July 1, 2004

THE NEWS RESOURCE FOR THE BUS AND MOTORCOACH INDUSTRY Motor Coach Industries Tortured Takeover refinances, reduces debt SCHAUMBURG, Ill. – Motor MCI’s overall debt. Problems plague transfer of N.Y. Service Coach Industries International Inc. JLL Partners of NEW YORK CITY – The employees of the seven private has refinanced its senior secured swapped more than $100 million planned July 1 takeover by the companies, worker compensa- debt, and simultaneously reduced of MCI debt it acquired on the New York Metropolitan Trans- tion, and what will become of its total debt in a equity swap. open market for additional equity. portation Authority of more the bus terminals and other Acting to beat an expected Because neither MCI nor JLL than 80 bus routes now operated facilities now owned by the pri- run-up in interest rates during the are public companies they are by private companies is moving vate operators. next year, MCI refinanced senior under no obligation to disclose forward – in fits and starts. “All I can tell you is that we company debt that was due in June specific details of MCI’s debt or Those familiar with the oft- are in the midst of extremely of next year, obtaining new credit JLL’s equity stake. When JLL times contentious negotiations complicated negotiations with terms that extend the debt bought MCI five years ago, the between the city and the pri- the private bus lines,” said city through Dec. 1, 2008. company had roughly $450 million vate companies say a variety of spokesman Jordan Baowitz. Most economists believe the in long-term debt. issues have slowed progress, MTA spokesman Tom Fed almost certainly will take Ramsey Frank, senior manag- creating a charged atmosphere Kelly said the authority has actions in the coming months that ing director at JLL Partners said, that has fostered talk of a walk- been preparing for the takeover will result in interest rates rising 75 “We continue to be pleased with out by drivers and other diffi- Green Bus Lines is one of the seven companies for some time and is ready to to 100 basis points by early next our investment in MCI. The man- culties. being displaced by New York MTA. go. “If all of the contracts are year. agement has done an excellent job “We just don’t know what’s commuters into Manhattan from signed and the legislation is As part of MCI’s refinancing, to streamline the company’s cost going on and probably won’t until the Bronx, Queens and Brooklyn. completed, then we will take over the Wall Street investment com- structure and to expand market the very end,” said Martin Burke, The talks have involved a wide fully on July 1 as planned,” he said. pany that owns control of the na- share during the industry down- vice president of Queens Surface range of controversial issues, includ- The city has been pushing for tion’s largest motorcoach manufac- turn. Corp., one of the seven companies ing the hiring of union drivers by the takeover for about two years, turer also decided it would reduce CONTINUED ON PAGE 13 þ that about 400,000 daily the MTA, the fate of non-union CONTINUED ON PAGE 14 þ Abundance of challenges No mandatory safety briefings WASHINGTON – The Federal The idea of FMCSA held informal meetings threaten Henlys Group Motor Carrier Safety Administra- developing fed- with the United Motorcoach Asso- BOREHAMWOOD, England – its huge debt and continuing losses – tion has decided against developing eral regulations ciation, the American Bus Associa- Henlys Group PLC, the British is problematic. regulations that would require that would re- tion and the Commercial Vehicle company that lays claim to being Henlys, which is headquartered motorcoach operators to conduct quire motor- Safety Alliance to discuss the the largest manufacturer of buses in the London suburb of Boreham- passenger safety briefings. coach passenger NTSB recommendations. and coaches in the U.S. and Can- wood, Hertfordshire, owns 100 per- In a letter and memo to the Na- safety briefings – Those meetings resulted in the tional Transportation Safety Board, similar to those formation of a working group to ada, has been beaten to a pulp by cent of Blue Bird Corp., the largest FMCSA Administrator Annette on airlines – has Annette Sandberg consider the issue. Included in the the prolonged slump of the North school bus maker in the U.S., and Sandberg said that “creation of a been under active consideration by working group were representatives American bus market and problems half of Prevost Car and its subsidiary, regulatory requirement for motor- the FMCSA for more than a year. from Greyhound Lines, Coach at its school bus manufacturing sub- Nova Bus. Volvo Bus Corp. owns coach operating companies to con- The impetus for mandated briefin- USA, Setra, Prevost Car, Motor sidiary. the other half of Prevost and Nova duct pretrip safety briefings for pas- gs came from two recommenda- Coach Industries, Daecher Con- In a series of rapid-fire develop- Bus. sengers is not the optimum tions made by the NTSB. sulting Group, UMA and three ments in mid-June, Henlys revealed “The board’s aim is to achieve a approach due to the composition of The federal crash investigation federal agencies. that its shares are largely worthless restructuring which preserves the the industry. agency had urged the FMCSA to The working group concluded and it’s having them delisted on the group’s principal operating business- “That is, the majority of the require motorcoach operators to that the best approach for dealing London Stock Exchange. Addition- es in North America and offers sig- motorcoach operating industry is provide passenger safety briefings with the issue was to develop alter- ally, it has named two turnaround nificant prospects for an enhance- composed of small companies with and said the FMCSA ought to pro- native approaches to the imposi- specialists to its top executive posi- ment of operating performance, fewer than 10 buses each,” said Sand- vide guidance to motorcoach oper- tion of federal regulations. The tions and it’s working with its banks leading in turn to improvements in berg. “Moreover, there is wide opera- ators on the minimum information final recommendation was for the and other creditors to try to salvage value in the longer term,” Henlys tional variance in the industry, mak- that should be included in such FMCSA to aggressively promote the company. said in a statement. ing it inappropriate to apply one basic briefings. motorcoach safety best practices Whether it will succeed – given þ regulatory approach universally.” In the spring of last year, the CONTINUED ON PAGE 12 CONTINUED ON PAGE 14 þ 1997 T945 VIN 28580 Seats 11, Jacuzzi Tub w/shower, Full Size Refrigerator, 2 Burner Cook Top 1999 T945 VIN 29759 Shower, 2 Refrigerators, Restroom, Alum. Wheels, B500R Trans.

