Seeing as the dawn of 2016 is nearly there and with it brings another batch of vehicles to NXWM (Fairly diverse) range fleet.
Does anyone have know anything confirmed routes/ garages where these vehicles will be new and which garages will be getting cascades ?! My personal opinion is that the Plaxtons will be rid of or at the very least be left in very small numbers and I hope the Suttons go Platinum.
Any takers and opinions ?!
Quote from: GeminiFan1991 on December 06, 2015, 05:26:13 PM
Seeing as the dawn of 2016 is nearly there and with it brings another batch of vehicles to NXWM (Fairly diverse) range fleet.
Does anyone have know anything confirmed routes/ garages where these vehicles will be new and which garages will be getting cascades ?! My personal opinion is that the Plaxtons will be rid of or at the very least be left in very small numbers and I hope the Suttons go Platinum.
Any takers and opinions ?!
I do agree, more Presidents will leave next year. I can see most, if not all of the order being Double Decker.
If i was hazarding a guess, i'd say new Double Deckers for WN (Their newest standard DD's are 11 years old!). I'd have a punt on the Suttons going Platinum.
Quote from: Nathan on December 06, 2015, 05:36:37 PM
If i was hazarding a guess, i'd say new Double Deckers for WN (Their newest standard DD's are 11 years old!).
126 possibly?
The newest Deckers at AG are also 11 years old. AG may possibly get a newer vehicle type next year.
Quote from: Nathan on December 06, 2015, 05:36:37 PM
Tbh, i don't even think NX would have decided what is on order for next year, let alone where the buses will be going.
I do agree, more Presidents will leave next year. I can see most, if not all of the order being Double Decker.
If i was hazarding a guess, i'd say new Double Deckers for WN (Their newest standard DD's are 11 years old!). I'd have a punt on the Suttons going Platinum.
Seeing as there are at least 27 Geminis now branded for the Outer Circle, if all of them were on the Circle at once, only 17 Presidents maximum could be on it.
This leaves 19 Presidents for the 1 (Gemini/President/E200 allocated) & 966 (Gemini/President), which is too much.
Basically it'll lead to either a lot of branded Geminis appearing elsewhere, or Presidents leaving real soon.
I think next year will see a new vehicle type introduced at Acocks Green though, which would be interesting.
I would expect the vast majority of new vehicles being delivered next year will be double-decks, and almost certainly will be Enviro400 MMCs.
Of course, we'll all have our own opinions on which routes will 'deserve' new buses, but I'm afraid that decision will not be down to us, but the management at NX.
No doubt the management team are already planning for the new emission requirements for double-deck buses in the SQP zone in 2017(?), so new bus deliveries and movements will be dictated by those requirements.
As the next oldest single decks are the 17xx I don't think there will be any new single decks unless the 17xx are sent to Dundee to replace older buses there like the B10BLEs.
More streetdecks xD
I think with a batch coming in with an accumulative value well into the millions, I like to think NX have a rough idea where they're going. I can't imagine they'll let them come before deciding.
It's also worth noting if the time with the Gemini 3 Demonstrator produces a few deliveries and not to mention the Streetdecks ! Enviro 400MMCs are almost guaranteed and in regards to the E200MMCs, Im sure NX would want them to come fully working this time round !
No more ADL products... pleasee
Hopefully
Volvo B8RLE's like Trent Barton has :)
I also expect the majority of next years orders to be double deckers and more than likely more E400MMC's.
I expect BC to gain a batch of new double deckers for either the Bristol Rd as the 97 now appears to be gaining refurbished Crimson Tridents - Y-reg Tridents out (34 still at BC)
I expect WN will gain a new Crimson fleet for the 126
YW will gain a batch of either new or nearly cascades as it must have one of the oldest double decker fleets with 13 x Presidents & 47 x Tridents (02/52 plate) = 60 from a total double decker allocation of 97. I'd expect those to go on the 2 & 3.
AG may gain a batch of new double deckers or newer cascades for the 5 & 31. Outer Circle will not receive anything new for some time with new branding only just being applied now. Presidents out
PB may gain a batch of Platinum's for Sutton Lines to compete against Arriva's 110 Sapphire route, 63 plate E400's cascaded on to 65/67 or 94 to release B7TL/ALX400's from PB
I'd expect Dundee to gain a small batch of new double deckers (max 10)
NXC may also gain a batch of new double deckers
The above will all be dependant on the outcome of the Greener Bus bids for Electric / Hydrogen Fuel Cell & retro-fitting 200 existing buses with Euro 6 traps.
Quote from: Liverpool Street on December 06, 2015, 06:15:28 PM
No more ADL products... pleasee
Volvo and Scania are the way forward! :D
Quote from: bensweeney14 on December 06, 2015, 06:29:56 PM
Volvo and Scania are the way forward! :D
Yes! Some variation!! That's what we need now. :D
Quote from: Liverpool Street on December 06, 2015, 06:34:19 PM
Yes! Some variation!! That's what we need now. :D
Just not single deck Volvo's because they are shite! IMO
Quote from: Dom on December 06, 2015, 06:36:01 PM
Just not single deck Volvo's because they are shite! IMO
You prefer e200 to b7rle? Are you ok?
Quote from: Trident 4194 on December 06, 2015, 06:41:30 PM
You prefer e200 to b7rle? Are you ok?
@Trident 4194 Did I say that? Yes I'm fine thank you.
Quote from: Dom on December 06, 2015, 06:47:47 PM
@Trident 4194 Did I say that? Yes I'm fine thank you.
You said single deck volvos are crap??
Quote from: Dom on December 06, 2015, 06:47:47 PM
@Trident 4194 Did I say that? Yes I'm fine thank you.
And most AG drivers actually give E200MMCs a glowing report
Quote from: Tony on December 06, 2015, 06:49:24 PM
And most AG drivers actually give E200MMCs a glowing report
I was on 2203 yesterday and while the start - stop thing gets getting used to with some passengers being puzzled, it gives a smooth ride, shame about the appearance !
Quote from: Tony on December 06, 2015, 06:49:24 PM
And most AG drivers actually give E200MMCs a glowing report
They haven't sampled the standard e200 either?
Quote from: bensweeney14 on December 06, 2015, 06:29:56 PM
Volvo and Scania are the way forward! :D
Good luck with getting Scania's, as unless the need to be gas powered you've got two hopes, Bob hope & no hope ;)
Quote from: Winston on December 06, 2015, 06:23:52 PM
I'd expect Dundee to gain a small batch of new double deckers (max 10)
I don't know really what the fleet is like up in Dundee, but I may not rule out the possibility of some new single-decks up there for certain routes, if there are still single-decks to be withdrawn. The West Midlands/Coventry single-deck fleet is fairly modern now, so unless new single-decks were bought in to upgrade routes such as the 4 here, some new single-decks could go direct to Dundee to withdraw older ones there.
Platinums on the 4/4H/4M or maybe the X96s (Streetlites xD)
Quote from: Stu on December 06, 2015, 06:57:03 PM
I don't know really what the fleet is like up in Dundee, but I may not rule out the possibility of some new single-decks up there for certain routes, if there are still single-decks to be withdrawn. The West Midlands/Coventry single-deck fleet is fairly modern now, so unless new single-decks were bought in to upgrade routes such as the 4 here, some new single-decks could go direct to Dundee to withdraw older ones there.
The remaining single deckers in Dundee need to go by 31st Dec 2015 due to being non DDA, the next oldest ones will then be same as NXWM i.e. 2006 B7RLE's
Quote from: Tony on December 06, 2015, 06:49:24 PM
And most AG drivers actually give E200MMCs a glowing report
I never said I didn't like them!!
What I said was I do not like either the NORMAL E200 or B7RLE
Quote from: Stu on December 06, 2015, 06:57:03 PM
I don't know really what the fleet is like up in Dundee, but I may not rule out the possibility of some new single-decks up there for certain routes, if there are still single-decks to be withdrawn. The West Midlands/Coventry single-deck fleet is fairly modern now, so unless new single-decks were bought in to upgrade routes such as the 4 here, some new single-decks could go direct to Dundee to withdraw older ones there.
Dundee needs more double deckers, not singles
Quote from: Chris on December 06, 2015, 06:59:45 PM
Platinums on the 4/4H/4M or maybe the X96s (Streetlites xD)
New E200MMC for the 4 would be a good shout, release some Scanias for elsewhere although I can't really imagine where beyond Pensnett or Wolves
Quote from: Kevin on December 06, 2015, 09:23:27 PM
New E200MMC for the 4 would be a good shout, release some Scanias for elsewhere although I can't really imagine where beyond Pensnett or Wolves
Please we don't want that Scania sh** at Pensnett.
Quote from: Kevin on December 06, 2015, 09:23:27 PM
New E200MMC for the 4 would be a good shout, release some Scanias for elsewhere although I can't really imagine where beyond Pensnett or Wolves
Possibly the YW 6 could get some new E200 MMC
Omnilinks to WB
I don't think Pensnett would get any Omnilinks
Quote from: Stuharris 6360 on December 06, 2015, 09:26:39 PM
Please we don't want that Scania sh** at Pensnett.
Scanias aren't shit. The ex AG batch at WB are in great nick and will only get better being in Crimson.
Next.
Was thinking E200MMC for WA for the 4/M/H and then some omnilinks to WN for 11,25,82. Before Dundeeing the remaing B7's and shipping them off to Dundee?
Quote from: uniquicity on December 06, 2015, 09:48:58 PM
Scanias aren't shit. The ex AG batch at WB are in great nick and will only get better being in Crimson.
Next.
I was gonna say. Send them WB for the 42/43, 45 & 49.
The 80, 83/89, 127/8 still use Euro 3 engines, although I have a feeling this won't be addressed until 2017
Quote from: Tony on December 06, 2015, 06:49:24 PM
And most AG drivers actually give E200MMCs a glowing report
Not in my experience they don't. Turning circle is terrible, drivers seat doesn't go low enough, the actual leather or fake leather gets uncomfortable after around 3 hours, and the steering feels heavy to turn, unlike Scania/volvo where you can literally turn the wheel with one finger. Most tend to say that.
Pros are you can get some decent speed out of them on the 71, doors are faster than Scanias, heaters are good, visibility all around and mirrors are good.
