Euro Bus Expo Launches a New Networking Platform: ‘Euro Bus Expo Connect’
Euro Bus Expo 2024 today announces the upcoming launch of Euro Bus Expo Connect, a new platform designed to enhance networking and maximise business opportunities for those planning to attend. This innovative tool will be available to registered visitors, allowing them to connect before, during, and after the event, which takes place at the NEC Birmingham from 12-14 November 2024.
Transforming visitor and exhibitor engagement
For the first time, visitors will have access to a platform that simplifies the process of finding and connecting with relevant exhibitors. With over 180 exhibitors, including 21 vehicle dealers, manufacturers, and converters, Euro Bus Expo will showcase products spanning the entire supply chain, from cutting-edge vehicles and technology to essential components and systems. By using Euro Bus Expo Connect, visitors can find what they need with ease and secure meetings before arriving at the event.
Euro Bus Expo Connect allows registered visitors to:
- Search for exhibitors and products tailored to their needs
- Schedule meetings directly with exhibitors either at their stand or in the dedicated Connect Lounge
- Create a personal itinerary with seminars and meetings, supported by helpful SMS and email reminders.
A dedicated support team will be available to assist with meeting planning and making the most of the platform’s features, ensuring that attendees can maximise their networking opportunities and business engagements.
“The platform makes planning your visit seamless,” says Helen Conway, Event Director for Euro Bus Expo. “Visitors can now make sure they connect with the right exhibitors, discover new products, and ensure they make the most of their time at the show. This service transforms the way people experience Euro Bus Expo.”
A game-changer for exhibitors
Exhibitors can also benefit from Euro Bus Expo Connect. They can create a detailed profile, showcase their products and services in an online marketplace, and connect with potential leads before the show begins, gaining a competitive edge.
The platform enables exhibitors to:
- Identify relevant visitors and schedule meetings in advance, guaranteeing that key contacts are not missed
- Prepare for meetings by gathering insights on what attendees are seeking
- Manage meetings efficiently with personal scheduling tools and reminders.
“Euro Bus Expo Connect allows exhibitors to generate leads and schedule meaningful meetings before the show starts,” adds Helen. “This is a game-changer for exhibitor and visitor interactions.”
The Connect Lounge
A new addition for 2024, the Connect Lounge offers a quieter space for focused discussions away from the busy show floor. Meetings can be booked here or at exhibitor stands, providing flexibility for attendees and a quieter, more focused environment for business discussions.
How to access Euro Bus Expo Connect
Registered operators, local authorities, community transport organisations, exhibitors, speakers, and press will receive personalised access links. Visitors who have not yet registered will be granted access upon registration. Those who have not yet registered or booked a stand are encouraged to do so as soon as possible to make the best use of the platform from day one.
Free registration for Euro Bus Expo
Euro Bus Expo is the industry-leading event for the coach and bus industry. With over 180 exhibitors, it offers attendees a comprehensive showcase of the latest products, technologies, and services, as well as expert-led seminars and networking opportunities. The event draws more than 8,000 visitors from across the UK and beyond, making it the must-attend event for anyone in the sector.
Registration is free of charge and available now at eurobusxpo.com.
Alexander Dennis achieves 97% charging efficiency on electrics
Alexander Dennis battery-electric buses have achieved 97% grid-to-wheel charging efficiency under testing performed by Zemo Partnership.
Such a level of efficiency forms part of the manufacturer’s focus on total cost of ownership (TCO) for its battery-electrics, which also leans on those buses' low energy consumption. Alexander Dennis says that its next-generation Enviro400EV double-decker has at least a 14% lower energy cost per kilometre than any other Zemo Partnership certified competitor.
Such charging efficiency has been accomplished via what Alexander Dennis describes as “careful system integration and optimisation." Its engineers worked with colleagues from driveline supplier Voith, battery provider Impact Power Technology, and heating, ventilation and air-conditioning specialist Grayson Thermal Systems in that process.
TCO is further aided by the warrantable battery energy throughput of up to 1.6GWh on the next-generation buses.
Speaking about that line-up of vehicles – which in 2025 will see the Enviro200EV join the existing Enviro100EV and Enviro400EV – Group Engineering Director Chris Gall says: “We have focused on delivering benefits for our customers throughout the development of our next-generation electric buses.
“We are delighted announce a stunning 97% grid-to-wheel efficiency, certified by Zemo Partnership’s zero-emission bus testing. This will minimise energy requirements and slash costs for customers by delivering sustained savings throughout their buses’ long operational lives.
“This is once again testament to the fantastic expertise of our engineering team and the collaborative working culture we have fostered with our key partners Voith, Impact Clean Power Technology, and Grayson Thermal Systems.”
