ACT Bus Forum

Discussion => Fleet => Topic started by: Barry Drive on February 18, 2010, 10:45:24 AM

Title: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Barry Drive on February 18, 2010, 10:45:24 AM
A driver last night told me that he had heard that ACTION are going to buy some new artics. No info on what, when or how many.

Of course, this is unsubstantiated.
Title: Re: ACTION to buy new artics?
Post by: Buzz Killington on February 18, 2010, 07:57:31 PM
Would be great news if it proves to be accurate!
Title: Re: ACTION to buy new artics?
Post by: Irisbus Rider on February 18, 2010, 08:04:22 PM
That'd be great! But it really doesn't sound like something ACTION would do, only because it's the right thing to do......

Seriously though, this would be a step in the right direction, to allow for additional growth, hence ensuring a long term commitment to Canberras Public transport future, yada yada yada.........
Title: Re: ACTION to buy new artics?
Post by: smitho on April 07, 2010, 01:08:19 PM
While in Europe recently, I noticed bi-articulated buses are starting to make an appearance .... very impressive!

- and that in Switzerland, where I mainly travelled, artics were far more common than non-artics in larger towns and cities. They have either three or four entrances making them very quick to load and unload.
Title: Re: ACTION to buy new artics?
Post by: Bus 400 on April 07, 2010, 06:37:12 PM
I wonder if ACTION could be waiting to see the results of TransPerth's artic trial before deciding. Which by the looks of it would be Scania or MAN as the Inveco was stuck in a workshop in Perth for ages before entering service.

With a sensor pad on the rear doors & a camera that the driver can view when the rear doors are open, my hope is for the MAN artic. But until we see confirmation, I'll treat the rumour as something the NSW Government has confirmed is true (i.e. it isn't happening until the media opening).
Title: Re: ACTION to buy new artics?
Post by: Snorzac on April 07, 2010, 07:16:23 PM
Hoping for a fleet of B12BLEAs if ACTION get artics..... oh hang on, that would mean getting adBlue, they will never buy them!
Title: Re: ACTION to buy new artics?
Post by: Barry Drive on April 08, 2010, 12:08:50 PM
Quote from: Bus 400 on April 07, 2010, 06:37:12 PMI wonder if ACTION could be waiting to see the results of TransPerth's artic trial before deciding.

With a sensor pad on the rear doors & a camera that the driver can view when the rear doors are open, my hope is for the MAN artic.
You could have that on any artic chassis if you asked the body builder to do it.

Anyway, the Perth trial is for CNG artics. If (and I stress if) ACTION were to buy artics I would expect them to buy diesels. Which would likely mean MAN NG313 or Scania K320UA.
Title: Re: ACTION to buy new artics?
Post by: Busnerd on April 10, 2010, 06:11:43 PM
Personally I'd prefer they got N310UA's over the K310UA's.
Title: Re: ACTION to buy new artics?
Post by: Bus 400 on April 10, 2010, 06:13:53 PM
I suppose we won't know until the 900 series artics are due for replacement.
Title: Re: ACTION to buy new artics?
Post by: Barry Drive on April 11, 2011, 09:18:37 PM
Once again word comes that artics are on the Government's shopping list. Budget is due in about a month - will know for certain then.
Title: Re: ACTION to buy new artics?
Post by: King of Buses on May 02, 2011, 04:56:04 PM
I have two plans.

1. Buy 2 Volvo B12BLEA's, 2 Scania K32OUB's and 2 MAN NG313's. Evaluate them and buy 30 of the best type whilst keeping the other two makes in service.

2. Buy 12 of thoses three types of buses with no evaluation but only delivery.
Title: Re: ACTION to buy new artics?
Post by: Bus 400 on May 02, 2011, 05:21:59 PM
Well, Perth purchased, 1 Scania articulated bus, 1 MAN articulated bus & 1 Iveco articulated bus & Volvo won the contract for the new articulated buses.
Title: Re: Re: ACTION to buy new artics?
Post by: Barry Drive on May 02, 2011, 06:34:51 PM
Quote from: Bus 400 on May 02, 2011, 05:21:59 PM
... Volvo won the contract for the new articulated buses.
Diesel B12s? Is Perth not buying new CNGs?
Title: ACTION to buy new artics?
Post by: Bus 400 on May 02, 2011, 06:59:32 PM
The new standard Volvo's are diesel, I am led to believe Perth may go back to CNG in the future.
Title: Re: ACTION to buy new artics?
Post by: Busnerd on May 06, 2011, 01:50:30 PM
Don't know about Bendy's but Perth have ordered some silly amount of B7RLE's to be delivered over something like 7+ years
Title: ACTION to buy new artics?
Post by: Bus 400 on May 06, 2011, 05:56:31 PM
I know the total order was in order of 650 buses (standard & artic). I have read somewhere that all their high floors are to be decommissioned by 2014 though.


EDIT: The Perth contract is for a minimum of 65 buses a year for 5 years, with the PTA having discretion to extend the contract another 5 years. As a part of that order something like 50-100 articulated buses are on order.


I think ACTION will get some money for new articulated buses next budget, as the steer tag contract would of expired & it is an election year.
Title: Re: ACTION to buy new artics?
Post by: Barry Drive on May 07, 2011, 10:39:03 AM
It may not have been in the Budget, but the ACT Government is calling for tenders for supply of 20 easy-access Articulated Buses. Tenders close 7 June.

http://www.procurement.act.gov.au/tenders_advertised/tender_download/open_tenders/15525.110 (http://www.procurement.act.gov.au/tenders_advertised/tender_download/open_tenders/15525.110)
Title: Re: ACTION to buy new artics?
Post by: Bus 400 on May 07, 2011, 04:48:07 PM
Below are a few points from the tender:

-The first bus will arrive at ACTION June 2012, with the last bus arriving March 2013.
-Every bus must be diesel & is to include many features standard in ACTION buses such as seating (driver & passenger), destination, floor, ramp,etc.
-Also must be no longer then 18m & no higher then 3.57m
-The engine must have a minimum of 220kw power & 1100Nm torque.
-They must seat 65 passengers & have a total capacity greater then 105 passengers.
-Each bus must be full low floor or half & half.
-The bus must have a minimum life of 20 years.
-Thoreb system is also to be installed.
-This is to replace the older articulated buses.
Title: Re: ACTION to buy new artics?
Post by: Barry Drive on May 07, 2011, 06:43:05 PM
220 kw converts to 295 hp.

65 seating capacity rules out 3 doors.

Does the tender specify the type of passenger seats to be fitted? (McConnell Centra/Urban).

Wonder whether fleet numbers will be 491-510, 500-519 or 501-520.
Title: Re: ACTION to buy new artics?
Post by: Bus 400 on May 07, 2011, 07:30:36 PM
McConnel Urban trimmed with Holdsworth BDI314. The doors are front entry & rear entry & exit.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: King of Buses on May 09, 2011, 04:51:54 PM

How long has it taken to do the right thing?
Ages!

If 490 is gone by the time the first artic is built, they may start at 490 then go to 510.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Sir Pompously on May 09, 2011, 09:57:21 PM
I don't think 490 will be going anywhere anytime soon. Infact, I reckon we may have another 674 on our hands (Demonstrating, then staying in the fleet, whether it goes elsewhere or not).
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Bus 400 on May 09, 2011, 10:22:44 PM
I wonder what the ACTION livery will look like on an articulated bus?
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Buzz Killington on May 09, 2011, 10:35:16 PM
Quote from: Bus 400 on May 09, 2011, 10:22:44 PM
I wonder what the ACTION livery will look like on an articulated bus?

(https://www.actbus.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Factbus.net%2Fgallery%2Fmain.php%3Fg2_view%3Dcore.DownloadItem%26amp%3Bg2_itemId%3D36323%26amp%3Bg2_serialNumber%3D2&hash=0a8a4dfbff2b0fc56b9b98f5233161fa8bd64645)
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Snorzac on May 09, 2011, 10:36:16 PM
lol
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Bus 400 on May 09, 2011, 10:37:16 PM
Funny, I meant the new articulates.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Buzz Killington on May 09, 2011, 10:39:23 PM
(https://www.actbus.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi131.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fp314%2Fcatwithagatt%2Fostrich.jpg&hash=c47f7e7187a58a71ce253ddb568092d94065bcde)
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Busnerd on May 10, 2011, 11:42:54 AM
LOL!
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Barry Drive on May 11, 2011, 12:27:08 PM
Quote from: King of Buses on May 09, 2011, 04:51:54 PM
If 490 is gone by the time the first artic is built, they may start at 490 then go to 510.
Quick maths quiz: if you have 20 buses in a class, and the first bus is numbered 490 and all other buses are numbered consecutively, what will be the fleet number of:

(a) the 2nd bus
(b) the 5th bus
(c) the 10th bus
(d) the 20th bus.

Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: King of Buses on May 12, 2011, 06:13:08 PM
Damn Calculator!
I was bored in my science class theother day and added the numbers together!
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Snorzac on May 12, 2011, 09:50:20 PM
The calculator is only as smart as the person using it.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: ajw373 on May 16, 2011, 05:51:45 PM
Quote from: King of Buses on May 12, 2011, 06:13:08 PM
Damn Calculator!
I was bored in my science class theother day and added the numbers together!

Many had the same issue when they celebrated the new millennium on 1st Jan 2000. A year early of course.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: ajw373 on May 16, 2011, 05:55:49 PM
Quote from: Sir Pompously on May 09, 2011, 09:57:21 PM
I don't think 490 will be going anywhere anytime soon. Infact, I reckon we may have another 674 on our hands (Demonstrating, then staying in the fleet, whether it goes elsewhere or not).

That's not quite what happened with 674. It was only given 674 when it was purchased outright by Action. When it was an evaluation unit it carried a different fleet number.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Sir Pompously on May 16, 2011, 06:07:07 PM
I am aware of the history of 674, infact I wasn't even talking number wise about 674. I was saying that it will probably end up a permanent member of the fleet, that part is irrelevant to numbering. If 490 did stay in the fleet, I don't think it would be going anywhere or have a fleet number change. Pure speculation, but there is no reason for ACTION to change the number nor would they bother these days of doing so. Yeah, 674 didn't require a change, but they were different times......
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: King of Buses on May 17, 2011, 05:09:20 PM
674 had 3 numbers in it's life because of buses being added. 888, 672 and then what we all know it as. (674)
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Sir Pompously on May 17, 2011, 06:23:11 PM
Sadly, I don't think the reason was because of buses being added to the fleet. 888 was its fleet number in 1985 only, 888 as we know it was introduced in 1990.

672 is a possibility, as a MAN Artic was introduced in 1986 the same time 674 was registered as 674. What you must remember is that ACTION in those days had allocations of numbers for demonstrator vehicles (And that seems to sort of be the case up until a few years ago where they would use a batch of numbers). These days they don't seem to worry about numbering evaluations (Let alone changing their numbers around). Buses are evaluated for a short time only, under the registration of the holder (Or visiting on trade plates or a temp permit). 490 is an odd one that seems as though it may stay in the fleet, I say may as I don't think it has been confirmed. My bet is the artics will start at 491 or they will even it up to 500. 
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Buzz Killington on May 17, 2011, 06:32:21 PM
490 is remaining with ACTION indefinitely at this point, but it could be prudent to start the artics at 500 to keep a few spares for evaluation, but that way of thinking seems to be a thing of the past.
Title: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Snorzac on May 17, 2011, 07:36:11 PM
Speaking of 490, it got towed home on Friday
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Busnerd on May 18, 2011, 04:27:14 AM
As much as we all like even fleet numbers they will just go with what is next. So it will most likely start at 491.

Don't forget that the Gas MANs started at 374...they don't care about rounding out numbers they just want to do them in order.
Title: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Bus 400 on June 11, 2011, 06:50:48 AM
The tender has no closed, the applicants can be found at http://www.procurement.act.gov.au/tenders_advertised/tender_download/closed_tenders/15525.110

Has anyone heard of the MAM Imports? EDIT: After doing a Google search, this must be a spelling error & is intact MAN, so I hope they win with the Volgren low floor body (as can be seen on Sydney buses).

After hearing of the issues with Perth's Iveco, I hope ACTION don't get any of them. It would be nice for new Mercedes Buses. It will be like the old days with MAN's & Mercedes Buses on Canberra roads.

