Does anyone knows if the 100 new coaches that E&S quotes are due includes those already delivered during 2012 to date? Or is this a new order?
http://www.expressandstar.com/news/transport-news/2012/09/29/new-25m-fleet-of-coaches-to-hit-road/
Having closed Crawley depot during March, NX Ops are now opening a new base at Luton Airport to serve new route A1 London Victoria - London Luton Airport) from 1st May. The fleet will comprise of 18 new Levante + 4 existing Levante under 18 months old
I'm thinking some of the new ones at least were those originally destined for DeCourcey to takeover Rotala's NX diagrams on routes 210 & 777, is anyone able to confirm?
http://www.route-one.net/issues/481/index.html#/10/
Quote from: Winston on April 04, 2013, 01:35:25 PM
Having closed Crawley depot during March, NX Ops are now opening a new base at Luton Airport to serve new route A1 London Victoria - London Luton Airport) from 1st May. The fleet will comprise of 18 new Levante + 4 existing Levante under 18 months old
I'm thinking some of the new ones at least were those originally destined for DeCourcey to takeover Rotala's NX diagrams on routes 210 & 777, is anyone able to confirm?
http://www.route-one.net/issues/481/index.html#/10/
Does anyone else think NX coaches launching new route A1 against the current commercial Arriva Greenline branded 757 service could be a reaction to Arriva expanding further in the West Midlands? As I understand it, the award of the concession to operate in to Luton Airport grounds only stops Arriva's Greenline 757 route from serving the airport, the remainder of the route is commercial
I think it could be actually
Quote from: Winston on April 05, 2013, 03:48:46 PM
Does anyone else think NX coaches launching new route A1 against the current commercial Arriva Greenline branded 757 service could be a reaction to Arriva expanding further in the West Midlands? As I understand it, the award of the concession to operate in to Luton Airport grounds only stops Arriva's Greenline 757 route from serving the airport, the remainder of the route is commercial
Another alternative maybe that NX coaches are looking for replacement revenue/profit streams to fill the gap lost by the governments cancellation of the concessionary scheme for over 60's & the disabled.
Either way although a commercial route, from other forums it sounds as though the bulk of the Greenline 757 passenger journeys were between London Luton Airport & Central London, therefore from 1st May a large proportion of Arriva the Shires tri-axle Van Hools could become surplus to requirement
Quote from: Winston on April 05, 2013, 08:49:24 PM
Quote from: Winston on April 05, 2013, 03:48:46 PM
Does anyone else think NX coaches launching new route A1 against the current commercial Arriva Greenline branded 757 service could be a reaction to Arriva expanding further in the West Midlands? As I understand it, the award of the concession to operate in to Luton Airport grounds only stops Arriva's Greenline 757 route from serving the airport, the remainder of the route is commercial
Another alternative maybe that NX coaches are looking for replacement revenue/profit streams to fill the gap lost by the governments cancellation of the concessionary scheme for over 60's & the disabled.
I think that is the more likely explanation Winston, while everything in the garden was rosy with the concessionary scheme NX didn't need this sort of work as under the old scheme, this was not as lucrative. But with traffic to Luton probably increasing, and most of it being non concessionary anyway, NX will probably now be wanting a piece of this sort of work wheras previously they didn't. They can probably run this sort of operation a lot more efficiently than Arriva as it happens, as much of Arriva's express work is bolted on to bus operations and not bespoke.
What routes do NX actually operate directly, rather than contract out?
From Birmingham there are only 4 round trips. These are:
* 0630 420 ex Victoria (arrives about 0935) & 1100 410 return
* 0550 210 ex Heathrow T4 (arrives about 0855) & 1000 210 return
* 1335 210 ex Heathrow T4 (arrives about 1645) & 1830 210 return
* 1700 410 ex Victoria (arrives about 1950) & 2100 420 return
They also operate certain journeys on the following routes 550, 440, 747, 787 & 035 and possibly also the 737. Obviously there will soon be the A1 & I believe the A9 service is still operated by owned ops.
Quote from: nx4737 on April 06, 2013, 11:47:51 PM
What routes do NX actually operate directly, rather than contract out?
The main ones that are operated entirely by NX Ops are the 701, 727, 747, 787, A6 & A9 + various other individual diagrams on the 035, 210, 230, 410, 420, 540 & 550. The Luton A1 will also be added to the list from 1st May. Also their is the network of Hotel Hoppa routes centred around Heathrow
Ah, cheers for the information!
NX owned The Kings Ferry also operate some diagrams on the 007 London to Dover I believe
Quote from: trainbasher on April 07, 2013, 07:28:02 AM
NX owned The Kings Ferry also operate some diagrams on the 007 London to Dover I believe
They do, but The Kings Ferry is a completely separate business to NX Operations @ Sipson Road, Start Hill & soon the new Luton base. Kings Ferry have one daily return on the 007 London - Dover but operate it with KF liveried coaches as they don't have any painted in NX colours
national express and Ryanair are joining up to offer joint tickets.....how interesting!!
http://www.nationalexpressgroup.com/media/allnews.aspx?newsyear=2013&newsitem=834
Now Ryanair can truly keep up the joke about 'flying you somewhere' only to find yourself miles from where you wanted to be, but its okay its just a 'short' coach trip away! ;D
RYANAIR: Dublin to Glasgow (includes 6 hour coach trip from Birmingham) lol
sounds like one of the sketches in the BBC's come fly with me where they have a passenger flying into Shannon Barcelona !
On Fri I saw two allover white Caetano Levantes on the M1, one at least was on the 410, the second may also have been on the 410?
I suspect these may have been operating with Epsom Coaches, as I understand that NX ops have taken Epsom's diagrams off the NX 550 back in-house, not sure of the reasons why?
Yes eposoms have an all white one operating on the network and there is aanother london based operstor that have a former hayton of manchester levante that does dupe work. Travelled on it earlier this year on 540
Quote from: dannygill on April 24, 2013, 08:26:17 PM
Yes eposoms have an all white one operating on the network and there is aanother london based operstor that have a former hayton of manchester levante that does dupe work. Travelled on it earlier this year on 540
Epsom may have two all white Levante's, I saw two in close succession on both North/Southbound trips up the M1 a week last Fri,
Have you heard anymore where Rotala's 11 plate Levante may go now DeCourcey have taken on their NX work
Quote from: Winston on April 24, 2013, 08:35:39 PM
Quote from: dannygill on April 24, 2013, 08:26:17 PM
Yes eposoms have an all white one operating on the network and there is aanother london based operstor that have a former hayton of manchester levante that does dupe work. Travelled on it earlier this year on 540
Epsom may have two all white Levante's, I saw two in close succession on both North/Southbound trips up the M1 a week last Fri,
Have you heard anymore where Rotala's 11 plate Levante may go now DeCourcey have taken on their NX work
Some of those were operating in allover white in their last week as well
Its been reported that arriva are taking legal action against the descion to allow nx to run the a1 service and not to permit arrivas 757 service into the airport. Arriva are currently working with a car park comapany shuttle bus service to provide a service still to the airport.
Quote from: dannygill on May 02, 2013, 02:27:09 AM
Its been reported that arriva are taking legal action against the descion to allow nx to run the a1 service and not to permit arrivas 757 service into the airport. Arriva are currently working with a car park comapany shuttle bus service to provide a service still to the airport.
Working with a car park company? The two Primos are Arriva owned vehicles which were in the TGM fleet, but are now operating with Arriv the Shires legals, but painted in the livery of the car park company
Epsom coaches who run a regular 410 service to Wolverhampton and who also do a lot of service extra services (dupes) have repainted one of there nx levantes into there own colours, and was on the 17:30 410 today, and it looks cracking.
Epsom aren't the only ones to have non nx branded levantes, there are ever increasing more amounts creeping up, Yeomans Cannon travel of Hereford had a tri-axle Scania levante running on the 528 yesterday and you will regulary serr Travellers choice scania levantes come through Birmingham too!
Does anyone know who operates the 461 litchfield-london service. Used to be run by veolia durham ajd didnt know the service was still going
Quote from: dannygill on October 03, 2013, 11:16:11 AM
Does anyone know who operates the 461 litchfield-london service. Used to be run by veolia durham ajd didnt know the service was still going
Should still be Yourbus Durham depot, due that is due to be closed down soon with Go-North East & EYMS taking over some of the work
New NX coach ticket sales deal agreed with the Post Office
http://www.thebusinessdesk.com/westmidlands/news/524248-national-express-secures-coach-ticket-deal-with-post-office.html?news_section=19036#
Quote from: Winston on October 03, 2013, 11:45:07 AM
Quote from: dannygill on October 03, 2013, 11:16:11 AM
Does anyone know who operates the 461 litchfield-london service. Used to be run by veolia durham ajd didnt know the service was still going
Should still be Yourbus Durham depot, due that is due to be closed down soon with Go-North East & EYMS taking over some of the work
The 461 interworks in with the 426 I believe. I believe it is operated by Heanor depot, but possibly with a Durham vehicle? I do not believe this particular diagram is due to change over the coming weeks.
anyone know where yn55ndz is going, see its now listed as left fleet, very sad as it marks and end of an era on the national express coach network, no more PB's
Quote from: dannygill on November 06, 2013, 11:08:23 PM
anyone know where yn55ndz is going, see its now listed as left fleet, very sad as it marks and end of an era on the national express coach network, no more PB's
Now with South Gloucestershire B&C - & still in nx livery to the best of my knowledge.
Although there's not much in it build-quality wise, give me a 'PB over Crapano Lavatories any day of the week - !
Quote from: dave47549 (no longer NEL111P) on November 06, 2013, 11:25:07 PM
Quote from: dannygill on November 06, 2013, 11:08:23 PM
anyone know where yn55ndz is going, see its now listed as left fleet, very sad as it marks and end of an era on the national express coach network, no more PB's
Now with South Gloucestershire B&C - & still in nx livery to the best of my knowledge.
Although there's not much in it build-quality wise, give me a 'PB over Crapano Lavatories any day of the week - !
Irizar have lost out big style on regular large fleet orders by not being prepared to adapt/re-design the PB's front entrance to accommodate the PLS wheelchair lifts.
An entire NX fleet comprising of Irizar PB's would look far superior to the Levantes
Quote from: Winston on November 07, 2013, 12:00:29 AM
Quote from: dave47549 (no longer NEL111P) on November 06, 2013, 11:25:07 PM
Quote from: dannygill on November 06, 2013, 11:08:23 PM
anyone know where yn55ndz is going, see its now listed as left fleet, very sad as it marks and end of an era on the national express coach network, no more PB's
Now with South Gloucestershire B&C - & still in nx livery to the best of my knowledge.
Although there's not much in it build-quality wise, give me a 'PB over Crapano Lavatories any day of the week - !
Irizar have lost out big style on regular large fleet orders by not being prepared to adapt/re-design the PB's front entrance to accommodate the PLS wheelchair lifts.
An entire NX fleet comprising of Irizar PB's would look far superior to the Levantes
wouldn't it just!!! lets hope that more I6's and centrurys come onto the network! that god that Ulsterbus are still buying Irizar! and better than Volvo levantes are bruces new 12 plate tri scanny's!!
Quote from: dannygill on November 07, 2013, 12:11:27 AM
Quote from: Winston on November 07, 2013, 12:00:29 AM
Quote from: dave47549 (no longer NEL111P) on November 06, 2013, 11:25:07 PM
Quote from: dannygill on November 06, 2013, 11:08:23 PM
anyone know where yn55ndz is going, see its now listed as left fleet, very sad as it marks and end of an era on the national express coach network, no more PB's
Now with South Gloucestershire B&C - & still in nx livery to the best of my knowledge.
Although there's not much in it build-quality wise, give me a 'PB over Crapano Lavatories any day of the week - !
Irizar have lost out big style on regular large fleet orders by not being prepared to adapt/re-design the PB's front entrance to accommodate the PLS wheelchair lifts.
An entire NX fleet comprising of Irizar PB's would look far superior to the Levantes
wouldn't it just!!! lets hope that more I6's and centrurys come onto the network! that god that Ulsterbus are still buying Irizar! and better than Volvo levantes are bruces new 12 plate tri scanny's!!
The main problem for Irizar is that they typically body Scania's for the UK market, Scania chassis seem to have fallen out of favour with NX for both new coach & bus orders. I understand Scania engines can be quite thirsty of the old fuel. I notice for Euro 6 Scania will be fitting Cummins ISB engines to buses, not sure if this is instead of their own or an alternative option?
Quote from: Winston on November 07, 2013, 12:00:29 AM
Irizar have lost out big style on regular large fleet orders by not being prepared to adapt/re-design the PB's front entrance to accommodate the PLS wheelchair lifts.
An entire NX fleet comprising of Irizar PB's would look far superior to the Levantes
I understand they (Irizar) looked at the feasibility of doing so, but ruled it out as being unworkable. I'm happy with that as it would have totally destroyed the iconic taurean frontal styling.
It's ironic that whilst nx was pushing for a more 'user-friendly' (It was my day off when the prototype Levante was demoe'd at our place, I was told it took over an hour for the PLS lift to go through its cycle!) platform than a conventional side mounted lift, they had the ideal (& far more practical) kit in use already - the Neoplan Skyliner. Unfortunately, events blew that idea out of the water before the thought had even dawned on them.
I've seen a couple of BP63 plated coaches while in London
Quote from: Ex BC driver on November 08, 2013, 12:25:55 AM
I've seen a couple of BP63 plated coaches while in London
There are quite a few new Levante due/recently delivered with various NX sub contractors, but they are all registered BF63---
East yorkshires are registered yx
5351hp is on loan to bruces coaches in use on the 539 today
Quote from: dannygill on November 18, 2013, 01:57:48 PM
5351hp is on loan to bruces coaches in use on the 539 today
This has been on the 539 regularly over the past few weeks. Prior to this it has made occasional appearances, including being used on the 539 the morning of the fire at Bruce's depot.
It seems made bruces using volvos as I know there not a fan nor there drivers but I guess you cant be picky at a time of need!!
Quote from: dannygill on November 22, 2013, 11:32:35 AM
It seems made bruces using volvos as I know there not a fan nor there drivers but I guess you cant be picky at a time of need!!
Notepanel29 posted this on NX coaches yahoo group, I assume they are further Scania?
It appears that Bruce's are due some new vehicles imminently...
FN63 PWL/PWO/PWU/PWX/PWY
All currently at Caetano in Ibstock. Due to the quantity I assume these are Tri-axle vehicles. If so, they'll be the first new batch for several years.
Quote from: Winston on November 22, 2013, 11:36:26 AM
Quote from: dannygill on November 22, 2013, 11:32:35 AM
It seems made bruces using volvos as I know there not a fan nor there drivers but I guess you cant be picky at a time of need!!
Notepanel29 posted this on NX coaches yahoo group, I assume they are further Scania?
It appears that Bruce's are due some new vehicles imminently...
FN63 PWL/PWO/PWU/PWX/PWY
All currently at Caetano in Ibstock. Due to the quantity I assume these are Tri-axle vehicles. If so, they'll be the first new batch for several years.
I've not been following the scene to my usual standards lately, but the '13 season build that I'm aware of runs to at least 41 bodies, & I don't know any that aren't on twin axle B9's.
Quote from: dave47549 (no longer NEL111P) on November 23, 2013, 01:20:01 AM
Quote from: Winston on November 22, 2013, 11:36:26 AM
Quote from: dannygill on November 22, 2013, 11:32:35 AM
It seems made bruces using volvos as I know there not a fan nor there drivers but I guess you cant be picky at a time of need!!
Notepanel29 posted this on NX coaches yahoo group, I assume they are further Scania?
It appears that Bruce's are due some new vehicles imminently...
FN63 PWL/PWO/PWU/PWX/PWY
All currently at Caetano in Ibstock. Due to the quantity I assume these are Tri-axle vehicles. If so, they'll be the first new batch for several years.
I've not been following the scene to my usual standards lately, but the '13 season build that I'm aware of runs to at least 41 bodies, & I don't know any that aren't on twin axle B9's.
Cheers Dave, Looks as though NX are dropping the tri-axles across the board then, I just thought Bruce's could have been the exception to that rule, as they have taken on the one off 12 plate Scania tri-axle, obviously wasn't that successful
Quote from: Winston on November 23, 2013, 01:35:34 AM
Quote from: dave47549 (no longer NEL111P) on November 23, 2013, 01:20:01 AM
Quote from: Winston on November 22, 2013, 11:36:26 AM
Quote from: dannygill on November 22, 2013, 11:32:35 AM
It seems made bruces using volvos as I know there not a fan nor there drivers but I guess you cant be picky at a time of need!!
Notepanel29 posted this on NX coaches yahoo group, I assume they are further Scania?
It appears that Bruce's are due some new vehicles imminently...
FN63 PWL/PWO/PWU/PWX/PWY
All currently at Caetano in Ibstock. Due to the quantity I assume these are Tri-axle vehicles. If so, they'll be the first new batch for several years.
I've not been following the scene to my usual standards lately, but the '13 season build that I'm aware of runs to at least 41 bodies, & I don't know any that aren't on twin axle B9's.
Cheers Dave, Looks as though NX are dropping the tri-axles across the board then, I just thought Bruce's could have been the exception to that rule, as they have taken on the one off 12 plate Scania tri-axle, obviously wasn't that successful
I was speaking to a Bruces driver yesterday who was under the impression they would be tri-axle (to quote the driver "more heaps of plastic shit")
PWU operated the 336 ex Edinburgh last night, which should operate the 1640 ex Plymouth back this evening, whilst PWL is on the southbound 539 today (if anyone wants/is able to check!).
Quote from: dave47549 (no longer NEL111P) on November 23, 2013, 01:20:01 AM
Quote from: Winston on November 22, 2013, 11:36:26 AM
Quote from: dannygill on November 22, 2013, 11:32:35 AM
It seems made bruces using volvos as I know there not a fan nor there drivers but I guess you cant be picky at a time of need!!
Notepanel29 posted this on NX coaches yahoo group, I assume they are further Scania?
It appears that Bruce's are due some new vehicles imminently...
FN63 PWL/PWO/PWU/PWX/PWY
All currently at Caetano in Ibstock. Due to the quantity I assume these are Tri-axle vehicles. If so, they'll be the first new batch for several years.
I've not been following the scene to my usual standards lately, but the '13 season build that I'm aware of runs to at least 41 bodies, & I don't know any that aren't on twin axle B9's.
Scrub that. Whatever they are, they're NOT B9R's.
Quote from: dave47549 (no longer NEL111P) on November 23, 2013, 02:33:17 PM
Quote from: dave47549 (no longer NEL111P) on November 23, 2013, 01:20:01 AM
Quote from: Winston on November 22, 2013, 11:36:26 AM
Quote from: dannygill on November 22, 2013, 11:32:35 AM
It seems made bruces using volvos as I know there not a fan nor there drivers but I guess you cant be picky at a time of need!!
Notepanel29 posted this on NX coaches yahoo group, I assume they are further Scania?
It appears that Bruce's are due some new vehicles imminently...
FN63 PWL/PWO/PWU/PWX/PWY
All currently at Caetano in Ibstock. Due to the quantity I assume these are Tri-axle vehicles. If so, they'll be the first new batch for several years.
I've not been following the scene to my usual standards lately, but the '13 season build that I'm aware of runs to at least 41 bodies, & I don't know any that aren't on twin axle B9's.
Scrub that. Whatever they are, they're NOT B9R's.
The fact that Bruce's have had the only 12 plate tri-axle Scania/Levante, I suspect it may be more of those
Coach 164 now has SR so I'm guessing it is now allocated to Sipson Road.
East Yorkshire 81 is YY63 OEM
Is there a way to find out which NX coaches belong to whom if that makes sense i.e
MD15 - Travel-De-Courcey an so forth ?
Quote from: Nathan4775 on November 24, 2013, 05:10:23 PM
Is there a way to find out which NX coaches belong to whom if that makes sense i.e
MD15 - Travel-De-Courcey an so forth ?
There
might be, bear with me. ;)
Quote from: dave47549 (no longer NEL111P) on November 24, 2013, 05:43:14 PM
Quote from: Nathan4775 on November 24, 2013, 05:10:23 PM
Is there a way to find out which NX coaches belong to whom if that makes sense i.e
MD15 - Travel-De-Courcey an so forth ?
There might be, bear with me. ;)
Or
http://hbpub.co.uk/national.htm ;)
Quote from: Winston on November 24, 2013, 05:53:39 PM
Quote from: dave47549 (no longer NEL111P) on November 24, 2013, 05:43:14 PM
Quote from: Nathan4775 on November 24, 2013, 05:10:23 PM
Is there a way to find out which NX coaches belong to whom if that makes sense i.e
MD15 - Travel-De-Courcey an so forth ?
There might be, bear with me. ;)
Or
http://hbpub.co.uk/national.htm ;)
I'd just like to point out that since the 2012 'NX01' pocket book, the only involvement I've had is the pic on the cover of the 2013 'HB12' ;D
Quote from: Winston on November 23, 2013, 05:34:15 PM
Quote from: dave47549 (no longer NEL111P) on November 23, 2013, 02:33:17 PM
Quote from: dave47549 (no longer NEL111P) on November 23, 2013, 01:20:01 AM
Quote from: Winston on November 22, 2013, 11:36:26 AM
Quote from: dannygill on November 22, 2013, 11:32:35 AM
It seems made bruces using volvos as I know there not a fan nor there drivers but I guess you cant be picky at a time of need!!
Notepanel29 posted this on NX coaches yahoo group, I assume they are further Scania?
It appears that Bruce's are due some new vehicles imminently...
FN63 PWL/PWO/PWU/PWX/PWY
All currently at Caetano in Ibstock. Due to the quantity I assume these are Tri-axle vehicles. If so, they'll be the first new batch for several years.
I've not been following the scene to my usual standards lately, but the '13 season build that I'm aware of runs to at least 41 bodies, & I don't know any that aren't on twin axle B9's.
Scrub that. Whatever they are, they're NOT B9R's.
The fact that Bruce's have had the only 12 plate tri-axle Scania/Levante, I suspect it may be more of those
I was told shortly after the fire at bruces that they had bought the demonstrator (12 plate) and that they had 9 more scanias on order. wasn't told if they was going to be tri axles but the Scotland services are really busy and it would be silly not to use tri's!
does anyone know how the Bristol commuter service is run?
is it run by kings ferry or sub contracted to south glocester (or someone like them) or is it run directly by kf and if so have they set up a depot down there?
do kf have just the one depot prior to Bristol?
