home base to discover the total dedication that is driving the brand to new heights in the local market
As one of the largest producers of buses and coaches around the world, the stature of Yutong Bus is well-known. Notorious, even. Over the past two decades, the Chinese bus manufacturer has become a behemoth in many markets, most recently in Australia, where ABC ’s deliveries data has it as the second most popular bus brand in total segments for 2024.
But just how massive is the home of Yutong? This question crossed my mind numerous times on the flight into Zhengzhou, in the heart of mainland China. As the plane dovetailed in and around Zhengzhou Airport, an aerial view of the vast city opened my eyes to the sheer size of the city itself.
An hour later, I was given a
first-hand glance at the imposing size of Yutong’s homebase. The welcoming Yutong team was on hand to usher me into a Yutong T7 model to start, with the polished floors providing a comfortable space as we rode through Zhengzhou’s outer suburbs. Fast-forward the best part of an hour and a collection of high rise towers neatly lined in rows and emblazoned with the Yutong logo on them nearly peeled my eyes away from the gates on the other side of the road that held back the brand’s factory and premises.
I was in the middle of what felt like a Yutong neighbourhood. This became my introduction to the 1.33 million square metre Eastern International Logistics Park, the global home of Yutong Bus.
Since 1963, Yutong has steadily
Above:
The U18 was just the st art of Yutong’s technology prowess on display in Zhengzhou
emerged as a global powerhouse in the bus and coach market. It has been number one in global market sales since 2016 while its decision to export globally two decades ago now sees it hold 10 per cent of the global market share.
“Our philosophy is that a better bus provides a better life,” Yutong Asia-Pacific CEO Kent Chang told ABC
“As we expand globally, a lot of operators have the same request –high standards.”
While many in the local bus market are well aware of Yutong and its Australian distributor Vehicle Dealers International (VDI), the Zhengzhou-based brand is still a sleeping giant on the global stage. ABC deliveries data has Yutong as the number two highest selling chassis
Images:
brand in Australia behind Volvo across all market size segments, while across the world it is the world’s leading electric bus and coach manufacturer with around 30 per cent of global and domestic sales combined.
It meant that it should’ve come as no surprise that Yutong’s mammoth home base in Zhengzhou has the capacity to produce 445 units each and every day while also leading the way in the latest bus and coach technological developments. It still didn’t prepare me for the sheer size of Yutong’s facility, that spans a marketing centre that resembles a high-rise office building, its own hotel, various other skyscraper-esque buildings and a factory that includes its own multi-lane wide roads, a testing track featuring a high-speed loop and enough R&D centres that they have to be numbered.
Over the couple of days spent at Yutong’s Zhengzhou home, the many welcoming employees give us a tour of the testing track, its advanced electrocoating facility, the incredibly vast factory that encompasses hundreds of vehicles in build, the various R&D centres and a live display of its latest electric battery safety technology.
The coup-de-grace of the visit was the display of Yutong’s latest battery technology featuring a live demonstration. In Australia, Yutong’s
electric range, including its Yutong Electric Architecture (YEA), has been part of the fleet since last year after an Asia-Pacific launch. This has now been taken to the next level as Yutong showcased a clear example of its recent expertise in the injection of nitrogen into its battery packs.
By replacing oxygen, the nitrogen injection that Yutong has been using in its battery packs in recent years is setting a new standard in bus battery safety. The live demonstration, conducted in near-40 degree Celsius weather, saw two batteries – one with oxygen in it and another with nitrogen injected – wired. Once the temperature increased, the durability of the nitrogen injected battery under pressure became clear as the oxygen battery quickly burst into flames.
It may have been harsh, but it was a clear example of how Yutong’s testing and development is placing it at the forefront of global bus technology.
“This nitrogen injection technology is a crucial part of our solutions moving forward – while the physical exterior of the bus looks the same, the inside of the battery is different with nitrogen being injected into the pack,” Yutong Australia managing director Charles Hwang told ABC “It’s all about keeping the battery as isolated as possible. We encourage the industry to follow so we can see more and more in the market
providing leading safety technology.”
Another key highlight of the visit was to understand Yutong’s domestic bus power, including in Zhengzhou. On the very first day we were off to a depot within the Zhengzhou CBD, near the newly emerging financial district, where autonomous Yutong models run a pre-set loop around the circular streets. While there’s a driver required to be at the helm of the bus, we watched on in awe as he kept his arms crossed for most of the journey, only intervening to grab the wheel when a temporary traffic sign meant we had to divert off the usual course. When returning to the depot, we all hopped off and the bus parked itself without anyone onboard, reversing under a pantograph charger to ensure it had enough juice for the next day. This technology was then seen again within Yutong’s own confines as we were carted around the mammoth factory towards the testing track in a Xiaoyu 2.0 autonomous bus, which won a Red Dot Design Award back in 2021. The small bus has no room for a driver, as there’s no steering wheel or driver’s bay present. A bunch of us jumped in and we were soon transported in a row of autonomous buses down to the track, which included water testing and the popular high-speed loop track.
A quick ride on one of the several buses zooming around the track showed us the intense focus that Yutong puts into its models before releasing them to the market. A variety of diesel and electric buses took to the private road, banking along the velodrome-style loop at 90km/h before completing tight turns and riding along bumpy roads to ensure each model is ready for a wide range of conditions. The water testing track also catered to monsoon-areas in the Asia-Pacific like Singapore and Hong Kong to ensure Yutong buses can travel safely through heavy rain. Why does it go to the effort of all of this? According to Chang and Hwang, it’s all about another important Yutong philosophy that has allowed it to bolster its reputation across the globe.
“Never take the market as the testing ground – take the testing ground as the market,” Chang says.
Above: Yutong’s main factory was filled with hundreds of buses
To cap off the extraordinary tour, Yutong also gave us Australian attendees a glimpse into what may be coming our way. While the U18 and E7S have already been announced as en-route to Australian shores in the next year, a taller cousin may soon be joining it if all goes to plan.
was the new U12DD double decker
electric bus. While it was originally designed for the high-frequency Singaporean market, Yutong is seeking approval to bring it to
could prove to be the answer for an ongoing opportunity in Australia’s busiest city.
“We’re fully aware of what is happening along Sydney’s famous Northern Beaches (B-Line) network and it’s of interest,” Hwang says.
“While doing this, we’re also tendering to introduce the U18 to New Zealand. We have a lot of product ready to be launched in Australia, and our Zhengzhou base shows the technology we have at our fingertips.”
As the whirlwind tour wrapped up and I was now flying further away from the expansive metropolis that is Zhengzhou, one thought consumed me. Yutong’s technological dreams aren’t just fantasies – the global bus manufacturer has backed every development along its journey to date with hours of hard work and testing. It’s exciting to ponder what may be coming next to one of its leading markets in Australia.
high-speed test loop
European edge
Over the past 18 months, BCI has found rich success in offering a leading body model on top of two European chassis products
It was only 18 months ago when Bus & Coach International (BCI) first announced its collaboration with two global OEMs in Australia. At the time, the phenomenon of bus and coach suppliers joining forces to provide leading models in the local market was inking another chapter as BCI announced its partnership with both Volvo and Scania.
Now, the combination is also serving to be a hit among local customers as BCI confirmed the sale of its 100th body built on a Volvo chassis in Australia in late August. The speedy milestone is clear proof for BCI national sales manager Cameron
Millen that BCI’s high-quality body has found two partners worthy of largescale success in Australia.
“It’s a significant milestone to bring up in such a short space of time,” he told ABC
“In that time, we’ve built coaches, school buses, low floor models and a range of other products with Volvo and Scania.”
While the partnerships were first announced to the local bus industry in April last year, the origins of the company collaboration first arose at the 2023 Busworld Expo in Belgium. When BCI and a group of Australian operators made the trip to Europe for the global event, they visited Scania
Above:
Over the past year and a half, BCI has sold roughly 170 bodies on Scania and Volvo chassis
and Volvo’s bus plants in the Swedish cities of Stockholm and Gothenburg respectively.
The tour inspired customers to express their interest in the possibility of combining BCI’s body with a chassis sourced from Europe. Thus the wheels were set in motion for a partnership that is quickly flourishing on the other side of the world.
“Considering the commercial advantages of such an alliance, the opportunity for innovation and the benefits of sharing a powerful aftermarket network, it’s surprising that this possibility wasn’t considered in advance,” Millen says.
“The experience was very enriching
for the group and immediately fuelled the interest in acquiring vehicles from one or another chassis manufacturer with the BCI body.”
The first steps came from operators Murrays and Go West Tours, with the latter choosing to order the very first BCI and Volvo combinations suited to Australian demands. The Sweden visit proved to be the catalyst, as Go West came back from Europe having seen the final stages of production of its Volvo chassis order completed before it was shipped to Australia.
“Starting our journey with Volvo saw Go West order the very first combined products, which kickstarted the process and our ongoing success together,” Millen says.
“Our engineering teams have worked with both chassis partners to ensure we get the product right, and it’s been a relatively smooth journey since.”
