Capital Area Transit System

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Busline Transit Feature Capital Area Transit System

Baton Rouge

CEO Bob Mirabito 0515Busline.FINAL_Layout 1 5/1/15 8:09 AM Page 2

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MAY/JUNE 2015 Published by Rankin Publishing, Inc. www.buslinemag.com MAGAZINE IN THIS ISSUE Premier Coach Co. Provides Luxury Motorcoach Service In Northeast...... 8 Capital Area Transit System Serving 430,000 In Baton Rouge & Beyond ...... 18

Busline’s Buyers Guide To Software Systems...... 34

Busline’s Buyers Guide To Brakes & Tires ...... 37 CTAA Expo 2015 Set For May 31 Through June 5 In Tampa.....50

Busline Vehicle Showcase: RAPID RESPONSE ...... Page 6 ALTERNATIVE FUEL & INDUSTRY NEWS...... Page 43 ON THE COVER: Premier Coach Company General Manager Randy HYBRID VEHICLES Charlebois stands in front of one of their Temsa TS 35 motorcoaches. He and 46 - 49 his father, Ron Charlebois, are co-owners of the Vermont-based company. See page 8. CONTENTS CALENDAR OF EVENTS EDITORIAL & CORPORATE OFFICES MAY 2015 JULY 2015 OCTOBER 2015 May 30 - June 3 July 18-22 October 4-7 Rankin Publishing Co., Inc. Canadian Urban National School APTA Don Rankin and Linda Rankin, Publishers Transit Association Transportation Association Annual Meeting (CUTA) (NSTA) Annual Meeting San Francisco, CA 204 E. Main Street • P.O. Box 130 Annual Conference & Convention Info: 202-496-4800 Arcola, IL 61910-0130, USA Winnipeg, MB Minneapolis, MN Email: [email protected] Info: 416-365-9800 Info: 703-684-3200 JANUARY 2016 Website: www.rankinpublishing.com January 9-12 (800) 598-8083 (U.S.) • (217) 268-4959 May 31 - June 5 AUGUST 2015 American Bus Fax: (217) 268-4815 Community August 4-6 Association (ABA) Transportation International Motorcoach Marketplace Association of America Group (IMG) Strategic Louisville, KY Editorial: Harrell Kerkhoff, Editor (CTAA) Expo 2015 Alliance Meeting Info: 202-842-1645 Rick Mullen, Associate Editor Tampa, FL Verona, NY Design: David Opdyke Info: 800-891-0590 Info: 888-447-3466 January 31 - February 4 Reception: Misty Douglas United Motorcoach SEPTEMBER 2015 Association (UMA) Advertising September 28-30 Motorcoach Expo BusCon 2015 Atlanta, GA Contact Kevin Kennedy @ 623-434-8959

Indianapolis, IN Info: 800-424-8262 Email: [email protected] I Info: 800-576-8788 Or

Busline Magazine is published 6 times a year by Rankin Publishing, Inc., 204 E. Main, P.O. Box 130, Arcola, IL 61910-0130. Don Rankin @ 800-598-8083 Publisher assumes no liability whatsoever for content of any advertisement or editorial material contained herein. Copyright 2015 Rankin Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form without written con- Fax: 217-268-4815 sent of Rankin Publishing, Inc. Subscription Rates in United States: 6 issues $25. Single Copy rate: $10 including postage/handling; Email: [email protected] Buyer’s Guide $15 including postage/handling. International rates: 6 issue annual Air Mail Subscription $60 U.S. dollars net

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IN AN INDUSTRY THAT VALUES QUALITY, IT’S NICE TO BE NUMBER ONE.

The coaches we build are designed to win accolades from passengers. But we were especially proud to learn that Prevost recently ranked ﬁrst in seated coach sales. It’s proof that our industry is increasingly committed to passenger comfort, convenience and safety. And it afﬁrms our dedication to building coaches that deliver the superior quality that tour operators need in today’s competitive marketplace.

www.prevostcar.com 0515Busline.FINAL_Layout 1 5/1/15 8:10 AM Page 6

MAY/JUNE 2015 Published by Rankin Publishing, Inc. www.buslinemag.com MAGAZINE

Relational Bus Systems Motorcoach Manager Sys2K 28 29 30 Distinctive Systems busHive American Trans-Data, Corp. (ATD) 31 32 30 Busline Buyers Guide To Software Systems 34

Motor Coach Industries ..46

ABC Companies ...... 47 Champion Bus ...... 48 Nova Bus...... 49 Glaval Bus...... 49

Company Website Page # Company Website Page #

Alexander Dennis www.alexanderdennis.com 13 LaFrance Industries www.mvmills.com/lafranceindustries 21 Altro Transflor www.altrotransflor.com 20 Marathon Brake Systems www.MarathonBrake.com 38 American Cooling Technology, Inc.www.actusa.us.com 25 Midwest Bus Corporation www.midwestbus.com 14 American Trans-Data, Corp. www.americantransdata.com 33 Mile-X www.mile-x.com 42 Atlantic Detroit Diesel-Allison www.atlanticdda.com 16 Motor Coach Industries (MCI) www.mcicoach.com 2 Bauer’s Intelligent Transportation www.bauerscertifiedpreowned.com 26 Motorcoach Manager www.motorcoachmanager.com 29 Bitzer www.bitzerus.com 12 Motorcoach Tire Sales.com www.motorcoachtiresales.com 39 Bridgestone www.bridgestonefirestonemileagesales.com 37 Prevost Car www.prevostcar.com 5, 56 busHive www.bushive.com 32 Protective Insurance Company www.protectiveinsurance.com 17 Champion Bus Inc. www.championbus.com 3 Relational Bus Systems www.rbs2000.com 28 Chestnut Ridge Foam www.chestnutridgefoam.com 40 Safety Step www.safetystep.net 42 Complete Coach Works www.completecoach.com 27 Service Insurance www.serviceins.com 41 Crosspoint Kinetics crosspointkinetixs.com 11 Sutrak www.sutrakusa.com 23 CTAA www.ctaa.org/expo 51 Sys2K www.sys2k.com 30 Diamond Manufacturing www.diamondmfg.com 41 TEMSA www.temsa.com 7 Distinctive Systems www.distinctive-systems.com 31 Turtle Top www.turtletop.com 15 Dixie Electric Ltd. www.dixie-electric.com 44 Vanner Power www.vanner.com 22 Freightliner www.freightlinerchassis.com 9 VDO www.vdoroadlog.com 10 Handi-Hut, Inc. www.handi-hut.com 45 Willingham Inc. www.willinghaminc.com 24 Read or Download Complete Issues Of Busline Magazine Online At: www.buslinemag.com

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Since its founding in 1992 with two buses, Premier Coach Com -

pany, of Milton, VT, quickly grew to be an important regional play- er in the motorcoach industry. The company now serves riders in

Vermont; New Hampshire; upstate New York and New York City, and parts of Massachusetts, including Boston.

hen my father, Ron Charlebois, started the company, his goal was to fill the need for Wluxury motorcoach transportation in Vermont, as there weren’t many carriers here at the

time,” said Premier General Manager Randy Charlebois, during a recent interview with Busline Magazine. “He began with two coaches, and put an aggressive growth model in place to ensure the company would have two coaches for just a short time. “In 2004, I took over the general manager position. We have now have 71 coaches in our fleet. My father and I are co-owners of the company. He also runs our Freightliner truck dealership, R.R. Charlebois, Inc., and I oversee Premier Coach. My father plays an instrumental role Premier Coach General Manager Randy Charlebois, left, and in major decisions his father, Ron Charlebois, right, are co-owners of the company. for Premier Coach, Ron Charlebois founded Premier Coach in 1992. such as purchasing T coaches, but does not take part in the day-to-day aspects of the company. We have lunch daily to discuss matters concerning both businesses.” Premier Coach’s headquarters in Milton is the central location for all of the company’s booking, major maintenance and operations. Milton is minutes from Burlington, VT, a metro area on the eastern shore of Lake Champlain where about one-third of Vermont’s

total population lives, according to 2012 U.S. Census estimates. Milton is about 45 miles south of the U.S./Canadian border. Premier Coach has two other locations in Vermont, one in Saint Johnsbury and one in Rutland. The Saint Johnsbury location services northeastern Vermont and upstate New Hampshire. The Rutland facility services central and southern Vermont into northern Premier Coach Co. Massachusetts, as well as parts of western New York, including Albany, NY. The company’s Warner, NH, office services sever- Provides Luxury al markets, including Manchester and Concord in New Hampshire and Boston, MA. In Potsdam, NY, Premier Coach’s facility has a Motorcoach strong focus on serving several colleges and universi- ties, as well as charter work in upstate New York. Many of the areas Premier Coach services are Service In prime tourist destinations, both to view the colorful autumn foliage and to ski in the wintertime. “One disadvantage of being located in the upper Northeast northeast is the proximity of the Canadian border,” Charlebois said. “Although there is free trade, we are landlocked in a sense because the motorcoach indus-

By Rick Mullen, Busline Magazine Associate Editor try in Canada is much more regulated. Therefore,

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Learn more about our products and services on our YouTube channel. 0515Busline.FINAL_Layout 1 5/1/15 8:10 AM Page 10

U.S. companies tend not to operate in Canada, and, likewise, Canadian been successful, as it has allowed some of the smaller tour operators in operators tend to not come into the United States.” Vermont and New Hampshire to partner with Premier Coach.” Indeed, some local tour companies have exclusive contracts with I Want My Wi-Fi Premier Coach, Charlebois said. One of Premier Coach’s foundational philosophies is to strive to con- remier Coach’s primary focus is its charter bus service. Charters tinually exceed the expectations of customers. One way the company for athletic teams, both at the college and high school level, accomplishes this goal is to consistently seek to be on the cutting edge of Paccount for about 65 percent of the company’s charter business, technology when it comes to its fleet and other operations. To help cus- according to Charlebois. tomers enjoy what Charlebois calls the “Premier Coach experience,” the “We service 20 colleges throughout our service area,” Charlebois said. company has outfitted its coaches with the latest amenities. ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ “During the past year, we have added some fixed-route service that we are “I think the future is very bright in terms of the public’s desire to offering as ‘d.b.a. Vermont Translines.’ travel on motorcoaches,” Charlebois said. “Many carriers have “We have never had a strong focus on the tour market. One of our stepped up their games to make motorocoach travel a much more ful- philosophies is we don’t want to compete with some of our best cus- filling experience than it ever was before. There are so many things for tomers, so we have chosen to stay out of creating tours. This strategy has passengers to do while riding in a coach. They don’t have to just sit for five or six hours trying to hold a conversation ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ with the person next to them. Now, passengers can participate in activities they do in their homes with iPads, laptop computers, etc. This makes the experience of motorcoach travel far ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ “ more enjoyable for many people.” No more messy logs... In the song, “Money for Nothing,” by the ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ it is a nice, easy to understand British rock band Dire Straits, there is a repeated lyric, “I want my MTV.” When the song was ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ format…and RoadLog catches released in the mid-1980s, the cable television the violations as well.” channel MTV was still relatively new and the line, “I want my MTV,” became a meme of the Ï Ï Ï Ï Ï Ï Ï Ï Ï Ï Ï Ï Ï Ï Ï Ï ÏÏ generation growing up watching music videos. Perhaps if Dire Straits wrote that song today, the lyric would be, “I want my Wi-Fi,” as it is the amenity that seems to mean the most to a majority of Premier Coach’s customers. “The college athletic portion of our business is the one that demands Wi-Fi the most, in addi- John Coakley tion to outlets allowing passengers to charge Manager of Operations and Safety phones,” Charlebois said. Klein Transportation, Inc. Late last year, Premier Coach was in the process of upgrading its Wi-Fi system. During www.vdoroadlog.com that time, a customer relayed to the company the need for a coach with Wi-Fi for an upcoming trip. “We told that customer we were in the VDO RoadLog is a complete compliance reporting process of changing our Wi-Fi system and it solution that eliminates handwritten log books and should be done in time for the trip. The cus- automates your “back end” for HOS, IFTA and IRP tomer replied, ‘You don’t understand. We don’t reporting. And, unlike other ELD systems, RoadLog care what it costs, you have to make sure there is available with no contract and no monthly fees. is Wi-Fi in the bus.’ For some customers, Wi- Fi has almost become more important than RoadLog automatically keeps an accurate, up to the bus itself.” date record of driving time, so drivers can focus on Charlebois explained that team sports charter passengers. And, RoadLog provides an instant log customers desire Wi-Fi to allow students to printout that shows complete HOS & DVIR data – remain engaged in their school activities and roadside inspections have never been faster. studies while on the road. The company’s more than $100,000 investment in an upgraded Wi-Fi Visit www.vdoroadlog.com to hear testimonials from system late last year is indicative of its commit- real RoadLog users and to nd out where to get yours. ment to think ahead and, anticipate what will be needed to keep customers coming back, Charlebois said. Another “must” in the interior of a modern motorcoach important to Premier Coach’s customers is seat belts. Offering buses with three- point seat belts before pending regulations Call: (855)-ROADLOG demand it is another way the company antici- Visit: www.vdoroadlog.com pates and embraces new technologies and

VDO and RoadLog – Trademarks of the Continental Corporation E-mail: [email protected] amenities before customers begin to demand ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ them, Charlebois said. Ï Ï Ï Ï Ï Ï ÏÏ Page 10 BUSLINE May/June 2015 0515Busline.FINAL_Layout 1 5/1/15 8:10 AM Page 11

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thought of the things they may want or need in a bus. I think if we continue to do this going forward, it will help us remain a viable entity for many years to come.”

‘Green’ Travel In The Green Mountain State

n addition to Wi-Fi and seat belts on its motorcoaches, other modern technologies have played a key role in IPremier Coach’s mission to offer customers the best traveling experience. The company’s GPS tracking system, not only allows for real time tracking of vehicles, but also performs critical engine diagnostics.

Premier Coach’s management team includes, left to right, Service Manager Gerrit Desranleau, Sales Manager and Assitant General Manager Chip Desautels, General Manager and Vice President Randy Charlebois, Safety and Compliance Manager Sean Geraghty and Operations Manager Bob Young.

“I think the GPS system’s engine diagnostic feature helps “Our customers think seat belts are important, so we have made differentiate Premier Coach because it enables us to respond to potential sure the new coaches we have purchased are outfitted with three- problems before they actually occur. We receive alerts that say the batter- point seat belts. We are finding more and more contract renewals ies are running low or the voltage is low. Such information allows us to requiring seat belts, Wi-Fi and outlets in the coach. We are trying to have a conversation with the driver, and many times head off a problem.” be proactive rather than reactive to new developments. Charlebois described another scenario where the GPS system’s live “We wanted to be there with Wi-Fi service before customers had to tracking capabilities could help in the event of a motorcoach breaking ask. We want customers to look at our company and think, ‘They are down on the road. on their game. We didn’t even know about (a particular amenity) and “Motorcoaches are pieces of equipment and, unfortunately, every com- they have it.’ pany experiences breakdowns,” he said. “The same is true for seat belts. When it becomes mandatory, we do not In his example, a motorcoach full of passengers breaks down on a trip. want to be in a position where we must retrofit everything. We want cus- With the capability to track all of its 71 buses in real time, in this scenario, tomers to view Premier Coach as a progressive company that has already the company can see there is another of its coaches traveling through the

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There are some other technologies and efficiencies built into our facility. We have an area where we store up to 15 buses. The storage area is heated with waste oil furnaces. We are able to use the waste oil that our buses produce to heat our building, rather than it just being a chemical that needs to be shipped out. “These are some technologies that aren’t often thought of from a Premier Coach’s office staff members include, left to right, bus perspective, but Operations Assistant Dani Pillsbury, Dispatch Supervisor they have helped us Glenn Brassard and Dispatch Supervisor Joel Fay. to be a greener company, and to have a competitive edge when it comes to selling ourselves same area that is empty. The empty motorcoach is then able to quickly to a customer.” pick up the stranded passengers and take them on their way. The result is Since the company’s inception, maintaining a modern fleet has been the situation gets handled quickly, with as little inconvenience to the pas- one of its foundational principles. Part of this effort has also involved sengers as possible. finding the right type of motorcoaches that company officials believe will “We are able to see some synergies and efficiencies by having that be the best fit to accomplish the company’s goals. tracking system available to us,” Charlebois said. “Furthermore, it allows Until recently, the company had primarily 45-foot coaches in its fleet. us to look at our fleet and see areas where we can improve. We explored For many years company officials sought to purchase smaller coaches to such issues as decreasing idling to have a better green thumbprint on the meet some specific needs, and to augment its fleet of larger luxury motor- world. We talked to our drivers and worked on decreasing emissions. We coaches. buy new equipment, so the emissions are already very low, but, at the “Since 1995, we had tried to find a smaller vehicle that would fit some same time, a vehicle that is turned off definitely has zero emissions. of the transportation needs of smaller groups,” Charlebois said. “Some of “We teach operators to drive a little differently. Today’s motor- the college athletic groups we transport, such as a tennis team, for exam- coaches do not drive like they did 15 years ago. If you teach a driver ple, don’t need a 45-foot bus. how to accelerate properly, the vehicle is going to get better fuel “Even more today, smaller groups tend to not want a large bus. We real- mileage, which results in burning less fuel.” ly tried to find a vehicle that would fit that smaller niche group. Premier Coach’s commitment to operating modern equipment and “We tried several different versions of coaches over the past 15 years embracing new technologies also extends beyond the motorcoaches. For or so and never found one that we thought really met the needs of both example, when the company constructed its facility five years ago, it ourselves, and the customer. We wanted a smaller coach that would ben- installed a rainwater collection system. efit us from a maintenance and durability standpoint, and one that had a “All the rain that falls on the roof is collected in a 10,000-gallon big coach feel.” tank outside,” Charlebois said. “We use that water to wash coaches. Recently, Premier Coach purchased 10 new 35-foot TS 35 Temsa