Quote from: dannygill on November 24, 2013, 08:06:43 PM
does anyone know how the Bristol commuter service is run?
is it run by kings ferry or sub contracted to south glocester (or someone like them) or is it run directly by kf and if so have they set up a depot down there?
do kf have just the one depot prior to Bristol?
It's run by Kings Ferry directly with 4 brand new 63 plate Caetano bodied Volvo B9R's and a former Silverdale/NX Op's 06 plate Volvo B12B/Caetano Levante which has been refurbished to act as a spare. They are operated out of the Volvo dealership in Avonmouth
Fn63pwk one of bruces new TRI-AXLE SCANIA CANTAEO LEVANTES. Like with their demonstrator the drivers side lockers are manually operated.
Quote from: dannygill on November 28, 2013, 02:31:03 PM
Fn63pwk one of bruces new TRI-AXLE SCANIA CANTAEO LEVANTES. Like with their demonstrator the drivers side lockers are manually operated.
I noticed that one being posted on a Yahoo group, the registration appears to be additional to the other six that were previously quoted, so looks as though at least seven are now due
Change of Subject slightly.
But what will be the next industry standard National Express coach?
Would be nice to see them return to Plaxton and try the Elite-I platform.
Ok its not quite a double decker but would be great for capacity and comfort. just imagine the wood floor effect and leathers
. Mint
Quote from: Winston on November 28, 2013, 03:02:31 PM
Quote from: dannygill on November 28, 2013, 02:31:03 PM
Fn63pwk one of bruces new TRI-AXLE SCANIA CANTAEO LEVANTES. Like with their demonstrator the drivers side lockers are manually operated.
I noticed that one being posted on a Yahoo group, the registration appears to be additional to the other six that were previously quoted, so looks as though at least seven are now due
8 are currently known FN63 PWJ/PWK/PWL/PWO/PWU/PWX/PWY/PWZ. Presumably, if YN12 CZJ is staying that completes the batch.
According to the latest Bus & Coach Buyer from an interview with Tom Stables (NX coaches MD).
NX have 42 x Tri-axle Levantes on order this year (28 for Owned Ops at Stansted & a further 14 for elsewhere)
The article also suggests 20 standard Levante are also still outstanding this year
Quote from: Winston on April 04, 2014, 05:52:27 PM
According to the latest Bus & Coach Buyer from an interview with Tom Stables (NX coaches MD).
NX have 42 x Tri-axle Levantes on order this year (28 for Owned Ops at Stansted & a further 14 for elsewhere)
The article also suggests 20 standard Levante are also still outstanding this year
That order should replace all of the current Owned Ops Tri-Axle Fleet (currently 27 by my count) at Start Hill (Stansted).
It is to my understanding that Go Northern are not looking to replace their vehicles until next year (and are still undecided over a Volvo or Scania version), so in theory the remaining vehicles could replace the 57 & 58 plate examples at SGBC & Lucketts (which would equate to 43 vehicles if I've counted correctly!)
With regards the standard vehicles, '56' plate examples are still in normal service with Selwyns, SGBC & TGM/MK Metro (officially on NX Fleet Strength as 3, 2 & 4 respectively). With SGBC still operating at least 7 2003 model vehicles in NX Livery & TGM/MK Metro still operating numerous '07' plate examples, I would like to think these operators (or replacement operators) would be receiving some new vehicles! Any spare would most likely go to Bournemouth Transport to replace the remaining older examples there.
Quote from: notepanel on April 04, 2014, 10:56:52 PM
Quote from: Winston on April 04, 2014, 05:52:27 PM
According to the latest Bus & Coach Buyer from an interview with Tom Stables (NX coaches MD).
NX have 42 x Tri-axle Levantes on order this year (28 for Owned Ops at Stansted & a further 14 for elsewhere)
The article also suggests 20 standard Levante are also still outstanding this year
That order should replace all of the current Owned Ops Tri-Axle Fleet (currently 27 by my count) at Start Hill (Stansted).
It is to my understanding that Go Northern are not looking to replace their vehicles until next year (and are still undecided over a Volvo or Scania version), so in theory the remaining vehicles could replace the 57 & 58 plate examples at SGBC & Lucketts (which would equate to 43 vehicles if I've counted correctly!)
With regards the standard vehicles, '56' plate examples are still in normal service with Selwyns, SGBC & TGM/MK Metro (officially on NX Fleet Strength as 3, 2 & 4 respectively). With SGBC still operating at least 7 2003 model vehicles in NX Livery & TGM/MK Metro still operating numerous '07' plate examples, I would like to think these operators (or replacement operators) would be receiving some new vehicles! Any spare would most likely go to Bournemouth Transport to replace the remaining older examples there.
I was under the impression that tri-axles were out of favour at owned ops, a number of the 57 plate examples have been withdrawn and replaced by standard Levante including some of the ex Rotala examples. SGBC tri-axle Levantes have been advertised for sale for sometime with no takers to date. As you say SGBC seem to be operating a number of coaches in NX livery far older than the max 7 yr age limit. They've only recently taken some ex Stagecoach 56 plate Levantes for NX work
Sgbc operate vehicles regulary that are old such as lk53 xxx plaxton panthers and vanhools, but these then to be used on dupes.
Anyone know what chasis these new coaches will be on?
And parks of hamilton are continueing to replace there tri axle panthers there was a 14 plate elite on 570 service on sat, was told that the 09 plate planthers have 1.5 million miles on the clock in 5 years
Tri axle elites seem good
I saw an old coach, I think L-reg, on the Hagley Road on Saturday. I'm sure it was in service. What are the oldest vehicles still operated by National Express?
Quote from: Matt on April 07, 2014, 10:00:52 PM
I saw an old coach, I think L-reg, on the Hagley Road on Saturday. I'm sure it was in service. What are the oldest vehicles still operated by National Express?
Nothing anywhere near that old. NX or their contractors are mostly 06 plate or newer, as has been said some contractors like SGBC have some as old as 53 plates. You may have seen one of SGBCs private L-SGB private plates they have on a few coaches they still use as dupes on NX work
Quote from: bwsau cymru on April 07, 2014, 09:49:25 PM
Sgbc operate vehicles regulary that are old such as lk53 xxx plaxton panthers and vanhools, but these then to be used on dupes.
Anyone know what chasis these new coaches will be on?
And parks of hamilton are continueing to replace there tri axle panthers there was a 14 plate elite on 570 service on sat, was told that the 09 plate planthers have 1.5 million miles on the clock in 5 years
Tri axle elites seem good
There's rumours of the tri-axles being on VDL
Quote from: Ex BC driver on April 08, 2014, 01:26:49 AM
Quote from: bwsau cymru on April 07, 2014, 09:49:25 PM
Sgbc operate vehicles regulary that are old such as lk53 xxx plaxton panthers and vanhools, but these then to be used on dupes.
Anyone know what chasis these new coaches will be on?
And parks of hamilton are continueing to replace there tri axle panthers there was a 14 plate elite on 570 service on sat, was told that the 09 plate planthers have 1.5 million miles on the clock in 5 years
Tri axle elites seem good
There's rumours of the tri-axles being on VDL
VDL isn't normally a chassis used on NX work, only really Selwyns & Galloways used to DAF/VDL chassis new with Van Hool bodywork up to 2006 & 2004 respectively. Both of those operators have since switched to standard Volvo/Levante.
SGBC still operate older VDL/Van Hools which were new to the Birmingham Coach Company and were originally 03 & 53 plate, most if not all of those are now registered with private plates i.e. L---SGB. Not sure why SGBC and a handful of others are allowed to use coaches on the NX network older than the 7 year old rule, its not as though they are in allover white & only used on dupes
Quote from: Tony on April 07, 2014, 10:11:46 PM
Quote from: Matt on April 07, 2014, 10:00:52 PM
I saw an old coach, I think L-reg, on the Hagley Road on Saturday. I'm sure it was in service. What are the oldest vehicles still operated by National Express?
Nothing anywhere near that old. NX or their contractors are mostly 06 plate or newer, as has been said some contractors like SGBC have some as old as 53 plates. You may have seen one of SGBCs private L-SGB private plates they have on a few coaches they still use as dupes on NX work
I believe SGBC L444 SGB were covering a breakdown on EYMS 327 service on Saturday. As stated in other comments this is a 2003 vehicle, although I do agree, considering it's only 10 years old, it looks ancient! From a passenger perspective, it's hard to believe the first Levantes on the network were just three years later!
SGBC do seem to try and keep the older vehicles as 'spare', which maybe why they are allowed to keep them. For example today of all the 2003 models only LK53 WKD & WKE were in service (both on the 200 route). This number has dropped back down following the recent end to the additional 504 Plymouth journeys.
With regards new vehicles, I don't know what the new order will be but I'd be surprised if it were anything other than the usual! The latest batch of new vehicles are now at the Levante depot in Leicester (I believe these to be standard length). I'm not sure who these are destined for, or whether they are the newer style (like Travellers FN63 PXB), but registrations are BK14 LDX/Y/Z & LEJ.
Quote from: notepanel on April 08, 2014, 07:13:11 PM
Quote from: Tony on April 07, 2014, 10:11:46 PM
Quote from: Matt on April 07, 2014, 10:00:52 PM
I saw an old coach, I think L-reg, on the Hagley Road on Saturday. I'm sure it was in service. What are the oldest vehicles still operated by National Express?
Nothing anywhere near that old. NX or their contractors are mostly 06 plate or newer, as has been said some contractors like SGBC have some as old as 53 plates. You may have seen one of SGBCs private L-SGB private plates they have on a few coaches they still use as dupes on NX work
I believe SGBC L444 SGB were covering a breakdown on EYMS 327 service on Saturday. As stated in other comments this is a 2003 vehicle, although I do agree, considering it's only 10 years old, it looks ancient! From a passenger perspective, it's hard to believe the first Levantes on the network were just three years later!
SGBC do seem to try and keep the older vehicles as 'spare', which maybe why they are allowed to keep them. For example today of all the 2003 models only LK53 WKD & WKE were in service (both on the 200 route). This number has dropped back down following the recent end to the additional 504 Plymouth journeys.
With regards new vehicles, I don't know what the new order will be but I'd be surprised if it were anything other than the usual! The latest batch of new vehicles are now at the Levante depot in Leicester (I believe these to be standard length). I'm not sure who these are destined for, or whether they are the newer style (like Travellers FN63 PXB), but registrations are BK14 LDX/Y/Z & LEJ.
Forgot SGBC had those 53 plate Panthers as well as the VDL/ Van Hool. Not to mention the 56 reg ex Stagecoach Levantes which they've retired due to being too old, but SGBC have put back on the NX network. SGBC seem to have a large quantity of coaches that are older than 7 years and that they should need for spares. The difference between SGBC & other operators that sometimes have older NX coaches acting as spares in allover white, whereas SGBC are in full NX livery.
I think the article in Bus & Coach said 20 standard Levante were still outstanding
I never knew the 410 goes to Walsall?
how many journey do they have that go to Walsall?
Not sure how many each way go via Walsall, I know that the Whittle operated 19:00 410 from Victoria terminates at Walsall, and the De Courcey operated 22:00 410 from Victoria to Wolverhampton goes via Walsall
Anyone know where I can find a list of who runs what. I'm especially keen on finding out the times for the 007 The Kings Ferry runs.
Quote from: Ex BC driver on April 17, 2014, 03:55:39 PM
Not sure how many each way go via Walsall, I know that the Whittle operated 19:00 410 from Victoria terminates at Walsall, and the De Courcey operated 22:00 410 from Victoria to Wolverhampton goes via Walsall
That makes sense as I was questioning why my coach from Victoria was:
a) driven by a Whittles driver
b) terminating at Walsall when they usually finish in Wolverhampton
thanks for the info
Quote from: OH25 on April 17, 2014, 05:34:51 PM
Quote from: Ex BC driver on April 17, 2014, 03:55:39 PM
Not sure how many each way go via Walsall, I know that the Whittle operated 19:00 410 from Victoria terminates at Walsall, and the De Courcey operated 22:00 410 from Victoria to Wolverhampton goes via Walsall
That makes sense as I was questioning why my coach from Victoria was:
a) driven by a Whittles driver
b) terminating at Walsall when they usually finish in Wolverhampton
thanks for the info
Previously every journey on the 410 either terminated at Birmingham or Wolverhampton - however, since the 417 service was withdrawn last September (London-Stafford via Birmingham, Walsall, Bloxwich, Cannock & Stafford), Whittles 410 was extended from Birmingham through to Walsall as a partial replacement. As a general rule the 410 runs every two hours through to Wolverhampton, with journeys alternating between via Five Ways, Bearwood & Dudley or via Perry Barr, Great Barr & Walsall. Of note, the 210 (which also runs through to Wolves on certain journeys) only operates via Bearwood & Dudley.
There are three journeys to London - all of which are operated by DeCourcey, these are the 0715 ex Wolves (0740 ex Walsall), 1025 ex Wolves (1045 ex Walsall), 1425 ex Wolves (1445 ex Walsall).
There are four return journeys 1000 ex VCS (1310 Walsall operated by DeCourcey), 1600 ex VCS (1930 Walsall operated by Haytons), 1900 ex VCS (2205 Walsall - terminus. Operated by Whittles) & 2200 ex VCS (0100 Walsall - operated by DeCourcey).
Quote from: the trainbasher on April 17, 2014, 04:09:20 PM
Anyone know where I can find a list of who runs what. I'm especially keen on finding out the times for the 007 The Kings Ferry runs.
The Kings Ferry no longer operate workings on the 007 - this route is now run exclusively by Stagecoach.
Quote from: notepanel on April 17, 2014, 08:52:38 PM
Quote from: the trainbasher on April 17, 2014, 04:09:20 PM
Anyone know where I can find a list of who runs what. I'm especially keen on finding out the times for the 007 The Kings Ferry runs.
The Kings Ferry no longer operate workings on the 007 - this route is now run exclusively by Stagecoach.
Cheers. Was kind of looking forward to seeing a TKF vehicle whilst on my explorations on NX work
Quote from: the trainbasher on April 17, 2014, 09:29:27 PM
Quote from: notepanel on April 17, 2014, 08:52:38 PM
Quote from: the trainbasher on April 17, 2014, 04:09:20 PM
Anyone know where I can find a list of who runs what. I'm especially keen on finding out the times for the 007 The Kings Ferry runs.
The Kings Ferry no longer operate workings on the 007 - this route is now run exclusively by Stagecoach.
Cheers. Was kind of looking forward to seeing a TKF vehicle whilst on my explorations on NX work
If you're looking this weekend, there is a chance you'll spot a couple operating dupe services around the London area!
Quote from: the trainbasher on April 17, 2014, 09:29:27 PM
Quote from: notepanel on April 17, 2014, 08:52:38 PM
Quote from: the trainbasher on April 17, 2014, 04:09:20 PM
Anyone know where I can find a list of who runs what. I'm especially keen on finding out the times for the 007 The Kings Ferry runs.
The Kings Ferry no longer operate workings on the 007 - this route is now run exclusively by Stagecoach.
Cheers. Was kind of looking forward to seeing a TKF vehicle whilst on my explorations on NX work
If you're particularly interested in seeing Kings Ferry vehicles, try Canary Wharf around 3-4pm ish Mon - Fri, I understand via Tony that TKF park up their coaches in the grounds of Millwall Football Club during the day
Im dowm at Gatwick airport this weekend and having parked my coach on the coach park i must say im very impressed with the condition of the National coaches. They all seem to be very clean outside with very little body damage being evident and the drivers also smart in apperance. A real credit to the UK coach industry.
Will Caetano only be supplying the re-designed Levante bodywork for Euro 6 Volvo models i.e. the B8R or B11R?
https://www.flickr.com/photos/dd67773/11801900513/
The 14 plate Levante's recently delivered to Bennetts, Gloucester on B9R chassis are still to the current design
NX Aircraft branding....
http://www.businessandleadership.com/marketing/item/46208-ryanair-and-national/
Bennetts Coaches awarded 'Best Overall Operator of the Year Award' for third year on the trot....
http://www.southwestbusiness.co.uk/news/03062014075052-gloucestershire-business-bennetts-coaches---three-awards-come-along-at-once--including-national-express-overall-operator-of-the-year-award/
PD0000738/225 - NATIONAL EXPRESS LTD, BIRMINGHAM COACH STATION, DIGBETH, BIRMINGHAM, B5 6DD
Variation Accepted: Operating between STREET, CRISPIN HALL and LONDON VICTORIA given service number 403 effective from 07-Jul-2014. To amend Route, Stopping Places and Timetable.
PD0000738/299 - NATIONAL EXPRESS LTD, BIRMINGHAM COACH STATION, DIGBETH, BIRMINGHAM, B5 6DD
Variation Accepted: Operating between Swansea Bus Station and Heathrpw Airport, Terminal 5 given service number 202 effective from 09-Jun-2014. To amend Timetable.
PD0000738/320 - NATIONAL EXPRESS LTD, BIRMINGHAM COACH STATION, DIGBETH, BIRMINGHAM, B5 6DD
Registration Accepted
Starting Point: Bristol Coach Station
Finish Point: London, Victoria Coach Station
Via: Swindon, Heathrow
Service Number: 401
Service Type: Normal Stopping
Effective Date: 07-JUL-2014
Other Details: Daily
SW09UMD on NX328
PD0000738/317 - NATIONAL EXPRESS LTD, BIRMINGHAM COACH STATION, DIGBETH, BIRMINGHAM, B5 6DD
Variation Accepted: Operating between Huddersfield and Brixham, Bank Lane given service number 324 effective from 08-Sep-2014. To amend Route, Stopping Places and Timetable.
PD0000738/318 - NATIONAL EXPRESS LTD, BIRMINGHAM COACH STATION, DIGBETH, BIRMINGHAM, B5 6DD
Variation Accepted: Operating between Scarborough, Rail Station and Bristol Bus Station given service number 327 effective from 08-Sep-2014. To amend Route, Stopping Places and Timetable
Former C054 looks very smart in Blue
http://wmbusphotos.com/non-wm/Scottish/BruceVXI696.html
Now anyone that can get that location does deserve a prize (the destination is correct for the service)
De Courcey MD8 was on display at NXWM WN garage open day today
PD0000738/238 - NATIONAL EXPRESS LTD, BIRMINGHAM COACH STATION, DIGBETH, BIRMINGHAM, B5 6DD
Cancellation Accepted: Operating between Swansea Bus Station and Chepstow Bus Station/Gatwick Airport given service number 201 effective from 15-Sep-2014.
PD0000738/299 - NATIONAL EXPRESS LTD, BIRMINGHAM COACH STATION, DIGBETH, BIRMINGHAM, B5 6DD
Cancellation Accepted: Operating between Swansea Bus Station and Heathrpw Airport, Terminal 5 given service number 202 effective from 15-Sep-2014.
PD0000738/309 - NATIONAL EXPRESS LTD, BIRMINGHAM COACH STATION, DIGBETH, BIRMINGHAM, B5 6DD
Cancellation Accepted: Operating between Newcastle Coach Station and Luton Bus Station given service number 326 effective from 15-Sep-2014.
Saw two new tri-axles allocated to Start Hill, BK14 LFT and LFU
Hills BX11DGF on NX570 BCS-Blackpool
Quote from: Ex BC driver on July 26, 2014, 12:20:34 AM
Saw two new tri-axles allocated to Start Hill, BK14 LFT and LFU
There are 26 x Scania Tri-axles due at Start Hill to replace the A6 & A9 fleet
I've seen reports of BK14LFP & SH178 BK14LFS, it was also mentioned that here may be a small batch of Toyota/Caetano due for somewhere?
The Kings Ferry have also recently taken delivery of 6 x 13 plate Levante's formerly at NX Luton on the A1
Quote from: Winston on July 28, 2014, 01:09:52 PM
Quote from: Ex BC driver on July 26, 2014, 12:20:34 AM
Saw two new tri-axles allocated to Start Hill, BK14 LFT and LFU
There are 26 x Scania Tri-axles due at Start Hill to replace the A6 & A9 fleet
I've seen reports of BK14LFP & SH178 BK14LFS, it was also mentioned that here may be a small batch of Toyota/Caetano due for somewhere?
The Kings Ferry have also recently taken delivery of 6 x 13 plate Levante's formerly at NX Luton on the A1
I did wonder if they were Scania or not because of the Birmingham registrations. I've not had a look in one yet
Quote from: Ex BC driver on July 29, 2014, 02:06:51 AM
Quote from: Winston on July 28, 2014, 01:09:52 PM
Quote from: Ex BC driver on July 26, 2014, 12:20:34 AM
Saw two new tri-axles allocated to Start Hill, BK14 LFT and LFU
There are 26 x Scania Tri-axles due at Start Hill to replace the A6 & A9 fleet
I've seen reports of BK14LFP & SH178 BK14LFS, it was also mentioned that here may be a small batch of Toyota/Caetano due for somewhere?
The Kings Ferry have also recently taken delivery of 6 x 13 plate Levante's formerly at NX Luton on the A1
I did wonder if they were Scania or not because of the Birmingham registrations. I've not had a look in one yet
I've not seen any pictures online yet, but they should also have the re-styled Levante bodywork as well
Quote from: Ex BC driver on July 29, 2014, 02:06:51 AM
Quote from: Winston on July 28, 2014, 01:09:52 PM
Quote from: Ex BC driver on July 26, 2014, 12:20:34 AM
Saw two new tri-axles allocated to Start Hill, BK14 LFT and LFU
There are 26 x Scania Tri-axles due at Start Hill to replace the A6 & A9 fleet
I've seen reports of BK14LFP & SH178 BK14LFS, it was also mentioned that here may be a small batch of Toyota/Caetano due for somewhere?
The Kings Ferry have also recently taken delivery of 6 x 13 plate Levante's formerly at NX Luton on the A1
I did wonder if they were Scania or not because of the Birmingham registrations. I've not had a look in one yet
I was told they are on the new B11R as Nat Ex had one to test out. I believe both tri and standard axles are going to be B11R.
Quote from: BN on July 29, 2014, 05:38:01 PM
Quote from: Ex BC driver on July 29, 2014, 02:06:51 AM
Quote from: Winston on July 28, 2014, 01:09:52 PM
Quote from: Ex BC driver on July 26, 2014, 12:20:34 AM
Saw two new tri-axles allocated to Start Hill, BK14 LFT and LFU
There are 26 x Scania Tri-axles due at Start Hill to replace the A6 & A9 fleet
I've seen reports of BK14LFP & SH178 BK14LFS, it was also mentioned that here may be a small batch of Toyota/Caetano due for somewhere?