Quote from: Winston on December 06, 2015, 06:54:15 PM
Good luck with getting Scania's, as unless the need to be gas powered you've got two hopes, Bob hope & no hope ;)
The Scanias on the 6 are being put into Crimson I believe (I read that at some point on here I believe) so very unlikely they'll be replaced by E200MMCs - they're still excellent so no need for replacement. Much more pressing need for the Presidents to be retired at YW.
Haha - very true
@Winston - only other option apart from the gas and diesel E300 is the Irizar I3 body - which I must admit though does look good!
http://www.scania.co.uk/products/buses-coaches/bus-range/irizar-i3/
Quote from: Liberator9 on December 06, 2015, 10:34:42 PM
The Scanias on the 6 are being put into Crimson I believe (I read that at some point on here I believe) so very unlikely they'll be replaced by E200MMCs - they're still excellent so no need for replacement. Much more pressing need for the Presidents to be retired at YW.
Haha - very true @Winston - only other option apart from the gas and diesel E300 is the Irizar I3 body - which I must admit though does look good!
http://www.scania.co.uk/products/buses-coaches/bus-range/irizar-i3/
Looks very.... continental
Quote from: Liberator9 on December 06, 2015, 10:34:42 PM
The Scanias on the 6 are being put into Crimson I believe (I read that at some point on here I believe) so very unlikely they'll be replaced by E200MMCs - they're still excellent so no need for replacement. Much more pressing need for the Presidents to be retired at YW.
Haha - very true @Winston - only other option apart from the gas and diesel E300 is the Irizar I3 body - which I must admit though does look good!
http://www.scania.co.uk/products/buses-coaches/bus-range/irizar-i3/
The E300 body must be on borrowed time as the E200MMC comes on stream, as that model effectively replaces the diesel E300 option. There's only really Stagecoach that order Scania/E300
@Liberator9 I'm aware of the Irizar bus option, I don't really think it's a contender for any fleet orders. Menzies @ Heathrow have taken a smaller batch, other than that not sure of many others in the UK.
Quote from: Nathan on December 06, 2015, 05:36:37 PM
Tbh, i don't even think NX would have decided what is on order for next year
What's the lead time for a new bus anyway, a fortnight!
I read somewhere recently in 1980 it took seven weeks from placing the order to deliver Leyland Nationals!
Quote from: JoNi on December 07, 2015, 11:45:21 AM
I read somewhere recently in 1980 it took seven weeks from placing the order to deliver Leyland Nationals!
I would guess, it may take approx 6 wks for bodying a bus, the chassis has to be made first on top of that. As there's is no shortage of orders currently, I'd be surprised if they could start production as soon as an order was placed, I would expect a 3-6 month lead time for new orders. NX have already provisionally agreed their annual bus requirements with ADL via their multi year deal, and therefore will already have a production slot allocated / booked.
The only way you would get a new bus within 2 weeks is either via rental or buying dealer stock, even that may be tight....
Quote from: JoNi on December 07, 2015, 11:45:21 AM
I read somewhere recently in 1980 it took seven weeks from placing the order to deliver Leyland Nationals!
I remember back in 1974 British Leyland said in effect 'you can have Nationals in 5 weeks but the Fleetlines that you really want will take 5 years'. And they did. The thing was Nationals were mass produced and all the same, more or less. We don't want to go back there!
I drew a side view of a Leyland National to which I was told "you've left all the poxy rivets off".
Quote from: JoNi on December 07, 2015, 09:09:26 PM
I drew a side view of a Leyland National to which I was told "you've left all the poxy rivets off".
Hahahaha very apt!!
Quote from: Winston on December 07, 2015, 12:00:56 PM
I would guess, it may take approx 6 wks for bodying a bus, the chassis has to be made first on top of that. As there's is no shortage of orders currently, I'd be surprised if they could start production as soon as an order was placed, I would expect a 3-6 month lead time for new orders. NX have already provisionally agreed their annual bus requirements with ADL via their multi year deal, and therefore will already have a production slot allocated / booked.
The only way you would get a new bus within 2 weeks is either via rental or buying dealer stock, even that may be tight....
Exactly. What I was really highlighting was the naive view that some seem to hold, i.e. that National Express hasn't considered what it's doing in 2016, less than a month before 2016 starts.
Quote from: The Real 4778 on December 08, 2015, 11:28:44 AM
Exactly. What I was really highlighting was the naive view that some seem to hold, i.e. that National Express hasn't considered what it's doing in 2016, less than a month before 2016 starts.
I'd have thought that orders will have been provisionally placed & production slots reserved, allocations will still more than likely change right up to the last minute
My personal reckoning is the Suttons going Platinum which will displace the E400s on their onto 65/67 whose Gemini's will make their way to AG alongside (Probably) the 94
Quote from: GeminiFan1991 on December 08, 2015, 05:09:48 PM
My personal reckoning is the Suttons going Platinum which will displace the E400s on their onto 65/67 whose Gemini's will make their way to AG alongside (Probably) the 94
So if and when the 6 11 boards move to PB what would they use on it?
I would of thought it would be the Gemini
@GeminiFan1991 16, 94 or, 101 could possibly move out of PB?
Quote from: 2206 on December 08, 2015, 05:13:51 PM
So if and when the 6 11 boards move to PB what would they use on it?
I would of thought it would be the Gemini
@GeminiFan1991
PB need to loose the 35 x 51 plate B7TL/ALX400's before anymore Gemini's
Quote from: Winston on December 08, 2015, 05:16:19 PM
PB need to loose the 35 x 51 plate B7TL/ALX400's before anymore Gemini's
Maybe the Alx 400/b7tl will be split between WB (5) and YW (49 and 76). Are the presidents on their final year?, will we start to see the withdrawal of the Y reg tridents or send them to dundee?
Quote from: Chris on December 08, 2015, 05:52:18 PM
Maybe the Alx 400/b7tl will be split between WB (5) and YW (49 and 76). Are the presidents on their final year?, will we start to see the withdrawal of the Y reg tridents or send them to dundee?
Another idea. MMC's on the 51 and 33. 61 plates from those onto B7/ALX routes. B7/ALX to WB for Presidents and also WA to displace Tridents to YW for their Presidents.
Quote from: Ashley 60171 on December 08, 2015, 06:11:10 PM
Another idea. MMC's on the 51 and 33. 61 plates from those onto B7/ALX routes. B7/ALX to WB for Presidents and also WA to displace Tridents to YW for their Presidents.
WB already has 24 on it's own B7TL/ALX400's some of which may need to be moved off central B'ham routes
Quote from: Winston on December 06, 2015, 06:23:52 PM
I also expect the majority of next years orders to be double deckers and more than likely more E400MMC's.
I expect BC to gain a batch of new double deckers for either the Bristol Rd as the 97 now appears to be gaining refurbished Crimson Tridents - Y-reg Tridents out (34 still at BC)
I expect WN will gain a new Crimson fleet for the 126
YW will gain a batch of either new or nearly cascades as it must have one of the oldest double decker fleets with 13 x Presidents & 47 x Tridents (02/52 plate) = 60 from a total double decker allocation of 97. I'd expect those to go on the 2 & 3.
AG may gain a batch of new double deckers or newer cascades for the 5 & 31. Outer Circle will not receive anything new for some time with new branding only just being applied now. Presidents out
PB may gain a batch of Platinum's for Sutton Lines to compete against Arriva's 110 Sapphire route, 63 plate E400's cascaded on to 65/67 or 94 to release B7TL/ALX400's from PB
I'd expect Dundee to gain a small batch of new double deckers (max 10)
NXC may also gain a batch of new double deckers
The above will all be dependant on the outcome of the Greener Bus bids for Electric / Hydrogen Fuel Cell & retro-fitting 200 existing buses with Euro 6 traps.
Its like you read my mind
YW will need to have something emissions compliant for 2017 for the 2 and 3 routes - Tridents woouldn't be suitable - more likely require some E400s or something new would be even better. Then the displaced Tridents off the 2 and 3 would replace the Presidents there.
It's fair to say wherever the buses get allocated, NXWM will need a lot of buses
I was thinking to myself
would NXWM decide to purchase from Wrightbus order Streetlites or Streetdecks
Quote from: James4368 on December 16, 2015, 04:37:18 PM
I was thinking to myself
would NXWM decide to purchase from Wrightbus order Streetlites or Streetdecks
IF they did, I really doubt Streetlites. No real need for new single decks atm but plenty of doubles to replace Presidents and maybe early Tridents
Quote from: Kevin on December 20, 2015, 11:19:15 AM
IF they did, I really doubt Streetlites. No real need for new single decks atm but plenty of doubles to replace Presidents and maybe early Tridents
About Streetlites. Withybrook rumours of a Wrens Nest and Wollaston Farm circular and the X96 doing Stourbridge to Durley there may be a need for them as B7's wouldn't really be needed for such short routes and with the regular E200's are they still being made?
Quote from: WN on December 20, 2015, 11:26:39 AM
About Streetlites. Withybrook rumours of a Wrens Nest and Wollaston Farm circular and the X96 doing Stourbridge to Durley there may be a need for them as B7's wouldn't really be needed for such short routes and with the regular E200's are they still being made?
I hope the e200s have stop being made!!!
I wonder if CVs Citaros will make it to 2017. If not, I guess there will be plenty of buses that could replace them.
Also wonder whether CV might get a few singles, as there are some routes that are better suited to them that currently use deckers.
Quote from: WN on December 20, 2015, 11:26:39 AM
About Streetlites. Withybrook rumours of a Wrens Nest and Wollaston Farm circular and the X96 doing Stourbridge to Durley there may be a need for them as B7's wouldn't really be needed for such short routes and with the regular E200's are they still being made?
Just the new E200 MMC being built now.
Quote from: Stu on December 20, 2015, 12:27:56 PM
Just the new E200 MMC being built now.
Just a thought, and some very wishful thinking - but single deck Platinums? I know it's silly, and obviously won't happen anytime soon - but like I said, just a thought. Of course, only because Arriva Sapphire, Stagecoach Gold, etc... has both double and single deck operations. Unfortunately, I can't think of any single deck service which could benefit from SD Platinums. 58?