1996 T845 VIN 28537 B500 Trans., Corian Counter Tops, 1998 T945 Dual Refrigerator VIN 29707 12 Bunks, Michelin Tires, In-Motion Satellite Converted by Caldwell 1999 T945 Coach, B500 Trans. VIN 29742 Seats 26, Corian Counter Tops, In-Motion Satellite, Deluxe A/V, Trash Compactor 2000 T945 VIN 29741 12 Bunks, w-Shower, 1999 T945 Tow Hook, Goodyear Tires, VIN 29710 B500R Trans. 12 Bunks, 2 TV’s with Video Cassette, Refrigerator, Microwave, 2 Stereos

1996 T845 2000 T945 VIN 28492 VIN 29731 Seats 22, Corian Counter Tops, 12 Bunks, w-shower, In-Motion Satellite, Full Size Microwave, Corian Refrigerator Counter Tops, B500 Trans. BUS & MOTORCOACH NEWS — July 1, 2004 — 3 OPERATOR NEWS Transit agency in Ohio violated federal rules ZANESVILLE, Ohio – An the Ohio Department of Transpor- Four of the complaints lodged inquiries received by the transit various other services in violation investigation of South East Area tation which conducted an inquiry by Advanced Coach were deter- agency to specific firms on a dispro- of federal charter service rules. Transit by the Ohio Department of into services provided by South East mined to be unfounded, including portionate basis. “In light of the existence of Transportation has found the pub- Area Transit. ODOT Administrator two allegations that SEAT violated ODOT did confirm, however, known willing and able private lic transit agency violated federal Marianne E. Freed said her agency federal rules by entering into con- SEAT was providing transportation charter operators, SEAT is advised transit rules, including providing was able to verify that some of tracts for charter service with the well beyond its service area. In fact, that it is not permitted to operate bus service outside its service area. Advanced Coach’s allegations were Muskingum County Department of on occasion it traveled all the way services which do not meet this The investigation was prompt- founded, while others were deter- Jobs and Family Services and a to Cleveland, a distance of roughly exception, or any of the other iden- ed by a half-dozen complaints filed mined to be unfounded. social service agency. 145 miles. Freed’s office issued a tified exceptions, unless an agree- with the Federal Transit Adminis- She said ODOT conducted its The other unfounded com- cease-and-desist order to stop ment has been reached to do so tration by Advanced Coach, a tour investigation by sorting through plaints had to do with whether SEAT from providing service that with the willing and able charter and charter operator based in the various documents submitted SEAT costs were fully allocated in is outside its service area. companies,” Freed said. Zanesville. by Advanced Coach and address- bidding for transit services, and Additionally, the investigation Advanced Coach is headed by The FTA sent the complaints to ing each of the allegations. allegations SEAT steered charter found that SEAT was providing John Butcher. At your service for every service

Greyhound creates post to study new technology DALLAS – The accelerating former CEO Robert Cordaro, Pal- Top five reasons to rely on MCI Fleet Support: pace of new federal emissions stan- ladino spent more than 30 years at Full-service capabilities dards for diesel engines has promot- Cummins, the diesel engine maker. ed Greyhound Lines to create a One of Palladino’s first chores Factory-trained certified technicians new position to help it evaluate the at Greyhound will be to evaluate Genuine MCI® Parts in stock latest engines and pollution-reduc- the performance of 20 new G4500 tion technology. models MCI recently delivered. Convenient hours—open early and late The new management position The wheelchair lift-equipped G Quick turnaround times is called vice president, technical coaches are the first produced on operations, and Greyhound has MCI’s new combined E/J/G-pro- We’re always looking to save you money! hired Peter A. Palladino, a former duction line at its retooled Winni- executive of both Cummins and peg, Manitoba, assembly plant. Ask about one of our Coach Maintenance Agreements. Motor Coach Industries, to fill it. All of the coaches are equipped In addition to dealing with the with ZF-AS Tronic transmissions. Look to MCI Fleet Support for: rapid changes in engine technology However, 10 of the buses have SERVICE • HVAC and emissions standards, Palladino Detroit Diesel Series 60 engines, SPECIALS THROUGH also will oversee Greyhound’s using cooled-EGR systems to • Alignment 9/30/04: maintenance and engineering oper- reduce engine emissions, while the • Washing and Detailing Oil Change ations, as well as the purchase and other 10 are powered by Caterpillar • Engine and Transmission (Oil/filters/labor) disposal of the company fleet in the C-13 engines with ACERT emis- • Over-the-Counter OEM $159.99 U.S. and Canada. Greyhound oper- sions-reduction technology. Parts Sales A/C Express Service ates upwards of 2,400 coaches. The side-by-side engine testing • Wheelchair Lift Repair & Retrofit* $499.99 Palladino joins Greyhound with will evaluate a whole range of life- 34 years of diverse transportation cycle and cost factors, including experience in motorcoaches, trucks longevity, dependability, maintain- and power trains. Most recently, he ability, serviceability, fuel economy MCI FLEET SUPPORT SERVICE CENTERS AUTHORIZED MCI SERVICE PROVIDERS Blackwood, NJ Dallas, TX Alban Engine W.W. Williams Foley Inc. was vice president of major accounts and performance. 800 262 1287 800 248-4942 Power Systems Atlanta, GA Piscataway, NJ at MCI, meaning Greyhound was The evaluation also will Des Plaines, IL Los Alamitos, CA* Baltimore, MD 888 826 9106 800 228 3406 one of his customers. include the ZF transmissions, 800 743-3624 800 777 4101 800 443 9813 During his four years at MCI, which Greyhound has been study- Loudonville, OH* Orlando, FL Cashman 877 754-4404 800 390-0287 Equipment Co. Palladino also had served as vice ing for nearly two years. The com- Las Vegas, NV president of sales and marketing, pany has had two ZF-equipped Montreal, P.Q. 800 937 2326 800 663-3328 and had responsibilities in fleet coaches on the road and reportedly support and product planning. has been favorably impressed by © Motor Coach Industries International, Inc. Prior to being hired at MCI by gains in fuel economy. 2004, All Rights Reserved www.mcicoach.com Nobody knows your coach better.

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EPA wants to retrofit 11 million diesel engines WASHINGTON – Officials at work with fleets to develop finan- largely on how clean EPA thinks and trucks to construction equip- them retrofit older trucks to the U.S. Environmental Protec- cial incentives to accomplish the older engines should be. For exam- ment would be targeted for the reduce emissions. tion Agency want to retrofit all 11 retrofitting. ple, sophisticated particulate mat- retrofit program. However, EPA EPA has offered limited retro- million diesel engines in the coun- “We’re in the middle of seeing ter filters, combined with ultra-low officials made it clear the agency fit incentive programs during the try, including those on buses and the most dramatic transformation sulfur diesel fuel, can reduce PM would not seek to make its retrofit past two years to the school bus motorcoaches, within 10 years to of diesel engines ever,” Oge said. emissions by 90 percent at a cost of program mandatory. industry and other “sensitive pop- reduce emissions of particulate “We have a huge job ahead of us to $4,000 to $8,000 per vehicle. Truckers – both local fleet ulations” where there is consider- matter. address the existing diesel fleets.” Diesel oxidation catalysts, on operations and over-the-road car- able pressure from parents, schools EPA officials announced the It is estimated that the cost of the other hand, operating without riers – apparently will be the first and the public to reduce tailpipe ambitious goal at a Diesel Tech- retrofitting 11 million diesel ultra-low sulfur diesel, can reduce target of the program. EPA offi- emissions. nology Forum here last month. engines could be in the billions of particulate matter by 20 percent at cials said they would begin