The Kings Ferry have also recently taken delivery of 6 x 13 plate Levante's formerly at NX Luton on the A1
I did wonder if they were Scania or not because of the Birmingham registrations. I've not had a look in one yet
I was told they are on the new B11R as Nat Ex had one to test out. I believe both tri and standard axles are going to be B11R.
@BN It appears the Tri-axles at least may be Scania rather than Volvo's, I understand confirmation of the order appeared in CBW recently.
Here's a picture of SH178:
https://www.flickr.com/photos/dd67773/14773396591/
Ex LA144 now 414 (4.14) & repainted in to Kings Ferry colours
https://www.flickr.com/photos/58093376@N06/14732477205/
To add further confusion, London Transport Bus News has the 26 new Start Hill tri-axles as Volvo's but B9R's???
Quote from: Winston on August 01, 2014, 08:19:51 PM
To add further confusion, London Transport Bus News has the 26 new Start Hill tri-axles as Volvo's but B9R's???
NX company fleet list lists them as Scanias
Quote from: Tony on August 01, 2014, 08:27:44 PM
Quote from: Winston on August 01, 2014, 08:19:51 PM
To add further confusion, London Transport Bus News has the 26 new Start Hill tri-axles as Volvo's but B9R's???
NX company fleet list lists them as Scanias
Cheers Tony, that's good enough for me! ;D
NX06AAA SH22 (Ex FJ57KHM) was on 1100 NX330 BCS-PBS Today
https://flic.kr/p/oz3289
Quote from: nxwmbusfan1999 on August 05, 2014, 05:56:49 PM
NX06AAA SH22 (Ex FJ57KHM) was on 1100 NX330 BCS-PBS Today
https://flic.kr/p/oz3289
SH22 is its old NX ops fleet number
NX V Festival shuttles from Birmingham 15/08/14
0845 EVV2 BCS-Weston Park
1045 EVV2 BCS-Weston Park
http://www.derbytelegraph.co.uk/Bus-firms-link-free-travel-offer-Derbyshire/story-22084488-detail/story.html
What an excellent idea, one which I have had for ages. It seems a real step forward to creating door to door long distance ticketing
Skills WX07OVJ was on NX675 BCS-Minehead Butlins today departed at 0915 from BCS
PD0000738/241 - NATIONAL EXPRESS LTD, BIRMINGHAM COACH STATION, DIGBETH, BIRMINGHAM, B5 6DD
Variation Accepted: Operating between Pwellheli Bus Station, Maes and London Victoria Coach Stn given service number 545 effective from 20-Oct-2014. To amend Route, Stopping Places and Timetable.
Quote from: Winston on September 09, 2014, 12:16:05 PM
PD0000738/241 - NATIONAL EXPRESS LTD, BIRMINGHAM COACH STATION, DIGBETH, BIRMINGHAM, B5 6DD
Variation Accepted: Operating between Pwellheli Bus Station, Maes and London Victoria Coach Stn given service number 545 effective from 20-Oct-2014. To amend Route, Stopping Places and Timetable.
Could be to do with the one Whittle operates
Quote from: Ex BC driver on September 09, 2014, 03:52:18 PM
Quote from: Winston on September 09, 2014, 12:16:05 PM
PD0000738/241 - NATIONAL EXPRESS LTD, BIRMINGHAM COACH STATION, DIGBETH, BIRMINGHAM, B5 6DD
Variation Accepted: Operating between Pwellheli Bus Station, Maes and London Victoria Coach Stn given service number 545 effective from 20-Oct-2014. To amend Route, Stopping Places and Timetable.
Could be to do with the one Whittle operates
It only changed last week to operate via Telford, Shrewsbury, Oswestry & Wrexham, instead of Stoke, to replace the 418!
Having said that, the 418 had a timetable change just 6 weeks prior to its withdrawal to improve reliability!
Quote from: notepanel on September 09, 2014, 05:37:54 PM
Quote from: Ex BC driver on September 09, 2014, 03:52:18 PM
Quote from: Winston on September 09, 2014, 12:16:05 PM
PD0000738/241 - NATIONAL EXPRESS LTD, BIRMINGHAM COACH STATION, DIGBETH, BIRMINGHAM, B5 6DD
Variation Accepted: Operating between Pwellheli Bus Station, Maes and London Victoria Coach Stn given service number 545 effective from 20-Oct-2014. To amend Route, Stopping Places and Timetable.
Could be to do with the one Whittle operates
It only changed last week to operate via Telford, Shrewsbury, Oswestry & Wrexham, instead of Stoke, to replace the 418!
Having said that, the 418 had a timetable change just 6 weeks prior to its withdrawal to improve reliability!
I have been told the opposite. The 418 has never had a reliability issue, ok yes it left late a lot from Birmingham but just change timetable. Selwyns have created a pattern of cutting the routes they operate with lots of dead milage such as 417.
Yes 545 has just changed to cover telford and shrewsbury so I am shocked to see it change again.
The now 19:00 from Birmingham to Shrewsbury is an absolute mess, Haytons still operate the service as far as Wolverhampton then its transferring passengers onto a Travel Stars coach to do the Telford & Shrewsbury bit.
Whats even more of a mess is that the service only services Dudley, Bearwood, Fiveways, Walsall, Great Barr and perry barr in one direction from telford and shrewsbury.
So cleary this route change has been a complete mess
Quote from: bwsau cymru on September 09, 2014, 10:41:39 PM
Quote from: notepanel on September 09, 2014, 05:37:54 PM
Quote from: Ex BC driver on September 09, 2014, 03:52:18 PM
Quote from: Winston on September 09, 2014, 12:16:05 PM
PD0000738/241 - NATIONAL EXPRESS LTD, BIRMINGHAM COACH STATION, DIGBETH, BIRMINGHAM, B5 6DD
Variation Accepted: Operating between Pwellheli Bus Station, Maes and London Victoria Coach Stn given service number 545 effective from 20-Oct-2014. To amend Route, Stopping Places and Timetable.
Could be to do with the one Whittle operates
It only changed last week to operate via Telford, Shrewsbury, Oswestry & Wrexham, instead of Stoke, to replace the 418!
Having said that, the 418 had a timetable change just 6 weeks prior to its withdrawal to improve reliability!
I have been told the opposite. The 418 has never had a reliability issue, ok yes it left late a lot from Birmingham but just change timetable. Selwyns have created a pattern of cutting the routes they operate with lots of dead milage such as 417.
Yes 545 has just changed to cover telford and shrewsbury so I am shocked to see it change again.
The now 19:00 from Birmingham to Shrewsbury is an absolute mess, Haytons still operate the service as far as Wolverhampton then its transferring passengers onto a Travel Stars coach to do the Telford & Shrewsbury bit.
Whats even more of a mess is that the service only services Dudley, Bearwood, Fiveways, Walsall, Great Barr and perry barr in one direction from telford and shrewsbury.
So cleary this route change has been a complete mess
The 418 timetable was changed in June so that the return journey from London was scheduled to depart Birmingham at 1900 on weekdays instead of 1845. This was because 9 times out of 10 this service operated late when it was due to leave 1845 as it would be delayed on the way up from London. Ironically, with the summer holidays following the change it would have been able to run 'on time' to the old timetable for its remaining month.
From what I'm aware, the main idea behind the change was that the 418 & 545 were both loss making services. I'm not sure exactly how dead mileage comes into play with the NX contracting system but obviously the 418 was a double-manned service that outside of the peak holiday periods carried low loadings, especially between Shrewsbury & Wrexham. It is National Express who have cut the service, not Selwyns. As the 417 & 418 were both double-manned services I'd imagine these have higher running costs than other services, meaning they are more likely to be cut if they aren't paying.
The 545 between Birmingham & Stoke (in both directions) operated at virtually the same time as the 314 service, with often low numbers of customers boarding the northbound 545 service there. By re-routing it via Telford, Shrewsbury, Oswestry & Wrexham the 545 is able to take additional passengers, with running time to the other destinations not being too greatly increased and arguably improved reliability now it is now longer have to use the M6.
Customers travelling London-Stoke have the option of changing at Birmingham with the same journey time, or travelling on a slightly later 550 service that was re-routed to serve Stoke.
To maintain an early morning & evening link to/from the most popular 418 stops of Telford & Shrewsbury, a couple of 410s were extended from Wolverhampton. The timings of these meant that the SB journey is via Dudley, Bearwood & Five Ways and the NB journey via Perry Barr, Great Barr & Walsall. The aim of these extensions was not to provide a link from Walsall or Dudley to Telford/Shrewsbury - it is to continue to provide a link from London & Birmingham (and therefore other destinations via connecting services). Therefore, it is not worth messing around with the every 2 hour London - Dudley/Wolverhampton frequency.
There has been a balls up with the running of the 1600 410 ex London, whereby Travelstar are covering the service between Wolverhampton & Shrewsbury (using the vehicle off the 1305 210), with the current operator Haytons bringing the service as far as Wolverhampton. This is due to an oversight by National Express where the single-manned Haytons driver (which then overnights in Birmingham) does not have the hours to get to Shrewsbury. It is to my understanding this will be rectified in the coming days.
Quote from: notepanel on September 09, 2014, 11:24:37 PM
Quote from: bwsau cymru on September 09, 2014, 10:41:39 PM
Quote from: notepanel on September 09, 2014, 05:37:54 PM
Quote from: Ex BC driver on September 09, 2014, 03:52:18 PM
Quote from: Winston on September 09, 2014, 12:16:05 PM
PD0000738/241 - NATIONAL EXPRESS LTD, BIRMINGHAM COACH STATION, DIGBETH, BIRMINGHAM, B5 6DD
Variation Accepted: Operating between Pwellheli Bus Station, Maes and London Victoria Coach Stn given service number 545 effective from 20-Oct-2014. To amend Route, Stopping Places and Timetable.
Could be to do with the one Whittle operates
It only changed last week to operate via Telford, Shrewsbury, Oswestry & Wrexham, instead of Stoke, to replace the 418!
Having said that, the 418 had a timetable change just 6 weeks prior to its withdrawal to improve reliability!
I have been told the opposite. The 418 has never had a reliability issue, ok yes it left late a lot from Birmingham but just change timetable. Selwyns have created a pattern of cutting the routes they operate with lots of dead milage such as 417.
Yes 545 has just changed to cover telford and shrewsbury so I am shocked to see it change again.
The now 19:00 from Birmingham to Shrewsbury is an absolute mess, Haytons still operate the service as far as Wolverhampton then its transferring passengers onto a Travel Stars coach to do the Telford & Shrewsbury bit.
Whats even more of a mess is that the service only services Dudley, Bearwood, Fiveways, Walsall, Great Barr and perry barr in one direction from telford and shrewsbury.
So cleary this route change has been a complete mess
The 418 timetable was changed in June so that the return journey from London was scheduled to depart Birmingham at 1900 on weekdays instead of 1845. This was because 9 times out of 10 this service operated late when it was due to leave 1845 as it would be delayed on the way up from London. Ironically, with the summer holidays following the change it would have been able to run 'on time' to the old timetable for its remaining month.
From what I'm aware, the main idea behind the change was that the 418 & 545 were both loss making services. I'm not sure exactly how dead mileage comes into play with the NX contracting system but obviously the 418 was a double-manned service that outside of the peak holiday periods carried low loadings, especially between Shrewsbury & Wrexham. It is National Express who have cut the service, not Selwyns. As the 417 & 418 were both double-manned services I'd imagine these have higher running costs than other services, meaning they are more likely to be cut if they aren't paying.
The 545 between Birmingham & Stoke (in both directions) operated at virtually the same time as the 314 service, with often low numbers of customers boarding the northbound 545 service there. By re-routing it via Telford, Shrewsbury, Oswestry & Wrexham the 545 is able to take additional passengers, with running time to the other destinations not being too greatly increased and arguably improved reliability now it is now longer have to use the M6.
Customers travelling London-Stoke have the option of changing at Birmingham with the same journey time, or travelling on a slightly later 550 service that was re-routed to serve Stoke.
To maintain an early morning & evening link to/from the most popular 418 stops of Telford & Shrewsbury, a couple of 410s were extended from Wolverhampton. The timings of these meant that the SB journey is via Dudley, Bearwood & Five Ways and the NB journey via Perry Barr, Great Barr & Walsall. The aim of these extensions was not to provide a link from Walsall or Dudley to Telford/Shrewsbury - it is to continue to provide a link from London & Birmingham (and therefore other destinations via connecting services). Therefore, it is not worth messing around with the every 2 hour London - Dudley/Wolverhampton frequency.
There has been a balls up with the running of the 1600 410 ex London, whereby Travelstar are covering the service between Wolverhampton & Shrewsbury (using the vehicle off the 1305 210), with the current operator Haytons bringing the service as far as Wolverhampton. This is due to an oversight by National Express where the single-manned Haytons driver (which then overnights in Birmingham) does not have the hours to get to Shrewsbury. It is to my understanding this will be rectified in the coming days.
The oversight is that people in offices really need to get out on the network they are running and see how it actually happens rather than looking at a screen.
Quote from: bwsau cymru on September 10, 2014, 09:21:54 PM
Quote from: notepanel on September 09, 2014, 11:24:37 PM
Quote from: bwsau cymru on September 09, 2014, 10:41:39 PM
Quote from: notepanel on September 09, 2014, 05:37:54 PM
Quote from: Ex BC driver on September 09, 2014, 03:52:18 PM
Quote from: Winston on September 09, 2014, 12:16:05 PM
PD0000738/241 - NATIONAL EXPRESS LTD, BIRMINGHAM COACH STATION, DIGBETH, BIRMINGHAM, B5 6DD
Variation Accepted: Operating between Pwellheli Bus Station, Maes and London Victoria Coach Stn given service number 545 effective from 20-Oct-2014. To amend Route, Stopping Places and Timetable.
Could be to do with the one Whittle operates
It only changed last week to operate via Telford, Shrewsbury, Oswestry & Wrexham, instead of Stoke, to replace the 418!
Having said that, the 418 had a timetable change just 6 weeks prior to its withdrawal to improve reliability!
I have been told the opposite. The 418 has never had a reliability issue, ok yes it left late a lot from Birmingham but just change timetable. Selwyns have created a pattern of cutting the routes they operate with lots of dead milage such as 417.
Yes 545 has just changed to cover telford and shrewsbury so I am shocked to see it change again.
The now 19:00 from Birmingham to Shrewsbury is an absolute mess, Haytons still operate the service as far as Wolverhampton then its transferring passengers onto a Travel Stars coach to do the Telford & Shrewsbury bit.
Whats even more of a mess is that the service only services Dudley, Bearwood, Fiveways, Walsall, Great Barr and perry barr in one direction from telford and shrewsbury.
So cleary this route change has been a complete mess
The 418 timetable was changed in June so that the return journey from London was scheduled to depart Birmingham at 1900 on weekdays instead of 1845. This was because 9 times out of 10 this service operated late when it was due to leave 1845 as it would be delayed on the way up from London. Ironically, with the summer holidays following the change it would have been able to run 'on time' to the old timetable for its remaining month.
From what I'm aware, the main idea behind the change was that the 418 & 545 were both loss making services. I'm not sure exactly how dead mileage comes into play with the NX contracting system but obviously the 418 was a double-manned service that outside of the peak holiday periods carried low loadings, especially between Shrewsbury & Wrexham. It is National Express who have cut the service, not Selwyns. As the 417 & 418 were both double-manned services I'd imagine these have higher running costs than other services, meaning they are more likely to be cut if they aren't paying.
The 545 between Birmingham & Stoke (in both directions) operated at virtually the same time as the 314 service, with often low numbers of customers boarding the northbound 545 service there. By re-routing it via Telford, Shrewsbury, Oswestry & Wrexham the 545 is able to take additional passengers, with running time to the other destinations not being too greatly increased and arguably improved reliability now it is now longer have to use the M6.
Customers travelling London-Stoke have the option of changing at Birmingham with the same journey time, or travelling on a slightly later 550 service that was re-routed to serve Stoke.
To maintain an early morning & evening link to/from the most popular 418 stops of Telford & Shrewsbury, a couple of 410s were extended from Wolverhampton. The timings of these meant that the SB journey is via Dudley, Bearwood & Five Ways and the NB journey via Perry Barr, Great Barr & Walsall. The aim of these extensions was not to provide a link from Walsall or Dudley to Telford/Shrewsbury - it is to continue to provide a link from London & Birmingham (and therefore other destinations via connecting services). Therefore, it is not worth messing around with the every 2 hour London - Dudley/Wolverhampton frequency.
There has been a balls up with the running of the 1600 410 ex London, whereby Travelstar are covering the service between Wolverhampton & Shrewsbury (using the vehicle off the 1305 210), with the current operator Haytons bringing the service as far as Wolverhampton. This is due to an oversight by National Express where the single-manned Haytons driver (which then overnights in Birmingham) does not have the hours to get to Shrewsbury. It is to my understanding this will be rectified in the coming days.
The oversight is that people in offices really need to get out on the network they are running and see how it actually happens rather than looking at a screen.
They do... And people that watch coaches going past them need to know the driver's hours regulations and economics behind running a coach service.
From railUKforums Thanks for re-posting my post, Winston :P
Quote
Yourbus have lost the 425/6/435/6 contracts to Go North East.
Also possible that the 591/4 will transfer as well.
Contracts and ops will have changed by end of September.
This will also affect a number of Yourbus services leaving VCS early morning.
0700 561 Bradford (Arr VCS 436 at 0550 from South Shields)
Replaced by the 425 which will leave VCS at 0700 and will omit Golders Green but direct Sheffield (1045), Meadowhall (1100), Leeds (1145-1215), Darlington (1335), Durham (1355) & Newcastle (1435).
This service replaces the GON 0930 425 to Newcastle as well.
0800 561 Bradford (Arr 0620 435 from Ashington)
0830 440 Derby (Arr 0620 594 from Edinburgh)
0900 591 Edinburgh (Arr 2035 previous evening - 1520 ex Bradford)
Quote from: the trainbasher on September 11, 2014, 02:29:48 PM
From railUKforums Thanks for re-posting my post, Winston :P
Quote
Yourbus have lost the 425/6/435/6 contracts to Go North East.
Also possible that the 591/4 will transfer as well.
Contracts and ops will have changed by end of September.
This will also affect a number of Yourbus services leaving VCS early morning.
0700 561 Bradford (Arr VCS 436 at 0550 from South Shields)
Replaced by the 425 which will leave VCS at 0700 and will omit Golders Green but direct Sheffield (1045), Meadowhall (1100), Leeds (1145-1215), Darlington (1335), Durham (1355) & Newcastle (1435).
This service replaces the GON 0930 425 to Newcastle as well.
0800 561 Bradford (Arr 0620 435 from Ashington)
0830 440 Derby (Arr 0620 594 from Edinburgh)
0900 591 Edinburgh (Arr 2035 previous evening - 1520 ex Bradford)
Seems Yourbus are going in the same direction as Flights NX work. Sadly Yourbus do not put out coaches in the best conditions every journey I have done with them the plug socket didn't work, ive even been where part of the toilet unit has been on the floor and the coaches are very un clean.
I hope this changes but I feel sorry for any regular drivers of the 425 as it has now gone from Classic, to Yourbus to Go ahead lots of change
Quote from: the trainbasher on September 11, 2014, 02:29:48 PM
From railUKforums Thanks for re-posting my post, Winston :P
No problems Winston :-P
Quote from: bwsau cymru on September 11, 2014, 10:27:28 PM
Quote from: the trainbasher on September 11, 2014, 02:29:48 PM
From railUKforums Thanks for re-posting my post, Winston :P
Quote
Yourbus have lost the 425/6/435/6 contracts to Go North East.
Also possible that the 591/4 will transfer as well.
Contracts and ops will have changed by end of September.
This will also affect a number of Yourbus services leaving VCS early morning.
0700 561 Bradford (Arr VCS 436 at 0550 from South Shields)
Replaced by the 425 which will leave VCS at 0700 and will omit Golders Green but direct Sheffield (1045), Meadowhall (1100), Leeds (1145-1215), Darlington (1335), Durham (1355) & Newcastle (1435).
This service replaces the GON 0930 425 to Newcastle as well.
0800 561 Bradford (Arr 0620 435 from Ashington)
0830 440 Derby (Arr 0620 594 from Edinburgh)
0900 591 Edinburgh (Arr 2035 previous evening - 1520 ex Bradford)
Seems Yourbus are going in the same direction as Flights NX work. Sadly Yourbus do not put out coaches in the best conditions every journey I have done with them the plug socket didn't work, ive even been where part of the toilet unit has been on the floor and the coaches are very un clean.
I hope this changes but I feel sorry for any regular drivers of the 425 as it has now gone from Classic, to Yourbus to Go ahead lots of change
GNE didn't have any plug sockets when I used their coaches...although I liked the seats compared to the current NX seat style!
GNE do have some older coaches that don't have the fainsa seats with plug sockets
Quote from: bwsau cymru on September 10, 2014, 09:21:54 PM
Quote from: notepanel on September 09, 2014, 11:24:37 PM
Quote from: bwsau cymru on September 09, 2014, 10:41:39 PM
Quote from: notepanel on September 09, 2014, 05:37:54 PM
Quote from: Ex BC driver on September 09, 2014, 03:52:18 PM
Quote from: Winston on September 09, 2014, 12:16:05 PM
PD0000738/241 - NATIONAL EXPRESS LTD, BIRMINGHAM COACH STATION, DIGBETH, BIRMINGHAM, B5 6DD
Variation Accepted: Operating between Pwellheli Bus Station, Maes and London Victoria Coach Stn given service number 545 effective from 20-Oct-2014. To amend Route, Stopping Places and Timetable.
Could be to do with the one Whittle operates
It only changed last week to operate via Telford, Shrewsbury, Oswestry & Wrexham, instead of Stoke, to replace the 418!
Having said that, the 418 had a timetable change just 6 weeks prior to its withdrawal to improve reliability!
I have been told the opposite. The 418 has never had a reliability issue, ok yes it left late a lot from Birmingham but just change timetable. Selwyns have created a pattern of cutting the routes they operate with lots of dead milage such as 417.
Yes 545 has just changed to cover telford and shrewsbury so I am shocked to see it change again.