The winner will be awarded in July, so watch this space.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Snorzac on June 11, 2011, 11:25:45 AM
Interesting to note that Volvo didn't tender for the contract. I believe if Mercedes win they would be the first Merc artics in Australia since the O305Gs!
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Buzz Killington on June 11, 2011, 12:30:14 PM
Good to see a variety of tenders submitted.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: volvo on July 07, 2011, 07:15:11 AM
Quote from: Metrobus on June 11, 2011, 11:25:45 AM
Interesting to note that Volvo didn't tender for the contract. I believe if Mercedes win they would be the first Merc artics in Australia since the O305Gs!
Volgren Australia make bodies so they may make Volvos.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: The Love Guru on July 07, 2011, 08:39:11 AM
Quote from: volvo on July 07, 2011, 07:15:11 AM
Volgren Australia make bodies so they may make Volvos.

Volgren make bus bodies, Volvo make bus chassis. As Volvo didn't tender they cannot win the tender for the buses. Hence they wont be Volvos. There could be Volgren bodies on whichever chassis manufacturer wins the tender.

I want my money on MAN artics with CB80 (EvoII CB60 if they can get it)
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: ajw373 on July 07, 2011, 09:54:10 AM
Chris, what 'Volvo' is saying could also be the case. The contract is for the supply of a complete chassis/body combination, it is not a split contract for a chassis and a body where ACTION can could choose a chassis and body separately. If it were the latter then yes clearly only the products of the 4 chassis makers who responded could appear, but since two body builders have also submitted bids other chassis may form part of their bid. It is also possible for example that say MAN has submitted their own bid using a particular body builder, and one of the body builders have also submitted a separate bid using a MAN chassis.

What we don't know from the list of 6 companies who responded to the tender is who each of the 4 chassis makers have partnered with to build their bodies so it is possible the body could be made by a company other than Customs or Volgren. Likewise we don't know who the two body makers have partnered with to supply chassis for their bids.

So even though Volvo have not submitted a bid in their own right, it is still quite possible that Volgren or Customs for that matter, have submitted a bid based on a Volvo chassis. So Volvo is not actually out of the running, provided Volgren or Customs are using a Volvo chassis in their respective bids.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: The Love Guru on July 07, 2011, 10:29:45 AM
I see your point. I am assuming that the chassis manufacturers would offer the bodies of both manufacturers, providing they can meet the minimum seating requirement.

Strange that Customs and Volgren are asked to tender for a fully assembled bus. Price are heavily reflected on size of order etc and it would take considerable effort for them to gain the information for every type of chassis out there.

Would have made a lot more sense to tender for a chassis provider first, then do a seperate tender for the bodying of the chosen chassis. This way body building companys would be able to do more specific tenders rather than trying to rush through every type of chassis they build on (assuming of course they don't have a preferred chassis supplier, in which case it would give that supplier an unfair advantage)
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: ajw373 on July 07, 2011, 12:49:30 PM
A split contract means double the work to manage as well as double the risks. With a single contractor ACTION only has one company to deal with and kick up the bum if anything goes wrong.

Not many, if any major operators use split contracts anymore. Also it isn't a case of ACTION inviting companies to bid, it is up to companies to respond with a bid that they feel meets the requirements. Hence why you see both chassis and body makers bidding in partnership with other companies. If finance is involved you may also see banks etc either being part of a bid or even as the prime contractor.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Busnerd on July 12, 2011, 01:07:45 AM
I believe Customs usually uses Mercs. as their prototype buses, presumably because there is usually stock of merc chassis in the country whereas things like scanias usually run out and aren't around.

The CB80 was designed originally on the 0500 chassis and then the different variants were made based on other chassis' on computer modelling etc. Volgren's are typically Volvo's it seems, due to their partnership no doubt. But I am hoping for MAN bendies on CB80 body...the new adelaide CB80 artics do look quite ncie
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: ajw373 on July 12, 2011, 07:08:49 AM
Volvo is no longer a partner in Volgren. It is now 100% owned by Grenada.

I also think we cannot assume that just because a body builder builds a lot of a certain type of chassis that is what they have put forward in their respective bids. The chassis could be anything that the bidder thinks meets ACTION's tender specification.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: jasp3r on July 12, 2011, 05:11:20 PM
I agree with ajw373. Anyway when we get these artics, are they going to be solely destined for school runs or are they going to end up on Intertowns, Blue Rapids or whatever you call them? Similar to the 333 days.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: volvo on July 20, 2011, 06:26:02 AM
Well you Cant just have a body without a chassis so one has to assume that a company such as Volgren or Custom Coaches will deal with the chassis, probably using their preffered chassis supplier, however if you loook at the buses we've got now they're all differnt ( Scanias, MANs, Irisbuses etc) but they all have CB60 bodies so its a bit of a puzzle...
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: volvo on July 20, 2011, 06:29:45 AM
I reckon the artics wont be useed for school routes until the old artics have completely withered away and they'll probably be used for  Blue rapids as well instead of or as well as the 14.5m Scania K320UBs
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: ajw373 on July 20, 2011, 07:29:48 AM
Quote from: volvo on July 20, 2011, 06:26:02 AM
Well you Cant just have a body without a chassis so one has to assume that a company such as Volgren or Custom Coaches will deal with the chassis, probably using their preffered chassis supplier, however if you loook at the buses we've got now they're all differnt ( Scanias, MANs, Irisbuses etc) but they all have CB60 bodies so its a bit of a puzzle...

Why is it a puzzle? The Irisbuses were ordered by Kings Brothers with the CB60 body, Action brought them as stock units when Kings went belly up. With the Scania orders Scania was the prime contractor (the original gas buses were a tack on order for the SA Government) and clearly submitted a bid that had a CB60 body, and with the latest MAN order MAN was the prime contractor and clearly submitted a bit with a CB60 body.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: jasp3r on July 20, 2011, 08:27:38 AM
Quote from: volvo on July 20, 2011, 06:29:45 AM
I reckon the artics wont be useed for school routes until the old artics have completely withered away and they'll probably be used for  Blue rapids as well instead of or as well as the 14.5m Scania K320UBs
Remember, after the 333 was deleted, with the new system of intertowns with the suburb route at the end they didn't artics on those runs. To bring back the artics there would need to be a Blue Rapid shake up. The stags can be considered rather pathetic for suburbs, and tight streets, so will probably remain on the Intertown for the majority of their life. The new artics probably will feature rather predominantly on Charters, including the free ones to the various sporting games. That said I would like to see artics on the intertown
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Buzz Killington on July 20, 2011, 05:39:30 PM
I'd say we'll see a much higher percentage of route 300 and routes 312/3/4/5/8/9 covered by stags and artics, which would see more of the MANs and Scanias popping up elsewhere in place of withdrawn Renaults.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: smitho on July 20, 2011, 09:02:17 PM
Quote from: Buzz Killington on July 20, 2011, 05:39:30 PM
I'd say we'll see a much higher percentage of route 300 and routes 312/3/4/5/8/9 covered by stags and artics, which would see more of the MANs and Scanias popping up elsewhere in place of withdrawn Renaults.

Agree with you on that BK. New artics couldn't be justified on the basis of school runs and charters as that would leave them unoccupied for most of the day and so hopelessly uneconomic. Can see them being used on Red Intertowns as well - peak loads especially.

Current artics are just not 'up to scratch' performance wise for bringing them back on to intertown work..quite apart from them being a bit tired and shabby.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: AOQ951 on July 21, 2011, 11:08:55 AM
From what I can gather from the Maintenance Conference in Melbourne recently, Volvo aren't interested in winning anymore artic contracts at the moment with the last of the B12BLEA's being delivered soon. They don't have an artic chassis in their line up for Australia yet and to adopt the 9 litre or 13 litre engine into the existing artic chassis would require engineering alterations and testing etc approved by head office in Sweden. Volvo Bus Australia simply aren't ready at the moment and don't want to put an inferior product out after the successful run of the B12BLEA's. If you check out the Volvo Bus Australia website, there is no artic chassis on offer. There is however a B9L artic chassis in Europe but it probably hasn't been tested and passed ADR's here yet. ADR's do cause headaches for heavy vehicle manufacturers when they bring out a new product, one prime example is Australia's axle weights. So going on that, I doubt we'll be seeing Volvo artics in Canberra for sometime.

On the subject of the bus body  / chassis tendering. I think you will find each chassis manufacturer will put in a bid of $X for 20 artic chassis's and say yes we can supply those in this time frame to the bodybuilder of your choice. Our chassis has XYZ features (which hopefully fulfil the terms in the tender). The body builders will also put a bid in of $Y and say we can build on A, B, and C type chassis's to the spec in the tender with UVW features. The bodybuilders have a pretty good idea of what artic chassis are available in Australia. (There aren't that many lol) Thesedays, particularly with the European bus chassis, the way the body is mounted to the chassis is very similar and doesn't drastically change the cost of the body. What does dictate the price of the body is more so the dimensions. The longer / taller the bus the more expensive it is as it requires more materials. The spec's in the tender paper seem reasonably standard with whats about in the bus industry by todays standards. One thing that will bring the price down is its a bulk order of a single design vehicle - thats easy money to a bodybuilder as they can pump out the buses quite quickly after the first couple and get a system going. That was mentioned during the Volgren Queensland Tour recently.

I hope that's a little insight into what happens when companies order new vehicles. Most of the time is quite systematic, but its not always smooth sailing.

Cheers
AOQ951
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Snorzac on July 23, 2011, 11:00:36 PM
How do you find the results of a tender? The closed tender page is now gone so I assume they have reached an agreement with someone.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Barry Drive on July 23, 2011, 11:22:14 PM
Just have to wait until the contract is posted.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: ajw373 on July 24, 2011, 09:54:09 AM
Quote from: Metrobus on July 23, 2011, 11:00:36 PM
How do you find the results of a tender? The closed tender page is now gone so I assume they have reached an agreement with someone.

What will happen is Action will select a preferred supplier. They will then go into contract negotiation mode, which may include variances, then once the contract is signed it will be made public. If during contract negotiation agreement cannot be met they will go to their 2nd choice supplier and negotiate with them.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Barry Drive on July 30, 2011, 12:28:18 PM
If the fleet number range is 506 - 525 as now expected then 510 will be the first number to have been used twice on an artic.
Title: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Bus 400 on August 30, 2011, 07:53:34 PM
Following on from the ACTVCC on Twitter, I asked about the new articulated buses. The reply I received was the tender process is still going on & should be done by the end of the year.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: volvo on October 05, 2011, 09:49:10 PM
What about Mercedes? It's possible, does anyone remember if they were in the tender? I suppose the only way to fid out is to wait.

We can't really say what routes they'll be used on, I can see them on Red Rapids but you can't say for sure.
Title: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Bus 400 on October 06, 2011, 01:15:17 PM
They'll also be on blue rapids, school runs, Xpresso's & humble suburban runs. Basically whatever the PR180's are doing now.

I am 90% sure they submitted a tender. As I recall something being said about it being the first Mercedes Artic in Australia since the O305G's.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Merv319 on October 15, 2011, 06:12:16 AM
I'm so sorry for posting too late, but, as I've heard from a driver about 3 weeks ago, the artics will be scania buses. Not sure which brand will make the body.

The driver was a TG driver, doing a N958 on Sunday afternoon.
Title: Scania K36OUA CB80 Buses for ACTION
Post by: King of Buses on November 14, 2011, 03:13:12 PM
According to the Australian Bus magazine,
ACTION will be getting Scania K36OUA Artics with CB80 bodies.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Sir Pompously on November 14, 2011, 06:23:46 PM
Ohhh combo artic! Wonder if they will spec them at two or three doors?
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Snorzac on November 14, 2011, 06:33:24 PM
Nothing is official until there's a contract...which there's not.
Title: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Bus 400 on November 14, 2011, 06:42:37 PM
Quote from: Sir Pompously on November 14, 2011, 06:23:46 PM
Ohhh combo artic! Wonder if they will spec them at two or three doors?

Tender stated they must be two doors.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: smitho on November 15, 2011, 12:20:53 PM
New deliveries may be up to 30 artics; understand that choice of Scania is pretty certain.

Whether Renault artics are withdrawn as Scanias are introduced now seems less certain. Wouldn't be surprised if we see Renaults remaining in school run service for some time to come, while new artic fleet gets put into intertown and other scheduled public services.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Sir Pompously on November 15, 2011, 03:23:04 PM
They should withdraw some Renault artics as spares for those left in the fleet. An overhaul wouldn't go astray, new seat covering, re-do the floor and give them a lick of new paint to keep them looking ok and recondition the engine and gearbox. They are perfect for school runs and charters, and can leave the newer artics to run on rapid services and those school runs that require a low floor artic.