The decision to listen to customer wishes and partner with European chassis OEMs was no maiden voyage for the BCI team. Millen says BCI first started building with Mercedes-Benz just over a decade ago before the European supplier pulled out of Australia in early 2023. In the two years since, BCI hunted for ways to put its experience building on European chassis to work.
The opportunity to work with both Volvo and Scania proved to be the answer, with the century of deliveries with the former highlighting to BCI that it made the right call.
“The first lot of buses we built on Volvo chassis included deliveries for Western Australia’s mining sector through Go West, and this 100th
delivery is of the same mining bus specification,” Millen says.
“It’s quite fitting. At the same time, we’ve also delivered over 70 models with Scania chassis on them, so both combinations are having success.”
The 100th bus delivery was celebrated at the BCI factory, with both BCI and Volvo Australia senior management attending the special launch.
Millen says a critical part of this growth in such a short patch of time has come from BCI hosting both Volvo and Scania engineers at its local WA factory numerous times. This dedication to fostering the partnership has seen BCI become one of Volvo’s preferred bodybuilders in the Asia-Pacific region.
“Considering it’s a relatively new relationship, there were always going to be some hurdles to jump through when we began building on new products to us,” Millen says.
“It was new for both sides, but we put a focus early on ensuring we build to their high standards and it’s gone well from our perspective. The buses are in service and operators have been really happy with them, so there’s a lot more to come and plenty in build as we speak.”
A surprise that arose from the ever-evolving partnerships was the realisation that BCI shared mutual customers with the two chassis OEMs, making delivery processes even simpler than usual. By combining Volvo and Scania’s leading safety technology on the chassis with BCI’s high-quality bodies, the bodybuilder’s existing models have been given a new lease
of life in the past year and a half.
“Some of the biggest customers we’ve had to date include our foundation partners in Go West and Murrays,” Millen says.
“From the get-go, 10 Volvo-BCI models went to Go West, while Murrays has ordered more than 20 buses in the past 18 months featuring these combinations. The feedback we’ve gotten from both is that they’re very happy with the design, the passenger comfort and the fuel economy – the maiden deliveries were Go West’s first Volvo products they received, so they loved the opportunity to enjoy the new chassis with our familiar body on top.”
From the chassis side, Volvo has been able to further cement its leading position in the Australian bus market courtesy of the BCI partnership. Volvo Bus Australia general manager Mitch Peden says the evolving combination with BCI has been an immediate success and is looking forward to what the pair can do together in future.
“Listening to operators has been the starting point. Partnering with BCI means we can pair Volvo’s proven chassis and support with BCI’s body capability to deliver exactly what customers need,” he told ABC
“At the heart of this partnership are shared values. Whether it’s Volvo’s legacy in safety or BCI’s commitment to quality, we are united in our mission to provide buses that are reliable, safe and built for the future.”
From BCI’s side, Millen and the team are ready to continue expanding the product range. With further developments being teased as on the cards in the near future, Millen is excited about how BCI can build on the rapidly growing foundations it has laid with the two OEMs in the years ahead.
“Combining both models, we’ve sold more than 170 buses in 18 months on European chassis,” Millen says.
“The mixture of our leading bodies with high-quality European safety features has resulted in a very refined product across both the bus and coach segments that we can’t wait to continue working with.”
Above: BCI’s decision to partner with Volvo and Scania has already paid off in WA
Meet Roland Tornyai, the energetic and beloved tour-de-force that is the inaugural winner of ABC ’s Happiest Bus Driver competition
What are the first words you’d expect to hear from Australia’s ‘Happiest Bus Driver’? Upon my first time meeting the inaugural winner, it should come as no surprise that he led with a joke. While the resulting chat with Roland Tornyai was full of laughter and cheek, the Hungarian immigrant soon exuded a passion and care for driving people each and every day that made him a deserving winner of ABC Magazine’s ‘Happiest Bus Driver’ competition.
“I’ve learned that it’s not just about driving the bus – I want to connect with the people I drive,” he told ABC “I see these people every day, and my mantra has been to be happy to people and receive happiness back. A happy bus makes for a happy life.”
The H-word is a constant theme of our conversation – fitting for the competition and what ABC was
striving to find in Australia’s bus driver cohort. However, Roland’s passion for buses hasn’t been an ongoing fanaticism. It was only three years ago that he came into the caper when he traded the hustle and bustle of a frantic kitchen for a similar stress in hopping behind the wheel of a 20-tonne bus.
“I was first a delivery driver after being a chef as I’ve rode motorbikes for all my life,” he says.
“I dreamt of getting a bus and licence to make myself a caravan, but then I found out how much it cost to get your licence. I had to start saving!
“About three years ago the company I was working for suddenly closed down and just days later I had no job or income. Luckily my wife told me Transdev John Holland Buses needed drivers, so I filled out the form and by Monday I was getting involved.”
Like any new driver hired by
Above: Roland Tornyai’s exuberance and positivity makes him a deserving winner
Transdev John Holland Buses in Sydney, Roland cut his teeth behind the wheel at the operator’s Port Botany depot. Being just around the corner from his house, Roland was able to learn the routes in his community as he was put through his paces over a few weeks.
Three years ago he wasn’t as confident as he is now steering a bus through Sydney’s winding streets. He remembers feeling uncomfortable and not ready to begin taking passengers throughout his training weeks. With some additional training under his belt, it was soon time for Roland to dive into the deep end and experience his very own bus route run.
“Somehow I had to start enduring the massive 20-tonne big box that is a bus,” he says.
“I had never driven heavy vehicles before, but I decided that I had to be like a mirror – if I was happy, then the
Images: Transdev John Holland
people around me would be.”
He quickly learnt that driving a bus full of passengers on the road was a different experience in itself. Luckily, his cheerful nature drew the crucial help of patrons and allowed him to get through the challenging first
“On my second day I was driving the 379 route and I took a wrong turn,” Roland recalls.
“An old lady came to me after the turn and said, ‘Darling, you’re going the wrong way, but don’t worry, I’ll help you’. She was an angel in an old lady’s body and she taught me the right way to go so that I wouldn’t
“Not long after, another passenger helped me get the right turns on a different route. I worked out that if I was happy around my passengers, they would in turn help me. If I was going to be a bus driver, I may as well be the best and happiest in
It was at this point that Roland’s infectious personality started shining through. When out on the roads, he began greeting his passengers warmly and asking them how they were. When passing another bus, he always waves at them. While many drivers didn’t originally share the love, Roland remarks with a cheeky grin that now plenty wave back and then talk to him at the depot.
Like any new driver at Transdev John Holland Buses, Roland soon graduated to the Waverley depot, which is the home of some of Sydney’s most intimidating and hectic bus routes. Once new drivers are trained at either the Port Botany or Randwick depots, the bus operator may move them to Waverley to experience the intense population and technical drives that summarise Sydney’s largest routes.
Over the past two years, Roland has been tackling these routes with aplomb and is now a popular member of the local community. His routes include the well-known 333 from Sydney to Bondi Beach, where he spends the summer transporting hordes of crowds to and from Sydney’s majestic beaches.
“Now, some of these routes I know
so well that I could do them with my eyes closed,” he says.
“These suburbs have some beautiful people. I feel like I’m driving in my local suburb and transporting my family around, such is the happiness that I encounter while driving.”
What else makes Roland a deserving winner of Australia’s Happiest Bus Driver? It’s the little touches that stand out – Roland goes to the effort of putting on his own music on each run, tailoring the genre to the suburb he is driving in and the passengers he expects.
“It changes depending on the suburb, for areas that have younger passengers I’ll play house and R&B music, while for suburbs where there may be lots of pensioners boarding I play classic and ‘70s music,” he says.
“One time I had a lady sitting on the bus for the entire route, she said she had good music playing and comfortable air-conditioning and she had plenty of time, so she wanted to keep enjoying the ride.”
It’s this special care and energetic nature that has made Roland a favourite both inside the depot and out on the streets. Transdev John Holland Buses has been flooded with good feedback and compliments for Roland from passengers, while among the drivers he is helping inspire them to make healthier life choices.
It all stems from his own experiences – when he was a chef
he didn’t exercise, but he has now transformed his health and fitness and is passing on his healthy lifestyle advice to other drivers.
“I think it’s so important to have better food on the table and have better energy when driving,” he says.
“If you get good petrol into your body, you can go forever. Food is your energy, and if you eat well then you live well.”
In just three years, Roland has become a shining light in Transdev John Holland Buses’ Waverley depot. Having received the company’s GEM Award for excellent service and developed plenty of friends for his passion and energetic nature, he is now also the inaugural winner of Australia’s Happiest Bus Driver. While doing so, he continues to build a collection of 189 selfies with co-workers at the Waverley depot that include drivers, duty officers, managers, cleaners and all others. When interviewing him, he was preparing to take another with a fellow colleague. He’s adamant that he’s not finished yet.
“I see a lot of beautiful people and culture,” he says.
“My lovely father told me this when I was 18. In front of the door, you can go out and find anything you want. Wife, yourself, your life – no one’s holding your hand. Find everything yourself, for your life. Be kind, be healthy, look after yourself and be strong.”
