Coach & Bus Live previews its exhibitor show highlights for 2015

A first look at new vehicles, accessories, equipment, technology & services at this month’s show

With the full exhibitor line up now almost confirmed, Coach & Bus Live 2015 – the essential domestic showcase for the UK’s coach, bus, mini/midi vehicle and passenger transport technology sectors, has released its exhibitor show highlights for 2015.

Taking place later this month at the NEC Birmingham on 30 September and 1 October, the event features over 200 sector leading exhibitors and offers everything needed to successfully operate a passenger-carrying fleet – from the latest vehicles, accessories and workshop equipment, to IT solutions and essential business services.

The following is just a taste of what’s new for 2015:

Vehicles

Alexander Dennis (ADL) is exhibiting a wide range of modern, fuel-efficient bus and coach products at Coach & Bus Live 2015, including revolutionary new vehicles powered by next-generation technology. ADL's exhibits will further enhance their reputation as the industry leader in terms of offering multiple low and zero-emission vehicles (stand H20).

At this year’s show, the stand from Arriva Bus and Coach is filled with new products. They’ll be exhibiting a Van Hool EX 16H, Temsa MD9 and Temsa Safari HD Euro 6, along with a Van Hool TX model in the outdoor display area (stand A7).

Minis to Midis is displaying two examples of the now fully-productionised, ground-breaking Noone Turas 900 (with unique nearside entry for passengers and crew), alongside a high specification Turas 700 that is proving popular as a 29-seat Vario replacement. Also showing: two top specification Sprinter-based Turas 500 models, one of which is a totally new 7.7 metres variant (stand M3).

New products from Moseley include the Sitcar Voyager and Indcar Next midi-coaches, MAN Beulas Mythos Super High 13.7m coach, a DAF engined Van Hool – which is new to the product range for 2016, and a VDL Futura2 13.1m luxury coach (stand K1).

UNVI Bus and Coach is exhibiting five vehicles at this year’s show. These include two Voyager GTs, which have undergone revisions since the prototype launch. The first is the 34-seat 4.2M2 with 700kg weight capacity, the second is the 19 VIP. Both have power ratings of 230hp and automated gearboxes, ensuring plenty of smooth power (stand B30).

Nu-Track is launching the ‘City Dash’, the first of their new low floor buses, at this year’s show. The vehicle is based on a Fiat Ducato chassis, with 16 seated passengers and the ability to accommodate up to 4 wheelchairs (stand E9.8).

Connaught PSV is exhibiting a 36-seat Atego 1224L Ferqui F5, the new Extended Soroco DL (with 16 seats and 2 tables), and a 16-seat Standard Soroco S3 with large boot. Plus, brand new to the UK for 2016, the Ferqui Sunrise in 33-seat format on the Iveco 70C17 chassis (stand A5).

Starline Limo Bus is exhibiting two Starline Limo Buses from its latest collection, highlighting the impressive features that the vehicles sport both inside and under the bonnet. Made from Mercedes Sprinters, these bespoke buses are IVA (Individual Vehicle Approval) tested (stand A25).

Dawsonrentals bus and coach is displaying the new Plaxton Cheetah XL and the popular Mercedes Tourismo executive coach. There will also be a VW Transporter Camper van on show, which attendees can win for a weekend (stand J31).

Vehicle accessories

Alcolock UK is launching a new single use Breath Alcohol Tester at this year’s show, which features the new Scottish Drink Drive Limit and the existing UK Drink Drive Limit. The Drivesafe Express single use tester complements the already comprehensive range of breath alcohol testers manufactured by ACS and supplied through their UK office – Alcolock UK. Also showing: the ALCOLOCK V3 ignition interlock and breath alcohol testers (stand T66).

WAM Wheel and Motion is the new name in the wheel finishing market but the names behind it are very familiar – Stuart and Pepa Smith. Stuart, the man behind Euroliners, is recognised as being the expert for developing quality wheeliners. A full range of trims (WAMliners) is now being offered, and they have just added the new WAM 350 16” for the Ford Transit MK8 2014 (stand E12).

USSC is exhibiting its newly released B Series driver seat. Robust and ergonomically designed to meet the life-cycle requirements of the bus market, the B Series is rated to 30 stone and comes with either a low profile air suspension, mechanical suspension, or mechanical height adjuster (stand A24-S).