Quote from: Stu on December 20, 2015, 12:27:56 PM
Just the new E200 MMC being built now.
@Stu they are still building Euro 5 E200's alongside Euro 6 E200MMC's at present, not sure for how much longer though.
EYMS have just taken some:
https://www.eyms.co.uk/enthusiasts/vehicle?intvehicleid=2532
https://www.eyms.co.uk/enthusiasts/vehicle?intvehicleid=2528
https://www.eyms.co.uk/enthusiasts/vehicle?intvehicleid=2529
https://www.eyms.co.uk/enthusiasts/vehicle?intvehicleid=2530
https://www.eyms.co.uk/enthusiasts/vehicle?intvehicleid=2531
Uno are currently in the process of receiving 10 new Euro 5 E200's (5 each for Hatfield & Northampton)
Quote from: Winston on December 20, 2015, 01:58:48 PM
@Stu they are still building Euro 5 E200's alongside Euro 6 E200MMC's at present, not sure for how much longer though.
EYMS have just taken some:
https://www.eyms.co.uk/enthusiasts/vehicle?intvehicleid=2532
https://www.eyms.co.uk/enthusiasts/vehicle?intvehicleid=2528
https://www.eyms.co.uk/enthusiasts/vehicle?intvehicleid=2529
https://www.eyms.co.uk/enthusiasts/vehicle?intvehicleid=2530
https://www.eyms.co.uk/enthusiasts/vehicle?intvehicleid=2531
Uno are currently in the process of receiving 10 new Euro 5 E200's (5 each for Hatfield & Northampton)
They'll probably be the last ones then, as its no longer listed on the ADL website (except as the E200H), only the Euro6 model (MMC):
http://www.alexander-dennis.com/category/single-deck-bus/
Quote from: James4368 on December 20, 2015, 06:33:21 PM
would be good if BC 58/59 had a upgrade from BX12 B7's
Why, for god sake?
Three year old buses?
Quote from: Tony on December 20, 2015, 06:34:14 PM
Why, for god sake?
Three year old buses?
@Tony it was only a suggestion
I like having B7's on 58/59
Quote from: James4368 on December 20, 2015, 06:35:30 PM
@Tony
it was only a suggestion
I like having B7's on 58/59
So why would it be nice for an upgrade if you like the current buses?
Quote from: Tony on December 20, 2015, 06:48:41 PM
So why would it be nice for an upgrade if you like the current buses?
@Tony doesn't matter now
I was just thinking that's all
Has any announcements been made yet on new deliveries this year, or for what routes yet?
Quote from: BN on January 30, 2016, 02:43:01 PM
Has any announcements been made yet on new deliveries this year, or for what routes yet?
Not yet other than there will be more than 60 Platinum and they will serve all 4 districts of the Black Country
Quote from: Tony on January 30, 2016, 03:43:40 PM
Not yet other than there will be more than 60 Platinum and they will serve all 4 districts of the Black Country
Any idea on when we can expect an announcement?
Quote from: Tony on January 30, 2016, 03:43:40 PM
Not yet other than there will be more than 60 Platinum and they will serve all 4 districts of the Black Country
Thanks Tony.
Maybe February for a March Delivery like they did last year for 9s
I personally reckon west brom will get something new for the 5 service. Surely the presidents and 42** deckers will be moved on at some point due to their age. Currently the oldest buses running in to sutton!
Quote from: WB on January 30, 2016, 04:44:31 PM
I personally reckon west brom will get something new for the 5 service. Surely the presidents and 42** deckers will be moved on at some point due to their age. Currently the oldest buses running in to sutton!
I think the 47** Gemini could possibly move onto the 5.
@WB They could possibly be branded for it as well.
They seem to be using those on anything going at the minute. Only time will tell :)
Any hybrid vehicles??
Quote from: WB on January 30, 2016, 04:44:31 PM
I personally reckon west brom will get something new for the 5 service. Surely the presidents and 42** deckers will be moved on at some point due to their age. Currently the oldest buses running in to sutton!
The 6 and 77 still get presidents
Quote from: BU07 LGO on January 30, 2016, 06:03:45 PM
The 6 and 77 still get presidents
But also get E400s / Platinums
Quote from: WN on January 30, 2016, 06:12:34 PM
But also get E400s / Platinums
The 6 dosen't get Platinums though its mostly B7TL ALX00 and Tridents whenever I see it.
Quote from: 2206 on January 30, 2016, 06:27:03 PM
The 6 dosen't get Platinums though its mostly B7TL ALX00 and Tridents whenever I see it.
Which is why I included E400. It does often have E400's on it. For example last Saturday.
Quote from: Trident 4194 on January 30, 2016, 05:17:41 PM
Any hybrid vehicles??
I've just said all that has been announced
Interesting that all 4 districts in the Black Country to get platinums
Question I ask which routes merits them I can't think of any
Quote from: 2900 on January 31, 2016, 08:59:18 AM
Interesting that all 4 districts in the Black Country to get platinums
Question I ask which routes merits them I can't think of any
Dudley/Sandwell review...... Could be new routes ;)
Quote from: 2206 on January 30, 2016, 04:47:32 PM
I think the 47** Gemini could possibly move onto the 5. @WB
They could possibly be branded for it as well.
the 4700 Gemini,s are due a refurb most are on there original seat cushions which is nearly ten years old , these were cruelly treated to the red over white quite hastily back then crap job as well, 4711/16 had full refurbs a few years back no doubt these will also get redone.
Quote from: 2900 on January 31, 2016, 08:59:18 AM
Interesting that all 4 districts in the Black Country to get platinums
Question I ask which routes merits them I can't think of any
well ive been told that WN are having a batch of platinum's for the 529, 126. Make of that what you will, im not convinced personally but that's the rumour
Quote from: BU07 LGO on January 31, 2016, 01:57:33 PM
well ive been told that WN are having a batch of platinum's for the 529, 126. Make of that what you will, im not convinced personally but that's the rumour
I've also heard the same regarding the 126, it'll be interesting to see where the Trident get cascaded to if it indeed happens
Quote from: pndriver on January 31, 2016, 09:03:01 AM
Dudley/Sandwell review...... Could be new routes ;)
@pndriver , what's the latest on Dudley / Sandwell Review? Is it still on course for changes to be implemented April?
126 makes sense to go platinum, long journey extra comfort and wifi.
529 would be interesting....
Would be so good if the 126 rumour is true... Another one that I was thinking about that may have potentiential for upgrades to platinum could be the 140/141 for Dudley or even the 4/4H/4M, this is ofcourse just an opinion and not based on any rumour or prior knowledge.
Quote from: danny on January 31, 2016, 05:49:08 PM
Would be so good if the 126 rumour is true... Another one that I was thinking about that may have potentiential for upgrades to platinum could be the 140/141 for Dudley or even the 4/4H/4M, this is ofcourse just an opinion and not based on any rumour or prior knowledge.
4H/4M may get single deck platinums
Quote from: danny on January 31, 2016, 05:49:08 PM
Would be so good if the 126 rumour is true... Another one that I was thinking about that may have potentiential for upgrades to platinum could be the 140/141 for Dudley or even the 4/4H/4M, this is ofcourse just an opinion and not based on any rumour or prior knowledge.
I'd have thought the 9 would be far more likely to be upgraded to Platinum over the 140/141, especially if the 126 does end up going Platinum.
I was thinking more for the merry hill link Winston but I can see your point the 9 would be a good choice also.
Quote from: danny on January 31, 2016, 07:55:53 PM
I was thinking more for the merry hill link Winston but I can see your point the 9 would be a good choice also.
I can see your point also, Platinum buses might encourage more people to switch from car journeys to bus to Merry Hill, on saying that Intu really need to provide a decent bus station / bus priorities to the centre first. I'd consider the core Hagley Rd services to be the 9 & 126
Quote from: danny on January 31, 2016, 05:49:08 PM
Would be so good if the 126 rumour is true... Another one that I was thinking about that may have potentiential for upgrades to platinum could be the 140/141 for Dudley or even the 4/4H/4M, this is ofcourse just an opinion and not based on any rumour or prior knowledge.
I suppose if they did go platinum it would give drivers on the 9 something nice to look at in the mirrors ::)
Intu are doing a few changes and got things planned that westfield never did, Bus station included i believe. There one thing i always thought about is if the station is closed where is all the buses guna go? Would be nice if 141 goes platinum but will have to see where these 60 platinums will go
Quote from: Winston on January 31, 2016, 08:14:08 PM
I can see your point also, Platinum buses might encourage more people to switch from car journeys to bus to Merry Hill, on saying that Intu really need to provide a decent bus station / bus priorities to the centre first. I'd consider the core Hagley Rd services to be the 9 & 126
I agree merry hill should have bus only lanes it they can widen the road there to help keeo them on time dy=ue the amount of cars at merry hiil at certain times of the day
Quote from: Solo1 on January 31, 2016, 10:14:30 PM
I agree merry hill should have bus only lanes it they can widen the road there to help keeo them on time dy=ue the amount of cars at merry hiil at certain times of the day
Won't stop them parking on the yellow box on the roundabout. Doesn't stop them having 2 wheels in the bus lane there now, they sail through the red light at the top of the bus priority lane too.
Out of curiosity what would the pvr be of 126 and 529? Ive also heard Walsall are due 4 more platinum. Apparently...
Quote from: BU07 LGO on February 01, 2016, 07:34:37 PM
Out of curiosity what would the pvr be of 126 and 529? Ive also heard Walsall are due 4 more platinum. Apparently...
X51/x56 board maybe
Quote from: BU07 LGO on February 01, 2016, 07:34:37 PM
Out of curiosity what would the pvr be of 126 and 529? Ive also heard Walsall are due 4 more platinum. Apparently...
126 pvr is 22 (20 all day and two come out in the afternoon after doing a school)
The 529 has 14 running boards altogether (Think there is two that go back in a morning and two come out in the afternoon)
Quote from: WN on February 01, 2016, 07:56:36 PM
Wouldn't need 4 buses.
Didn't BU07LGO mention a while back that it may be due to an increase in frequency of the X51 to 7/8 minutes? Or did I imagine that?