Above: You couldn’t ask for a friendlier face than Roland’s when boarding a bus
On the rise
A suite of new electric HVAC models featuring the latest air-conditioning technology is spurring Spheros onto greater heights in the local market
It’s on the hottest of days that it stands out. Sweat pouring down the forehead. Water being chugged down by the litre. The scalding hot seatbelt buckle that sizzles at the touch. When these scorching days of heat and sun descend on Australia, the value of high-quality air-conditioning units onboard buses and coaches comes to the fore.
While HVAC technology has been consistently improving throughout the years in the local market, the recent industry trend towards adopting zero-emissions systems has taken on a new meaning in the air-conditioning game. Previously, the latest and greatest HVAC solutions for diesel buses and coaches were all about capacity and power – two factors that often lead to larger and heavier units.
Fast-forward to 2025 and the bus and coach sector has shifted its requirements, calling for air-conditioning units that are light, sleek and compact to fit on the latest models of zero-emissions vehicles. For suppliers like Spheros, this challenge has been
met with innovation and flexibility.
“The electrification of the local bus industry has driven us to develop a range of enhancements for our latest models,” Spheros Australia general manager Paul Williams told ABC
“Our systems now extend beyond traditional air-conditioning – they cool batteries and components and improve passenger and driver cabin comfort.”
The latest HVAC units arriving in Australia from Spheros reflect the company’s ongoing commitment to innovation in zero-emissions transport. Spheros is continuously working to reduce the overall mass of its electric air-conditioning systems, helping to minimise energy consumption and extend the driving range of electric buses.
At the same time, the company maintains the high performance and long-term durability for which it is renowned in the Australasian market. These advancements play a critical role in supporting the transition towards more efficient and sustainable public transport solutions. However, its developments aren’t
Above:
Expect the latest HVAC technology on Australasian buses in the near future courtesy of Spheros
just limited to weight and quality. Spheros has introduced battery cooling technology that caters for the changing trend of managing temperatures within the electric batteries, while also focusing on keeping the driver area comfortable and cool at all times.
These recent developments have driven the introduction of a new range of options and models in the Australian market over the past year. Spheros has been a pioneer in battery cooling since 2014 with the introduction of the first E-Cooler five kW model for hybrid and electric buses. In 2024, a 10 kW independent battery cooling system was unveiled, equipped with active and passive cooling, a heating circuit, a central coolant pump and all essential components. The Spheros E-Cooler is a compact, true stand-alone solution and is already in series production.
This upgrade reflects the company’s commitment to continuous improvement and responsiveness to market feedback. The new system delivers precise thermal management for vehicle batteries, allowing the
Images: Spheros
main HVAC unit to focus exclusively on maintaining optimal passenger cabin conditions.
Globally, there’s more on the way. Williams says that Spheros is planning to unveil three new models at this year’s Busworld Expo in Brussels, Belgium, starting with the world premiere of the REVO®-E R290. Using the eco-friendly refrigerant R290, the R290 model will be joined by the launch of the REVO®-E HP R744 GEN2 and the REVO®-E Global GEN2 units.
The fully electric REVO®-E Global builds on nearly a decade of field experience in international bus markets. Now, the second generation of this product line is being launched, offering 20 per cent higher efficiency and 10 per cent more cooling capacity compared to its predecessor – thanks to optimised components and intelligent system control. An optional battery thermal management (BTM) system can also be integrated. Courtesy of its modular design and a wide range of additional features, the REVO®-E Global is ideally suited to global applications and offers tailored solutions for all bus types and climate zones.
condenser,” Williams says.
“This means that this model significantly reduces in-cabin noise while maintaining strong duct air pressure. It represents a major advancement in passenger comfort and is especially suited to demanding environments like mining operations.”
Alongside this product innovation, growth in the local air-conditioning market has been an increasing commitment to provide the very best service and support for customers.
The trio of REVO®-E models showcased at Busworld will be available globally during 2026. Engineered in Germany, this innovative line is built to deliver reliable cooling performance – even in the hottest climates. Each unit is tailored with specific regional conditions in mind, but Spheros offers flexible solutions to meet the unique needs of any customer. According to Williams, Spheros will be able to adapt these German-engineered systems to suit the demands of the Australian market while maintaining the same high standards of quality and performance.
These units will follow in the footsteps of Spheros’ current electric bus air-conditioner units enjoying success in the local market.
While Spheros is already seeing unit sales increase in its electric operations, the newly launched CC490 unit in Australia is also set to adorn local diesel buses after the first model was bought by Port Stephens Coaches.
Recognising the growing demand for zero-emissions transport in New South Wales, where zero-emissions transport mandates have seen the state’s operators lead the way in ordering electric buses and coaches, Spheros has evolved its aftersales care when it comes to its latest range of HVAC units.
“We are dedicated to enhancing our service capabilities nationwide to meet the evolving needs of our customers,” Williams says.
“We’re in the process of building a national service technician network, with technicians being strategically positioned across key regions and equipped with service vehicles to respond promptly to any inquiries. They will support warranty-covered vehicles as well as ongoing service and maintenance requirements, ensuring minimal downtime for operators.
“Our goal is to significantly reduce response times and provide timely, reliable support to customers throughout Australia.”
A lot has happened in the past year for Spheros. Prior to 2024, the
the global business, Spheros has now returned to its roots and is operating independently once again.
“It’s exciting to return to the Spheros brand and focus on what we do best,” Williams says.
Outside of this wide range of changes made in recent times, Williams has also noted the demand for Spheros’ spare parts range growing in the Australian market. The increase closely mirrors the rise in electric unit sales, creating a two-pronged avenue for growth in Australia.
“While our spare parts side has consistently grown over time, in the past two years alone this sector has almost doubled in growth,” he says.
“This is because customers are committed to maintaining our units and using our genuine parts to ensure the reliability and performance of their Spheros units.”
All of this represents a significant period of change for Williams and the Spheros team. Yet, much like the refreshing airflow delivered by Spheros’ expanding range of diesel and electric HVAC systems across an increasing number of Australian buses and coaches, the team is approaching the future with confidence and composure – ready to embrace the opportunities ahead.
“It’s encouraging to witness progress in both our electric drive units and spare parts divisions within the Australian market,” Williams says.
“We remain committed to broadening our national service network to support and sustain this growth effectively.”
SConstant presence
For decades TRS Transit has been a popular part of Australia’s bus and coach air-conditioning market. At the centre of its ongoing rise is its St Peters branch
ince 2018, Sydney’s bus and coach industry has been fortunate to have a helping hand close by to cater to its air-conditioning needs. Alongside its national reputation in transport refrigeration, TRS has built a strong presence in bus and coach air conditioning service, beginning with government fleet contracts in Sydney in the early 2000s.
Fast forward to seven years ago and TRS’ involvement in the bus scene justified the decision to open an offshoot branch separate to its Huntingwood head office.
Situated on the opposite side of the city to TRS’ previous Blacktown base, the decision to open the St Peters branch in 2018 was all about providing a convenient headquarters for the company’s growing bus and coach air-conditioning service operations.
“We opened the St Peters branch because there was the need for a site that was close to the city and airport, where buses were already running around,” TRS Transit St Peters branch
manager Paul Wilson told ABC
“We moved down to St Peters because a lot of bus businesses operated near here and we didn’t want them driving to Huntingwood and back just to get their air-conditioning units fixed.”
Having established itself as a leading air-conditioning repair company for Sydney’s major bus fleets, the decision paid off immediately. Nowadays, TRS is the go-to HVAC repairer for big bus fleets based in suburbs like Waverley, Randwick, Botany and Brookvale. By being situated close to them, this has allowed more customers to easily drop by and choose TRS as their air-conditioning repairer, including the various small to medium fleets that TRS also services.
“It was a business decision to situate ourselves in the area and be close to customers that we work for,” Wilson says.
“When a technician needs to race back to the branch to grab something for a job, they now no longer have to go out west and
back again – it’s easier to come to St Peters and it results in getting the job done quicker.”
Much has changed since TRS expanded back in 2018, but the St Peters site has stood the test of time. While the facility retains its original footprint, the equipment inside has continually evolved to meet the changing needs of the bus and coach industry.
This includes the addition of height safety equipment in its workshop, allowing technicians to work on three buses at a time. By installing gantries that allow technicians to safely access the roof of a bus and reach the air-conditioning unit, safety harnesses have ensured that all staff are protected when repairing the numerous bus air-conditioners that roll through the St Peters branch.
“It’s changed from the old days when technicians used to pull up on the side of the road and hop on the roof to fix the air-conditioning unit – that can’t be done anymore. Legislation states it’s not a safe nor acceptable working environment,” Wilson says.
Above: TRS’ St Peters branch is a leader in the Sydney bus sector
“The change means that operators and customers must have this equipment installed at their depot if they want us to come and work at their premises. If not, then the bus needs to come to us – we are set up properly to do this and we have bus operators who come to us from all over the state.”
From the western regions of NSW to the Mid-North Coast and then down to the South Coast, TRS’ investment in its safety processes has paid off. With all necessary equipment installed and functioning, the St Peters branch is often a hive of activity as TRS’ wave of customers continue bringing their buses to the site to keep their air-conditioning units in top shape.