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cles must travel. Vermont isn’t called “The Green Mountain” state for nothing. Vermont, and areas in upstate New York and New Hampshire, contain mountainous regions. Charlebois said their Temsa coaches have large enough engines with enough power to negotiate the hills and mountains in the company’s service area. “The Temsas’ components are on the same scale as large, full-sized coaches,” Charlebois said. “Also, we operate in an area where a large amount of salt and brine are put on the roads in the winter. The Temsa motorcoaches’ stainless steel structure is able to withstand the salt and brine far better than a steel structure. We were quite pleased when we saw the stainless steel construction. “Temsa has been great throughout the entire process. Premier Coach’s sales team includes, left to right, Charter Sales Our customers have given us Reprensentative Cindy Allen, Charter Sales Reprensentative very good feedback and, most Dottie Gilbar and Charter Sales Supervisor Annemarie Elder. importantly, our drivers like the vehicle and they are helping to sell it to our clients.” Charlebois said driver participation in a company’s deci- motorcoaches that company officials and drivers feel is the smaller type sion making when purchasing vehicles is an important part of the process coach the company has been seeking for many years. The process began that is often overlooked. when Temsa dropped off a demo motorcoach at Premier Coach for the “Drivers are the people who are in front of customers. They can very company to check out. Company officials were skeptical that this would quickly decide they don’t like a vehicle, and are not going to work hard be another exercise in futility. to sell it to customers,” Charlebois said. “On the other hand, when driv- “Once we put the Temsa up on a lift and looked it over, it became ers like a vehicle and feel it is going to meet their needs, they tend to apparent very quickly it was the vehicle that we had been seeking,” be very good about selling it to customers.” Charlebois said. “With its stainless steel construction, we found it had In the case of Temsas, for example, the approval of Premier Coach’s that big coach feel, but in a smaller package.” drivers was the tipping point. Another consideration in the search for a smaller motorcoach was the “Several of our drivers gave us overwhelmingly positive feedback terrain and the long, snowy winters through which Premier Coach’s vehi- before we made the purchase,” Charlebois said. “We said, ‘OK, this is a

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vehicle our drivers are going to help us sell to customers, which is vital- road, he or she will find there is no slippage as far as cleanliness goes,” ly important.’ It was at this point we said, ‘Let’s move forward and pur- Charlebois said. “Our drivers do their part to ensure that this is the case. chase a number of these coaches.’” Our drivers and our motorcoaches are two things customers see on a day- to-day basis. Also, potential customers see our vehicles everyday. A ‘Sparkling’ First Impression Anybody who sees our coaches could be a potential customer. “We want our vehicles to reflect properly who we are and what we do. he high-tech amenities and features inside a motorcoach could all We take great pride in how we keep our vehicles and the graphic scheme be overlooked by passengers if the outside of the bus is damaged that is on our motorcoaches. It all is one big package. We want customers Tor dirty. In selling Premier Coach to the riding public, the low- and potential clients to see us as a professional company. We think we tech operation that happens in the wash bay is extremely important, have achieved this goal.” Charlebois said. “Once the sales process is done internally, the only thing the customer ‘Rogue’ Operators Present Challenge ever sees is our driver and our motorcoach,” Charlebois said. “Therefore, it is immensely important to have a vehicle that meets and exceeds cus- ne of the challenges Premier Coach faces in offering the best tomers’ expectations.” motorcoach experience to customers is the presence of what In addition to keeping its vehicles clean, Premier Coach is committed OCharlebois calls “rogue” carriers. These are companies that play to repairing any damage to a coach, whether it is the company’s fault or fast and loose with rules and regulations governing the industry, he said. not. “A majority of carriers do a very, very good job in this industry, but “Very few of our customers come to our facility to see who we are, there are some that continually defy the rules,” Charlebois said. “They are although we definitely invite them to visit,” Charlebois said. “The major- companies that don’t want to follow rules, or perform proper maintenance ity of the public sees our vehicles, and, as many have said, they are rolling on their vehicles, and we must compete with them. Unfortunately, some billboards. The appearance of our motorcoaches is probably the best form of them are pretty good at sales. They can sell the customer on something of advertising that we could possibly have. From my perspective, to not that they will not actually deliver. Rogue carriers are one of the largest have a coach looking 100 percent is a failure on my part. Our clean- difficulties we face. ers know very well that when people see our coaches, these vehicles “We pride ourselves on following the rules and performing the proper have to sparkle.” maintenance on our vehicles. When regulations say a driver can only Once on the road, it is the drivers who must make the commitment to drive 10 hours, that means 10 hours, not 10 hours and 25 minutes. keep their vehicles clean. This is a task that Premier Coach’s operators “To comply, on longer trips we use relief drivers, where a rogue oper- perform at a high rate of efficiency, and one for which Charlebois gives ator might not. Sometimes we have to explain to a customer that there is them praise. a $300 difference in our price compared to a rogue company’s, because “I’m confident that when a person steps on one of our buses on the Continued On Page 40

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CHANGE HAS BEEN A CONSTANT COMPANION FOR PUBLIC TRANS- PORTATION IN BATON ROUGE, LA. FROM THE USE OF MULE- DRIVEN TROLLEY CARS IN THE 1880S, TO AN HISTORIC CIVIL RIGHTS BUS BOYCOTT IN 1953, TO A MAJOR ROUTE EXPANSION IN 2014 — PUBLIC TRANSPORTA- TION’S TRANSFORMATION HAS BEEN SIGNIFICANT IN THE STATE CAPITAL OF LOUISIANA.

By Harrell Kerkhoff Busline Magazine Editor 0515Busline.FINAL_Layout 1 5/1/15 8:10 AM Page 19

Today, Capital Area Transit System (CATS) services an area in and To end the boycott, Baton Rouge leaders agreed to a compromise, around Baton Rouge that encompasses 296 square miles and has a popu- according to the African-American Registry. It stipulated that the two lation of approximately 430,000 people. side front seats of buses were to be reserved for white people, while the “CATS mainly serves an urban area. Baton Rouge is located in East long rear seat was for African-Americans. The remaining seats on each Baton Rouge Parish, the most populated parish in the state,” CATS Chief bus were to be occupied on a first-come-first-served basis. The local Executive Officer Bob Mirabito said. “Our vehicles made 3.9 million African-American community agreed to the compromise, and the boy- trips in 2014 and covered 2.9 million miles. This involves a lot of urban cott ended on June 25, 1953. sprawl. There are routes here that are 15 to 20 miles long. Although the Baton Rouge boycott lasted just two weeks, it set in “The challenge of covering the Baton Rouge area is that our service motion important protest standards, and is recognized as a precedent-set- region is very spread out, and absent of a traditional grid system in sever- ting event in the history of the modern American civil rights movement. al places. Our streets don’t always run strictly north/south and east/west. It was used as a model for the Montgomery, AL, Bus Boycott of 1955- Many of them meander.” 1956, led by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks and other famous Along with a staff of approximately 250 employees, there are around 87 civil rights leaders of the day. vehicles operated by CATS. This fleet includes 68 transit “This is a very historic and interesting piece of history buses that are all 35 feet in length, 15 passenger vans and 4 for Baton Rouge, and our transit system,” Mirabito said. specialty trolleys. “A whirlwind As time moved along, other changes occurred with Meanwhile, the CATS “On Demand” paratransit service of expansion public transportation in the Baton Rouge area. In May is provided by a third-party operator. Vehicles for this serv- 1998, the current CATS administrative, maintenance and ice are owned by CATS, which also provides the mainte- has already transfer facility was built in the city. The passenger trans- nance. taken place at fer facility features waiting areas, information and cus- “(The contractor) uses its own drivers and call center for CATS, a real tomer support, and passenger loading areas for 18 buses. ‘On Demand,’ which averages 6,000 to 7,000 rides per transformation. CATS began operating buses 7 days a week, 363 days month,” Mirabito said. “CATS recently received certifica- a year in 1999. Extended hours were added, with some tion as a Medicaid transport provider. Overall, we have seen I tell people, routes operating late into the evening. Another significant an expansion take place with paratransit. A significant num- however, that year for the transit system was 2005, when CATS became ber of corridors have been added. It’s a good deal for those we are only a political subdivision of the state of Louisiana. who qualify and use the service. It’s hard to beat door-to- in the ﬁrst “Prior to 2005, CATS was operated by East Baton door transportation.” Rouge Parish (of which Baton Rouge is the parish seat). Mirabito outlined three specific goals that officials quarter of a When the state legislature established our transit system involved with CATS are working on for the future, when it four quarter as a political subdivision, this meant CATS became a comes to the overall public transportation system. Each of game. There is regional transit authority for not only East Baton Rouge the three are essential to the transit system improving serv- Parish, but seven other parishes in the area as well,” ice and ridership for the coming years. They are: a lot of work Mirabito said. n Upgrading an aging fleet of vehicles; here that still The East Baton Rouge Parish Council still appoints the n Making further investments in technology within the needs to be nine CATS board commissioners, and has a say in fares transit agency; and, done.” and the transit system’s route structure. n Improving the overall infrastructure at CATS, including In 2012, voters in Baton Rouge and nearby Baker, LA, possible upgrades and/or changes to the transit system’s — CATS CEO approved a property tax measure for dedicated funding. headquarters and other locations. Bob Mirabito This is good for a 10-year period, ending in 2022. “The ultimate goal is to provide the best service possible Due to this passage, officials at CATS were able to for all of our customers, including new choice riders. A expand the transit system’s service. In March 2014, 19 of whirlwind of expansion has already taken place at CATS, a real transfor- the 20 bus routes had changes implemented, and 10 additional routes mation,” Mirabito said. “I tell people, however, that we are only in the first were added. Five transit hubs are now used to improve efficiency and quarter of a four quarter game. There is a lot of work here that still needs shorten ride times for these routes. to be done.” “Our route expansion officially went into effect on March 30, 2014. We also added 70 new bus operators with the help of MV Transportation Changing With The Times (based in Dallas, TX), that we partnered with to complement our exist- lthough it has been given different names over the years, CATS’ ing staff,” Mirabito said. “We have added one additional route since the legacy goes back to at least 1881. At its beginning, mule-driven initial expansion, and a couple more should be running by the middle of Atrolley cars operated as the Baton Rouge Street Railroad 2015. Our goal is to have 33 bus routes.” Company. Eleven years later, the Capital Railway and Lighting Company The expansion has also resulted in increased ridership, according to was born. Rather than mule-driven trolleys, the first electric cars were Mirabito. used to transport Baton Rougeans around town. “I feel there has been a pretty significant increase in ridership thus Through the years, CATS has evolved from a private business to a far,” Mirabito said. “I know that Baton Rouge is pretty ‘car-centric.’ It’s political subdivision of the state of Louisiana, created by a special act of hard to get people out of their vehicles here and try public transportation. the Louisiana state legislature. Its official name has changed from the Therefore, we are happy with our ridership improvement.” Baton Rouge Bus Company to Metro Transit to the present day Capital The current CATS service region is predominantly within the Baton Area Transit System. Rouge city limits. Bus transportation in Baton Rouge took center stage on a national “In the past we used the traditional (route) system, where there was scale in 1953. This was the year of the Baton Rouge Bus Boycott. It was one main hub at our main terminal, and routes were extended in differ- the first bus boycott in America by African-Americans, according to the ent directions. The problem was, it could take a bus three hours to go African-American Registry, a non-profit educational organization. from one side of Baton Rouge to the other,” Mirabito said. “With the The boycott was led by Rev. T.J. Jemison, a local pastor, with the goal expansion, the process of transferring buses is a lot easier for riders, and of ending seating requirements placed on African-American people, helps people use more direct routes. The change has allowed CATS to cut while using Baton Rouge transit buses. passenger travel time by approximately 35 to 40 percent.”

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“I came from private industry in 2013. My focus has always been, ‘If we don’t have a customer, we don’t have a bus company.’

Therefore, we have introduced some things to improve our customer service focus. This includes employee incentives.”

— CATS CEO Bob Mirabito

Shown, left to right, are Capital Area Transit System COO William DeVille; CEO Bob Mirabito; and CFO Conner Burns.

CATS officials are trying to make better use of the transit system’s var- idents without access to private vehicles. ious hubs located throughout the service area, as well as add future sites. One option to help eliminate “food deserts,” Mirabito added, could Mirabito said he would like to see more development take place around involve the development of businesses that would sell basic groceries these hubs for the benefit of riders. He discussed the issue of “food near public transportation hubs. deserts,” which are areas in urban neighborhoods that feature unaccept- “Let’s say somebody needs a gallon of milk. That person could take ably low access to grocery stores and healthy food options for those res- a CATS bus to a hub, do some grocery shopping, and get right back on

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the bus heading for home,” Mirabito said. “CATS operates buses from 5 term, CATS should focus on developing an all-electric fleet. In the short a.m. to 10 p.m. We could provide wonderful opportunities for people to term, the report suggested using diesel hybrid buses. have quick access to groceries.” “This report is a starting point. The problem, however, is that our The 2014 CATS expansion has allowed the transit system to improve maintenance department, which is located at our main facility, is not its overall reputation in the Baton Rouge community, according to large enough to work on alternative-fuel buses due to the added height of Mirabito, who came to CATS in 2013 from private industry. these vehicles,” Mirabito said. “I think more members of the community feel CATS can positively Other factors also point to a need to expand this facility. There are cur- contribute to several long-term issues facing Baton Rouge,” he said. rently a number of support people who work in a leased office two miles “One issue is air quality. There is an economic boom taking place in the down the road, due to the lack of space at the CATS headquarters. Baton Rouge area, particularly along the Mississippi River (which bor- “These are our two biggest issues — an aging fleet and more needed ders the city’s western edge). This is where many petro chemical plants space. I expect our leadership team, and the CATS Board, will make are located. The Environmental Protection Agency has proposed possi- decisions sometime in 2015 focusing on these needs,” Mirabito said. ble tighter (air) standards, which could negatively impact the boom due “Steps have already been taken to identify costs, but there are a lot of to a lack of air quality credits.” unknowns. It’s important to figure out our financial options as there is In response, Mirabito said CATS officials have approached the only so much grant money available.” Greater Baton Rouge Industry Alliance about adding park-and-ride To help, CATS officials have also been talking with a number of pri- facilities to help relieve traffic congestion in this area and improve pub- vate investment firms. lic transportation options. “This area contains two-lane roads, and traffic is easily congested,” he added. “If we can get more people who work in this location out of their personal vehicles, and onto CATS buses, this can have a positive impact on congestion and air quality.”

Fleet Upgrade, Facility Expansion Remain Major Priorities ven before the major CATS expansion took place in 2014, Ethe transit system’s aging fleet was a concern. This challenge remains. “We currently have 43 buses that either should have been retired by now, or are close to retirement,” Mirabito said. “As a result, we have experienced a spike in road calls and breakdowns since the expansion. The challenge for CATS going forward is taking care of this issue. “There should be great importance placed on keeping buses on the road and keeping them reliable, particularly when trying to expand the customer base to include more choice riders.” CATS has made changes to its fleet recently with the purchase of several used transit buses. Mirabito said using such vehicles is not ideal, but sometimes necessary in order to keep the required number of buses on the street. With the need for a more modern fleet prevalent, CATS officials are looking at different long-term solutions. This includes the possible use of alternative-fuel vehicles. As part of this effort, the University of New Orleans Transportation Institute (UNOTI), under the direction of Dr. John L. Renne, was hired in August 2014, to study and make rec- ommendations regarding the short- and long-term vehicle needs of CATS. The UNOTI report, released in early 2015, recommended that in the long

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“Hopefully, we can find some options. There are a lot of hard decisions that need to be made in 2015. This is a critical time as to where we are going strategically with CATS,” he added. “Fixing these challenges doesn’t happen overnight.” One CATS success story has been its Garden District Trolley service, which provides transportation to and from the residential neighborhoods of the Garden District and downtown Baton Rouge. The fares for the Garden District Trolley are the same as other CATS routes. The service operates on a 30-minute headway weekday mornings and afternoons. There is also a Saturday service. “Trolleys have helped make downtown Baton Rouge a destination place again, as well as providing transportation for those people who work in this area,” Mirabito said. “Our current trolley service was introduced in January 2015, and provides CATS with a different type of rider. Many of these people are very tech savvy. It helps that we use AVL (automatic vehicle location) at CATS.” Expansion of the trolley service is an option being looked at for other areas of Baton Rouge. Mirabito said the service has benefited from a revitalization currently taking place in the city’s downtown area, which includes both the current Bus operators for the Capital Area Transit System (CATS), such as those shown above, and old state capitol buildings. The area is also home to the provide service in and around Baton Rouge that encompasses 296 square miles. Louisiana Art & Science Museum and many festivals throughout the year. “This is all part of CATS becoming more involved in our community,” “There is now a great desire by many people to visit downtown Baton Mirabito added. “The wedding trolley service remains very popular.” Rouge. And, with our trolley system, they don’t have to find a place to Baton Rouge is also home to Louisiana State University (LSU). park,” Mirabito said. Although CATS does not provide on-campus public transportation for The CATS trolleys can also be rented for such private events as wed- the university’s students, it does have routes located at the edge of cam- dings. pus as well as offering its Touchdown Express bus service during LSU

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CATS also provides special service to such local events as the Bayou Country Superfest — a large three-day country music event held in Tiger Stadium — and the Baton Rouge St. Patrick’s Day Parade. As common with other public transportation agencies in the United States, CATS is expected to play a key role as well in emergency evacuations and other security issues. Planning and training for such work is never-ending. In fact, Mirabito recently attended a class sponsored by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) that addressed appropriate responses to acts of terrorism. Mirabito attended with other local leaders. “We spent four days talking about the threat of terrorism in the United States. It’s important to be prepared for not only natural disasters, such as hurri- canes, but also acts of terrorism. These new threats can present different challenges for any community. Public transportation plays a vital role in preparednesss,” Mirabito said. CATS employees and vehicles regularly take part in training exercises as well. This includes training that involves a local airport as well as a nuclear power plant The headquarters at CATS includes administrative offices as well as facility near St. Francisville, LA, not far from Baton nearby maintenance and transfer facilities. Rouge. home football games. Touchdown Express transports passengers between different Baton Rouge locations and Tiger Stadium, home of the Refocusing On Customer Service LSU football team. s part of CATS’ expansion in 2014, transit system officials have “To buy a parking space (on or near campus) is $40. We sell a round refocused their efforts on improving customer service in an trip bus service for $10 for those people heading to the game,” Mirabito Aeffort to better connect with the riding public. This is an area that said. “We transport anywhere from 700 to 2,000 people per game.” Mirabito said he is determined to get right. EFFICIENCY RELIABILITYITY Air Conditioning Electric PERFORMANCEDiscover electricityNC