Unless there is an operator that is looking for second hand articulated buses (there would be a market there, just whether they want Renaults is another thing), I am not sure they will sell that well. The 180.2's are clapped out and are ready to be replaced or overhauled, which isn't exactly a positive selling point!
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: CNG on November 15, 2011, 04:57:59 PM
i would buy an old action artic lol
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Buzz Killington on November 15, 2011, 06:32:33 PM
Quote from: Sir Pompously on November 15, 2011, 03:23:04 PM
They should withdraw some Renault artics as spares for those left in the fleet.

Definitely. Not so sure about the cosmetics though, particularly if they're going to end up on school runs (the reason they look worse for wear on the inside)
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Sir Pompously on November 15, 2011, 08:01:34 PM
Quote from: Buzz Killington on November 15, 2011, 06:32:33 PM
Definitely. Not so sure about the cosmetics though, particularly if they're going to end up on school runs (the reason they look worse for wear on the inside)

Cosmetics simply because it needs to be done. They can replace the fabric with vinyl for all I care :P But the flooring needs to be done, more under the floor than the covering itself.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Busnerd on November 16, 2011, 12:43:39 PM
It will be a sad day when these buses are withdrawn. I love the arctics and they're so nice to ride. Personally I love the mk2 arctics more because the saydair seats really make the difference and make the bus look so much nicer! Hopefully they don't scrap them and sell them instead. I would love to buy one but I would assume they would sell for $10,000+ which probably isn't affordable
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Barry Drive on November 16, 2011, 01:32:58 PM
Quote from: smitho on November 15, 2011, 12:20:53 PM
New deliveries may be up to 30 artics
Tender was for 20 buses, but it can be varied later.

Quote from: smitho on November 15, 2011, 12:20:53 PM
Whether Renault artics are withdrawn as Scanias are introduced now seems less certain.

It will depend on how quickly they can bring the new buses into service, but by my calculations if 13 low floor artics are in service as at 31 December 2012, they will just meet DDA without having to withdraw any PR180.2s (or any other bus for that matter). If, on the other hand, they withdrew 5 and put 10 new in service by Dec '12, they would make DDA easily.

Since all artics are currently in service during peak, the only way that new artics can be put onto peak "Rapid" or "Xpresso" services would be if at least some of the current artics remain in service.

All I know for sure is that the first 5 new artics will go to Belconnen Depot and their 5 Mk2s will be sent to Tuggeranong.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: King of Buses on November 16, 2011, 02:18:20 PM
I want to by 725 when it comes for sale! :)
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: smitho on November 16, 2011, 10:25:49 PM
Quote from: King of Buses on November 16, 2011, 02:18:20 PM
I want to by 725 when it comes for sale! :)
I had 725 today - was OK, but I wouldn't rave about it.

719 is by far the best performer in the fleet right now.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: King of Buses on November 17, 2011, 01:15:57 PM
I got 725 yesterday arvo on a 500.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Barry Drive on November 17, 2011, 01:51:05 PM
Quote from: Metrobus on November 14, 2011, 06:33:24 PM
Nothing is official until there's a contract...which there's not.
There is a contract: it is now official. Scania K360UA with CB80 body.

To view contract (http://www.procurement.act.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0004/260887/2010.15525.220_Contract_Final_Public_Text.pdf).

Some highlights:
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Busnerd on November 17, 2011, 05:12:37 PM
Do we know if the second door will be in the trailer or in the front half? and will it be a single leaf rear door as per the stags?
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Barry Drive on November 17, 2011, 06:17:30 PM
Double door, in rear half (specs show steps at rear exit). Location unknown, but presumed to be in usual spot.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Bus 400 on November 19, 2011, 11:19:51 PM
For those after a rough idea of what the new artic will look like, check out http://www.busaustralia.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=45&t=63069&p=748920#p748920.

Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: smitho on November 24, 2011, 12:34:34 AM
Nice to see these new additions to the Adelaide Metro fleet continue an old tradition carried over from the Adelaide street tramway era of the 1950s, namely, painting the external bus numbers in 'regal red'.

This was the standard colour for bus and tram numbers when all the MTT (Metropolitan Tramways Trust) buses and trams were painted silver with contrasted regal red horizontal stripes and tram/bus numbers. This livery was adopted from the early 1950s and continued through into the STA era (State Transport Authority, later Trans Adelaide).
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Buzz Killington on November 29, 2011, 07:40:23 PM
Custom Coaches are saying that the new artics will replace twenty of the PR180.2's, with the other 13 to remain in service (by reading between the lines where they say the remaining 13 will be replaced at a later date)

http://customcoaches.com.au/custom-to-supply-20-artics-to-action/
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: smitho on November 29, 2011, 10:12:37 PM
That's interesting...it should be an accurate and reliable source.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: ajw373 on November 30, 2011, 06:56:02 AM
The radio news over the weekend was also mentioning the fact that only 20 old buses will be replaced, though took the report with a grain of salt especially when they said they were Caterpillar buses. They also said that the cost was something like $74m, so $3.7m per bus. Seems an awful lot of money.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Barry Drive on November 30, 2011, 10:27:32 AM
Quote from: ajw373 on November 30, 2011, 06:56:02 AM
Seems an awful lot of money.
Contract total is shown on ACT Government procurement website. To the dollar, amount is listed as $14,815,196.00 so $740,759.80 per bus.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Kramden on November 30, 2011, 03:47:52 PM
Quote from: Buzz Killington on November 29, 2011, 07:40:23 PM
Custom Coaches are saying that the new artics will replace twenty of the PR180.2's, with the other 13 to remain in service (by reading between the lines where they say the remaining 13 will be replaced at a later date)

While it's noteworthy to know the amount of new artics coming the thing that concerns me is where/how will they be used.  I understand that some artics will remain in service and I assume these can be assigned to heavy load school runs.  But I wonder what's gonna happen when those 13 are done with.  It's a troubling thought that new buses would be put on school runs.  My God, you can just imagine the rough treatment they'd get from some students.

Personally I like to see them on regular intertowns and select charters depending on the clientele, e.g no one from Charnwood, LOL!

And while we ponder about where to best use these artics what will become of the under-used STAGs.  Is it me or do they spend most of their life in the sheds?  Sure, I know they're mostly on intertowns but I hear that using them for school runs doesn't work due to their size at most school bus bays.  Nice buses but totally wasted at the moment in my view.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: ajw373 on November 30, 2011, 06:47:20 PM
Quote from: Kramden on November 30, 2011, 03:47:52 PM
While it's noteworthy to know the amount of new artics coming the thing that concerns me is where/how will they be used.  I understand that some artics will remain in service and I assume these can be assigend to heavy load school runs.  But I wonder what's gonna happen when those 13 are done with.  It's a troubling thought that new buses would be put on school runs.  My God, you can just imagine the rough treatment they'd get from some students.

Personally I like to see them on regular intertowns and select charters depending on the clientele, e.g no one from Charnwood, LOL!

And while we ponder about where to best use these artics what will become of the under-used STAGs.  Is it me or do they spend most of their life in the sheds?  Sure, I know they're mostly on intertowns but I hear that using them for school runs doesn't work due to their size at most school bus bays.  Nice buses but totally wasted at the the moment in my view.

Bet the radio reporter miss-read the press release and got 7 instead of 1. Certainly a much better price. Anyway what can you expect from FM104.7 and 106, I mean to say their traffic reported cannot even pronounce the names of half the streets in Canberra. No idea where they got Caterpillar from though, not even close to Scania or Custom Coaches.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Kramden on December 01, 2011, 10:18:17 AM
Quote from: ajw373 on November 30, 2011, 06:47:20 PM
Bet the radio reporter miss-read the press release and got 7 instead of 1. Certainly a much better price. Anyway what can you expect from FM104.7 and 106, I mean to say their traffic reported cannot even pronounce the names of half the streets in Canberra. No idea where they got Caterpillar from though, not even close to Scania or Custom Coaches.

Mispronouncing of Canberra streets or suburbs on radio is par for the course I'm afraid.  It's been happening for a L-O-N-G time. Don't take it too personally.  Many of our young local radio people are blow ins from out of town.  They'll learn if they stay around.

As for my take about a reference to Caterpillar buses is that the reporter was probably attempting to describe 'look' of the bus rather than its brand or who builds it.  Just as we all know that artics are commonly referred to as 'Bendy Buses' among the general public, the reporter may have once heard/read an artic described as a snake bus, a worm bus, or a caterpillar bus, i.e. the way in which they snake around corners.

The main thing is: the reporter did not refer to them as 'artics'.  That's too much an 'in term' and any reporter worth his/her salt avoids such expressions in general news.  Reporters need to be aware of their audience's understanding of the message they're broadcasting.  A lot of people catch buses but in my experience they couldn't tell you the difference between a desto and a validator.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Barry Drive on December 01, 2011, 12:26:47 PM
Quote from: ajw373 on November 30, 2011, 06:56:02 AM
They also said that the cost was something like $74m

From the Media Release (http://www.actbus.net/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1028): "The procurement of the 20 replacement articulated buses is included in the $75.5m of funding previously provided by the ACT Government."

So maybe the news report misunderstood the phase is included in, or else you mis-heard what was said. The actual cost of just the 20 artics was not in the release and I doubt that news outlets would bother to research beyond what is contained in a Media Release.

Quote from: ajw373 on November 30, 2011, 06:47:20 PM
Anyway what can you expect from FM104.7 and 106, I mean to say their traffic reported (sic) cannot even pronounce the names of half the streets in Canberra.
This might also have something to do with the fact that said traffic reporters are based in Sydney.
Title: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Bus 400 on December 01, 2011, 12:27:26 PM
Kramden-Bus 390 was sent on school run from Campbell High to Watson & Dickson College to the City in its first few weeks of service & survived all right.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Kramden on December 01, 2011, 01:12:02 PM
Pleasing to hear 390 survived...survives.  What I'm getting is: if a new artic was used day in/day out for schoolies over a long period.  I'd just be interested in how they'd look in the saloon after school runs on a prolonged basis. Would they show wear and tear at a faster rate than if used on intertowns or charters.

In raising this I don't mean to slag off at every school student accusing them as irresponsible bus users.   
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: ajw373 on December 01, 2011, 06:20:08 PM
Quote from: Kramden on December 01, 2011, 10:18:17 AM
The main thing is: the reporter did not refer to them as 'artics'.  That's too much an 'in term' and any reporter worth his/her salt avoids such expressions in general news.  Reporters need to be aware of their audience's understanding of the message they're broadcasting.  A lot of people catch buses but in my experience they couldn't tell you the difference between a desto and a validator.

Actually they did, they called the Caterpillar articulated buses.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Kramden on December 02, 2011, 12:38:40 AM
Quote from: ajw373 on December 01, 2011, 06:20:08 PM
Actually they did, they called the Caterpillar articulated buses.

My point was about using the term 'artic'.  I think it's fine to say articulated for a broad audience.  Most people will understand what that is.  Artic however, sounds too much like 'arctic'.  Buses for icy roads!  As for Caterpillar, God only knows where the f*@k they got the Caterpillar reference. Maybe they had bus brands mixed up with a brand of earth moving vehicles.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Buzz Killington on December 02, 2011, 09:30:09 PM
I suspect caterpillar was the slang term the reporter has for the artics - I know I used to hear a lot of different terms for them as a kid ('bendy bus' being the most popular)
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: lukeo25 on December 02, 2011, 10:11:35 PM
My sis calls them accordion buses?!
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: smitho on December 02, 2011, 11:53:39 PM
Common terminology used by the public is 'bendy buses'...or sometimes, 'flexibuses'.

Both are OK in getting the message across.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: ajw373 on December 03, 2011, 08:08:26 AM
Quote from: Buzz Killington on December 02, 2011, 09:30:09 PM
I suspect caterpillar was the slang term the reporter has for the artics - I know I used to hear a lot of different terms for them as a kid ('bendy bus' being the most popular)

As I said above he said they were "Caterpillar articulated buses", so I am 99% certain he was referring to brand. As for slang names I used to call them banana buses.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Kramden on December 03, 2011, 10:04:19 AM
Quote from: ajw373 on December 03, 2011, 08:08:26 AM
As I said above he said they were "Caterpillar articulated buses", so I am 99% certain he was referring to brand. As for slang names I used to call them banana buses.