From metropolitan bus operators to a range of private schools who use the holiday periods to get their school buses serviced, a diverse array of buses are choosing to go to TRS to maintain their air-conditioning capabilities.
“While physically the site hasn’t changed much, we’ve adapted our
own processes and equipment to make sure everyone is safe and that we get a good outcome when we work on a bus,” Wilson says.
This investment hasn’t just been limited to TRS’ safety equipment.
Wilson and the team are aware that finding air-conditioning technicians isn’t an easy task. To counteract this challenge, TRS has updated its training capabilities to provide more people with the chance to become bus and coach air-conditioning servicing experts.
“There’s not a lot of people around who have been trained in bus air-conditioners, it’s such a specialised industry,” Wilson says.
“We’ve managed to build our team well and we’re evolving in an ongoing process. That includes bringing people onboard who have a background in heavy or light vehicle mechanics and training them to get all of the required licenses and accreditation.
“From working at height courses to refrigeration handling licenses, all of our staff are properly trained to
provide the best possible service for bus operator customers.”
With there being several air-conditioning brands selling HVAC units into the Australian bus industry, Wilson and his team have ensured technicians receive training on working with units from the likes of Thermo King, Denso and Spheros, among others. With fleets featuring a diverse range of air-conditioning brands nowadays, Wilson says this investment is worth its weight in gold as more and more customers choose to use TRS for their servicing needs.
“We currently have seven bus technicians in our team that look after roughly 2,000 buses around Sydney,” he says.
“Some of these are for maintenance contracts and others are for long-term clients we do service work for, while we also do work for private schools and their fleets.”
Additionally, TRS’ expanding expertise in bus and coach HVAC units has resulted in a strong collection of spare parts. With the St Peters branch now being a bus and coach hub, customers from the likes of the Northern Territory and Western Australia reach out across the country to buy spare parts from TRS.
This deep knowledge and standing within the industry means TRS, and specifically its St Peters site, is synonymous with bus and coach air-conditioning units and any servicing needs that come with it. Wilson says this carefully crafted reputation means TRS is here to stay in St Peters.
“TRS has been in business for more than 40 years and we’re not going anywhere,” he says.
“We want to continue elevating the business and training our technicians to provide the best service. Our evolution will involve continual improvement at the St Peters branch so people know that we do a good job every time.
“Hopefully customers continue enjoying the value of bringing a bus to us each year and receiving consistent high-quality. We’ll keep building on what we’ve always done and provide a constant presence in the local bus industry.”
Above: TRS is also focusing on training its st aff to lead the way in HVAC servicing
Simple solution
While it was officially launched at last year’s National Bus and Coach Show, Queensland Thermo King’s CF-1100A offers a welcome new unit for regional diesel buses and coaches
For years, the transition to zero-emissions buses and coaches has been a hot topic of discussion in Australia and its surrounds. With mandates changing and requirements evolving, how and when operators will adapt the latest low-emission technology has been the pre-eminent issue of the local bus industry this decade.
As time evolves, the ever-changing nature of the transition has proven the value that high-quality diesel bus products still hold. At QTK Group, this resulted in the air-conditioning suppliers unveiling the brand-new CF-1100A unit at last year’s National Bus and Coach Show in a bold step for regional operators wanting to enhance their diesel bus technology.
“With so much uncertainty in the industry right now, QTK feels that a trusted diesel solution will be well-received by the market,” QTK customer solutions manager Allan Lowes told ABC
“The transition to electric isn’t linear, and there’s still a need for diesel buses. The CF-1100A is a dependable solution that can be easily supported by local service providers, allowing users to maintain operational efficiently without the immediate need for a complete transition to the electric market.”
Lowes describes the CF-1100A as a unit that is “more simplistic” in the design of its controlling system. The new A/C system from Thermo King is suitable for medium to large diesel buses and comes from a well-known and trusted HVAC manufacturer that can be easily supported throughout Australia, with QTK Group’s national team to increase uptime.
The question begs – why, in an industry that seems to be so focused on only introducing zero-emissions technology, has QTK Group together with Thermo King bucked the trend to
welcome a brand-new diesel model to its mix?
For Lowes and the QTK team, the introduction of the CF-1100A isn’t catering for the vocal members of the industry welcoming electric or hydrogen bus technology. Instead, it’s for the many regional and rural operators who still have a long way to go before they make the switch in power source. In that time comes a need to provide the latest and best quality HVAC models to keep their fleets running comfortably and smoothly.
“Not everyone is transitioning to electric straight away – just look at regional and school bus operators – even with the current projections
being made, they’re still a little while away from doing so,” he says.
“Considering the challenges present in today’s market with attracting and finding resources, at QTK we believe that having a more simplistic unit available will help assist with these issues as more operators look to control costs and use internal resources to support their vehicles.”
This latter point is a founding principle of the CF-1100A from QTK. Lowes is aware of the pressures currently being placed on operators all around the nation, from regulatory to financial. By offering an updated HVAC unit that requires less time and money spent to regulate temperatures inside buses and
Above:
The HVAC model was first displayed at last year’s National Bus and Coach Show
Images: QTK Group
coaches, the new unit takes away one key part of operating a bus fleet.
It’s in this spare time that is made free where Lowes knows the savings are for customers who opt to install the CF-1100A.
“The CF-1100A is a dependable and reliable product which can be easily diagnosed and supported in remote areas, well supported by a trusted supplier with a product and technical team that is ready to help,” he says.
“This trusted and simplistic platform that is used widely around the world is suitable for a wide range of operators who for reasons out of their control are delaying the transition to electric buses.”
Through collaboration with Thermo King globally, the QTK Group has reinjected its previously established and well-respected operating platform to its latest model. The reintroduction of ClimaAire provides enhanced reliability and self-diagnostic advantages that help operators to keep their fleets operating to their maximum at all times.
While this isn’t the first time the industry gets to check out the CF-1100A, as it was on full display at its shiny best in Brisbane late last year, Lowes is ready to promote QTK’s latest model to regional and school bus operators looking for the newest diesel air-conditioning unit on
“The CF-1100A not only offers enhanced efficiency and reliability but also addresses the unique challenges faced by regional consumers and suppliers,” Lowes says.
“Its cost-effective design ensures that users can maintain high performance without compromising their budgets, further solidifying QTK Group’s commitment to supporting the industry during this transitional period.”
Lowes and QTK is already noticing the model gaining traction with the nation’s various regional and school
all about efficiency for operators
Below: Service and uptime is key to QTK’s future focus
time for an innovative model to begin making life just a little bit easier for customers around the country.
“If this can be a dependable product that can help operators to diagnose and support themselves, then it’s incredibly worthwhile,” he says.
“We think it’s a viable and strong unit with a lot of benefits – it brings the proven reliability and dependability of the Thermo King brand and mixes with a new interactable nature that makes running HVAC units on buses simpler and more efficient.”
Giant steps
This summer, a new tinge of green will grace Australia’s long-distance bus network as global powerhouse FlixBus expands into the local market with its unique model
For all the long hours, blood, sweat and tears poured into it, sometimes the greatest asset that a business can have to succeed is fortunate timing. Being in the right place at the right time. Staying aware and pouncing on the perfect opportunity.
Nowadays, if you’ve travelled to the likes of Europe, the Americas or Asia, FlixBus is a well-known name. The green covered buses are a constant in tourist towns, completing overseas and long distance trips in holiday seasons. While the FlixBus name may now seem like a mainstay in the global tourism transport market, the German brand was only started 14 years ago, and its success all boils down to a great idea and some fortunate timing. The year was 2009 and Daniel Krauss, Jochen Engert and André Schwämmlein had a plan. The German government had announced
plans to liberalise markets, including the transport sector, resulting in the potential deregulation of the long-distance bus transport industry as part of a coalition agreement.
The idea was simple – the market, which had previously been closed, was set to open, so why not capitalise on the regulatory change and seize the opportunity?
“In 2013, the market opened in Germany, with Flix launching that year after being founded in 2011,” FlixBus senior managing director for Australia Yvan Lefranc-Morin told ABC
“It was an opportunity to grab part of a newly created market, and we decided to enter into it with an innovative model.”
The rest was history. FlixBus, after starting with three routes in Bavaria, Germany, took advantage of the opening of the bus market to competition and soon expanded
across Europe. Nowadays, it’s a global transport giant, delivering more than two billion Euros of yearly revenue and carrying more than 500 million passengers around the world since its inception.
Now, Flix has spotted a new opportunity in Australia’s bus and coach tourism market. From later this year, the familiar green of FlixBus is set to descend on the local industry to bring its unique model down under.
“Australia has been on the map for a long time as a place for international expansion,” Lefranc-Morin says.
“Then, COVID-19 came in 2020 and we had to revisit our expansion plans. The goal of coming to Australia has always been there, despite the vast size of the country and the unique challenges it provides, as it’s an appealing market.”
Having recently confirmed its launch in Australia, Flix has now
Above:
The distinctive Flix livery will be out in force in Australia this summer. Image: FlixBus
settled into its first market in the Oceania and South-East Asia region.
Lefranc-Morin says the FlixBus brand isn’t here to disturb the status quo and steal services from existing local operators. Instead, the global giant is bringing its own model that partners with both operators and suppliers throughout the country to encourage more passengers to take the bus around the nation.