The now 19:00 from Birmingham to Shrewsbury is an absolute mess, Haytons still operate the service as far as Wolverhampton then its transferring passengers onto a Travel Stars coach to do the Telford & Shrewsbury bit.
Whats even more of a mess is that the service only services Dudley, Bearwood, Fiveways, Walsall, Great Barr and perry barr in one direction from telford and shrewsbury.
So cleary this route change has been a complete mess
The 418 timetable was changed in June so that the return journey from London was scheduled to depart Birmingham at 1900 on weekdays instead of 1845. This was because 9 times out of 10 this service operated late when it was due to leave 1845 as it would be delayed on the way up from London. Ironically, with the summer holidays following the change it would have been able to run 'on time' to the old timetable for its remaining month.
From what I'm aware, the main idea behind the change was that the 418 & 545 were both loss making services. I'm not sure exactly how dead mileage comes into play with the NX contracting system but obviously the 418 was a double-manned service that outside of the peak holiday periods carried low loadings, especially between Shrewsbury & Wrexham. It is National Express who have cut the service, not Selwyns. As the 417 & 418 were both double-manned services I'd imagine these have higher running costs than other services, meaning they are more likely to be cut if they aren't paying.
The 545 between Birmingham & Stoke (in both directions) operated at virtually the same time as the 314 service, with often low numbers of customers boarding the northbound 545 service there. By re-routing it via Telford, Shrewsbury, Oswestry & Wrexham the 545 is able to take additional passengers, with running time to the other destinations not being too greatly increased and arguably improved reliability now it is now longer have to use the M6.
Customers travelling London-Stoke have the option of changing at Birmingham with the same journey time, or travelling on a slightly later 550 service that was re-routed to serve Stoke.
To maintain an early morning & evening link to/from the most popular 418 stops of Telford & Shrewsbury, a couple of 410s were extended from Wolverhampton. The timings of these meant that the SB journey is via Dudley, Bearwood & Five Ways and the NB journey via Perry Barr, Great Barr & Walsall. The aim of these extensions was not to provide a link from Walsall or Dudley to Telford/Shrewsbury - it is to continue to provide a link from London & Birmingham (and therefore other destinations via connecting services). Therefore, it is not worth messing around with the every 2 hour London - Dudley/Wolverhampton frequency.
There has been a balls up with the running of the 1600 410 ex London, whereby Travelstar are covering the service between Wolverhampton & Shrewsbury (using the vehicle off the 1305 210), with the current operator Haytons bringing the service as far as Wolverhampton. This is due to an oversight by National Express where the single-manned Haytons driver (which then overnights in Birmingham) does not have the hours to get to Shrewsbury. It is to my understanding this will be rectified in the coming days.
The oversight is that people in offices really need to get out on the network they are running and see how it actually happens rather than looking at a screen.
I believe that from tomorrow, DeCourcey will be operating the 1600 410 ex London right through to Shrewsbury (DeCourcey will be able to input another driver at Birmingham which will resolve the issues with driving hours).
Haytons will replace DeCourcey as operator of the 1630 420 ex London to Birmingham.
From looking at the National Express website, the change to the 545 in October appears to be relatively minor - it will no longer be calling at the very popular Welsh stops of Criccieth, Porthmadog, Tremadog & Penygroes. As a result the start time from Pwllheli is slightly amended. I assume the reason for this change is to increase the length between the days (it works out at nearly an extra 30 minutes rest per night) to ensure the driver gets the required legal daily rest if the service is slightly delayed.
Nash's Of Birmingham (Smethwick) TSV798 Was operating 1245 W12 From BCS-Wembley Stadium
are whittles still operating there nat express duties
Quote from: Ced on October 21, 2014, 08:45:11 AM
are whittles still operating there nat express duties
Yes they are.
when does winter timetable start please
what routes do whittles work on please , been meaning to ask for a while
Quote from: Ced on November 03, 2014, 10:32:54 PM
what routes do whittles work on please , been meaning to ask for a while
444 Worcester-London
409 Aberystwyth-London mixed in with a 410 back to Brum
545 Pwllheli-London.
Regards
New 4yr deal agreed with Wembley Stadium
http://www.bqlive.co.uk/2014/11/17/national-express-in-four-year-deal-with-wembley-stadium/
I got my first photo of a new style Levante today
http://wmbusphotos.com/NXContractors/SGBCBN64BKW.html
Quote from: Tony on December 30, 2014, 08:47:54 PM
I got my first photo of a new style Levante today
http://wmbusphotos.com/NXContractors/SGBCBN64BKW.html
They've achieved the unachievable-made the Levante uglier! ::) :P
Quote from: BN on November 04, 2014, 10:18:24 AM
Quote from: Ced on November 03, 2014, 10:32:54 PM
what routes do whittles work on please , been meaning to ask for a while
444 Worcester-London
409 Aberystwyth-London mixed in with a 410 back to Brum
545 Pwllheli-London.
Regards
when does the new contractor /contractors take over the running of these whittles routes please just wondered with the bus side closing tonight
Quote from: Ced on January 03, 2015, 04:43:10 PM
Quote from: BN on November 04, 2014, 10:18:24 AM
Quote from: Ced on November 03, 2014, 10:32:54 PM
what routes do whittles work on please , been meaning to ask for a while
444 Worcester-London
409 Aberystwyth-London mixed in with a 410 back to Brum
545 Pwllheli-London.
Regards
when does the new contractor /contractors take over the running of these whittles routes please just wondered with the bus side closing tonight
I thought Johnsons was keeping the Whittle garage and the NX contract... They bought the coach side, as we all know :-)
The NX contract is going to NXWM Walsall as was mentioned on here
Quote from: the trainbasher on January 03, 2015, 10:01:03 PM
The NX contract is going to NXWM Walsall as was mentioned on here
Quote from: the trainbasher on January 03, 2015, 10:01:03 PM
The NX contract is going to NXWM Walsall as was mentioned on here
am right in what I seam to remember this is taking place over this coming weekend of 10/111/15 are jus the national express liveried whittles coaches moving , as they have 2 07 reg levantes in whittles livery just wondered if those will be going as well as they will be odd ones out in the Johnson/new whittles fleet
Reays coaches of wigton cumbria covering the 240 from leeds today at 08:45 using 7pxg. This normally looks after accrington stanley and morecambe football clubs and runs on the sellafield contract
how often does a £400,000 vip team coach do national express, amazing looking machine!!!!
A new TV advert for NX coach travel is due to start at the end of the month.
http://www.thestar.co.uk/news/sheffield-coach-driver-dubbed-the-sean-bean-of-national-express-1-7168283
Travellers Choice B9R Jonckheere PO12GWP on 1300 NX341 from Birmingham-Southsea
Picture- https://www.flickr.com/photos/115199517@N06/16893476982/
Quote from: nxwmbusfan1999 on March 22, 2015, 01:31:52 PM
Travellers Choice B9R Jonckheere PO12GWP on 1300 NX341 from Birmingham-Southsea
I post picture later
Was that you photographing coaches leaving the coach station earlier?
Quote from: Ex BC driver on March 22, 2015, 07:09:23 PM
Was that you photographing coaches leaving the coach station earlier?
I was between 1140-1300
National Express SR62 B12B Levante For Sale
http://www.venturasales.co.uk/national-express-direct/volvo-b12b-caetano-levante-fj06-urg/
Edwards (Wales)
Have Ex NX SR113 and SR114
In (Cardiff-Bristol Airport Livery)
SR113- https://www.flickr.com/photos/115199517@N06/17032299492/
SR114- https://www.flickr.com/photos/115199517@N06/16846213980/
1125 NX325 Birmingham-Manchester
is FJ58AJV (Selwyns) in plain White livery
Picture- https://www.flickr.com/photos/115199517@N06/16880690869/
1300 NX341 Birmingham-Southsea is
PO12GWW Volvo Jonckheere (Travellers Choice)
Picture- https://www.flickr.com/photos/115199517@N06/16879109618/
Ex Whittles YX07HJJ on NX339 to birmingham
Picture- https://www.flickr.com/photos/115199517@N06/16859514207/
New NX coaches routes, do anyone know which sub-contractor will operate it?
PD0000738/321 - NATIONAL EXPRESS LTD, BIRMINGHAM COACH STATION, DIGBETH, BIRMINGHAM, B5 6DD
Registration Accepted
Starting Point: Birmingham Coach Station
Finish Point: Swansea Bus Station
Via: Ross on Wye, Newport, Cardiff
Service Number: 343
Service Type: Limited Stop
Effective Date: 15-JUN-2015
Other Details: Daily but not 25/26 December & 1 January
Quote from: Winston on April 24, 2015, 11:14:04 PM
New NX coaches routes, do anyone know which sub-contractor will operate it?
PD0000738/321 - NATIONAL EXPRESS LTD, BIRMINGHAM COACH STATION, DIGBETH, BIRMINGHAM, B5 6DD
Registration Accepted
Starting Point: Birmingham Coach Station
Finish Point: Swansea Bus Station
Via: Ross on Wye, Newport, Cardiff
Service Number: 343
Service Type: Limited Stop
Effective Date: 15-JUN-2015
Other Details: Daily but not 25/26 December & 1 January
Got to be Edwards I reckon.
Quote from: BN on April 25, 2015, 09:15:26 AM
Got to be Edwards I reckon.
Thanks BN, I guess it depends which end it is operated from DeCourcey is also a possibility, but they haven't had no new work for a while
Quote from: Winston on April 25, 2015, 12:26:52 PM
Thanks BN, I guess it depends which end it is operated from DeCourcey is also a possibility, but they haven't had no new work for a while
Very true Winston, I'm sure they would have bid for it.
NEL have sent me an up to date fleetlist correct as of today. I have updated the page on my website to match, this includes vehiucles still owned, but on loan to other operators
http://wmbusphotos.com/NXWM/fleetlist/coachfleet.html
Quote from: Tony on June 10, 2015, 09:11:46 PM
NEL have sent me an up to date fleetlist correct as of today. I have updated the page on my website to match, this includes vehiucles still owned, but on loan to other operators
http://wmbusphotos.com/NXWM/fleetlist/coachfleet.html
Tony, these 3 new additions appear to be missing from the latest fleetlist
New Alexander Dennis E20D 8.9m B29F Enviro 200 single deckers have been delivered for the new shuttle bus
contract for West London University at Brentford
SK15HBF ® 05/15, body no: E289/3, chassis no: SFD1D1AR6FGY14927
SK15HBG ® 05/15, body no: E289/4, chassis no: SFD1D1AR6FGY14928
SK15HBH ® 05/15, body no: E289/5, chassis no: SFD1D1AR6FGY14929
Info courtesy of Ian Rivett - London Transport Bus News
Ambassador FJ09DXA 206 is on 1245 NX305 Birmingham-Clacton-On-Sea
Quote from: nxwmbusfan1999 on June 28, 2015, 11:58:37 AM
Ambassador FJ09DXA 206 is on 1245 NX305 Birmingham-Clacton-On-Sea
It was on the 1245 308 to Great Yarmouth - an Ambassador working. Selwyns operated the 305 as usual with FJ61 EWF.
Yourbus B9R Levantes For Sale
http://hillscoachsales.com/coach-sales/wp_car_dealer/2011-volvo-b9r-caetano-levante/
Quote from: nxwmbusfan1999 on June 28, 2015, 06:32:11 PM
Yourbus B9R Levantes For Sale
http://hillscoachsales.com/coach-sales/wp_car_dealer/2011-volvo-b9r-caetano-levante/
The whole Yourbus fleet of 35 x Levante's formerly used on NX work are for sale:
http://catchyourbus.co.uk/aboutus/Resources/Fleet%20list%20for%20sale%20Fleetlist%20Fleetlist.pdf
1. PD0000738/244 - NATIONAL EXPRESS LTD, BIRMINGHAM COACH STATION, DIGBETH, BIRMINGHAM, B5 6DD
Cancellation Accepted: Operating between CAMBRIDGE and SOUTHPORT given service number 314 effective from 06-Sep-2015.
2. PD0000738/252 - NATIONAL EXPRESS LTD, BIRMINGHAM COACH STATION, DIGBETH, BIRMINGHAM, B5 6DD
Cancellation Accepted: Operating between SOUTHEND-ON-SEA and LIVERPOOL given service number 305 effective from 06-Sep-2015.
3. PD0000738/254 - NATIONAL EXPRESS LTD, BIRMINGHAM COACH STATION, DIGBETH, BIRMINGHAM, B5 6DD
Cancellation Accepted: Operating between GREAT YARMOUTH and BIRMINGHAM given service number 308 effective from 06-Sep-2015.
No idea which operator is due any new coaches, there was a new unregistered levante heading north on the M1 this morning
Quote from: Ex BC driver on August 10, 2015, 08:41:36 PM
No idea which operator is due any new coaches, there was a new unregistered levante heading north on the M1 this morning
Stands a chance it was on its way from the docks to Caetano at Worksop for preparation
Where is the best place to look to photograph 91/92/93/94 and what times please
@Tony
@RS Digbeth Coach Station
And they run on NX409 and NX545
409 comes about 1200 and leaves 1230 from digbeth
Also you might see one of ex Whittles (NX) levantes on them
For anyone interested:
PD0000738/146 - NATIONAL EXPRESS LTD, BIRMINGHAM COACH STATION, DIGBETH, BIRMINGHAM, B5 6DD
Variation Accepted: Operating between Burnley and Paignton given service number 341 effective from 04-Jan-2016. To amend Timetable.
PD0000738/148 - NATIONAL EXPRESS LTD, BIRMINGHAM COACH STATION, DIGBETH, BIRMINGHAM, B5 6DD
Variation Accepted: Operating between Blackpool and London Victoria given service number 421 effective from 04-Jan-2016. To amend Timetable.
PD0000738/166 - NATIONAL EXPRESS LTD, BIRMINGHAM COACH STATION, DIGBETH, BIRMINGHAM, B5 6DD
Variation Accepted: Operating between Nottingham and Penzance given service number 330 effective from 04-Jan-2016. To amend Timetable.
PD0000738/179 - NATIONAL EXPRESS LTD, BIRMINGHAM COACH STATION, DIGBETH, BIRMINGHAM, B5 6DD
Variation Accepted: Operating between Barnsley and London Victoria given service number 560 effective from 04-Jan-2016. To amend Timetable.
PD0000738/198 - NATIONAL EXPRESS LTD, BIRMINGHAM COACH STATION, DIGBETH, BIRMINGHAM, B5 6DD
Variation Accepted: Operating between WOLVERHAMPTON and GATWICK AIRPORT given service number 210 effective from 04-Jan-2016. To amend Route, Stopping Places and Timetable.
PD0000738/210 - NATIONAL EXPRESS LTD, BIRMINGHAM COACH STATION, DIGBETH, BIRMINGHAM, B5 6DD
Variation Accepted: Operating between Whitehaven and London, Victoria Coach Station given service number 570 effective from 04-Jan-2016. To amend Timetable.
PD0000738/222 - NATIONAL EXPRESS LTD, BIRMINGHAM COACH STATION, DIGBETH, BIRMINGHAM, B5 6DD
Variation Accepted: Operating between NORTHAMPTON and Bristol given service number 302 effective from 04-Jan-2016. To amend Timetable.
PD0000738/223 - NATIONAL EXPRESS LTD, BIRMINGHAM COACH STATION, DIGBETH, BIRMINGHAM, B5 6DD
Variation Accepted: Operating between BUDE and LONDON VICTORIA given service number 502 effective from 04-Jan-2016. To amend Route, Stopping Places and Timetable.
PD0000738/232 - NATIONAL EXPRESS LTD, BIRMINGHAM COACH STATION, DIGBETH, BIRMINGHAM, B5 6DD
Variation Accepted: Operating between STRATFORD UPON AVON, RIVERSIDE BUS STATION and LONDON, VICTORIA COACH STATION given service number 460 effective from 04-Jan-2016. To amend Route, Stopping Places and Timetable.
PD0000738/269 - NATIONAL EXPRESS LTD, BIRMINGHAM COACH STATION, DIGBETH, BIRMINGHAM, B5 6DD
Variation Accepted: Operating between Oxford and Stansted Airport given service number 737 effective from 04-Jan-2016. To amend Route, Stopping Places and Timetable.
PD0000738/270 - NATIONAL EXPRESS LTD, BIRMINGHAM COACH STATION, DIGBETH, BIRMINGHAM, B5 6DD
Variation Accepted: Operating between Hereford and London Victoria given service number 444 effective from 04-Jan-2016. To amend Timetable.
PD0000738/297 - NATIONAL EXPRESS LTD, BIRMINGHAM COACH STATION, DIGBETH, BIRMINGHAM, B5 6DD
Variation Accepted: Operating between Wolverhampton and London Victoria given service number 410 effective from 04-Jan-2016. To amend Route, Stopping Places and Timetable.
PD0000738/315 - NATIONAL EXPRESS LTD, BIRMINGHAM COACH STATION, DIGBETH, BIRMINGHAM, B5 6DD
Variation Accepted: Operating between Colne Bus Station and London Victoria given service number 540 effective from 04-Jan-2016. To amend Route, Stopping Places and Timetable.
PD0000738/316 - NATIONAL EXPRESS LTD, BIRMINGHAM COACH STATION, DIGBETH, BIRMINGHAM, B5 6DD
Variation Accepted: Operating between Whitehaven, Tangier Street and London, Victoria Coach Station given service number 571 effective from 04-Jan-2016. To amend Timetable.
If anyone is interested, Hotel Hoppa 8322 is currently being used at Stansted
Quote from: Ex BC driver on November 15, 2015, 06:09:30 AM
If anyone is interested, Hotel Hoppa 8322 is currently being used at Stansted
@Ex BC driver is that on the Stansted car park shuttles?
Quote from: Winston on November 15, 2015, 10:31:24 AM
@Ex BC driver is that on the Stansted car park shuttles?
Yes it was doing the staff shuttles in the early hours. Not sure what it would of done during the day as I had left by 7:45am
PD0000738/142 - NATIONAL EXPRESS LTD, BIRMINGHAM COACH STATION, DIGBETH, BIRMINGHAM, B5 6DD
Variation Accepted: Operating between Liverpool and Leeds given service number 060 effective from 15-Jan-2016. To amend Route, Stopping Places and Timetable.
PD0000738/147 - NATIONAL EXPRESS LTD, BIRMINGHAM COACH STATION, DIGBETH, BIRMINGHAM, B5 6DD
Variation Accepted: Operating between Liverpool and Clacton - on - Sea given service number 350 effective from 15-Jan-2016. To amend Route, Stopping Places and Timetable.
PD0000738/148 - NATIONAL EXPRESS LTD, BIRMINGHAM COACH STATION, DIGBETH, BIRMINGHAM, B5 6DD
Variation Accepted: Operating between Blackpool and London Victoria given service number 421 effective from 15-Jan-2016. To amend Route, Stopping Places and Timetable.
PD0000738/274 - NATIONAL EXPRESS LTD, BIRMINGHAM COACH STATION, DIGBETH, BIRMINGHAM, B5 6DD
Variation Accepted: Operating between Cardiff and Liverpool given service number 323 effective from 15-Jan-2016. To amend Route, Stopping Places and Timetable.
PD0000738/302 - NATIONAL EXPRESS LTD, BIRMINGHAM COACH STATION, DIGBETH, BIRMINGHAM, B5 6DD
Variation Accepted: Operating between Leeds Coach Station and Liverpool Coach Station given service number 061 effective from 15-Jan-2016. To amend Route, Stopping Places and Timetable.
PD0000738/312 - NATIONAL EXPRESS LTD, BIRMINGHAM COACH STATION, DIGBETH, BIRMINGHAM, B5 6DD
Variation Accepted: Operating between Liverpool Coach Station and Newcastle Upon Tyne Coach Station given service number 580 effective from 15-Jan-2016. To amend Route, Stopping Places and Timetable.
PD0000738/314 - NATIONAL EXPRESS LTD, BIRMINGHAM COACH STATION, DIGBETH, BIRMINGHAM, B5 6DD
Variation Accepted: Operating between Southport, Eastbank Street and London, Victoria given service number 550 effective from 15-Jan-2016. To amend Route, Stopping Places and Timetable.
PD0000738/315 - NATIONAL EXPRESS LTD, BIRMINGHAM COACH STATION, DIGBETH, BIRMINGHAM, B5 6DD
Variation Accepted: Operating between Colne Bus Station and London Victoria given service number 540 effective from 15-Jan-2016. To amend Route and Timetable.
National Express Coaches with details of their busiest days over Christmas and some other interesting events that have taken place on coaches.
http://www.nationalexpressgroup.com/media/news-across-the-group/2015/national-express-reveals-busiest-holiday-travel-days/
PD0000738/146 - NATIONAL EXPRESS LTD, BIRMINGHAM COACH STATION, DIGBETH, BIRMINGHAM, B5 6DD
Variation Accepted: Operating between Burnley and Paignton given service number 341 effective from 23-May-2016. To amend Route, Stopping Places and Timetable.
PD0000738/159 - NATIONAL EXPRESS LTD, BIRMINGHAM COACH STATION, DIGBETH, BIRMINGHAM, B5 6DD
Variation Accepted: Operating between Bradford and Poole given service number 310 effective from 23-May-2016. To amend Route, Stopping Places and Timetable.
PD0000738/207 - NATIONAL EXPRESS LTD, BIRMINGHAM COACH STATION, DIGBETH, BIRMINGHAM, B5 6DD
Variation Accepted: Operating between COVENTRY and INVERNESS, FARRALINE PARK BUS STATION given service number 538 effective from 23-May-2016. To amend Route and Timetable.
PD0000738/297 - NATIONAL EXPRESS LTD, BIRMINGHAM COACH STATION, DIGBETH, BIRMINGHAM, B5 6DD
Variation Accepted: Operating between Wolverhampton and London Victoria given service number 410 effective from 16-May-2016. To amend Timetable.
PD0000738/298 - NATIONAL EXPRESS LTD, BIRMINGHAM COACH STATION, DIGBETH, BIRMINGHAM, B5 6DD
Variation Accepted: Operating between Wolverhampton and London Victoria given service number 420 effective from 16-May-2016. To amend Timetable.
PD0000738/324 - NATIONAL EXPRESS LTD, BIRMINGHAM COACH STATION, DIGBETH, BIRMINGHAM, B5 6DD
Registration Accepted
Starting Point: Bradford Interchange
Finish Point: Birmingham Coach Station
Via: Leeds, Sheffield, Nottingham, Leicester & Coventry
Service Number: 311
Service Type: Limited Stop
Effective Date: 23-MAY-2016
Other Details: Daily (not 25 & 26 December or 1 January).