work- So far, the program to school Margo Oge, director of the dollars; certainly hundreds of a cost of between $800 and $1,500 ing with small trucking fleets bus operators has been relatively EPA’s Office of Transportation and millions. per vehicle. next year to develop a grant- small with grants totaling less than Air Quality, said the agency would The price tag would depend All diesel engines from buses based incentive program to help $2 million being handed out. Truth in fines Deadline is near for is on its way coach security grants to Santa Fe WASHINGTON – The dead- When that page pops up, look in SANTA FE, N.M. – This line for motorcoach companies to the center of the page for the words popular tourist destination city apply for federal grants to improve “Bus Security Grants.” Clicking on appears to be one of the most security for their passengers, buses those words will take you to a page aggressive communities in the and operations is fast approaching. announcing the Intercity Bus Secu- nation at citing people for driving The deadline for applying for the rity Grants. Below the announce- while talking on a cell phone. U.S. Transportation Security Ad- ment are links to various forms, (Coach drivers you’re now ministration grants is July 7. The instructions, checklists, explanations warned!) TSA will award a total of $9.9 mil- and other documents to guide appli- Through the middle of June, lion to improve over-the-road bus cants. 516 people had been ticketed. security. There’s also a document that U.S. Secretary of Transportation Norman Y. Mineta participated in While Santa Fe’s ban on driv- Last August, TSA awarded explains who can apply, a list of fre- Roadcheck 2004 last month. He affixed an inspection sticker after a nearly $15 million in bus security quently asked questions, and a sam- ing while using a cellular phone truck was inspected at a weigh station near Hyattstown, Md. without a hands-free speaking grants to operators in 24 states. ple proposal. device is generally considered Money from the TSA’s Intercity Last year, 57 coach companies unpopular, it’s the hidden costs Bus Security Grant Program is to be were awarded grants ranging from attached to cell-phone citations EPA proposes extending used by operators to improve securi- $9,900 to $5 million. that have caused the most out- ty for their businesses and passen- Additionally, the United Motor- rage. gers, and to provide training for coach Association and the American That’s probably due to mis- compliance with spill rule employees. Bus Association received awards. leading signs on the outskirts of WASHINGTON – The U.S. implementation. To find information about the UMA and ABA used their money to the city that indicate violating Environmental Protection Agency Finally, last month, EPA pro- grants, go to www.tsa.gov and look develop security training programs the ordinance will cost motorists has announced plans to delay an posed a 12-month extension of key for a link called “Business Oppor- that they made available free to hun- $60 per offense. While the cost of August deadline for private compa- compliance dates for preparing and tunities.” Click on the link. When dreds of operators. The associations the fine is, in fact, $60, people nies, including bus and truck compa- implementing Spill Prevention, the Business Opportunities page pops are expected to submit a joint appli- cited soon find out that $41 in nies, to detail how they plan to con- Control and Countermeasure Plans up, look for a link on the left side cation this year, seeking additional court costs and processing fees tain oil spills on their property. required under the 2002 Oil called “Contracting with TSA.” funding to continue and expand bring the total tab for the citation The EPA said it wanted to ex- Pollution Prevention regulation. Click on that link. their industry-wide programs. to $101. tend the deadline for a year so as not Under the regulation, facilities After getting a string of com- to put facilities in an untenable posi- with an accumulative above-ground plaints, police and the city have tion of not having enough time to storage “capacity” of more than 1,320 Security technology report coming agreed the city should replace the comply with the deadline for having gallons of oil or petroleum-based signs to more accurately reflect a revised oil-spill containment plan. products must develop and imple- CHICAGO – A Federal Motor security, including wireless commu- the total cost of being cited. The EPA has been under pressure ment a plan to prevent potential Carrier Safety Administration offi- nications, global log-in by drivers or Six signs on roadways enter- from industry groups, plus members of spills from reaching navigable waters. cial says the agency plans to have a transportation workers via wireless ing the city will be replaced with Congress, to grant an extension. EPA has traditionally included study of transportation security tech- systems, and biometrics, including new signs that reflect the court The EPA’s spill-containment regu- diesel fuel tanks greater than nologies ready by Oct. 1. fingerprint use to identify people. lation was established 30 years ago and 55-gallons in determining the 1,320- The two-year study, funded Joseph DeLorenzo, an official fee and the fine. Well, almost. revised in 2002. However, many gallon threshold. jointly by FMCSA and the Federal with the FMCSA’s Midwest Service Actually, the signs will say it's groups asked for an extension in imple- EPA is proposing to extend the Highway Administration’s Intelli- Center, said the study would be com- a $100 violation. Violators will menting the 2002 changes because dates to prepare and implement plans gent Transportation Systems Joint pleted this fall while attending a con- find out about the other dollar they said the rule was too vague. Some from Aug. 17, 2004, and Feb. 18, Program Office, is examining how ference on security and technology when they pay. organizations went to court to stop the 2005, respectively, by one year. several types of technologies help here last month. BUS & MOTORCOACH NEWS — July 1, 2004 — 5 THE DOCKET Road debris from vehicles causes crashes, deaths WASHINGTON – A national released last month, a tractor-trailer The bees buzzed furiously as of the front of the cab and the bees 20 stings. traffic safety organization says vehi- overturned on a curve on a highway driver Lane Miller, his arm scraped were on me from that moment,” The state road was closed for 14 cle-related road debris causes more near Bozeman, Mont., spilling a load to the bone, struggled to flee his rig Miller told a wire service. “I've hours as crews and beekeepers than 25,000 crashes on North of hundreds of bee hives and after it overturned in Bear Trap never felt so much fear in my life.” cleaned up the 512 hives Miller was American roads each year. unleashing nine million angry Canyon west of Bozeman. Miller underwent surgery on his hauling from Idaho to North The AAA Foundation for honey bees. “I had to kick the windshield out arm and suffered bruises and about Dakota. Traffic Safety also said that vehicle parts, cargo and other material unin- tentionally discharged from trucks, cars and other vehicles result in between 80 and 90 highway deaths annually. “Although vehicle-related road debris crashes are generally less severe than other crashes, individual incidents can be catastrophic,” said Peter Kissinger, president of the foundation. “Moreover, many of the estimated 25,000 vehicle-related road debris crashes can be prevented if truckers and motorists secure their loads properly and report debris they encounter on the road.” The report said the three most common types of road debris are tire treads, garbage from waste haulers and lumber and construction mate- rials. The foundation recommended enacting stricter laws on load securement and educating motorists on load securement as ways to reduce the number of accidents. On the same day the report was Oklahoma DOT warns of I-40 construction OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma Department of Trans- portation is asking drivers to be super cautious in a construction zone between mile markers 135 and 124 on westbound Interstate 40. Two significant accidents have occurred in the vicinity of the road work that is occurring between Oklahoma City and El Reno. Traffic is being slowed or stopped by the construction. Oklahoma DOT says it has taken extra measures to catch the attention of all drivers in the con- struction zone, but it still needs help. Slow down, pay attention and watch for warning signs, says a ODOT official. Drivers are being asked to be especially careful when traveling in the area on weekends because of heavy traffic. ODOT also is urging travelers to consider taking State Highway- 66 or SH-152 as alternate routes when possible, and it is asking commercial operators to make their drivers aware of the hazard. 