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May/June 2015 BUSLINE Page 23 0515Busline.FINAL_Layout 1 5/1/15 8:11 AM Page 24

“I came from private industry in 2013. My focus has always been, ‘If early. Obviously, this has nothing to do with traffic, and everything to do we don’t have a customer, we don’t have a bus company,’” he said. with paying attention to the CATS schedule and running our service the “Therefore, we have introduced some things to improve our customer correct way. service focus. This includes employee incentives. “My philosophy is, ‘We can’t be satisfied any time one of our “Our people are rewarded if the agency meets certain customer serv- buses is not on time.’ This is what we are trying to drive home at ice criteria. Everybody in the agency is eligible. I feel it’s helped drive a CATS.” strong focus to what exactly it is that we are here to do, which is provide Safety and the use of technology are also vital. a safe and enjoyable trip at all times.” “If there is an accident with one of our buses, this not only impacts Customer service surveys are also issued at CATS. They help the tran- safety, but also our bottom line. Accidents increase a transit system’s sit system keep a close eye on rider satisfaction levels. overall operating expense. It’s all interdependent,” he added. “We have seen improvements from survey results. The most important “Technology is part of the equation. For example, it’s important to many thing to our customers is on-time performance. It’s vital that our vehicles of our customers that they are able to use our mobile app and/or our Web are able to maintain a schedule,” Mirabito said. “Currently, we have an portal when trying to find out when a particular bus is going to arrive.” approximate 75 percent on-time performance. It needs to be better. As I The use of AVL and GPS remains at the forefront of importance at tell our operators, 10 percent of our misses are from being at the stop too CATS, Mirabito added. This technology not only helps CATS riders know when to expect the next vehicle, but also helps transit officials keep tabs on the entire Baton Rouge public transportation grid. “It aggravates me when I see two buses running back-to-back. This defeats the purpose of what we are trying to do, which is provide scheduled service at set times,” Mirabito said. “With our current system, we can see in real time when buses start running late. Our dispatch center will receive alerts from the system, telling when a particular bus is lagging behind. We can then take proactive steps to avoid having buses operate too close together.” Using technology that accurately gauges passenger counts has also proven beneficial for CATS when trying to determine the true value of particular bus stops. “There are over 1,600 bus stops at CATS. We can now justify the removal of a stop, if necessary, due to lack of use. Every bus stop at CATS has an ID. Each time a bus visits that stop, the ID is registered. Therefore, if the count is near zero, then we know that stop is not being used Your one stop shop for coach, rail, and ship interiors. enough,” Mirabito said. “It’s important to have justification in place when removing a bus stop.” Upholstery, New & Used passenger & Drivers Despite current advances in technology seats, ooring, oor structural, foam, gas already in place, the need for greater improvements never wanes. struts and upholstery cleaning machines. “Looking ahead, I want to arrive in the morn- ing and have a digital dashboard available that is Dealers for Isringhausin and National Seats, showing different financial, maintenance, cus- we have a full stock of seats and parts for tomer and operational information,” he said. “We don’t have this capability yet. It’s one of our both brands. We also have parts for Ameri- goals for 2015. can, Amaya, Vanhool and Wakeeld seats. “There is a desire by many to have public agencies follow strong business principles. This is what we are trying to do here at CATS. If we don't have it, we can get it. Over time, we have made progress. We are not completely there yet, but it’s been fun working Over 40 years of service to the toward this goal.” motorcoach industry, all seat covers Helping current and potential riders better understand bus routes and schedules has also guaranteed for 4 years or 400,000 miles. been an important objective for Mirabito and his staff. This has been particularly important in Any questions about your seats or other needs, please wake of the transit system’s large 2014 route call 425-432-9867 or visit us at www.willinghaminc.com. expansion. “We held public meetings and spent quite a bit of money on printed materials. It’s important to remember that there are many riders, such as older people, who may not know how to use a

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smartphone when trying to read a bus schedule,” he said. “To help, person to admit, however, that the key position to fostering a positive we expanded our customer care hours. They now run from 5 a.m. to customer service experience remains the bus operator. 11 p.m. There is somebody available during these hours to answer peo- “This has to be one of the most challenging jobs a person can have for ple’s questions. Our customer care reps use the CATS Web portal to see, the amount of pay that is usually offered,” he said. “Because of this, we in real time, when and where a particular bus is operating. They can also have worked to increase our operators pay. New hires are now paid see when the bus is supposed to depart a particular stop. $12.50 per hour when they start training. This is increased to $13.25 once “I believe CATS is one of the few agencies that indicates on its that training has been completed. mobile app not only when a specific bus is going to depart from a par- “I feel it’s still important to ask, ‘Is this a liveable wage?’ It can be dif- ticular stop, but show, as well, the original schedule. This allows riders ficult to attract the right people when it comes to driving a bus. There is to know if the particular bus is running early or late. It’s all related to not only the technical aspect involved, but it’s also vital that operators transparency. I always say, ‘We can do better.’ We shouldn’t have positively react with riders. Customers can present challenges, and our anything to hide, and it’s good to provide as much information as operator turnover rate is around the industry average of 35 to 40 percent. we can for our riders.” We would like that rate to be much lower.” Mirabito added that it’s important to generate as much interest as pos- He added that efforts continue to attract quality talent for future sible when it comes to the various transit services provided by CATS. employment. This includes the use of different forms of print and electronic media. “When it comes to operations and maintenance, the people employed The transit system is also active on social media, such as Twitter and in these areas can either make or break a transit agency,” Mirabito said. Facebook. Along with hiring the best candidates, a solid employee training program remains a critical part to improving the success of any public trans- Increasing Staff Remains A Priority portation agency. For bus operators at CATS, this involves successfully mong the many changes that have taken place at CATS since the completing an initial training program that lasts three to four weeks. 2012 ballot victory has been an increase in staff. When Mirabito Once completed, a second phase helping new operators become familiar Acame to the agency in 2013, it had approximately140 employees. with specific routes begins. Today, there are approximately 250 employed at CATS, including 160 “In addition, we provide ongoing customer service training,” he said. bus operators. “Once on the road, our bus operators are subjected to ride-alongs from “The goal for 2015 is to further grow our staff. We are looking at members of our training staff, and our road supervisor makes it a prac- adding 25 people — 16 operators, 5 in administrative support and 4 tice to conduct observations while on the street. These are all tools that mechanics,” Mirabito said. “There has also been a move to 3 shifts in we use.” maintenance, which was started in July 2014.” In the future, video technology taken from inside each CATS bus will In an effort to become more reactive to customer issues, one of the also be used to help evaluate an operator’s performance. new CATS positions is called a “quality analyst.” Mirabito is the first “This will allow us to see what is working, and how we can improve Bus HVAC Solutions SYSTEMS PARTS SERVICE TRAINING ACT CR-2 Roof Mounted Condenser Lightweight, Rugged, Low Profile Attractive Durable TPO Cover Available in 12- and 24-volt Models Easy to Install and Service ACT EV-2 In Wall Evaporator Enhanced Airflow Easy Installation and Filter Access Lightweight Aluminum Chassis Strong ABS Cover

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our training process. This will also help identify where an operator may ADVERTORIAL have a weakness so that person can be retrained,” Mirabito said. From Monochem: Focusing On Future Development Dyna-Bact Breaks Down Waste n the wake of ongoing state budget shortfalls in Louisiana, challenges remain when it comes to transit funding. The same can be Quickly And Effectively Isaid at the national level. “Louisiana is dependent on oil revenue, and with the price of oil drop- “Dyna-Bact, from Monochem, is an innovative environmental- ping significantly, there are shortfalls. The question everybody asks, ly safe product developed over a 10-year period. The active ingre- ‘Where is the additional revenue going to come from?’” Mirabito said. dients, derived from naturally occurring enzymes and non-patho- “I wouldn’t be in this job at CATS, however, if I wasn’t an optimist. It’s genic bacteria, break down waste quickly and effectively. important to find creative ways to do more with less. “Because the formula is based on naturally occurring ingredi- “I believe that if we continue to do the right things in Baton Rouge ents, Dyna-Bact is beneficial to waste treatment plants that rely on with our transit agency, more people will become attracted to our serv- these bacteria and enzymes to recycle waste.” ice. The driving force that will get more people out of their vehicles, Dyna-Bact is formulated using eight strains of odor fighting bac- and into a bus, isn’t gas prices, it’s going to be traffic congestion. teria and multiple enzymes. By using a wide variety of bacteria and Therefore, it’s important to give priority to public transportation, enzymes, Dyna-Bact is able to counteract the growth of odor caus- such as the development and use of bus-only lanes in high traffic ing bacteria, leaving the rest room smelling fresh and clean. areas.” Dyna-Bact deodorizer works effectively when waste is fully Looking ahead, Mirabito said it’s important that CATS becomes more submerged. If piling occurs, odor causing bacteria will grow rap- than just a bus company for the transit dependent. Such services as park- idly. Dyna-Bact Bacteria and Enzymes work quickly to break and-rides and the Garden District Trolley service do attract new customers. down solids, which helps reduce the likelihood of piling. “We are exploring more options, but sometimes are constrained by our Another benefit to using Dyna-Bact is its improved perform- current fleet,” he said. “We are looking to implement, in 2015, an express ance in hot weather. As temperatures rise, the activity rate of the bus route that will transport people non-stop between the north side of enzymes and odor fighting bacteria increases, improving its effec- our service area and the LSU campus. Another express route is scheduled tiveness. to run between the campus and downtown Baton Rouge.” An added benefit is its effectiveness in removing scale and soil Despite challenges, Mirabito added that future improvements at CATS build-up on waste tank walls, hoses, pumps and other contact are both viable and doable. areas. By removing this residue, equipment lasts longer, operates Contact: Capital Area Transit System (CATS), more efficiently and lingering odors are eliminated. 2250 Florida Blvd., Baton Rouge, LA 70802. Visit www.worldwidemonochem.com for more information. Phone: 225-389-8920; Website: www.brcats.com.

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Relational Bus Systems ADVERTORIAL

RBS Software Covers All Aspects GoTour Of Tour, Charter Management GoTour, our cloud based Tour Management Software, manages reservations, itineraries, payables, receivables, and produces management reports RBS, Inc., is a major provider of Tour and Charter Management and customer documents for group and retail tours. Hosted in the cloud using AWS (Amazon Web Services), GoTour can be accessed using a broad- Software specifically designed for the motorcoach industry. For band internet connection. The RBS professional staff actively monitors 20 years, RBS has been designing, implementing and supporting AWS services health, including continuous data backups, software updates, its premier products: GoChart and GoTour. The company serves and network traffic analysis. RBS is now distributing GoTour v4 which more than 500 North American customers. includes “Type-to-Find” searches, PDF Reports and, GoPay, RBS’s highly secure online credit card authorization system.

GoChart GoChart Charter Management System features customer and contract management, scheduling, dispatching, accounts receivable and numerous accounting/operations reports. Modules allow companies to customize the RBS system to fit their needs. The security module is now more powerful with stricter controls, and requires each employee to access RBS using a unique login and password. User-defined permissions allow access to specific areas of the program depending on job types such as administra- tor, salesperson, dispatcher and driver. GoChart’s Web Manager provides reliable credit card authorization, online quote generation and notification, driver access to schedules and document storage and retrieval. This includes: • Credit Card Processing — Integrated into the RBS GoChart application; • Quote Request — Customers request quotes online by providing basic information, which is used to open a quote in GoChart. Email is for- warded to the customer and sales staff notifying receipt of online quote; • Special Requests for GoChart Data Access via the Web — Provides Web access to drivers’ schedules, allowing them to access schedules from home, office or anywhere with an Internet connection; • Offsite Backup and Recovery software and services — Designed with disaster recovery in mind. A backup client on your server connects remotely and backs up your critical RBS data daily. Only you and RBS have access to this data. Notification emails are sent each time the data is backed up. RBS ensures that backup data is properly available for restoration and maintains terminal services/remote desktop environment to which your data can be moved. You will have access for two users, for one month, while you re-establish your network infrastructure; and, • GoText — Automatically provides scheduled text messages to drivers, reminding them of upcoming assignments. Call RBS at 800-448-7001 or visit www.rbs2000.com to request an evaluation copy of GoChart, or, to schedule a demo of GoTour and start a 30-day trial. Page 28 BUSLINE May/June 2015 0515Busline.FINAL_Layout 1 5/1/15 8:11 AM Page 29

Motorcoach Manager ADVERTORIAL

Motorcoach Manager Introduces Flexible New • Powerful new reporting system gives users the ability to easily cus- Version Of Its Management Software Application tomize reports to their needs and export them to a variety of popular for- mats, including Excel, PDF, HTML and Text. MM1 and MM2 provide a powerful blend of innovative features All motorcoach companies are not alike. The markets vary and needs designed to make record-keeping easier and more accurate. They track all change over time. Therefore, they require software applications that are the changing information so operators can be ready to meet the needs of flexible, extensible, and customizable. customers, employees and government entities. The software’s flexible Motorcoach Manager 1 has served the motorcoach industry for 20 reporting system is built on data entered one time, and organized to pro- years, and has a vast collection of features and reports by building varia- vide in-depth management tools. tions for its diverse clients. It encompasses deep knowledge of the needs The charter and tour industry must have electronic systems for of operators, acquired over time. MM1 provided the model for MM2, our handling all the logistical components of the service they provide 2015 version, which has been completely re-built on a new platform and because they are accountable to the public and the government enti- designed to incorporate all that has worked well in MM1. Data will be ties that monitor transportation companies. Fleet management soft- transferred from existing client files. Highlights of MM2 include: ware is a cost effective way to manage transactions in this complicat- • Deeply integrated mapping components; ed industry. • Routes created with ease as the order is initially entered; The software is appropriate for all sizes of charter, tour, scheduled serv- • Mileages and times calculated automatically using Microsoft ice, or maintenance operations, including companies with divisions for Mapping Services to generate accurate quotes on the fly; separate office sites or departments. Several offices can share the applica- • Permissions model offers users precise control over which employees tion from multiple locations. are allowed to access specific aspects of the application; Motorcoach Charter Manager provides a systematic process for han- • Useful workspaces feature allows users to customize the layout of the dling all the details of a trip order — from the initial customer call application for specific tasks; through the final reconciliation of the finances, IFTA mileage and fuel • Built using state-of-the-art technology that will adapt to future oper- reporting, and driver payroll calculations. It includes visual tools to ating system changes and interface with third-party applications; increase income through effective utilization of the fleet. It provides con- • Updates will be provided for all companies as the application evolves; and, Continued On Page 42

Charter Orders Tour Planning Dispatching CHARTER TOUR Retail Tours Mileage and Fuel MANAGER MANAGER Sightseeing Tours Financial Reporting Receptive Services

Wo r k i n g To g e t h e r.

Work Orders Parts Inventory MAINTENANCE SHUTTLE Airport Shuttles Labor Services MANAGER MANAGER Casino Shuttles Maintenance History

Modular Fleet and Tour Management Software

• Tracks all aspects of your operation • Tracks fuel, mileage, payroll, drivers, vehicles, etc. • Simplifies creating charters or tours • Prints or emails quotes, contracts, invoices, etc. • Multiple dispatch management tools • Single or multi-user licensing. • Extensive financial reporting • Modules may be purchased individually or combined.

Call or email today to schedule a FREE online live demonstration. 800.780.6880 or [email protected]

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Sys2K ADVERTORIAL

Sys2K Harnesses Cutting-Edge Technology To Create Management Solutions As a preferred software vendor for the bus industry, Sys2K is Most notably, the Daimler Corporation selected Sys2K for its proud to be celebrating its 30th year providing dealers and manufac- North American Setra Tour Bus division. Similarly, numerous turers with cutting-edge technology. The Infinity software has revo- other bus dealers choose Sys2K to successfully manage their lutionized communication flow and created unparalleled business operations. management processes. Alliance Bus Group recently commented, “We have been with Sys2K since 2010. They have worked with our compa- With 30 years of building profitable and successful ny to accommodate our needs. It has provided our company with an integrated software package that can solutions for businesses around the globe, Sys2K handle our large volume of bus and motorcoach sales, is consistently focused on harnessing tomorrow’s our parts, service and support offerings, and our gener- technology for today’s dealerships. At Sys2K, al ledger.” In 2013, Sys2K released the Suite of Mobile Apps amazing advances are always on the horizon. designed for on-the-go business management. Last year, Sys2K continued to expand its Preferred Partner After being sought out by Microsoft in 1995, Sys2K created the Network by establishing embedded integration with Coach-Net, industry’s first Windows®-based DMS alongside the software Novera Payment Solutions and American Guardian Warranty giant. Then in 2005, Sys2K released the industry’s first truly inte- Services. Today, Sys2K continues to pioneer new technologies and grated DMS, harnessing the limitless power of SQL Server and .Net ways to implement them successfully in the business environment. functionality. Infinity module options include Customer With 30 years of building profitable and successful solutions for Relationship Management (CRM), F&I, Parts and Service, Payroll, businesses around the globe, Sys2K is consistently focused on har- Accounting, Rental, Advanced Reporting, and Manager’s nessing tomorrow’s technology for today’s dealerships. At Sys2K, Dashboard. Customizations are made within the modules specifi- amazing advances are always on the horizon. cally for the bus industry. For more information, visit www.sys2k.com.

