EXPO EXPRESS A Salute to our Industry’s Comeback Special Edition | February, 2022 Look inside for the Expocompleteschedule
Safe Following Distance – This video explains how commercial drivers can help prevent rear-end collisions by establishing and maintaining a safe following distance.
View our driver safety videos at:
To meet the challenges of the pandemic, U.S. motorcoach companies rapidly reinvented themselves, and found new ways to thrive. As their needs evolved, our mission remained clearly focused on helping as many operators as possible, whether through our vehicle suspension program, financial relief hotline, or providing critical information and advice to the industry at large. We’re filled with pride to be a part of an industry that has overcome such incredible hurdles, and is, undoubtedly, more resilient, and stronger than ever before.
Turning Safely – This video provides some useful and practical safety tips to help commercial drivers avoid accidents while turning.
Customer Care and Passenger Safety – This video provides both rookie and veteran drivers with some valuable suggestions for moving peo ple safely and reliably while delivering a personal and positive experience.
Regardless of the number of vehicles in your operation, it’s critical that you provide ongoing driver training to help keep your drivers on the road and in compliance. Our latest animated vid eos are the perfect tools to assist you in refreshing drivers on what they’ve previously learned, and pinpointing shortfalls where unsafe habits may have slipped back in.
www.lancerinsurance.com/safety-stopwww.lancerinsurance.comDriverTrainingMadeEasy
Proudly Salutes THE MOTORCOACH INDUSTRY
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We are proud to be the official publication of the 2022 UMA Motorcoach EXPO. This annual event is when the industry comes together to reconnect, learn, and discover new products and services. These pages are filled with insights and information that will help you get the most from your experience at EXPO.
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EXPO Express is about the people, the importance, and the technologies of the bus and motorcoach industry in North America. We are also showcasing the way motorcoaches are making a difference across North America, fueled by cleaner diesel and enhanced by the newest technologies for safety, hygiene, and fuel efficiency.
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editor’s note
EXPO EXPRESSSpecialEdition|February,2022 A Salute to our industry’s comeback
Julianne Ryder
A SALUTE TO OUR ESSENTIALINDUSTRY’SWORKERS
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EXPO EXPRESS | 2022 3
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There’s a saying about how you see the true colors of people during the worst of times. We have seen that with our essential workers, who have stepped up to the challenges of the pandemic. Our drivers, the face of this industry, have taken care of the passengers, while mechanics have worked behind the scenes to keep the wheels rolling safely. We have been telling their stories in Bus & Motorcoach News with our popular “From the Driver’s Seat” and “Under the Bus” features. In this keepsake issue, we are highlighting the best of our industry: its people
4 EXPO EXPRESS | 2022 TRIBUTE MECHANICSDRIVERSMOTORCOACHTO& CONTENTS FEB. 2022 6 211214 UMA ASKANDINSIGHTS,OEMCHAMPIONSCOMPETITIONMAINTENANCEQ&A:TRENDSWHATTOABOUT!2022UMAMOTORCOACHEXPOSCHEDULE 23 13 EXPO 2023 JANUARY 12-16, 2023 MOTORCOACH ORLANDO DELIVERING THE ULTIMATE PASSENGER EXPERIENCE LOOKING AFTER CUSTOMERS REQUIRES ‘A LOT OF CREATIVITY’ EVOLVING TO MEET THE CUSTOMER NEEDS KEEP BUSES ROLLING DURING THE TIRE SHORTAGE NEW FINANCING OPTION ENTERS THE MARKET LANCER LUXURYBUILDINGAREBOUNDINGCOMMITMENTFORTIFIESTOINDUSTRYREQUIRESFLEXIBLEAPPROACHANAFFORDABLERIDE24252622
prevostcar.com STRONG ENOUGH TO CARRY AN INDUSTRY. FLEXIBLE SUPPORT Prevost Uptime® Service Agreements Prevost Clean+Care Business Solutions Prevost ComprehensiveWarrantySupport Prevost Service Centers Strategically placed throughout the US and Canada 1 #1 service network in the industry 60 ServiceMobile Trucks 175 Nearly Service175Providers We everyservicebusbrand
PIROSKA “PORTIA” KEMENCZEI Pacific GardenCoachwaysGrove,California
WHAT’S YOUR CAREER HIGHLIGHT?
WHAT’S THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS?
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WHAT’S THE BEST PART OF YOUR CAREER?
DENNIS FARNUM VIP Tour & Charter Co. Portland, Maine
I love driving all sorts of passen gers. One day, I may be driving the White House Press Corp with exciting destinations. The next day, I may drive Girl Scouts singing all the way to camp. In 2010, I was honored to drive Olympians to their events in Vancouver, Canada. We had fun working, but also exploring the venues. It’s always fun to drive seniors on their fun day trips. Most of these kinds of trips invite me to go along on their tours of fascinating places, and if I can find a safe place to park, I’m going!
I feel like I am a part of our customers’ journey, helping them have an experience that could last for a lifetime. Making mem ories with them and keeping in contact with a few of them via email tells me I’m doing some thing good in life. That fills up my heart and soul as well. I truly, truly can say I have a job that I love. Every day is different. Ev ery day is a new experience. I’m living the best life I ever could imagine for myself, that a little girl in Hungary wouldn’t dare to imagine. I am so thankful and feel so blessed.
Their role requires a lot of focus and attention to detail, so they can handle stressful situations on the road and remain calm un der pressure. Because drivers have no control over those around them while on the road, they always have to be ready for anything. This could include bad weather conditions or traffic backups. Driv ers pride themselves on being ready to respond to an emergency, whether it’s a mechanical issue or a passenger’s health concern. We surveyed some of the industry’s best to find out why they love their profession. Here are their stories:
WHAT IS YOUR CAREER HIGHLIGHT?
My goal is to learn something new every day to make myself a better driver and a better person. Being a motorcoach operator has been one of the most excit ing — and at the same time the most challenging — occupations in my life. Being behind the wheel of these great big beauti ful machines is a rush, and the extra benefits of traveling and exploring the world while get ting to meet people from around the world and taking them on what could be their trip of a lifetime — what could be better than that?
SANDY MARTINEZ Transportation Charter Services (TCS)
Drivers also have to be professional entertainers. They want their guests to have fun during their trip, creating not only a safe atmo sphere, but a memorable one, too. When they step on that bus, drivers are on stage. It’s their time to shine. And each driver has their own style.
Motorcoach drivers have always been the face of the industry. They not only make sure passengers arrive safely to their destinations, but they make those onboard feel comfortable and welcome from the moment they step into the coach.
I have had the honor of trans porting wreaths for Wreaths Across America to Arlington National Cemetery for the past several years. Started by Worces ter in 1992, it is now up to 3.1 million wreaths nationwide and worldwide. I have formed many rewarding friendships with many dear people; some days, it feels like a family reunion. It’s such an honor to be able to pay respects to fallen heroes. You get an unexplained feeling of rever ence and sacredness as you enter those grounds. I feel so honored and blessed to be able to feel a part of this great organization, which I hold in high regard.