OK then, let's all take comfort in the knowledge that the reporter will not be receiving a Walkley Award for Journalism with regard to their bus story.

I think flexi-buses (as mentioned by Smitho) has a nice ring to it here in Canberra – the spiritual home of flex time.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: smitho on December 09, 2011, 11:49:51 PM
It will be interesting to see when Australia catches up with Europe and imports some bi-artics.

They'd be good in Perth and on the Adelaide O-Bahn, not to mention a 333 - type intertown express service in Canberra.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: CNG on January 02, 2012, 07:38:28 AM
i was thinking how are action going to defferenciate between the old and new artics when they arrive in regards to scheduling. As the new artis will surley not be used on school runs and more so just on intertowns and high capacity runs. Maybe the new artics will be stamped as something like caterpillar bus- i dunno.
Title: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Bus 400 on January 02, 2012, 12:52:18 PM
What about "low floor artic" & "high floor artic"?
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Bus 400 on January 02, 2012, 09:45:30 PM
Quote from: smitho on December 09, 2011, 11:49:51 PM
It will be interesting to see when Australia catches up with Europe and imports some bi-artics.

They'd be good in Perth and on the Adelaide O-Bahn, not to mention a 333 - type intertown express service in Canberra.

By the looks of things, Custom Coaches are developing their own bi-artic, all information can be found at http://customcoaches.com.au/showroom/custom-mass-transit/
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Sir Pompously on January 03, 2012, 12:11:03 AM
It also would not surprise me if Bustech also look at a Bi-Artic. I am sure they had a concept image up on their page as well.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Barry Drive on January 03, 2012, 11:27:20 AM
Quote from: CNG on January 02, 2012, 07:38:28 AM
i was thinking how are action going to defferenciate between the old and new artics when they arrive in regards to scheduling. As the new artis will surley not be used on school runs and more so just on intertowns and high capacity runs.
Next network planned to commence in May 2012. First low-floor artic will be delivered in June/July 2012. Old artics will be withdrawn as new artics arrive (first 5 believed to be allocated to B depot). Join the dots.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: ajw373 on January 03, 2012, 01:21:17 PM
Are there any runs at present that comprise of just school runs or do they do some normal routes with a school run thrown in when needed? If I were a betting man I would say the latter in which case the new buses will, like all buses at present be seen on school runs as well as normal route runs.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Buzz Killington on January 03, 2012, 04:38:27 PM
Quote from: CNG on January 02, 2012, 07:38:28 AM
i was thinking how are action going to defferenciate between the old and new artics when they arrive in regards to scheduling. As the new artis will surley not be used on school runs and more so just on intertowns and high capacity runs. Maybe the new artics will be stamped as something like caterpillar bus- i dunno.

Brand new MANs have been used on school services so no doubt the new artics will be too. Probably won't see the new artics doing anything wildly different to what the current ones are doing - the stags will obviously get priority on intertowns given they're fairly useless or unnecessary on a lot of other routes.
Title: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Bus 400 on January 03, 2012, 06:27:09 PM
Quote from: ACTbusspotter on January 03, 2012, 11:27:20 AM
..... (first 5 believed to be allocated to B depot).

If the 6 MkI artics at Belconnen are transferred for others at Tuggeranong to be withdrawn. Then Tuggeranong would have all 25 MkI artics with ACTION.
I am aware things will occur over time & not all 5 will enter the service at once & all 6 would be sent over to Tuggeranong.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Buzz Killington on January 03, 2012, 06:38:03 PM
Quote from: Bus 400 on January 03, 2012, 06:27:09 PM
If the 6 MkI artics at Belconnen are transferred for others at Tuggeranong to be withdrawn.

Probably not much point in doing that. Won't matter too much if 704-709 are withdrawn before 700-702.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Barry Drive on January 03, 2012, 09:09:31 PM
Assuming each depot will get 10 new artics each, the first 5 to B may result in 4 Mk2s being transferred and 1 Mk1 withdrawn from B & 4 from T, then 10 to T and another 5 to B.

Another option might be to give B 11 and send all Mk2s to T.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: CNG on January 04, 2012, 01:39:44 PM
I just thought this was an interesting read for everyone, good chance to have a visual reference of the body aswell.
http://customcoaches.com.au/custom-to-supply-20-artics-to-action/#more-3793
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Buzz Killington on January 04, 2012, 04:45:56 PM
Posted back on 29 November, but thanks anyway.

Quote from: Buzz Killington on November 29, 2011, 07:40:23 PM
Custom Coaches are saying that the new artics will replace twenty of the PR180.2's, with the other 13 to remain in service (by reading between the lines where they say the remaining 13 will be replaced at a later date)

http://customcoaches.com.au/custom-to-supply-20-artics-to-action/
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Merv319 on February 12, 2012, 12:38:56 AM
Just heard from a Tuggeranong driver today; Belco will get 5 of the artics and the rest 15 will be Tuggy's.

(My speculation) I guess it is actually 6 going to Belco and 14 for TG, since if only 5 will go to Belco then they can't get rid of all 6 Belco Mk1 artic.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Barry Drive on February 12, 2012, 11:22:55 AM
Who said they want to get rid of Mk1 artics from B? If what you say is correct (and it does make some sort of sense), the 5 going to B may result in all of B's Mk2s going to T. Then they can decide which are the best 6 remaining Mk1s, all of which will be sent to B (unless some end up at a re-opened Woden ).

End result:
                       B         T
180.2 Mk1    6        0
180.2 Mk2    0        7
K360UA        5       15
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: smitho on February 12, 2012, 12:01:14 PM
Re existing artic fleet at Tuggeranong, as far as I can tell, they've all been fitted with new two way radio systems and generally seem to be in pretty good mechanical condition - certainly seem better than when I first started driving them in 2007.

I wouldn't be surprised to see a good proportion of the fleet remaining in service at both depots (perhaps even Woden) for some time to come.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Barry Drive on February 12, 2012, 12:38:55 PM
Quote from: smitho on February 12, 2012, 12:01:14 PM
I wouldn't be surprised to see a good proportion of the fleet remaining in service at both depots (perhaps even Woden) for some time to come.
It has already been established that the 20 new artics are all replacements. So only 13 Renualt PR180.2s will remain in April/May 2013 - at which point a varied contract may be in place to replace those by the end of 2013.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: volvo on February 26, 2012, 02:29:44 PM
We've had plenty of MAN's that were meant to replace old PR 100.2's but didn't replace them straight away, so when we get the new artics we won't necessarily only have 13 Renault artics directly after that. We'll probably see 20 Renaults disappear by the end of the year though.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Bus 400 on February 26, 2012, 04:35:02 PM
By the end of 2012, 15 Scania artics are due to arrive. With another 3 over the summer school holidays. I would expect only 13/14 to enter service by 2013. The other 5/6 may enter in the new school year, but that is only speculation.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: CNG on February 27, 2012, 04:11:27 PM
good so the most of them wil be their in time just for when i start my driving career at action.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Bus 400 on May 16, 2012, 08:28:15 PM
ACTION is reporting via Twitter:

Quote from: @ACTIONBuses
Our first new artic (big bendy bus) in 19 years is on its way and due to arrive in Canberra on 13 July 2012.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Barry Drive on May 17, 2012, 09:54:22 AM
Although the contract states that "Acceptance of bus" is due on 1 June 2012. Is 13 July the expected on-road date / media launch date?
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Bus 400 on May 30, 2012, 09:06:30 PM
ACTION tweeted the below photo of one of the new artics "getting her dress on"

(https://p.twimg.com/AuHnb_DCAAAj0Sr.jpg:large)


You've got to love the white front half.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: ajw373 on June 02, 2012, 09:42:24 AM
Obviously will need a much better picture (or to see in the flesh) to really make my mind up, but based on the first picture I really don't like the livery, especially the trailer section which is far too green. Not sure how this style of livery could be modified to look better though.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: AOQ951 on June 03, 2012, 09:50:38 PM
Quote from: ajw373 on June 02, 2012, 09:42:24 AM
Obviously will need a much better picture (or to see in the flesh) to really make my mind up, but based on the first picture I really don't like the livery, especially the trailer section which is far too green. Not sure how this style of livery could be modified to look better though.

LOL I thought the opposite. I think the Green and Orange swept stripes are too far back on the front section. I would of thought these would of been painted up to try and match the rigid vehicles in the fleet where those stripes are alot further forward. I think by the time the ACTION Logo goes on (leaving the stripes in the form as in the photo), its going to look unfinished or plain. Unless ofcourse the logo is alot bigger. The other option to fill in the gap could be ads :(

We'll wait and see ofcourse :)

Cheers
AOQ951  8)
Title: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Bus 400 on June 03, 2012, 09:56:12 PM
Quote from: AOQ951 on June 03, 2012, 09:50:38 PMI think by the time the ACTION Logo goes on (leaving the stripes in the form as in the photo), its going to look unfinished or plain. Unless ofcourse the logo is alot bigger.

If you compare the ACTION Logo's on say Bus 484 to Bus 464, to me the logo on B us 484 looks bigger, so this may be what happens.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Barry Drive on June 06, 2012, 01:45:04 PM
Based on figures in the Budget Papers, looks like they will be varying the contract with Scania to deliver an additional 13 artics by 30 June 2013. (The 13 buses for 2012-13 are listed as costing $9,723,000 - $748,000 each).
Title: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Bus 400 on June 06, 2012, 06:21:25 PM

Will these 33 buses will replace all the arctics? Or wether one of the original 34 will be kept? That is if someone remembers ACTION use to have Bus 703.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: ajw373 on June 06, 2012, 07:02:57 PM
Quote from: ACTbusspotter on June 06, 2012, 01:45:04 PM
Based on figures in the Budget Papers, looks like they will be varying the contract with Scania to deliver an additional 13 artics by 30 June 2013. (The 13 buses for 2012-13 are listed as costing $9,723,000 - $748,000 each).

Where do you get there idea that there will be 13 additional buses in 2012/13? From my reading of the budget there will be 13 delivered in 2012/13, which are the ones that are already on order and in-build, not 13 additional.
Title: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Snorzac on June 06, 2012, 07:08:39 PM
There was 20 funded in last years budget, this 90 buses does not include these.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: The Love Guru on June 06, 2012, 07:15:36 PM
Quote from: ACTbusspotter on June 06, 2012, 01:45:04 PM
Based on figures in the Budget Papers, looks like they will be varying the contract with Scania to deliver an additional 13 artics by 30 June 2013. (The 13 buses for 2012-13 are listed as costing $9,723,000 - $748,000 each).

I'd agree, as there hasn't been a tender let for anything, the only way to get any buses delivered in that time frame would be to extend the artic order.

It is piss poor that they have cut back the fleet replacement from the 25 units a year they had been aiming for. Based on the figures listed, and without increasing the fleet size, there will PR100.2s running around past their 30th birthday.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Buzz Killington on June 06, 2012, 07:23:22 PM
The Chief Minister has tweeted the following:

@ACTbusspotter ACTION will get 13 new artics in 2012-13 and 77 rigids over 4 years from 2013-14: 19, 19, 19, 20
View conversation

@ACTbusspotter the 90 new buses are in addition to the 20 scania artics under order
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Barry Drive on June 06, 2012, 07:25:32 PM
It has been verified via twitter that (A) 90 buses does not include the 20 artics already on order and (B ) there will be 13 additional artics.
Title: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Snorzac on June 06, 2012, 07:37:12 PM
Quote from: The Love Guru on June 06, 2012, 07:15:36 PM
It is piss poor that they have cut back the fleet replacement from the 25 units a year they had been aiming for. Based on the figures listed, and without increasing the fleet size, there will PR100.2s running around past their 30th birthday.

If they withdraw 1 for 1, there will be 50 PR100.2s remaining in service at the conclusion of the 77 rigid bus order.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: The Love Guru on June 06, 2012, 08:36:33 PM
50 left and at least another year for a new tender then 2-3 years to get rid of those 50 even without fleet size increase. It will be 2020 or 2021 before the last of them are retired. Be prepared for some ongoing reliability issues.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: ajw373 on June 06, 2012, 08:42:14 PM
So where is the funding for the 20 artics hidden away? Again even after reading the tweets above it says to me there will be 13 artics next FY total, not 13 additional.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Barry Drive on June 06, 2012, 08:54:15 PM
Refer here http://actbus.net/?p=1014 for details of the current artic contract.