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Distinctive Systems ADVERTORIAL

Tradition Of Industry Leading Technology, Distinctive Systems has gained a well-deserved reputation for provid- Functionality Continues At Distinctive Systems ing world class support to its clients over the years. Its support infrastructure has been enhanced with the addition of yet another member of the Support Services group. In December of 2014, industry veteran Laura Distinctive Systems is an independent software vendor specializing in Clark joined Distinctive Systems and has immediately had a great impact the development of products for coach and bus companies. Established on all of the Distinctive Systems clients. for over 30 years, it has supplied hundreds of systems to operators The range of software is comprehensive and includes systems for man- throughout the United Kingdom, Ireland, North America, South Africa, aging coach-based charters, regular contract work, community transport Australia, New Zealand and beyond. operations, gross payroll, vehicle maintenance, workshop management, Distinctive Systems is known, not only for the quality and com- and both back office and online reservations for extended tours, sightsee- pleteness of its software offerings, but also for being an industry ing trips and shuttle services. leader with continual new enhancements and functionality releases. All of the applications are Windows-based and have been developed Clients of Distinctive Systems routinely receive updated functionality to using Microsoft Visual Studio. The success that has been achieved over the products that they own. the years comes about as a direct result of an unique experience in both It is not uncommon to hear a client say, “I can’t believe how far the IT and passenger transport industries. your products have come in the past five years I have owned them, Recent years have been particularly exciting at Distinctive Systems. and I cannot imagine where they might be even two years from now.” Aside from new functionality being added to the applications, a Rental This commitment to continually improving the offerings, and constantly Option has been offered to clients for all three of the Distinctive Systems’ keeping up with latest technological enhancements, sets Distinctive applications. This has led to record numbers of new client adds to the Systems apart from all others offering software solutions to the motorcoach Distinctive Systems’ user base. industry. Numerous exciting additions have been made to software in The Annual User Group Meeting, coupled with an ongoing webinar 2014/2015. A few examples of new functionality added are the Google series and expanded support services, has ensured successful implemen- Maps Integration, an option to link existing quotation forms from opera- tations, ongoing growth of the usage of the applications with existing tors’ websites into Coach Manager and the ability to have operators’ cus- clients, and continued interaction with the publisher and actual develop- tomers see the location of their allocated vehicle on the day of the booking. Continued On Page 42

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busHive ADVERTORIAL

busHive Transportation Software busHive Personnel Compliance Covers All The Bases busHive Personnel Compliance is a comprehensive personnel and driver training platform. This system tracks and monitors all federal, state and company personnel requirements (physicals, busHive is an industry leader in transportation license renewals and behind-the-wheel refreshers). Be warned management software. For 18 years, it has special- BEFORE personnel become due for requirements and avoid cost- ized in charter management, driver compliance ly fines. It also tracks infractions, such as accidents, speeding and vehicle preventative maintenance. tickets absences and customer complaints. This module has become the favorite tool used by safety managers throughout the busHive Charter industry. busHive Charter helps motorcoach companies increase revenue and reduce expenses. The software is the central resource for busHive Vehicle Maintenance sales, dispatching, fleet allocation, customer billing and driver busHive Vehicle Maintenance helps maintain a company’s fleet payroll. It allows users to enter customer information and get and keep it compliant. This platform notifies fleet managers about quotes and contracts out in a matter of minutes. upcoming preventative maintenance. It generates work orders and The software also sends on contracts and confirmations to keep tracks all costs associated with parts, labor and fuel. The system customers on the same page and to increase customer satisfaction. also tracks inventory and warns users when parts are low. Fleet When dispatching, the system is color coordinated to show driver managers can pull vehicles out of service, and it will alert dis- and vehicle availability. The software will show any conflicts and patchers to create coverage. prompt users for coverage. It also warns if a driver will be put into overtime, and shows his or her hours of service. For upper manage- For more information, ment, there are built-in reporting tools to show revenue per vehicle, please visit and even gives them a profit/loss analysis for every reservation. www.bushive.com.

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American Trans-Data, Corp. (ATD) ADVERTORIAL

ATD’s New Software Allows Users To Purchase Tickets Electronically

American Trans-Data, Corp. (ATD) is a pioneer in providing software and consultation services to the transportation and travel industry. We have provided Key Desktop Systems, mobile websites and specialized handheld devices to the charter bus and tour industries. ATD is continu- ing its journey by producing all software products in-house with greater user satisfaction. Our new software, such as Airport Shuttle System and Trolley System, allows users to buy bus tickets online via mobile phone or tablet. Reservations are easily made by intuitive designed websites that can book more users at a time. ATD provides custom website design and development services for both mobile, tablet and desktop devices by integrating responsive design techniques that format the screen based on the type of equipment the pur- chaser is using. ATD also offers Ecommerce, logo branding, Customized Content Management System (CMS), Credit Card Payment Processing, Brand Identity Packages, Search Optimization and Mobile Web Design & Development, etc. ATD Software Systems has gone the distance of supplying Web services such as Web development, Web and user interface design, and software development for every need on the Web. ATD has produced hundreds of software projects and desktop systems throughout its history. ATD has the staff and experience to bring a customer’s project in on time and on budget. Secure tokenization credit card processing with First Data is another service provided by ATD. ATD has a team of developers with specialized skills in graphics, Web design and desktop systems. Every specialist is an expert in his or her field of knowledge. Contact ATD for details on the exciting projects recently produced by American Trans-Data, Corp. For more information, visit www.americantransdata.com.

News From Prevost expanded services, compared to the previous high-end motorhome and specialty conversion. location. The relocation is expected to take It is part of the Volvo Group. Prevost Greater Toronto place in the summer of 2015. This expansion is Area Service Center part of Prevost’s commitment to provide the strongest service network in the industry.” Prevost Names Jack Forbes Expanding The new 52,000-square-foot facility, located Vice President Of Corporate Accounts at 7655 Tranmere Drive, Mississauga, ON, will And Commuter Sales Prevost will relocate its Greater Toronto Area accommodate up to 14 full-service bays, a large service center to a larger facility, approximately parts warehouse area, training room, customer Prevost has named 15 miles southwest of the current location. lounge and an increased parking area. Jack Forbes vice Guillaume Charron, service network manag- “Prevost’s new Mississauga, ON, facility is president of corporate er for Canada, said, “We will be able to offer one of 11 North American service centers where accounts and com- factory-trained experts muter sales. He suc- provide a full range of ceeds Dann Wiltgen, maintenance services and who retired in early mechanical repair solu- May after many years tions to get vehicles up with Prevost. and running quickly,” Forbes has been Jack Forbes said Darren Nippard, with Prevost for 17 branch manager. years, most recently as vice president of parts Prevost is a manufac- sales. In addition, he has been responsible for turer of intercity touring developing the commuter market. coaches and produces Visit www.prevostcar.com conversion coaches for for more information.

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American Trans-Data, Corp. inventory, fuel, driver, accident and risk management as well as compre- See Ad On Page 33 hensive and infinitely flexible reporting. Chevin’s software becomes a 3611 S. Harbor Blvd., Suite 155 central repository for all fleet related data, allowing organizations to man- Santa Ana, CA 92704 USA age complex fleet and operations data with a single enterprise-wide sys- Phone: 714-751-3000 Fax: 714-751-3432 tem. 11 E-Mail: [email protected] Web Site: www.americantransdata.com DDS eFleet Services Inc. Company Officers: Mark Mueller, CEO; Melissa Reyes, Vice President 11920 Forge Place Products: American Trans-Data has been providing software solutions to Richmond, BC V7A 4V9 CANADA the bus and tour industries since 1980. It provides turnkey solutions for Phone: 604-241-1441 charter bus companies to manage the reservation and billing process. ATD Fax: 604-241-1440 also provides airport and casino shuttle systems that provide both desktop E-Mail: [email protected] and mobile platforms. The company’s new shuttle system offer on-bus tick- Web Site: www.efleetservices.com et confirmation and redemption. 15 Products: Complete solution of fleet management capabilities into a single hosted system that is delivered as a subscription service, including: busHive Software GPS fleet tracking, GPS navigation, hour of service, two-way text mes- See Ad On Page 32 saging, computer-aided wireless dispatch, point-of-sale payment process- 313 Ushers Road ing and integrated ticketing capabilities. Ballston Lake, NY 12019 USA Features are provided with minimal start-up costs, and the system is Phone: 518-877-2507 Fax: 518-602-9262 designed to be scalable to fit business needs. eFleet is personalized to the E-Mail: [email protected] vehicle and organization it serves. Dispatchers and managers coordinate Web Site: www.bushive.com fleet activities through a web-based system that is managed, supported Company Officers: Mike Hinckley, President/CEO; and Brian Mann, and hosted by eFleet. Routine tasks can be automated. Examples include: Director of Sales and Marketing driver logs, IFTA reporting, ETA vehicle reporting, engine diagnostics, Products: busHive Charter, busHive Personnel Compliance, busHive paperless ticketing, comprehensive record keeping of trip navigation, and Vehicle Maintenance and Online Trip Request. 15 charge and customer details. 13

Chevin Fleet Solutions Distinctive Systems Inc. 43 Orchard Hill Drive See Ad On Page 31 Sharon, MA 02067 USA 131 1/2 S. Washington St. Phone: 781-793-0788 Fax: 781-784-6894 Binghamton, NY 13903 USA Web Site: www.chevinfleet.com Phone: 646-448-9981 Products: Chevin Fleet Solutions, an industry-provider of enterprise fleet E-Mail: [email protected] management information systems, provides fleet management software Web Site: www.distinctive-systems.com that enables transit, demand response and charter organizations to Company Officers: Don Greenglass, Bob Hopwood enhance equipment availability, safety and reliability. Included is the Products: Distinctive Systems is a leading supplier of software to the ability to manage preventive maintenance, maintenance management, coach industry. Established for 30 years, over 750 operators rely on

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one or more of the company’s latest Microsoft SQL-based systems for complete set of features is included in the software. Features such as built-in the efficient management of their companies. The main systems at email, exporting of data, utilization charts, availability charts, financial analy- Distinctive Systems include its Coach Manager Charter and Contract sis tools, tight security, etc., are either included or available. Motorcoach Booking System, the Tour Booking System and the Vehicle Manager runs on standard PCs running any current version of Microsoft Maintenance System. Distinctive Systems has garnered an excellent Windows. Single-user or multi-user (networked) versions are available. reputation over the years for updating its applications with additional Responsive, timely customer service is the company’s priority. 15 functionality, on an ongoing basis. 15 Norse Systems, Inc. Enghouse Transportation 245 Sage Hollow Road 80 Tiverton Court, Suite 800 Guilford, CT 06437 Markham, ON L3R 0G4 CANADA Toll Free: 800-769-8468 Fax: 203-457-8033 Phone: 905-946-3200 E-Mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] Web Site: www.norsesys.com Web Site: www.enghousetransportation.com Products: Providing integrated software to the bus industry for more than 26 Products: Enghouse provides proven software solutions for transit years. Norse Systems offers “Virtual Server” deployments. No capital invest- including: Sched21 fixed route scheduling; TransView (paratransit schedul- ment is required, just a fee per user. The most recent innovation from Norse ing & dispatch); TeleDriver (workforce management); BusLine (fixed route is “Screen Driver,” a complete application development environment provid- IVR); HandyLine (paratransit IVR); and CrewLine (operator IVR). 15 ed with the application software. In addition to one source for system infrastructure, application software and professional support, Norse offers a set GIRO Inc. of integrated software available to the industry. A single fee per user pro- 75 Port-Royal Street East, Suite 500 vides a managed hardware and software solution. Applications are offered Montreal, QC H3L 3T1 CANADA for charter sales, line run, tour reservations, school bus routing, dispatch, Phone: 514-383-0404 driver qualification, accident management, IFTA taxes, fuel management, Fax: 514-383-4971 work flow control, maintenance, inventory, purchasing and multi-site logis- E-Mail: [email protected] tics, driver and employee time and pay, integrated financial systems, indi- Web Site: www.giro.ca vidual seat reservations for tours and shuttles, and more. 11 Company Officers: Paul Hamelin, President; Marc Dupont, Vice President of Marketing; Pierre Trudeau, Vice President of Business Paradigm Technology Consulting, LLC Development 22 S. Main Street Products: GIRO Inc. develops and implements integrated software solu- Allentown, NJ 08501 USA tions to help plan and manage public-transit operations, as well as para- Toll Free: 866-782-4636 transit services. GIRO's HASTUS software suite addresses bus, subway, Phone: 609-890-4150 Fax: 609-890-4154 streetcar, as well as passenger rail, and offers a modular solution for plan- E-Mail: [email protected] ning and analysis, scheduling, operations, and customer information. Web Site: www.ptcllc.com Scheduling modules include industry-leading optimizers that allow pub- Products: Paradigm Technology Consulting, LLC (PTC) is a Microsoft lic transport providers to produce efficient vehicle and operator/crew Gold Certified Partner focusing on human resources and labor manage- schedules. Daily operations modules help manage changes to planned ment for the transportation industry. It is PTC’s approach to assemble best service and vehicle/operator assignments. The GIRO/ACCES software of breed solutions for the motorcoach industry, and to offer an end-to- suite addresses demand-response services, including paratransit. The end turnkey solution that makes it possible for operators in the industry software manages customer registration, trip booking, trip scheduling, as to leverage the best technology available. This is done by bringing well as daily operations, and is in use at agencies that provide up to together the solutions offered by Microsoft, Enghouse, Collective Data 10,000 trips per day. GIRO/ACCES integrates with IVR, email, SMS, and eFleet as well as PTC’s own Transportation Suite. The Paradigm Web applications, and other systems. 15 Transportation Suite (PTS) is a suite of payroll and labor management applications designed for operators with more complex payroll and Motorcoach Manager, Inc. workforce management needs including those involving union contracts. See Ad On Page 29 In addition to selling, implementing and supporting operational systems 3517 Marconi Ave., Suite 207 like CoachWorks, Paradigm also sells, implements and supports finan- Sacramento, CA 95821 USA cial systems such as Microsoft Dynamics GP, customer relationship Phone: 916-972-1800 Fax: 916-972-1875 management systems such as Microsoft Dynamics CRM, vehicle main- E-Mail: [email protected] tenance systems from Collective Data, and Computer-Aided Wireless Web Site: www.motorcoachmanager.com Dispatch and Fleet Management solutions from eFleet. 13 Company Officers: Shirley Campbell, President; Stephen Mayzels, Vice President RBS - Relational Bus Systems, Inc. Products: Motorcoach Manager is innovative, flexible software which pro- See Ad On Page 28 vides a complete, cost-effective system for managing charter orders; schedul- 10 Lancaster Street - Box 215 ing and dispatching; group, retail, and sightseeing tours; shuttles; scheduled Cherry Valley, NY 13320 USA line runs; school buses; and vehicle maintenance. The four modules, which Toll Free: 800-448-7001 Fax: 607-264-8070 may be purchased in any combination, are Charters, Tours, Maintenance, and E-Mail: [email protected] Shuttles. The application is the result of years of collaboration between the Web Site: www.rbs2000.com MM staff and hundreds of clients and prospects. Ideas for features are incor- Company Officers: Bob Schecter, President; Walter Buist, Vice porated throughout to make managing charters and tours as easy as possible. President The software can be tailored to each operation. New reports are added for Products: RBS, Inc. designs, implements and supports Tour and Charter clients as needed and data is exported so it can be opened in Excel. Motorcoach Management systems with more than 500 customers in North America. Manager is intended to track all of the data needs of motorcoach and tour oper- Products include: ations and eliminate the need for spreadsheets outside of the application. A GoChart Charter Management System features customer and contract

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management, schedule and dispatch, and accounts receivable. Modules Trapeze Group allow system customization to fit a company’s needs and size. Powerful, 5800 Explorer Drive user definable security requiring unique login and password is available; Mississaugua ON L4W 5K9 CANADA GoTour Management System, a browser-based system, manages tour Phone: 905-629-8727 reservations, itineraries, receivables and payables, produces customer doc- E-Mail: [email protected] uments and management reports for group and retail tours. The RBS Web Site: www.trapezegroup.com cloud-based system is hosted and backed up in the cloud using AWS Products: Trapeze delivers solutions that consider the full enterprise (Amazon Web Services). RBS is now distributing GoTourV4, which of a transit agency. Whether addressing the needs of a single depart- includes “Type-to-Find” searches, pdf reports. Available is GoPay, RBS’s ment, an entire organization, or the community, Trapeze provides highly secure online credit card authorization feature; some of the most advanced software, intelligent transportation sys- Offsite Backup and Recovery provides daily offsite data backup and fea- tems and mobile technologies in the industry. Trapeze offers the fol- tures limited online access to a customer’s data in the event of a disaster; and, lowing solutions: Transit Operations and Workforce Management, Web Manager modules include simple, reliable, real time credit card designed to simplify scheduling, frequent sign-ups, complex pay rules authorization for GoChart and GoTour; online quote generation and noti- and solve other logistical headaches; Transit Enterprise Asset fication; integrated document storage and retrieval; and Web access to Management, which tracks equipment and infrastructure over time, drivers’ orders for GoChart. Demos available by appointment. 15 extends their lives and keeps them safe; Automated Fare Collection designed for optimal cash management, provides agencies with mod- RouteMatch Software, Inc. ern fare media and provides higher utility to existing investments; Atlantic Center Plaza Traveler Information delivers schedule and real-time information to 1180 W. Peachtree St., Suite 1130 transit and paratransit passengers, whenever and wherever it is neces- Atlanta, GA 30309 USA sary. Transit scheduling and planning and paratransit scheduling and Phone: 888-840-8791 dispatch solutions provide true flexibility for an agency, while E-Mail: [email protected] Business Intelligence tools provide unparalleled views of an agency’s Web Site: www.routematch.com data, ensuring that the right information is getting to the right people Products: RouteMatch is a provider of transit ITS software and solutions. at the right time. 15 Founded in 1999, the company is headquartered in Atlanta, GA. Targeting private and public sector passenger transportation providers, the company’s ViaTour Software products address routing, scheduling, dispatching, billing, reporting, fixed- 200 South Main Street, Suite B route CAD/AVL, paratransit and fixed-route integration, business intelli- Templeton, CA 93465 USA gence, transportation coordination and more. 10 Phone: 505-466-6300 Fax: 866-587-9350 E-Mail: [email protected] Schedule Masters, Inc. Web Site: www.viatoursoftware.com 300-1B Conestoga Drive Products: ViaTour Software is a reservation and tour management Brampton, ON L6Z 4N5 CANADA system that automates a company’s back-end workflow by integrating Phone: 905-495-5402 reservations, operations and accounting. Born as a niche market solu- Fax: 905-495-5404 tion for travel planners in the educational travel market, ViaTour tour Web Site: www.schedule-masters.org management software also answers the requirements of coach tour Products: “The Master Scheduler” is a fixed-route scheduling soft- operators. This all-in-one system supports users throughout the entire ware tool that includes: scheduling, blocking, run-cutting, rostering, tour lifecycle from proposal, costing, and marketing, through reserva- daily operations/dispatch, Web-based trip planning, customer com- tion processing and communications, to tour operations and, finally, plaint tracking, performance tracking, reporting and mapping. 07 business analysis. ViaTour bundles these feature sets into four application levels: Basic, Standard, Pro and Enterprise. It’s user-friendly Sys2K Dealership Software and integrates with Microsoft Office. Enterprise, with data in SQL See Ad On Page 30 server, allows for Web integration, publishing and remote online 528 Northlake Blvd., Ste 1000 access. 10 Altamonte Springs, FL 32701 USA Phone: 407-358-2000 Fax: 407-358-2020 E-Mail: [email protected] ARBOC Specialty Vehicles To Supply Web Site: www.sys2k.com Products: Sys2K’s Infinity software is a leading solution for the bus 35 New Replacement Spirit Of and motorcoach industry for both dealers and manufacturers. Infinity business management sotware incorporates the latest technologies to Freedom Buses To Calgary Transit reduce costs and maximize sales revenue. Features include: fully-integrated Windows-based software, a CRM with endless possibilities to ARBOC Specialty Vehicles will be delivering a replacement manage and grow the customer base, comprehensive reporting and group of 35 new buses to Calgary Transit (Canada), starting this management dashboards to monitor the success of each department, July. These replacement Spirit of Freedom low-floor cutaways will mobile apps that take the power of the DMS on-the-go, and cloud go to Crestline Coach, Ltd., in Saskatoon, SK. hosting to alleviate the cost and hassle of maintaining a server. Infinity Calgary Transit currently operates over 150 ARBOC Spirit of smoothly interfaces with other Microsoft applications, while provid- Freedom buses which are used in conjunction with its heavy-duty ing a quality, cost-effective solution. Dealers can realize significant buses for fixed-route service. savings by implementing real-time integration across all departments: Final delivery of all 35 buses to Calgary is expected by late summer. Parts, Service, Finance, CRM, Accounting, Payroll and Rental. ARBOC Specialty Vehicles has been a manufacturer of low-floor Infinity software helps increase efficiency, reduce duplicate data entry buses since 2009. Visit www.ARBOCsv.com for more information. and data entry errors, and manage operations. 15