Orange, California
A TRIBUTE TO DRIVERSMOTORCOACH BY SHANDRA MARTINEZ
›››
DONNA HERNANDEZ Pacific GardenCoachwaysGrove,California
Jointhedigitalrevolutioninmobility. TakeyourCoachonaConnectedJourney NextStop:UMAEXPO2022-Booth837
Icomeraisacceleratingthedigitaltransition,propelledbythefastest, mostreliablewirelessconnectivityavailabletoamovingvehicle.
SupportinganentireecosystemofInternet-baseddigitalsystemsfrom Wi-Fitopassengerentertainment,Icomeraisrestoringconfidencefrom origintodestination,makingeveryridetime-efficientforthe passenger,andcost-effectivefortheoperator.
EXPO EXPRESS | 2022 7
WHAT’S THE STRANGEST OR MOST BIZARRE GROUP YOU’VE DRIVEN?
The best compliment is when a group leader says, “I’m going to request you for our next trip.” That’s always a good feeling.
KEITH BALLINGER Timi’s Moweaqua,Tours Illinois
WHAT’S YOUR BEST ADVICE FOR A NEWBIE?
JOSH HENLEY Lewis Coaches New Orleans
A comic book convention was in town. I was driving a shuttle from local hotels to the con vention center. It was also Hal loween weekend. I just blinked twice, shook my head and kept driving.
This passenger says, “Boy, you’re a good driver. You are so smooth. I was a driver.” I go, “Oh, I bet you were smooth, too.” He says, “Not like you.” I would rather have a compliment like that than a $5 tip any day. That was my best memory.
8 EXPO EXPRESS | 2022
WHY ARE YOU A MOTORCOACH DRIVER?
WHAT’S YOUR FUNNIEST TRAVEL STORY?
I have always had a love for driv ing. My mom always said it is in my blood because my daddy was a truck driver. When I had my son 23 years ago, child care was too expensive where I lived, and I applied to become a school bus driver because I could take him along. It worked out great, and things just grew from that point.
ANDY ANDERSON Cardinal Columbus,TransportationOhio
CHARLES MOERLAND Compass Coach Cedar Springs, Michigan
WHAT’S THE RECEIVED?COMPLIMENTBESTYOU’VE
I was working in Houston and found out I had a trip going out of Shreveport, Louisiana. My boss said, “You might as well just go ahead and turn in your keys now because, once you get to Shreveport, you are going to find your wife and you won’t be com ing back to Houston.” I told him I’m wasn’t looking for a wife. But, lo and behold, I ended up getting a wife off that Shreve port trip. Her name is Latriss, and she likes to travel.
MANDY ZIMMERMAN Affordable Limousine Grand Rapids, Michigan
When I drove a charter for a group of blind people, as we left the airport, my GPS kicked on and said, “In 300 feet, turn right.” One of the passengers said, “Oh great. Our driver is blind, too.” I loved it.
Get out of the bus and see the beautiful sights, BS with other drivers, learn from their experi ence, treat your passengers like royalty — they pay your bills.
LYNETTE BITTNER Croswell VIP Motorcoach Williamsburg,Services Ohio
I choose to do this work. My office is a window to the world, allowing me to see the geogra phy of North America. The peo ple on the bus are my family. Just like the South Dakota slogan, “Great places, Great faces.”
VICKI HUGHES Amador Stage Lines Reno, Nevada
JEFF HORAN Avalon SantaWhitecastleTransportation/ToursClara,California
HOW DID YOU BECOME A DRIVER?
WHAT’S YOUR FUNNIEST TRAVEL STORY?
WHAT’S THE RECEIVED?COMPLIMENTBESTYOU’VE
WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE BUS FEATURE?
WHAT’S YOUR FUNNIEST TRAVEL STORY?
I drove for an “I Love Lucy” competition and show. All these gorgeous ladies dressed as Lu cille Ball. Wow! And they enter tained me the whole trip.
ROOSEVELT “ROSIE” CAREY Louisiana Motor Coach Marrero, Louisiana
WHY DO YOU LIKE BEING A MOTORCOACH DRIVER?
ANDREW HORTON San Jose Charter San Jose, California
MARIA M. SILVA Dynamic Tours & Transportation Orlando, Florida
WHAT’S THE RECEIVED?COMPLIMENTBESTYOU’VE
I love every bit of it. This indus try is like no other. It’s my fam ily. If it wasn’t for the people in this industry, I would probably not be here today. This job saved my life. I have spent numerous hours alone detailing buses to clear my head, to get away from my darkest moments. This is the biggest family in the work industry because I know we all stick together through thick and thin.
The tag axle because it allows for more tailored turns.
BRYCE BUDERER Getaway Tours Milan, Michigan
EXPO EXPRESS | 2022 9
Ask anyone, I’ll drive anything so long as it’s got a good air-ride seat! At 6-foot-8, I can’t be rid ing on the floor with my knees around my ears for eight hours.
That I’m a fun driver. Passengers can’t believe it when they come to the bus for the Vegas Night Tour and “Elvis” is their driver.
RYAN MALONEY Miller IndianapolisTransportation
It’s not the destination, it’s the ride.
ED Ontario,CarrerasLARAToursCalifornia
WHAT’S THE BIGGEST TIP YOU RECEIVED AND THE STORY BEHIND IT?
ALLEN TransportationMCDONALDCharter Services (TCS) Orange, California
WHAT’S YOUR BEST PIECE OF ADVICE FOR A NEWBIE?
OMAR GrandAffordableGOMEZ-MULEROLimousineRapids,Michigan
JAMIE WIESE
Always ask the veteran drivers. They are very willing to help, and have extensive knowledge of many areas and tips that will help your trip go smoothly.
WHAT’S YOUR FUNNIEST STORY?
WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE BUS FEATURE?
Ottertail Minn-Dakota Coaches Fergus Falls, Minnesota
There are many. My friends and family say I should write a book someday about all my travel experiences. One that comes to mind was a tour I did a couple of years ago for a group of insur ance agents from Taiwan. As we were wrapping up our Los Angeles city tour, that par ticular day happened to fall on “World Naked Bike Ride Day.” I have never heard so much laughter and seen so many women whip their cameras out that fast before.
I spent three weeks with a large group of Cajun French from Lafayette, Louisiana. Collective ly, they gave me my biggest tip of all — it was close to a month’s pay. Our three-week journey began in Lafayette and proceed ed to Memphis, Tennessee, and Detroit before arriving at the Canadian border in Windsor. They appreciated how I went out of my way to give them a good experience.
WHAT’S YOUR GO-TO PHRASE?