Perhaps the Budget Media Release could have been worded better, but the messages from the CM confirm that there will be 33 new artics delivered by June next year.
Title: Re: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: The Love Guru on June 06, 2012, 09:00:53 PM
Quote from: ajw373 on June 06, 2012, 08:42:14 PM
So where is the funding for the 20 artics hidden away? Again even after reading the tweets above it says to me there will be 13 artics next FY total, not 13 additional.
Forget the 20 already ordered, they had budget in the 2011-12 year. There is additional funding for another 13, hence we should have no PR180.2s in the fleet this time next year or there abouts.
Title: Re: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: ajw373 on June 06, 2012, 09:59:46 PM
Quote from: The Love Guru on June 06, 2012, 09:00:53 PM
Forget the 20 already ordered, they had budget in the 2011-12 year. There is additional funding for another 13, hence we should have no PR180.2s in the fleet this time next year or there abouts.

Right, think I have found where my confusion on the issue is coming from, though would help if you guys quoted actual budget papers rather than tweets and reading between the lines of press release headlines. Just spent the last hour reading through to find all the figures.

Now just to clarify for the record it seems as if the $9.723m that has been allocated is clearly for additional buses, as covered on page 175 of the budget paper (link below).

http://www.treasury.act.gov.au/budget/budget_2012/files/budgetpaper3/07_4capitalinitiatives.pdf

However the 20 artics that have already been ordered have not been fully paid for, so clearly the money allocated to pay the balance for these is in a different paper. Specifically page 143 under capital works in progress for buses part paid for and capital works on page 145 for buses where part payment hasn't been made. Shown in the document below. Clearly there are other items in the capital works too, including the additional 13 buses.

http://www.treasury.act.gov.au/budget/budget_2012/files/budgetpaper4/01_8action.pdf

So all as clear as mud I guess.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Barry Drive on June 07, 2012, 12:53:07 PM
Quote from: ajw373 on June 06, 2012, 09:59:46 PM
though would help if you guys quoted actual budget papers rather than tweets and reading between the lines of press release headlines.

I did -

Quote from: ACTbusspotter on June 06, 2012, 01:45:04 PM
Based on figures in the Budget Papers, looks like they will be varying the contract with Scania to deliver an additional 13 artics by 30 June 2013. (The 13 buses for 2012-13 are listed as costing $9,723,000 - $748,000 each).

The media release, however, was the only place where the number of buses was shown and the tweets were confirmation of what I had already deduced.

Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: ajw373 on June 07, 2012, 01:38:34 PM
Quote from: ACTbusspotter on June 07, 2012, 12:53:07 PM
I did -

The media release, however, was the only place where the number of buses was shown and the tweets were confirmation of what I had already deduced.

So you did. Though quoted with no context what so ever and included an assumption (which yes was a right assumption). So my point still remains.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Barry Drive on June 07, 2012, 03:15:37 PM
You say "assumption", I say "deduction".

Although, admittedly the part about the Scania contract being varied has not been confirmed, but I can't imagine there'd be any other way to secure 13 additional artics in such a short time frame.

I will be keeping an eye on the procurement.act website  (http://www.procurement.act.gov.au/contracts/contracts_register/contracts/contracts/territory_and_municipal_services_directorate/2010.xxxx.xxx/2010.15525.220) to check for a contract variation. Interested to see how they will be adjusting the delivery schedule. My guess is that they'll keep it as 2 per month until January then 3 or 4 per month until June.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: ajw373 on June 07, 2012, 03:31:17 PM
It cannot have been varied yet for the simple fact that with government procurement you cannot commit money until you have it, and as far as I know no vote has been made on the budget bills yet. So until thats done it is not possible to make the variation.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Bus 400 on June 09, 2012, 10:15:59 PM
Quote from: ajw373 on June 07, 2012, 03:31:17 PM
It cannot have been varied yet for the simple fact that with government procurement you cannot commit money until you have it, and as far as I know no vote has been made on the budget bills yet. So until thats done it is not possible to make the variation.

But aren't there 20 artics budgeted for in next year's financial year? But the tender was opened last financial year.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: ajw373 on June 10, 2012, 09:19:42 AM
Quote from: Bus 400 on June 09, 2012, 10:15:59 PM
But aren't there 20 artics budgeted for in next year's financial year? But the tender was opened last financial year.

When you sign a contract you make a commitment to purchase. To sign you need the money to be available. So last fy a contract was signed to buy 20 with payment being spread over two fy's. So as I said above the budget for the coming fy needed the balance of payments carrried over it is there but hidden away.

However the new 13 will be a Variation but before any variation can be signed the money needs to be allocated but because it's a NEW capital expense this cannot be done until the budget has been passed.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Buzz Killington on June 27, 2012, 01:26:27 PM
Another new pic from ACTION

(https://p.twimg.com/AwXZZgiCQAEyCfg.jpg)
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Barry Drive on June 27, 2012, 01:28:12 PM
The tweet from ACTION now says that it is due to arrive end of July.
Title: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Snorzac on July 13, 2012, 04:06:38 PM
The first one is at Woden, whether or not it's 506 is yet to be determined.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: ajw373 on July 13, 2012, 05:46:25 PM
Quote from: ajw373 on June 02, 2012, 09:42:24 AM
Obviously will need a much better picture (or to see in the flesh) to really make my mind up, but based on the first picture I really don't like the livery, especially the trailer section which is far too green. Not sure how this style of livery could be modified to look better though.

Happy to say, based on the new picture my fears from months ago were unfounded. Doesn't look to bad. Think however we could probably loose the "easy access" and "climate... for comfort" writting. For one by now everyone knows a green bus is both these, and two don't think it looks right on the CB80 which curves where it is written compared to the CB60. Also interesting how far back the aircon pod in the front unit is.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: smitho on July 14, 2012, 12:43:19 AM
Quote from: ajw373 on July 13, 2012, 05:46:25 PM
Happy to say, based on the new picture my fears from months ago were unfounded. Doesn't look to bad. Think however we could probably loose the "easy access" and "climate... for comfort" writting. For one by now everyone knows a green bus is both these, and two don't think it looks right on the CB80 which curves where it is written compared to the CB60. Also interesting how far back the aircon pod in the front unit is.

It's interesting that many 'ordinary punters' assume that ACTION's green colored bus fleet is all-CNG.  Not surprising when you think about it.

I suspect CNG will be 'the long term way of the future' for the Australian bus fleet, including ACTION.

Long term price trends for diesel fuel are not good whereas Australia has plentiful, cheap natural gas.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: volvo on July 16, 2012, 09:58:10 AM
That's a good point, Smitho, but it should  be observed that Diesel buses are possible to sell after they are too old/damaged etc, whereas CNG ones are not, because most people don't have a CNG fiilling station hanging around their yard.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: ajw373 on July 16, 2012, 10:11:47 AM
Also conisdering most (all actually) of our buses come from Europe we need to be looking at European trends to see where the future is. At present it would appear that CNG has peaked and the future is in the hybrid market.

If I were to crystal ball gaze I would say that hybrids will appear in more numbers here soon, especuially with ADL taking over Customs. In Britan ADL is clearly one of their big two with hybrids now appearing in large numbers throughout Britain. In London hybrids are making up between 10-20% of all new deliveries.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Irisbus Rider on July 16, 2012, 10:38:46 PM
Yep, I agree. Similar trends exist in the U.S. regarding hybrids, with most new buses purchased since 2008 at large operators typically being hybrids. We are very behind the times when it comes to hybrids.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: smitho on July 17, 2012, 10:32:51 PM
Yes, agree that hybrids have a promising future. But compared with Europe and elsewhere, Australia is in a pretty unique situation of having abundant, cheap natural gas, and with huge new gas developments in prospect on the north-west shelf.

If diesel gets expensive enough, we could see a resurgence of interest in gas buses, which would in turn expand and improve the 2nd hand market for such buses.

Having said that, the fuel efficiency of newly released diesel buses such as ACTION's steer tags and MAN diesels seems excllent, to some extent neutralising the trend rise in diesel costs.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Buzz Killington on July 25, 2012, 07:00:52 PM
506 left Woden early this morning. Off to Belco to get ready for service I believe.
Title: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Bus 400 on July 26, 2012, 10:10:16 PM
Having had a close up of Bus 506, for those who are curious. Bus 506 has the same side view cameras on both sides of the front section (same as 491-505). But they are blended into the black covering. Also it looks like the low floor section will have perimeter seating such as what the steer tags have. Also she looks a beauty close up & sounds great even at low speeds when she gets going. But just watch out for alarms when on this bus, as when she went for a short drive car alarms started going off.

It was all perfectly legal & I was in the right spot at the right time.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Barry Drive on July 28, 2012, 11:30:55 AM
Quote from: Bus 400 on July 26, 2012, 10:10:16 PM
Also it looks like the low floor section will have perimeter seating such as what the steer tags have.

I can confirm this. There is an extra set of perimeter seats after the wheelchair bays. But unlike the 14.5s, there is only one set each side of two seats each.

It also has back-to-back seats over the front wheel arches rather than a single seat with luggage racks behind. Luggage rack is located directly behind driver.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: smitho on July 28, 2012, 09:33:11 PM
Any idea whether they have a manual retarder stick like the snags?  (They come in very handy).
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Barry Drive on July 29, 2012, 04:57:04 PM
Yes, it does.
Title: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Bus 400 on July 31, 2012, 05:14:52 PM
Bus 506 will be launched tomorrow.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Barry Drive on August 01, 2012, 01:34:13 PM
The message coming from ACTION and the Chief Minister (see the Media Release (http://actbus.net/?p=2028)) is only mentioning the original order of 20 artics - due to be delivered by March 2013.

Perhaps the contract variation for the additional 13 has taken longer than planned so dates are not yet known.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Snorzac on August 08, 2012, 02:47:23 PM
Sighted 507 on the Barton Hwy today about 12pm
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: smitho on August 09, 2012, 12:50:59 AM
Quote from: ACTbusspotter on August 01, 2012, 01:34:13 PM
The message coming from ACTION and the Chief Minister (see the Media Release (http://actbus.net/?p=2028)) is only mentioning the original order of 20 artics - due to be delivered by March 2013.

Perhaps the contract variation for the additional 13 has taken longer than planned so dates are not yet known.

The figure of 33 new artics is referred to in the article about the Scania artics in the latest 'Chronicle'....from memory, they're quoting Mr Roncon.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: ajw373 on August 09, 2012, 07:03:19 AM
Quote from: smitho on August 09, 2012, 12:50:59 AM
The figure of 33 new artics is referred to in the article about the Scania artics in the latest 'Chronicle'....from memory, they're quoting Mr Roncon.

The article actually talks about 20 new artics and 33 old.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: smitho on August 10, 2012, 12:21:34 AM
507 now tucked away at Woden Depot.

At this stage, Tugg Depot not anticipating Scania artic deliveries until December, but with some newer Renaults cascading from Belco prior to then.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: CNG on August 10, 2012, 08:16:12 PM
in relation to the mk 2 artics do they still have a few years service left?
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: smitho on August 10, 2012, 11:38:39 PM
Quote from: CNG on August 10, 2012, 08:16:12 PM
in relation to the mk 2 artics do they still have a few years service left?

Not aware of any official comment on this, but reasonable to expect some artics (mk 1s and 2s) to remain in service for a year or two at least, depending on the rate of delivery of the Scania artics and future requirements for artics as set by the current network, and more importantly, Network 13.

Mark 1s would not automatically be retired before Mark 2s.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Snorzac on August 11, 2012, 04:50:46 PM
There are 33 artics due for delivery before next June (I think), there is 33 PR180.2s currently in service.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Bidgee on August 11, 2012, 09:50:17 PM
I'm assuming that 506 is on the road now? Will be in Canberra on the 25th of this month and would be great to get a photo of it since I keep missing them when they pass though Wagga!
Title: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Bus 400 on August 11, 2012, 10:27:02 PM
Quote from: Bidgee on August 11, 2012, 09:50:17 PM
I'm assuming that 506 is on the road now? Will be in Canberra on the 25th of this month and would be great to get a photo of it since I keep missing them when they pass though Wagga!

The trainers only started training last week. So it may be a few weeks off yet.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: smitho on August 12, 2012, 01:32:43 AM
Quote from: Mayor McCheese on August 11, 2012, 04:50:46 PM
There are 33 artics due for delivery before next June (I think), there is 33 PR180.2s currently in service.