TTN Technologies has developed Footright, an intelligent safety device that was designed with the bus and coach industry in mind. Its primary function is to eliminate the effects caused by foot-misplacement, where the driver mistakes the throttle pedal for the footbrake pedal (stand T21).

Ablemail Electronics is showcasing its range of DC-DC converters/solar panel chargers, and microprocessor control battery chargers, which are suitable for many applications on commercial vehicles (stand T78).

Brake test equipment specialists Bowmonk Tapley is exhibiting its popular DVSA-approved portable brake tester, the BrakeCheck, plus the Bowmonk SensorCheck and Crypton headlamp aligners and diesel smoke meters. Bowmonk’s In-CarPC division has its new range of rugged, fanless in-vehicle computers and 4G routers, both of which can provide passenger Wi-Fi hotspot services (stand B33).

Giti Tire is showcasing a wide selection of GT Radial tyres (including the revised GSR225 Combi Road and GAU861 all-position urban city-bus tyres) at this year’s show, offering a proven solution for the full remit of commercial passenger vehicles. A leading brand in the mid-tier tyre market, the company will also highlight its range of value-added services (stand D6).

Hants & Dorset Trim is now offering the new Chapman Probax seat as a refurbished unit. Operators can convert their existing Chapman seat to the latest driver friendly Probax seat and reduce maintenance in the process. A sample seat is available for inspection at the show (stand C5).

Compak Ramps is promoting its innovative new CP5UG-NG all-electric, single platform, lightweight ramp (which offers a weight saving of 30-34%). Reliability is underpinned by a five year warranty – achieved by innovative engineering design, lower-mass components, and incorporating those components which have been tried and tested in a variety of environments worldwide for more than fifteen years (stand H8).

As the newly appointed UK distributor for USSC, TEK Seating is exhibiting their B series driver seats. Ergonomically designed to help reduce driver fatigue and stress, the structural integrity built into each seat significantly dampens erratic movements caused by varying road surfaces. Design options offer lots of custom seat choices (stand D28).

FCL Organisation, a leading distributor and manufacturer of engine filtration technology and components, is inviting visitors to join them for a round of golf in a state-of-the-art golf simulator at the show; followed by a refreshing pint courtesy of partner Brewery Charles Wells (stand H10).

Parma Group is expanding its O-Trim range. This range of quality, stainless steel styling products has been developed to complement existing wheel trims and includes mirror covers, grille kits, door handle covers and number plate trims. Products are available for Mercedes Sprinter, Vito, VW Crafter and Ford Transit (stand B1).

This year, Ster is presenting Ultra light family, along with Slim and Premium Intercity Seats. The light ergonomic design and money savings are just some of the advantages of their seats. A wide range of configuration possibilities make them a sophisticated option for vehicle manufacturers and operators (stand A24).

Ceteor is exhibiting its range of 12/24V booster packs capable of starting over 2500HP at this year’s show. The boosters are made in Belgium with an unrivalled 2 year warranty, which includes the batteries and a lifetime warranty on the case (stand E20).

Priden Engineering specialises in manufacturing high-quality fuel tanks, DEF/Ad-blue tanks and engine coolant tanks for OE manufacturers and after-market retailers alike. All tanks are supplied with Type approval certification (stand A22).

Garage Equipment

Tecalemit Garage Equipment Co is exhibiting a range of its best-selling vehicle servicing equipment, including lubrication station, emission tester and the VOSA ATF DE9700 brake tester. This year, they are also showing the Haweka wheel alignment equipment, complete with ACC calibration system (stand B7).

Eclipse Diagnostics, the largest multi-brand CV diagnostics company, is showcasing the powerful Jaltest software, associated equipment and extensive selection of interface cables. There will be live demonstrations and the opportunity to use, what for many workshops is, the diagnostic product of choice (stand G3).

TOTALKARE, the UK's leading supplier of heavy-duty lifting solutions, is showcasing its range of cable-free column lifts – including the S6cf cable-free lift system. Capable of handling weights of up to 7.5 tonnes per column, the system can be used in various configurations. They offer maximum flexibility, whilst the lack of cables also has many safety benefits (stand H24).