PD0000738/146 - NATIONAL EXPRESS LTD, BIRMINGHAM COACH STATION, DIGBETH, BIRMINGHAM, B5 6DD
Variation Accepted by SN: Operating between Burnley and Paignton given service number 341 effective from 01-May-2016. To amend Route and Timetable.
PD0000738/149 - NATIONAL EXPRESS LTD, BIRMINGHAM COACH STATION, DIGBETH, BIRMINGHAM, B5 6DD
Variation Accepted by SN: Operating between Burnley and London Victoria given service number 422 effective from 01-May-2016. To amend Route.
PD0000738/315 - NATIONAL EXPRESS LTD, BIRMINGHAM COACH STATION, DIGBETH, BIRMINGHAM, B5 6DD
Variation Accepted by SN: Operating between Colne Bus Station and London Victoria given service number 540 effective from 01-May-2016. To amend Route, Stopping Places and Timetable.
@Tony, is there any truth in the rumour that double decker coaches are to make a return to certain routes?
Quote from: Stuharris 6360 on June 28, 2016, 08:03:07 PM
@Tony, is there any truth in the rumour that double decker coaches are to make a return to certain routes?
I haven't heard that one
Ah right
@Tony ,the following was posted on London Transport Yahoo group a littlw earlier
"Info from a reliable source on NX Facebook Group that Deckers are to make
a return to NX Services later this year..
Already NX have made aaplication to Tfl for change of use of Vehicle to
14.2mt Double Deck for routes: A1, A3, A6, A7, A8 & A9..
Talks on the gripevine seem to surgest that they could be the new Caetano Invictus Decker Scania that Ulsterbus have just recently taken delivery off & that NX were interested in it whilst being built...
Also talk surgest that some Deckers might return to South West - London / London - Scotland Services with Parks as they were the last to operate deckers on NX..
Will be interesting to see what happens in the near future on this & what deckers do appear back on the Network....."
First of the new Scania / Caetano Invictus double deck coaches for NX Ops:
http://busandtrain.blogspot.co.uk/2016/09/new-deckers-for-national-express.html
I was down gatwick this morning, all the airlink vehicles I saw now have ofj logos and legal lettering. I never national express had sold this
Quote from: Ex BC driver on September 18, 2016, 09:10:53 PM
I was down gatwick this morning, all the airlink vehicles I saw now have ofj logos and legal lettering. I never national express had sold this
Me either
Judging by the appointment of OFJ Directors & resignation of NX Directors, the transfer of ownership took place 31st March 2016
https://beta.companieshouse.gov.uk/company/04774684/officers
8646 - https://www.flickr.com/photos/cicoach/28331158395/in/photolist-L8X7Yt-L8X7Gg-KawAmc
8653 - https://www.flickr.com/photos/brian-l-simmons/28969666943/in/photolist-L8X7Yt-L8X7Gg-KawAmc/
For those that haven't seen the photos on facebook of the new double deck Scania/Caetano that was at Digbeth today
http://wmbusphotos.com/NXWM/Coaches/C301.html
Only a few names I recognise on there. I left the nx coach network for a couple of months but don't seem to recall seeing any changes post March, it's only over the past couple of months I've seen the changes
Quote from: Winston on September 18, 2016, 09:22:34 PM
Me either
Judging by the appointment of OFJ Directors & resignation of NX Directors, the transfer of ownership took place 31st March 2016
https://beta.companieshouse.gov.uk/company/04774684/officers
8646 - https://www.flickr.com/photos/cicoach/28331158395/in/photolist-L8X7Yt-L8X7Gg-KawAmc
8653 - https://www.flickr.com/photos/brian-l-simmons/28969666943/in/photolist-L8X7Yt-L8X7Gg-KawAmc/
I managed to have a look around it and get a photo of me in the seat. Spoke to the engineers on board and gave my opinion
Quote from: Tony on September 19, 2016, 08:32:23 PM
For those that haven't seen the photos on facebook of the new double deck Scania/Caetano that was at Digbeth today
http://wmbusphotos.com/NXWM/Coaches/C301.html
Quote from: Ex BC driver on September 19, 2016, 09:44:22 PM
Only a few names I recognise on there. I left the nx coach network for a couple of months but don't seem to recall seeing any changes post March, it's only over the past couple of months I've seen the changes
It seems that OFJ have used the funds raised by selling their Heathrow Ops to Rotala to buy Airlinks off NX Group
Quote from: Ex BC driver on September 19, 2016, 09:44:22 PM
Only a few names I recognise on there. I left the nx coach network for a couple of months but don't seem to recall seeing any changes post March, it's only over the past couple of months I've seen the changes
From the Companies House overview looks like the takeover was 27th April 2016
Previous company names
Name Period
AIRLINKS AIRPORT SERVICES LIMITED 22 May 2003 - 27 Apr 2016
Details of the latest new coaches for National Express are
Double decks
CD01 BV66WPJ Sca 1899246 Co F163045001
CD02 BV66WPK Sca 1899249 Co F163045002
CD03 BV66WPL Sca 1899245 Co F163045003
CD04 BV66WPM Sca 1899235 Co F163045004
CD05 BV66WPN Sca 1899254 Co F163045005
CD06 BV66WPO Sca 1899260 Co F163045006
Tri-Axle Single decks at Luton
LA214 BV66WOM Vo 179351 Co F163043075
LA215 BV66WOR Vo 179542 Co F163043076
LA216 BV66WOU Vo 179545 Co F163043077
Quote from: Tony on October 27, 2016, 10:10:07 AM
Details of the latest new coaches for National Express are
Double decks
CD01 BV66WPJ Sca 1899246 Co F163045001
CD02 BV66WPK Sca 1899249 Co F163045002
CD03 BV66WPL Sca 1899245 Co F163045003
CD04 BV66WPM Sca 1899235 Co F163045004
CD05 BV66WPN Sca 1899254 Co F163045005
CD06 BV66WPO Sca 1899260 Co F163045006
Tri-Axle Single decks at Luton
LA214 BV66WOM Vo 179351 Co F163043075
LA215 BV66WOR Vo 179542 Co F163043076
LA216 BV66WOU Vo 179545 Co F163043077
Which DD has gone to Edwards? Also what route will they use the DD's on?
Quote from: BN on October 27, 2016, 10:52:55 AM
Which DD has gone to Edwards? Also what route will they use the DD's on?
RouteOne quotes they are for the A1 (which in obviously London - Luton), but also quotes the A1 as running London - Stansted
http://www.route-one.net/articles/Coach%20routes/National_Express_dips_toe_in_double_decker_coach_market
Quote from: BN on October 27, 2016, 10:52:55 AM
Which DD has gone to Edwards? Also what route will they use the DD's on?
They are for the A1 to Luton CBW got it right.
Not sure which one is going to Edwards, but in the publicity shot of all 6 CD01 is the one without the Easybus sticker, so is possibly the choice
On Saturday 15th October 2016 I noted SH212 BX16CMY Scania K410EB6 Caetano Levante C56FLT in Victoria Street.
Tony,
Doing a internet search for BX16CMY I discovered this page http://www.ukbuses.co.uk/fleet/nationalexpress.pdf which lists a few more Scania's at Start Hill that are missing from your site.
Ian Hardy
Quote from: Tony on October 27, 2016, 12:59:22 PM
They are for the A1 to Luton CBW got it right.
Not sure which one is going to Edwards, but in the publicity shot of all 6 CD01 is the one without the Easybus sticker, so is possibly the choice
Confirmed elsewhere CD01 is going to Edwards, their seating configuration is CH63/16Dt & NX have named them Caetano 'Boa Vista' as opposed to Caetano's name of 'Invictus'
Quote from: Winston on October 29, 2016, 11:20:33 AM
Confirmed elsewhere CD01 is going to Edwards, their seating configuration is CH63/16Dt & NX have named them Caetano 'Boa Vista' as opposed to Caetano's name of 'Invictus'
Just seen a photo of CD06 at Edwards
Quote from: Tony on October 29, 2016, 03:59:02 PM
Just seen a photo of CD06 at Edwards
I've found one of CD06 @ Edwards:
https://www.flickr.com/photos/davidsbusphotos/30384289190/
CD01/CD06 must of had the Easybus stickers applied the wrong way around
The last one of the Harry Shaw NX coaches making up the batch have now been returned to NX to place in there own fleet.
Latest additions to the in house fleet are
LA214 - BX65 WCW
LA215 - BX65 WCP
SH216 - BX65 WCU
SH217 - BX65 WCO
SH218 - BX65 WCR
SH219 - BX65 WCV
SH220 - BX65 WDJ
LA221 - BV66 WOM (originally allocated LA214)
LA222 - BV66 WOR (originally allocated LA215)
LA223 - BV66 WOU (originally allocated LA216)
SH224 - BX65 WCT
SH225 - BV66 WRC (Sca K440 1900391/Co F163043086)
Quote from: Tony on January 27, 2017, 09:26:56 AM
Latest additions to the in house fleet are
LA214 - BX65 WCW
LA215 - BX65 WCP
SH216 - BX65 WCU
SH217 - BX65 WCO
SH218 - BX65 WCR
SH219 - BX65 WCV
SH220 - BX65 WDJ
LA221 - BV66 WOM (originally allocated LA214)
LA222 - BV66 WOR (originally allocated LA215)
LA223 - BV66 WOU (originally allocated LA216)
SH224 - BX65 WCT
SH225 - BV66 WRC (Sca K440 1900391/Co F163043086)
Have Harry Shaw lost some NX diagrams?
Will there be any change to WA's NX requirements from Feb? As I notice the 385 & 545 are being withdrawn and combined to form new service 555
Quote from: Winston on January 27, 2017, 10:18:29 AM
Have Epsom Coaches & Harry Shaw lost some NX diagrams?
Will there be any change to WA's NX requirements from Feb? As I notice the 385 & 545 are being withdrawn and combined to form new service 555
Wnston,
Harry Shawa haven't run Nat Ex since 7th Dec. Unfortunately they lost there diagrams. All coaches were handed over to Nat Ex.
Quote from: BN on January 27, 2017, 01:34:19 PM
Wnston,
Harry Shawa haven't run Nat Ex since 7th Dec. Unfortunately they lost there diagrams. All coaches were handed over to Nat Ex.
Thanks BN, wasn't aware of that.
I assume NX have taken the 230 in house?
Did Harry Shaw operate anything in additiona to the 230?
Quote from: Winston on January 27, 2017, 02:02:33 PM
Thanks BN, wasn't aware of that.
I assume NX have taken the 230 in house?
Did Harry Shaw operate anything in additiona to the 230?
230 Was won by Chalfonts, I believe Harry Shaw only did the 230.
Quote from: Winston on January 27, 2017, 02:02:33 PM
Thanks BN, wasn't aware of that.
I assume NX have taken the 230 in house?
Did Harry Shaw operate anything in additiona to the 230?
230 went back to Chalfont at Northampton
Quote from: Tony on January 27, 2017, 02:10:27 PM
230 went back to Chalfont at Northampton
I take it that Chalfont have had 8 x new NX spec coaches recently delivered to operate the 230?
I assume the 8 ex Harry Shaw 65 plate tri-axles taken in to NX Ops are for fleet replacement
Useful link on the Sheffield Omnibus Enthusiast Society (SOES) website showing which operator runs each NX route. Updated Jan 2017
http://nebula.wsimg.com/f15e3a68c0c370cac25348e2e7e22368?AccessKeyId=8B7A174C4DD908996CD8&disposition=0&alloworigin=1 (http://nebula.wsimg.com/f15e3a68c0c370cac25348e2e7e22368?AccessKeyId=8B7A174C4DD908996CD8&disposition=0&alloworigin=1)
@LozJ - Thanks for posting that, really useful! Winston
Edwards Coaches have again won NX Coaches 'Large Operator of the Year' for 2017 plus various other NX awards
http://www.ponty.net/edwards-coaches-win-gold-again
They will also be significantly expanding NX work from April, when they takeover the lion's share of South Gloucester Bus & Coach NX diagrams and open a new depot in Avonmouth. To service the new NX diagrams they will have a fleet of 22 x Caetano Boa Vista double deck coaches (this may include the one the already have plus the 5 currently with NX Op's at Luton that work the A1 which are also now expected to transfer to Edwards and 22 x Tri-axle Caetano single deckers.
Edwards Avonmouth fleet info courtesy of Oxford & Chiltern bus page:
http://www.oxford-chiltern-bus-page.co.uk/Main%20101.html
Details of the latest batch of National Express Levantes are
LA226 BV17 GRF Vo 182189 Co F163043090
LA227 BV17 GRK Vo 182191 Co F163043091
LA228 BV17 GRU Vo 182218 Co F163043092
LA229 BV17 GRX Vo 182220 Co F163043093
LA230 BV17 GRZ Vo 182222 Co F163043094
LA231 BV17 GSO Vo 182224 Co F163043095
Just followed former NX Leveante FJ11MKC last with Wheelers as WC59WTL in Lichfield on the back if a low loader with severe rear fire damage
NX Coaches have today launched a new A2 route between Luton Airport & Central London significantly increasing their number of daily services:
http://www.nationalexpressgroup.com/newsmedia/news-across-the-group/2017/new-airport-route-takes-off-in-time-for-summer/
How come silverdale from Nottingham run 387 service as it miles from Coventry
I presume they put a tender in and won it.
As of the 1st of August. Skills/Silverdale have come off the following. 330 Nottingham -Penzance. 337 Rugby -Paignton. 310 Bradford -Southsea. 310 Poole -Bradford. They ran a dupe 440 service to London the other day then we're sent to dupe a London -Glasgow service!.
BV67JXT was seen yesterday on the M6 at Walsall heading south.
Quote from: midlandred2003 on September 05, 2017, 01:07:36 PM
BV67JXT was seen yesterday on the M6 at Walsall heading south.
That's one of 3 new tri-axles for Selwyn's for the 212.
NX have launched the Levante III today:
https://cbwmagazine.com/national-express-unveils-caetano-levante-iii/
Parks are taking 17 x B11R 6 x 2 specification vehicles, which are destined for National Express work during the first half of 2018
http://www.volvobuses.co.uk/en-gb/news/2017/nov/parks-of-hamilton-confirms-record-order-for-volvo.html
Quote from: Winston on November 22, 2017, 12:08:12 AM
Parks are taking 17 x B11R 6 x 2 specification vehicles, which are destined for National Express work during the first half of 2018
http://www.volvobuses.co.uk/en-gb/news/2017/nov/parks-of-hamilton-confirms-record-order-for-volvo.html
Interestingly, it didn't mention that the 17 B11RTs will have Levante bodywork...
Quote from: dave47549 (no longer NEL111P) on November 22, 2017, 10:25:58 AM
Interestingly, it didn't mention that the 17 B11RTs will have Levante bodywork...
I believe they are Levante 3s unusually for Parks
Quote from: Tony on November 22, 2017, 10:28:22 AM
I believe they are Levante 3s unusually for Parks
Will 17 replace the Plymouth fleet or Scottish aswell? Lost track on numbers on NX work
Quote from: Winston on November 22, 2017, 08:16:19 PM
Will 17 replace the Plymouth fleet or Scottish aswell? Lost track on numbers on NX work
Not enough to replace their entire NX fleet (well, not the last time I counted). They've 16 11/12 vintage two-axles (23 two-axles in total) & 15 tri axles, take your pick!
Quote from: dave47549 (no longer NEL111P) on November 26, 2017, 10:49:07 PM
Not enough to replace their entire NX fleet (well, not the last time I counted). They've 16 11/12 vintage two-axles (23 two-axles in total) & 15 tri axles, take your pick!
Ta! Didn't realize they had that many coaches of NX work. I assume the new order will replace the Plymouth based tri-axle fleet
NX are leaving the Eurolines organisations & instead will be partnering with Ouibus (a French SCNF owned coach company) from Jan 2018 for European destinations:
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10160269421350112&set=gm.702430749965648&type=3&theater&ifg=1
Ouibus:
https://www.ouibus.com/
Quote from: MW on January 17, 2018, 09:54:09 PM
Imagine BC somehow became the only garage without standard buses. Standard as in Crimson/Red & White. So Platinums, Hybrids, Electric and maybe even coaches lol.
BC have operated coaches before, 10 x 55 plate Scania Irizar PB's in NX colours to be precise.
Quote from: Winston on January 17, 2018, 10:03:24 PM
BC have operated coaches before, 10 x 55 plate Scania Irizar PB's in NX colours to be precise.
Oh have they? I'm guessing that was ages ago before the new NX logos? The oldest NX coaches I've seen in recent years are FJ58/09 Levantes, and those are rare. My coach knowledge is poor lol, I don't know who operates what.
Quote from: MW on January 17, 2018, 10:11:21 PM
Oh have they? I'm guessing that was ages ago before the new NX logos? The oldest NX coaches I've seen in recent years are FJ58/09 Levantes, and those are rare. My coach knowledge is poor lol, I don't know who operates what.
January 2006 till June 2007.
http://wmbusphotos.com/NXWM/5001-9959/C002.html
Quote from: MW on January 17, 2018, 10:11:21 PM
Oh have they? I'm guessing that was ages ago before the new NX logos? The oldest NX coaches I've seen in recent years are FJ58/09 Levantes, and those are rare. My coach knowledge is poor lol, I don't know who operates what.
Veolia took over operation of all Birmingham based NX coaches from TWM & Birmingham Coach Company etc, it's pretty much what DeCourcey still operate to this day from Miller St.
You shouldn't really see anything older than 7 years old on the NX network, unless a spare or dupe
Quote from: Winston on January 17, 2018, 10:20:15 PM
Veolia took over operation of all Birmingham based NX coaches from TWM & Birmingham Coach Company etc, it's pretty much what DeCourcey still operate to this day from Miller St.
You shouldn't really see anything older than 7 years old on the NX network, unless a spare or dupe
I've got a bit of a question. I know it's the wrong thread but we'll get back on topic soon.
Without sounding ignorant/stupid (hopefully), what happens to these ex NX coaches. The vast majority of coaches you see around are fairly new. Before the Levante, the Irizar was pretty much THE standard coach at NX minus, the vast majority anyway, but I feel like I don't see many ex NX coaches, I.e Irizars around compared to coaches like Van Hool or Plaxton ones, bearing in mind the vast quantity they would have had running on the network at the time. I'm not sure if I'm being clear what what I'm trying to say is the afterlife & second hand market doesn't seem to be filled with Irizars, so where do these go? Are many exported? Maybe I'm looking in the wrong places, I don't know. I don't actively go looking for used coach sales but I've looked for used buses in the past and most bus dealers do coaches aswell and I basically haven't seen many Irizars for sale and with indepedants.
I know I could have orchestrated the above paragraph better and said what I'm trying to say simpler, but I've had a long day lol
Sorry I've just read that above message and realised how many mistakes I've made. Bloody hell I should get some sleep.
Quote from: MW on January 17, 2018, 10:27:27 PM
I've got a bit of a question. I know it's the wrong thread but we'll get back on topic soon.
Without sounding ignorant/stupid (hopefully), what happens to these ex NX coaches. The vast majority of coaches you see around are fairly new. Before the Levante, the Irizar was pretty much THE standard coach at NX minus, the vast majority anyway, but I feel like I don't see many ex NX coaches, I.e Irizars around compared to coaches like Van Hool or Plaxton ones, bearing in mind the vast quantity they would have had running on the network at the time. I'm not sure if I'm being clear what what I'm trying to say is the afterlife & second hand market doesn't seem to be filled with Irizars, so where do these go? Are many exported? Maybe I'm looking in the wrong places, I don't know. I don't actively go looking for used coach sales but I've looked for used buses in the past and most bus dealers do coaches aswell and I basically haven't seen many Irizars for sale and with indepedants.
I know I could have orchestrated the above paragraph better and said what I'm trying to say simpler, but I've had a long day lol
Problem solved, I've merge it with NX coaches thread.
They either stay with their current operators & get repainted in to fleet colours for Private Hires / Tours work standard coach work or they get sold or returned off lease. Or some can be upseated to 3 + 2 to make 70 seat school buses.
Thandi had some of the Scania/Irizars on their own Express routes:
https://www.flickr.com/photos/alanhughes/16637355133
https://www.flickr.com/photos/dd67773/8438363646
DeCourcey have 101 to 124 all ex NX coaches on JLR work:
http://wmbusphotos.com/DeCourcey/fleetlist.html
Yeoman's:
https://www.flickr.com/photos/eybusman/9259046620
Edwards:
https://www.flickr.com/photos/67893901@N07/38725482634
Ex DeCourcey 11 plate Levante's:
https://procterscoachandbussales.com/listings/2011-caetano-levante-48-seat-exec-dda-coaches/
NX Coach Sales often listed on here:
http://hillscoachsales.com/coach-sales/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Vehicle-Availability-Interactive-Definitive.pdf
http://www.drewwilson.co.uk/listings/2013-volvo-b9r-caetano-levante/
http://www.drewwilson.co.uk/listings/2008-scania-k340-caetano-levante-triaxle/
http://plaxtoncoachsales.co.uk/vehicle/sg60khp-2011-plaxton-elite-volvo-b9r
Jobs going for coach drivers on a London-Paris run
https://www.nationalexpress.jobs/jobs/vacancy/coach-driver---london-to-paris-dr00225/2321/description/
Weymouth : Marks?
https://www.flickr.com/gp/92409298@N06/uEksG4
Must be a load of schoolkids around!
Quote from: JoNi on March 11, 2018, 01:52:51 PM
Weymouth : Marks?
https://www.flickr.com/gp/92409298@N06/uEksG4
Must be a load of schoolkids around!
I'm not entirely sure why it can't just state "Weymouth". I'm pretty sure all NX Weymouth services terminate outside Marks & Spencers.
I'm not sure where to post this, but this is one working that may interest a few people...A photo has been posted on the West Midlands Transport Facebook group of Edwards Boa Vista BU18 OTB on the northbound 330 today from Penzance to Nottingham. It should operate the southbound 330 tomorrow if it isn't swapped. If anyone wants to photograph it, the coach should be in Digbeth Coach Station between 10:05-11:00 tomorrow morning.