Whether 33 artics would be sufficient for Network 13 remains to be seen.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Barry Drive on August 12, 2012, 11:06:16 AM
Quote from: smitho on August 10, 2012, 12:21:34 AM
At this stage, Tugg Depot not anticipating Scania artic deliveries until December, but with some newer Renaults cascading from Belco prior to then.
What have you heard? If T not getting any until December, that suggests that B will get the first 11, since there need to be at least 12 in service by end of December to meet DDA.

Quote from: Bidgee on August 11, 2012, 09:50:17 PM
I'm assuming that 506 is on the road now? Will be in Canberra on the 25th of this month and would be great to get a photo of it since I keep missing them when they pass though Wagga!
There is an outside chance that 506 would be in service by then, but can't say for sure. Anyway, there will be about 3 buses coming per month until March. Plenty of opportunity to see one in Wagga Wagga - keep an eye on @ACTIONbuses or @ACTbusspotter or @ACTBus on twitter for reports of when each is due for delivery (assuming ACTION keeps up the reports).
Title: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Bus 400 on August 12, 2012, 01:35:38 PM
On a side thought, in 12 days time the last (regular season) home game for the Raiders is on. Now this is a top 5 articulated bus charter for ACTION. So you may see 10 or so Renault articulated buses. Well the next time the Raiders play a (regular) home game next year. How many Renault articulated artics do you think we will see compared to Scania's? As there should be at least 18-19 Scania articulated buses at ACTION.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Bidgee on August 12, 2012, 01:49:20 PM
Got them on follow but I'm just never in the right spot or find out a day later as I've missed a tweet or post.

Was lucky to have had a trip planned when the Brumbies were playing against NZ I think but was buggered after photographing another event but still got some.
http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:ACTION_-_BUS_719_-_Ansair_bodied_Renault_PR180-2_MkII.jpg
http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:ACTION_-_BUS_702_-_Ansair_bodied_Renault_PR180-2_MkII.jpg
http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:ACTION_-_BUS_716_-_Ansair_bodied_Renault_PR180-2_MkII.jpg
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Buzz Killington on August 12, 2012, 04:03:59 PM
Quote from: Bus 400 on August 12, 2012, 01:35:38 PM
On a side thought, in 12 days time the last (regular season) home game for the Raiders is on. Now this is a top 5 articulated bus charter for ACTION. So you may see 10 or so Renault articulated buses. Well the next time the Raiders play a (regular) home game next year. How many Renault articulated artics do you think we will see compared to Scania's? As there should be at least 18-19 Scania articulated buses at ACTION.

It'd be great to see a lot of (quality) Renault artic photos being posted on the forums as they near the end of their service - would like to bolster the number of their photos in the gallery.
Title: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Bus 400 on August 14, 2012, 06:43:57 PM
Quote from: ACTbusspotter on August 01, 2012, 01:34:13 PM
Perhaps the contract variation for the additional 13 has taken longer than planned so dates are not yet known.

By the looks of things, this financial years budget is yet to pass through the Legislative Assembly.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: smitho on August 15, 2012, 11:52:09 PM
Quote from: Buzz Killington on August 12, 2012, 04:03:59 PM
It'd be great to see a lot of (quality) Renault artic photos being posted on the forums as they near the end of their service - would like to bolster the number of their photos in the gallery.

Suggested photo location for artics against a terrific bush & mountain back-drop....intersection of Drakeford Drive and Tharwa Drive. A few dead running artics turn right off Tharwa Drive here between 1610 and 1620 en route to Civic for peak period Xpresso runs.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Bonnerbus on August 20, 2012, 04:53:44 PM
So any news yet on when Mr Big Bendy is getting on the road for revenue services? Seems to take a while......
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: The Love Guru on August 20, 2012, 09:40:45 PM
Driver training should commence very shortly. Expect to see it on the road in the AM and PM peaks only for a while as it will be used for driver training on the type during the day.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: smitho on August 20, 2012, 11:45:13 PM
Walking through 506 the other day, I noticed that as I approached the back of the bus, the distance between the top of my head and the roof gets pretty cosy; in fact my head was touching the roof at one point.

I'm only 5'10", so taller people will definitely need to take care if walking in the trailer section.

I can't say I've heard of this being an issue with the Adelaide artics and wondered whether there may be something in ACTION's customisation that results in the cosy headroom situation.
Title: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Bus 400 on August 21, 2012, 05:54:40 PM
Bus 507 departed Woden Depot either today or yesterday.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Barry Drive on August 21, 2012, 06:14:02 PM
... or has it just been moved?
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Bus 400 on August 21, 2012, 09:33:40 PM
Quote from: ACTbusspotter on August 21, 2012, 06:14:02 PM
... or has it just been moved?

Didn't notice any green, but a little hard while trying to teach a so & so driver how to form one lane.

EDIT-It has returned.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Buzz Killington on August 22, 2012, 06:19:57 PM
Couldn't see it last night when I went past but it was back this morning.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Barry Drive on August 22, 2012, 08:05:13 PM
Looks like 508 was delivered today - two new artics now at Woden.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Busnerd on August 23, 2012, 09:51:59 AM
Smitho, I've often wondered how Custom ever got away with the Combo Scanias, even the older ones had similar issues, whilst the roof in the older ones wasn't as low, the panel above the rear door is shockingly low and pretty much any person almost hits their head on it, in particular the STA 2111 had yellow and red tape stuck on the rear door panel, which pretty much covers them if anyone hurts themselves, I would assume it is similar regarding the low headroom from the turntable to the rear of the new CB80 Combo's, presumably if they have plenty of caution or mind your head signs etc. then I think it covers them....Personally I've only ever hit my head trying to stand up in a window seat on a VST, luckily it was an early model one so the panels were plastic, i think my head just bowed the plastic in a bit, the new ones are stainless steel i think
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: King of Buses on August 23, 2012, 10:53:35 AM
Big Bendy (506), Flexy Lexy (507). Whats next? Bendy Wendy for 508? ???
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: smitho on August 23, 2012, 01:39:40 PM
Quote from: Busnerd on August 23, 2012, 09:51:59 AM
Smitho, I've often wondered how Custom ever got away with the Combo Scanias, even the older ones had similar issues, whilst the roof in the older ones wasn't as low, the panel above the rear door is shockingly low and pretty much any person almost hits their head on it, in particular the STA 2111 had yellow and red tape stuck on the rear door panel, which pretty much covers them if anyone hurts themselves, I would assume it is similar regarding the low headroom from the turntable to the rear of the new CB80 Combo's, presumably if they have plenty of caution or mind your head signs etc. then I think it covers them....Personally I've only ever hit my head trying to stand up in a window seat on a VST, luckily it was an early model one so the panels were plastic, i think my head just bowed the plastic in a bit, the new ones are stainless steel i think
The area where I hit my head was at the rear vent section of the trailer, but anyone approach 6' in height would hit their head on the ceiling if they didn't bend a bit when moving about the rear section of the trailer....I think it is when the punters get up to leave the bus that they can be caught off guard and about overhead clearances.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Buzz Killington on September 07, 2012, 08:46:17 PM
ACTBusspotter reported on Twitter that another artic has arrived - probably 509.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Barry Drive on September 14, 2012, 02:05:07 PM
510 arrived yesterday or today. It has been named "Walter Curly Griffin".
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: smitho on September 14, 2012, 10:48:31 PM
I saw a Scania artic operating an Xpresso 710 through Civic this morning - too far away to identify bus number.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: smitho on September 19, 2012, 01:04:49 PM
Only 509 and 510 in store at Woden Depot at lunchtime today.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: particleman on September 21, 2012, 07:46:37 AM
I saw 506 this morning doing a southbound 58. About a week after the Katy Gallagher photos, I saw it doing a southbound 51.

Are they using the newbies on early morning (0630-0730) Gungahlin routes for a certain reason, or is it just a coincidence?
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Bonnerbus on September 21, 2012, 09:59:18 AM
A better question is why arent they being used on high demand high frequency routes (like 200 and 300 series)? I caught the evening 57 the other day on 506 and it was half empty. Also the 51 after 5pm is an artic and is also half empty while the 200 is packed to the rafters.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Barry Drive on September 21, 2012, 01:20:23 PM
So why aren't more people taking the 51 instead? But to answer your question: they are being used on existing artic shifts. Changes may occur when the shifts are re organised.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Bonnerbus on September 21, 2012, 02:22:48 PM
Because no one wants to be stuck on a bus that stops at every stop. The 200 has too many stops as it is!

I can understand using them on existing artic routes, however one would have thought that the reason that artics are generally not used on 200 and 300 series routes is due to their lack of low floor accessiblity. With the new ones, this problem no longer exists.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Barry Drive on September 21, 2012, 02:47:24 PM
Quote from: Bonnerbus on September 21, 2012, 02:22:48 PM
Because no one wants to be stuck on a bus that stops at every stop.
But in reality, that doesn't happen. Since the limited stopping pattern only applies along Northbourne Ave (just about), it is the traffic flow which determines how quickly any bus will get to Gungahlin, not how many bus stops it services.

If more people caught the 51/52/59 instead if the 200, the over-crowding problems might not occur.

Quote from: Bonnerbus on September 21, 2012, 02:22:48 PM
.. however one would have thought that the reason that artics are generally not used on 200 and 300 series routes is due to their lack of low floor accessiblity. With the new ones, this problem no longer exists.
Yes, but until the shifts are re-organised, they must continue to be allocated to existing artic shifts.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Barry Drive on September 23, 2012, 09:41:05 AM
"Deed of variation" to the contract with Scania has been posted. Unfortunately, it does not include any detail - such as a revised delivery schedule - other than to add 13 more buses to the contract.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: smitho on September 24, 2012, 01:28:06 AM
Quote from: ACTbusspotter on September 21, 2012, 02:47:24 PM
But in reality, that doesn't happen. Since the limited stopping pattern only applies along Northbourne Ave (just about), it is the traffic flow which determines how quickly any bus will get to Gungahlin, not how many bus stops it services.

If more people caught the 51/52/59 instead if the 200, the over-crowding problems might not occur.
Yes, but until the shifts are re-organised, they must continue to be allocated to existing artic shifts.

Usage of artics on ACTION services is primarily driven by their use as school buses; don't expect this will change with the replacement of Renault artics with Scania artics.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Bidgee on September 28, 2012, 09:48:09 AM
511 should be in Canberra this afternoon, spotted in Wagga just before 9am.
(https://www.actbus.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi638.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fuu105%2FBusabout%2F_MG_3718.jpg&hash=37f55fa3b1eb65547638a7d82f7106334080e9c0)
(https://www.actbus.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi638.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fuu105%2FBusabout%2F_MG_3722.jpg&hash=d67507c525f1f2aaaf314050cf693757ec64dfc9)
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: smitho on September 29, 2012, 12:07:50 AM
511 was purring away within Woden Depot garage late morning ...(yesterday).
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Barry Drive on October 06, 2012, 12:52:37 PM
In case you missed it elsewhere, 512 was delivered to Woden yesterday afternoon (5 Oct).

507 & 508 appear ready to enter service, but they might be waiting for the new School term. 509 & 510 may be ready by the end of the coming week.

Quote from: smitho on September 24, 2012, 01:28:06 AM
Usage of artics on ACTION services is primarily driven by their use as school buses; don't expect this will change with the replacement of Renault artics with Scania artics.
But they can alter which non-school routes get artics. And can also schedule low floor artics to be in service during the middle of the day and into the evening.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: ajw373 on October 06, 2012, 01:01:23 PM
Quote from: ACTbusspotter on October 06, 2012, 12:52:37 PM
But they can alter which non-school routes get artics. And can also schedule low floor artics to be in service during the middle of the day and into the evening.

That would more or less require a rewrite of the schedule, so not something you would expect to see on the fly.

Just noticed in the picture above a speed limit sign on 511. Is that on the others? Don't recall seeing it on 506.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Snorzac on October 06, 2012, 01:20:50 PM
I think 508 onward have that sticker.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Barry Drive on October 06, 2012, 01:23:24 PM
Yes, new shifts will come into effect late Nov/ early Dec or later. By that stage B depot will have around 10 low floor artics.

The speed limit sticker is being removed by ACTION once the bus arrives. Never saw it on 506, but there was a white patch on the back. (507 did have one.) Also saw a sticker on one of the new MANs - 496 maybe.

Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Busnerd on October 08, 2012, 12:00:49 PM
Presumably the sticker is there for the delivery run, so that other motorists can see the max speed is 85
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Barry Drive on October 11, 2012, 11:17:22 AM
507 entered service yesterday (10 Oct). 509 now also appears ready to enter service - this week or next.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: smitho on October 12, 2012, 08:35:21 PM
Some official looking blokes were fiddling around with 511 & 512 at Woden Depot early this afternoon.
Title: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Bus 400 on October 14, 2012, 04:27:30 PM
Bus 506 spent its first night in the artic shed at Belconnen Depot on Friday night.
By next month/early December this shed would be mostly Scania's.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: The Love Guru on October 15, 2012, 09:41:59 AM
Quote from: Bus 400 on October 14, 2012, 04:27:30 PM
Bus 506 spent its first night in the artic shed at Belconnen Depot on Friday night.
By next month/early December this shed would be mostly Scania's.

Not quite right but close. It was in the sheds for 3 days this week (well, when it escaped the workshops), 507 was also in the sheds.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: belcodriver on October 15, 2012, 03:18:33 PM
Saw 510 doing a 16 this morning.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: 400:D on October 15, 2012, 04:24:10 PM
Saw a Scania on a 885.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Barry Drive on October 23, 2012, 08:59:04 PM
To catch up: 513 delivered last Friday, has been named Artic Monkey; 509 entered service on Monday; 508 was seen in service this morning, but may not go out again until next week; 511 & 512 have left Woden, presumably at B depot for preparation.
Title: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Bus 400 on November 03, 2012, 01:15:09 PM
Bus 512 returned to Woden Depot after it & 513 went MIA for the last few weeks. Bus 513 is still MIA.

Bus 514 was delivered to Woden yesterday.

Also, it has been mentioned on Twitter the last few weeks that Buses 508 & 509 have entered service.
Title: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Bus 400 on November 06, 2012, 06:10:59 PM
Bus 513 has returned from its driveabout.
Title: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Bus 400 on November 15, 2012, 06:49:24 PM
On today's roll call at Woden Depot, it looks like Bus 513 was absent.
Title: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Bus 400 on November 24, 2012, 01:06:33 PM
Bus 511 was the first one to enter weekend service on 900's today. However the driver wasn't permitted to do the Erindale diversion (length excuse). So it is doing Tuggeranong runs via the weekday version. By a sneak of the shift it is out all day today on only 900's.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: ajw373 on November 24, 2012, 01:17:07 PM
Just the one or are there many out due to foreshore?
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Barry Drive on November 24, 2012, 01:41:37 PM
Quote from: Bus 400 on November 24, 2012, 01:06:33 PM
Bus 511 was the first one to enter weekend service on 900's today. However the driver wasn't permitted to do the Erindale diversion (length excuse). So it is doing Tuggeranong runs via the weekday version. By a sneak of the shift it is out all day today on only 900's.
No. The reason why it would not be servicing Erindale is nothing to do with length. Artics can go anywhere a rigid bus can.

The reason they are not going through Erindale is because (a) it takes too long (b) it's not necessary. The purpose of running Intertown augments (or whatever you want to call them) is to get passengers from the Town Centres into the City. But they should be calling them Route 300 if they don't want to go through Erindale.
Title: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Bus 400 on November 24, 2012, 02:54:33 PM
The length was what the driver said.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Barry Drive on November 24, 2012, 03:21:22 PM
Quote from: Bus 400 on November 24, 2012, 02:54:33 PM
The length was what the driver said.
Length of the bus or length (time) of the route?

Route 900/Erindale has been serviced by artics often. The Scania artics can easily go anywhere a normal 12.5m bus can. Someone has no clue.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Buzz Killington on November 24, 2012, 11:17:25 PM
Indeed. Artics regularly operate Routes 63, 64 and 65 which involve right hand turns through those shitty little roundabouts on Langdon Avenue. Going straight ahead through all three of them on Route 900 would be no issue.

And yes, route number 300 should have been used. I presume passengers were informed that the bus wasn't servicing Erindale but what if they weren't?
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Ed on November 24, 2012, 11:25:52 PM
Unlike the special length restrictions on the STAGs, artics can go anywhere a standard rigid bus can.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: ajw373 on November 25, 2012, 07:04:52 AM
Quote from: Buzz Killington on November 24, 2012, 11:17:25 PM
And yes, route number 300 should have been used. I presume passengers were informed that the bus wasn't servicing Erindale but what if they weren't?

More to the point what about those who may have been waiting for a 900 at Erindale?
Title: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Bus 400 on November 25, 2012, 08:25:24 AM
Another 900 left 5 mins before to service Erindale. Buses 511 & 984 (there may of been others) were put on as additional 900's due to crowds of youngens heading into the City for Foreshore.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Buzz Killington on November 25, 2012, 09:04:46 AM
That makes more sense. If they weren't timetabled services and were just there to satisfy demand then there's no real issue
Title: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Bus 400 on December 10, 2012, 08:19:22 PM
Bus 517 arrived on Friday. With Bus 709 sitting at the back of Belconnen Depot on Friday, it is suspected that Bus 512 may of entered service on Friday. But it must definitely was in service this morning (& this evening).
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: The Love Guru on December 13, 2012, 11:18:14 PM
709 to Woden, 516 to Belconnen, which should be the last artic for Belco. Most likely that B will do the fit out of the new artics for T and then send them down once completed, similar to how the MANs were done.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: The Love Guru on December 14, 2012, 01:22:33 PM
Appears the fit out of the T artics has already begun with 517 sighted at the B workshops. Expect a lot of driver training to be done in the new year prior to the school term commencing at T.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Buzz Killington on December 14, 2012, 06:28:04 PM
So what's the story with the last few Mk2 Renault Artics at Belconnen? Are they staying there or heading to Tuggeranong?

There was a Scania artic at Woden Depot this evening - If 516 and 517 are at Belconnen, does that mean 518 has arrived?
Title: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Bus 400 on December 15, 2012, 10:10:28 AM
Bus 518 is at Woden Depot.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Barry Drive on December 18, 2012, 08:50:33 PM
Quote from: Buzz Killington on December 14, 2012, 06:28:04 PM
So what's the story with the last few Mk2 Renault Artics at Belconnen? Are they staying there or heading to Tuggeranong?
Still waiting on more new artics to enter service. 514 should be ready to go, 515 & 516 could be ready by the end of the week. Maybe they are waiting to put all 3 in service at once.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: ajw373 on December 19, 2012, 07:31:11 AM
Are the new artics allocated to any particular shift or driver? The reason I ask is every morning around 745ish I see the bus that forms a 703 into Barton and every day it is a different bus. Could have sworn that yesterday it was 517.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Busnerd on December 19, 2012, 11:51:52 PM
has someone got some trip times for any of the ones running around in the afternoons? I might try and get a few photos and catch one tomorrow
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: ajw373 on December 20, 2012, 06:33:52 AM
The 703 ex Barton at 4:40 is usually one, except the day I caught it of course!
Title: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Bus 400 on December 20, 2012, 06:53:08 AM
Hang around Platform 8 at City Bus Station from 16:40 to 17:45 & you'll find one. Also a 7 that goes through the City to Belconnen at 17:55ish.
Title: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Bus 400 on December 27, 2012, 11:04:01 PM
Bus 514 was spotted for the first time in route service today.
Title: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Bus 400 on January 02, 2013, 07:26:38 PM
Bus 517 is now at Tuggeranong Depot, now all bets are on* to see if it can enter service before Belconnen's Buses 515/516.

*Just remember before betting, that Tuggeranong drivers need to be acquainted with the Scania artics new features.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: smitho on January 03, 2013, 09:34:12 PM
517 and 511 have been operating out of Tugg Depot for driver training since yesterday.

They are only on loan froim Belco Depot although by start of school term in early Feb, Tugg should have two Scania artics of its own.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: smitho on January 12, 2013, 10:45:29 AM
The indications are that 517 WILL remain at Tuggeranong Depot beyond the current driver training program - first of 21 Scartics (Scania artics) to be based at Tuggeranong.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Barry Drive on January 12, 2013, 12:27:23 PM
Quote from: smitho on January 12, 2013, 10:45:29 AM
The indications are that 517 WILL remain at Tuggeranong Depot beyond the current driver training program - first of 21 Scartics (Scania artics) to be based at Tuggeranong.
517 has actually gone back to Belconnen! But by the looks of things, just for a final fitout (ticket machine etc.). Could be ready to enter service in one or two weeks, if they choose.

Tuggeranong will be getting 22 Scania artics: 517 - 538. (No, I refuse to call them SCArtics.)
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: smitho on January 12, 2013, 08:07:30 PM
Quote from: ACTbusspotter on January 12, 2013, 12:27:23 PM
Tuggeranong will be getting 22 Scania artics: 517 - 538. (No, I refuse to call them SCArtics.)

yep, a horrible abbreviation...
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: smitho on January 14, 2013, 07:41:29 PM
518 was at work at Tuggy today; I gather it was taking 517's role as trainer bus.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Bus 400 on January 14, 2013, 09:46:47 PM
Bus 519 has arrived, since it wasn't spotted at Woden on the weekend & has no appeared at Tuggeranong. I suspect it was hiding somewhere with 518 in the workshop.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: smitho on January 15, 2013, 09:06:06 PM
517 and 518 were lined up together on Tuggy bricks this arvo (still both minus two ways and Wayfarer kit)....
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Bidgee on January 19, 2013, 07:02:41 PM
Got a photo of 515 yesterday on its second day of service (IIRC), didn't realise I over exposed the front.  :-\
(https://www.actbus.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi638.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fuu105%2FBusabout%2F_MG_2246.jpg&hash=34dbbb0004f8d44e8fe506ebce87940778ba1c1c)
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: smitho on January 23, 2013, 10:09:46 PM
517's engine bay has been fitted with a fire suppression kit and all subsequent artic deliveries will have them fitted by Custom Coaches in Adelaide.

They will also be retrofitted to the Belco Scania artics.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: ajw373 on January 24, 2013, 07:13:04 AM
Is this a 'last minute' change by Action or by Scania? Has there been any history of fires with these buses elsewhere to need to put it in?
Title: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Bus 400 on January 24, 2013, 05:57:37 PM
Bus 517 entered service this afternoon.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: smitho on January 25, 2013, 12:01:25 PM
Quote from: ajw373 on January 24, 2013, 07:13:04 AM
Is this a 'last minute' change by Action or by Scania? Has there been any history of fires with these buses elsewhere to need to put it in?

Sorry, don't know any of the background to this.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: smitho on January 25, 2013, 02:22:14 PM
Noticed 520 this morning on the Coulter Drive fence of Belconnen Depot.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: ajw373 on January 25, 2013, 03:23:41 PM
Saw that one in Civic at around 8:10am. The desto was on, but was all over the shop.
Title: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Bus 400 on January 25, 2013, 05:59:19 PM
Bus 519 was were Bus 520 is now. So maybe Bus 519 is back at Tuggeranong.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Buzz Killington on January 25, 2013, 06:00:14 PM
Sir Pompously reports that 521 arrived at Tuggeranong today.
Title: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Bus 400 on January 30, 2013, 08:35:32 PM
It looks like Bus 519 entered service, spotted dead running up Drakeford Drive.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: King of Buses on February 10, 2013, 11:36:26 AM
517 is apparently called 'The Bennie' rather than 516. Well, thats what its name tag said on the inside of the bus...
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Buzz Killington on February 16, 2013, 03:12:34 PM
521 is parked in the sheds at Tuggeranong - either entered service yesterday or will do on Monday.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: smitho on February 17, 2013, 06:15:48 PM
Thought that 521 had been in service late last week...
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Buzz Killington on February 17, 2013, 07:31:11 PM
It's possible. I haven't seen it out on the road myself.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: lukeo25 on February 17, 2013, 08:34:43 PM
521 passed me on Friday afternoon on Eggleston cresent operataing a school bus
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: smitho on February 22, 2013, 11:49:32 PM
522 was @ Tuggeranong Workshops this am....
Title: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Bus 400 on February 24, 2013, 01:47:28 AM
So far I've only been on 2 of Tuggeranong's new (allocated) artics, but it looks like Tuggeranong has lucked out as Bus 518 & 520 don't have screens installed & not even an access panel like some of the MAN's did have.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: smitho on February 25, 2013, 01:00:59 AM
Worked 519 on free EPIC-Civic Show Shuttles last night (Saturday 23rd Feb).
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Bidgee on February 25, 2013, 06:00:29 PM
BUS 521 was just spotted at City Bus Station doing route 5.
Title: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Bus 400 on March 05, 2013, 11:21:23 PM
I found this little piece on the ACTION FAQ page:

Quote
When is the next articulated bus arriving?
As part of our fleet replacement program, 20 new articulated buses are being added to the ACTION fleet, replacing older models. This is, on average, two per month until March 2013. The schedule of the next 13 buses will be announced once an update from the manufacturer is provided.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Barry Drive on April 12, 2013, 11:54:22 AM
Something to look out for: the most recent artics have gone back to using WIRED bus stop buttons.