6 – July 1, 2004 — BUS & MOTORCOACH NEWS INDUSTRY NEWS Buses and Bookstore : A heavenly marriage? HARRISBURG, Pa. – It’s not Senate, uses his spare time to like Barnes & Noble and Borders; often the motorcoach industry sees organize busloads of bookworms to the big discounters like Wal-Mart, the likes of Larry Portzline. to independent bookstores. and from the Internet and the likes That’s because Portzline is the The trips usually include a dinner, of Amazon.com, E-Bay and a host leader of a one-man crusade that is allowing the lovers to discuss of others. trying to convince motorcoach their day of adventure before head- Portzline, who has developed a tour and charter operators that they ing back home. Web site, BookstoreTourism.com, to should embrace a travel concept he The goal of Portzline’s single- help him push his avocation, got a has developed called Bookstore minded zeal is not to drum up busi- major surprise (and boost) in May Tourism. ness for motorcoach operators – when USA Today selected his Web To Portzline’s way of thinking, though it does that – but to do address as a “hot site.” Bookstore Tourism and the motor- what he can to help save independ- He also is building partnerships coach industry is a marriage made with various organizations that are in bus heaven. interested in adapting Bookstore In the past year, Portzline has A Bookstore Tourism group poses on the Hudson River waterfront Tourism to fit their specific needs, led what he says were six sold-out outside Spirito Grill in the Sheraton Suites complex in Weehawken, N.J., including , coach compa- motorcoach charter trips to inde- with a view of midtown Manhattan at dusk in the background, including the Empire State Building. nies, two book festivals on the East pendent book stores in distant Coast, a large university, and “the cities. “We had three very success- fantastic booksellers in a small ful bookstore adventures this spring southern city who’d like to draw – two to Greenwich Village and busloads of literary patrons into our first ever to Washington, D.C.,” their community.” he reported the other day. Portzline gets notes of encour- “The indie bookstores in the agement from across the U.S. – Georgetown and Dupont Circle even a few from other parts of the neighborhoods (of Washington) world. “Booksellers, educators, are incredible, and I highly recom- Driver Paul Frederick of Perkiomen Tours visits with trip participants on librarians, travel professionals and mend them to anyone who’s going Fifth Avenue in Lower Manhattan prior booklovers in general see a lot of to be paying a visit to the nation’s to our drive across the Hudson River to potential for Bookstore Tourism, capital anytime soon. The support dinner in Weehawken, N.J. and they’ve been very generous in I’ve received from the booksellers their enthusiasm, praise and well in these two locales has been won- ent stores, which may be dis- wishes,” he says. derful.” appearing faster than independent The prolific Portzline has even Portzline, who teaches litera- coach operators. written a book, which he calls a ture part time at Harrisburg Area Independent booksellers face manifesto, on why booklovers Community College and writes full enormous competition from three Bookstore Tourism founder Larry Portzline offers a presentation on the should support independent book- time for the Pennsylvania State sources: the giant book retailers, industry during the drive to Washington, D.C. stores; what Bookstore Tourism is all about; who should participate; how to go about organizing a trip; how to research a city and its book- stores; how to plan other activities for the trip such as a presentation, meals, entertainment, author read- ings, tours and the like; how to cre- ate materials for the trip; how to publicize the trip; how to work with travel agents, bus companies, book- sellers and , and what can go wrong. The book can be downloaded from Portzline’s Web site. He hopes to self-publish it in the fall in a . He calls the book: Bookstore Tourism: The Book Addict’s Guide to Planning & Promoting Bookstore Road Trips (for Bibliophiles & Other Bookshop Junkies). “I really hope motorcoach oper- ators will consider embracing Bookstore Tourism,” says Portzline. “There is so much potential here. If you could see the folks who go on these trips with us, you’d know exactly what I am talking about. This is an untapped travel niche, and you really ought to take advan- tage of it.” MCI is with you all the way.

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MCI Fleet Support Parts • Service • Technical Support • Warranty • Product Assurance • Technician Training • Roadside Assistance MCI Sales & Service Locations West Southwest Midwest Southeast East Canada MOTOR COACH Los Alamitos, CA Dallas, TX Des Plaines, IL Orlando, FL Blackwood, NJ Montreal, PQ INDUSTRIES 800 777-4101 800 248-4942 800 743-3624 800 390-0287 800 262-1287 800 663-3328 or visit www.mcicoach.com for a complete listing of authorized MCI Service Centers. We are America’s coach. © Motor Coach Industries, Inc. 2004, All Rights Reserved 8 – July 1, 2004 — BUS & MOTORCOACH NEWS OPINION An open border Mineta handicaps highway bill It’s probably safe to say that few meeting U.S. vehicle and driver HYATTSTOWN, Md. – term extensions. The latest exten- committee that is trying to assem- motorcoach operators did cart- safety regulations will be the same Transportation Secretary Norman sion expires June 30. ble a final highway bill more wheels to celebrate the U.S. Su- for those operators as it is for Mineta doubts Congress can finish Congress is facing a series of breathing room. preme Court decision last month, American companies, the cost of work on a revamped highway and deadlines and interruptions in However, Mineta believes the allowing the Bush Administration labor, real estate, repairs and other public transportation bill during its the next several months that like- current law will probably end up to push ahead and open U.S. high- variables will unquestionably re- current session, suggesting he ly will hamper progress in getting being extended for a year. At the ways to Mexican buses and trucks main cheaper for Mexican opera- thinks it will probably end up the new legislation adopted. First same time, he also thinks an as soon as it wishes. tors. delaying action until next year. is the July 4 recess. After that extension would be bad for trans- The fact is the U.S. motor- Most likely, Mexican operators The current six-year roads and comes a five-week hiatus for the portation and the economy. coach industry has never really will be at their best in capturing public transit law expired Sept. 30 Republican and Democratic “States and localities can’t warmed to the North American customers in price-sensitive mar- and, despite a two-year head start, national conventions, then Labor make plans when you have just Free Trade Agreement that serves kets, in regular route service, and in Congress has been unable to get a Day, and finally the fall political one year of funding,” Mineta said as the basis for opening bus and offering cheap-fare charters within new highway reauthorization bill campaigning. during an interview at Roadcheck truck traffic between the United a day’s drive of the border. passed. Congress could adopt a 30-day 2004. “What contractor is going to States and Mexico. But because of support issues Since the current law expired, or 