Quote from: Michael Bevan on June 28, 2018, 08:33:07 PM
I'm not sure where to post this, but this is one working that may interest a few people...A photo has been posted on the West Midlands Transport Facebook group of Edwards Boa Vista BU18 OTB on the northbound 330 today from Penzance to Nottingham. It should operate the southbound 330 tomorrow if it isn't swapped. If anyone wants to photograph it, the coach should be in Digbeth Coach Station between 10:05-11:00 tomorrow morning.
a post on Facebook says don't think it will be a decker
Quote from: Solo1 on June 28, 2018, 09:54:21 PM
a post on Facebook says don't think it will be a decker
It's been stated in a comment by someone who works for NX that it'll either be swapped tonight, or tomorrow in Bristol.
First of the Levante 3's are entering service with Edwards, BU18OTE:
https://www.flickr.com/photos/sidthedogsdad/29412102638
I noticed the 504 destination displays haven't been updated and still were showing via St Ives on the coach that was operating the 06:50 from Camborne to London on Wednesday morning.
Does anyone know why it no longer serves St Ives as it was still serving it last year. Is it something to do with the signs at the bus station that have also been put up in the last year?
"Kernow Buses Only
Maximum 2 Buses at any time
All other vehicles are prohibited
CCTV and Enforcement In Operation"?
Probably it just wasn't carrying enough passengers to serve St Ives. If it was a viable town to serve then I am sure an alternative stop would have been used in the town even if the bus station couldn't be used.
Quote from: D10 on August 12, 2018, 08:52:58 PM
Probably it just wasn't carrying enough passengers to serve St Ives. If it was a viable town to serve then I am sure an alternative stop would have been used in the town even if the bus station couldn't be used.
Could be that there isn't anywhere suitable in the town? Can't see any alternative stop in the town where it'd be suitable to turn a coach round. Some coaches operating on private hires seem to struggle getting round the narrow roads.
As it does stop at St Erth now and other than train connections to St Ives there's nothing at St Erth? Or could it be it took to much time going into the town for the number of people using it, so its easier to stop at St Erth (where there are trains to St Ives) on the way to Penzance rather than going into ST Ives?
Levante III BU18OTL has just left Bristol for Swansea on the 201 service, covering for an earlier breakdown.
Any Levante III spotters, BU18 OTH is doing the 337 to Rugby at 1600 from Bristol, calls in at Gloucester, Cheltenham, Eveshan, Bidford, Stratford, Warwick, Leamington and Coventry on the way.
Sorry couldn't catch the reg but one of Edward's new Levante III is currently parked at Digbeth waiting to do the 1500 hours 528 to Haverfordwest.
There is a 410 broken down on the entry slip road onto the A40 towards London coming off Target Roundabout
Quote from: D10 on September 23, 2018, 02:05:33 PM
Sorry couldn't catch the reg but one of Edward's new Levante III is currently parked at Digbeth waiting to do the 1500 hours 528 to Haverfordwest.
Another today..
This time it's the 1400 departure to Rochdale
Super rare working today as the Bristol to Penzance leg of the 330 service is being operated by decker BV66WPL.
It is expected to be swapped off tomorrow so probably won't make it to the Midlands, however if it is does go to make it up, I will post again
A rare working to keep an eye out for today is EYMS YY63OEO on loan to Go Northern, operating the 530 service towards Paignton. Due into Birmingham at 14:35, due out at 15:00.
Apparently Stansted have had 5 enviro 200s from Abellio London is this true
Quote from: I love Walsall buses on January 14, 2019, 09:37:03 PM
Apparently Stansted have had 5 enviro 200s from Abellio London is this true
Yes, see Tony's NXWM Fleetlist 876-880 (been there since August last year).
Caetano Boa Vista decker BU18OTB is currently make a super rare appearance heading southbound on the M5 just past Exeter towards Penzance via Plymouth on the 330 service, if anyone knows any Southern Spotters, they might be keen to get out and snap this one!
It will return Northbound tomorrow, but I'm expecting it to be taken off again at Bristol, but if it does manage to make it further north to Nottingham via Birmingham, I will post again.
Another rare Boa Vista working today, as Edwards Bristol BV66WPL has made it across the drink and into Wales partially covering on the Edwards Wales 202 service which failed at Heathrow earlier on. It commenced from Bristol and is definitely going as far as Cardiff. I'm not 100% sure on whether or not it will continue on to Swansea or if Edwards will input another vehicle to continue on from there, as the driver was told to take it to Cardiff.
NX have quietly introduced their own on-demand travel website branded 'Neon' (similar to Vamooz), there doesn't appear to be an app for it yet, I'd not heard of it up until recently, not sure if/where it's currently being marketed. Most of the trips seem to centre around music events / concerts at present:
https://getneon.co.uk/
I was on the 339 today, between Bristol and Leicester, and the coach from Westward Ho! swapped with BV17 GUD.
However according to both bustimes.org and the national express live tracker, the same bus which was swapped at Bristol was running a 339 but running around 2hrs late. My coach was defo running at Leicester though.
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on August 21, 2019, 07:16:09 PM
I was on the 339 today, between Bristol and Leicester, and the coach from Westward Ho! swapped with BV17 GUD.
However according to both bustimes.org and the national express live tracker, the same bus which was swapped at Bristol was running a 339 but running around 2hrs late. My coach was defo running at Leicester though.
Hence why we tell people not to quote workings of trackers
One of EYMS' Levante IIIs have received a full-body wrap for the winning design in their 'Driving Design' competition. From what I can make out in the photographs, it appears to be number 3 (BF68 LCX).
https://www.nationalexpress.com/en/blog/driving-design-winner-revealed
What are drivers legal hours before requiring a break? Also how long does this break have to be?
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on August 21, 2019, 11:50:28 PM
What are drivers legal hours before requiring a break? Also how long does this break have to be?
4.5 hours max driving time and then a 45 minute uninterrupted break has to be recorded on the tacho. There is scope for this to be split into a 15 and 30 (has to be in this order). The driver can take it as a passenger onboard, hence some services being dual-crewed.
For example, as the 333 service (Blackpool to Bournemouth) currently works, the coach is shunted to Sandbach services where the main drivers then take over, they drive the service to Birmingham then have a 15 min recorded break, then proceed on to Bristol where they then have the remaining 30 minutes. This then clears the clock and gives them a full 4.5 hours to make Bournemouth.
Drivers can only drive for 9 hours in a day, but this can be extended to 10 hours no more than twice in a week.
Idling does not count towards the 4.5 hours, something I used to wrongly assume did count.
Drivers are still able to drive company cars and vans outside of the above
An example of this is the 302 Bristol to Northampton service. The coach comes off the 200 service from Gatwick then goes to the yard to be cleaned, toilet dropped, fuelled etc.
The service is incredibly tight for driving time and with the already racked up driving time from the yard, is impossible to complete. So it's worked like this:
- 302 driver takes the coach to Bristol Coach Station
- 302 driver then drives a company van to Bath Bus Station and waits there
- Driver who arrives off the 339 from Grimsby has a 45 break
- Ex-339 driver then shunts the 302 coach in service between Bristol and Bath
- 302 driver takes on 302 coach for the rest of the journey
- 339 driver goes direct to the yard with the company van
I hope this helps!
Is the 409 (London - Aberystwyth) now worked with a Levante 3. Saw one in Telford last night for the first time on the 409.
Does anyone know what services does the new double decker coaches operate on?
Quote from: Busboy105 on August 25, 2019, 06:05:00 PM
Does anyone know what services does the new double decker coaches operate on?
They defo work the 040 between Bristol and London
Quote from: Ally on August 25, 2019, 10:35:06 AM
4.5 hours max driving time and then a 45 minute uninterrupted break has to be recorded on the tacho. There is scope for this to be split into a 15 and 30 (has to be in this order). The driver can take it as a passenger onboard, hence some services being dual-crewed.
For example, as the 333 service (Blackpool to Bournemouth) currently works, the coach is shunted to Sandbach services where the main drivers then take over, they drive the service to Birmingham then have a 15 min recorded break, then proceed on to Bristol where they then have the remaining 30 minutes. This then clears the clock and gives them a full 4.5 hours to make Bournemouth.
Drivers can only drive for 9 hours in a day, but this can be extended to 10 hours no more than twice in a week.
Idling does not count towards the 4.5 hours, something I used to wrongly assume did count.
Drivers are still able to drive company cars and vans outside of the above
An example of this is the 302 Bristol to Northampton service. The coach comes off the 200 service from Gatwick then goes to the yard to be cleaned, toilet dropped, fuelled etc.
The service is incredibly tight for driving time and with the already racked up driving time from the yard, is impossible to complete. So it's worked like this:
- 302 driver takes the coach to Bristol Coach Station
- 302 driver then drives a company van to Bath Bus Station and waits there
- Driver who arrives off the 339 from Grimsby has a 45 break
- Ex-339 driver then shunts the 302 coach in service between Bristol and Bath
- 302 driver takes on 302 coach for the rest of the journey
- 339 driver goes direct to the yard with the company van
I hope this helps!
That's interesting.
The 339 towards Grimsby has a 25-35 min break in Bristol, a 40 min break in Birmingham, and a 45 min break in Leicester, so I don't see the logic for that in the 339's case.
Quote from: Busboy105 on August 25, 2019, 06:05:00 PM
Does anyone know what services does the new double decker coaches operate on?
509 (Cardiff - London) and A1 (Victoria - Luton Airport).
Quote from: NXWMFAN1105 on August 25, 2019, 06:47:56 PM
509 (Cardiff - London) and A1 (Victoria - Luton Airport).
You won'r see any on the A1, they are all with Edwards, so only run on Edwards routes
Quote from: Tony on August 25, 2019, 07:10:40 PM
You won'r see any on the A1, they are all with Edwards, so only run on Edwards routes
But they have made an appearance on the A1 before.
How many double deckers do NX coaches have? Is there a reason as to why they are allocated to those routes?
Quote from: Busboy105 on August 25, 2019, 08:31:27 PM
How many double deckers do NX coaches have? Is there a reason as to why they are allocated to those routes?
At a guess, maybe the demand on those routes warrants them...?
Quote from: NXWMFAN1105 on August 25, 2019, 07:37:24 PM
But they have made an appearance on the A1 before.
5 of the double deckers were originally operated by NX directly on the A1, with the sixth hired to Edwards.
A period of time later they were all moved to Edwards.
Quote from: CL on August 21, 2019, 09:10:11 PM
One of EYMS' Levante IIIs have received a full-body wrap for the winning design in their 'Driving Design' competition. From what I can make out in the photographs, it appears to be number 3 (BF68 LCX).
https://www.nationalexpress.com/en/blog/driving-design-winner-revealed
*not a full body wrap* has only been done on the nearside..
Currently sat in Digbeth with a 322 service for Swansea. Departing 1300.
Levante III BU18OTE appears to have expired in Lichfield Bus Station, bonnet up when I passed a few minutes ago.
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on August 25, 2019, 06:17:21 PM
That's interesting.
The 339 towards Grimsby has a 25-35 min break in Bristol, a 40 min break in Birmingham, and a 45 min break in Leicester, so I don't see the logic for that in the 339's case.
The Northern half of the 330 and the Southern half of the 339 have driver interworking.
The driver that comes down from Nottingham on the 330 will take over the 339 service from Sedgemoor Services down to Westward Ho! (the 339 is shunted between Bristol and Sedgemoor by the driver arriving into Bristol at 14:30 on the 040 service). The 339 will then be driven up to Bristol from Westward Ho! the next morning where the coach and drivers change, the old 339 will go to the depot, get "turned round" then will come back down to the station to take up the Northern half of the 330 service again.
The Northern 339 driver would for example then be able to have a 15 in Bristol, a 30 in Birmingham and a 45 in Leicester.
Quote from: tphi12000 on August 30, 2019, 07:22:59 PM
Levante III BU18OTE appears to have expired in Lichfield Bus Station, bonnet up when I passed a few minutes ago.
It was a waste of time me mopping its soiled floor this morning then ::)
Quote from: Busboy105 on August 25, 2019, 06:05:00 PM
Does anyone know what services does the new double decker coaches operate on?
Usually the 040 which runs between Bristol and London. Some journeys run beyond Bristol to serve Weston-super-Mare.
Quote from: markcf83 on August 31, 2019, 02:27:37 PM
Usually the 040 which runs between Bristol and London. Some journeys run beyond Bristol to serve Weston-super-Mare.
One recently made it out onto the 200 service Bristol - Reading - Heathrow - Gatwick, thankfully with low passenger numbers so the luggage wasn't a nightmare to load. I thought the driver was having a laugh when he pulled in to the station with it on the destination!
They sometimes end up allocated to the 401/403 services if they're short on vehicles and they've been out on the 330 a few times. I've also known the 201 and 202 services to be covered by them after breakdowns. But indeed as everyone has pointed out, the 040 service is the mainstay of these!
Looks as though Flixbus will soon be entering the UK coach market, I assume it will result in increased competition for NX coaches, could get interesting depending on Flixbus aspirations:
https://www.railforums.co.uk/threads/flixbus-to-enter-uk-coach-market.191981/#post-4201867
Edwards Boa Vista BU18 OTC is on the Rugby bound 337 today.
Lots of timetable changes coming from February 10 including a shake-up of some long-established service patterns to and from the West Midlands.
Most of the service 210/212 journeys between Birmingham and Heathrow/Gatwick will serve Oxford, but no longer call at Banbury, Warwick Parkway or High Wycombe Coachway.
Most service 777 journeys between Birmingham/Coventry and Stansted will serve Leicester, but no longer call at Milton Keynes Coachway, Luton or Luton Airport. Service 707 will mostly be extended from Northampton to Coventry and Birmingham, maintaining a link between the West Midlands and Luton Airport.
The single daily return journey to/from London serving Lichfield, Tamworth and Nuneaton is scrapped without replacement.
Leamington Spa loses its daily London journey and that town and Stratford-upon-Avon also lose a daily link to/from Bristol with the scrapping of another cross-country link, the 337. The demise of the 337 also leaves the likes of Rugby, Evesham and Bidford-on-Avon off the NX network completely.
Times of many coaches on the main Birmingham to London services 410/420 group are revised to improve reliability. One journey each way to/from Shrewsbury and Telford is withdrawn.
Details now available on the journey planner at national express.com or on timetable PDFs at nxagents.com/the guide/
Thanks Smethwickian, a welcome summary. :)
I haven't followed NX coach routes much in recent years, but you are right - this is a big shake-up of services that have been around for many years.
What is a typical driving day like for an NX coach driver i.e do they drive one route for the whole day e.g 304 Birmingham to Weymouth and return or do they drive one route, change drivers and take a meal break then take over another bus? Also, does anyone know where the drivers would change over? Thanks.
Depends on the route. For example the 323,which I sometimes get from South Wales to Birmingham, is operated by a Merseyside based company who put their driver in a hotel in or near Cardiff. They will do the entire trip.
Quote from: Smethwickian on January 08, 2020, 08:39:46 PM
Lots of timetable changes coming from February 10 including a shake-up of some long-established service patterns to and from the West Midlands.
Most of the service 210/212 journeys between Birmingham and Heathrow/Gatwick will serve Oxford, but no longer call at Banbury, Warwick Parkway or High Wycombe Coachway.
...
Interesting, Oxford already have the Airline services so this seems almost in competition against them. And yet where I live in Banbury now gets pretty much cut off from the coach network, only once a day Oxford - Bradford now.
Quote from: Kevin on January 22, 2020, 06:01:06 PM
Interesting, Oxford already have the Airline services so this seems almost in competition against them. And yet where I live in Banbury now gets pretty much cut off from the coach network, only once a day Oxford - Bradford now.
Warwick Parkway and Banbury get a couple of replacement journeys each way numbered service 220 between Coventry and Heathrow.
But yes, NX seems to want a slice of the Oxford - Heathrow - Gatwick market itself instead of offering tickets on its website for connecting journeys with Oxford Bus Co's Airline routes.
National Express are expanding in to Ireland from 3rd March with 3 new 24hr coach services serving Dublin Airport under the 'Dublin Express' brand with Mercedes Tourismo's:
https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/business/national-express-eyeing-major-growth-in-ireland-979556.html
https://www.irishtimes.com/business/transport-and-tourism/national-express-to-run-dublin-airport-coach-service-1.4160124?mode=amp
I think the above will seriously undermine First Group's Aircoach route network also centred around Dublin Airport.
Tree fell over NatEx coach outside Victoria this morning
https://www.mylondon.news/news/zone-1-news/london-weather-tree-falls-path-17716497
All coaches are to be configured for wheelchair passengers (front two seats removed) permanently by 10th March.
New competition for NX Coaches in UK coach market:
https://www.route-one.net/coach-routes/flixbus-uk-domestic-coach-network-announced/
Changes to the NX network from 30th March:
481/484 revised
541/543 withdrawn.
Quote from: Winston on February 19, 2020, 12:35:42 PM
New competition for NX Coaches in UK coach market:
https://www.route-one.net/coach-routes/flixbus-uk-domestic-coach-network-announced/
I used FlixBus from Poznan to Berlin and back this time last year.
€30 return ticket (purchased the night before the journey). 4 hour journey. The most comfortable coach that I've ever been on. If they used the same style of coaches in the UK I would be looking at using them if they were available.
The present skeleton service in place since 24 March will operate for the last time on 5 April (with some late evening and all overnight journeys withdrawn).
The National Express coach network is then shut until further notice and most staff furloughed.
Quote from: Smethwickian on April 02, 2020, 12:23:26 PM
The present skeleton service in place since 24 March will operate for the last time on 5 April (with some late evening and all overnight journeys withdrawn).
The National Express coach network is then shut until further notice and most staff furloughed.
Chalfont Coaches Facebook page illustrates the above well, with most if not all of their NX coach fleet parked up:
https://www.facebook.com/ChalfontCoachesCogenhoe
This YouTube video also shows the extent to which Global Airlines are parking up large proportions of their fleets:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PcARWU2-x-w&t=16s
159; 161 have now left the fleet.
MD 15, 16, 20 have now left the fleet.
Yes it is in the right thread.
Quote from: BN on July 22, 2020, 06:20:02 PM
MD 15, 16, 20 have now left the fleet.
Yes it is in the right thread.
I assume for the above, all DeCourcey NX work has been taken in-house?
Quote from: Winston on July 22, 2020, 06:55:47 PM
I assume for the above, all DeCourcey NX work has been taken in-house?
As routes return they are not necessarily being allocated to the operators who operated them before. It looks like Walsall will not be getting any 444s (Worcester-London) but from next week have a PVR of 8, which is their highest ever, hence the transfer of 217 & 219 from Luton. There's also Travelstar European based in Walsall who are now being allocated work, not always the same as they had before, And Start Hill are running into the West Midlands.
Do we know what services are coming back yet thanks
Quote from: Tony on July 22, 2020, 07:00:03 PM
As routes return they are not necessarily being allocated to the operators who operated them before. It looks like Walsall will not be getting any 444s (Worcester-London) but from next week have a PVR of 8, which is their highest ever, hence the transfer of 217 & 219 from Luton. There's also Travelstar European based in Walsall who are now being allocated work, not always the same as they had before, And Start Hill are running into the West Midlands.
I've seen pictures of Start Hill tri-axles on the 490 in Norwich, which was a Galloway's route pre Covid
Quote from: Winston on July 22, 2020, 07:28:14 PM
I've seen pictures of Start Hill tri-axles on the 490 in Norwich, which was a Galloway's route pre Covid
They are doing Bristol & Newcastle-upon-Tyne as well
Quote from: Tony on July 22, 2020, 07:38:57 PM
They are doing Bristol & Newcastle-upon-Tyne as well
Pressume the Stansted Airport routes are very quiet / low frequency if even back at all.
Looking at tracker at the moment, Start Hill currently have coaches on the
905 London - Newcastle
400 Wolverhampton - London
491 Norwich-London
507, Swansea - London
030 Fareham - London
075 London - Cambridge
035 Poole - London
along with 10 on the A6, and 3 on the A9 between Stansted and London
Far & wide then. Makes sense to keep in-house fleet busy.
There's more on the A6/A9 than I was expecting.
There is a Start Hill triable levante 3 which lays over at Wolverhampton daily.
Which coach routes do Walsall now operate please ?
I'm guessing that the NX in-house routes will increase / expand in the months ahead. ;)
Quote from: TT90 on September 09, 2020, 10:02:07 PM
Which coach routes do Walsall now operate please ?
I'm guessing that the NX in-house routes will increase / expand in the months ahead. ;)
At the moment Wolverhampton to London and Birmingham to Blackpool
Is there a list of what coaches are here doing the school services thank you
Quote from: Solo1 on November 21, 2020, 01:17:26 PM
Is there a list of what coaches are here doing the school services thank you
regularly change. Drivers go back every weekend and some coaches go back with them and are changed over
Ok thank you
What services are they on?
Quote from: stephen ford on November 21, 2020, 02:40:01 PM
What services are they on?
Duplicate school services allover the West Midlands
45S is the one I know of. City Centre - Cadbury College, as i've seen it a few times in the past on Moor Street Queensway
@stephen ford.
Duplicate of BC 45.
Quote from: 2206 on November 21, 2020, 04:00:10 PM
45S is the one I know of. City Centre - Cadbury College, as i've seen it a few times in the past on Moor Street Queensway @stephen ford.
Duplicate of BC 45.
You've also got the WA 6S, PN 9S, PN 17S, WN 16S, YW 50S and BC 63S (AFAIK)
Quote from: the trainbasher on November 21, 2020, 04:13:22 PM
You've also got the WA 6S, PN 9S, PN 17S, WN 16S, YW 50S and BC 63S (AFAIK)
Where does the 9S and the 17S go
Quote from: BH2004 on November 21, 2020, 04:41:07 PM
Where does the 9S and the 17S go
9S is Birmingham (2 journeys) and Bearwood (1 journey)
17S is as far as Gornal Wood
(Based on pre half term observations)
They also run an X4s
Quote from: John on November 21, 2020, 06:33:07 PM
They also run an X4s
what time the X4 coach run at please thank you
Quote from: Solo1 on November 21, 2020, 07:10:36 PM
what time the X4 coach run at please thank you
Not surprisingly school times!
Quote from: Tony on November 21, 2020, 07:32:25 PM
Not surprisingly school times!
I know that but what time in city ,+ the 9s thank you
Quote from: Solo1 on November 21, 2020, 07:52:04 PM
I know that but what time in city ,+ the 9s thank you
You'll be waiting a very long time to see an X4s in City
Quote from: John on November 21, 2020, 08:40:38 PM
You'll be waiting a very long time to see an X4s in City
why does run from Sutton to erdington only if so what time please thank you
Quote from: Solo1 on November 21, 2020, 08:46:39 PM
why does run from Sutton to erdington only if so what time please thank you
Because that's the route... it's still essential travel only TIL the 2nd December so you'll have to wait TIL the 3rd December to photograph it...