Rotronics Battery Management Systems is demonstrating the very latest in Midtronics diagnostic tablet-based technology – the DSS7000. With its extensive range of features and expandable apps and capabilities, battery and electrical system testing will never be the same again (stand H33).

Technology & communications

Fältcom UK is introducing an open platform to manage all IT on board in public transport vehicles. Usually, every new function means a new installation but the communication platform from Fältcom gives the flexibility and opportunity to integrate and manage applications from any company in the same device management tool (stand T18).

Passengerfta’s new software for vehicle inspection and tachograph data will be on show at Coach & Bus Live 2015. They’ll be demonstrating Visionfta, which allows operators to view and analyse data across all their operations on one user-friendly online platform (stand K12).

Rise Digital Media is demonstrating NextStop – a new onboard audio visual solution from their BusHub digital innovation project. In addition to announcing each stop on a bus or coach journey, as it is approached, the interactive display screens can be matched to location-based advertising for destinations, attractions and places of interest within the local community – offering operators the opportunity to generate capital from popular services and routes. There will be a limited number of pilot registrations available at the show (stand T44).

Mobile internet connectivity pioneer, Icomera is unveiling its new in-vehicle cellular router – the M4X, as part of a ‘Connected Journey’ demonstration. Icomera’s in-vehicle cellular routers utilise patented software for combining multiple networks to provide the fastest, most reliable connection available for road passengers and systems (stand T65).

Alfatronix is showcasing a new range of 12v/24v USB chargers designed for the automotive sector with e marking and ce marking approvals. Suitable for both Apple and Android phones and tablets, they can be installed into seat backs, underneath the seats or customised for OEM applications (stand T70).

Azimut Bus Solutions is presenting its new AZIMUT Own Device, an on-board entertainment system that enables bus operators to offers passengers access to streamed multimedia content from their own devices. Content can include live satellite TV, music, movies, TV series, documentaries, books, tourist info, route information, newspapers, games, magazines, USB cloud management, surveys, advertising, the internet, and more (stand F2).

After its initial release on Android, TranzSafety – the electronic solution for daily vehicle safety checks from Tranzaura, the Northampton-based provider of web based solutions for the bus and coach industry, is now available from iTunes for all iOS based devices (stand T74).

DILAX Systems UK will, alongside its Automatic Passenger Counting solutions, be demonstrating its Upper Seat Occupancy system. This will allow passengers to see what seats are available on the upper deck of the bus prior to going upstairs (stand B28).

Aquarius IT is showcasing ClockWatcher (tachograph instant analysis software) plus new ESIGN technology, which captures drivers’ signatures digitally on infringement documentation. Visitors can see live demos of ClockWatcher, which for over 10 years has helped operators simplify the process of analysing tachograph data for Drivers' Hours Law (DHL) and Road Transport Directive (RTD) (stand L14).

Continental Automotive is exhibiting the latest generation digital tachograph, remote data downloading, telematics, ProViu ASL 360 surround camera technology, Driver’s Workplace and much more (stand L35).

Nemesis is promoting Brodit Device Holders, Pure Highway 300Di DAB Adaptor, and JustDrive DAB Adaptor. They will also be showcasing the new TomTom Bridge, where best-in class navigation and business applications come together (stand T79).

Peplink is launching an innovative high speed IP connectivity solution for bus, coach and light rail operators that unlocks new services. The product, Pepwave Max Transit offers LTE powered connectivity for operators with lowest CapEX to support enhanced operational benefits and revenue generating services (stand T75).

21st Century Technology is exhibiting the company's newly acquired Passenger Information division for the first time, introducing a range of off-vehicle technology to complement the existing On-vehicle Systems division. New solutions include real-time passenger information displays, smart ticketing and mobile passenger information (stand T46).

Co-Star is showcasing the latest 4G Wireless Router technologies designed for public transport applications to provide everything from passenger WiFi to improved scheduling, together with its new panel mounted USB chargers, which provide passengers the facility to charge their smartphone and tablet devices (stand C 25).

ByteToken has just announced that it has been selected to deliver mobile ticketing for One-Ticket. The service will offer convenient ticketing for passengers, with a seamless experience throughout Edinburgh and East Central Scotland. The App will provide tickets for 30+ operators; including First, Lothian buses and Stagecoach – coming early 2016 (stand T24).