“Flix is a tech-driven company and a business that is digital in its nature,” Lefranc-Morin says.
“Our idea was to concede that we haven’t been operating buses forever and don’t have huge experience in how to do it, but what we do have is an idea on how technology can be built to make long-distance bus services successful in this industry.
“We decided early on to partner with local bus operators in the regions that we work in to combine their deep knowledge on managing daily operations with our expertise in using smart and efficient technology to design networks, attract customers and provide a seamless booking experience.”
While in some markets, FlixBus is a bus operator, its predominant model is to handle the network planning, marketing, pricing and customer service on behalf of bus operators and take a commission from the ticket sales. This alleviates the pressure of marketing bus services for operators, giving them more time to focus on what they do best – manage high quality and safe long-distance runs.
“We know how to attract customers and handle booking systems in a competitive market,” Lefranc-Morin says.
“Our idea is to bring the best of both worlds together, mixing operators with our big data driven technology to attract customers in the best and most efficient way.”
If there’s any sceptics in Australia, they need only to look at Flix’s incredible expansion story around the world. After launching in Germany 12 years ago, FlixBus now operates in mainland Europe, the US, Brazil, Chile, Canada, India and Mexico. Following initial success in Germany, Flix was next seen in France and Italy in 2015,
before expanding to the US, courtesy of a base in Los Angeles, in 2018. A year later, the familiar green of Flix could be seen on the US’ East Coast courtesy of a partnership with Eastern Bus, before the South American push started in 2021.
Nowadays, out of the 81 million annual passengers it recorded in 2023, 55 million were in Europe while 14 million came from Turkey and 12 million passengers used FlixBus services in North America.
“We very quickly decided to launch into other European countries, seeing Europe as a unified network where we could invest in technology to gain efficiencies,” Lefranc-Morin says.
“Everywhere we’ve expanded to we’ve used the same model, resulting in our international expansion recently. Our most recent expansion before Australia was in India last year and Mexico this year.”
While this blanket model has seen success in all major jurisdictions Flix has expanded to, Lefranc-Morin and the Flix team are aware that Australia is a unique market. While the aim is to use its existing model to allow the local tourist transport sector to thrive, Lefranc-Morin is ready to learn from the industry and apply this knowledge to the FlixBus way.
“We know that the Australian market has existed for decades and is different from when we entered into a newly created sector in Germany, so we’ll adjust our method to this,” he says.
“As our first market in the Oceania and South-East Asia region, we are hoping this becomes our next big growth sector. We aim to grow this market and bring our technology to create more options for travel for both Australians and tourists.
“We’re already in 44 markets globally, so we know we can bring more options to the competitive landscape and make customers’ lives easier.”
Having now established his team and himself in Sydney, Lefranc-Morin has started talking with local operators on specific lines with the aim of establishing partnerships. From there, he will apply the Flix model to provide leading ticketing offers and marketing for services ahead of the
upcoming summer period.
“We now have good experience in designing a network, with Flix using our technology and data analysis to know where the demand will be and what our customers in Australia will expect from bus services,” he says.
“This is where we start – analysing our data on systems, then designing a network that’s as efficient as possible to meet our customers’ needs. Then we will see how we can build an effective network.
“We have been doing this globally and so far we have learnt a lot and are learning every day on how to optimise the network and see what we can do in Australia to replicate our success in other markets.”
Lefranc-Morin says FlixBus has already signed with its first bus operator partners in the local market, while he’s in “very good talks” with multiple other interested operators. He encourages all bus companies to reach out and understand how the Flix model works.
“The aim will be to launch our first lines in the Australian summer – there’s no precise dates yet but we’ll be ready for the high season in December,” he says.
“We are telling long-distance operators that a partnership with us means they don’t have to take care of everything, we can develop the costly technology and use our experience and knowledge to market their services and provide booking systems.”
Having carried more than 500 million passengers since its inception and reached more than 6,800 destinations to date, Lefranc-Morin is excited about what Australia has in store for the global powerhouse that is Flix.
“Our aim is to continue being number one, like what we are in most countries that we operate in,” he says.
“The first step is to launch in Australia with a proper network, determine how the offer is perceived and then expand around Australia.
“We want to bring another travel option to Australia through sustainable and user friendly solutions and grow Australian bus businesses –the more options that we can provide then the bigger the cake there is for the industry to enjoy.”
Power in safe hands
The push to electrify buses and coaches leads to a range of safety questions, and technology is stepping in with robust answers
In recent years, public transport has undergone significant changes in Australia and New Zealand. Diesel fleets are progressively seeing electric buses join the ranks, with new technology appearing on regional roads and in suburban streets. That change brings enthusiasm, but also the ongoing need to provide safe bus and coach services.
Behind the smooth ride and quiet cabins, electrical systems are working harder than ever, and every component must do its job without fail. The stakes are high: passenger safety, fleet uptime and operator confidence all depend on technology that can cope with the demands of heavy vehicles.
For Andrew Skaltsounis, managing director of E-T-A Electro Technical Applications Australia, the challenge has always been about designing protection that is both robust and
adaptable. He says the company’s HVR10 high-voltage relay, now being introduced into buses and coaches, is a vital step forward.
“The HVR10 combines the physical isolation of electromechanical contacts with the fast response of semiconductor technology,” Skaltsounis told ABC
“This hybrid approach means operators get the reliability of proven switching methods with the added safety of advanced electronics. It is built specifically for vehicles that cannot afford downtime or uncertainty.”
At its core, the HVR10 is a fist-sized unit that can repeatedly switch up to 300 amps at 900 volts, withstanding surges of up to 5,000 amps until protective fuses trip. For fleet operators, that offers them a critical component in efficiently running bus and coach services – confidence. In the event of overloads or faults,
Above: The proper inst allation of high-voltage relays is vital with the electrification of buses and coaches.
Image: FotoArtist/ stock.adobe.com
the system disconnects safely, preventing damage to onboard electronics and reducing the risk of fire.
“Electric buses run on powerful battery systems that store enormous energy. Managing that energy safely requires components that can handle worst-case scenarios, not just everyday loads,” Skaltsounis says.
“The HVR10 is tested to disconnect up to 2,000 amps at 1,000 volts, which is well beyond the demands of most operating conditions. That margin is what keeps drivers and passengers protected.”
The relay’s compact size also matters. Space is always at a premium in bus design, where battery packs, inverters and climate systems compete for room. By delivering high performance in a small form factor, the HVR10 simplifies integration for OEMs and aftermarket suppliers alike.
For Australasia, where many fleets
are trialling zero-emissions models alongside diesel buses and coaches, modular solutions are especially valuable. Operators want technology that can be easily integrated into mixed fleets without requiring major redesigns.
The HVR10 supports this flexibility, providing depots with a reliable way to manage high voltage across different vehicle platforms.
FastFacts:HVR10 highvoltagerelay
• Voltage rating: up to 1,000 V DC
• Continuous current: 300 A
• Short-term peak current: up to 5,000 A for 25 ms
• Rupture capacity: 2,000 A at 1,000 V
• Switching cycles: up to 50,000 low-arc operations
• Protection rating: IP54 (dust and splash resistant)
• Temperature range: –40 °C to +85 °C
• Size: compact, fist-sized design for tight installations
• Applications: buses, coaches, trucks, construction machinery, charging stations
Durability is another strength of the HVR10. The model is designed for up to 50,000 switching cycles with minimal wear thanks to its low-arc system. Skaltsounis says that longevity
lasts the life of the vehicle, we reduce interruptions and extend maintenance intervals. That is critical for fleets under pressure to deliver reliable service while transitioning to electric models.”
Beyond durability, the HVR10 features a self-monitoring function that alerts vehicle control systems to critical conditions. This feature supports predictive maintenance, providing operators with early warnings before minor issues escalate into costly failures. For bus depots already stretched by driver shortages and rising energy costs, the ability to plan servicing rather than react to faults is a genuine advantage.
In practical terms, this means fewer instances of unscheduled downtime. Skaltsounis says a metro-based operator running a fleet of 200 buses could save hundreds of service hours each year by relying on components that flag problems early. That saving is amplified when vehicles are part of government-backed zero-emissions bus trials, where every trip is closely monitored and performance data feeds into future procurement decisions.
The HVR10 is built to meet ISO 16750, IATF 16949 and ECE R10 standards, ensuring it fits seamlessly into global OEM supply chains. For Australasian operators, this compliance matters. It means components are not just designed
“The relay is rated from minus 40 to plus 85 degrees Celsius. That makes it as suitable for a city bus in Tasmania as for a school bus in Darwin. The same unit can cover both extremes without compromise.”
The cross-sector potential of the HVR10 also opens opportunities outside of just bus and coach technology. While the sector is the clearest beneficiary of E-T-A’s latest technology, the same system can also be applied to trucks, construction equipment and charging infrastructure.
Shared solutions across industries can help suppliers scale production and reduce costs for operators.
For policy-makers, this is equally significant. As Australia and New Zealand both commit to reducing transport emissions, shared technologies across multiple vehicle types can accelerate adoption and reduce the total cost of electrification.