#Exclusive
Different companies run different routes as well
Lucketts are on the X4S, 45S & 50S
Clarkes do the 6S
Kings Ferry do some Black Country ones
Moretons had a coach at BY last week as well, didn't see which route that one did
Clarks have been on 45S & Worthing on 50S saw in way to work
Quote from: Solo1 on November 22, 2020, 10:57:24 AM
Clarks have been on 45S & Worthing on 50S saw in way to work
Is that your excuse for your trips to West Brom and Halesowen during lockdown too?
I noticed one of BCs coaches has taken over the 51s
Quote from: 4679 on November 22, 2020, 11:22:29 AM
I noticed one of BCs coaches has taken over the 51s
That is a lucketts run, but they have been using Coventry's 258 & 259 to cover any problems with their own coaches
Quote from: John on November 22, 2020, 11:17:50 AM
Is that your excuse for your trips to West Brom and Halesowen during lockdown too?
I work in Birmingham & live in Birmingham
Quote from: Solo1 on November 22, 2020, 12:30:14 PM
I work in Birmingham & live in Brum
Birmingham and Brum are the same thing mate...
Quote from: John on November 22, 2020, 11:17:50 AM
Is that your excuse for your trips to West Brom and Halesowen during lockdown too?
others are out doing it
Quote from: Solo1 on November 22, 2020, 12:49:03 PM
others are out doing it
So that makes it right then?
Buses will still be about after the 2nd December for you to get, and I don't buy the 'I work' either
Quote from: John on November 22, 2020, 12:50:49 PM
So that makes it right then?
Buses will still be about after the 2nd December for you to get, and I don't buy the 'I work' either
If you're on your way to work, or out on a walk, then by all means, get photos. However, there's a difference between getting photos on your way to work, and travelling to West Bromwich and Halesowen for photos. It's common sense really, but it seems some enthusiasts lack it.
National Express coaches website to be updated at some point tomorrow, and mass generic email to go to all current and recent customers on database on on Friday, to advise that coach network will be suspended from midnight Sunday night, January 10.
Further advice regarding refunds or putting tickets on hold to be announced on website. Passengers strongly advised to use the online contact or ticket amendment options to be offered, as contact centre still on reduced hours and may yet be further reduced by furlough etc.
Suspension currently planned until end of February but subject to review in light of further government announcements etc.
Morning everyone,
As March approaches, does anyone know what routes NX Walsall are due to be operating, and are more routes moving
in-house in the months ahead ? .
Thanks all,
Quote from: TT90 on February 25, 2021, 09:09:30 AM
Morning everyone,
As March approaches, does anyone know what routes NX Walsall are due to be operating, and are more routes moving
in-house in the months ahead ? .
Thanks all,
I'd imagine it'd be more or less the same as what De Courcey did.
Hi Pat, sorry I'm not sure what routes MDC had. I know Walsall had about 4 or 5 but I guess they will be adding more soon. ;) Look forward to any network updates soon
Quote from: TT90 on February 26, 2021, 03:18:24 PM
Hi Pat, sorry I'm not sure what routes MDC had. I know Walsall had about 4 or 5 but I guess they will be adding more soon. ;) Look forward to any network updates soon
It is likely that Walsall will take on the 210 and additional 410 journeys.
Are Travelstar still operating NX contracts? I'd imagine some may be heading their way if so.
Yes I believe Travelstar are still operating NX coach work and may have more work like you say.
Hopefully NX Walsall will operate the 777 which MDC had ?
Services resuming from the 29th of March. Limited network - mainly to and from Victoria with a few regional services to Manchester, Bradford and Plymouth
8 coaches now allocated to Wolverhampton for NX network.
Don't ask for fleet numbers as the diagrams change daily.
Are they there for storage or are WN garage going to running a coach route from there as part of the network ? ;D
Quote from: TT90 on May 30, 2021, 09:37:46 PM
Are they there for storage or are WN garage going to running a coach route from there as part of the network ? ;D
If you read the post...........................for NX network.
Thanks for the smart answer !
Makes sense for WN to be operating some diagrams. Although Walsall isn't that far away, it does save on dead mileage.
which services are the 8 coaches that WN have running on
Quote from: Solo1 on May 31, 2021, 09:18:49 PM
which services are the 8 coaches that WN have running on
At a guess, the 210 (when it resumes in June) and the 400.
Does anyone have a list of what routes are operated out of Walsall?
Definately the 210, 400 and 777 but I am not sure which others. Does anyone know the full route list for NX Walsall coach please ?
Quote from: TT90 on June 18, 2021, 09:20:45 PM
Definately the 210, 400 and 777 but I am not sure which others. Does anyone know the full route list for NX Walsall coach please ?
Wolverhampton will run some 210 and 777 diagrams from Monday.
Quote from: BN on June 19, 2021, 07:17:13 AM
Wolverhampton will run some 210 and 777 diagrams from Monday.
Will Wolverhampton have a fixed coach allocation?
Quote from: Winston on June 19, 2021, 02:06:19 PM
Will Wolverhampton have a fixed coach allocation?
Not officially no. All WM coaches are just allocated to 'coach unit'
Looking at the photos today of the NX coaches has the work been brought in-house as opposed to Edwards running them hence the transfers
Quote from: Mayfield on June 24, 2021, 06:16:24 PM
Looking at the photos today of the NX coaches has the work been brought in-house as opposed to Edwards running them hence the transfers
I belive these to be the ones due for Wolverhampton.
Quote from: Mayfield on June 24, 2021, 06:16:24 PM
Looking at the photos today of the NX coaches has the work been brought in-house as opposed to Edwards running them hence the transfers
No, Edwards are receiving new coaches, and WM need Volvos.
Hi all,
Can anyone tell me which coach routes Luton and Start Hill operate please ?
Thanks in advance,
Looks as though NX are in the process of setting up a new London depot in Battersea, thought to be based at Abellio's Battersea depot. I assume this may also fall under WMT Ltd as per Stansted, Luton etc but current WMT Ltd licenses appear to being changed / surrendered
https://careers.nationalexpress.com/search/1471
Does anyone know which routes will operate out of Battersea, and which routes are starting up or changing from April in general please ?
Quote from: winston on March 06, 2022, 11:04:58 AM
Looks as though NX are in the process of setting up a new London depot in Battersea, thought to be based at Abellio's Battersea depot. I assume this may also fall under WMT Ltd as per Stansted, Luton etc but current WMT Ltd licenses appear to being changed / surrendered
https://careers.nationalexpress.com/search/1471
Looks as though the NX coaches & depots falling under WMT Ltd previously, have now moved back to National Express Limited with two new licenses as follows:
PF2040604 - Stansted & Luton
PK2040609 - Victoria Coach Station
What kind of suitcases can you take on the national express coaches these days. Are passengers only allowed to take hard suitcases or can they have the old style soft suitcases as well?
Quote from: Martin on June 13, 2022, 11:06:59 PMWhat kind of suitcases can you take on the national express coaches these days. Are passengers only allowed to take hard suitcases or can they have the old style soft suitcases as well?
There's no specifics, other than hard-shelled cases need to be stowed in the hold, rather than in the saloon as hand luggage.
Its the size and weight that matters more, see:
https://www.nationalexpress.com/en/help/luggage-lost-property
Noted a Lavante this afternoon on the M11 near Stansted painted all black or a very dark
Colour, weather was atrocious so couldn't be sure of colour, with large National Express lettering on the side, what would this be ?
As far as I am aware , there have been three new 72 plates Levante coaches [for Lucketts] delivered. Are any more due ?? Thanks in advance.
Noted a Lavante this afternoon on the M11 near Stansted painted all black or a very dark
Colour, weather was atrocious so couldn't be sure of colour, with large National Express lettering on the side, what would this be ?
Could it be this one
http://wmbusphotos.com/NXWM/Coaches/328.html
Quote from: B61 ANDREW on November 15, 2022, 08:34:10 PMAre any more due ?? .
True to form , not long after I ask , three more have appeared on BLOTW . . . . . . :wink:
Quote from: B61 ANDREW on November 23, 2022, 04:51:22 PMTrue to form , not long after I ask , three more have appeared on BLOTW . . . . . . :wink:
Just seen a post on Facebook with a sighting of a 72 plate Levante 3 at The Kings Ferry, Gillingham depot, suggestions they're due a batch presumably for Dover outstation
In a separate post, 2 more identified as BV72XFE & BV72XFS seen on delivery, operator unknown
Quote from: winston on November 23, 2022, 09:16:11 PMIn a separate post, 2 more identified as BV72XFE & BV72XFS seen on delivery, operator unknown
Bus and Coach Buyer have a photo showing BV72XEX. It also mentions the latest Levante Mk 111A going on trial with Bruces and Clarkes on various routes.
Quote from: B61 ANDREW on November 24, 2022, 10:46:47 AMBus and Coach Buyer have a photo showing BV72XEX. It also mentions the latest Levante Mk 111A going on trial with Bruces and Clarkes on various routes.
Yes, I've just seen that, Digital Mirrors are being trialled along with other modifications before an order/revised spec is placed to be rolled out to the fleet from Spring 2023:
https://www.busandcoachbuyer.com/new-caetano-levante-iiia-being-trialled/
BV72XEX pictured isn't registered yet.
According to DVLA vehicle check more Levante's are registered as follows:
BV72XES
BV72XFD
Quote from: winston on November 24, 2022, 11:20:45 AMYes, I 've just seen that, Digital Mirrors are being trialled along with other modifications before an order/revised spec is placed to be rolled out to the fleet from Spring 2023:
https://www.busandcoachbuyer.com/new-caetano-levante-iiia-being-trialled/
BV72XEX pictured isn't registered yet.
According to DVLA vehicle check more Levante's are registered as follows:
BV72XES
BV72XFD
I really must learn how to "copy and paste" ! ! Cheers Winston. :smiley:
Anyone know if the people involved in last nights crash are ok?
Quote from: Coventrybususer95 on January 11, 2023, 05:11:40 PMAnyone know if the people involved in last nights crash are ok?
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-coventry-warwickshire-64235666
News report says 12 taken to hospital, three serious.
Mirrorless Levante 3A BV72 XEX has been on the 400 this week between London and Birmingham.
Apparently a good few new services starting in March and April, not sure why NatEx is being slow at opening up the services though. Surely they want bookings ASAP?
Noted from discussions with others are that Chester is due to get some kind of service to be ran by Stagecoach MCSL Rock Ferry depot (apparently a Chester route but they are running it from Rock Ferry due to no toilet drop) using 64 plate ex Megabus South Bristol Levantes.
Also of note is Bruces apparently due a Glasgow to Liverpool via Manchester route, a 590X and a daytime 596.
Other news. This bit reported by David Wallington (Head of commercial & NatEx) on the National Express Group Enthusiasts & Passengers Discussing Facebook Group is that Skeggy and Minehead are not operating this year so that they can focus on the main network.
Quote from: IMarkeh on February 25, 2023, 01:28:02 AMNoted from discussions with others are that Chester is due to get some kind of service to be ran by Stagecoach MCSL Rock Ferry depot (apparently a Chester route but they are running it from Rock Ferry due to no toilet drop) using 64 plate ex Megabus South Bristol Levantes.
I'm surprised NX are allowing 9 year old coaches on to a new service to Chester. They will be the oldest coaches on the network.
That said, there's still a decent number of 65 plate coaches on the network, including from Own Ops fleets.
Quote from: winston on February 25, 2023, 08:57:46 AMI'm surprised NX are allowing 9 year old coaches on to a new service to Chester. They will be the oldest coaches on the network.
That said, there's still a decent number of 65 plate coaches on the network, including from Own Ops fleets.
Perhaps there's a promise of newer vehicles in the first few months and that they're merely starting the service with them.
Also,did this news mention anything about services recommencing to serve Worcester?
I'd be surprised if NX use 9 year old coaches on the Chester service seeing as it being run by Stagecoach
Quote from: Mayfield on February 25, 2023, 09:13:02 PMI'd be surprised if NX use 9 year old coaches on the Chester service seeing as it being run by Stagecoach
Scania Levantes are currently with Stagecoach Rock Ferry being repainted. 59223/26/27/28 are the buses involved. It's gone through a good few local Stagecoach MCSL groups that these are being repainted for National Express use.
5602; 5603; 5604 HLC - SH
Quote from: Tony on April 02, 2023, 08:59:28 AMGoing to be 351-3
Anymore coming? What's happened to 339 onwards?
New ones have started at 4xx as well
Quote from: BN on April 02, 2023, 09:40:20 AMAnymore coming? What's happened to 339 onwards?
New ones have started at 4xx as well
up to 347 have been delivered, They were being put on 7i last week. C350 has already been used
Quote from: BN on April 02, 2023, 09:40:20 AMAnymore coming? What's happened to 339 onwards?
New ones have started at 4xx as well
@BN more that I'm aware of:
340 BV72XFX342 BV72XFZ343 BV72XGABV72XFYBV72XGBBV72XGNBV72XGOBV72XGPBV72XGRBV72XGS(XGN, XGO, XGP seem to be at LA, the rest at SH)
BV72XEX Levante 3A is also currently at SH
Quote@BN more that I'm aware of:
340 BV72XFX
342 BV72XFZ
343 BV72XGA
BV72XFY
BV72XGB
BV72XGN
BV72XGO
BV72XGP
BV72XGR
BV72XGS
(XGN, XGO, XGP seem to be at LA, the rest at SH)
BV72XEX Levante 3A is also currently at SH
XGS is 346 and XGN is 347. Got snaps of those 2 in London last week as well as 343
More fleet numbers confirmed for NX Ops batch at SH & LA:
344 BV72XGB
348 BV72XGO
349 BV72XGP
More new ones confirmed:
BV23ZUA Bruce's Loan (until their spec one's arrive i.e. larger fuel tanks)
BV23ZUC Bruce's Loan (until their spec one's arrive i.e. larger fuel tanks)
BV23ZUD Selywns
BV23ZVA Selywns
BV23ZVB tbc
BV23ZVC tbc
Basic details of all of 339-353 are now on the main site here
NX Coach fleet (wmbusphotos.com) (http://wmbusphotos.com/NXWM/fleetlist/coachfleet.html)
Quote from: Tony on April 04, 2023, 07:24:51 PMBasic details of all of 339-353 are now on the main site here
NX Coach fleet (wmbusphotos.com) (http://wmbusphotos.com/NXWM/fleetlist/coachfleet.html)
Thanks, you've got a typo on 352/353, you have them as 62 plates instead of 67 plate.
205 is at Lucketts (now numbered 5623)
208 is at Lucketts (now numbered 5624)
232 is at Chalfonts
Should the NXWM fleet also now be allocated to Aston in lieu of Walsall.
Also seen suggestions that Bennetts Coaches maybe receiving some ex NXWM NX liveried coaches, so not sure how many new ones are due at Aston to join 401/2.
Former NXWM 283 (now 5547) at Woods doesn't appear to have moved since 2nd March & arrival of 5 new Scania / Levante 3's
Quote from: winston on April 04, 2023, 07:41:21 PMThanks, you've got a typo on 352/353, you have them as 62 plates instead of 67 plate.
205 is at Lucketts (now numbered 5623)
208 is at Lucketts (now numbered 5624)
232 is at Chalfonts
Should the NXWM fleet also now be allocated to Aston in lieu of Walsall.
Also seen suggestions that Bennetts Coaches maybe receiving some ex NXWM NX liveried coaches, so not sure how many new ones are due at Aston to join 401/2.
Former NXWM 283 (now 5547) at Woods doesn't appear to have moved since 2nd March & arrival of 5 new Scania / Levante 3's
There's a lot needs updating on that list, I need time to go through the full list on the NX computer. Hopefully have time next week
NX coaches growth plans & new coach deliveries for 2023/24:
https://www.route-one.net/coach/growth-beckons-for-the-scheduled-coach-market-national-express/
Does anyone know which 4 new routes Jason Edwards Travel Ltd (former Edwards Coaches director) will be operating from Iver near Heathrow & from when?
https://www.route-one.net/features/jason-edwards-returns-to-scheduled-coaches/
Quote from: winston on April 18, 2023, 01:04:52 AMNX coaches growth plans & new coach deliveries for 2023/24:
https://www.route-one.net/coach/growth-beckons-for-the-scheduled-coach-market-national-express/
It looks like the Levante will continue to be the preferred body type for some time still.
Quote from: B61 ANDREW on April 18, 2023, 12:06:20 PMIt looks like the Levante will continue to be the preferred body type for some time still.
At least until new diesel coaches are replaced by Hydrogen or Electric.
The article does suggest Caetano are struggling with production capacity / long leadtimes, like most builders at present.
More new Scania K410EB6 / Levante 3 coaches are as follows:
West Midlands Travel Ltd (Aston):
354 BV23ZVC
355 BV23ZVD
BV23ZVE
BV23ZVF
BV23ZVG
BV23ZVH
BV23ZVJ
BV23ZVK
BV23ZVL
BV23ZVM
Aston have taken over operation of NX route 707 (Birmingham - Heathrow Airport T5) from Chalfonts as of today.
Edwards Coaches, Llantrisant:
BV23ZVW
To be confirmed:
BV23ZVX
Quote from: winston on April 28, 2023, 09:44:49 AMMore new Scania K410EB6 / Levante 3 coaches are as follows:
West Midlands Travel Ltd (Aston):
354 BV23ZVC
355 BV23ZVD
BV23ZVE
BV23ZVF
BV23ZVG
BV23ZVH
BV23ZVJ
BV23ZVK
BV23ZVL
BV23ZVM
Aston have taken over operation of NX route 707 (Birmingham - Heathrow Airport T5) from Chalfonts as of today.
Edwards Coaches, Llantrisant:
BV23ZVW
To be confirmed:
BV23ZVX
Yes, 355 rocked up at Park Lane Friday evening. Hope it's allocated to us.
Quote from: BN on April 29, 2023, 12:20:12 PMYes, 355 rocked up at Park Lane Friday evening. Hope it's allocated to us.
I see from the Woods new license application, Park Lane will be getting its own allocation of NX Coaches.
Quote from: winston on April 29, 2023, 02:54:22 PMI see from the Woods new license application, Park Lane will be getting its own allocation of NX Coaches.
Correct.
Quote from: winston on April 29, 2023, 02:54:22 PMI see from the Woods new license application, Park Lane will be getting its own allocation of NX Coaches.
Correct Winston, 10 private hire vehicles on top of our 4 network vehicles
Quote from: BN on April 29, 2023, 04:23:44 PMCorrect Winston, 10 private hire vehicles on top of our 4 network vehicles
BX65 WAJ the former Walsall number 94 has returned to Woods and was back in use yesterday & today, you might get that!
Quote from: BN on April 29, 2023, 04:23:44 PMCorrect Winston, 10 private hire vehicles on top of our 4 network vehicles
Is that 10 Private Hire vehicles from NETS, Aston, Woods or extra NETS coaches?
Quote from: Tony on April 29, 2023, 05:40:43 PMBX65 WAJ the former Walsall number 94 has returned to Woods and was back in use yesterday & today, you might get that!
BX65WAJ is still showing as an Ambassador
Woods also appear to have 4983 BX65WBW out on the 230, the same as BX65WAJ.
There's a number of 65 plate being returned to the network for expansion, along with a few 64 plate examples.
Quote from: winston on April 29, 2023, 06:49:09 PMBX65WAJ is still showing as an Ambassador
All 6 ex Walsall have all been moved to Woods from Ambassador, but may not all be used
Quote from: winston on April 29, 2023, 06:43:30 PMIs that 10 Private Hire vehicles from NETS, Aston, Woods or extra NETS coaches?
We're getting 10 from Aston
Quote from: winston on April 29, 2023, 06:49:09 PMBX65WAJ is still showing as an Ambassador
Woods also appear to have 4983 BX65WBW out on the 230, the same as BX65WAJ.
There's a number of 65 plate being returned to the network for expansion, along with a few 64 plate examples.
The following are now at Woods Coaches (last used by Edwards Coaches):
4828 BX65WBY
https://www.flickr.com/photos/128987711@N07/52859537799
4829 BX65WCE & 8833? BX65WCD
https://www.flickr.com/photos/128987711@N07/52858690847
4831 BX65WCG:
https://www.flickr.com/photos/128987711@N07/52859769340
Latest update for Aston. Fleet numbers probably going to be 354 onwards.
| 401/355 | BV72 XGT |
| 402/356 | BV72 XGU |
| 403/357 | BV23 ZVD |
| 404/358 | BV23 ZVE |
| 405/359 | BV23 ZVF |
| 406/360 | BV23 ZVG |
| 407/361 | BV23 ZVH |
| 408/362 | BV23 ZVJ |
| 409/363 | BV23 ZVK |
| 410/364 | BV23 ZVL |
| 411/365 | BV23 ZVM |
| 91 | BK15 AJV |
| 93 | BX65 WAE |
Is it possible that the National Express and Tourmo fleets will be rationalised into a singular fleet numbering system. Ineed will they rationise the Tourmo system and do away with the Lucketts fleet numbering.
Quote from: BN on May 07, 2023, 08:07:54 AMLatest update for Aston. Fleet numbers probably going to be 354 onwards.
| 401/355 | BV72 XGT |
| 402/356 | BV72 XGU |
| 403/357 | BV23 ZVD |
| 404/358 | BV23 ZVE |
| 405/359 | BV23 ZVF |
| 406/360 | BV23 ZVG |
| 407/361 | BV23 ZVH |
| 408/362 | BV23 ZVJ |
| 409/363 | BV23 ZVK |
| 410/364 | BV23 ZVL |
| 411/365 | BV23 ZVM |
| 91 | BK15 AJV |
| 93 | BX65 WAE |
There's a picture on Facebook showing BV23ZVL carrying fleetnumber 365, any ideas if that has been numbered incorrectly?
BV23 ZVL is carrying No.365, saw it at Digbeth CS today
Any allocation for Levante BV23ZWE please ??
Quote from: B61 ANDREW on July 03, 2023, 06:12:22 PMAny allocation for Levante BV23ZWE please ??
With most NX vehicles, as soon as they are in use if you put the reg in the search box it will give you the operator. In this case it is the brand new op Jason Edwards Travel
BV23 ZWE – National Express – bustimes.org (https://bustimes.org/vehicles/natx-bv23-zwe)
Route one reports NX are adding 150 new coaches, is this correct ?