Quote from: Mike K on February 01, 2016, 11:31:12 PM
Didn't BU07LGO mention a while back that it may be due to an increase in frequency of the X51 to 7/8 minutes? Or did I imagine that?
I recall that being mentioned somewhere too
Quote from: Mike K on February 01, 2016, 11:31:12 PM
Didn't BU07LGO mention a while back that it may be due to an increase in frequency of the X51 to 7/8 minutes? Or did I imagine that?
Yeah that's what a few of the older drivers have said!
The spare MMCs tend to wind up on the 77 so if we used them, I'd surmise we'd only require a few vehicles
I agree regarding the 126 - would neatly enable all of Wolverhampton's oldest Tridents to be replaced.
Is it possible the West Bromwich 5 couldn't gain a dozen Platinums?
Is there a technical reason why the 4 needs single deck buses? If not it could go platinum with double deckers - not sure what would happen to the single deckers as NXWM don't need any to cascade at the moment.
In terms of vehicle replacement, I would expect the worst condition Plaxtons and first batch Tridents to be withdrawn.
New buses likely in March like last year?
Quote from: don on February 03, 2016, 09:00:51 AM
I agree regarding the 126 - would neatly enable all of Wolverhampton's oldest Tridents to be replaced.
Is it possible the West Bromwich 5 couldn't gain a dozen Platinums?
Is there a technical reason why the 4 needs single deck buses? If not it could go platinum with double deckers - not sure what would happen to the single deckers as NXWM don't need any to cascade at the moment.
In terms of vehicle replacement, I would expect the worst condition Plaxtons and first batch Tridents to be withdrawn.
New buses likely in March like last year?
It is more likely the remaing 46** and some of the 45** Tridents move to BC for exhaust trap fitting.
Wouldn't rule out if the 45XX and 46XX were to move out some going to YW - YW are going to need something to use on the 2 and 3 that is emissions compliant in , and able to replace the Presidents.
Quote from: don on February 03, 2016, 09:00:51 AM
I agree regarding the 126 - would neatly enable all of Wolverhampton's oldest Tridents to be replaced.
Is it possible the West Bromwich 5 couldn't gain a dozen Platinums?
Is there a technical reason why the 4 needs single deck buses? If not it could go platinum with double deckers - not sure what would happen to the single deckers as NXWM don't need any to cascade at the moment.
In terms of vehicle replacement, I would expect the worst condition Plaxtons and first batch Tridents to be withdrawn.
New buses likely in March like last year?
I can't see WB5 going Platinum any time soon! The rumour circulating at the moment is the WB 47** Gemini's could replace the President's and ALX400's on WB5.
I'm wondering if the 966 could go platinum with a few tweaks, like the original timesaver 966. Reason I say this part of centros a452 regeneration plan. If at one end changed the route to city centre giving castle vale fast route to city( or a variant ) links to nec which is having investment etc. All about encouraging people out of their cars links to jaguar and land rover etc. wouldn't work on me but with right marketing and route adjustment definitely has potential.
Quote from: monkeyjoe on February 03, 2016, 07:07:21 PM
I'm wondering if the 966 could go platinum with a few tweaks, like the original timesaver 966. Reason I say this part of centros a452 regeneration plan. If at one end changed the route to city centre giving castle vale fast route to city( or a variant ) links to nec which is having investment etc. All about encouraging people out of their cars links to jaguar and land rover etc. wouldn't work on me but with right marketing and route adjustment definitely has potential.
The 38 could possibly be rerouted to serve the city centre? Can't see the 966 get Platinum, maybe some of the Crimson Gemini could be branded for it?
Quote from: Michael Bevan on February 03, 2016, 02:58:55 PM
I can't see WB5 going Platinum any time soon! The rumour circulating at the moment is the WB 47** Gemini's could replace the President's and ALX400's on WB5.
I can't see why not - combined with Platinum Sutton Lines routes, it would target high car use areas on inter urban services and provide a good image for NXWM in Sutton. It would also provide a platinum route into the centre of West Bromwich.
I would have thought the 47xx would be prime candidates for particulate traps for the routes into Birmingham. Any new vehicles on Sutton Lines would no doubt cascade Enviros to replace BCs old Tridents - not sure why they would need more from Wolverhampton. No doubt we will have to wait and see...
Quote from: don on February 03, 2016, 07:49:10 PM
I can't see why not - combined with Platinum Sutton Lines routes, it would target high car use areas on inter urban services and provide a good image for NXWM in Sutton. It would also provide a platinum route into the centre of West Bromwich.
I would have thought the 47xx would be prime candidates for particulate traps for the routes into Birmingham. Any new vehicles on Sutton Lines would no doubt cascade Enviros to replace BCs old Tridents - not sure why they would need more from Wolverhampton. No doubt we will have to wait and see...
As 4595 and 4596 are now at BC at some point 4595 - 4607 could possibly also transfer to BC if the 529 gets Platinum. Then some of the B7RLE could transfer to Wolverhampton. Does the 29 still get any Volvo B7RLEs? Or replace some of the older tridents at BC. There are only 26 63 plate E400 at BC so not enough to replace all the Y reg Tridents.
Quote from: 2206 on February 03, 2016, 07:56:35 PM
As 4595 and 4596 are now at BC at some point 4595 - 4607 could possibly also transfer to BC if the 529 gets Platinum.
Then some of the B7RLE could transfer to Wolverhampton. Dose the 29 still get any Volvo B7RLEs?
Why would BC need to lose more single deckers? if any more WN 04/54 plate Tridents go in to BC it will most likely be Y-reg Tridents that are replaced
Anybody that thinks that 529 deserves Platinums has definitely sniffed the stuff that gets smoked on there?
What is this obsession with Platinum?second time of asking and second time of reminding that it's like toilet paper in most part of the midlands.
Quote from: Ashley 60171 on February 03, 2016, 08:01:04 PM
Anybody that thinks that 529 deserves Platinums has definitely sniffed the stuff that gets smoked on there?
What is this obsession with Platinum?second time of asking and second time of reminding that it's like toilet paper in most part of the midlands.
That last bit made me chuckle. To be honest, I would've thought the 126 would be a top contender for new buses, if it were Platinums, that'd be a bonus.
As I see it, Platinum doesn't have to be restricted to express or limited-stop services, but if it is to be expanded across the Black Country, I can see it being rolled out to what people would consider 'key' link routes between Black Country towns/areas.
For example, while I'm not that familiar with the 529 route, it could be seen as a 'key' bus link between Walsall and Wolverhampton. And likewise, the 4 could be seen also as a 'key' link, moving people between Walsall, West Bromwich, Oldbury and Blackheath (as well as onto Halesowen/Merry Hill).
I could also see the 126 being considered for the Platinum concept, being as it links Wolverhampton, Dudley, Oldbury (to an extent) and Birmingham.
However I'm not sure though whether Platinum could/would be rolled out to single-deck routes, as I believe that would leave NX with a surplus of single-deck vehicles that do not yet need to be withdrawn, not while there are so many older double-decks that need to be dealt with.
Quote from: Stu on February 03, 2016, 08:16:59 PM
As I see it, Platinum doesn't have to be restricted to express or limited-stop services, but if it is to be expanded across the Black Country, I can see it being rolled out to what people would consider 'key' link routes between Black Country towns/areas.
For example, while I'm not that familiar with the 529 route, it could be seen as a 'key' bus link between Walsall and Wolverhampton. And likewise, the 4 could be seen also as a 'key' link, moving people between Walsall, West Bromwich, Oldbury and Blackheath (as well as onto Halesowen/Merry Hill).
I could also see the 126 being considered for the Platinum concept, being as it links Wolverhampton, Dudley, Oldbury (to an extent) and Birmingham.
However I'm not sure though whether Platinum could/would be rolled out to single-deck routes, as I believe that would leave NX with a surplus of single-deck vehicles that do not yet need to be withdrawn, not while there are so many older double-decks that need to be dealt with.
I agree here. But referring back to what Ashley mentioned, I think there is quite an obsession with Platinums. I mean, there's more Platinums on the road than the normal spec MMCs. Whilst I can respect that its to do with the PVR (etc), my opinion is that the novelty has sort of worn off. Of course, the ratio of non-Platinum buses to the Platinums are far greater; I was mainly focusing on the differences of the MMC specifications, and the balance between high spec and normal spec MMCs on the road. :)
The Platinum concept I agree could be rolled out on just your average key corridors like the Walsall 4. But the 529 as much as it's a key link, it's rife with anti social behaviour and fare evasion. It would be like having a Stagecoach Gold route in Salford.
Quote from: Ashley 60171 on February 03, 2016, 09:01:53 PM
The Platinum concept I agree could be rolled out on just your average key corridors like the Walsall 4. But the 529 as much as it's a key link, it's rife with anti social behaviour and fare evasion. It would be like having a Stagecoach Gold route in Salford.
Yes, of course you know the percentage of fare evasion don't you!
Perhaps the novelty may have worn off for bus spotters, but all over the country quality services are the ones actually increasing numbers.
One minute NXWM needs to improve the quality of its services, then it doesn't!
I would expect to see Platinum buses on 902, 904 and 905.
The 907 and 914 possibly but I doubt it, my route is the 907 and I can't see this neglected route gaining Platinum buses.
The 126 must be a contender, perhaps with a route change to make it faster (how I don't know !!!)
It'll be quite the route upgrade if the 5 went from Plaxtons to Platinums !
All I,ve ever heard from the people that use buses to blackheath is we never get any new buses it's always hand me downs from the Birmingham garages , I should point out these comments come from people who used the old 128/129 and now the 89 service.
Saying that a few years a go while waiting in blackheath I had refurbished plaxton the chap I was chatting to couldn't believe it was a 15 year old bus, he was most impressed, when done properly refurbs work just as well as a new bus. A new bus has a much bigger carbon foot print than one already knocking about.
Plaxtons on the 83/89 have become rare now.
Quote from: 2900 on February 04, 2016, 11:37:15 AM
All I,ve ever heard from the people that use buses to blackheath is we never get any new buses it's always hand me downs from the Birmingham garages , I should point out these comments come from people who used the old 128/129 and now the 89 service.