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AxleTech International E-Mail: [email protected] Website: www.bendix.com 1400 Rochester Rd., Troy, MI 48083 USA Products: Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems, a member of the Phone: 248-658-7200 Knorr-Bremse Group, develops and supplies active safety technologies, Website: www.axletech.com air brake charging, and control systems and components under the Products: Various brake-related products including drum brakes - cam; Bendix® brand name. Markets include medium- and heavy-duty trucks, drum brakes - wedge; hydraulic dry disc brakes; hydraulic wet disc tractors, trailers, buses and other commercial vehicles throughout North brakes and park brakes. 14 America. 14

Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems LLC Bremskerl North America, Inc. 901 Cleveland St., Elyria, OH 44035 USA 1291 Humbracht Circle, Bartlett, IL 60103 USA Phone: 800-AIR-BRAKE, 440-329-9000 Phone: 800-939-4047 Fax: 630-540-2791

RETHINK YOUR TIRE PROGRAM.

Get great tires without great expense by paying only for the tires you use. Bridgestone Mileage Sales can offer a price per mile for your charter, intercity or city-suburban operations. You’ll get top-quality Bridgestone radial tires, backed by an extensive support network. Let us handle your tire program, so you can focus on the rest of your business. Mileage Sales Division • 1-800-342-MILE (6453)

PRECISELY THE RIGHT TIRE.

May/June 2015 BUSLINE Page 37

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E-Mail: [email protected] The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. Website: www.bremskerl.com 200 Innovation Way Products: OE quaility replacement air disc brake pads for coach and Akron, OH 44316-0001 USA transit bus applications; 100 percent asbestos-free RoHS and REACH Phone: 330-796-2121 compliant. German engineered quaility. 15 Website: www.goodyear.com Products: Goodyear is one of the world’s largest tire companies. It Bridgestone Americas Tire Operations, LLC employs approximately 69,000 people and manufactures its products See Ad On Page 37 from 51 facilities in 22 countries around the world. Its two Innovation 535 Marriott Dr., 8th Floor, Nashville, TN 37214 USA Centers, located in Akron, OH, and Colmar-Berg, Luxembourg, strive Phone: 330-697-4497 Fax: 330-572-5039 to develop state-of-the-art products and services. 14 E-Mail: [email protected] Website: www.bridgestonefirestonemileagesales.com Haldex Brake Products Corp. Company Officers: Warren Dickinson, General Manager; Karl Webb, Eastern 10930 N. Pomona Ave. Division Manager; Joeseph Leipart, Western Division Manager Kansas City, MO 64153 USA Products: Provides lease, sales and service of light truck, commercial and spe- Phone: 816-891-2470 cially-designed mileage tires, retreads, wheels and tire service equipment. 15 Website: www.haldex.com Products: Haldex develops and manufactures brake systems for heavy Continental trucks, trailers and buses. The product offering covers all primary com- Commercial Vehicle Tires - The Americas ponents and subsystems included in complete air brake systems. The 1830 MacMillan Park Drive, Fort Mill, SC 29707 USA operations are conducted through two business units: Air Control and Phone: 704-583-3900 Foundation Brake. 14 Website: www.continentaltire.com Products: Tires for various markets including the bus and motorcoach Marathon Brake Systems industries. 14 See Ad Below 125 Old Mill Rd. Federal-Mogul Corporation Cartersville, GA 30120 USA 26555 Northwestern Highway, Southfield, MI 48033 USA Phone: 770-607-1613 Phone: 248-354-7700 Fax: 770-607-1698 Website: www.federalmogul.com Website: www.marathonbrake.com Products: Various brake-related products including fluids, hydraulics, Company Officers: Bob Hicks, President; Jim Baldwin, Director of lining, pads and shoes, rotors and drums. 14 Fleets T Page 1

High Performance Transit Brake Linings & Air Disc Pads

From North America’s #1 Name in Transit Friction Marathon’s industry leading and OE approved KVT brake linings and DiscStar air disc pads are proven performers for transit and coach lines across the country. KVT and DiscStar are quiet, long life materials that are friendly to drums and rotors. To get the most from your bus brakes, count on Marathon!

See us at Booth 2562 www.MarathonBrake.com

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Products: Marathon Brake Systems manufacture high-performance Michelin North America, Inc. non-asbestos drum brake lining and disc pads for transit buses, motor- P.O. Box 19001, Greenville, SC 29602-9001 USA coaches, school buses, etc. 15 Phone: 864-458-6968 Website: www.michelintruck.com Meritor, Inc. Products: Tires for various markets including the bus and motorcoach 2135 W. Maple Rd., Troy, MI 48084-7121 USA industries. 14 Phone: 248-435-1519 Website: www.meritor.com Motor Coach Tire Sales, LLC Products: Meritor is a global supplier of drivetrain, mobility, braking See Ad Below and aftermarket solutions for commercial vehicle and industrial mar- 1133 4th St., Columbus, GA 31901 USA kets. Meritor supplies more than two million brake assemblies per year Phone: 678-463-4110 for trucks, trailers, buses and coaches. In North America, the Meritor Website: www.motorcoachtiresales.com WABCO joint venture supplies active safety systems such as pneumat- Products: Motor Coach Tire Sales, LLC, was created to provide tires ic and hydraulic anti-lock braking systems. 14 for the motorcoach and tour bus industries. The company partners with Toyo Tires. 14 MGM Brakes 8530 Cliff Cameron Dr., Telma Retarder, Inc. Charlotte, NC 28269 USA 1245 Humbracht Cir. Ste. B, Bartlett, IL 60103 USA 704-547-7411 Phone: 800-797-7714 E-Mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.mgmbrakes.com Website: www.telmausa.com Products: For over 50 years, MGM Brakes has been providing air brake Products: Telma provides frictionless braking systems based on the actuators to the commercial vehicle market, with the addition of MGM’s physical principle of electromagnetic induction. Telma’s expertise in the advanced Electonic Brake Monitoring Systems (e.STROKE) for drum field of induction braking systems has been built from 60 years in the and air disc brake applications. MGM Brakes is an American-owned market. 14 company with products “Made in the U.S.A.” and a global reach. Two ISO-certified manufacturing facilities and technical research centers Webb Wheel Products, Inc. are located in the United States. Developing new solutions to the trans- 2310 Industrial Dr. SW, Cullman, AL 35055 USA portation industry’s needs, from service chambers to double-diaphragm Phone: 800-633-3256, 256-739-6660 and piston-diaphragm spring brakes for use with Wedge, S-Cam or Air Website: www.webbwheel.com Disc Foundation Systems, to the Electronic Brake Monitoring System. Products: For nearly six decades, Webb Wheel Products has been mak- MGM products are available through a global sales and distribution ing wheel-end equipment. This includes brake drums, hubs, rotors and network. 14 spoke wheels. 14. TOYO M144 TIRE NOW BEING USED BY OVER 100 FLEETS!

AFFINITY PARTNER

POSITIVE MARKET FEEDBACK KEEPS ROLLING IN! CUSTOMER STATEMENTS: “We have been using the Toyo tires for over a year and have been impressed with the ride comfort and extended mileage the tires have delivered” • Wes Kanaga • Peoria Charters • Peoria Illinois

“We have been running the Toyo M144 tires for more than a year now and we are impressed with their superior ride, handling, and wear characteristics.” • Scott Habr • West Valley Trailways • Campbell California NEW PROGRAM ADDITIONS: Government/School District Transportation Discounts Available “The Toyo tires have been a great value and great performer for us” Volume Discounts Offered • Ken Dillard • Champion Bus Lines • Greenville S.C. *14 tire minimum order required

For more information contact: www.motorcoachtiresales.com or Call: 678-463-4110

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Premier Coach: Continued From Page 17 “We can teach a person how to drive. With a driver then must complete a week of training, the proper training, 99 percent of the public learning who we are, what we do, and different we can’t do the trip legally with one driver.” could probably be taught to drive a motor- things about the motorcoach industry,” Another major challenge Premier Coach coach,” Charlebois said. “The first and most Charlebois said. “After that, practical in-coach faces, according the Charlebois, is finding driv- important part of hiring a motorcoach operator training begins and is handled by a mentor drivers who fit the company’s operating paradigm. is finding a person who will be a positive repre- er. One thing we don’t do is place a set amount A central element of this challenge is the aging sentative in front of customers. We look for that of hours on training with a mentor.” of current drivers, and the difficulty in attract- more than we look for somebody who has the Every new driver completes the in-house, ing younger people to take their place. perfect driving skills. It is a home run if a weeklong classroom session, whether he or she “I think the problem of attracting younger driver candidate has both the right personal- has had prior experience or not. drivers has much to do with the fact, in today’s ity and is highly skilled, but we would rather “For people who have done this before, we world, it is fully expected that both parents play train someone to drive a vehicle, than try to still make them go through the weeklong class, a role in raising children and home life. Being change his or her personality.” but their practical training on the road with a home at 5 o’clock now is very important to If a new driver candidate does not have a mentor might be short-lived,” Charlebois said. many people,” Charlebois said. “I take nothing CDL (commercial drivers license), Premier “However, with an inexperienced driver, it away from this, but it becomes difficult because Coach’s safety and training officer and a sea- might require much more time. It is really on an most drivers in this industry do not work on a soned driver will work with that person to see if individual basis.” set schedule. They work odd hours that don’t he or she is going to like operating a large vehi- It might seem counterintuitive that a compa- follow a pattern.” cle such as a motorcoach. When it is determined ny that works as hard as Premier Coach to Charlebois said some motorcoach companies the candidate wants to continue the process, the present itself to customers and potential cus- hurt the industry as a whole by not charging company will help him or her obtain a CDL. tomers in a highly professional manner does appropriate prices. This can result in not paying “Once a new driver has his or her CDL, and not require drivers to wear uniforms, but such drivers enough to attract people into the indus- the proper endorsements in hand, the process of is the case. In lieu of uniforms, Premier Coach try. conducting background checks begins,” officials have opted to establish a dress code “We hear about drivers who are paid $12 or Charlebois said. for drivers to follow. $14 an hour. When I hear that, I think to myself, The company conducts criminal background “We have a dress code that calls for driv- ‘This is not attracting new drivers who must and motor vehicle record checks. If the new ers to wear a shirt and tie, slacks and dress work odd hours.’ Pay doesn’t necessarily keep driver passes this stage satisfactorily, he or she shoes,” Charlebois said. “This has been an people, but it helps attract them to the industry.” must undergo a drug screening test. The final issue with which we have wrestled — would In hiring new drivers, Charlebois considers step is a physical exam to make sure he or she it be better to have a uniform, or to maintain finding someone with the right personality for is physically able to do the job. a dress code? We feel the dress code has the job the highest priority. “Once all of that has taken place and passed, enabled our drivers to be who they are. A lot of our drivers will have a tie on that matches the type of work they are doing at a given time. It enables them to have their individuality, yet still ThinkThink FMVSSFMVSS 302302 ProtectsProtects work for a team. I think it helps them be who they are when they are out on the road, and not PassengersPassengers and Equipment?Equipment? necessarily who I want them to be. After all, their personalities, in many cases, is why we hired them in the first place.” Drivers and their sparkling clean motorcoaches also play a crucial role in marketing the company. “We do a lot of Web-based marketing. The standard in the old days was to list a company in the yellow pages. This is still important and we utilize it, but we are aware that not everybody relies on a phone book anymore,” Charlebois said. “However, we think our coaches and our drivers are really who sell our company. They can either do a fantastic job or a ter- rible job. We are proud of our drivers. We think they do a fantastic job. Many times when peo- F.R. Cushioning CR SAFGUARD™ XL ple see our motorcoaches on the road, they will (meets FMVSS 302) Fire-Resistant Cushioning approach a driver and ask about Premier Both seats above were subjected to BS 5852 Source 2 Ignition. Coach.” In getting its name before the public, Premier SAFGUARD™ XL Fire-Resistant Cushioning… Coach also participates in local charitable • Complies with advanced F.T.A. fire safety criteria. events and other activities. • Minimize risk and liability related to vehicle “We had a bus in our fleet that was called the fire safety. ‘Pink Lady.’ It was a breast cancer and brain • O.E.M. and maintenance seat retrofit applications. cancer awareness bus,” Charlebois said. “We Telephone: 800-234-2734 donated money to the American Cancer Society Call for specifications. Easily added to seating Fax: 724-537-9003 based on the amount of miles that motorcoach requirements within vehicle bid packages. e-mail: [email protected] traveled. These types of activities have helped

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create a positive, lasting image to customers and “If we can get a customer in the door, that is helps drive our repeat business.” potential customers that we are about more than great, but a lot of people can do that. If we can While establishing a thriving repeat business just making money. It is a way to give back. maintain that customer and build a relationship, has been an important part of the company’s “When there is a breast cancer fundraising this where we find our most success. Our sales success, Charlebois said the main reason the event, such as a fun run, we usually have a vehi- people understand this very well, and that is company has prospered over the years is its cle present to help shuttle people around. We part of the reason we put a strong emphasis on employees, both past and present. donate those services. We have many fantastic not just using email. Our people know to pick “I can’t stress enough the importance of our drivers who insist on donating their time to sup- up the phone and talk to people once in a people,” Charlebois said. “Our employees’ port a good cause. Currently, we have a new bus while. An email is very easy to say ‘no’ to. An desire to help our company grow, and our com- that we are working on to help raise money and email establishes very little rapport with a mitment to a modern fleet, have led us to where awareness of a syndrome called CHARGE.” customer. Some of the small talk that takes we are today. This was all made possible According to www.chargesyndrome.org, place with everyday customers is lost when because of the foresight my father had in 1992, CHARGE syndrome is a recognizable (genetic) only relying on emails to communicate. to realize this is a market that needs to be pattern of birth defects, which occurs in about “Email is a quick, convenient way to commu- served. one in every 9,000 to 10,000 births worldwide. nicate and is certainly important, but our sales “I definitely think the future of the motor- It is an extremely complex syndrome, involving philosophy is to not rely exclusively on emails coach industry is on a positive track. We are extensive medical and physical difficulties that to interact with customers.” seeing many of the younger generation who are differ from child to child. Babies with When a sales rep establishes a relationship very aware of green transportation. They are CHARGE syndrome are often born with life- with a customer, Premier Coach seeks to pair open to using public transportation. We, and the threatening birth defects, including complex that customer with the same representative industry as a whole, continually educate cus- heart and breathing problems. when possible. This enables the sales person to tomers that motorcoach transportation is one of, establish a rapport with a customer and gives if not the most, green form of transportation. Repeat Business the customer confidence that the company has “We have a total of 120 employees, which is Keeps Wheels Rolling his or her best interest at heart, Charlebois something we take pride in, because there are explained. 120 people who prosper because of Premier ttracting first-time customers is often “The same holds true for our drivers,” he Coach. It is a good feeling.” not that hard, according to Charlebois, said. “Repeat customers often ask for the Ait is keeping them coming back that is a same driver each time they book a trip. This Contact: Premier Coach Co, Inc., focus at Premier Coach. is especially true in college athletics, as 946 Route 7 South, Milton, VT 05468. “We measure success on our ability to main- coaches tend to be superstitious — they Phone: 802-655-4456. tain a proper repeat business,” Charlebois said. always want to have the same driver. This Website: www.premiercoach.net. INSURANCETRANSPORTATION SINCE 1952 SERVICE INSURANCE AGENCY, LLC THE DIAMOND FAMILY #ATAWBA,ANEs2ICHMOND 6!