I enjoy what I do. Every day is not the same. I’m not going to an office and sitting in a cubicle. Some days, I’ll be outside in the sunshine. Some days, I’ll be in the shop. Some days, I might be on the road somewhere, chasing a coach. Hopefully not much. That’s what maintenance is for.
10 EXPO EXPRESS | 2022
WHY HAVE YOU STAYED WORKING ON MOTORCOACHES SO LONG?
Practicing their craft also means pursuing ongoing training and education outside of their normal working hours. They take classes, attend seminars and learn from one another to gain the knowledge they need to do their jobs well. And if we don’t ask enough of them already, throw in the fact they spend thousands of dollars out of their own pocket, to provide essential tools to perform their daily job. We surveyed some of the industry’s best to find out why they love their profession.
DOUG THOMAS Maintenance Manager Amador Stage Lines Reno, Nevada
Whether they are doing routine preventative maintenance or diag nosing and performing complicated repairs, they are making a differ ence every day. These problem-solvers work in greasy, oily and dirty situations. They work long and irregular hours every single week, standing for long hours, bending over and contorting their bodies to perform repairs in hard-to-reach places.
WHAT’S YOUR CAREER HIGHLIGHT?
I am honored to be on two college technical advisory boards and participate in UMA’s Maintenance Inter change. To be in the same room with like-minded people, hav ing multiple years of experience, networking, discussing, and finding solutions to the issues and challenges we all face every day in the maintenance world. It’s priceless and humbling.
››› BY KEVIN WHITWORTH
TYLER LEWIS HAP Fairbanks, Alaska
You will likely never see these essential workers in the photos of happy motorcoach travelers at destinations from Mount Rushmore to Walt Disney World. But without their hard work and dedication, there wouldn’t be such joyful memories. The critical work they perform in shops across the United States and Canada keeps the industry rolling — literally.
A TRIBUTE TO MECHANICSMOTORCOACH
EXPO EXPRESS | 2022 11
Fairbanks, Alaska
5. Everyone has one good idea if you listen.
HAP has always treated its employees very well. They make sure we have everything we need to operate safely, efficiently and comfortably. They understand the importance of having the correct tools, adequate lighting and readily available new parts. Everyone is very friendly and seems genuinely happy to be working here. There is definitely a mom-and-pop family vibe de spite being a company stretched across the globe.
2. Remember, you don’t know everything.
WHAT’S THE BEST COMPLIMENT YOU’VE RECEIVED?
Really any job that shows a dif ference in the operation of the coach, whether it’s a suspension overhaul or internal engine work. I like to see the driver actually notice the difference in the vehicle.
LES KELLOGG HAP
WHAT’S YOUR GO-TO PHRASE? Daggum!
It is something I am good at and enjoy doing. Every day brings something different.
National Southfield,TrailsMichigan
WHAT’S YOUR ADVICE FOR A NEWBIE?
A great satisfaction is on the rare occasion I have to respond to a breakdown. No one is happy, and it’s up to you to make the situation better or worse with your diagnosis. When you have completed your repair and you ask your driver to start the bus and all the guests cheer, there may not be a better compliment to be had.
PETER HAUNOLD HAP Anchorage, Alaska
WHAT REPAIR OR JOB GIVES YOU THE MOST SATISFACTION WHEN COMPLETED?
ERIC MountHALEMcKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge Trapper Creek, Alaska
1. Stay updated. Go to training class and do online training.
3. Have patience. Don’t get in a hurry.
4. Ask questions if you’re not sure.
6. Keep your area clean and clean up after each job.
JON FURTADO SC Aiken,CoachSouth Carolina
WHAT MAKES YOUR COMPANY A GREAT PLACE TO WORK?
SOL Knoxville,PremierMILLERTransportationTennessee EXPANDYOURREACHContactMaryRydeltodayfordetails! mrydel@uma.org 616.265.2316 Create a frontpackagemarketingthatgetsyourmessageinofmotorcoachprofessionalswithourdigital,email,webinar,printandvideoproducts.
CHUCK BROWE
WHY HAVE YOU STAYED WORKING ON MOTORCOACHES SO LONG?
UMA Booth # 525
4:30 PM – 6:30 PM
Sneak Preview — UMA EXPO Exhibit Hall Open — Sponsored by Worldwide Monochem Halls B&C
DOT Reasonable Suspicion Training for Supervisors, Part 2 203
— Sponsored by National Interstate Insurance
Level 1 outside Halls B/C
5:00 PM - 9:00 PM Buses and Beer Hyatt Seaview Ballroom
Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) 202
9:00 AM – 10:00 AM UMA Concurrent Education Sessions
5:00 PM – 6:00 PM UMA Welcome Reception — All UMA Attendees invited!
Hyatt Poolside
10:30 AM – 11:30 PM UMA Concurrent Education Sessions
6:00 PM – 9:00 PM Dinner Hyatt Poolside
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2022
10:00 AM – 10:30 AM AM Break – Sponsored by Masats
3:15 PM – 3:30 PM Afternoon Break Outside of 200 rooms
Session 6: DOT Reasonable Suspicion Training for Supervisors, Part 1 203
10:00 AM – 10:45 AM UMA Associate/Travel Partner Membership Meeting
12 EXPO EXPRESS | 2022
10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Registration Open
Session 3: ADA Coordinator, Part 2 202
Grand Ballroom
Session 4: Managing Cash, Part 2 203
3:00 PM - 4:15 PM UMA 2022 International Driver Competition Written Exam 201A
EXPO SCHEDULE
Renaissance and Hyatt
All activities will take place at the Long otherwiseCenterConventionBeachunlessnoted.
12:45 PM – 4:30 PM Maintenance Interchange 204
Session 2: Financial Management, Part 1 — Managing cash, equity, credit, and fleet assets 203
2:15 PM – 3:15 PM UMA Concurrent Education Sessions
3:00 PM – 5:00 PM UMA State Association Summit — Sponsored by VB Marketing Group 204
8:00 AM – 6:30 PM Registration Open Level 1 outside Halls B/C
Session 1: ADA Coordinator, Part 1 202
Session 5: Tire Maintenance and Best Safety Practices 202
7:00 PM – 10:00 PM Sneak Preview After Party — Transportation Provided — Sponsored by Prevost Museum of Latin American Art
Outside of 200 rooms
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2022
11:45 AM – 2:00 PM UMA Motorcoach EXPO Opening Session, Active Member Meeting, Legislative & Regulatory Update and Lunch — Sponsored by RLI Transportation
7:00 AM – 9:00 AM UMA Breakfast at your hotel — Sponsored by Buslane and Lufthansa Industry Solutions
3:30 PM – 4:15 PM UMA Concurrent Education Sessions
2022 MOTORCOACH
9:00 AM – 12:00 PM UMA EXPO Exhibit Hall Open Halls B&C
Maintenance Competition CHAMPIONS
Hyatt and Renaissance
8:30 AM– 9:45 AM UMA General Session with Keynote Presentation Grand Ballroom
8:00 AM – 12:00 PM Registration Open Level 1 outside Halls B/C
Two-time winner, with Kobussen Trailways in Kaukauna, Wisconsin
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM Maintenance Competition — Sponsored by ABC Companies
SCOTT GALLEGOS
DARREN HAINES
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2022
Demo area – Booth #125
GREG Three-timeLAMMERSgrand champion from Cavalier Coaches, Owatonna, Minnesota, who is now retired
7:00 AM – 8:15 AM
UMA Breakfast at your hotel — Sponsored by Buslane
DAVE MEYERHOFER
UMA Breakfast at your hotel — Sponsored by Buslane Hyatt and Renaissance
The UMA Maintenance Com petition is a great place to show off your knowledge of our fast-changing industry.