Saying that a few years a go while waiting in blackheath I had refurbished plaxton the chap I was chatting to couldn't believe it was a 15 year old bus, he was most impressed, when done properly refurbs work just as well as a new bus. A new bus has a much bigger carbon foot print than one already knocking about.
Plaxtons on the 83/89 have become rare now.
How would the average passenger know which garage a bus has come from? They could easily have come from any garage on the system.
Quote from: Gareth on February 04, 2016, 01:32:00 PM
How would the average passenger know which garage a bus has come from? They could easily have come from any garage on the system.
you don't have to be a bus nut to see what's going on ,Birmingham garages do tend to have the newer buses , some of these pensioners have more knowledge about the bus network and buses than most on this forum. Not all are just your average passenger.
There was a time when most deckers at west brom garage were from Hockley, Perry Barr, acocks green, central ,yardley wood, all Birmingham garages , only new deckers to west brom up to till 18 months a go were the 4700 Gemini
Hope that answers your ?
Quote from: GeminiFan1991 on February 04, 2016, 07:00:05 AM
It'll be quite the route upgrade if the 5 went from Plaxtons to Platinums !
Albeit nice condition, fully branded Plaxtons. I don't think it's sustainable for all the new buses to go on routes where the buses are already nearly new, given the level of investment happening currently. It becomes a waste of resources and time changing branding (which is why I can't see the 529 being upgraded).
It would be interesting if the Bristol Road had new buses - either crimson ..... could it be platimun (I doubt it) - it seems to have gone out of favour for new vehicles on the Bristol Road in recent years, having some of the oldest buses in the fleet currently. Back in the day (60s and 1970), by quirk of fate, the Bristol Road had new buses three years on the run - crew operated, non driver only fitted KOX F (Park Royals), replaced by NOV-G (one man driver only conversion on the same day man landed on the moon); SOE-H Jumbos (larger capacity driver only buses) - one of the quirks of fate was the buses intended for the 8 couldn't be used on it because the normal approved height for buses for Government grant assistance wouldn't go under some of the bridges (increasing bus height was possibly another LT driven disaster, they had yet to experience front-loading, rear engined buses except as an experiment at the time) - the subsequent standard WMPTE bus was a lower height, approved by the Ministry for grant assistance and solved the problem - the SO NOV-Gs went to the Pershore Road, replacing the CE Met Camm KOX-F (the garage had the entire batch as more or less its sole allocation from new - possibly unique in the West Midlands) many of which went to LS and HY for the 8! And WMPTE led the country in learning that to operate safely (there was a fatality on the Bristol Road), 2 door buses required interlocks which rendered them slower to load/unload than a one door bus, leading to 2 door buses going out of fashion largely the country over (notable exception, London....)
Back on topic......
The reason I have said 4, 5 and 126 is that the 4 travels through the districts of Walsall, Sandwell and Dudley, the 126, Wolverhampton, Dudley, Sandwell and City of Birmingham and I don't believe NXWM would dare claim that platinum serves all the black country districts without at least one route travelling through the centre of each - the 4 and 126 would meet that expectation except West Bromwich, hence saying WB 5 also - we will see in due course!!
Quote from: don on February 04, 2016, 02:10:38 PM
Albeit nice condition, fully branded Plaxtons. I don't think it's sustainable for all the new buses to go on routes where the buses are already nearly new, given the level of investment happening currently. It becomes a waste of resources and time changing branding (which is why I can't see the 529 being upgraded).
It would be interesting if the Bristol Road had new buses - either crimson ..... could it be platimun (I doubt it) - it seems to have gone out of favour for new vehicles on the Bristol Road in recent years, having some of the oldest buses in the fleet currently. Back in the day (60s and 1970), by quirk of fate, the Bristol Road had new buses three years on the run - crew operated, non driver only fitted KOX F (Park Royals), replaced by NOV-G (one man driver only conversion on the same day man landed on the moon); SOE-H Jumbos (larger capacity driver only buses) - one of the quirks of fate was the buses intended for the 8 couldn't be used on it because the normal approved height for buses for Government grant assistance wouldn't go under some of the bridges (increasing bus height was possibly another LT driven disaster, they had yet to experience front-loading, rear engined buses except as an experiment at the time) - the subsequent standard WMPTE bus was a lower height, approved by the Ministry for grant assistance and solved the problem - the SO NOV-Gs went to the Pershore Road, replacing the CE Met Camm KOX-F (the garage had the entire batch as more or less its sole allocation from new - possibly unique in the West Midlands) many of which went to LS and HY for the 8! And WMPTE led the country in learning that to operate safely (there was a fatality on the Bristol Road), 2 door buses required interlocks which rendered them slower to load/unload than a one door bus, leading to 2 door buses going out of fashion largely the country over (notable exception, London....)
Back on topic......
The reason I have said 4, 5 and 126 is that the 4 travels through the districts of Walsall, Sandwell and Dudley, the 126, Wolverhampton, Dudley, Sandwell and City of Birmingham and I don't believe NXWM would dare claim that platinum serves all the black country districts without at least one route travelling through the centre of each - the 4 and 126 would meet that expectation except West Bromwich, hence saying WB 5 also - we will see in due course!!
The 4 serves West Bromwich
Quote from: Ashley 60171 on February 03, 2016, 09:01:53 PM
The Platinum concept I agree could be rolled out on just your average key corridors like the Walsall 4. But the 529 as much as it's a key link, it's rife with anti social behaviour and fare evasion. It would be like having a Stagecoach Gold route in Salford.
I believe Stagecoach West had a spate of issues I think on the 10 which is Gold and threatened to pull the buses off the route if vandalism continued. From what I understand the threat worked as they are still on there now.
Quote from: Nathan on February 04, 2016, 02:25:37 PM
The 4 serves West Bromwich
True - for some bizarre reason I thought it went through Wednesbury!! The other thing against the 4 being converted is what would be done with the displaced single deckers - short of converting existing double deck routes to single deck or selling the oldest single deckers, neither of which would seem sensible, it seems to pose a problem!! Cascade of B7s to Dundee possibly? Some double deckers replaced single deckers up there recently?
Quote from: don on February 04, 2016, 03:23:09 PM
True - for some bizarre reason I thought it went through Wednesbury!! The other thing against the 4 being converted is what would be done with the displaced single deckers - short of converting existing double deck routes to single deck or selling the oldest single deckers, neither of which would seem sensible, it seems to pose a problem!! Cascade of B7s to Dundee possibly? Some double deckers replaced single deckers up there recently?
I would have thought the 4 would have been 'Crimsoned' with its Omnilinks. If the 4 were to have new buses, i would have also said about the remaining B7RLE's at WA joining the rest of the batch at Dundee.
Quote from: Nathan on February 04, 2016, 03:44:59 PM
i would have also said about the remaining B7RLE's at WA joining the rest of the batch at Dundee.
Replacing what?
Quote from: Stu on February 03, 2016, 08:16:59 PM
As I see it, Platinum doesn't have to be restricted to express or limited-stop services, but if it is to be expanded across the Black Country, I can see it being rolled out to what people would consider 'key' link routes between Black Country towns/areas.
For example, while I'm not that familiar with the 529 route, it could be seen as a 'key' bus link between Walsall and Wolverhampton. And likewise, the 4 could be seen also as a 'key' link, moving people between Walsall, West Bromwich, Oldbury and Blackheath (as well as onto Halesowen/Merry Hill).
I could also see the 126 being considered for the Platinum concept, being as it links Wolverhampton, Dudley, Oldbury (to an extent) and Birmingham.
However I'm not sure though whether Platinum could/would be rolled out to single-deck routes, as I believe that would leave NX with a surplus of single-deck vehicles that do not yet need to be withdrawn, not while there are so many older double-decks that need to be dealt with.
Isn't the 9 a key route? Can't see that going platinum
Quote from: don on February 04, 2016, 02:10:38 PM
Albeit nice condition, fully branded Plaxtons. I don't think it's sustainable for all the new buses to go on routes where the buses are already nearly new, given the level of investment happening currently. It becomes a waste of resources and time changing branding (which is why I can't see the 529 being upgraded).
Why can't you see the 529 being upgraded. It uses 11 year old tridents which were branded in March 2013. (Nearly 3 years ago)
The E400s new to BC in 2013 were branded for the 957 and 900 in August 2013 and they are no longer branded for the 900/957 and branded for the Pershore Road.
Arriva successfully upgrades existing vehicles to Sapphire standard, but there is never any mention of NX upgrading existing vehicles just slap on a bit of paint on the outside!
Quote from: JoNi on February 04, 2016, 05:02:30 PM
Arriva successfully upgrades existing vehicles to Sapphire standard, but there is never any mention of NX upgrading existing vehicles just slap it of paint on the outside!
They change the seats over though!
They change the covers which is not the same
Genuinely can't really think of anywhere the Omnilinks from the 4 could go if it did revert to deckers. Unless NX started making a thing about upgrading current decker routes to higher frequency but lower capacity buses? Something like the WN 82 or the WB 5 pop into mind as potentials for that
Quote from: Kiewii on February 04, 2016, 04:17:17 PM
Replacing what?
Presidents? It seems some of the recent double deck reallocations replaced single decks. I would have thought it unlikely though.
Quote from: 2206 on February 04, 2016, 04:46:30 PM
Why can't you see the 529 being upgraded. It uses 11 year old tridents which were branded in March 2013. (Nearly 3 years ago)
The E400s new to BC in 2013 were branded for the 957 and 900 in August 2013 and they are no longer branded for the 900/957 and branded for the Pershore Road.
Because I think the 126 is most likely to be upgraded and I would doubt they would do two WN routes. For one thing it would seriously skew the average vehicle age there.
Quote from: don on February 04, 2016, 06:29:08 PM
Presidents? It seems some of the recent double deck reallocations replaced single decks. I would have thought it unlikely though.
Yes, because Dundee needs more double decks
Quote from: Trident4590 on February 04, 2016, 04:35:44 PM
Isn't the 9 a key route? Can't see that going platinum
Neither can I, as the 9 route is earmarked as the first Sprint route (probably 2017 now). Although the Sprint route will only operate between Quinton and Birmingham, the 9 as we know it will become less 'significant' and will likely become less frequent as it will only be mainly used between Stourbridge and Quinton. That's my prediction anyway.