Demystifying Social Value in the Coach and Bus Industry: A Q&A with Rachel Hughes
As the coach and bus industry evolves, topics like sustainability and social value are becoming key considerations for operators aiming to win new government tenders. At this year's Euro Bus Expo, Rachel Hughes, Director of Surbon Consulting, will present her insights in the session “Demystifying Social Value” on Thursday, 14 November, 2.15 - 2.25pm in the Masterclass Theatre.
What is Social Value, and why does it matter?
Social Value is a term that captures the additional economic, social, and environmental benefits that can be achieved through government spending.
For operators, this is becoming increasingly relevant, as UK central government contracts now include social value as a minimum of 10% of the tender weighting, in place since 2020. Devolved and local authorities, such as Transport for Greater Manchester, are also integrating social value into bus tenders.
Rachel Hughes' session will demystify social value by explaining what it is, how it can be measured, and what 'good' looks like in practice. Through case studies, she will provide actionable insights for operators who want to leverage social value in future government tenders and communications.
Ahead of her presentation, we caught up with Rachel to explore her work, her thoughts on social value, and the advice she has for coach and bus operators navigating the changing landscape.
Introducing Rachel Hughes: Expert in Social Value
Rachel founded Surbon Consulting in 2013 and has worked extensively in the UK and Middle East, supporting the public transport industry with business development and sustainability services. She has designed and implemented social value plans for major operators including Stagecoach and Go-Ahead, most recently completing work in Manchester.
With a BA (Hons) in Geography from the University of Oxford and a master’s in Carbon Management from the University of Edinburgh, Rachel is also a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Transport and Logistics.
Can you tell us more about your business and what it does?
Rachel: "Since 2013, I have provided business development and sustainability advice to the transport sector across the UK and the Middle East. My projects range from supporting social value initiatives for large-scale bids, such as the Elizabeth Line and Manchester bus franchising, to business development support for a transport start-up in Dubai."
What are the most rewarding and challenging aspects of your job?
Rachel: "The most rewarding and challenging part is supporting my clients to win new work.
My dad always said, ‘Persistence is omnipotence,’ and that advice has stuck with me throughout my career. It’s something I would pass on to others in the industry - staying persistent is crucial for success, especially in such a competitive environment."
What’s your key takeaway of the year (so far)?
Rachel: "The world feels more volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous. However, there are always opportunities. For example, we’ve seen an increase in government funding for electric buses, e.g. since 2020, UK government have spent £3.5 billion which is a significant step forward."
What can visitors expect to learn from your session?
Rachel: "During my session, I will cover what social value is and how it’s measured. Visitors will discover that they might already be doing a lot of social value work within their operations -whether through apprenticeships or charitable giving. I’ll also show how they can use this knowledge in future government tenders and in broader communications, which is crucial as social value is becoming a requirement in contracts."
What advice would you give coach and bus operators to stay competitive and future-proof their businesses in today’s market?
Rachel: "The industry has undergone a lot of change, as has the wider business and political environment in the past five years. My advice is to embrace change and communicate the need for it clearly to staff, customers and the supply chain. To future-proof their businesses, operators should be prepared to be agile and flexible, taking advantage of changes where possible - whether that's adapting to new regulations like social value or evolving business models such as franchising, involving the staff as agents of change, where possible."
What are the biggest challenges and opportunities facing the coach and bus industry today?
Rachel: "One of the biggest challenges is balancing ambitious decarbonisation targets against available funding. Operators need to be proactive and organised while exploring alternative routes and options to achieve these goals.”
“At the same time, there are significant opportunities in continuing to encourage people to travel by bus and coach through market-led services. The more we can demonstrate the value of public transport over private car usage, the better we can position the industry for future growth."
Discover How Social Value Can Benefit Your Operations at Euro Bus Expo
Rachel’s session on social value will provide practical insights that can directly benefit coach and bus operations, especially as the industry increasingly integrates sustainability into its business models. But that's just one part of what Euro Bus Expo has to offer.
With a diverse range of exhibitors showcasing the latest in vehicle technology, digital solutions, and operational tools, the event is designed to help operators discover new ways to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and stay competitive. Attendees will also have the chance to network with peers, gain insight into current regulatory changes, and explore the future of decarbonisation, accessibility, and innovation in the transport sector.
Says Rachel: "Euro Bus Expo brings together a wide range of insightful exhibitors and speakers in an easily accessible location, making it the perfect event for operators who want to stay ahead of the curve and learn about the latest trends in the industry."
Don’t miss the chance to hear from Rachel and other industry experts at Euro Bus Expo. Register for free today and join us for three days of thought-provoking discussions, cutting-edge products, and valuable networking opportunities.