Nemesis is promoting Brodit Device Holders, Pure Highway 300Di DAB Adaptor, and JustDrive DAB Adaptor. They will also be showcasing the new TomTom Bridge, where best-in class navigation and business applications come together (stand T79).

The Idrive X2 is an Event Recorder incorporating event and continuous recording. Available upgrade options, include live GPS tracking with 5-second look-in capability and memory storage up to 64GB. Idrive allows the option to self-manage videos and data in-house or pay for review services (stand T77).

Metric Group is presenting its latest range of DDA-inspired fixed and portable ITSO certified ticketing devices, including the METRIC.optima bl, with optional large colour touch screen and ergonomic passenger interface; the newly released METRIC.POS handheld ETM with integrated 3G communications; and the innovative browser-accessed back office cloud solution (stand T22).

MiX Telematics Europe is launching the brand new MyMiX app at the show. MyMiX is an innovative driver engagement platform that further enables its customers to run safer and more efficient fleet operations (stand T4).

Ticketer has built on its innovative solution with its next generation of Electronic Ticket Machines; significantly increasing the speed of its remote ITSO top-ups and greatly enhancing its hosting capabilities. The already market-leading ETM now comes with upgraded performance, improved printer function and optional EMV reader and QR code-scanner (stand T60).

MiniCasp is promoting its comprehensive, digital booking management system. They’ll be talking to operators who currently use manual admin systems as well as ones who use online systems, about how they can help increase productivity and reduce admin time with new, simple-to-use system features. They are also launching a new iPhone app at the show (stand T3).

Zeta Automotive is the designer and manufacturer of EconoSpeed Connect, its new acceleration and speed limiting device for 2015. EconoSpeed Connect automatically adjusts acceleration for optimum engine performance, reducing fuel consumption and cutting CO2 emissions. Designed specifically for commercial fleets, this autonomous device requires no driver interaction, saving time, money and maximising results (stand T72).

ICA Traffic GmbH is demonstrating the efficiency and service provided by its TSI-certified stationary ticket vending machine DUALIS 2000 TSI. Its high-performance back office System DUALIS Dimas features more integration direct into partner systems and new monitoring functions; including inventory and order management (stand K40).

GreenRoad Technologies, a leading provider of driver behaviour and fleet management solutions for bus and coach fleets in the UK, is exhibiting its market-leading SaaS systems. Their latest innovation is an in-vehicle video solution that makes it easier for fleet managers to investigate liability claims for vehicle damage and passenger injuries. It provides valuable evidence that sheds light on safety events and alleged safety events, as well as direction for future driving behaviour (stand L3).

Business services & training

The Manchester College is promoting new bus and coach master technician and bid and coach advanced technician technical training courses, aimed at workshop technicians in the bus and coach industry. As part of the course they offer Irtec advanced and master technician accreditation for the candidates; they are the only further education college in the UK to offer this (stand C2).

Coach & Bus Live 2015 sees the launch of the IRTE Skills Challenge 2016, an annual competition aimed at finding the best bus and coach technicians and apprentices from across the UK and Ireland. With a new look and more competitors than ever, the 2016 event promises to be the best yet (stand C19).

Schools Transport Management Systems is showcasing its new developments for bus operators and local authorities at the show. These include: AutoMate – low-cost (sub £500) handheld ticketing terminals with cash and smartcard (electronic purse) functionalities; ITMS – Online Transport Operations Management System, including booking, dispatch and auction functionalities; and STAR – electronic student register with online manifest and vehicle tracking for operators, schools and parents (stand F5).

Celebrating 40 years of specialist service to passenger transport, Wrightsure Insurance Group is showcasing an AEC Reliance Plaxton Panorama Elite owned by Thornes Independent. Representing the big hitter of the day, and the very best of 1975 coaching, ‘TEC599N’ is joining Wrightsure to highlight how far they've come (stand E25).

Landmark Finance is launching a new lease product at Coach & Bus Live 2015. The new Wrightbus Streetlite 8.8m is available from £308.00 + vat per week (offer subject to acceptance, terms and conditions apply). Celebrating 6 years as independent finance brokers, Landmark Finance has access to a wide panel of funders enabling them to offer flexible finance solutions to meet individual requirements (stand A10).