Quote from: Stu on February 04, 2016, 07:27:35 PM
Neither can I, as the 9 route is earmarked as the first Sprint route (probably 2017 now). Although the Sprint route will only operate between Quinton and Birmingham, the 9 as we know it will become less 'significant' and will likely become less frequent as it will only be mainly used between Stourbridge and Quinton. That's my prediction anyway.
Says on here construction could start in late 2016 with sprint going live in 2018.
https://www.centro.org.uk/transport/sprint/funding-and-timescales/
@Stu
Quote from: 2900 on February 04, 2016, 11:37:15 AM
All I,ve ever heard from the people that use buses to blackheath is we never get any new buses it's always hand me downs from the Birmingham garages , I should point out these comments come from people who used the old 128/129 and now the 89 service.
Saying that a few years a go while waiting in blackheath I had refurbished plaxton the chap I was chatting to couldn't believe it was a 15 year old bus, he was most impressed, when done properly refurbs work just as well as a new bus. A new bus has a much bigger carbon foot print than one already knocking about.
Plaxtons on the 83/89 have become rare now.
The bus routes that operate in Blackheath aren't exactly the highest on the pecking order. Besides for the 4s. Geminis seem to be the main allocation on the 83/89 these days, sad to see the Presidents getting rarer.
Quote from: clayderman on December 20, 2015, 01:55:46 PM
Just a thought, and some very wishful thinking - but single deck Platinums? I know it's silly, and obviously won't happen anytime soon - but like I said, just a thought. Of course, only because Arriva Sapphire, Stagecoach Gold, etc... has both double and single deck operations. Unfortunately, I can't think of any single deck service which could benefit from SD Platinums. 58?
I do. The 301 and the 302
Quote from: leewhayward29 on February 18, 2016, 11:10:25 PM
I do. The 301 and the 302
You are joking!?
Those are notorious with anti social behaviour!
Quote from: BU07 LGO on February 19, 2016, 08:08:37 PM
You are joking!?
Those are notorious with anti social behaviour!
If any route did get Single Decker Platinums maybe the 4/4H/4M could possibly get them?
Quote from: 2206 on February 19, 2016, 08:25:35 PM
If any route did get Single Decker Platinums maybe the 4/4H/4M could possibly get them?
One could hope x96 being express route
Quote from: Trident 4194 on February 19, 2016, 08:30:33 PM
One could hope x96 being express route
Where's the express bit?
Quote from: Winston on February 19, 2016, 08:31:36 PM
Where's the express bit?
I have often thought this but as the branding states "express" from stourbridge to merry hill and "express" dudley to merry hill
Quote from: Chris on February 19, 2016, 08:32:56 PM
I have often thought this but as the branding states "express" from stourbridge to merry hill and "express" dudley to merry hill
It used to have a limited stop section when first re-numbered X96, but hasn't had for some time
Quote from: Winston on February 19, 2016, 08:35:37 PM
It used to have a limited stop section when first re-numbered X96, but hasn't had for some time
See what the dudley review brings would be nice to see E200MMC platinum spec buses for X96
Quote from: Chris on February 19, 2016, 08:38:32 PM
See what the dudley review brings would be nice to see E200MMC platinum spec buses for X96
It doesn't need any new buses, the current ones are only 12 plates. Plus NXWM doesn't need any more single deckers, only double deckers need replacing primarily on central B'ham routes
Quote from: Winston on February 19, 2016, 08:42:41 PM
It doesn't need any new buses, the current ones are only 12 plates. Plus NXWM doesn't need any more single deckers, only double deckers need replacing primarily on central B'ham routes
Maybe do a platinum little brother like arriva max?
Quote from: Chris on February 19, 2016, 08:55:36 PM
Maybe do a platinum little brother like arriva max?
Platinum is effectively the same as Max, as Platinum doesn't come with the power sockets, I doubt we can expect that much from the Dudley review, probably a bit of tweaking here & there again.
Quote from: Winston on February 19, 2016, 08:35:37 PM
It used to have a limited stop section when first re-numbered X96, but hasn't had for some time
And it was pointless as half the drivers didnt stick to it.
All Platinum is, is high backed seats and wifi!
Nothing new for 997 passengers that had better spec enviro's with fully leather seats!
Quote from: Chris on February 19, 2016, 08:38:32 PM
See what the dudley review brings would be nice to see E200MMC platinum spec buses for X96
GET LOST!!!
If that happens i'm gone, they may not be popular with enthusiasts but I love the B7's and there's no need to replace them.
Quote from: pndriver on February 19, 2016, 10:32:44 PM
GET LOST!!!
If that happens i'm gone, they may bot be popular with enthusiasts but I love the B7's and there's no need to replace them.
I would agree. The X96 is fine with its B7RLE's in my opinion. As stated previously, NXWM need the focus on replacing/removing older Euro 3 vehicles off B'ham City Centre services. Wouldn't be surprised if every new bus this year were double deckers.
Quote from: pndriver on February 19, 2016, 10:32:44 PM
GET LOST!!!
If that happens i'm gone, they may not be popular with enthusiasts but I love the B7's and there's no need to replace them.
I happy with the b7rles just suggusting the routes that may get the 60 platinums but it will probably be the 126/529
Quote from: Chris on February 19, 2016, 10:51:36 PM
I happy with the b7rles just suggusting the routes that may get the 60 platinums but it will probably be the 126/529
60 Platinums for the X96? Wtf you on?
Quote from: WN on February 19, 2016, 11:06:34 PM
60 Platinums for the X96? Wtf you on?
Nowhere did he say that 60 buses were due for the X96.
Why single deck Platinum spec anyway?
Nx & it's predesscors didn't exactly warm to the old style limited stop Nationals back in the day.
You never saw them much in service anyway, certainly not in Walsall as far as I remember, unless it was a specific service with a low bridge.
Same with minibuses, they never really took off in Walsall either!
They either got upgraded to proper buses or withdrawn.
Quote from: Westy on February 19, 2016, 11:16:17 PM
Nx & it's predesscors didn't exactly warm to the old style limited stop Nationals back in the day.
You never saw them much in service anyway, certainly not in Walsall as far as I remember, unless it was a specific service with a low bridge.
WMPTE was rather proud of and liked its coach seated and special liveried Nationals. They were used extensively on limited stop services in Birmingham and on private hires at other times. Part of the stipulation for Government grant aid to purchase them was that they would be used for a proportion of their time on bus services. Whilst a number were allocated to Birmingham garages for the limited stop services (upgraded from rather Spartan but quick Ford buses) it should be remembered that WMPTE inherited dual purpose single deckers from Midland Red and provided the Nationaks for private hire work.
Walsall CT had a couple of coach seated single deckers when WMPTE took over (808 and 810) which were used for private hire. Any dual purpose Nationals at Walsall would have been used on private hire - not sure what bus services they appeared on though.
Then there were the 50 Timesaver coach seated Metrobuses - used extensively on limited stop services.
However like Winston, I'm very doubtful NXWM will be buying more single deckers for the moment as the existing ones are relatively new and having increased the percentage of double deckers are very unlikely to reverse that.
The last premium single deckers was the leather omnilinks for 934
@WN in my defence i wasn't saying 60 platinums for the X96, i was merely stating potential candidates for the black country platinums. I know the b7lres are 12 plates and i don't mind them, prefer them over the mercs (my opinion). The odds are it will be the 126 as it crosses 3 of the 4 black country council areas (Dudley, Sandwell and Wolves) and runs into brum. The 4s maybe? To release the remaining 56 plate b7rles to dundee? 529 to release some of WN tridents to BC to replace the Y reg ones. The possibilities are numerous and will have to see what nx's 2016 orders bring :)
Quote from: Chris on February 20, 2016, 12:20:58 PM
@WN in my defence i wasn't saying 60 platinums for the X96, i was merely stating potential candidates for the black country platinums. I know the b7lres are 12 plates and i don't mind them, prefer them over the mercs (my opinion). The odds are it will be the 126 as it crosses 3 of the 4 black country council areas (Dudley, Sandwell and Wolves) and runs into brum. The 4s maybe? To release the remaining 56 plate b7rles to dundee? 529 to release some of WN tridents to BC to replace the Y reg ones. The possibilities are numerous and will have to see what nx's 2016 orders bring :)
Dundee don't need any more Volvo B7RLE from the West Midlands the only single decker Dundee will need to replace in the next couple of years is 7067 which could be replaced with a Double Decker. They might get some deckers from the West Midlands next year to replace some Presidents and 7067. Its likely that all the new buses in 2016 could all be Deckers.
If all platinum is high backed seats and Wi-Fi then it isn't a significant passenger upgrade or brand it's just a way of giving a route a kick up the backside to increase its income.
Quote from: JoNi on February 20, 2016, 05:33:23 PM
If all platinum is high backed seats and Wi-Fi then it isn't a significant passenger upgrade or brand it's just a way of giving a route a kick up the backside to increase its income.
In my opinion, a kick up the backside would be getting new buses, new buses with more passenger related capabilities I would classify as an upgrade.
Quote from: GeminiFan1991 on February 20, 2016, 06:52:27 PM
In my opinion, a kick up the backside would be getting new buses, new buses with more passenger related capabilities I would classify as an upgrade.
There not even fully leather!!
Quote from: Westy on February 19, 2016, 11:16:17 PM
Why single deck Platinum spec anyway?
Nx & it's predesscors didn't exactly warm to the old style limited stop Nationals back in the day.
You never saw them much in service anyway, certainly not in Walsall as far as I remember, unless it was a specific service with a low bridge.
Same with minibuses, they never really took off in Walsall either!
They either got upgraded to proper buses or withdrawn.
I remember a DP National appearing on the 301 to Walsall from Cannock as a kid with my nan. The seats were like something out of the 1940s instead of the 70s lol mega comfy tho. A number reappeared in the 90s at Walsall with volvo engines wish I'd of managed to get one!
Quote from: Trident 4194 on February 20, 2016, 06:57:01 PM
There not even fully leather!!
Better than the other seats !
I would surmise fully lethered seats would cost a lot more per bus then you take into how many buses we have/ are due then the cost will quickly escalate.