90-day extension, with the lat- bid when there’s just one year’s When NAFTA was being and existing limitations on the use Congress has adopted three short- ter giving the joint House-Senate worth of funding?” debated back in the early 1990s, of foreign labor, as those carriers the industry was united in the view travel further north and farther that there was nothing in the pro- from their home base, the Mexican posed agreement that would price advantage will wither. A Tolls opposed on old interstates enhance the business or the rea- Mexican carrier, for instance, that listic business opportunities of wants to do business in Chicago WASHINGTON – A consor- mechanism with problematic and only on the cost of travel but in American coach operators. will pretty much be forced to pay tium of 65 highway-user organiza- unacceptable side effects,” the letter related areas as well. In fact, the industry told the same prices for labor, taxes, tions is urging Congress to reject the from the consortium said. “For example, throughout the Congress in 1993 that there were services and incidentals as an imposition of mandatory tolls on “For example, converting inter- country significant investments provisions and inequities in the American operator in Chicago. existing federal interstate highways. states to toll roads will force many have been made in roadside busi- agreement that could harm the Just as it has always been, the Tolling interstates has gained motorists onto local roads, which are nesses, such as truck stops, U.S. coach industry business envi- customer will make the ultimate considerable support among many at least four times as dangerous as and , markets, restaurants and ronment. As usual, Congress didn’t decision about which companies cash-strapped states, in the Bush Ad- interstates. Tolls will also increase gas stations, and many others. Tolls, listen and NAFTA was ratified win their business. Most American ministration, and among some mem- traffic congestion on these local and the traffic diversion that comes with complete open-door policies. consumers will continue to patron- bers of Congress. The concept could roads, disrupt communities and result with them, will negatively impact So, now that it looks like the ize only American operators. Some become part of the highway and in unanticipated maintenance costs the ability of these companies to NAFTA provisions governing may try the new guys. Sadly, price public transportation reauthoriza- on arteries that were not designed to financially survive. cross-border bus and truck traffic will continue to be the only com- tion bill that Congress is debating. handle the type and of traffic “Furthermore, these businesses will at last be implemented, will petitive beacon for many customers In a letter to members of the that the diversion will cause.” are often the largest non-farm the entry of Mexican motorcoach unless concerns about Mexican House-Senate Transportation Con- The consortium is composed pri- employers in rural communities, and companies hurt the precarious U.S. carrier safety are proven to be more ference Committee, the consortium marily of trucking organizations but their demise might also spell eco- bus industry or will this be just a than a politically convenient anti- opposing the idea said the spread of includes the American Automobile nomic disaster for local populations.” small blip on the competitive radar NAFTA rallying cry. tolls will erode the concept of an Club, the American Highway Users The consortium also pointed out screen? But that doesn’t mean Amer- unrestricted interstate system, which Alliance, the American Farm Bu- that 66 percent of the American Operators in Arizona, Califor- ican operators can’t compete. Safe- for decades has been the nation’s reau, the National Association of public opposes imposing new tolls on nia, New Mexico and Texas will ty, service and price, in that order, backbone for freight, recreational Manufacturers, and the Recreation existing interstates. almost certainly see increased com- should continue to guide your oper- and commuter transportation needs. Vehicle Industry Association. But while the group rejected petition from Mexican carriers who ating principles. And reinforcing “While we recognize the need The letter also asserted that traf- mandatory tolls on existing inter- can operate from their bases in the the axiom “you get what you pay for additional highway investment, fic shifting from interstate toll roads state highways, it endorsed the con- cheaper business environment for” should be a refrain your cus- we believe that tolling existing inter- to secondary highways will have cept of using tolls to help finance across the border. While the cost of tomers hear from you. state highways is an inappropriate severe economic consequences, “not new interstate construction.

How to contact us: ISSUE NO. 33 To submit or report news, To contact the United Motorcoach Jeff Polzien Red Carpet Tours Letters to the Editor, articles: Association: Oklahoma City E-mail: [email protected] Call: (800) 424-8262 A PUBLICATION OF THE UNITED MOTORCOACH ASSOCIATION Robert L. Quick Fax: (877) 510-5598 or go to: www.uma.org Staff Advisory Board Quick-Livick Inc. or (877) 510-5602 Stauton, Va. To e-mail advertisements Mail: 717 West Pierson #160 or photographs: Editor & Publisher Alex Allen Todd Holland Tom Ready Phoenix, AZ 85013 Victor Parra Amador Stage Lines Ramblin' Express Ready Bus Lines E-mail: [email protected] Sacramento, Calif. Colorado Springs LaCrescent, Minn. Call: (602) 242-7361 or upload at www.jezac.com/uploads Sales Director Senior Editor Bob Brisman Robert Hume Bill Rohrbaugh West Point Trailways Travel Mates Trailways Bill Rohrbaugh's Charter Services To advertise or to mail To subscribe or inquire Johnny Steger Bruce Sankey Vails Gate, N.Y. Harrisonburg, Va. Manchester, Md. advertising-related materials: about your subscription: Government Editor Art Director David Brown Daryl G. Johnson Brian Scott Call: Johnny Steger Call: (602) 242-7361 Tours J & J Charters Escot Bus Lines (602) 980-0840 Norman Littler Mary E. McCarty Randlemann, N.C. Crosby, Texas Largo, Fla. To send subscription orders E-mail: [email protected] or changes of address: Editorial Assistant Associate Editor Bob Foley Godfrey LeBron John Silvanie Mail: Post Office Box 12903 ABC Companies Paradise Trailways Suburban Charter Services E-mail: [email protected] Tara Sheehan Ellen Balm Faribault, Minn. West Hempstead, N.Y. White Plains, N.Y. Tempe, AZ 85284 Fax: (877) 510-5602 To complain: Accountant Editorial Assistant Steve Haddad Joan Libby Alan Spachman or (877) 510-5598 Carl R. Bieber Tourways Cavalier Coach National Interstate Insurance Co John Giddens Amy Stalknecht Call: (602) 242-7361 Mail: 717 West Pierson #160 Kutstown, Pa. Boston, Mass. Richfield, Ohio E-mail: [email protected] Phoenix, AZ 85013 Rick Hillard Warren Miller T. Ralph Young Tri-State Tours Pacific Coach Bus Service Young Transportation ©2004 by the United Motorcoach Association. Reproduction in whole or in part Galena, Ill. San Francisco, Calif. Ashville, N.C. without written permission is prohibited. Maybe next time.

I Increased fuel economy. With more coach fleets choosing ZF-AS Tronic, this scene is starting to become pretty familiar I 185,000 miles between oil with coach operators. Why? They just don’t need to stop for fuel as often anymore. A coach changes; no paper filters. equipped with a ZF-AS Tronic transmission can eliminate fuel stops – due to our gearbox design that results in better efficiency versus powershift transmissions. I Automatic and manual shifting modes. With ZF-AS Tronic on board, real in-service data reveals an average fuel gain of 10% – a result I Easy-to-use touch pad supported by independently conducted testing, according to SAE standards. All of which operation; no clutch pedal. translates to lower maintenance costs, greater operating efficiency, and keeping to on-time I High-torque capacity up to schedules. The ZF-AS Tronic is a smooth, quiet, lightweight, fuel-efficient, completely 1850 ft-lbs. integrated transmission with the value-added benefits that fleet operators and drivers demand.