While zero-emissions bus programs continue to unfold around Australia, safety technology will continue to remain at the forefront of the industry’s focus. Components like E-T-A’s HVR10 may never be visible to passengers, but Skaltsounis says they’ll fill operators with the confidence needed to make the zero-emissions transition a success.
“Electrification is about more than
United for safety
QBIC’s
Jason O’Dwyer details the new path forward agreed upon by the association and Queensland ministers, unions and police to protect the state’s bus drivers
In the wake of a disturbing rise in assaults on Queensland bus drivers – from verbal abuse to serious physical attacks – the state’s bus industry has taken a decisive step forward. At the recent Ministerial Roundtable on Safety for Queensland bus drivers, convened by the Minister for Transport and Main Roads, Brent Mickelberg, industry representatives, unions, Queensland Police and Translink officials came together with one goal: to make our public transport network safer for drivers and passengers alike.
As the peak body representing private bus and coach operators in Queensland, QBIC entered the discussion with a clear message – the safety of drivers is not negotiable, and the solutions must be multi-layered, collaborative and grounded in real-world operational realities.
Encouragingly, the roundtable revealed that across the spectrum –operators, unions, police representatives and government officials – there was broad agreement on the possible actions we can take. That alignment is rare in complex policy debates and sends a powerful signal.
Understandingtheproblem
The data and lived experiences of drivers tell a confronting story. Incidents of driver assault are not confined to one type of service or one suburb; they occur across urban, regional and school networks. The triggers vary – from fare disputes and service delays to the impact of drugs, alcohol or untreated mental health conditions.
Our submission to the roundtable emphasised a critical insight: in almost every assault, a heightened emotional state is present in at least one party –sometimes both. Whether caused by overcrowding, late running services, financial stress, cultural barriers or just
a bad day, these emotional triggers can quickly escalate into aggression. Drivers themselves face increasing pressures. Modern drivers are not only responsible for safe vehicle operation but also act as customer service officers, peacekeepers, journey planners and even first responders in emergencies.
Asharedvision
The roundtable discussions included QBIC’s proposed Solutions Matrix, which outlines short, medium and long-term measures spanning design, infrastructure, workplace culture, legislation, public awareness and government collaboration.
Short-term actions agreed in principle included establishing a Ministerial Safety Action Committee, reviewing and improving timetables, improving driver training for psychosocial hazards and conflict de-escalation and enhancing penalties for those who assault drivers in the performance of their duties.
Medium-term measures focused on co-designing safety solutions and adopting industry guidelines like driver barriers, upgrading layover, meal and holding facilities for drivers and deploying additional targeted and data driven police, senior network officers and security staff on routes and at interchanges.
Long-term strategies included school and community education programs and media campaigns on respectful behaviour on public transport, built environmental changes to deter anti-social behaviour and working towards the creation of an Australian Design Rule for driver barriers.
This layered approach recognises there is no single fix – real change will require coordinated action across policy, infrastructure, enforcement and education.
Thedriverbarrierdebate
One of the most discussed topics was driver barriers. Evidence shows they can significantly reduce physical assaults, particularly if drivers remain seated behind them during high-risk interactions. However, barriers are not a universal solution and must be carefully designed.
The consensus was that barriers have a role to play, but they should be part of a broader package of measures – not a stand-alone fix. Importantly, their implementation must avoid unintended consequences for vulnerable passengers.
Acalltoaction
The discussions in the roundtable have given the industry a rare commodity: alignment. When unions, operators, police and government officers agree on the broad strokes of a solution, we must act decisively.
The safety of our bus drivers –and by extension, the safety of the travelling public – is not a matter that can be deferred to the next budget cycle or the next round of contract negotiations.
As executive director of QBIC, I am encouraged by the shared commitment shown in the roundtable. But the real measure of success will be in the actions taken from here. The minister and TMR now have the opportunity and the responsibility to take the agreed ideas and shape them into a practical, well-funded and timely response.
Our message is clear: the industry stands ready to work with government to implement these solutions. Let’s move from words to action and ensure Queensland’s bus drivers can do their jobs without fear, supported by a system that prioritises their safety as much as their service to the community.
Wagga Wagga goes contactless
Contactless ticketing is now live on Wagga Wagga buses, giving passengers tap-and-go options alongside cash payments for easier travel
Wagga Wagga passengers are now boarding buses with a simple tap, thanks to the rollout of contactless ticketing across the city’s fleet. Twenty local buses operated by Busabout Wagga have been equipped with the new system, marking a significant step in enhancing the convenience of regional public transport.
The program is part of the New South Wales government’s plan to expand tap-and-go ticketing beyond metropolitan Sydney and bring modern payment systems to more than 400 rural and regional bus services. Following successful trials in Bathurst and Dubbo, contactless ticketing in Wagga Wagga is the latest upgrade designed to strengthen regional networks.
NSW roads and regional transport minister Jenny Aitchison says the new technology reflects a commitment to improving regional transport.
“Contactless payment technology is becoming increasingly popular with the community for a range of transactions, but until now the option of tap-and-go payments on buses has mostly been confined to Greater Sydney,” Aitchison says.
“The NSW government’s Contactless Ticketing Program will make public transport in the regions more convenient and accessible, with the choice of a more seamless, secure and reliable payment experience, in addition to cash.
“Having the one contactless payment system across the state’s entire regional and rural bus network, with 35 operators, has a lot of complexities, which is why this solution tailored specifically for regional and rural NSW is such a win.”
For Wagga Wagga passengers, the change is simple but significant. Rather than relying solely on cash, customers can now pay using a debit or credit card, or through smartphones and smartwatches. Cash payments will remain available, ensuring no passengers are left behind. The technology will not apply to school services or NSW TrainLink long-distance coaches, as ticketing systems are already in place.
Independent member for Wagga Wagga Dr Joe McGirr says the upgrade represents a major step forward for the region.
“This is a fantastic step forward
for Wagga Wagga and regional NSW. Making bus travel easier and more convenient with tap-and-go payments, along with the option to pay by cash, means more people can access public transport quickly and safely. It’s great to see our community benefit from this new technology,” McGirr says.
Local operator Busabout Wagga has played a crucial role in delivering the program locally, with the company’s drivers and passengers already noticing smoother boardings and more efficient operations.
“Installing contactless payment technology on our buses means a smoother, faster boarding experience for our passengers. It’s a win for both customers and operators and is an exciting milestone for our city and for regional NSW,” Busabout Wagga director Joe Calabro says.
“Contactless ticketing is a welcome step forward that makes daily travel easier and more reliable for everyone.
“Busabout is proud to be at the forefront of this initiative and to play our part in delivering safer, more efficient and more reliable transport options for the Wagga community.”
2025 industry events
Be sure not to miss out on an opportunity to attend these fantastic in-person events
SEPTEMBER
SEPTEMBER 11
QBIC Regional Forum – Gold Coast
SEPTEMBER 15-17
BCA Conference
OCTOBER
OCTOBER 1-2
BusNSW Member Conference
OCTOBER 4–9
Busworld Europe
OCTOBER 22
PTAANZ Annual Conference and Gala Dinner – Brisbane
OCTOBER 29-31
BIC National Conference – Perth
NOVEMBER
NOVEMBER 14–15
QBIC Regional and Partner Forum – Cairns
NOVEMBER 21
BusNSW Platinum and Gold Partners Luncheon
NOVEMBER 22
QBIC Christmas Function
DECEMBER
DECEMBER 1
BusNSW Xmas Function
Send in your best bus or coach photos to feature in next month’s magazine.
WINNER
Jailbreak
Daniel Anghiel’s submission on behalf of a Ventura driver at a popular old Melbourne prison is a clear winner for September
At ABC, we love how creative the industry gets when it comes to submitting photos for Best Bus each month.
Whether it be a sunset snap, a wintery wonder or a mountainous marvel, bus and coach enthusiasts all over Australasia have captured our imagination over the years as part of the monthly competition.
The September winner of Best Bus has taken us to new heights, with a Ventura driver, through Daniel Anghiel, showcasing a classy-looking Ventura in front of a popular Melbourne attraction.
For nearly 150 years, Pentridge Prison in Coburg, Victoria was a prominent prison that eventually became the main remand and reception prison in Melbourne. Having originally been founded
in 1851 to relieve overcrowding at the well-known Melbourne Gaol, it evolved into a vast complex that included separate facilities for women and men.
Throughout its time before closing in 1997, Pentridge housed notorious criminals. Since its closure, it has been redeveloped into a mixed-use residential and commercial precinct that even includes a lovely cinema, but the old façade remains.
The September winner of Best Bus saw Daniel Anghiel send us this photo from Ventura driver Adrian, who parked up out the front of the historic old gates to the prison.
The Yutong C12 was on full display with the eye-catching Ventura wrap out the front, making for a perfect winner that took ABC ’s Best Bus to a new location to relive some classic Australian history.
Above: Courtesy of Daniel Anghiel, Adrian’s shot of their ride out the front of Melbourne’s Pentridge Prison took out top spot in September
In terms of other strong entries, some finalists included Damian Shiambi, who struck once again with a beautiful snow special featuring another attention-grabbing wrap from Ventura. The flavour of the month was all Ventura, as driver Shuo Tang flicked through a photo of their bus in front of Melbourne’s Arthurs Seat on a windy day where the cable cars weren’t operating.