Not at all sure what the fascination is with full leather seats. Even in high spec full air conditioned coaches there hot in the summer and cold In the winter. We have now gone to half leather halt cloth seats. Much smarter and more practical.
I just felt quite underwhelmed with platinum when compared to other companies premium brands such as stagecoach gold or Harrogate's 36
Quote from: BU07 LGO on February 20, 2016, 09:57:46 PM
I just felt quite underwhelmed with platinum when compared to other companies premium brands such as stagecoach gold or Harrogate's 36
And Arriva sapphire
Quote from: Trident 4194 on February 21, 2016, 08:31:27 AM
And Arriva sapphire
Strangely, I had exactly the same slightly underwhelmed feeling when I went on an Arriva Sapphire for the first time the other day. I thought the interior colour scheme contributed to this, especially the seats.
A press release issued today confirms the number of new vehicles being ordered this year, but not the make up of vehicle types/sizes
http://us10.campaign-archive1.com/?u=8cc1ac8e79c7a13999975a372&id=cf82c616a1
Quote from: Tony on February 24, 2016, 02:50:08 PM
A press release issued today confirms the number of new vehicles being ordered this year, but not the make up of vehicle types/sizes
http://us10.campaign-archive1.com/?u=8cc1ac8e79c7a13999975a372&id=cf82c616a1
100?! Hmm surprised considering the emissions at the end of the year
Quote from: Tony on February 24, 2016, 02:50:08 PM
A press release issued today confirms the number of new vehicles being ordered this year, but not the make up of vehicle types/sizes
http://us10.campaign-archive1.com/?u=8cc1ac8e79c7a13999975a372&id=cf82c616a1
Same article is also on the NX Website as expected.
@WN Don't forget the existing fleet that are having exhaust traps fitted which iirc, take a bus up to Euro 6 spec?
Quote from: Nathan
@WN Don't forget the existing fleet that are having exhaust traps fitted which iirc, take a bus up to Euro 6 spec?
I know but I just didn't think rhat would be enough.
Wonder when the first deliveries will be this time last year the first 22 were revealed for the 9
Quote from: WN on February 24, 2016, 02:59:44 PM
100?! Hmm surprised considering the emissions at the end of the year
There will be 100 new Euro 6 + 150 existing fleet members upgraded to Euro 6 with the traps (as Nathan said).
100 new Euro 6 due during 2016
150 x existing fleet upgraded to Euro 6 with traps
157 x new Euro 6 delivered during 2015/16 (50 x E200MMC, 1 x Streetdeck, 48 x E400MMC Crimson & 58 x E400MMC Platinum)
Total = 407. (Approx 26% of the NXWM fleet once complete)
Plus there's the 39 Hybrids in addition.
Quote from: Winston on February 24, 2016, 03:36:10 PM
There will be 100 new Euro 6 + 150 existing fleet members upgraded to Euro 6 with the traps (as Nathan said).
100 new Euro 6 due during 2016
150 x existing fleet upgraded to Euro 6 with traps
157 x new Euro 6 delivered during 2015/16 (50 x E200MMC, 1 x Streetdeck, 48 x E400MMC Crimson & 58 x E400MMC Platinum)
Total = 407. (Approx 26% of the NXWM fleet once complete)
Plus there's the 39 Hybrids in addition.
And the euro 4 rule in Birmingham City Centre doesn't come in until May 2017, so some new vehicle orders in 2017 may be included
Oh fair enough then. Just didn't think there would be. Thanks for the detail :)
Article does mention the phrase "Micro Hybrids". Wrightbus springs to mind... ???
'Stop/start technology' They really aren't a pleasant experience for the passenger. From the constant obvious stop and start up again there's the endless moaning from everyone sat on the bus. 'It's broken down again!' Over and over all bloody journey.
I agree. I went on 2203 on Tuesday on the 37 - the bodywork was beginning to rattle when the engine shook as it switched off and on. At least a poster or two could be fixed telling passengers it's supposed to do that.
Quote from: Stevo on February 25, 2016, 06:05:45 PM
I agree. I went on 2203 on Tuesday on the 37 - the bodywork was beginning to rattle when the engine shook as it switched off and on. At least a poster or two could be fixed telling passengers it's supposed to do that.
I've been on 2203 & 2204 on the 72 and I laugh to myself when the engine cuts out waiting for somebody to comment that the bus has broken down which I have heard or has the driver stalled it again. As you say a heads up about the stop/start function when they were first delivered would of helped alleviate the comments then and now after almost a year in service.
Something possibly to be added to any future stop/start buses delivered to save the smart arse comments of some passengers ;) ???
Quote from: Squiz1971 on February 25, 2016, 07:20:43 PM
I've been on 2203 & 2204 on the 72 and I laugh to myself when the engine cuts out waiting for somebody to comment that the bus has broken down which I have heard or has the driver stalled it again. As you say a heads up about the stop/start function when they were first delivered would of helped alleviate the comments then and now after almost a year in service.
Something possibly to be added to any future stop/start buses delivered to save the smart arse comments of some passengers ;) ???
Yes but who are actually gonna notice it?!
WN , your right who's going to read the notices, when yor average muppet/customer doesn't even what's on the front of the bus. When I,m on the 83/89 it never ceases to amaze me when I turn off down windmill lane or turn at Victoria park, some one says driver eh this da 87 blood claat driver
Quote from: 2900 on February 26, 2016, 10:09:08 AM
WN , your right who's going to read the notices, when yor average muppet/customer doesn't even what's on the front of the bus. When I,m on the 83/89 it never ceases to amaze me when I turn off down windmill lane or turn at Victoria park, some one says driver eh this da 87 blood claat driver
I agree with both comments as I have rode on 11E's before now and the amount of people who got on were miffed cos the driver said last stop say Bearwood & comments like your joking or you aint goin' to Erdington then??. But in saying that if the info was available for those who do read the notices it might be of some help to them
@2900 @WN tho some people are beyond help these days lol
The main thing here is as people get used to travelling on vehicles that do this they will cease to think they've broken down. It doesn't take long.
It's the same with cars, many of which have stop/start technology - takes a day or two to get used to then its second nature. It's surprising the bus industry is taking so long to mass introduce it!!
Good news on the 100 new buses - presumably they'll start arriving soon. When are the particulate trap modifications starting, or have they already? And does anyone know where the start point for Euro 4 compliant double and single deckers is in the fleet? I'd presumed 1788 and 4830 (or is it 4800???)
Quote from: don on February 26, 2016, 12:44:25 PM
The main thing here is as people get used to travelling on vehicles that do this they will cease to think they've broken down. It doesn't take long.
It's the same with cars, many of which have stop/start technology - takes a day or two to get used to then its second nature. It's surprising the bus industry is taking so long to mass introduce it!!
Good news on the 100 new buses - presumably they'll start arriving soon. When are the particulate trap modifications starting, or have they already? And does anyone know where the start point for Euro 4 compliant double and single deckers is in the fleet? I'd presumed 1788 and 4830 (or is it 4800???)
4718 onwards are Euro 4 up to 4829. 4830 is the starting point for Double Deck Euro 5 compliance.
I have tried to do an analysis of dates into service of the fleet as at 1.1.2016, with the following results;
1999/2000 93 [Presidents]
2001 140
2002 139
2003 122
2004 179
2005 18
2006 38
2007 83
2008 60
2009 90
2010 60
2011 62
2012 175
2013 132
2014 100
2015 171
Total 1667
I think this fairly accurate, but difficult to draw any conclusions from, except perhaps that it explains the decision to upgrade 150 vehicles this year.
Reading an article on route one about the gas powered double deck Scania bus chassis to be bodied by ADL , in it they mention one of the operators has shown a keen interest in the new bus even though they didn't have the best experience during the 90,s that got me thinking about Walsall garage back in the 90s had a fleet of single decker Alexander volvos running on gas which didn't really take off, just wandering if NX are considering operating gas buses again . I know things got frosty with Scania but business is business end of the day.The ADL enviro 400 MMC body for the Scania chassis is virtually the the same as ADL,s own integral bus , for operators who wish to keep things uniformed a bonus.
Quote from: 2900 on March 07, 2016, 03:07:08 PM
Reading an article on route one about the gas powered double deck Scania bus chassis to be bodied by ADL , in it they mention one of the operators has shown a keen interest in the new bus even though they didn't have the best experience during the 90,s that got me thinking about Walsall garage back in the 90s had a fleet of single decker Alexander volvos running on gas which didn't really take off, just wandering if NX are considering operating gas buses again . I know things got frosty with Scania but business is business end of the day.The ADL enviro 400 MMC body for the Scania chassis is virtually the the same as ADL,s own integral bus , for operators who wish to keep things uniformed a bonus.
I was quite surprised that bio gas powered buses didn't feature in the recent NX bids for funding from the Low Emission Bus Scheme instead of hydrogen fuel cell buses that they have bid for.
Reading had gas powered omnicitys which were quickly converted to diesel
Quote from: BU07 LGO on March 07, 2016, 08:46:01 PM
Reading had gas powered omnicitys which were quickly converted to diesel
Reading Buses have amassed a sizeable fleet of Scania / ADL E300 GS bio-gas buses, the initial order for 20 was followed with a further order for another 14:
http://www.buszone.co.uk/Enviro300SG.html
Quote from: Winston on March 07, 2016, 08:55:07 PM
Reading Buses have amassed a sizeable fleet of Scania / ADL E300 GS bio-gas buses, the initial order for 20 was followed with a further order for another 14:
http://www.buszone.co.uk/Enviro300SG.html
Not to mention Stagecoach Busways running 40 Scania/ADL E300 but using liquified natural gas instead. Have got a pictures of these in Sunderland and they are quite impressive machines.
I'm surprised there has been no announcements about the next batch of new buses.
Quote from: WN on March 07, 2016, 09:28:59 PM
I'm surprised there has been no announcements about the next batch of new buses.
Well there is still just under 10 months left of 2016. Its also possible that they might not start to be delivered until the second half of 2016.
@WN
Quote from: BU07 LGO on March 07, 2016, 08:46:01 PM
Reading had gas powered omnicitys which were quickly converted to diesel
Not quite... they were ethanol-fuelled and the issue with them was that the ethanol had to be shipped from Sweden, which hardly did their environmental credentials any good.
