Blackpool Transport goes digital with Freeway Fleet Systems
Blackpool Transport has switched to a new paperless system for engineers' checks from Freeway Fleet Systems.
The operator, which has a fleet of 103 buses and 18 trams, will equip engineers with tablets to replace hand-written job cards and inspection sheets.
Using the software, management will be able to see the status of the fleet via a connected device.
“We generate a lot of paper and, being hand-written, records are time-consuming and difficult to analyse,” says James Clough, Commercial and Finance Director, Blackpool Transport. “We knew we needed to improve the quality of our records and, with digitisation, it is estimated Freeway will eventually replace 11,000 pieces of paper and 62 hours each month of laborious data entry. More importantly, everything will be live and visible, which will allow us to manage things much better.”
Blackpool Transport is also moving to digital for its daily walk-round checks using the Freeway system via Ticketer machines.
Freeway will also be used to improve the automation of stores, purchasing and stock checks.
“We’ve long had problems with parts not being available when we need them," says Mr Clough. "This has meant that vehicles have been off road longer than necessary. Freeway will revolutionise the management of stores and purchasing and, through better information and processes, we expect to reduce vehicle downtime and improve the management of warranty claims.”
The system will also give management more insight into operating costs of individual vehicles.
Plans to join the DVSA's Earned Recognition scheme were a key factor in the decision to move to digital, says Blackpool Transport.
Scania UK and RNLI agree three-year strategic partnership
Scania UK and the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) have agreed a three-year partnership that will involve the commercial vehicle supplier working with the charity on fundraising activities and continuing its support in other areas.
The agreement will see Scania UK and RNLI become strategic partners in a move that Scania UK Managing Director Chris Newitt says is “a privilege” for the business.
Announcement of the collaboration came on 4 March, the day that RNLI commemorated its 200th anniversary and also on which Scania UK acknowledged its 60th birthday.
In addition to fundraising work by Scania UK, the business will continue to supply engines for Shannon-class lifeboats. They form part of RNLI’s 449-strong fleet that operates from 238 lifeboat stations. Scania engines also power the charity’s Shannon Launch and Recovery System vehicles.
Continues Mr Newitt: “To celebrate your bicentenary is some achievement, and at Scania, we can play our part in helping RNLI to save lives for another 200 years through fundraising and continued support.
“Our shared values and ability to bring people together is what makes this such a great partnership.”
RNLI Director for Engineering and Supply Jamie Chestnutt adds: “Scania and RNLI’s longstanding supplier relationship is a testament to the partnership we have built today.
“This multi-year partnership sees Scania not only continue to provide the Shannon-class lifeboats with the engines we require to operate around the coasts of the UK and the Republic of Ireland, but also raises funds to support the organisation’s vital work as we look to build our lifesaving capacity for another 200 years.
“We are delighted to extend the scope of our relationship and we look forward to furthering operational efficiencies and understanding sustainable powertrain development while championing the work we do both on and off the water, and our commitment to saving lives at sea.”
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Freeway joins 12th IRTE Bus and Coach Skills Challenge as a technology partner
As a company committed to excellence, innovation, and advancing the standards in Fleet maintenance, Freeway will play a key role at the much-anticipated 2024 IRTE Bus and Coach Skills Challenge. As a returning sponsor, Freeway will be introducing a digital inspection module, which strongly aligns with the IRTE Skills Challenge core values of:
- Upskilling competitors: Freeway will provide online training in advance and hands-on training with their digital inspection module to help participants learn how to carry out an inspection fully digitally
- Sustainability and Safety: As the transition to digital inspections reduces paper waste, it enhances accuracies and ensures data and communication integrity. This hands-on experience can boost their skills and prepare them for the evolving demands of the engineering industry.
Freeway's continued dedication exemplifies their commitment to driving innovation in the transportation industry. This embodies the goal of the Skills Challenge which is to recognise and celebrate the exceptional skills of bus and coach sector professionals.
The IRTE Bus and Coach Skills Challenge, slated to take place between the 3 -7 June at the S&B Automotive Academy in Bristol, is a national event that showcases the best talents in the industry, bringing together professionals from across the UK to demonstrate their prowess in various technical and operational aspects. Last year saw entries from some of the leading operators such as Arriva, First Bus and Go Ahead alongside regional companies Lothian and Trentbarton.
Emma Thompson, Head of Business Operations, Society of Operations Engineers, says: "We are thrilled to welcome Freeway as a sponsor for the 2024 IRTE Bus and Coach Skills Challenge. Its commitment to innovation and excellence aligns perfectly with the values of our event, and we are proud to have it on board.
"This partnership not only enhances the overall experience for our participants but also reflects the shared dedication to advancing the standards of professionalism and skill development within our industry."
This sponsorship underscores SOE’s commitment to fostering a culture of continuous learning, safety, and performance within the bus and coach industry.
Adds Patrick Tandy, Managing Director, Freeway: "We are thrilled to return to the IRTE Bus and Coach Skills Challenge as a premium sponsor. This event is a testament to the exceptional skills and dedication of professionals in the coach and bus industry, and we are honoured to be a part of it.
"At Freeway, we share a passion for advancing the standards of excellence in transportation, and this sponsorship allows us to support and engage with the talented individuals who drive innovation in our field."