As the winner of Best Bus August, Adrian has received a free 12-month subscription to ABC Magazine, while the winning photo is also being shown off as ABC ’s Facebook cover photo for the whole of the month.
Don’t forget to send through your Best Bus photos for October and throughout 2025 via email and keep an eye on our Facebook page for more details!
Above: Robert Shelton sent through this lovely looking Potter Travel coach in front of an intriguing icon
Right: It was all about Ventura in September as Shuo Tang sent through this photo from down at Arthurs Seat in Melbourne
Right: Damian Shiambi struck again with this wonder ful photo of a Ventura in the snow
Left: Shayla Thorpe captured golden hour at Ventura’s Dandenong depot
Below: Bryce Pender was back again with this old historical beauty
Back in business
After July’s deliveries dip, the latest data from August suggests the market is back to its record-breaking ways
The industry could’ve been excused for thinking the lofty bus and coach deliveries seen throughout this year to date was finally dropping to usual levels in July. However, the August data, sponsored by Kempower, suggests the market is well and truly back to its booming levels after a stellar month that saw 128 deliveries.
There was more challenge to Volvo’s throne in the chassis market, but not from the second placed supplier in recent months. While Volvo still took home the crown with 35 deliveries in August, Scania rose to second and nearly snatched the crown in August with 31 units delivered. Yutong, with its 13 heavy bus and six light bus deliveries, had to resort to third spot. It still finished comfortably ahead of the fourth placed Custom Denning (12), while I-Bus (nine light bus deliveries) continued to sit strongly in the market. MAN (seven) wasn’t far behind, while King Long (four), Nexport, BLK and Challenger all recorded the three deliveries ahead of BCI (two).
romped to another win with 38 August deliveries. Yutong was able to secure second place with 18 deliveries for the month (12 heavy, six light bus) ahead of Irizar (15) and Custom Denning (12). I-Bus had the nine deliveries while BLK registered eight, with Scania Higer (six) the next best. In the run home, BCI delivered five units, King Long the four and Nexport and Challenger both had three, while the final eight deliveries were shared across six brands. It should come as no surprise that the seating market was all McConnell’s, as the perennial sector leader romped to an August win with 55 deliveries. It enjoyed a larger spoil of the market last month and more than doubled the next best Sege with 25 deliveries. StyleRide continued to improve its consistent deliveries with the 18 units, while Yutong had the 11. On the single digit side, APM had the nine deliveries and Fainsa the six, with King Long (four) bringing it home.
For the first time in recent memory, the air-conditioning market saw a tie, as Coachair and Hispacold couldn’t be split with 26 units
its 19 deliveries, with Spheros (16) and Songz (14) both turning up the pressure in a competitive market. Thermo King and Konvekta (seven apiece) couldn’t be separated, while Valeo (six) finished ahead of King Long (four), MCC (two) and Denso (one).
A similarly close finish was seen in the state-based battle, with NSW staying ahead to take out top honours with 37 deliveries. Queensland was a close second with 33 units, while Victoria shot up to third with 32. South Australia remained consistent with the 12 units, while WA (eight) kept ahead of the ACT (five) and Tasmania’s sole delivery.
Zero-emissions buses continued to slowly climb in the power split, recording 21 out of the 132 deliveries. In that space, Custom Denning (12) took top honours ahead of Yutong with six. On the diesel side, Volvo (35) dominated the 95 diesel deliveries, with Scania adding 12 diesel hybrid models on top of its 19 diesel deliveries in an impressive month.
Turn overleaf for comprehensive bus and coach delivery information for August. Please note all data is
Volgren romped to another win with 38 August deliveries. Yutong was able to secure second place with 18 deliveries for the month (12 heavy, six light bus) ahead of Irizar (15) and Custom Denning with 12 deliveries.
It should come as no surprise that the seating market was all McConnell’s, as the perennial sector leader romped to an August win with 55 deliveries. It enjoyed a larger spoil of the market last month and more than doubled the next best Sege with 25 deliveries.
There was more challenge to Volvo’s throne, but not from the second placed supplier in recent months. While Volvo still took home the crown with 35 deliveries, Scania rose to second and nearly snatched the crown in August with 31 units delivered. Yutong had the 13 heavy bus and six light bus deliveries Yutong, with its 13 heavy bus and six light bus deliveries, had to resort to third spot.
BCIGoWestToursWA1BCIFleetmasterBCIME18t315REuro6
BCIWirlu-MurraEnterprisesWA1BCIFleetmasterBCIME18t315REuro6 BLKPrivateNSW2BLKPresident10BLKME15t300REuro5
BLKPrivateTAS1BLKPresident10BLKME15t300REuro5
ChallengerSouthsideBusandCoachNSW1ChallengerCallibarChallengerMD8.5t168FEuro5 ChallengerSouthsideBusandCoachNSW1ChallengerCallibarChallengerMD7.99t168FEuro5 ChallengerYarallaBusesQLD1ChallengerV12ChallengerMD18t360REuro6 CustomDenningGovernmentNSW12CustomDenningCustomDenningME18t400L:RZero I-BusCardwellQLD1IsuzuI-BusAustralasiaME8.7t190FEuro5
I-BusQ-FleetSchoolBusQLD1IsuzuI-BusAustralasiaME8.7t190FEuro5 I-BusQ-FleetSchoolBusQLD1IsuzuI-BusAustralasiaME8.7t190FEuro5 I-BusPrivateQLD1IsuzuI-BusAustralasiaME8.7t190FEuro5 I-BusCDCBuslineNSW1IsuzuI-BusAustralasiaME8.7t190FEuro5
I-BusPrivateQLD1IsuzuI-BusAustralasiaME8.7t190FEuro5 I-BusPrivateQLD1IsuzuI-BusAustralasiaME8.7t190FEuro5 I-BusPrivateQLD1IsuzuI-BusAustralasiaME8.7t190FEuro5
I-BusPrivateVIC1IsuzuI-BusAustralasiaME8.7t190FEuro5
KingLongPrivateQLD1KingLongKingLongME18t400REuro6
KingLongPrivateQLD1KingLongKingLongME18t360REuro5
KingLongPrivateQLD1KingLongKingLongME18t360REuro5
KingLongPrivateQLD1KingLongKingLongME18t360REuro5 MANTransitAustralia–BundabergQLD1MANLE.19.330.RC2GlobalBusVenturesME19.5t330REuro6 MANMackayTransitCoachesQLD3MANIC.19.330.RR8BLKAutoME18.5t330REuro6 MANTransitAustralia–BundabergQLD1MANIC.19.330.RR8BLKAutoME18.5t330REuro6 MANCoomaCoachesNSW1MANCO.26.510.RR4BLKAutoME22t510REuro6 MANKineticSpecialisedResourcesQLD1MANIC.19.360.RR8IrizarME19.5t360REuro6 NexportNorthSydneyBusChartersNSW3NexportNexportME18tN/ARZero ScaniaBrightonCoachNSW2ScaniaTHDK370CB4x2NB12.3CL3ScaniaHigerME19.5t370REuro6 ScaniaCDCVictoriaVIC1ScaniaTHDK360CB4x2NB12.3CL3ScaniaHigerME19.5t360REuro6 ScaniaCDCVictoriaVIC1ScaniaTHDK370CB4x2NB12.3CL3ScaniaHigerME19.5t370REuro6 ScaniaDTEISA1ScaniaK320HB4x2LBVolgrenME20.2t320REuro6 ScaniaDriverGroupAustraliaVIC1ScaniaHLDK320CB4x2NB12.3CL3ScaniaHigerME19.5t320REuro6 ScaniaDriverGroupAustraliaVIC1ScaniaHLDK320CB4x2NB12.3CL3ScaniaHigerME19.5t320REuro6 ScaniaDTEISA2ScaniaK320HB4x2LBVolgrenME20.2t320REuro6 ScaniaDTEISA4ScaniaK320HB4x2LBVolgrenME19.5t320REuro6 ScaniaDTEISA5ScaniaK320HB4x2LBVolgrenME20.2t320REuro6 ScaniaDysonGroupVIC2ScaniaK370CB4x2NBIrizarME19.5t370REuro6 ScaniaDysonGroupVIC3ScaniaK320CB4x2NBIrizarME19.5t320REuro6 ScaniaFortescueWA2ScaniaK320CB4x2NBIrizarME19.5t320REuro6 