Warrington's Own Buses adopts Freeway digital fleet management
Warrington's Own Buses adopts Freeway digital fleet management
Warrington’s Own Buses has overhauled its fleet management approach via a platform from Freeway Fleet Systems that accompanies transition of the operator’s vehicles to battery-electric power.
Adoption of Freeway has seen a largely manual, paper-based system in the engineering department succeeded by the cloud-based platform, which was introduced specifically for the battery-electric fleet and the new depot that houses them.
Freeway is playing what the supplier describes as “a key role” in commissioning the 105 Volvo BZL buses. All parts for them have been integrated into the platform.
By the time the final diesel bus is retired, stores and purchasing operations will benefit from automated processes including barcoded bins, auto-replenishment, and real-time tracking of parts performance and costs.
Technicians have been issued with rugged tablet that run a mobile web app, eliminating the need for paperwork.
Speaking about the change, Warrington’s Own Buses Engineering Director Karl Hutchison says: “We are always looking to improve our systems, and we aligned that with the introduction of the new buses. The support from Freeway has been excellent throughout.
“Freeway drives improved compliance, and the standout benefit is quality control,” he continues. “We can instantly see what has been done, supported by photographic evidence. The system ensures that every job is completed thoroughly, with digital proof to back it up.”
Euro Bus Expo Masterclass Sessions on Demand
Euro Bus Expo Masterclass Sessions on Demand
Missed a session? Euro Bus Expo 2024’s Masterclass sessions are now available on demand, giving industry professionals the chance to revisit expert insights, Innovation Challenge pitches, and key discussions from the show.
Euro Bus Expo 2024 brought together industry leaders, innovators, and experts for three days of insightful discussions on the most pressing topics in the coach and bus sector. Now, those who couldn’t attend - or want to revisit key discussions - can access the Masterclass Theatre programme on demand via the event website.
Covering everything from decarbonisation and fleet efficiency to regulatory updates and recruitment challenges, the sessions featured 46 expert speakers sharing their knowledge and practical insights. Visitors to the on-demand platform can explore the latest thinking from leading voices in the industry, whenever and wherever suits them.
A lasting resource for the industry
Designed to provide ongoing value beyond the event, the on-demand content ensures that operators, suppliers, and stakeholders can continue to benefit from the expertise shared at Euro Bus Expo. Whether it's exploring the latest policy shifts, learning from case studies, or gaining a fresh perspective on emerging trends, the programme serves as a valuable resource for businesses looking to stay ahead.
Among the highlights now available to watch is the CPT Operator Forum, which took place on Day 2 of the show, led by Show Partner the Confederation of Passenger Transport (CPT). These sessions tackled key industry challenges, including accessibility, recruitment and coach-friendly tourism, and explored the future of coach.
Also featured in the on-demand Masterclass sessions are the Innovation Challenge pitches, where exhibitors showcased groundbreaking products and services designed to enhance operational efficiency, sustainability, and passenger experience. The competition culminated in the presentation of four awards: Judges’ Choice Gold, Silver, and Bronze, alongside the coveted Operators’ Choice Award, voted for by industry professionals at the show. These sessions offer an exclusive look at the cutting-edge solutions shaping the future of the sector.
Helen Conway, Event Director of Euro Bus Expo says: "As the industry continues to evolve, conversations from the Masterclass Theatre remain as relevant as ever. Making these sessions available on demand means that even more industry professionals can access this valuable content and apply it to their operations.
"We’re pleased to offer this as a lasting resource, ensuring that the knowledge shared at the show continues to benefit the sector long after the event has ended."
Explore the on-demand content here: Masterclass Theatre On Demand
Looking ahead to 2026
With Euro Bus Expo firmly established as the must-attend UK-based trade exhibition, plans are already underway for the next edition, which will take place at the NEC Birmingham from 3-5 November 2026. Exhibitors will have the opportunity to showcase their latest solutions to a highly engaged audience of decision-makers and buyers from across the industry.
Companies looking to exhibit are encouraged to enquire early, with stand availability expected to be in high demand.
For more information on exhibiting at Euro Bus Expo 2026 (3-5 November, NEC Birmingham), visit eurobusxpo.com or contact the Euro Bus Expo team.
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Lothian rolls out Freeway Fleet Systems technology
Lothian rolls out Freeway Fleet Systems technology
Lothian is to use software from Freeway Fleet Systems to boost safety and reliability across its fleet of 730 buses.
The solution from the supplier, which will be rolled out in three phases, provides an all-in-one solution to manage workshops, defects, stores, purchasing and compliance.
The already-completed first phase has led to the digitisation of stores and purchasing, improving efficiency around 25 years of inventory data.
Automation of tasks has seen the removal of paperwork in many areas of the business, which carries around 110 million passengers per year in Edinburgh and the surrounding area.
“The initial implementation of Freeway in stores has been a real success as we’ve streamlined everything and it’s much easier to manage,” says Colin Barnes, Engineering Director of Lothian Buses. “The whole purchasing process is also much better, especially as Freeway’s handy app means we view everything, from anywhere and anytime on a smartphone.”
Phase two, which is now under way, is streamlining operations in the workshop. Engineers have begun to be equipped with mobile devices which, with Freeway's apps, enable digital versions of job cards, inspection sheets, and other paperwork.
The system will eventually also automate Lothian’s Earned Recognition submissions to the DVSA.
Phase three will involve driver walk-round checks.
“Digitisation is by far the most exciting development,” says Barnes. “For the first time, we are not only getting real-time updates from the workshop but the data is always complete, consistent and accurate.
"Freeway ensures best work practice and that’s important for meeting our objectives of continually improving safety and reliability.
“Freeway gives us full 24/7 control and as, we begin to collect more and more data digitally, we’ll be able to generate increasingly useful reports and take advantage of the AI and the business intelligence tools Freeway are developing.
"We’ll increasingly be able to predict issues and move toward much more preventative maintenance that will help us further improve vehicle reliability.”