Update: not wired buttons - still wireless, but use RF rather than sound to activate the signal.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: smitho on April 20, 2013, 06:11:21 PM
Noticed 525 stabled in the southern garage at Woden Transport Depot today.
Title: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Bus 400 on May 03, 2013, 08:27:55 PM
Bus 524 has entered service.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Buzz Killington on May 03, 2013, 09:58:23 PM
Quote from: ACTbusspotter on April 12, 2013, 11:54:22 AM
Something to look out for: the most recent artics have gone back to using WIRED bus stop buttons.

Wireless causing issues then?
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Snorzac on May 03, 2013, 11:44:57 PM
If you sneeze, drop your keys, or a coin in the wireless ones, they go off....useless!
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Barry Drive on May 04, 2013, 09:45:23 AM
... But if you press the button, it may not work.

I had one go off when no one else was on - driver's radio set it off?
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: 400:D on May 04, 2013, 02:41:03 PM
On the subject of the wireless buttons, I must say while using the new Arctic's I spotted someone nearly miss their stop due to lack of working buttons around them.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: smitho on May 04, 2013, 10:36:08 PM
522 has had a long holiday on the Tuggy bricks in recent times - braking issues.
Title: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Bus 400 on May 05, 2013, 05:28:41 PM
Quote from: smitho on May 04, 2013, 10:36:08 PM
522 has had a long holiday on the Tuggy bricks in recent times - braking issues.

But has no returned to service.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Buzz Killington on May 05, 2013, 05:42:16 PM
I caught 522 last week
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Bus 400 on May 05, 2013, 08:10:15 PM
Quote from: ACTbusspotter on April 12, 2013, 11:54:22 AM
Something to look out for: the most recent artics have gone back to using WIRED bus stop buttons.

With the receiver is also still installed.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: smitho on May 05, 2013, 09:59:54 PM
Quote from: Buzz Killington on May 05, 2013, 05:42:16 PM
I caught 522 last week

It must have been released by workshop staff "on concession".
Title: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Bus 400 on May 08, 2013, 06:20:38 PM
Bus 525 was spotted dead running out of Tuggeranong Depot this afternoon.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: King of Buses on May 16, 2013, 01:08:22 PM
525 has been operating the 661 School Bus a couple of times this week.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Barry Drive on May 16, 2013, 01:42:51 PM
Quote from: King of Buses on May 16, 2013, 01:08:22 PM
525 has been operating the 661 School Bus a couple of times this week.
And later does the 729 departing City West at 1715 (in case anyone wants to find it).
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: smitho on June 21, 2013, 10:49:44 PM
528 and (presumably) 527 seen @ Woden Depot this morning.
Title: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Bus 400 on June 21, 2013, 10:52:28 PM
Bus 529 did arrive yesterday.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: smitho on June 26, 2013, 12:24:26 AM
527 on Tuggeranong Depot Bricks this morning (Tues 25th June)....
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: smitho on June 29, 2013, 10:29:07 AM
526 was back on the bricks at Tuggeranong yesterday afternoon, but appeared to be available for service, if required, "on concession".
Title: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Bus 400 on June 29, 2013, 12:06:31 PM
Bus 530 arrived yesterday.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: smitho on July 02, 2013, 11:42:27 PM
526 continues to be a frequent resident on the Tuggeranong bricks while receiving attention from Scania bus doctors....
Title: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Bus 400 on July 06, 2013, 12:57:57 AM
Bus 531, arrived sometime in the last week (before/on Thursday afternoon).
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: smitho on July 06, 2013, 01:10:22 AM
Quote from: smitho on July 02, 2013, 11:42:27 PM
526 continues to be a frequent resident on the Tuggeranong bricks while receiving attention from Scania bus doctors....

Observed one of the news Scania artics processing south in darkness this evening on Atthllon Drive, Wanniassa, disabled and wedged between an ACTION truck and ACTION field vehicle, the latter two vehicles with all lights blazing and flashing lights flashing....quite an impressive sight....can't confirm whether it was the troublesome 526 .....
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Barry Drive on July 06, 2013, 01:37:28 AM
It wasn't 526, 526 was actually in service and didn't break down.

523 lost power at Woden having completed half of a 770.
Title: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Bus 400 on July 06, 2013, 04:09:08 PM
Bus 526 was allowed out today on AFL charters. I know Bus 526 made it as far as Manuka Oval. Another member may be able to shed some light on its return trip.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: smitho on July 07, 2013, 12:00:32 AM
Understand that 526 made it back to Tuggeranong Depot in fine fashion and without incident, dropping a good load of footy punters (ex GWS/Bulldogs game at Manuka) off @ Woden Interchange at around 1700....
Title: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Bus 400 on July 10, 2013, 05:24:30 PM
Bus 528 has been spotted in service this afternoon.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: smitho on July 10, 2013, 11:26:28 PM
526, 527 and 528 were garaged with other older Scania and Renault artics at T Depot on 10 July 13; however 526 has restricted availability (under Workshops direction) at present.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: ajw373 on July 12, 2013, 01:22:14 PM
Quote from: smitho on July 10, 2013, 11:26:28 PM
526, 527 and 528 were garaged with other older Scania and Renault artics at T Depot on 10 July 13; however 526 has restricted availability (under Workshops direction) at present.

I saw both 527 and 528 out and about yesterday (11/7) evening around 5, maybe 5:30pm. 527 was pulling into the depot bus stop in Belconnen operating a 710 and 528 was right behind heading out on a 43 to Dunlop and back. I also spotted the same bus later near Charnwood shops and then Archdall Sreet in Dunlop.

So are these both Tuggeranong buses or have they been allocated, maybe even temporarily to Belconnen. I thought it odd to see both doing peak hour runs to/in Belconnen if they are Tuggeranong buses.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Barry Drive on July 12, 2013, 02:28:21 PM
Nope. Both are Tuggeranong buses/shifts. (I also saw both of these - it was about 1645 at Belconnen.)
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: ajw373 on July 12, 2013, 06:02:35 PM
I can half understand the 710, but geez, what kind of scheduling system has a high capacity Tuggeranong based bus doing a full loop 43 in Belconnen at the time one would think the capacity is needed for outbound routes towards Tuggeranong as opposed to outbound and inbound 43 in Belco.
Title: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Bus 400 on July 12, 2013, 09:34:01 PM
So that bus only does 43's does it?

Some of these odd sightings could be bus drivers getting practice on a new toy while said toy isn't required to school runs. The same can be said for Renaukt attics, taking the old girls out one last time.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: ajw373 on July 13, 2013, 01:10:52 PM
Clearly not, just seems odd having a high capacity articulated bus doing a run like that at the very time when you would think an articulated bus would be on a run run that need high capacity buses and a 43 at 4:45 is not a run that needs such as bus. Would be interesting to see where it came from before doing the 43 and where it went to next and how much dead running it needed to do. Maybe Mr Coe is onto something with his dead running campaign.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: The Love Guru on July 13, 2013, 05:51:04 PM
It is not unusual to have artics on non-artic shifts. The school holiday rosters are from a time before the low floor artics were in service and now when low floor rigids get short in supply they may supplement it with an artic. Workshops also like to have the newer artics out on the road as much as possible in the holidays to get any teething issues sorted out before school goes back when demand for the them is extremely high.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: smitho on July 13, 2013, 09:19:09 PM
There haven't been sufficient Tuggeranong Scania artics available in the afternoons of the school holidays for artic shifts to be covered without resorting to Renault artics.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Buzz Killington on July 14, 2013, 07:38:20 PM
That explains why a few runs that have artics during school holidays have had standards instead..
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Buzz Killington on July 20, 2013, 11:08:31 AM
522 was involved in an accident on the Parkway yesterday morning whilst operating a 785. Couldn't see much damage to the bus but I was heading in the opposite direction.
Title: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Bus 400 on July 31, 2013, 09:19:33 PM
Buses 530 & 531 have been spotted in service this week.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: smitho on August 02, 2013, 11:32:27 PM
Quote from: Bus 400 on July 31, 2013, 09:19:33 PM
Buses 530 & 531 have been spotted in service this week.
Yes, in use on Career Expo charters on Wednesday.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: The Love Guru on August 03, 2013, 07:56:03 AM
531 was sighed on Intertown duties on Monday morning Smitho
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: King of Buses on August 06, 2013, 04:27:49 PM
I got 531 multiple times last week.
Title: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Bus 400 on August 16, 2013, 04:55:03 PM
Bus 533 arrived yesterday.
Bus 534 arrived today.
Title: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Bus 400 on August 24, 2013, 12:35:42 PM
Bus 535 arrived at Woden Depot.
Title: Re: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Barry Drive on September 27, 2013, 10:06:59 AM
535 is the latest is service.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: belcodriver on September 28, 2013, 02:27:05 PM
Drove on of them in the wet for the first time not so long ago and they are not very grippy. Turning left onto Nettlefold from Josephson at what I thought was a moderate speed the trailer went sideways. Am I correct in thinking that the old artics were centre-axle drive and the new ones rear-axle drive with hydraulic pistons connecting the front and rear sections to stop constant jackknifing? Is the reason for the slidiness that these pistons don't work so well?
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: The Love Guru on September 28, 2013, 03:06:08 PM
Renaults are driven by rear and middle axle.
Scanias just by the rear. The hydraulic system works fine. It's the peakyness of the engine that causes the issues as the Max torque surges and when it hits the pushing motion of the rear wheels overcomes the grip of the tyres of the Centre axle. They have stability control so once it slides it will cut power to the engine. It'll cause accidents at roundabouts if not carefully managed.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: belcodriver on September 28, 2013, 07:25:07 PM
Quote from: The Love Guru on September 28, 2013, 03:06:08 PM
Renaults are driven by rear and middle axle.
Scanias just by the rear. The hydraulic system works fine. It's the peakyness of the engine that causes the issues as the Max torque surges and when it hits the pushing motion of the rear wheels overcomes the grip of the tyres of the Centre axle. They have stability control so once it slides it will cut power to the engine. It'll cause accidents at roundabouts if not carefully managed.

Never knew the Renaults were 6x4. Thanks for the answer.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: ajw373 on September 29, 2013, 09:09:21 AM
Quote from: belcodriver on September 28, 2013, 07:25:07 PM
Never knew the Renaults were 6x4. Thanks for the answer.

Nor did I. I knew they were centre drive, which is unusual for a rear engine bus, but this is the first time I have heard that the rears are also powered. Are you 100% sure about that Love Guru?
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: The Love Guru on September 29, 2013, 10:27:43 AM
I am 100% certain of it. It's part of reason for their withdrawal. The universal joints required under the turntable a very highly stressed and high maintenance components.
The Mercs before them were just pushers, MANs were a tractor+trailer setup. Only thing we haven't had here is the MAN with the rear engine and middle axle powered.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Barry Drive on October 26, 2013, 04:21:21 PM
537 arrived last week and 538 on Thursday. So that's it: all 33 now delivered.

Next question is whether they will withdraw all of the Renaults or will a few remain in service?
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: King of Buses on November 11, 2013, 05:44:21 PM
538 is now in service. Was on SR 526 this afternoon.
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: King of Buses on November 14, 2013, 06:50:38 PM
Another Name Saga sorry...

On board BUS.537 and on the rear, it has stickers stating that it is called 'Big Tex Howdy Folks'. Rather than the 'Flo Rider' suggested by the twitter account.

Similar to 517 stating that it is 'The Bennie' rather than 516 and the 'Gordon the Accordion' twitter name.

Any Ideas?  ???
Title: Re: New Artics for ACTION
Post by: Busnerd on May 28, 2014, 12:16:36 PM
Perhaps the old mechanic is up to his old naming tricks again