Quote from: Mayfield on July 03, 2023, 07:44:05 PMRoute one reports NX are adding 150 new coaches, is this correct ?
Route one don't invent news to publish
Quote from: Tony on July 03, 2023, 06:30:42 PMWith most NX vehicles, as soon as they are in use if you put the reg in the search box it will give you the operator. In this case it is the brand new op Jason Edwards Travel
Thanks Tony - as ever. I was going to add that I had seen it on a Glastonbury run on the M5 on the 21st last month but maybe I hadn't . . . . . But a very kind soul has posted a photo on Flickr confirming it did a run on service G26 . The wonders of the "interweb". :smiley:
Quote from: Mayfield on July 03, 2023, 07:44:05 PMRoute one reports NX are adding 150 new coaches, is this correct ?
Some reports say 130 but either way it is a significant investment over a period of time .Eight new vehicles will be used on a new service - Belfast to Dublin.
Quote from: B61 ANDREW on July 04, 2023, 11:48:32 AMSome reports say 130 but either way it is a significant investment over a period of time .Eight new vehicles will be used on a new service - Belfast to Dublin.
I beleive there's only 6 x new Scania / Levante 3's for Dublin Express, the new service will compete directly with First Group owned Aircoach:
3 of the Levante 3's are confirmed as follows:
BV23ZVU
BV23ZVY
BV23ZWD
I believe the other 3 are likely to be as follows (but not confirmed)
BV23ZVR
BV23ZVS
BV23ZVT
They will be operated by Quinns, Northern Ireland on behalf of Dublin Express
@winston I have updated the fleet list for the coaches numbered into the main NX fleet number series
see
NX Coach fleet (wmbusphotos.com) (http://wmbusphotos.com/NXWM/fleetlist/coachfleet.html)
Quote from: Tony on July 04, 2023, 06:23:10 PM@winston
I have updated the fleet list for the coaches numbered into the main NX fleet number series
see
NX Coach fleet (wmbusphotos.com) (http://wmbusphotos.com/NXWM/fleetlist/coachfleet.html)
Thanks Tony much appreciated 👍
Just a normal day for an NX Coach Driver....
https://www.facebook.com/reel/827547915033169?fs=e&s=TIeQ9V
Now for something a bit different!
Old Nat Ex Coach advert from 1990. It looks like the old Banbury Bus Station at the end, so I suspect the new and very quiet motorway was the M40 extension which would have been being built back then.
https://fb.watch/mztzee5ROY/
Quote from: D10 on August 21, 2023, 08:37:00 PMNow for something a bit different!
Old Nat Ex Coach advert from 1990. It looks like the old Banbury Bus Station at the end, so I suspect the new and very quiet motorway was the M40 extension which would have been being built back then.
You could well be right! It does look like the old Banbury Bus Station.
Article on route one about NX passenger numbers is good news
Woods 362 starring roll in an advert with Take That (and me as the driver)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t7Jq8rlXcog
I seen a post that national express coaches are actually running on Christmas Day, any ideas what services will be running on these days. I know the 151 (Birmingham to Grimsby via Leicester, Newark, Lincoln and cleethorpes) isn't running, I also assume the 152 (Birmingham to hull via Nottingham, Doncaster and Scunthorpe) as these are both oporated by East Yorkshire coaches. Is it just services oporated by national express themselves running, or is it services that run into London.
Quote from: Wba_lad on December 18, 2023, 10:05:28 PMI seen a post that national express coaches are actually running on Christmas Day, any ideas what services will be running on these days. I know the 151 (Birmingham to Grimsby via Leicester, Newark, Lincoln and cleethorpes) isn't running, I also assume the 152 (Birmingham to hull via Nottingham, Doncaster and Scunthorpe) as these are both oporated by East Yorkshire coaches. Is it just services oporated by national express themselves running, or is it services that run into London.
It's all on their website:
https://www.nationalexpress.com/en/christmas
Interesting to note that service 808 (Wolverhampton to London) will use Faulkland Street coach park instead of the bus station.
Quote from: Rachvince53 on December 19, 2023, 12:13:40 PMInteresting to note that service 808 (Wolverhampton to London) will use Faulkland Street coach park instead of the bus station.
The bus station probably isn't open on christmas day.
With no local bus services running to there's no need for it to open.
Quote from: 2206 on December 19, 2023, 05:07:22 PMThe bus station probably isn't open on christmas day.
With no local bus services running to there's no need for it to open.
Yes, Wolverhampton bus station will most likely be locked up after the last service on Christmas Eve, I can't imagine TFWM wanting to open the bus station for one coach service,
Quote from: Rachvince53 on December 19, 2023, 12:13:40 PMInteresting to note that service 808 (Wolverhampton to London) will use Faulkland Street coach park instead of the bus station.
Similar 'nearby but not inside closed bus stations' arrangements will apply to NX Christmas Day services from Edinburgh, Swansea, Middlesbrough and Golders Green. Passengers will need to check their tickets or the timetables at https://timetables.nationalexpress.com/routes carefully.
Surely NatEx should do an assessment on whether the Banga stand at the police station can be used by Levantes? After all, that is an official coach stand and much closer to the town than Faulkland Street
Quote from: IMarkeh on December 20, 2023, 08:21:45 PMSurely NatEx should do an assessment on whether the Banga stand at the police station can be used by Levantes? After all, that is an official coach stand and much closer to the town than Faulkland Street
With no other public transport running, being in the city centre is no advantage.
Faulkland Street is called a coach station and has plenty of room for passengers to be dropped off by car/minicab/taxi.
Quote from: Tony on December 20, 2023, 08:29:52 PMWith no other public transport running, being in the city centre is no advantage.
Faulkland Street is called a coach station and has plenty of room for passengers to be dropped off by car/minicab/taxi.
I can see your point but they have kept city centre stops for other places and so it must still have some value.
Just because Faulkland Street is called a 'coach station', it doesn't mean it is one. It's quite far from it now, it's just a coach park with New Bharat Coaches stopping there twice per day. Hardly constitutes a coach station.
Quote from: IMarkeh on December 22, 2023, 04:52:52 PMI can see your point but they have kept city centre stops for other places and so it must still have some value.
Just because Faulkland Street is called a 'coach station', it doesn't mean it is one. It's quite far from it now, it's just a coach park with New Bharat Coaches stopping there twice per day. Hardly constitutes a coach station.
It does have car parking and public toilets though, two big advantages over a bus stop in the city centre
Quote from: Tony on December 22, 2023, 06:01:35 PMIt does have car parking and public toilets though, two big advantages over a bus stop in the city centre
Will the toilets be open on Christmas Day though?
Quote from: IMarkeh on December 23, 2023, 08:18:38 PMWill the toilets be open on Christmas Day though?
https://www.wolverhampton.gov.uk/community/council-run-public-toilets-wolverhampton
No.
Quote from: Tony on December 22, 2023, 06:01:35 PMIt does have car parking and public toilets though, two big advantages over a bus stop in the city centre
Although the toilets are often locked in my experience.
Looks as though Edwards Coaches will be replacing their entire NX fleet as well as expanding it, following a massive fleet investment:
68 x Scania / Levante 3A's are on order of which 14 were delivered just before Xmas, leaving 54 still to follow:
10 x Van Hool Altano's will also follow in June likely replacing the 10 x Caetano Boa Vista coaches (6 x 66 plate & 4 x 18 plate)
https://www.route-one.net/news/edwards-to-add-86-new-coaches-for-holidays-and-natex-work/
Quote from: winston on January 09, 2024, 12:21:48 AMLooks as though Edwards Coaches will be replacing their entire NX fleet as well as expanding it, following a massive fleet investment:
68 x Scania / Levante 3A's are on order of which 14 were delivered just before Xmas, leaving 54 still to follow:
10 x Van Hool Altano's will also follow in June likely replacing the 10 x Caetano Boa Vista coaches (6 x 66 plate & 4 x 18 plate)
https://www.route-one.net/news/edwards-to-add-86-new-coaches-for-holidays-and-natex-work/
As someone who uses their coaches on the 507/9 between Cardiff/Newport and London,plus their work into Birmingham-forget the route numbers off hand-this is welcome news.
Quote from: markcf83 on January 09, 2024, 02:58:47 PMAs someone who uses their coaches on the 507/9 between Cardiff/Newport and London,plus their work into Birmingham-forget the route numbers off hand-this is welcome news.
Edwards already operate a very modern NX fleet, the oldest Levante 2's they currently have are 17 plate (20) & 67 plate (9)
The initial delivery of 14 x Levante 3A's seems to have resulted in the 7 x 71 plate Volvo B11RT/Levante 3 being removed from service, I can only assume they'll transfer to another NX contractor, being only just over 2 years old (new 11/2021).
Quote from: winston on January 09, 2024, 03:41:40 PMEdwards already operate a very modern NX fleet, the oldest Levante 2's they currently have are 17 plate (20) & 67 plate (9)
The initial delivery of 14 x Levante 3A's seems to have resulted in the 7 x 71 plate Volvo B11RT/Levante 3 being removed from service, I can only assume they'll transfer to another NX contractor, being only just over 2 years old (new 11/2021).
Correct Winston, they have transferred to Aston.
Quote from: BN on January 09, 2024, 04:17:50 PMCorrect Winston, they have transferred to Aston.
I did think they could end up at Aston, as they have a predominantly Volvo based fleet.
Are those instead of or aswell as the new Scania / Levante 3A's that were due?
Quote from: winston on January 09, 2024, 12:21:48 AMLooks as though Edwards Coaches will be replacing their entire NX fleet as well as expanding it, following a massive fleet investment:
68 x Scania / Levante 3A's are on order of which 14 were delivered just before Xmas, leaving 54 still to follow:
10 x Van Hool Altano's will also follow in June likely replacing the 10 x Caetano Boa Vista coaches (6 x 66 plate & 4 x 18 plate)
https://www.route-one.net/news/edwards-to-add-86-new-coaches-for-holidays-and-natex-work/
Will the Boa Vistas transfer over to be used on other NX work or will they be leaving all together.
Quote from: 900 on January 10, 2024, 02:02:17 PMWill the Boa Vistas transfer over to be used on other NX work or will they be leaving all together.
I heard they are leaving Bristol,for where is another matter.......
Quote from: markcf83 on January 13, 2024, 01:54:48 PMI heard they are leaving Bristol,for where is another matter.......
The new Edwards fleet will be replacing everything up to the 72 plate Levante 3's, just 2 older coaches will be retained to operate the 216 Cardiff - Bristol Airport from the 17/67 plate batch of Levante 2's.
The newer coaches are expected to be withdrawn from service first & transfer to other NX operators. BV22VTK, BV22VST & BV22VSU have already been withdrawn & collected by NX, not sure which subsidiary they've gone to. Luton has a number of 65 & 16 plate coaches still in regular service, so could be a contender.
Quote from: winston on January 13, 2024, 05:55:10 PMThe newer coaches are expected to be withdrawn from service first & transfer to other NX operators. BV22VTK, BV22VST & BV22VSU have already been withdrawn & collected by NX, not sure which subsidiary they've gone to. Luton has a number of 65 & 16 plate coaches still in regular service, so could be a contender.
It looks as though ex Edwards Coaches BV22VTK & BV22VSU have indeed transferred to NX Ops Luton Depot.
Also, Woods Coaches - Aston Depot 358, 360 & 365 also seem to have transferred to NX Ops Luton Depot, with the majority of the 16 plate Levante 2's at Luton Depot not being used since.
Looks like a National express levante 3 has broken down outside Edgbaston village by the Morrisons it's stopped with hazard lights on and displaying NOT IN SERVICE.
BV71GYJ 394
BV71GYK 395
BV71GYN 396
BV71GYO 397
BV71GYP 398
BV71GYR 399
BV71GYS 400
All allocated to Aston
220 Aston - Withdrawn
283 Aston - Wigston
358, 360, 365 Aston - Starthill
Quote from: BN on January 20, 2024, 08:53:31 AMBV71GYJ 394
BV71GYK 395
BV71GYN 396
BV71GYO 397
BV71GYP 398
BV71GYR 399
BV71GYS 400
All allocated to Aston
Thanks
@BN - Any idea which vehicles have fleet numbers 381-393?
I don't suppose you also know what the fleetnumbers are for the following coaches at Woods, Wigston?
BV19XPC
BV19XPD
BV69KPT
Quote from: BN on January 20, 2024, 08:54:57 AM220 Aston - Withdrawn
283 Aston - Wigston
358, 360, 365 Aston - Starthill
You previously said 220 was withdrawn on 2nd December, did it stay on for longer or it that a typo?
https://wmbusphotos.com/forum/index.php?topic=1740.msg321442#msg321442
Also, 358, 360 & 365 I believe have transferred to Luton rather than Start Hill
Quote from: winston on January 20, 2024, 12:15:14 PMYou previously said 220 was withdrawn on 2nd December, did it stay on for longer or it that a typo?
https://wmbusphotos.com/forum/index.php?topic=1740.msg321442#msg321442
Also, 358, 360 & 365 I believe have transferred to Luton rather than Start Hill
Apologies
@winston didn't realise I'd already posted that one
Quote from: winston on January 20, 2024, 12:09:27 PMThanks @BN - Any idea which vehicles have fleet numbers 381-393?
I don't suppose you also know what the fleetnumbers are for the following coaches at Woods, Wigston?
BV19XPC
BV19XPD
BV69KPT
4835
4836
4837
There's a couple of new NX services showing on Bustimes:
603:
https://bustimes.org/services/603-thetford-cambridge-trumpington-park-ride
604:
https://bustimes.org/services/604-thetford-cambridge-trumpington-park-ride
605:
https://bustimes.org/services/605-northampton-northampton-queen-eleanor-intercha
The link above for the 605 has Northampton - Northampton Queen Eleanor Interchange, whilst the timetable shows the 605 is Birmingham Digbeth Coach Station to Coventry Pool Meadow
Quote from: winston on January 31, 2024, 01:47:45 PMThere's a couple of new NX services showing on Bustimes:
603:
https://bustimes.org/services/603-thetford-cambridge-trumpington-park-ride
604:
https://bustimes.org/services/604-thetford-cambridge-trumpington-park-ride
605:
https://bustimes.org/services/605-northampton-northampton-queen-eleanor-intercha
The link above for the 605 has Northampton - Northampton Queen Eleanor Interchange, whilst the timetable shows the 605 is Birmingham Digbeth Coach Station to Coventry Pool Meadow
They aren't new services, someone just made a balls up.
603 is actually the 727, 604 is the 728. I'm guessing it's because these sections of the 727/728 are now registered and so carry local passengers and for some reason, someone chose to make a 603/604 rather than just amend the 727/728 to take local passengers, as happened on other routes.
National express need to find a new company to run the 152 (hull to Birmingham) and the 151 (Grimsby to Birmingham) East Yorkshire who run it on behalf of national express are not running correctly they get to Birmingham and leave not in service because vehicle issue. This happens a lot, today they used one of their own vehicles it did the 152 from hull to Birmingham it got to Birmingham and left not in service and went back to depot in hull. Amans coaches had to come out on emergency cover and start from Leicester which is where I caught this service from, in the end this caused a 2 hour delay. Somthing needs to be done regarding this even the woman in the office said she don't know why they keep using their own vehicles when they know it keeps breaking down.
358; 359; 360; 362; 363; 364; 365 Midlands - London & Airports
In June Edwards have got some new Vanhool coaches arriving. I thought NE only allowed Levante coaches on their routes
The Boa Vistas have been on the network for 7 years.
These are the replacements the announcement was made by National Express themselves several weeks ago
Quote from: Tony on February 17, 2024, 06:37:47 AMThe Boa Vistas have been on the network for 7 years.
These are the replacements the announcement was made by National Express themselves several weeks ago
Does anyone have any idea what will happen with the Boa Vista's ?? Are there any other NX routes that would have a use for such vehicles or will they get sold off ??
Quote from: B61 ANDREW on February 18, 2024, 08:44:06 PMDoes anyone have any idea what will happen with the Boa Vista's ?? Are there any other NX routes that would have a use for such vehicles or will they get sold off ??
The 66 plate Boa Vista's will be too old, they'll be 8 years old this Autumn. I suspect they will all be returned off lease & sold off including the 18 plate examples.
I understand that spare parts aren't that easy to source & they're not that reliable.
Quote from: winston on February 18, 2024, 09:26:57 PMThe 66 plate Boa Vista's will be too old, they'll be 8 years old this Autumn. I suspect they will all be returned off lease & sold off including the 18 plate examples.
Thanks as ever winston. I can think of one [East] Midland operator who uses double deck coaches on Scania chassis who could be interested if the Boa Vista's come on the market. :rolleyes:
Just seen this
https://x.com/pelicanyutong/status/1762887337904689472?s=46
Quote from: Coventrybususer95 on February 28, 2024, 06:21:33 PMJust seen this
https://x.com/pelicanyutong/status/1762887337904689472?s=46
Exciting news and investment.
@Tony will these be fitted with common charging plugs so they may be charged at other NX sites like CV if required?
Quote from: Wumpty on February 29, 2024, 07:44:33 AMExciting news and investment.
@Tony will these be fitted with common charging plugs so they may be charged at other NX sites like CV if required?
It's only a demo on 4 weeks trial on London - Standard routes with NX, for both Pelican & NX to gain operating experience.
I believe Caetano are developing a hydrogen powered coach too.
Quote from: winston on February 29, 2024, 10:43:47 AMIt's only a demo on 4 weeks trial on London - Standard routes with NX, for both Pelican & NX to gain operating experience.
I believe Caetano are developing a hydrogen powered coach too.
Is hydrogen really a wise idea, with the problem national express west midlands are facing with the streetdecks, dont get me wrong i love hydrogen streetdecks and i think hydrogen is a better idea than electric but dont seem like its working as of yet.
That is a nice looking coach
Quote from: Wba_lad on February 29, 2024, 05:23:45 PMIs hydrogen really a wise idea, with the problem national express west midlands are facing with the streetdecks, dont get me wrong i love hydrogen streetdecks and i think hydrogen is a better idea than electric but dont seem like its working as of yet.
Electric can't do the range NX coaches would need.
I believe this is the current fleet although I believe 205/9-13 are now withdrawn, they haven't ben changed on the NX computer yet
NX Coach fleet (wmbusphotos.com) (https://wmbusphotos.com/NXWM/fleetlist/coachfleet.html)
Quote from: Wumpty on February 29, 2024, 07:44:33 AMTony (https://wmbusphotos.com/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=1) will these be fitted with common charging plugs so they may be charged at other NX sites like CV if required?
Vehicle electric charging plugs/sockets are pretty much standard, so that won't be an issue.
Quote from: Stu on March 01, 2024, 08:43:11 PMVehicle electric charging plugs/sockets are pretty much standard, so that won't be an issue.
Thanks
@Stu - not an electric convert yet so still finding my feet with compatibility.
Quote from: Tony on March 01, 2024, 08:03:10 PMI believe this is the current fleet although I believe 205/9-13 are now withdrawn, they haven't ben changed on the NX computer yet
NX Coach fleet (wmbusphotos.com) (https://wmbusphotos.com/NXWM/fleetlist/coachfleet.html)
220 returned to bank
229 still withdrawn @ Volvo
232 transferred to Chalfonts
362, 363, 364 are now at Luton
Quote from: BN on March 02, 2024, 04:09:49 PM220 returned to bank
229 still withdrawn @ Volvo
232 transferred to Chalfonts
362, 363, 364 are now at Luton
In addition:
395 has already left Wandsworth & has since transferred to Lucketts
25 x Van Hool Altano's are now expected for NX services, 10 x Edwards (NX route 040) & 15 x Selwyns (NX route 540): https://www.busandcoachbuyer.com/first-glimpse-van-hools-entering-service-with-national-express/
Lucketts have also received an 18 plate Caetano Boa Vista 7301 BU18OTC ex Edwards believed to be for general coaching work.
Quote from: winston on March 16, 2024, 06:55:59 PM25 x Van Hool Altano's are now expected for NX services, 10 x Edwards (NX route 040) & 15 x Selwyns (NX route 540): https://www.busandcoachbuyer.com/first-glimpse-van-hools-entering-service-with-national-express/
Lucketts have also received an 18 plate Caetano Boa Vista 7301 BU18OTC ex Edwards believed to be for general coaching work.
Quote from: winston on March 16, 2024, 06:55:59 PMLucketts have also received an 18 plate Caetano Boa Vista 7301 BU18OTC ex Edwards believed to be for general coaching work.
There has been a massive shift of vehicles recently, over 100 have also now been sold, right across the business.
Quote from: BN on March 17, 2024, 07:55:40 AMThere has been a massive shift of vehicles recently, over 100 have also now been sold, right across the business.
I've heard they're selling off owned coaches at Lucketts in favour of moving in leased ex Clarkes Tourismo's etc
Quote from: winston on March 16, 2024, 06:55:59 PM25 x Van Hool Altano's are now expected for NX services, 10 x Edwards (NX route 040) & 15 x Selwyns (NX route 540): https://www.busandcoachbuyer.com/first-glimpse-van-hools-entering-service-with-national-express/
Lucketts have also received an 18 plate Caetano Boa Vista 7301 BU18OTC ex Edwards believed to be for general coaching work.
I see Van Hool has gone belly up and are being purchased subject to conditions being met to VDL, wonder if this will affect delivery of the above ?
Quote from: Mayfield on April 09, 2024, 07:37:34 PMI see Van Hool has gone belly up and are being purchased subject to conditions being met to VDL, wonder if this will affect delivery of the above ?
Last I read was that Van Hool were looking to restructure their business in order to focus on 'luxury coaches', and it was the regular buses they were looking to discontinue or off-load, so I don't think this will affect things that way.
Quote from: Stu on April 09, 2024, 08:57:26 PMLast I read was that Van Hool were looking to restructure their business in order to focus on 'luxury coaches', and it was the regular buses they were looking to discontinue or off-load, so I don't think this will affect things that way.
Van Hool are declared bankrupt:
https://www.route-one.net/news/van-hool-declared-bankrupt-vdl-to-take-coach-and-bus-activities/
@Mayfield - I assume there may potentially be delays to the remaining 9 due for Edwards Coaches this summer, depending on where they are in the manufacturing process. However, NX could prove to be a regular new customer going forward with the extra seating capacity / luggage space of the overdeck Altano's.