TBF debuts online membership application process
TBF has introduced an online membership application process, which the transport sector charity says makes joining “even easier.”
The development means that it takes “just a few minutes” to submit the necessary information, TBF says. Once approved, the new member will be issued with a membership number and invited to set up their own unique password for use on the MyPage membership portal. There, they will be able to access and keep up to date all their personal information and records of benefits awarded.
TBF CEO John Sheehy adds: “The charity is delighted to be able to offer this latest innovation. It really is quick and easy; the online application process is accessed via the website homepage and by clicking on the ‘Join Us’ icon.
“We saw a wave of new members joining online during the first few days of it going live, and those new members are now able to take advantage of the wide range of benefits on offer from TBF – there’s no waiting period.
“We will, of course, continue to accept our standard printed application forms. Our team of eight regional organisers will continue to visit work sites and training schools in order to promote the benefits of being a TBF member and to assist those who find themselves in need of help and support. So, if you work in the public transport industry in Great Britain, come and join us. Membership is just a click away!”
TBF is a membership charity offering help and support to those who find themselves in need, hardship, or distress. Membership costs £1.25 a week, covering the prime member, their live-in partner and dependent children.
Over 250-mile zero-emission coach range needed by majority
54% of coach operators believe that a zero-emission coach would need a range of over 250 miles for them to have confidence to invest in such technology. That is according to a response from the Confederation of Passenger Transport (CPT) to the government’s call for evidence on setting an end date for the sale of new non-zero-emission coaches.
While zero-emission coach technology is already available in the UK, it has not yet achieved a range of 250 miles. CPT says that for coaches to make the transition away from diesel, vehicles must be able to deliver such a figure, or there should be a reliable zero-emission recharging or refuelling network in place.
The average range of services provided by coaches in several sectors is 250 miles, a survey by CPT showed. While home-to-school services are much shorter distance, averaging 50 miles in range requirement, they account for only 28% of operators’ revenue on average.
CPT’s submission shows that in addition to the 54% of operators requiring a minimum range of 250 miles, a further 29% would need between 200-250 miles to be confident of making an investment in zero-emission.
In an echo of thoughts previously articulated by Ian Luckett, who chairs CPT’s Zero Emission Coach Taskforce (ZECT), the Confederation has also highlighted the need for versatility to remain as coaches move away from diesel.
Because of the extent of uncertainty that remains around zero-emission coaches, CPT thus wants to see a phase-out date for the sale of new non-zero-emission examples “that is no sooner than 2040.”
In a further echo of Mr Luckett’s position, the submission highlights that coaches share more with HGVs than buses in their application. But while the date set for the end of the sale of new non-zero-emission HGVs in the same weight bracket to coaches is 2035 - subject to a current consultation on exemptions - CPT believes that coaches should be subject to the end date for heavier HGVs, which is 2040.
Anything earlier would be “incredibly challenging” given the lack of support provided thus far to the coach sector for making the move away from diesel, the Confederation adds.
Mark Oliver named Scania UK coach and bus Sales Director
Scania UK has promoted Mark Oliver to the role of Bus, Coach and Power Solutions Sales Director. He succeeds Martin West, who left the business in March, and brings 27 years’ experience with Scania to the position.
Mr Oliver’s career with Scania UK began in 1995 as an apprentice instructor. He later held titles including Senior Technical Instructor and Technical and Training Manager at the business’s training facility in Loughborough and has been Bus and Coach Fleet Sales General Manager since 2012.
Commenting on his appointment, Mr Oliver says: “After being with Scania UK for 27 years, it is an honour to be appointed Sales Director and to be given the opportunity to lead these two teams through the biggest transformation our industry has ever experienced.
“To be successful in this role requires three main things. Building customer relationships, trust, and nurturing long-lasting partnerships. For me, a customer’s relationship is all about building trust and giving peace of mind and reassurance that they have made the right decision – one that is right for today and also tomorrow.”
Adds Scania UK Executive Sales Director Vincente Connolly: “I am delighted that Mark Oliver will be Scania UK’s new Bus, Coach and Power Solutions Sales Director. He is a hugely experienced leader and brings the best out of the teams that work with him.
“His broad sales and technical experience will stand him in good stead, as will his relationships with customers and our colleagues in Sweden. Altogether, it makes him the perfect fit for the role and I wish him every success.”