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Tim O’Bryan %XT Serving The Industry Since 1947 Visit our web site: Made in the U.S.A. serviceins.com diamondmfg.com 800-343-1009 816-421-8363 May/June 2015 BUSLINE Page 41 0515Busline.FINAL_Layout 1 5/1/15 8:11 AM Page 42

Motorcoach Manager: Continued From Page 29 Distinctive Systems: Continued From Page 31

trol of scheduling and dispatching, whether an order calls for one coach ers of the products. or for several coaches, and drivers running at different dates and times. Numerous features and enhancements are constantly being added to When a trip is repeated, the data can be entered once and then dupli- the entire product suite. For example, now available to Distinctive cated to create templates for future trips. In addition to managing all Systems’ clients are driver work tickets sent to smart phones with notifi- kinds of charters, line runs and shuttles not requiring reservations can be cation tracking, integration with GPS vendors, the most comprehensive created in batches and managed with several views of the scheduled trips. Gross Payroll Module in the industry, tour websites enhanced for mobile School bus companies use the charter module effectively for sports and devices, integration with multiple financial systems and a comprehensive field trips, as well as for routes. Tire Management Module. Motorcoach Maintenance Manager complements the charter mod- This list is just a few of the many enhancements that have been added ule by keeping a history of equipment maintenance. Parts are tracked to the systems over the past years. This tradition of innovative function- from the purchase to the use on a vehicle, and a parts inventory is main- ality enhancements will continue in the future. Be sure to watch tained. The software can be used to invoice maintenance work done for Distinctive Systems closely. For further details, or to arrange a no-obli- outside companies. It tracks scheduled preventive maintenance and gation demonstration, call 646-448-9981, send an email to nasales@dis- remembers what work needs to be done on each piece of equipment. The tinctive-systems.com and/or visit www.distinctive-systems.com/us. parts inventory can handle separate inventories for multiple garages. Motorcoach Tour Manager, also available as Tour Optimizer for com- Espar Rebrands To Eberspaecher panies that don’t own motorcoaches, simplifies the creation of group or retail tours by developing and costing itineraries, taking reservations, selling tick- Premiering at the Mid-America Trucking Show (MATS) in Louisville, ets to groups or individuals, creating rooming lists, name and luggage tags, KY, in early April, Espar began using its new name, Eberspaecher. Since etc. It tracks payments to hotels and attractions. Once a tour package has 1973, Espar has delivered Eberspaecher German technology to the North been developed, it can be used again on a new date or for a different group. American marketplace. Eberspaecher, a family-owned company, is cele- Companies running regular shuttles with reservations can use brating its 150-year anniversary in 2015. Espar has announced it will offi- Motorcoach Shuttle Manager. Daily shuttles can be pre-entered in cially assume the Eberspaecher name in the marketplace, while still batches and passengers can be quickly booked onto the correct shuttle. maintaining “Espar” as a legal business entity. Round trip tickets are issued and various reports on the number of riders, “Based on user feedback and a deep-rooted commitment to customer cash receipts, etc. are produced. The shuttle manager requires the charter satisfaction, rebranding our company is a logical transition that will module to manage the trips. enable us to provide customers with 150 years of expertise, improved global support and a greater investment in research and development that For more information, call Motorcoach Manager at 800-780-6880 or only a company as large as Eberspaecher can provide,” according to the visit www.motorcoachmanager.com or www.motorcoachmanager.net. company. Visit www.eberspaecher-na.com for more information.

The Last Step in Arriving Safely

BRAT LE IN E G

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Y C E N A E R L S EL .net OF EXC

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Royal Star Hawaii Adds Temsa Mini-Coaches To Its Fleet

Royal Star Hawaii has two new Gold TEMSA TS 30 Series mini- coaches suited for groups of up to 34 passengers. “With our new mini-coaches, we’re able to provide more transportation options for smaller meeting groups, wedding parties, and even family reunions,” said Marc Rubenstein, vice president and general manager for Royal Star Hawaii Motorcoach Tours & Destination Services. “They may be smaller in size but they have the same deluxe comfort, amenities, and reliability of our full size signature Gold fleet motor- Home of the Best Full-Service coaches, including a large restroom, and they are more economical to operate, so we can pass those savings on to our customers.” Travel Plaza in Northern Illinois Featuring…

Seating for 175, Homestyle Cooking, Daily Specials, Buffet, Soup & Salad Bar, Full Menu, Carry-Out (815) 562-5840 The new 34-seat mini-coaches feature designer upholstery, reclining chairs with adjustable foot rests, individual lighting, air conditioning controls and large tinted windows with adjustable shades. The mini- coaches also include an audio/DVD video system with microphone and flat screens. The kneeling feature allows for easy access boarding. Serving Hawaii since 1996, Royal Star Hawaii is a subsidiary of Stars of Paradise Tours & Attractions. Visit www.royalstarhawaii.com. Seating for 40, Specialty Sandwiches, Custom Coach Buys 2 More Temsas Stromboli, Fresh Salads & Pizza, Hand-Dipped Ice Cream! A company that began with one, 25-passenger mini-coach over 25 years ago has grown into a transportation company with a fleet of 45 (815) 561-9595 vehicles. Custom Coach & Limousine, located in Portland, ME, provides ground transportation throughout the New England area and Designated Bus Parking and beyond, to customers for corporate events, airport transfers, weddings and school trips. The company’s fleet is comprised of motorcoaches, Pull-Thru Fueling Island mini-buses, school buses, sedans, and limousines. For more information on Custom Coach & Limousine, visit www.customcoachandlimo.com. Bus Drivers & Tour Gregg Isherwood, president of Custom Coach & Limousine, took delivery of his first Temsa TS 30 coach in 2014. Recently, he took delivery of his second and third, TS 30 mid-size Guides Eat free! coaches. Custom Coach’s 34 passenger coaches are equipped with 110V plugs, Mini-Mall — 2 Stores cordless mic, rear camera, rear window, an A/V system, and woodgrain floors. with over 5,000 sq. ft. of shopping! CH Bus Sales, Inc. is the exclusive distributor of TEMSA motorcoaches in the United States. ATM,Major Credit Cards accepted. Visit www.chbussales.com for more information. I-39 & Hwy 38, Exit 99 Rochelle, IL OPEN 24 HOURS Please call ahead!

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News From MCI MCI Adds 2 Technical Solution Managers For Canada Executive Coach Adds 2015 MCI® J4500 Jeff Antoine has joined MCI as a TSM for the Ontario region, and In 1979, former coach driver, Elvin McMichael founded his own compa- Remi Levesque is the TSM responsible for Northeastern Canada, ny, Lancaster, PA-based Executive Coach, with three other partners, a pre- including Quebec. Both Antoine and Levesque report to Dan Besserer, owned MCI and a plan to move to new models when financially feasible. MCI director of customer solutions and technical services. Today, Executive Coach, now family-owned by McMichael and his “These new positions follow MCI’s other son, Dale, has a 16- moves and investments to provide Canadian coach fleet, including 14 operators with top-notch service,” said com- late-model MCI coaches pany representatives. and a new 2015 MCI® Antoine joins MCI with a 12-year career in J4500 delivered in the automotive industry, including experi- March. ence as a technician and as a dealership shop Executive Coach’s lat- foreman. Based in Cambridge, Ontario, out- est J4500 has Wi-Fi and side Toronto, Antoine will cover a territory that includes all of Ontario, where he will full passenger electron- Jeff Antoine ics. Executive Coach serve private-sector operators of MCI and serves tourist, organiza- Setra coaches and public-sector operators of tional, corporate and the MCI Commuter Coach. school clients and now works with tour partners around the world includ- Levesque has a 15-year career as a coach ing Bob Neff Tours, Westlake Tours, Lowee’s Group Tours and the and bus technician. He was previously lead American Tour Guide Association. shop supervisor for First Canada, a division Visit www.executivecoach.net for more information. of First Transit. Levesque has expertise in Motor Coach Industries (MCI), headquartered in Des Plaines, IL, is an electrical systems and HVAC, holding Setra intercity coach manufacturer in the United States and Canada, with sales, certification in HVAC maintenance and service and repair facilities in both countries. MCI is also the distributor repair. In addition to supporting MCI and of the Setra S 417, Setra S 407 and Setra parts in the United States and Setra coach owners in Northeastern Canada, Remi Levesque Canada. The company offers 24-hour technical support and technician Levesque will also train and assist operators training, along with extensive aftermarket parts and repair service. in other parts of Canada when needed. MCI also recently moved its Montreal MCI Sales and Service Center to a larger location at 3550 rue Saint-Patrick, renovating the building and adding state-of-the-art diagnostics and equipment as well as more mechanics. The new site also has more space for repair and parts inventory.

GGHVLJHVLJQHQHGIRUG IRU Guy Vachon Joins MCI As Vice President Aftermarket Sales 0RWRU&RDFK0RWRU0 W &RDFK& DQG7UDQVLW%XV7UDQVLW %XV Guy Vachon has joined MCI as vice president of aftermarket sales. 7KH'HO6WDU6HULHVDOWHUQDWRUVDUHDQLQWHJUDOFKDUJLQJ Vachon is responsible for MCI Service Parts’ PSM (regional parts V\VWHPRIDQLQQRYDWLYHEUXVKOHVVGHVLJQ7KHFRPSDFW +LJK2XWSXW solutions managers) field representation, and also oversees the man- KHDY\GXW\FRQVWUXFWLRQSURYLGHVLQFUHDVHGVHUYLFHOLIH %UXVKOHVV agement of large national accounts and the H[SHFWHGWRPDWFKWKHORQJHUPDLQWHQDQFHLQWHUYDOVRI $LU&RROHG strategic direction of the customer service WRGD\¶VHQJLQHVZKLOHSURYLGLQJDSHUIRUPDQFHOHYHO /LJKW:HLJKW support team. ZLWKRXWSDUDOOHO &RPSDFW Vachon, who reports to Wolfgang Winzer, MCI vice president and general manager of 6HULHV6HULHV aftermarket, will be based at MCI headquarters in Des Plaines, IL. 9$PSV 6HULHV6HULHV /%6 .* /%6 Jim Stibgen is now director of customer 9$PSV9 $PSV service and continues to manage the cus- /%6 .* tomer service support teams, including the call center at MCI Service Parts in Guy Vachon Louisville, KY. He reports to Vachon and will support him in the management of key accounts. Vachon formerly held several sales, marketing and planning leadership positions in the commercial vehicle industry. Prior to joining MCI, Vachon was director of aftermarket sales and service with $SHUIHFWGURSLQIRUDOO Morgan Olson, a truck body manufacturer. He also was general FUDGOHPRXQWDSSOLFDWLRQV 77\SHPRXQW manager of the Daimler-owned SelecTrucks Center in Chicago, and also held leadership positions with Navistar, Hendrickson, and &$1$'$ (;32576$/(6 Federal-Mogul. 'L[LH(OHFWULF/WG 7HO %DVDOWLF5RDG )D[ MCI Service Parts is also upgrading its call-center software and is &RQFRUG21 (PDLOVDOHV#GL[LHHOHFWULFFRP making improvements to its online Parts Store. &DQDGD/.: ZZZGL[LHHOHFWULFFRP Visit www.mcicoach.com for more information. Page 44 BUSLINE May/June 2015 0515Busline.FINAL_Layout 1 5/1/15 8:11 AM Page 45

Allied Specialty Vehicles Has Industry Partnership With CleanFUEL USA Allied Specialty Vehicles (ASV), a manufac- The partnership agreement calls for turer of motor vehicles for commercial, fire and CleanFUEL USA’s propane autogas systems emergency and recreation markets, has formed currently installed by third-party upfitters to an exclusive partnership with CleanFUEL be transitioned to ASV factory certified USA. The company will provide products and installations. Sullivan says this change will services to expand ASV’s line of alternative offer customers a full OEM warranty, fuel vehicles, including propane autogas. increase installation efficiency and improve “ASV has a long relationship working with overall quality control. The two companies CleanFUEL USA on propane autogas fleet will also work together to develop customer installations for type A school buses at Collins service centers that will offer spare parts Bus. Expanding this relationship across all and maintenance services for a full suite of ASV vehicle brands will increase the breadth of CleanFUEL USA propane autogas systems propane autogas systems we can offer to our for multiple ASV product lines and their customers,” ASV President and CEO Tim customers. Sullivan said. “We’re proud of our commitment ASV is a manufacturer of brands serving Jeff Armstead Promoted to offer green energy alternative fuel options commercial, fire and emergency and recre- such as propane that have long-term benefits to ational vehicle markets. At ProAir the environment.” Visit www.alliedsv.com for more information. ProAir, LLC has promoted Jeff Armstead to ADVERTORIAL vice president of sales & marketing. Complete Coach Works Delivers Compressed Natural Armstead now directs Gas (CNG) Fleet To Garden City Sanitation the company’s sales & marketing depart- Complete Coach Works (CCW) has community. CCW is proud to have been given ment, and develops announced it is in the process of completing the opportunity to assist GCS in becoming the new business oppor- the final delivery of 47 repowered compressed first of its industry to transition into alternative tunities both domesti- natural gas (CNG) heavy-duty garbage trucks fuel systems. cally and globally. to Garden City Sanitation (GCS). Complete Coach Works is the largest U.S. Armstead will take Jeff Armstead The project supports the City of San Jose’s bus remanufacturing company and the leading a greater responsibil- efforts to reduce the carbon footprint by limit- provider of a vast array of transportation solu- ity in the strategic planning and implementation ing greenhouse gas emissions. The job tions with more than 28 years of dedicated of projects involving the overall organization. specifics include: installing new engines, radi- service in the industry. Armstead is presently in his 10th year with ator assembly, and a remanufactured transmis- CCW strives to continually provide cleaner ProAir, and previously served as the company’s sion to assure the longevity of the new CNG air through innovative design and engineer- national sales manager. power train system. One of CCW’s most ing, resulting in the world’s first and only ProAir designs, manufactures, and markets notable feats in this project is the innovative remanufactured all-electric powered bus. climate systems for the specialty vehicle indus- development of a fueling tank system, which Developed exclusively by CCW, the Zero try. Facilities are maintained in Elkhart, IN, and allowed the mounting of the CNG tanks Emission Propulsion System (ZEPS) drive Ontario, CA. ProAir is a holding company of behind the cab. system technology provides customers a KODA Enterprises Group, of Waltham, MA. “The CNG trucks are quieter, perform clean, cost effective and viable alternative to Call 574-264-5494 or visit www.proairllc.com. well, and keep costs low for everybody,” said fuel, with the ability to be integrated into any GCS General Manager Steve Jones. “With fleet, helping communities further support the only positive feedback, we believe CCW environment for future generations to come. Cincinnati Metro Adds 5 gave us the most effective way to continue to Whether the need is for collision repair, do business.” interior rehab, a completely remanufactured New ‘Mini-Hybrids’ Converting to a CNG fleet saves the utility vehicle, repower to alternative fuel conver- Cincinnati Metro added five new “mini- company 30 percent in fuel costs on a 67 gal- sions such as CNG, LNG, or LPG, meeting hybrid” buses that went into service on Earth lon tank, versus a conventional diesel engine ADA or emission compliance, wheelchair lifts Day. It is planning to add 32 additional “mini- system. Jones said the repower total per unit or ramps, bike rack installations, diesel partic- hybrids” by the end of May. These additions cost comes in under $150,000, in comparison ulate filter (DPF) cleaning systems, multiplex- will bring Metro’s “mini-hybrid” total to 115, to new CNG models, which can cost upwards ing, HVAC and PLC systems servicing and along with the 27 hybrid buses already in of $400,000. The project will continue to save upgrades, exterior detailing and paint job, Metro’s 356 bus fleet. GCS millions of dollars over time through low CCW will meet its customers’ needs at a rea- The “mini-hybrid” buses use thermal cooling maintenance and fuel costs. sonable cost. Regardless of how small or large technology. GCS is the first city-contracted hauler to the job, CCW’s exceptionally experienced Other examples of Metro’s environmentally commit an entire fleet to converting to CNG, team of over 350 experts are committed to friendly practices, include: using rainwater to resulting in an eight year extension from the customer service and satisfaction. wash buses; burning waste oil to heat garages; City of San Jose. The extension allows the Contact Celeste Casas at 800-287-7253 recycling and reusing motor fluids such as trucks to run for 14 years, during which GCS or e-mail [email protected] antifreeze, refrigerant and power steering fluid; will continue to provide quality services to its for more information. and, recycling paper, plastic and cans. Visit www.go-metro.com. May/June 2015 BUSLINE Page 45 0515Busline.FINAL_Layout 1 5/1/15 8:11 AM Page 46

Motor Coach Industries Motor Coach Industries

MCI® Commuter Coach MCI® J4500 The MCI Commuter Coach, based on the best-selling D-Series An 11-year industry best-seller, the MCI J4500 provides premium model, is the preferred vehicle on long-distance express routes workhorse reliability and significant fuel economy gains. because of its passenger comfort and safety at higher speeds. Independent Bosch testing shows the J4500 to be 6 to 8.4 percent Safety technologies include electronic stability control (which helps more fuel-efficient than its nearest competitors, and other data secure directional stability), fire suppression systems and optional point to the model’s low total cost of operation and excellent resid- three-point passenger seatbelts. ual value. The MCI Commuter Coach offers a highly competitive per-seat In addition to its BMW USA-designed good looks, the J4500 price, and workhorse reliability — proven by a recent National comes equipped with electronic stability control, fire suppression Transit Database Maintenance report which finds the MCI Commuter and tire monitoring systems, and features a new ZF independent Coach to have 191 percent fewer failures per vehicle than BRT and front suspension, offering a turning radius nearly seven feet tighter 55 percent fewer than typical transit buses. than before. A new Bendix braking system delivers car-like control, Increasing fuel economy and helping public transit agencies along with the optional Bendix Wingman Advanced, a collision miti- advance their clean-energy goals also factor into MCI’s engineering. gation technology that uses a forward-mounted radar sensor to That’s why the MCI Commuter Coach is available in clean-diesel; issue warnings and prompt active driver intervention to help avoid diesel electric and CNG engine configurations. Options also include incidents. 110-volt outlets, USB plugs and Wi-Fi. Options also include 110-volt outlets, USB plugs and Wi-Fi. MCI’s investments in service and support, and excellent residual value, Motor Coach Industries; 200 East Oakton St., add to a coach that provides exceptional performance for years to Des Plaines, IL 60018; 847-285-2000; 800-428-7626; come. Fax: 847-285-2013 • Email: [email protected]; Website: www.mcicoach.com Motor Coach Industries; 200 East Oakton St., Des Plaines, IL 60018; 847-285-2000; 800-428-7626; Fax: 847-285-2013 • Email: [email protected]; Website: www.mcicoach.com

Model ...... MCI J4500 Seating Capacity...... 56 Length ...... 45.58’ Model ...... MCI® Commuter Coach Hybrid/CNG Height ...... 140.74” Passenger Capacity...... 57, 49 Headroom ...... 78.25” Length...... 45’40” Turning Radius...... 47’ Height ...... 11’5” Wheelbase...... 315” Interior Height...... 78.25” Floor - Low or standard...... Standard Engine Options ...... Cummins ISL, ISX or ISL G Engine Options...... Cummins ISX, Detroit Diesel DD 13 Transmission Options ...... Allison B500, Allison B500R, Transmission ...... Allison B500 or, ZF Astronic Allison EP 50 Hybrid Drive Chassis ...... Monocoque Fuel Tank Capacity...... 164 gal. – CNG 114.6 Diesel Gallon Fuel Tank Capacity...... 183 gal. Equivalent (DGE) Fuel Options...... Ultra low sulfur diesel Fuel Options...... Clean-diesel, hybrid, CNG Brakes...... Meritor all-wheel EX-225 disc GVWR ...... 50,000 lbs., 46,000 lbs. GVWR ...... 54,000 lbs.