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2022
EXPO EXPRESS | 2022 13
12:00 PM– 2:00 PM In-N-Out Burger ® Catering Food Truck — Sponsored by Motor Coach Industries Halls B&C
Winning the Competition was a surprise at first that turned into one of the greatest feelings ever. The guys I watched winning the years before I won were the best of the best. Getting confirmation of years of hard-won knowledge and skill was extremely satisfying.
10:00 AM – 5:00 PM UMA EXPO Exhibit Hall Open Halls B&C
Morning UMA International Driver Competition — Sponsored by Prevost and Lancer Insurance Company
As of 1.28.22, subject to change. Check www.motorcoach.com for updates.
It’s never been more exciting to find defects on a motorcoach, especially when I don’t have to do the repair!
Two-time winner, with JAG Motorcoach in Gladwin, Michigan
6:30 PM – 9:00 PM UMA Member Appreciation Dinner — Sponsored by Temsa Hyatt Regency Ballroom
1:00 PM – 6:00 PM UMA Board Meeting Renaissance
I think the best part of compet ing in the UMA Maintenance Competition was the hands-on part and how you had to really look for issues. It made you look for issues in your day-to-day inspections.
Grand champion when he was Superintendent of Maintenance at Holland American Princess (HAP) in Alaska. He’s currently MCI Technical Solutions Manager
7:00 AM – 9:00 AM
8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Registration Open Level 1 outside Halls B/C
Prevost decided early on in the crisis to do everything within our power to protect the value of our brand. We did so to help shield our operators from fleet devaluation. Prevost has also set up some programs with our internal lender, Volvo Financial Services, to as sist operators. Traditionally, Prevost has not offered a large-scale operating lease program for our customers. We have changed that and are now able to offer operating leases for our Prevost and Volvo products. Prevost also has a robust program for shorter-term rentals; these rentals are handled by the most experienced pre-owned sales team in the industry.
14 EXPO EXPRESS | 2022
WHAT TRENDS SHOULD MOTORCOACH OPERATORS BE PAYING ATTENTION TO THIS YEAR?
We have been doing everything we can to protect the values of our fleets for our operators and to develop workable solutions for them, as we are all stressed by the business’s stop and now the start up processes. We review equipment options, service programs and business solutions to assist in any way we can. When the pandemic hit, business and funding needs became extremely important to the motorcoach industry. Prevost created programs and products to sup port the operator. We were the first to offer extended warranties for parked vehicles, and our Clean + Care program offers many solutions for increased sanitization and distancing, etc.
HOW HAS THE PANDEMIC CHANGED THE WAY YOUR COMPANY SERVES THE MOTORCOACH INDUSTRY?
It’s been a challenging year for original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), but they have risen to it, showing that they are innovative and resourceful in finding new ways to help customers survive and adapt to the changes brought by the pandemic. They also have kept their eye on the future with new technologies that respond to environmental concerns.
Prevost will have several new products on display, beginning with the Prevost Driver Assist, which fully integrates radar, camera and brake technologies and combines these technologies to work together to create driver assistance aimed at reducing incidents and lowering operational costs. Another driver assistance innovation is the intro duction of Prevost’s e-mirrors, which replace traditional mirrors with cameras and monitors. They minimize blind spots, increase drivers’ field of view and enhance sight in low-light situations. Our exclu sive Cloud One seat combines the technologies of our seat manu facturing partner to make it durable and safe. Three collections are available to meet your needs.
PREVOST
››› BRAD WIESE, VP NEW COACH SALES
OEM INSIGHTS,Q&A: TRENDS AND WHAT TO ASK ABOUT
WHAT IS THE MUST-SEE PRODUCT EXPO ATTENDEES NEED TO ASK ABOUT WHEN THEY STOP BY YOUR BOOTH?
One big way these manufacturers are showing their support for the industry is by being at the 2022 UMA Motorcoach EXPO, where they can demonstrate new products and answer operators’ questions. We asked the OEMs to share the insights they gained during the pandemic and what trends they are forecasting in 2022. Check out their answers.
THE ULTRA COACHLINERTM DXL is the industry leader. This motorcoach has the smooth ride, capacity and luggage space of a high-end traditional coach bus, at only half the cost to own and operate. Visit Us At UMA Booth 819 coachliner.com or call (800) 475-1439 CUSTOMIZE YOUR COACHLINER coachliner.com SEVERAL MODELS AVAILABLETravelincomfort and style in the REVOLUTIONARY bus that is changing passenger transportation throughout the US. HALF MAINTENANCETHEEXPENSE 50% DOWNLESSTIME SAVINGSFUEL THOUSANDS OF WARRANTY CENTERS NATIONWIDE BENEFITS & ADVANTAGES - FOR A TOUR -
Attendees should tour the recently updated Van Hool CX models as there have been a number of enhancements, from the driver’s compartment to the lavatory, from upgraded interior materials and digital dash to several available driver assistance features. The bat tery-electric Van Hool offering continues to grow with the new TDX25E, giving operators the choice of single- and double-deck premium motorcoach options with industry-leading range and prov en real-world results. ABC will also be sharing a growing number of shuttle and cutaway solutions, now available. From traditional combustion to 100% battery-electric, these vehicles will provide new business opportunities for operators.
WHAT TRENDS SHOULD MOTORCOACH OPERATORS BE PAYING ATTENTION TO THIS YEAR?
The pandemic reinforced the importance of maintaining quality relationships with our customers and understanding their evolving needs. ABC has focused on market-driven solutions, such as our CLEANS offerings, and multiple technology-driven solutions while continuing to invest in service and support operations, allowing cus tomers to scale their businesses during and post the pandemic. Con tinuing work with our customers and associations to bring awareness and attention for government support will also be important. Look ing forward, opportunities for our customers to grow by scaling fleet size and vehicle type, including zero-emissions solutions, are driving an updated and evolving portfolio.