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Driveline and Chassis Technology 10 – July 1, 2004 — BUS & MOTORCOACH NEWS NEW PRODUCTS Distinctive Systems introduces software Distinctive Systems Ltd. of Hamilton Square, N.J., a supplier of software to the motorcoach industry, has released a new Community Industry subsys- tem to augment its charter and contract booking sys- tem, Coach Manager CBS. Distinctive Systems says CBS is designed to handle any journey that repeats on either a regular or irregular basis. This functionality has been enhanced to allow a list of passengers to be associated with each journey. The system stores comprehensive details about each passenger so special needs are easily recorded and can highlight the need for a fixed wheelchair position, personal attendant or other accommodation. CBS also includes a new diary for community Stabilizers avoid transport journeys. A data grid lists all the journeys for a selected day and as each journey is selected a separate valve stem damage grid lists all the passengers traveling on it. The grid can be used for quickly adding or removing passengers and Cat offers C-13 engine A product to help prevent damage to value stem for the order or time of pick-ups and set-downs. Caterpillar has a new model energy, improving fuel economy and extensions caused by the extensions rubbing against To learn more, go to www.distinctive-systems.com, the wheels has been introduced by RealWheelsCover or call (866) PTC-INFO. engine for the over-the-road bus further reducing emissions. Co. of Gurnee, Ill. The Valve Stem Extension industry, the C13, which utilizes the Caterpillar says ACERT provides Stabilizer prevents extension wear that can lead to air company’s ACERT system. reliability and durability equal to or leakage and eventual tire damage. Sirius, XM have info ACERT, short for advanced com- better than previous engines, and fuel The stabilizer is said to be easy to install: Align the Sirius Satellite Radio Inc. has begun broadcasting bustion emission reduction technolo- economy that is equal to 2001 prod- rubber stabilizer’s center hole with the valve extension local traffic information for Los Angeles, New York gy, combines several systems – fuel, ucts “with proper specification” and tip and push the stabilizer into the wheel hole until the and 18 other top U.S. markets. stabilizer’s front face is completely seated. air, electronics and exhaust after- “3 to 5 percent better than current Rival XM Satellite Radio says it also has launched The RealWheels extension stabilizers are available treatment – to reduce emissions. competing technologies.” in 2-, 2.5- or 2.8-inch sizes for Accuride and Alcoa alu- 21 channels of traffic information for the nation's ACERT employs algorithms to iden- The C13 is available in 335- to minum wheels with round cut outs. largest markets. tify optimal settings for the lowest 430-horsepower ranges. They can be purchased from dealers or directly Sirius Chief Executive Joe Clayton said the service possible nitrogen oxide emissions. For more information, go to is broadcasting on 10 channels, with each channel from RealWheels. Call (800) 982-1180 or go to The system also recovers exhaust www.caterpillar.com. www.realwheels.com. serving two markets. BUS & MOTORCOACH NEWS — July 1, 2004 — 11 NEW PRODUCTS Stertil-Koni introduces New PennTex alternator for motorcoaches, buses parts washer, three lifts PennTex Industries of Man- Stertil-Koni, which specializes in missions. It has a capacity of 3,500 chester, Pa., has introduced the PX- supplying a wide variety of lifts pounds, a maximum height of 74 833 air-cooled alternator. The 24- intended for use in maintenance inches, a tilt table with up to 12 amp alternator is rated at 330 amps. shops, has introduced a handful of degrees front-to-back or side-to-side Designed as an upgrade and products that expand its line of movement. replacement for the industry standard heavy-duty four-post drive-on lifts, A new non-lift product from 50DN alternator, the PennTex PX- mobile lifts, automotive lifts and in- Stertil-Koni is a water-based parts 833 has specially designed bearings ground high-pressure hydraulic lifts. washer. The environmentally friend- with high-temperature seals and fuel economy and performance will The latest Stertil-Koni entry is a ly washer is designed for efficiency. grease. It utilizes all existing hard- improve because of decreased torque new-generation mobile lift with an Capable of handling oversized ware, electrical connections and pul- and horsepower drag. The alternator 18,000-pound per column capacity. parts, the washer has a 63-gallon ley for ease of installation. It is easily The lift features large adjustable forks tank, a 42-inch basket diameter, a has a warranty for 12 months, or serviced with standard components. to accommodate different vehicles 600-pound load limit, and a clam- 150,000 miles, which ever is first. PennTex says that converting to and grab more tire, retractable wheels shell design for easy loading. For more information, call (877) for improved stabilization, and The last new Stertil-Koni prod- the PX-833 is easy and eliminates oil 590-0505, or go to www.penntex reduced floor pressure requirements. uct is an advanced two-post lift with leaks. The company also says engine usa.com. Also new from Stertil-Koni is a a rated capacity of 16,000 pounds. high-performance, heavy-duty trans- For more information, go to mission jack designed for large trans- www.stertil-koni.com. RECARO adds driver seats RECARO North America of extension and seat cushion-tilt New tool for cleaning interiors Fast idle system Auburn Hills, Mich., has introduced adjustment offer tight support and two driver seats for commercial buses. relive muscle tension. Willingham Inc., the custom other fabrics. It provides instantly is now available The company says the ergo M and The ergo S model is designed for seat cover and bus interior refur- heated water to 212 degrees, elec- A fast-idle system for small and the ergo S models offer the ultimate the over-the-road coach and medi- bishing company, has introduced a tronic auto-vac shut off, four-gallon midsize buses built on the Ford in design and materials. um-duty bus segments, while the ergo cleaning machine that is usable on holding tank, high-tech accessories E350 and E450 chassis has been The seats have extra high back- M model was developed for transit all wet-cleanable fabrics, including and lift-out recovery bucket. introduced by InterMotive Prod- rests with ergonomically formed and over-the-road coach markets. upholstery, carpeting and ceilings. It has a one-year warranty and a ucts of Auburn, Calif. cushions for support of back and For more information call (248) The XLT-60 has a compact, complete line of chemicals. For information, call (530) shoulders, and a lumbar support for 340-5990, or go to www.recaro- lightweight body that allows on- For information, call (425) 823-2332 or go to www.intermo- spinal support. The seat-cushion nao.com. site or in-bus cleaning of seats and 417-0544. tive.net. 12 – July 1, 2004 – BUS & MOTORCOACH NEWS INDUSTRY NEWS ally nothing. the collapse of a joint-venture by last September 30, when its net such U.K. companies as FirstGroup, Henleys Henlys’ string of sobering state- British bus manufacturing company debt was $521.5 million. National Express and Stagecoach CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 ments included two announcements that was 30 percent owned by Meanwhile, Henlys had to write Group, which bought Coach USA. “Initial discussions with the reporting that its board had replaced Henlys, and a whole range of prob- off its $130 million investment in Henlys led the invasion in 1995, lending banks have been construc- top management with executives lems at Blue Bird sent Henlys into a TransBus, the United Kingdom’s jointly purchasing Prevost Car with tive and the board anticipates this experienced in corporate turn- financial freefall. leading bus builder, which was 30 Volvo Bus. will lead to a positive outcome,” the arounds, including David James, a percent owned by Henlys and 70 Not much happened until 1998- company added. 66-year-old executive who has spent Lots of red flags percent owned by The Mayflower 99 when a near feeding frenzy by most of the past 15 years shuffling The company’s annual reports Corporation PLC. British companies gobbled up large Announcements shock from one corporate basket case to for recent years recount and reveal a Mayflower went belly up at the chunks of the U.S. bus industry. Henlys’ revelation last month the next. deteriorating financial position. Or, end of March, and its administrators In 1998, Mayflower bought 40 that its shares have “little or no James was appointed chairman, in the words of one British financial put the company, its businesses, its percent of Metrotrans, the second- value” and would be delisted while Timothy Redburn was named journalist: “There were enough red assets and certain of its subsidiaries largest midsize bus maker in the shocked the British financial mar- executive director. In announcing flags to festoon a Communist Party on the block. TransBus owned three U.S., which took the British compa- kets and press. Although the compa- the hiring of Redburn, Henlys made conference.” major British bus brands – body ny’s money and promptly went out of ny’s problems were no secret, there a point to note he had “extensive Earnings and sales have been builders Alexander and Plaxton and business. apparently had been lingering hope corporate restructuring and turn- sliding since 2000; its ability to cover chassis manufacturer Dennis. More successful was a joint ven- on the part of some investors that around experience” gained at four interest costs have become razor thin; In mid-May, management of ture Mayflower arranged with things might turnaround. public companies. it incurred “exceptional” charges year Plaxton purchased that operation for Thomas Built Buses to produce a 30- Such thinking disappeared in a The past 33 months have largely after year, and a loss was retained in $27 million. About a week later, a foot low-floor bus – the SLF – based heart beat after the June news hit. been a disaster for Henlys. The each of