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Motor Coach Industries ABC Companies

Setra S 417 Best-in-class: Exemplifying exclusive European styling, German engineering and custom-tailored luxury, the Setra S 417 Ameritrans E-Series - Eco-Charge Top Class offers more choices, with a second door, club corner All Electric Bus “0” Emissions lounge seating, premium fabrics and galleys. Comfort and ambi- Built on a Ford Chassis, the E-series ZEV (Zero Emissions ence delight passengers, and the optional TopSky and rear win- Vehicle) coach transports up to 12 passengers in style and com- dow offer the best views anywhere. fort. It offers many features and custom built-to-order options A true driver’s vehicle, the S 417 features an IFS suspension that Ameritrans vehicles bring to the mid-size transport market. system for a smooth, quiet ride. Proprietary safety features The Ameritrans Eco-Charge is designed to optimize the integra- include front collision guard, cornering lights and rain/light sen- tion of a zero emission vehicle into a fleet. sors. Vehicle monitoring capabilities, with integrated tire monitoring and an onboard diagnostics system, ensure that drivers ABC Companies and maintenance professionals are ideally equipped to increase 1506 30th Street, NW uptime. Faribault, MN 55021 USA Ph: 507-334-1871 Motor Coach Industries; 200 East Oakton St., Fax: 507-334-0246 Des Plaines, IL 60018; 847-285-2000; 800-428-7626; Email: [email protected] Fax: 847-285-2013 • Email: [email protected]; Website: www.ameritransbus.com Website: www.mcicoach.com

Model...... TopClass S 417 Model...... Ameritrans E-Series ZEV Seating Capacity...... 56 Seating Capacity...... Up to 12 passengers with 12 high back rear Length...... 45’ passenger seats; Two side mount double foldaways; Height...... 12’ Two ceiling mounted overhead grab rails Headroom ...... 6.6’ Engine...... Motiv’s ePCS (electric-Powertrain Turning Radius ...... 481.7” Control System) Wheelbase...... 280” All Electric Powertrain Floor - Low or Standard...... Standard 150kW/200hp electric motor Engine ...... Mercedes-Benz OM 471 EPA 10 450 hp Type of Fuel ...... Powered by advanced sodium-nickel battery with Transmission...... Allison B 500R or, ZF Astronic 12-speed on-board 208 - 480V 60kW charger Chassis...... Monocoque Integral Chassis...... Full-welded galvaneal steel cage construction. Fuel Tank Capacity...... 180 gal. Chassis upfitting by Roush Industries Engineering Fuel Options...... Ultra low sulfur diesel Wheelchair Lift Option ...... Front mounted wheelchair lift, Two Brakes - Air or Hydraulic...... Knorr disc brakes wheelchair positions with slide and click tie-down system GVWR...... 50,534 lbs. Suspension...... Mor/Ryde suspension system

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Champion Bus Champion Bus

LF Transport™ The LF Transport™ with FLEXBUS® Technology represents Defender F-550 the next generation of innovative vehicles that are designed The Champion Defender F-550 is the epitome of mid-size to exceed the expectations of today’s passengers and opera- vehicles that will exceed customer, owner, and operator expec- tors. By utilizing the latest advancements in transit vehicle tations. The Defender is built on the F-450/550, with a minimum manufacturing, the Champion LF Transport™ provides that GVWR starting at 15,000 pounds to allow for increased passen- very best in vehicle accessibility, without compromising relia- ger capacities up to 33 passengers. There are lift equipped ADA bility and safety. options for buses, along with multiple fuel options, such as The combination of accessibility design features, such as gasoline, diesel or Ford OEM Engine Gaseous Prep Package the EqualizerRamp®-single slope entry, the 102-inch wide true Alternative Fuels. flat floor passenger area and a level vehicle provided by the By utilizing the latest advancements in transit vehicle manu- kneeling suspension system, offer a universally accessible facturing, the Defender provides the very best in vehicle acces- vehicle for all riders. sibility, along with reliability and safety of the steel tube cage construction.

Champion Bus, Inc. Champion Bus, Inc. 331 Graham Rd., Imlay City, MI 48444 331 Graham Rd., Imlay City, MI 48444 Ph: 810-724-1753 ext. 265 Ph: 810-724-1753 ext. 265 Fax: 810-724-6478 Fax: 810-724-6478 Website: www.championbus.com Website: www.championbus.com Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]

Model...... FlexBus™ Seating Capacity ...... Up to 20 Passengers or 6 Wheelchair locations Model ...... Defender F550 Length...... 23’-27’ Seating Capacity...... 21-33 passengers Width ...... 102” Length...... 25’ - 32’ Height...... 111” Width...... 94” Engine...... Ford - 6.8L GAS-EFI-V10; Height...... 118.75” GM - 6.0L VORTEC GAS-SFI-V8; 6.6L DURAMAX DSL-V8 Engine...... 6.7L Diesel and 6.8L Gas Transmission...... OEM Transmission...... OEM Air Conditioning...... Many Options Available Air Conditioning...... Many Options Available Steering...... OEM Steering...... Ford OEM Type of Fuel...... Gas, Diesel, CNG and LPG Type of Fuel...... CNG, Propane

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Nova Bus Glaval Bus

Glaval Titan II Low Floor LFS HEV® (Hybrid Electric Vehicle) Whether it’s a wheelchair passenger, business traveler or an Based on the proven performance of the LFS platform, the LFS HEV® elderly rider, the Titan II LF eliminates the need for steps to (Hybrid Electric Vehicle) upgrades its already advanced fuel-efficient enter or exit the vehicle. There is also no longer a need for the engineering by adding a powerful, ultra-low emissions hybrid drive to traditional wheelchair lift. The Titan II LF is offered with either a cut fuel and maintenance costs. Braun or Ricon bi-fold power ramp. This new low floor kneeling Given optimal operating conditions, the LFS HEV offers up to 30 per- bus utilizes the rugged Chevy G4500 chassis platform along cent reduction in fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions compared to conventional diesel-powered buses. Other benefits include with a heavy-duty “Purpose-Built” chassis and floor structure a significant reduction in noise levels, particularly at the rear of the designed and produced by Spartan Chassis. vehicle and outside. One of the most impressive features of the Titan II LF is the Nova Bus offers two different types of hybrid systems: parallel and 4-corner, self-leveling air-ride suspension with kneeling capabil- series. In both parallel and series vehicles, braking energy normally lost ity. With the touch of one switch, the complete unit will kneel to as heat is recuperated through a generator and stored in the rooftop achieve a 1:6 ramp slope which exceeds ADA’s current minimum, batteries. That’s why hybrid technologies are best suited for frequent at the same time providing a level floor surface for all wheel- stop-and-go conditions. chair positions. The Titan II LF offers true random access for up Also available, the high-capacity LFS Artic HEV is an attractive alter- to 5 wheelchair positions, or can seat up to 21 ambulatory pas- native for growing cities focused on sustainable development. Starts sengers. With Glaval’s reputation for building a quality product, and stops are smooth and the ride is stable, even in snowy conditions; the Titan II LF is sure to help make life easier. the end result is a more enjoyable passenger experience. Developing vehicles to help cities meet their sustainability objec- Glaval Bus tives is part of Nova Bus’ vision to be the leader in green efficiency and 914 CR #1 North Electro Mobility. Elkhart, IN 46514 Nova Bus: 260 Banker Road, Plattsburgh, NY 12901 Ph: 574-343-5107 518-566-6682 • Fax: 518-957-2002 Fax: 574-264-4259 Email: [email protected] www.glavalbus.com Website: www.novabus.com Email: [email protected]

Model ...... LFS HEV Model...... Glaval Titan II LF Seating Capacity...... up to 41 Seating Capacity...... 21-pax or 5 W/Chair Length...... 40’ Overall Length ...... 24’, 26’ and 28’ Width ...... 102” Exterior Width...... 96” Height...... 132” Exterior Height ...... 110” (Exc. Roof A/C, Roof Hatch) Engine ...... Cummins ISB 6.7 280 HP, Interior Width...... 92” Cummins ISL 8.9 330 HP Interior Height...... 78” Behind Rear Wheel/81” in Front Traction Drive...... Allison H 40 EP, BAE HDS200 Wheelbase ...... 166”, 190” & 214” Chassis...... Stainless Steel Integral GVWR ...... 14,200-lb. Fuel ...... Diesel-electric Hybrid Engine ...... Chevy Vortec 6.0L V8 Gas or CNG option, Air Conditioning...... Thermo King Athenia, MCC and also now available with DuraMax Diesel Wheelchair Lift Option...... Lift-U, Fedico Transmission...... 6-Speed Automatic Steering...... TRW TAS85 Chassis ...... Chevy G4500 Suspenion...... ZF Type Of Fuel...... Diesel, Gas & CNG

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CTAA Expo 2015 Set For May 31 Through June 5 In Tampa

Two-Day Classes (June 1-2) The Community Transportation Association of America • Certified Community Transit Supervisory (CCTS); (CTAA) EXPO 2015 is scheduled for May 31-June 5, at the • Professional Dispatching and Scheduling (PDS); Tampa Convention Center, Tampa, FL. Below are some of • Certified Safety and Security Officer (CSSO); this year’s activities and learning opportunities: • Preparing for the CCTM and CTPA Examination; Schedule At A Glance • Transit Network Design Course; and, • Transit 1 Foundations. Sunday, May 31 One-Day Classes (June 1) • National Community Transportation Roadeo; and, • Transit Marketing for Community and Public Transportation; and, • National Community Transportation Roadeo Awards • Ridesharing Expanding Transit Options in Your Community. Banquet. One-Day Classes (June 2) Monday, June 1 • Developing Policies and Procedures for Transit; • Conference Intensive Training Sessions; • Financial Management for Transit Agencies; • Mini-Conference - Implementing Technology (Day 1); • Find & Retain the Best, Engage or Confront the Rest; and, and, • Leading Creative Thinking in Your Organization. • 2015 State and Tribal Delegates Meeting (by invitation only). Tuesday, June 2 Professional Development Workshops (June 3, 9-10:30 a.m.) • Conference Intensive Training Sessions; Ridesharing • You Can Harness the Synergy of Transit and Bikeshare Programs • Mini-Conference - Implementing Technology (Day 2); Harnessing New Technology • Mini-Conference - Volunteer Transportation; • Personalization of Transportation • Community Transportation Conference Luncheon; and, The Changing Role of Community Transportation • EXPO 2015 Trade Show Opening and Reception. • Where is Community Transportation Headed? Wednesday, June 3 Improving Service Delivery • Conference Intensive Training Sessions; • Holistic Customer Service: Delivering Successful Paratransit Trips • Community Transportation Awards Breakfast; From Beginning to End; • Professional Development Leadership Sessions; • Creating the Nation’s First Transit-Community Center: An Example • General Session; of Rural Transit Oriented Development; and, • Community Transportation Trade Fair and Luncheon; • The Bridge Between Fixed-Route and Demand-Response • Professional Development Information Sessions; Transportation: Flexible Service Routes Communications • Educational Tours; and, • Let’s Go To The Video Tape • Evening: PechaKucha Slam. Developing Better Outcomes Thursday, June 4 • Beyond the Silo: Strategies for Effective Health/Transportation • Professional Development Leadership Sessions; Sector Collaboration • Community Transportation Trade Fair and Luncheon; Tribal Transit •Idea Cafes; and, • Tribal Transit and Access to Healthcare •EXPO’s Big Night Out: Dinner and entertainment. Friday, June 5 Professional Development Workshops (June 3, 3:15-4:45 p.m.) • Happy Trails Farewell Breakfast. Harnessing New Technology • Don’t Be Afraid of Your Data: Make Your NTD Reporting Work For You Trade Fair The Changing Role of Community Transportation EXPO organizers consider the 2015 Community Transportation Trade • New Initiatives and New Staff: A Focus on Rural and Specialized Fair as the highlight of the event. The Trade Fair includes the most com- Programs from the FTA; and, prehensive collection of community transportation vendors, manufactur- • Procurement for Small and Medium Transit Systems ers and consultants assembled on an annual basis. Whatever you are look- Improving Service Delivery ing for, you will find it on our Trade Fair floor. Attendees can meet the • Safety Management Systems (SMS) for Executives; vendors, compare products and take an in-depth look at the newest prod- • Improving Service by Involving Our Customers; and, ucts and services available for the community transportation industry. • Community Transportation and People with Disabilities Tentative Trade Show Hours Communications • June 1: Vehicle move-in (noon-3 p.m.) • Apps, Apps, and More Apps: Making Them Work for You • June 2: Exhibitor move-in (8 a.m.-4 p.m.) Developing Better Outcomes Opening Reception (5-7 p.m.) • Regionalization On Your Terms: Proactive Strategies to Serve • June 3: Trade Show Grand Opening with Box Lunch (noon-3 p.m.) Changing Communities • June 4: Trade Show Open with Box Lunch (noon-2 p.m.) Tribal Transit Exhibitor move-out (3-9 p.m.) • The Money Issue: Financing and Funding Tribal Transit

Intensive Sessions Professional Development Workshops (June 4, 8:30-10:30 a.m.) Three-Day Classes (June 1-3) Ridesharing • Vehicle Maintenance Management and Inspection (VMMI); and, • Aren’t You Really a Mobility Agency? Why The Vanpool Works for Transit • Passenger Service and Safety (PASS) Train the Trainer Workshop Harnessing New Technology Page 50 BUSLINE May/June 2015 0515Busline.FINAL_Layout 1 5/1/15 8:11 AM Page 51

The annual Community Transportation EXPO is your chance to join colleagues from around the nation in a setting dedicated to fresh ideas, innovative products and services, network- ing and learning. EXPO is a meeting place for people who want to expand their horizons on issues of mobility, transportation and how to build strong communities. People who attend EXPO are operators of community transportation systems, drivers, supervisors, dispatchers, safety and security ofﬁcers, local planners, mobility managers, workforce development professionals, elected ofﬁcials, federal, state and local government administrators and anyone interested in building a more safe and mobile society.

Why Should You Attend?

This year’s conference brings us to Tampa, Fla., and the Tampa Convention Center. The EXPO 2014 host hotel is the Tampa Marriott Waterside. In addition to the important discussions on the legislative front, there will be dozens of training sessions, workshops and net- working events that will allow you to advance your understanding of transit issues, develop fresh solutions to challenging issues and help you outline new approaches to your work.

Fore more information, visit: www.ctaa.org/expo 0515Busline.FINAL_Layout 1 5/1/15 8:11 AM Page 52

• Promising Practices in One-Call, One-Click Services News From ABC Companies The Changing Role of Community Transportation • Embracing Innovation: Directing Your System Into the Future Iowa-Based Windstar Lines Purchases 5 Improving Service Delivery 2015 Van Hool CX 2045s • Is Your Drug and Alcohol Testing Program in Compliance with DOT Founded in 1995, with the whole family involved, Carroll, IA-based Regulations?; Windstar Lines (www.gowindstar.com) has grown with added locations in • Fostering Safety and Security in Community Transportation; and, Cedar Rapids, Dubuque, Des Moines, Lincoln, NE, and Rochelle, IL. With • Implementing and Sustaining Successful Travel Training Programs: a recent move into the Kansas City market, the fleet has now grown to 75 Examples from the Field motorcoaches, offering luxury tours, convention planning and charter serv- Developing Better Outcomes ice in Iowa and Illinois as well as portions of Nebraska. • Nimbleness Gets the Prize: Innovative Strategies for Delivering Health Care Transportation; • No Senior Left Behind: Providing Premier Transportation Service for Older Adults; • Riding the Wave: Building Ladders of Opportunity for Youth with Disabilities through Education & Transit Partnerships; and, • Solving Job Access Needs: One Challenge, Two Solutions, across Three States • 217-268-4959 • FAX 217-268-4815 Idea Cafes (June 4, 2:30-4:30 p.m.) T Idea Cafes will be about stepping out of the traditional conference In addition, Windstar Vice President Scott Greteman said they operate model involving presentations selected months beforehand and panels of another 10 minicoaches, Sprinter Vans, and 3 school buses. speakers. Sessions will give EXPO attendees the opportunity to share Windstar recently took delivery of 5 new 2015 Van Hool CX204s. They questions, ideas, insights or group brainstorming of specific topics in are equipped with wood-grain flooring, leather passenger seats, a multi- interactive discussions. Conference attendees will be able to submit ideas monitor DVD entertainment system and Van Hool's rear passenger window before and during the conference. side-view cameras. Idea sessions include:

• Enhancing Communications and Leadership - Communications; San Diego’s Goldfield Stages • Understanding Alternative Transportation - Ridesharing; Adds 2 New 2015 Van Hool CXs

• Healthcare & Transportation: Succeeding in the New Era - “It’s the classic bus industry story,” said Goldfield Stages' Kevin Improving Service Delivery; McClintock. “In 1978, I was a 19 year old washing buses at a big Los • Implementing Strategic Redesign & Innovations - The Changing Angeles-based coach company and training to be a driver. I got the bug, and Role of Community Transportation; in 1984 my wife, Dalyce, and I moved to San Diego. We started Goldfield • Tribal Transit: Moving Forward - Tribal Transit; with two used 35-foot coaches. Dalyce handled sales and administrative • Smart Financing for Your Agency’s Future - Developing Better duties, while I did maintenance, bus washing and driving.” Outcomes; and, Since that time Goldfield (www.goldfieldstage.com) has become San • State Associations: Exchanging Ideas - The Changing Role of Diego’s second largest bus company, with charter vehicles ranging from a Community Transportation. 13-passenger executive van to 29- and 30-passenger mini-coaches and 25 full-size motorcoaches. General Sessions The scale of the challenges faced by community and public transportation providers, combined with the accelerating speed of innovation in transit technology and service design, demands a new approach to leadership. To succeed in this new era, industry leaders must rethink old habits and challenge the conventional wisdom and industry models that have defined our world. This year’s EXPO general sessions are designed to deliver the vital information to succeed.