Trends for 2022 are new contract opportunities for the industry and doing more with less. Everyone, including the OEMs, is working harder, smarter, and more efficiently. With the current Covid situ ation that we are dealing with, we need to collectively find ways to spread the word of safety while riding on motorcoaches, whether it’s through the continued use of air purification systems, UV light ing, or sanitizers. We will be dealing with active viruses for years to come, and we as an industry need to continue to show we are paying attention and doing the proper things necessary to make our riders feel safe.
HOW HAS THE PANDEMIC CHANGED THE WAY YOUR COMPANY SERVES THE MOTORCOACH INDUSTRY?
COMPANIESABC
WHAT TRENDS SHOULD MOTORCOACH OPERATORS BE PAYING ATTENTION TO THIS YEAR?
Continued introduction of vehicle technologies from driver assis tance to vehicle efficiency and monitoring will grow as motorcoaches continue to evolve. Moving to zero-emissions vehicles will be driven by not only government regulation, but also forward-looking cus tomers and organizations that see the dramatic impact these vehicles can have on their community and businesses. Optimizing fleet com position and incorporating web-based travel tools will be key for our industry to offer the breadth and flexibility of options demanded by riders, from group travel to individual ridership. Identifying creative ways to attract and retain employees will be key to our industry’s OR industries’ future.
››› RANDY ANGELL NATIONAL SALES MANAGER
16 EXPO EXPRESS | 2022
HOW HAS THE PANDEMIC CHANGED THE WAY YOUR COMPANY SERVES THE MOTORCOACH INDUSTRY?
››› THOM PEEBLES, VICE PRESIDENT, MARKETING
We are now working in a new normal within our industry based on staff shortages, increased operators’ expenses, and a need for less equipment. In response, we set up an external team to assist from the road (field-techs) as well as to be able to handle the abundance of incoming calls from operators who need technical support. Our 24-hour call service has been very active based on the amount of time that coaches have been sitting during this pandemic. We are also incorporating a partner within the financing world to work with us regarding the financing and leasing part of our business.
We at Temsa are displaying our new redesigned TS30, all new rede signed TS45 (unveiling at UMA), and our all-electric TS45E. While Covid19 shut down most of the world for the past 14 months, Temsa took this time to revamp and grow our product offerings, ownership, and key staff. In addition, we will be announcing an exclusive Temsa financing arm to help support us and our customers. With a great end to 2021, we at Temsa couldn’t be more excited for 2022 and beyond!
TEMSA
WHAT IS THE MUST-SEE PRODUCT EXPO ATTENDEES NEED TO ASK ABOUT WHEN THEY STOP BY YOUR BOOTH?
WHAT IS THE MUST-SEE PRODUCT EXPO ATTENDEES NEED TO ASK ABOUT WHEN THEY STOP BY YOUR BOOTH?
Sustainable technology at your service #ByYourSide Irizar USA 100 Cassia Way - Henderson NV, 89014 702 431 0707 www.irizarusa.com Irizar i6, the power of versatility The Irizar i6 is a versatile coach, ideal for both regular and occasional services, with an attractive, modern design for customers who are seeking maximum profitability.
We are excited for 2022 — it will be the year of revitalization. If there’s anything the last couple of years have taught us, it is to pay attention to the ever-changing demands of the industry according to the external environmental factors. As we are still dealing with the unknown, the best approach is to consistently pay attention to these demands. We are ready to adapt to the needs of the market and offer the flexibility every passenger or group requires to function.
››› ZANE T GRAY , DIRECTOR OF MARKETING
WHAT TRENDS SHOULD MOTORCOACH OPERATORS BE PAYING ATTENTION TO THIS YEAR?
First things first: we strongly believe in the recovery of our industry. The pandemic has shown how vital this industry is to our society. The desire to travel will be even stronger after the pandemic. There fore, we see a strong potential for charter and tour buses. Further more, North America offers a wealth of opportunities to expand the long-haul motorcoach business. As in all other segments, quality and safety will be key to attract passengers. Bringing quality, safety and after-sales support together will be the key to success.
WHAT TRENDS SHOULD MOTORCOACH OPERATORS BE PAYING ATTENTION TO THIS YEAR?
Irizar will display the Irizar i6 Motorcoach, with an outstanding design that, with its aerodynamics, offers the best-in-class mileage performance. However, it would be interesting for the customers to spend some time with our team and learn about the service/support programs we have for them, which include services for financing, customization, maintenance services, and our part programs. We are looking forward to meeting everyone at the UMA Expo 2022 and to
IRIZARreconnect!
The pandemic definitely changed a few things for our business; it redirected our concentration more on the company’s service orien tation. We have always been focused to be close to our customers offering the best solutions in each situation. The challenges brought by the pandemic empowered us to strengthen our service and address their needs while they prepare for the industry to thrive again. We launched a preventative maintenance program to keep their coaches up and running with optimized costs that would aid the customers to stay in business and help them restart their businesses efficiently. We have also developed product solutions based on the health and safety protocols. With these changes, we have been able to serve the customers well.
At EXPO, we are launching the all new Mercedes-Benz Tourrider. This coach was designed by Daimler engineers from across the globe and, more importantly, with a lot of input from our customers. These coaches are equipped with the latest in technology, safety, and com fort. We look forward to showing the industry how we can provide the fleet and aftermarket support to help them grow and maintain their fleet for years to
The pandemic is an unprecedented challenge for our industry, but we have shown that we are agile and creative and that we can “keep the world moving.” During this time, we worked to grow our after market support supply chain across North America. We have also used this opportunity to listen to our customers and find tailor-made solutions for their individual needs. We are now launching the Mercedes-Benz Tourrider to be part of the recovery of our industry.
››› AXIER PRESIDENT,ETXEZARRETA,IRIZARUSA
WHAT IS THE MUST-SEE PRODUCT EXPO ATTENDEES NEED TO ASK ABOUT WHEN THEY STOP BY YOUR BOOTH?
HOW HAS THE PANDEMIC CHANGED THE WAY YOUR COMPANY SERVES THE MOTORCOACH INDUSTRY?
HOW HAS THE PANDEMIC CHANGED THE WAY YOUR COMPANY SERVES THE MOTORCOACH INDUSTRY?
18 EXPO EXPRESS | 2022
WHAT IS THE MUST-SEE PRODUCT EXPO ATTENDEES NEED TO ASK ABOUT WHEN THEY STOP BY YOUR BOOTH?
AMERICANORTHCOACHESDAIMLERcome.LLC
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WHAT IS THE MUST-SEE PRODUCT EXPO ATTENDEES NEED TO ASK ABOUT WHEN THEY STOP BY YOUR BOOTH?
Throughout the pandemic, the most critical element for MCI con tinues to be serving and supporting our customers with consistent service, parts availability, and access to training. Like many, we had to adapt our company to new realities yet keep the same available resources. We created tools to educate operators on long-term park ing and storing coaches, communicate and share information on en hanced cleaning procedures with their ridership, and return coaches into service. We are now seeing recovery of our customers and are ramping back up service as support requirements increase.