the past three years. Scottish consortium purchased what on a Dennis Dart chassis and Alex- Henlys shares, valued at around $2 extended economic slump in the On the company balance sheet, was left of TransBus for $160 million. ander body. That arrangement ended (U.S.) at the beginning of February, U.S., including severe cutbacks in Henlys’ tangible assets were dwarfed The investment group that a year ago with Thomas Dennis LLC fell to about 2 cents after the compa- bus purchases by school districts and by intangible goodwill. Even with acquired TransBus is headed by becoming DaimlerChrysler Com- ny said any restructuring would municipalities; the aftermath of the intangibles, the company's net Noble Grossart and includes the mercial Buses North Carolina. dilute shareholders’ interest to virtu- 9/11; the SARS outbreak in Canada; assets had dropped to $267 million founder and largest shareholder of Among the many British-U.S. Stagecoach Group, Brian Souter. deals in 1999 was Henlys’ purchase In announcing the TransBus of Blue Bird Corp. for $665 million, Protrak QCT Laser Wheel Alignment System deal, the administrators of May- including assuming $237 million in For Trucks And Trailers flower said the purchase will secure debt. the future of the company, which Blue Bird, as it turned out, proved The protrak QCT is designed with maximum speed and produced upwards of 1,400 single- to be an Excedrin headache for versatility in mind. Able to easily align every vehicle in and double-decker buses a year at Henlys. Major production problems your fleet with proven accuracy, the protrak QCT will be plants in Scotland. during the past two years in the school Contributing to the Mayflower bus operation, a costly revamping of the most valuable tool in your shop! collapse was the discovery of “certain its product line, and a slowdown in • Improve Tire Wear and Handling accounting irregularities” in the the commercial and transit divisions • Increase Profits TransBus division, suggesting that defied quick resolution. Blue Bird lost accounting shenanigans aren’t con- about $64 million in the 12 months • Increase Alignment Accuracy fined to American corporations. ended Sept. 30, 2003. • 10 Minute Alignment Check On Any Truck The accounting high jinks were New management at Blue Bird, expected to increase debt at May- lead by President and CEO Jeffrey flower by $35 million. Bust, has largely stabilized the com- pany, but slow sales and reduced Lending an invasion margins continue to restrain results. Protrak QCT For quality complete Both Henlys and Mayflower Prevost, meanwhile, experienced alignment of Trucks, Trailers and Coaches of virtually all shapes and sizes. were key players in the so-called a slow down but remained profitable. British invasion of the North It earned more than $17 million on American bus industry in the late sales of nearly $270 million in fiscal 1-800-617-5592 • www.mdalign.com• [email protected] 1990s. The invasion also included 2003. DriveCam reports growth, surpasses 10,000 units SAN DIEGO – DriveCam ment in service and support is Video Systems says that strong focused on helping our customers demand for its fleet safety technol- quickly maximize the economic and ogy that improves driving behavior safety benefits of the DriveCam has produced a 120 percent program they have purchased.” increase in revenue for the first DriveCam’s Driving Feedback quarter of this year over the same System is used to reduce collisions period last year. and lowering operating expenses. It As a result of the growth, records driving incidents via a DriveCam says it is adding new video system from the vehicle. The staff in safety services, sales, engi- recordings can be used to counsel neering, product management, cus- drivers about their specific driving tomer service and administration habits. Additionally, recordings of while increasing its facilities. driving events can provide proof in “We are investing in the infra- the case of an accident, prevent structure of the company to support fraudulent claims, capture contrib- our existing customers, as well as utory negligence and create real- develop new and improved prod- life training scenarios. ucts and services they will require in As of May, more than 10,000 the future,” said Ed Andrew, presi- vehicles have been outfitted with dent of DriveCam. “Our invest- DriveCam. BUS & MOTORCOACH NEWS — July 1, 2004 — 13 INDUSTRY NEWS National Motorcoach Network, Trailways partner for event FAIRFAX STATION, Va. – The President Steve Kirchner. National Motorcoach Network has There will be similar support this gained a major new partner for its year from the Annapolis tourism Invitational 100 meeting later this community, through the Annapolis month. & Anne Arundel County Conven- The Charter and Tour Division tion & Visitors Bureau and the Mary- of Trailways Transportation System land Office of Tourism Development, has signed on to support the annual which are planning an outstanding event, which will be July 22-25 at the series of events open to all meeting Radisson Annapolis in registrants. Annapolis, Md. “This event is very successful and New at MCI’s Winnipeg assembly plant is a Coach Delivery Center. The partnership with Trailways productive. And Trailways is hon- unwavering support of MCI, espe- JLL (formerly Joseph Littlejohn opens up the meeting to the 100 ored to be a partner of this year’s MCI refinances cially through this refinancing and & Levy) acquired control of MCI motorcoach charter and tour compa- meeting,” said Trailways President CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 debt reduction. The actions taken in June 1999, as part of a restruc- nies that comprise the combined Gale Ellsworth. “We look forward to by the company during low periods turing of the company’s previous organizations. With the change, the a long-term relationship that will “Product quality and customer are already producing benefits as owner, Grupo Dina of Mexico. At sponsoring organizations anticipate benefit the members of both organi- satisfaction measures have im- we begin to see a revival in our the time, Dina was on the verge of they could double the number of zations.” proved in each of the last three business. financial collapse. motorcoach charter and tour compa- The Invitational is limited to a years.” Frank said. “As the market “This refinancing ensures that During the past five years, nies participating in the meeting. maximum of 100 supplier registrants, leader, we believe this refinancing our financial position remains MCI’s manufacturing operations The event is organized as a net- but there is no limit to the number of will position the company to take strong and eliminates speculation have been completely revamped, working opportunity for motorcoach motorcoach charter and tour opera- advantage of the upturn in the about our company’s financial posi- reducing costs, improving plant charter and tour operators, and travel tors who can participate. motorcoach purchasing cycle with tion. What sets MCI apart from efficiency and upgrading quality. industry and associate suppliers. For additional information, extended maturities and the addi- other manufacturers is the unwa- JLL expects to eventually sell The Invitational 100, which is including registration information, tional liquidity provided.” vering commitment and experi- MCI once its operational improve- now in its 21st year, traditionally has contact the National Motorcoach Thomas Sorrells, president and ence of our people. Our quality and ment program is complete, making been one of the best supported meet- Network at (888) 733-5287, or chief executive of MCI, added: the value we deliver speak for MCI a more attractive acquisition ings in the travel industry, according Trailways at (703) 691-3052, or e- “We continue to value JLL’s themselves.” target. to National Motorcoach Network mail [email protected]

HIGH EFFICIENCY ALTERNATORS AND MOBILE GetTheGetThe ELECTRONIC DEVICES PXPX--833833 Advantage!  330A / 24V, moreAdvantage! than 200 amps at idle.  High temperature bearing grease and seals. NNEEWW  Increased fuel economy due to air-cooled efficient design. PennTex introduces an efficient  air-cooled solution to an old problem... Utilizes all existing hardware, electrical oil leaks and premature failures. The components, and pulleys. PX-833 also eliminates the possibility of engine oil contamination. Contact  Oil-to-Air conversion program available. us today for immediate answers to your questions. PennTex Industries, Inc. Complete Equipment and Parts Catalog Available. Can be downloaded from our expanded Web Site: 202 Plaza Dr. penntexusa.com Manchester, PA 17345 PennTex products are proudly manufacturered in FORT WORTH, TEXAS, USA. Sales and Technical Toll Free: 877-590-7366 E-MAIL: [email protected] Sales Fax: 817-590-0505 14 — July 1, 2004 — BUS & MOTORCOACH NEWS INDUSTRY NEWS Best boosts rating of National Interstate Insurance OLDWICK, N.J. – The widely recognized insurance Best's ratings reflect its opin- “B+.” The company has another tation industry. nation’s largest and longest-estab- industry rating agency, said it has ion based on a comprehensive 10 ratings for “vulnerable” com- Today, the company also lished company devoted to issuing upgraded the financial strength quantitative and qualitative eval- panies, ranging from “B” to “S” serves the truck, recreation vehi- in-depth reports and financial- rating of National Interstate uation of a company's balance (suspended). cle and Hawaii commercial busi- strength ratings about insurance Insurance from A- (Excellent) to sheet strength, operating perform- National Interstate, which is ness insurance markets. organizations has boosted its rating A (Excellent). ance and business profile. based in the Cleveland suburb of “We’re pleased A.M. Best of National Interstate Insurance National Interstate is one of For “secure” companies, six Richfield, Ohio, was founded 15 affirmed its confidence in NIIC,” Co. the motorcoach industry’s leading ratings are possible: “A++,” years ago to serve the insurance said company Assistant Vice Pres- A.M. Best Company, the most insurance companies. “A+,” “A,” “A-,” “B++” and needs of the passenger transpor- ident Michelle Silverstro.