Stoke Park Finance is promoting its HP and leasing products, as well as more recently introduced contract hire and invoice discounting facilities. They will also be providing finance industry updates, to help ensure asset finance choices are tax efficient in light of pending budget changes (stand E2).

TruTac is showcasing its PSV specific tachograph analysis product TruControlPSV (with enhanced new features and 10 new reports), plus a range of compliance products. These include TruLicence for driving licence checks, TruChecks for daily driver walk around checks, and TruTime for time and attendance management verified against tachograph records (stand T58).

Licencecheck is promoting its real-time driving licence checking service, with a new e-consent solution that links directly to the DVLA Access to Driver Data Service. The solution confirms driving licence validity, entitlement, disqualifications, suspensions and endorsements in seconds, and thereafter manages all alerts, rechecks and notifications to administrators (stand T68).

Uniform branding company Pride & Joy Clothing is bringing selfie-entertainment to the show. They’ll be exhibiting – what they do best – all types of uniform, workwear and coach accessories. Visitors are invited to bring a wig and use the hashtag #bcbphotofriday for their chance to win (stand A14).

CurrencyTech, one of the largest cash handling equipment and service supplier in the UK, is showcasing a small, compact, automated cash deposit system – CTL CASH SAFE-TS, designed for the smaller bus depot. Specialising in equipment to make the handling and counting of both notes and coin more efficient, CurrencyTech offers a range of cash deposit systems for busy transport environments (stand F28).

With the DfT’s Green bus fund bids to the Office for Low Emission Vehicles (OLEV)fast approaching its deadline, Gas Bus Alliance will be discussing how well the UK’s gas buses hold up against other low carbon emission options. Visitors can find out more about infrastructure grants, pay-back periods, gas supply and operational costs at the show (stand G14).

Backhouse Jones Solicitors is a leading firm of transport solicitors, which has built an unrivalled reputation representing the bus and coach industry. They’ll be giving away free Doubledeckers at the show, and discussing how to avoid expensive legal bills by joining their BACK UP subscription scheme in collaboration with the CPT. The cost of the scheme starts at less than the price of a chocolate bar (from 26p per day) with no calories (stand K15).

Coach Hire Booking (CHB), the Accrington-based managed coach travel service provider, has announced its purchase of airline diversion onward travel specialist Flight Delay Services (FDS) from Arriva in a deal which concluded on 1 May (stand G22).

WTS Just Coach Drivers is now introducing WTS Term Contract Coach Drivers, a new recruitment solution to help with driver shortages. Del Haggerty will be at the show, talking with operators about their requirements for the winter and the whole of next season (stand L27).

Resorts World Express has been contracted by Resorts World Birmingham to implement their transportation marketing strategy, via coaches and rail for groups and individuals. The program will market exclusive packages, including round-trip transportation via coach or rail, along with a voucher booklet featuring offers and discounts (stand D38).

New exhibitor Technoframe LLP is showcasing its latest range of vehicle advertising solutions; including high quality framing systems, backlit illumination technology, E-paper destination displays, E-paper timetables and real-time signage (stand K30).

QGate’s first time at Coach & Bus Live is set to be an exciting one, bringing the power of their technology to the show. With interactive demonstrations and experts at hand, visitors can experience the true benefits of business intelligence, marketing automation and CRM.

Coach & Bus Live returns to the NEC Birmingham on 30 September-1 October. For more information and to register for a free trade pass to Coach & Bus Live 2015, please visit www.coachandbuslive.com/register-to-attend.

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Media enquiries & press pass request to:

Please apply for press accreditation via – www.onlineregistration.co.uk/shows/coachandbus/15/regpress.php
Emma-Louise Jones, Head of PR
t: +44 (0)1273 645134
e: ejones@divcom.co.uk
Website: www.divcom.co.uk
Twitter: www.twitter.com/DiversifiedUK

Event Director:

Helen Conway
t: 01926 455269
e: hconway@divcom.co.uk

Exhibitor sales enquiries to:

Martin Laverton, Group Sales Manager
t: 01733 405735
e: mlaverton@divcom.co.uk
Website: www.coachandbuslive.com
Twitter: www.twitter.com/coach_buslive