Transit Roadeo The National Community Transit Roadeo is the only national venue to Specializing in luxury charters, McClintock said the company tries to honor and celebrate the value of rural and community transit operators, exceed customer's expectations on every trip, “Our customer service is not the backbone of the community transportation industry. This exciting by accident — we periodically hire an outside consultant to do customer event draws drivers from around the country to compete for top scores on service training for the entire company.” a course that tests skills on every level of drivers’ abilities. The major growth came in 2007 when Goldfield purchased another local All EXPO participants are invited to attend and recognize not only the company and doubled in size overnight. best drivers in the nation, but the invaluable role drivers play in commu- Goldfield recently took delivery of two new 2015 Van Hool CXs from nity and public transportation. ABC Companies, Van Hool's exclusive North American distributor. “Our fleet is primarily made up of Van Hool coaches. We've found them Special Events to be very reliable, easy to work on, with great support by ABC, and most June 3: CTAA Awards Breakfast: Toast The Best With Toast! importantly, our clients love them,” McClintock said. “In the early days it June 3: PechaKucha Slam - Informal evening of crowd-sourced pre- was difficult to get used coaches financed, but ABC, from Goldfield's sentations. beginning, was there. They really became more of a partner to us than a bus June 4: Big Night Out - Dinner and entertainment. sales or financing company.” For more information, visit www.ctaa.org. Call 800-222-2875 or visit www.abc-companies.com for more information. Page 52 BUSLINE May/June 2015 0515Busline.FINAL_Layout 1 5/1/15 8:11 AM Page 53

Busline Magazine’s Suppliers 2015

A Directory of Manufacturers and Suppliers to the Motorcoach, Transit, Specialty Vehicle & Para-Transit Industries Company Profile Free Listing Monday, June 1, 2015 Deadline: Mail to: Busline Magazine, 204 E. Main, P.O. Box 130, Arcola, IL 61910 - USA Phone 800-598-8083 (US) • 217-268-4959 • FAX 217-268-4815

The following form will be used to compile a company profile to be included in Suppliers 2015,published in the July-August 2015 issue of Busline Magazine. Suppliers 2015 is an international suppliers directory that will be read all year long by motorcoach, transit, specialty vehicle and para-transit companies.

Please fill out and return as soon as possible and no later than Monday, June 1, 2015. You may also email the information requested below to: please use subject line, “Busline Suppliers.” Thank you for your help [email protected]; in making this suppliers directory the most helpful and most comprehensive yet.

SUBMITTED BY:______

COMPANY NAME: ______

ADDRESS: ______

CITY:______STATE: ______ZIP: ______COUNTRY: ______

TELEPHONE: ______E-MAIL: ______

WEBSITE: ______

COMPANY OFFICERS: ______

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PRODUCTS (150 WORDS MAXIMUM) Please list products and services only. ______

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ADVERTORIAL From Bitzer: New F-gas Regulation Is An Ambitious Goal

The new F-gas Regulation no. 517/2014 has been in place across Europe since of the future, as it is virtually climate-neutral with GWP of 1. In terms of its ener- the beginning of 2015. But what exactly does this mean for refrigeration, air con- gy efficiency, however, CO2 is at a disadvantage compared to other refrigerants ditioning and heat pump technology? Two experts from BITZER, the world’s in cases of high ambient temperatures. This is due to the specific thermodynam- largest independent manufacturer of refrigeration compressors and a driver of ic properties. Refrigerants are therefore not suitable for all operating conditions. innovation for more than 80 years, answer the most important questions: Dr. Heinz For example, in high-performance systems such as industrial refrigeration sys- Jurgensen (Director of Application Engineering and Product Performance) and tems, ammonia is a good option, being tried and tested and technically sophisti- Hermann Renz (Technical Programs Manager). cated. In the case of smaller cooling capacities and lower charge levels, propane The issue of F-gases is very topical at the moment due to the new EU reg- is an interesting alternative that can be used safely and efficiently with relatively ulation. But what are F-gases? little effort. Hermann Renz: F-gases are synthetically manufactured fluorinated hydro- Does this mean that you have to design your compressors solely for a par- carbons. The chemical industry has developed a wide range of F-gases as refrig- ticular refrigerant? erants for compression refrigeration systems, focusing on high thermodynamic Hermann Renz: In addition to necessitating a specific compressor design, the efficiency and simple application. The F-gases generally used are neither toxic use of natural refrigerants also requires the system’s technology to be adapted, nor combustible, which reduces safety requirements and makes them much eas- which is shaped by factors such as safety requirements. Ammonia (NH3) is ier to handle. known to be toxic, hydrocarbons are flammable and CO2 has particularly high Dr. Heinz Jurgensen: A further benefit of using F-gases is that they have high pressure levels. In the case of CO2 and NH3 applications, for example, it is not thermal and chemical stability. Refrigeration systems are consequently more just about designing the compressors for particular operating conditions. Instead, durable and easier to maintain. This is impor- the entire system concept differs greatly from tant as refrigerants are used under very differ- typical F-gas systems. Accordingly, the ent conditions. Furthermore, F-gases are used increased application of natural refrigerants in other applications, for example as propel- also requires staff to be qualified and receive lants for spray cans, as insulation gas in high further training. voltage switchgear, as foam propellants or as What does this mean for BITZER? extinguishing agents. Hermann Renz: The need for well-trained And what exactly is changing as a result staff, contractors and planners will definitely of the new F-gas Regulation? increase. This is why BITZER is taking spe- Hermann Renz: The regulation greatly cific action to resolve the emerging problem reduces the amount of refrigerants available of the shortage of skilled workers. In recent with high global warming potential (GWP), years, we have launched three training centers and in some cases even prohibits them. The for CO2 systems. We are giving customers charged amount no longer forms the sole theoretical and practical training in CO2 high- basis of calculations, but now also the CO2 pressure systems in Sao Paolo, Rottenburg equivalent – as a product of the charged and Sydney. And this is proving very popular: amount and GWP in question. Refrigerants Image: BITZER US, Inc. in Rottenburg alone, we have already com- with low GWP can therefore be used in high- pleted over 100 training courses. er volumes than those with high GWP. However, many F-gases have high GWP. Dr. Heinz Jurgensen: BITZER has a major advantage in terms of experience This is related to their chemical stability, meaning that they remain in the atmos- over other manufacturers in the industry. Ultimately, it is our customers who ben- phere for a long time. efit from this. With our knowledge and globally respected technical support, we What is the plan in terms of EU regulation? help to make systems more efficient. One thing is clear: system efficiency must Dr. Heinz Jurgensen: The EU has set a very ambitious time frame. By 2018, not be allowed to suffer. the industry has to reduce the total volume of F-gas used by 37 percent. By 2030, Apart from CO2 and NH3 compressors, does BITZER already have prod- the volume used should be only 21 percent of that used in 2015. This time frame ucts which can be used with other alternative refrigerants? is known as the ‘phase-down’. In addition, the commonly used refrigerant R404A Hermann Renz: We are continuously developing our compressors and getting will be prohibited in many stationary systems from 2020. With high GWP of them ready for the use of new refrigerants. For example, the entire range of semi- 3,922, R404A is well above the permissible maximum value of 2,500. The regula- hermetic reciprocating compressors is also available in propylene (R1270) and tion will keep us busy until it is fully implemented in 2030. Tightness checks will propane (R290) versions. Similarly, several series of compact screw compressors be intensified and we are also facing stricter certification of employees, documen- for R290 are already available. We also offer several series of reciprocating and tation and administration. screw compressors suitable for the new hydrofluoroolefins (HFO) and HFO/HFC Why is the EU introducing tighter regulations with regard to F-gases? mixes. Incidentally, pure HFO refrigerants are not affected by the F-gas Hermann Renz: The first F-gas Regulation in effect since 2007 aimed to Regulation due to their low GWP. reduce the emissions caused by refrigerants by providing for improved contain- Dr. Heinz Jurgensen: We are well prepared due to our contacts with policy- ment and optimized recovery. However, the potential reductions brought about by makers and refrigerant manufacturers. Accordingly, we have designed many of our this measure are not sufficient to achieve the ambitious climate objectives in the compressors for alternative refrigerants. Our ECOLINE reciprocating compressors EU. The use of refrigerants with lower GWP can make a significant contribution have a special design for use with the hydrocarbons propane and propylene, while

to reducing emissions. Furthermore, F-gases are often used inappropriately the standard design is compatible with the new successors to F-gases coming to the

because they are non-hazardous. Accordingly, the EU decided to prescribe more market, as well as with HFO refrigerants and with HFO/HFC mixes.

stringent requirements for periodic tightness checks in the new F-gas Regulation. The new F-gas Regulation is only applicable in Europe. Do you see a disad-

So what are the refrigerants of the future? vantage here compared to producers based outside of the EU?

Dr. Heinz Jurgensen: We are firmly expecting hydrofluoroolefins (HFO), Hermann Renz: At first glance, it may seem that way. However, when you take

HFO/HFC mixes and natural refrigerants to take on greater importance and be used a closer look, it is actually an advantage. Environmental protection has always

more frequently, as these all have low GWP. For example, CO2 (R744) is very been a top priority at BITZER. This gives us an advantage in terms of experience

important. BITZER has been providing CO2 compressors for more than 15 years in the application of CO2 and HFO refrigerants, for example. In addition, we firm-

both for trans-critical and sub-critical applications which are now very well estab- ly expect that there will be similar global regulations in the near future, although

lished on the market. The product range for CO2 has also been significantly they may have different goals and schedules. There is a clear trend towards lower expanded. This represents a good alternative in supermarket refrigeration, in partic- refrigerant emissions with improved energy efficiency. Here we can build on our

ular. And we have also products for ammonia and propane applications, of course. knowledge-based edge and achieve success around the world with our innovative Why isn’t CO2 simply used all the time? developments. Dr. Heinz Jurgensen: No refrigerant has 100 percent optimal qualities, even BITZER US, Inc. is a subsidiary of the BITZER Group of 36 companies. natural refrigerants. CO2 is without doubt one of the most important refrigerants Visit www.bitzerus.com for more information.

Page 54 BUSLINE May/June 2015 0515Busline.FINAL_Layout 1 5/1/15 8:11 AM Page 55

BOWMANSDALE 2112 Bumble Bee Hollow Rd. Off Rt. 15 • Mechanicsburg, PA HARRISBURG LEMOYNE NEWPORT 717-697-5383 2929 Paxton St. • 717-561-8050 Rts. 11 and 15 North across from Rt. 322 and Rt. 34, Newport Exit CAMP HILL 4605 Jonestown Rd. Radisson Hotel • 717-761-7992 717-567-9344 4230 Trindle Road • 717-737-3896 717-652-7035 LEBANON PALMYRA CARLISLE 7845 Linglestown Rd. 1202 W. Maple St. • 717-273-8691 901 E. Main St. • 717-838-6815 60 Noble Blvd. in Super Walmart 717-545-8580 757 E. Cumberland St. • 717-273-9023 PINE GROVE 717-960-9400 Rt. 83 and Union Deposit Rd. 1725 Quentin Rd., Lebanon, PA l-81 , Exit 31 • 717-345-6400 608 E. High St. • 717-249-7721 717-564-9320 717-306-6565 RED LION 1176 Harrisburg Pike • 717-243-7774 4403 N. Front St. • 717-238-1048 LEWISTOWN 897 West Broadway • 717-246-1802 905 Walnut Bottom Rd. • 717-249-0694 Harrisburg East Mall/Rt. 83 & Paxton St. US 522 & US 22 • 717-248-5255 655 Lombard St., Cape Horn Plaza CEDAR CLIFF 717-561-0703 121 Electric Avenue • 717-248-4447 717-246-7801 Exit 19 off I-83 • Camp Hill, PA Eisenhower Blvd. I-283, Exit 1 LITITZ SCOTLAND 717-737-6404 717 -939-6972 990 Lititz Pike, Rt. 501 N. 3347 Black Gap Rd. • 717-263-7507 CHAMBERSBURG 5590 Allentown Blvd., Rt. 22 717-627-4666 SHIPPENSBURG 1075 Lincoln Way East • 717-263-4601 Exit 26 off I-81 • 717-652-9123 LITTLESTOWN 333 East King St. • 717-532-7945 NORTH CHAMBERSBURG Kline Plaza, 101 S. 25th St. 430 North Queen St. • 717-359-8946 SHREWSBURY 2891 Philadelphia Avenue (US 11 N.) 717-232-0008 LYKENS VALLEY Exit 1 off I-83 • 717-235-4663 717-263-2970 Uptown Shopping Center 4660 Rt. 209 • 717-362-8416 SILVER SPRING CLEONA 720 Division St. • 717-236-6226 MANHEIM Rt. 114 and Shadow Oak Dr. 493 W. Penn Avenue • 717-272-5677 Harrisburg Airport • 717-948-3900 711 Lancaster Rd., Rt. 72 Mechanicsburg, PA • 717-697-3460 COLUMBIA 6535 Grayson Rd. in Wal-Mart 717-664-4944 SPRINGETTSBURY 1788 Columbia Ave., off Rt. 30 717 -561-0445 MECHANICSBURG Hallam Exit off Rt. 30, Rt. 462 717-684-7048 HERSHEY Wesley Dr. Exit, Rt. 15 717-757-9655 DILLSBURG Rts. 39 and 322 • 611 E. Main St., 717-761-7525 WAYNESBORO 898 North US Rt. 15 • 717-432-9500 Hummelstown • 717-566-6041 KMart Plaza, 5600 Carlisle Pike 302 East Main St. • 717-762-9201 EAST MANCHESTER JONESTOWN 717-766-9675 YOCUMTOWN 4245 North George St. • 717-266-3170 Rt 72 & I-81 • 610-562-8462 6250 Carlisle Pike in Wal-Mart Exit 14A off I-83 • 717-938-5705 ELIZABETHTOWN LANCASTER 717-591-9864 YORK 1284 S. Market St. • 717-367-6471 1880 Hempstead Rd. • 717-509-6988 MERCERSBURG 2125 York Crossing Dr & Rt 74 ENOLA Willow Valley Square • 717-464-5119 11924 Buchanan Trial West 717-767-1381 Enola Rd., Exit Rt. 11 1829 Oregon Pike • 717-569-7898 717-328-0111 Exit 4, I-83, 133 Leader Heights Road 15 S. off Rt. 81 • 717-732-4228 1434 Manheim Pike • 717-394-3417 MIDDLETOWN 717-747-9191 EPHRATA Rt. 30 and Centerville Rd. 2270 W. Harrisburg Pike • 717-944-9535 York Galleria Mall • 717-757-3026 140 N. Reading Rd.• 717-733-1660 Lancaster, PA • 717-393-9523 MIFFLINTOWN 60 Arsenal Rd. • 717-699-4600 GETTYSBURG 68 East Town Mall, Rt. 30E Rt. 322 and Rt. 35, Mifflintown Exit Exit 6W off I-83 • 717-845-9360 517 S. Steinwehr Ave., Bus. Rt. 15 Lancaster, PA • 717-394-8957 717-436-9779 3141 Carlisle Road, Dover 717-334-5920 1755 Columbia Ave. MYERSTOWN 717-767-2594 1090 York Rd.• 717-337-1030 Millersville Exit off Rt. 30, Rt. 462 295 West Lincoln Avenue (Rt. 422) 144-158 S. George St. • 717-846-1021 GREENCASTLE 717-397-5112 717-866-2278 Rts. 30 & 74 in Wal-Mart Rt. 16 and I-81 • 717-597-2589 575 N. Franklin St., next to McCuskey NEW CUMBERLAND 717-764-8923 HALIFAX High School • 717-394-7938 101 Limekiln Rd. • 717-774-1027 380 Memory Lane • 717-757-2912 3761 Peter's Moutain Rd.• 717-896-2535 2034 Lincoln Hwy East in Wal-Mart NEW HOLLAND Tell us you saw this ad in Busline Magazine, HANOVER 717-390-1099 828 W. Main St. • 717-354-9300 and 1 driver and 1 tour guide will receive a 991 Carlisle St., Rt. 94 • 717-632-7531 King & Water Streets • 717-299-6699 NEW OXFORD FREE MEAL! 350 Eisenhower Dr.• 717-632-0005 Manor Shopping Center 6040 York Rd., Rts. 30 and 94 Please call ahead to the phone number listed by 1448 Baltimore St. • 717-630-0337 1296 Millersville Pk. • 717-293-5706 717-624-4266 the McDonald’s of your choice. 0515Busline.FINAL_Layout 1 5/1/15 8:11 AM Page 56

BEST VIEW FROM EVERY ANGLE.

Prevost coaches deliver the luxury experience that today’s charter travelers are looking for. With their fuel-efﬁcient powertrain and low-maintenance design, they’re as comfortable on your balance sheet as they are for your passengers.