New York Takeover by the private carriers are in terrible shape, noting the city has ordered CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 450 new ones as part of an effort to maintaining that the MTA could update the entire fleet. Now Available provide better service than what The MTA, when it takes over, the private companies have been plans to immediately remove the THE offering, especially over the past worst buses from the routes and Big Fat few years. “We believe the MTA replace them with buses now in the can manage these authority fleet, accord- Bus Book lines more efficiently ing to Kelly. He said AND THE than they have been “You really other changes on the previously, so we routes, including the Big Fat expect better value for won’t see possible merging of the taxpayers and bet- some routes, would Bus Book on CD ter service for the rid- very much take place gradually. ers,” said Baowitz. “You really won’t see Order today! The private carri- difference very much difference ers have been operat- for about six months,” Only $79 ing the routes since for about he said. for The Big Fat Bus Book 1974 under a series of Once the takeover on CD* renewable contracts is completed, some of with the city and city six the seven companies Only $99 subsidies that most could go out of busi- for The Big Fat Bus Book recently totaled $150 months,” ness. (print version)* million a year. They Command Bus Here’s what the serviced the routes with 1,250 aged Co., Green Bus Lines, Jamaica Big Fat Bus Book delivers… Ordering is quick and easy Use with when you use your VISA, and rundown city-owned buses, Buses and Triboro Coach Corp., all • Profiles of more than 6,000 Adobe Reader MasterCard or American which had been a sore spot with the affiliates of Green Bus Lines Inc., as • Private bus companies Forget about what’s Express carriers who frequently complained well as Queens Surface, have no • Transit agencies and systems gone before: * In Canada and elsewhere outside that the city did not provide enough other operations other than the • Manufacturers and suppliers The Bus Pages. the U.S., price is $89 (U.S. funds) money to maintain the buses and transit routes. • Bus industry associations The Bus Industry Directory. for The Big Fat Bus Book on CD and $119 for the printed Big Fat would not replace them with newer New York Bus Service and Lib- • Consultants models. Those were just an appetizer. Bus Book. All prices include erty Lines have other business, in- • An A-Z telephone directory with the shipping and handling. Baowitz acknowledged that cluding school bus routes and line names, locations and telephone The Big Fat Bus Book For fastest service, fax the most of the city-owned buses used operations in other communities. numbers of thousands of people, is the whole enchilada. form below toll-free to: businesses, organizations and (877) 510-5598 or Safety Briefing ings that are tailored to their own associations that compose The Big Fat Bus Book on CD (877) 510-5602 overall safety and operational pro- • Gives you access to a wealth of informa- the North American bus industry CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 tion and data on your PC or laptop cedures. • Yellow Pages guide to bus industry The • Contains all the same information Big Fat through a joint government-indus- In addition, FMCSA would products and services that’s in the printed Big Fat Bus Book Bus Book try outreach program. strongly encourage Greyhound to • Sections organized to reflect the • Allows you to quickly locate just the is produced by Specifically, the FMCSA, in establish a company policy for its different segments of the bus industry information you need the Bus Publications Group partnership with the insurance drivers or other personnel to con- • Accurately alphabetized for easy use • Is as easy to use as the printed 717 W. Pierson, #160 industry, would implement a pro- duct motorcoach safety briefings at • U.S. and Canada – all states, Big Fat Bus Book Phoenix, AZ 85013 (602) 242-7361 gram to develop informational major stops. provinces and territories pamphlets and downloadable elec- In her memo to the NTSB, tronic files that explain when and Sandberg said the FMCSA believes how to use emergency exists. its proposed outreach effort will Name These safety materials would be “garner significant near-term vol- The Guide to the North American Bus Industry Title provided to motorcoach operators untary participation without the Company Yes. I want to subscribe to the for distribution to their customers need for a regulatory requirement.” 2004 Motorcoach Directory on CD Address and passengers. The motorcoach She asked the NTSB to endorse for only $79 (includes S&H).* City State Zip companies would have the flexibil- the idea and reclassify its recom- Yes. I want to subscribe to the Phone Fax ity to conduct pretrip safety brief- mendations as “closed.” 2004 Motorcoach Directory printed E-mail version for only $99 (includes S&H).** Credit Card No. FOR SALE: 1996 MCI DL3 Yes. I want both, a printed book and Visa MasterCard AmericanExpress Excellent Condition, DD Series a book on CD for the special combo Expiration Date 60, NEW Allison B500R Auto price of $150 (includes S&H).**** Trans (under warr.), 55 pass, Charge my credit card*** Alum Wheels & Tires, Loaded. My check is enclosed*** Send this card to: $139,000 The Big Fat Bus Book For faster service * Rate outside U.S. is $89 (U.S.) Call David ** Rate outside U.S. is $119 (U.S.) %The Bus Publications Group Fax Order to (877) 510-5598 1-888-382-8737 ext. 200 *** Send card in business-size envelope. 717 W. Pierson, #160 or (877) 510-5602 ****Rate outside U.S. $175 (U.S.) email for pictures Make check payable to Bus Publications Group. Phoenix, AZ 85013 [email protected]

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