BYD
MOTOR INDUSTRIESCOACH
Definitely the electrification. Zero-emission, battery electric tech nology is changing the game for long-range transportation. With policy and funding support, more and more alternative fuel mo torcoaches will be sent on the street. For example, the Biden Ad ministration’s “Build Back Better” agenda includes putting 24,000 green buses on the road to reduce greenhouse emissions. A number of states, including California, are working to encourage a shift from fossil fuel vehicles to zero-emission technology. In addition to help ing clean our air, this push is also creating hundreds of green jobs.
WHAT TRENDS SHOULD MOTORCOACH OPERATORS BE PAYING ATTENTION TO THIS YEAR?
››› BRENT MAITLAND, VICE PRESIDENT PRIVATE SECTOR SALES & MARKETING
Quite honestly, not at all. But the pandemic did badly hit the entire supply chain. Currently the materials cost, shipping cost, and parts lead time is not as good as pre-COVID. At our factory in Lancaster, California, we’ve adopted stringent safety protocols, including reg ular testing, requiring the wearing of masks at all times, and pro moting social distancing. BYD also donated well over $1 million in masks and bottles of hand sanitizer to first responders and charitable organizations across the United States.
WHAT IS THE MUST-SEE PRODUCT EXPO ATTENDEES NEED TO ASK ABOUT WHEN THEY STOP BY YOUR BOOTH?
HOW HAS THE PANDEMIC CHANGED THE WAY YOUR COMPANY SERVES THE MOTORCOACH INDUSTRY?
HOW HAS THE PANDEMIC CHANGED THE WAY YOUR COMPANY SERVES THE MOTORCOACH INDUSTRY?
››› JASON YAN, DIRECTOR OF SALES OPERATIONS, COACH & BUS
BYD Buses, including our C10M 45-foot commuter coach, which has been delivered to multiple customers in California. In fact, San ta Barbara County’s Clean Air Express commuter service just re cently held a ribbon-cutting for its new C10M, noting its 172-mile range and its positive impact on the region. We offer a variety of motorcoach models, including double-deck models such as our 45foot C10MS and our 35-foot C8MS. These buses offer more seating capacity and more space for passengers to keep social distance. We are thrilled to be able to bring a variety of motorcoach models to UMA, letting people get a chance to see them up close.
20 EXPO EXPRESS | 2022
For MCI, we are excited to have a coach back on the show floor at Expo. The J4500, along with new products offered by NFI Parts, are featured. We will have our whole team on hand and encourage every one to stop by and visit us.
WHAT TRENDS SHOULD MOTORCOACH OPERATORS BE PAYING ATTENTION TO THIS YEAR?
In 2022, continuing improvement in consumer travel and ridership, along with economics, will affect our industry’s recovery and will continue to be the central theme. Supply chain challenges, inflation, the impact of new federal funding and regulations will all play a part. Specific to coaches, we continue to be impacted by driver shortages and pressure on wages. Vehicle financing is another trend to watch as more lenders re-enter the market. Interestingly, several private operators are paving the way toward electric vehicles during the re covery — a trend we are prepared to support with coaches, financing, and infrastructure.
“The customers just love the product,” said Roger Nadeau, Presi dent, Thompson Valley Charters Ltd. “We recommend Icomera and feel they are leading the way in onboard entertainment for travel companies.”
ALPHA SIGMA GT LUXURY 2+1 PREMIUM 2+1
Delivering the Ultimate Passenger EXPERIENCEThe
Icomera X-series hosts GoView, the industry-leading onboard entertainment portal that provides access to Hollywood movies, TV series and eBooks directly on the vehicle itself – no downloading or buffering. It can also simultaneously host video surveillance, telemat ics and passenger information systems, providing operators with a flexible, extensible technology platform that can accommodate a va riety of uses.
EXPO EXPRESS | 2022 21 www.amaya-astronseating.com TO REMEMBER Bob Greene Ph. (402) 639 4454 email: bgreene45@cox.net Jeff Goldwasser Ph. (551) 482 1608 email: interiors@jeffgoldwasser.com Sales Representatives for the U.S. and Canada:DESIGNED FOR BUILT FOR SAFETY COMFORT
For Icomera, the ultimate passenger experience translates into a sim ple equation: Dependable Service + Clean Facilities + Reliable Wi-Fi = Increase in Satisfaction, Loyalty and Patronage
“The reality is that motorcoach operators have grown weary of cheap, imported solutions which merely ‘check a box.’ The cost of supporting low-grade technology, and the vendors that peddle such goods, outweighs the benefit,” explains John Busskohl, a Senior Regional Sales Manager withOwnersIcomera.and tour operators who want to revitalize the passenger expe rience through new, digital amenities are finding success with Icomera’s “one-box” concept. The technology offers a scalable onboard platform, the X-series, capable of handling the communications, memory, and process ing needs of various integrated applications.
Over the past two years, Icomera has been advising owners, operators and manufacturers on how to sharpen the focus on the passenger experi ence — beginning with sound investments in onboard amenities.
The goal is to deliver the ultimate passenger experience. Icomera helps clients and partners to create a digital service that positively impacts cus tomer satisfaction and loyalty.
Amaya-Astron Seating is specialized in the manufacture and development of cutting-edge and innovative products to offer customized solutions for the coach market.
22 EXPO EXPRESS | 2022
The leadership of Irizar U.S.A. is transitioning. The baton is being handed to Dan Scarpino, who previously led the company’s Australian market.Anative of Brazil, Scarpino joined the Spanish manufacturer of lux ury buses and coaches in 2004 as a mechanical engineer. As his respon sibilities grew, he spent time in different markets around the globe. His Australian accent reflects his ability to quickly fit in linguistically.
“I don’t know why I adopt accents so quickly, but I try to make people feel comfortable talking to me,” said the trilingual Scarpino, who also speaksIrizarSpanish.arrived in the U.S. in 2016, only to have its efforts stall during the pandemic. Now, the company is gearing up for a 2.0 relaunch that will focus on service. It’s the formula that quickly grew Irizar’s market in Australia from 2% to 25% in 8 years.
CREATIVITY’andeventuallyplanstoofferthefullmaintenancecoverageavailableinothercountries.AsoneofEurope’soldestbusmakers,Irizarunderstandstheimportanceofrelationships,especiallywithfamily-ownedcompanies.“Noonegetstobe130yearsoldwithoutasolidstrategy,”hesaid.
As 2022 unfolds, ABC Companies continues to expand its product portfolio, giving operators the tools and support they need for rapidly evolving customer needs. While still working closely with manufacturer Van Hool by continuously evolving product lines for U.S. and Canadi
“The slowdown allowed us to find the right partners for this expan sion, from Turtle Top and New England Wheels, through the Vicinity midsize low floors and up to the recently launched Van Hool TDX25E all-electric double deck, as we continue to look for suppliers to service our customer’s needs,” Cornell said. “However, while change is hap pening fast, our core values are unwavering, so customers can be assured that we are fully prepared to service and support any product we sell, let ting them focus on growing their business knowing we have their back.”
an operations, ABC is leveraging its dealer distributor model to source complimentary vehicles, services and support that open new doors for motorcoach operators.