ScaniaFortescueWA1ScaniaK320CB4x2NBIrizarME19.5t320REuro6 ScaniaSGFleetAustraliaNSW1ScaniaK410CB6x2NBExpressCoachesME26.5t410REuro6 ScaniaWangarattaCoachlinesVIC1ScaniaK500CB6x2*4NICoachConceptsME26.5t500REuro6 ScaniaWarrenBusServiceWA1ScaniaK320CB4x2NBExpressCoachesME20.5t320REuro6 ScaniaWarrnamboolBus&MotorCo.VIC1ScaniaK320CB4x2NBCoachDesignME20.5t320REuro6 ScaniaWhitsundayTransitQLD1ScaniaK320CB4x2LBVolgrenME19.5t320REuro6 VolvoCDCVICVIC5VolvoB8RLEVolgrenME19t330REuro5 VolvoPortStephensCoachesNSW2VolvoB8RLEVolgrenME19t320REuro6 VolvoPortStephensCoachesNSW1VolvoB13RCoachDesignME26t500REuro6 VolvoCHATCoachesNSW1VolvoB13RIrizarME26t500REuro6 VolvoPictonBuslinesNSW1VolvoB8RVolgrenME19t320REuro6 VolvoRegOsbornNSW1VolvoB8RVolgrenME19t320REuro6 VolvoSeapostNSW1VolvoB8RLEVolgrenME19t320REuro6 VolvoReidBusesNSW1VolvoB8RVolgrenME19t320REuro6 VolvoSwanhillBusLinesVIC3VolvoB8RBCIME19t350REuro6 VolvoCDCVIC5VolvoB8RLEVolgrenME19t320REuro5 VolvoVenturaBusLinesVIC2VolvoB13RIrizarME26.5t500REuro6 VolvoColesCoachesVIC1VolvoB8RIrizarME19t350REuro6 VolvoMunnsBusServiceWA1VolvoB8RMarcopoloME19t350REuro6 VolvoThompsonBusServicesQLD5VolvoB8RLEVolgrenME19t320REuro6 VolvoVictoryCollegeQLD1VolvoB8RIrizarME19t350REuro6 VolvoBusQueensland-WestsideBusCoQLD2VolvoB8RLEVolgrenME19t320REuro6 VolvoQuiniqueIndustriesQLD1VolvoB8RIrizarME19t350REuro6 VolvoATE-PathTransitWA1VolvoB8RVolgrenME19t320REuro6 YutongYutongStockVIC1YutongE12VolgrenMEN/A350N/AZero YutongPrivateOperatorQLD2YutongC12YutongME18t340FEuro6 YutongPrivateOperatorQLD2YutongC12YutongME18t340FEuro6 YutongPrivateOperatorQLD1YutongD7YutongME8t190FEuro6 YutongPrivateOperatorVIC2YutongC12YutongME18t340FEuro6 YutongPrivateOperatorVIC1YutongC12YutongME18t340FEuro6 YutongPrivateOperatorNSW2YutongD7YutongME8t190FEuro6 YutongPrivateOperatorNSW3YutongD7YutongME8t190FEuro6 YutongGovernmentACT5YutongE12YutongME18t350N/AN/A
AZF212.3MCC–55––X–––SegeBCIYN AZF212.3MCC–55––X–––SegeBCIYN AAllison210Spheros–41––X–––FainsaBLKYN/A AAllison210Spheros–41––X–––FainsaBLKYN/A AAllison27.75Songz–29––X––XFainsaChallengerYN/A AAllison27.75Songz–29––X––XFainsaChallengerYN/A AAllison212.5ThermoKing–57––––X–FainsaChallengerYN/A N/AN/A212Spheros––41––X––McConnellVenturaNY ASIsuzu28.3Songz32–––––X–APMSASDoorsYN ASIsuzu28.3Songz32–––––X–APMSASDoorsYN ASIsuzu28.3Songz32–––––X–APMSASDoorsYN ASIsuzu28.3Songz32–––––X–APMSASDoorsYN ASIsuzu28.3Songz32–––––X–APMSASDoorsYN ASIsuzu28.3Songz32–––––X–APMSASDoorsYN ASIsuzu28.3Songz32–––––X–APMSASDoorsYN ASIsuzu28.3Songz32–––––X–APMSASDoorsYN ASIsuzu28.3Songz32–––––X–APMSASDoorsYN AZF212KingLong58–––X–––KingLongKingLongYN AZF212KingLong–54––X–––KingLongKingLongYN AZF212KingLong–54––X–––KingLongKingLongYN AZF212KingLong–54––X–––KingLongKingLongYN AZF212.5Valeo––46––X––McConnellVenturaNN AZF212.36Valeo57–––––X–SegeBLKYN AZF212.36Valeo57–––––X–SegeBLKYN ATipmatic213.94Valeo–53––X–––SegeBLKYY AZF212.3Hispacold–48––X–––SegeMasatsYN AN/A212.5Songz54–––X–––StyleRideGTKYN OpticruiseScania212.3Konvekta–54––––X–McConnellN/AYN AZF212.5Konvekta58–––––X–McConnellN/ANN AZF212.5Konvekta58–––––X–McConnellN/ANN OpticruiseScania211.9Hispacold––43––X––McConnellN/ANN AZF212.3Konvekta57–––––X–McConnellN/ANN AZF212.3Konvekta58–––––X–McConnellN/ANN OpticruiseScania211.9Hispacold––43––X––McConnellN/ANN OpticruiseScania211.9Hispacold––43––X––McConnellN/ANN OpticruiseScania211.9Hispacold––43––X––McConnellN/ANN OpticruiseScania212.5Hispacold57–––––X–SegeN/AYY AZF213Hispacold57–––––X–SegeN/AYN AZF212.5Hispacold–53––––X–SegeN/AYN AZF212.5Konvekta–53––––X–SegeN/AYN OpticruiseScania312.5Coachair–57–X––––McConnellN/AYN OpticruiseScania313.5ThermoKing–50–X––––StyleRideN/AYY AZF212.5Coachair43–––––X–StyleRideN/AYN AZF212.5ThermoKing57–––––X–McConnellN/AYN AZF212.5ThermoKing––43––X––McConnellN/ANN AZF210-12.9Coachair––41––X––McConnellSMCNY AZF212.5Coachair––44––X––McConnellSMCNY ASVolvo313.5Coachair–54–X––––McConnellSMCYY ASVolvo313.5Hispacold–54–X––––SegeIrizarYY AZF212.5Coachair57–––––X–McConnellSMCYN AZF212.5Coachair57–––––X–StyleRideSMCYN AZF212.5Denso––44––X––McConnellSMCNY AZF212.5ThermoKing57–––––X–McConnellSMCYN AZF210-12.9Coachair57–––––X–SegeBCIYN AZF210-12.9Coachair––41––X––McConnellVenturaNY ASVolvo313-14.9Hispacold–56–X––––SegeIrizarYY AZF210-12.9Hispacold41–––––X–SegeIrizarYN AZF212.3Spheros57–––––X–McConnellMarcopoloYN AZF210-12.9Coachair––43––X––StyleRideVenturaNY AZF210-12.9Hispacold57–––––X–SegeIrizarYN AZF210-12.9ThermoKing––43––X––McConnellSMCNY AZF210-12.9Hispacold57–––––X–SegeIrizarYN AZF210-12.9Coachair57–––––X–McConnellSMCYN N/AN/A212.5Cling-Yutong––43––X––McConnellVenturaN/AY AAllison212.3Cling-Yutong–53––X–––YutongYutongYN AAllison212.3Cling-Yutong57–––––X–YutongYutongYN AAllison27.7Cling-Yutong27–––X–––YutongYutongYN AAllison212.3Cling-Yutong57–––––X–YutongYutongYN AAllison212.3Cling-Yutong–53––––X–YutongYutongYN AAllison27.7Cling-Yutong40–––––X–StyleRideYutongYN AAllison27.7Cling-Yutong27–––––X–YutongYutongYN N/AN/A212.4Cling-Yutong––44––X––StyleRideYutongN/AY
All about
In late July, South Australia announced its very first Sensory Bus, with the specially designed old Adelaide Metro bus leading accessible transport
Oof Australasia’s bus and coach industry is its focus on accessibility. Allowing more and more people to catch bus transport has been a key part of the planning that suppliers and operators put into their products and services.
In South Australia, the announcement of the new Sensory Bus served as another example of the industry going above and beyond to make buses inclusive.
In late July, the custom-designed bus was announced to provide Autistic and autism communities a dedicated space to attend major events, including the Adelaide 500, Tour Down Under and Multicultural Festival. The concept for the bus was first raised by Annie Hull when she shared her experiences with her Autistic son Eli to the state’s minister for autism.
Before long, Kelsian and Torrens Transit was on board to make the concept a reality, providing a critical bridge to barriers that Autistic people may face when attending loud, bright or crowded events due to differences in sensory processing.
“Eli was born vision impaired and has an intellectual disability, ADHD and autism. Accessing the community
safety risks and sensory overwhelm,” Annie says.
“Knowing that there is a safe place for Eli to retreat to with us and his support team means that our community becomes more accessible to Eli and there is more possibility for him to experience his world.
“Our idea to create a mobile sensory unit brings members of the community with additional sensory needs and their families into the associated event without needing to separate themselves entirely to seek a space to self-regulate.
“The bus promotes inclusive participation, encourages community awareness and acceptance of neurodiverse needs and can be brought to different events or locations, increasing accessibility for children, adults and families.”
The restored and specially repurposed old Adelaide Metro bus is set to travel to up to 15 government and community events each year, with the Office for Autism working with the SA Tourism Commission to determine locations. Kelsian Group is proudly backing the project and providing support through driver training, storage and bus maintenance.
Autism SA is the operator of the bus