Irizar is launching an internet portal to provide customers access to technical information. It is also developing a mobile service network
EVOLVING to Meet the Customer NEEDS
As customers have had to pivot into transporting smaller groups, of fering on-demand services, and partnering with other private and public transportation providers, ABC rapidly expanded its portfolio to give it self a competitive advantage. Its vehicle options can now accommodate a 12-to-81 passenger trip, running across town or across the country, using diesel or electric power.
Looking After Customers Requires
“There are lasting changes to our industry that will bring new oppor tunities for our customers,” stated Roman Cornell, President and CCO. “Our success is dependent on giving customers the vehicles and support they need to be competitive within their markets.”
“We grew into market leaders in Australia,” Scarpino said. “Our plan is to grow our service network to the standards that the U.S. market needs. It really demands a lot of creativity to look after customers. We have experience in 93 countries of bringing innovations to the market when it comes to service.”
‘A LOT OF
Kaiser says multiple manufacturers have told him that supply is expected to be tight for the foreseeable future. Adding to the supply chain issues, increases in anti-dumping and countervailing duties put in place a few years ago have contributed to a significant reduction in Chinese-manufactured tires in the commercial market (up to 40% of commercial tires at the peak). That has put pressure on supply, forcing manufacturers with fixed capacity to have to choose which sizes to pri oritize. Unfortunately, Kaiser says, that has not been good news for the motorcoach and school bus industry.
Bill Kaiser, President of Motorcoach Tire Sales of Columbus, Georgia, recommends considering these strategies.
With the growing scarcity of motorcoach tires caused by both global supply chain issues and tire manufacturers prioritizing popular truck sizes over “low volume sizes,” it can be challenging for operators to keep their vehicles rolling.
— KEEP AN OPEN MIND TO ALTERNATIVE SUPPLIERS AND BRANDS.
— TAKE AN INVENTORY. Operators can extend their inventory by replacing good tires on parked buses with worn or low-tread tires, and rotating high-tread tires to high-mileage buses. Also, inspect your spare tires. Tires in the spare compartments often will have an older DOT date, and operators should consider using them before the tire reaches six years from date of manufacture (the age many manufac turers recommend replacement). Consider replacing with moderately worn tires with relatively newer DOT dates.
— ORDER WELL IN ADVANCE. What normally takes two weeks to deliv er can now take up to two months.
EXPO EXPRESS | 2022 23 WWW.MONOCHEM.NET | MONOCHEMORDERS@TEMSA.COM BIO-GREEN | DEODORIZERS | FRESHENERS | CLEANERS | TOOLS & ACCESSORIES DISPENSINGSYSTEM TA KE THE G UESS WORK OUT OF D I SPENSING PR O D UC T S. ENTER T O WIN AT UMA IN BOOTH #437 ENTER TO WIN A a $300 value BetterBRANDTHEOFCLEAN Keep ROLLINGBusesDuringtheTireShortage
— AVOID PANIC BUYING. Have a “Plan B” in place. Try not to be in a position to have to panic buy because you assume your regular tire source is always going to have tires available when you need them. Have other options in place.
In “the old days,” whether leasing or purchasing, operators were com fortable with using only one supplier or brand. Now, with all manu facturers experiencing spot shortages on all sizes, be prepared to pivot as necessary.
His team includes equipment finance veterans such as Scott Baer, Garland Tillery and David Scoular, who are familiar faces in the mo torcoach finance world.
“We finance just about any type of equipment, and we’re getting close to about a $600 million equipment finance portfolio,” explained Jule Kreyling, President of AUEF. “On the equipment finance side, we do all sorts of transactions: loans, TRAC leases, equipment finance agree ments, operating leases.”
New OptionFINANCINGEnterstheMarketdealsthatjustaren’tgettingdonebecausethereisn’t
24 EXPO EXPRESS | 2022
Lancer
COMMITMENTFortifiestoIndustrybyastrongerfinancialbase,”Delaney said. “We’re firmly committed to providing the same high level of service our policyholders and brokers have come to expect from the same insurance professionals they’ve come to know and trust.” Lancer shares a proud history with the motorcoach industry, and with this merger, its leaders see an even brighter future.“Lancer will continue to deliver the excep tional insurance solutions and value-added services that can only come from decades of experience serving motorcoach opera tors,” Delaney said. “With Core Special ty’s additional capital and resources, we now have expanded capabilities that will enable us to better serve motorcoach operators as their needs evolve far into the future.”
financing operation is a subsidiary of Atlantic Union Bank, a $20 billion publicly traded regional bank headquartered in Richmond, Virginia.
“We came to realize the motorcoach industry wasn’t currently being adequately served by the lending industry and banks. We know in a situation like this, that there are probably a lot of pretty good
“We offer financing for motorcoaches, school buses, transit shuttle buses, limos — just about anything that are people movers, really. With more than 100+ years of combined experience in the specialty vehi cles business, we are well positioned to ensure business owners have the equipment they need to get the job done. We’re offering a broad menu of competitive programs,” Kreyling said.
enough capacity,” Kreyling said.
GARLAND TILLERY JULE PRESIDENTKREYLINGAUEF SCOTT BAER
Lancer Insurance Company and Core Specialty Insurance Holdings Inc. recently completed a merger that combines the specialty property and casualty insurers. Lancer, a lead ing provider of premier insurance solutions to the U.S. mo torcoach industry for over 35 years, will operate as it has for decades, retaining its brand, employees, management, and locations.Themerger comes at a time when many insur ance carriers are moving away from transporta tion business. Matthew Jenkins, President of Core Specialty’s Lancer Division, said: “We believe this transaction provides us with the additional resources to grow, and bolsters our financial base to continue to deliver fi nancial security to the businesses we serve.”
During the height of the pandemic, an OEM contacted AUEF to find financing for a multimillion-dollar deal. The 25 lenders in the mar ket before the pandemic had dropped to a handful as the industry strug gled under COVID-19 restrictions. As a result, it was hard to find good terms for the client until AUEF stepped in.
TIM H. LANCERDELANEYSENIOR VICE PRESIDENT
Atlantic Union Equipment Finance, Inc. (AUEF) is a new player in the financing space of the bus and motorcoach industry. Its entry comes as options have contracted dramatically during the past two years of the pandemic.Theequipment
Lancer Senior Vice President Tim H. Delaney sees the merger as a positive sign for the transportation sector. “Our clients and brokers will not be impacted by the merger, other than being backed
the bus and motorcoach industry for successfully navigating these challenging times. We are driven to provide our customers with the resources they need to keep their business moving.
NEW PRODUCTS. Prevost Driver Assist™ is a technology that works with drivers to mitigate challenging situations, including lane departure and potential frontal incidents. eMirrors is an electronic side mirror system that offers a significantly larger field of view, elimi nating side-by-side blind spots. Prevost’s exclusive Cloud One seating offers the most ergonomic passenger seats available in the industry.
SERVICE SOLUTIONS. Prevost Uptime, for as little as $15 per day, supports operators with predictive costs using advanced pricing and planning. Block of Hours allows operators to purchase regularly scheduled timeslots in a Prevost service center giving them priority to get into the shop. With the largest service network in the industry, Prevost provides flexible solutions that make sense for operators who might have had to downsize their maintenance staff over the past two years.
Rebounding Requires continuingoptionstorcoachMichaelofferingstobiggestAPPROACHFLEXIBLEaAsthemotorcoachindustryreboundsfromthepandemic,thechallengecanbeanticipatingacompany’sneeds,fromservicefleetsize.Tomeetthoseneeds,Prevostaligneditsproductandservicestoprovideoperatorswithmoreflexibilitythanever,explainsPower,DirectorofMarketingatPrevost.Thelongtimemomanufacturerrolledoutnewsolutionstoprovideevenmoretomanagemarketplaceuncertainty,whilesimultaneouslytointroduceinnovativeproducts.
We are proud of clients in
EXPO EXPRESS | 2022 25 Specialty Finance 1stsource.comGroup Member FDIC | Proud Sponsor of UMA DRIVEN.
SHORT TERM SOLUTIONS. Leasing and rental options are available to help operators transition into a new normal without a long-term commitment. Prevost offers three solutions — Prevost Rental, shortterm leases, and operating leases — to give customers time to evaluate their fleet needs and make decisions that work for their business.
our
Monochem booth #437 pg 23
1st Source Bank pg 25
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centers across the country offer convenient maintenance, reducing downtime by 50%.
Thanks to these businesses for supporting the UMA’s Expo Express 2022 magazine, a tribute to the frontline workers who work hard to keep motorcoaches on the road, taking passengers safely to their destinations.
26 EXPO EXPRESS | 2022 DOWETOGETHERCANSOMUCH Go to www.uma.org/unite NEWS | ADVOCACYRESOURCES|EDUCATION
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Lancer booth #419 pg 2
Advertiser INDEX
Atlantic EquipmentUnionFinance
USI Affinity pg 25
Insurance .......................
Building an LUXURYAffordableRIDEexpenseandfuelsavings.Thousandsofwarranty
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ABC Companies booth #937 pg 19
Irizar booth #743 pg 17
At 102 inches wide, it’s as wide a vehicle as is legally allowed, and at 45 feet, it’s also the longest. It can seat up to 61 passengers.
The name “coach” descends from horse-drawn carriages and stagecoach es, but the modern version is associated with relaxation, amenities and convenience. When passengers settle in for a long bus trip, they expect to enjoy the ride. That might mean looking out the window, getting some extra work done, or sleeping through the whole thing. If the passengers aren’t comfortable, they won’t be happy.
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Unite with hundreds of motorcoach operators like you to build your business and strengthen our industry.
Motor Coach Tire Sales pg 27
Prevost booth #243 pg 5
Ultra Coachliner booth #819 pg 15
The Ultra Coachliner DXL, a collaboration between National Bus Sales and Executive Coach Builders, offers a luxury ride delivered on an afford able budget. Coachliner front-end coach buses operate at about half the cost of a traditional coach bus. Owners can count on half the maintenance
Travel ................................................................
“You can customize an Ultra Coachliner with the best of every thing, whether it’s the latest clean air system or tables and a restroom. If you’re looking to buy a luxury bus, this front-engine coach is loaded with all the features your business needs, making it perfect for travel, touring, and beyond,” said Steve Henshaw, President/CEO, National Bus Sales.
Amaya-Astron Seating booth #719 pg 21 booth #820 pg 28
Icomera booth #837 pg 7
EXPO EXPRESS | 2022 27 PERFORMANCEALL-WEATHERLONG-LASTING, 124RYokohamaall-newthe22.5”,–17.5”fromsizesinAvailable™isalong- yourkeeptoengineeredtreaddeeply-sipedawithradialall-positionlasting, round.yearmovingfleetdeliveryandpick-upregionalNEWALL-POSITION TRACTIONROUNDYEAR brakingsnowandwetoutstandingprovideribsDeeply-siped snowseverethecarries124Rthepowerfulsotractioncreating designation.serviceSipesDeep provideandwearevenpromotegroovescircumferentialwavyFour snow.andwettheintractionoptimizedGroovesSerpentine life,casingimprovedforpenetrationdebrisandstoneReduce retreadability.anddurability, unlimited6-yearabyBacked warrantycasingretread sizes).19.5”&17.5”all(on unlimited7-yearabyBacked warrantycasingretread sizes).22.5”all(on HAULREGIONAL LIFETREADORIGINALLONG delivertoroadthewithpressurecontactofdispersalbetterPromotes life.treadlongerTreadWideExtra stability.drivingenhanceandwearstep-downshoulderReduceRibsShoulderRigid requiredindustry’stheMeets severeforcriteriaperformance service.snow AFFINIT Y PARTNER Contact Bill Kaiser | 678-463-41 0 www.MotorCoachTireSales.com | bill@motorcoachtiresales.com Yokohama Updated Motorcoach Tire Now Available! Join 100s Of Operators Utilizing Yokohama Tires! Contact Motorcoach Tire Sales For Pricing And Terms! LONG-LASTING, ALL-WEATHER PERFORMANCE Available in sizes from 17.5” – 22.5”, the all-new Yokohama 124R™ is a longlasting, all-position radial with a deeply-siped tread engineered to keep your regional pick-up and delivery fleet moving year round. YEAR ROUND TRACTION Deeply-siped ribs provide outstanding wet and snow braking creating traction so powerful the 124R carries the severe snow service designation. Deep Sipes Four wavy circumferential grooves promote even wear and provide optimized traction in the wet and snow. Serpentine Grooves BUILT FOR LASTING VALUE Reduce stone and debris penetration for improved casing life, durability, and retreadability. Rock Shield Platforms o4110achtiresales.com Backed by a 6-year unlimited retread casing warranty (on all 17.5” & 19.5” sizes). Backed by a 7-year unlimited retread casing warranty (on all 22.5” sizes). LONG ORIGINAL TREAD LIFE Promotes better dispersal of contact pressure with the road to deliver longer tread life. Extra Wide Tread Reduce shoulder step-down wear and enhance driving stability. Rigid Shoulder Ribs Meets the industry’s required performance criteria for severe snow service.
The driving force behind financingequipmentsolutions.AUEFSpecialtyVehicle@AtlanticUnionBank.comVisitusatBooth#820