The announcement of winners of the OLEV funding for low carbon buses has been delayed and the latest estimation is the end of this month. I have heard two plausible reasons why: one was that someone new at the DfT is meddling with the process, and the other is that similar meddling has come from the EU. That said, it is accepted that orders will be placed for Scania's gas 'decker regardless of whether the government gets its hand in its pocket to help - but operators will not commit until they know how much (if any) money is coming from the DfT.
Re the comment about TWM not having a good experience with gas buses in the late 90s, it is worth noting that the current Nottingham City Transport Engineering Director was with TWM during that period.
The recent statements by the company about the 2016 orders mentions that by the end of 2016 all euro 2 buses will have left the fleet. I wonder does this include the ones in Dundee?
Quote from: Eric Shaw on March 10, 2016, 08:46:51 PM
The recent statements by the company about the 2016 orders mentions that by the end of 2016 all euro 2 buses will have left the fleet. I wonder does this include the ones in Dundee?
100 new buses would be enough to remove all Presidents at NXWM & Dundee, it would depend on if there are any service improvements planned which could increase the overall Pvr / reduce the number of withdrawals.
I assume the Presidents are being withdrawn due to age & not another government / local authority directive over emissions or the type of wheelchair ramp used?
Quote from: Westy on March 10, 2016, 10:56:23 PM
I assume the Presidents are being withdrawn due to age & not another government / local authority directive over emissions or the type of wheelchair ramp used?
I would expect it's mainly down to their age, plus there are fewer routes they can be used in due to B'ham City Centre SQPS emission rules. The Presidents were upgraded to being DDA compliant when refurbished by ADL @ Harlow in 2007/8
So the new deliveries will be 60 platinums and 40 mmcs. I would not be surprised if the bristol road gets the standard mmcs and maybe 60 too making the 14 plates e400s and any spare 13 plates moved on to the 24/29?
Quote from: Chris on March 10, 2016, 11:32:13 PM
So the new deliveries will be 60 platinums and 40 mmcs. I would not be surprised if the bristol road gets the standard mmcs and maybe 60 too making the 14 plates e400s and any spare 13 plates moved on to the 24/29?
Errrm, 14 plates are meant to be for the 24. 61 plates is good enough for the 60
Quote from: Chris on March 10, 2016, 11:32:13 PM
So the new deliveries will be 60 platinums and 40 mmcs.
I'm sorry but where have you got this information from, because it is complete crap before anyone else takes it as gospel
Quote from: Tony on March 11, 2016, 08:00:11 AM
I'm sorry but where have you got this information from, because it is complete crap before anyone else takes it as gospel
It was my own opinion. I just thought with new regs coming in place for double deckers i presume it would e400 mmcs for the other 40 new buses as 60 have been said for the platinum spec
Quote from: Chris on March 11, 2016, 10:06:28 AM
It was my own opinion. I just thought with new regs coming in place for double deckers i presume it would e400 mmcs for the other 40 new buses as 60 have been said for the platinum spec
Nowhere is 60 Platinum quoted
Quote from: Tony on January 30, 2016, 03:43:40 PM
Not yet other than there will be more than 60 Platinum and they will serve all 4 districts of the Black Country
Quote from: Tony on March 11, 2016, 10:22:53 AM
Nowhere is 60 Platinum quoted
Thats where i took the 60 platinums from
Knew it sounded a familiar number
Quote from: Chris on March 11, 2016, 10:36:58 AM
Thats where i took the 60 platinums from
Just to point out, the post you quoted says there will be 'more than 60' Platinums.
Quote from: Nathan on March 11, 2016, 11:12:58 AM
Just to point out, the post you quoted says there will be 'more than 60' Platinums.
Ok then i got it wrong sorry
@Tony i should check my post before post, i worded the first post completely wrong which seem like i was stating fact. I was only making a guess on deliveries so again i apologise for the error
We're all anxious to know what will be coming and when. At least could we be told when the first deliveries are expected?
Quote from: Stevo on March 11, 2016, 08:00:55 PM
We're all anxious to know what will be coming and when. At least could we be told when the first deliveries are expected?
I know what is coming, but daren't announce it before the company does, but I haven't got delivery dates yet.
Quote from: Tony on March 11, 2016, 08:03:13 PM
I know what is coming, but daren't announce it before the company does, but I haven't got delivery dates yet.
How you keep the secret, I'll never know !
I'm assuming the allocations of these vehicles has already been predetermined along with any cascades which will result in the delivery of the vehicles ?!
Quote from: Tony on March 11, 2016, 08:03:13 PM
I know what is coming, but daren't announce it before the company does, but I haven't got delivery dates yet.
@Tony Any idea as to when the company will announce it? I'm sure you said before the company did about 6101-6122 last year.
I'm sure what ever is announced will be same corridors benefiting (when did I become so cynical).
Quote from: GeminiFan1991 on March 11, 2016, 08:11:59 PM
How you keep the secret, I'll never know !
I'm assuming the allocations of these vehicles has already been predetermined along with any cascades which will result in the delivery of the vehicles ?!
I know of one but will also respect the company and not say. Not surprised by it though.
Rumour is 529 and 126 platinum
Quote from: BU07 LGO on March 12, 2016, 07:56:23 AM
Rumour is 529 and 126 platinum
A 529 driver mentioned the same to me yesterday morning. "We apparently will have new buses on 529."
Painful isn't it. Why does everything have to be a secret!
Quote from: JoNi on March 12, 2016, 08:46:00 AM
Painful isn't it. Why does everything have to be a secret!
At a guess, I'd say it's to keep it from the other operators which may come across as competition, ie Diamond(?)
or, to an extent, us enthusiasts; some more "persistent" than others: who may loiter outside the garage when new deliveries arrive? ... Which opens up a whole new can of worms; photographs, exploiting driver confidentiality - if they don't want their photo taken, etc...
I don't mind if i'm wrong - don't take my word for it - but that's why I think it's usually kept to themselves. I'm sure there could be many more factors which may be the reason behind the confidentiality
Almost certainly commercial sensitivity I would think. The intention with route upgrades (which are part of new deliveries these days) is to increase usage (helping Centros policies) and income/business success (for NX) - thus more complex and sensitive than simple fleet replacement I would think.
Would be surprised with the 529 having competition, as no-one has stayed on there long term against Nx!
Do we know if anything resulted in the Gemini 3 demonstrator being at NX ?! Their is some potential of it being part of some deliveries this year
http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/national-express-putting-65-new-11039511
Quote from: Winston on March 14, 2016, 09:46:28 PM
http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/national-express-putting-65-new-11039511
DAMN IT! Thought that was an announcement.
Quote from: WN on March 14, 2016, 09:47:32 PM
DAMN IT! Thought that was an announcement.
I feel as though a proper announcement is now imminent
At least we know how many and sort of when - this summer. Sort of where, too - Black Country routes. The current Platinums are on express-style routes, so will they create some more or put these vehicles on routes like the 126 and 529?
Quote from: Stevo on March 14, 2016, 10:07:38 PM
At least we know how many and sort of when - this summer. Sort of where, too - Black Country routes. The current Platinums are on express-style routes, so will they create some more or put these vehicles on routes like the 126 and 529?
I feel as thought, they'll probably get standard crimson buses
I wonder if they will make a express 126 service
Quote from: Jack6101 on March 15, 2016, 09:45:47 AM
I wonder if they will make a express 126 service
It would have no major affect. The 126 goes the most djrect way currently. The only way they would do it is makong it limited stop and even then it wouldn't be used as much as I can't imagine many people using it IMO.
Quote from: WN on March 15, 2016, 11:15:05 AM
It would have no major affect. The 126 goes the most djrect way currently. The only way they would do it is makong it limited stop and even then it wouldn't be used as much as I can't imagine many people using it IMO.
It would just throw up the "you missed me stop" or "can I get off here" rubbish.
Quote from: Ashley 60171 on March 15, 2016, 12:12:02 PM
It would just throw up the "you missed me stop" or "can I get off here" rubbish.
Mate that still happens to this day on the X51, so shouldn't count as an excuse to not do it
Quote from: Winston on March 14, 2016, 09:46:28 PM
http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/national-express-putting-65-new-11039511
"X51 has experienced a 25% passenger growth" - its all well and good having platinum buses with extra leg room but the x51 needs all the capacity it can get! Stand in town on any evening during the rush hour and see how packed they are!
Quote from: BU07 LGO on March 15, 2016, 04:25:35 PM
"X51 has experienced a 25% passenger growth" - its all well and good having platinum buses with extra leg room but the x51 needs all the capacity it can get! Stand in town on any evening during the rush hour and see how packed they are!
Its because its an express service most people just want to get from Birmingham to Walsall in a quick and cheap time so they get the X51. If the 51 went platinum I doubt it would see massive growth imo.
They need to get a move on with this frequency increase its apparently getting because its at capacity now in the rush hours, it cant possibly grow any more if nobody else will fit on the buses!
Quote from: BU07 LGO on March 15, 2016, 04:47:58 PM
They need to get a move on with this frequency increase its apparently getting because its at capacity now in the rush hours, it cant possibly grow any more if nobody else will fit on the buses!
Presumably, the delay will be down to lack of new / spare buses
Quote from: BU07 LGO on March 15, 2016, 04:47:58 PM
They need to get a move on with this frequency increase its apparently getting because its at capacity now in the rush hours, it cant possibly grow any more if nobody else will fit on the buses!
Damn right. Even the early journeys, I've seen the first X51 of the morning full and standing recently.
Luckily since the rotas split I don't get too many x51s now but when I do you usually pick up at least 40 on moor street then leave lower bull street with a standing load and miss the 2 law court stops completely!
Quote from: Winston on March 14, 2016, 09:46:28 PM
http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/national-express-putting-65-new-11039511
A bit more info here:
http://www.nationalexpressgroup.com/media/news-across-the-group/2016/platinum-buses-worth-their-weight-in-gold/
Quote from: Winston on March 16, 2016, 12:49:03 AM
A bit more info here:
http://www.nationalexpressgroup.com/media/news-across-the-group/2016/platinum-buses-worth-their-weight-in-gold/
More info in employee emails today including 2 particular routes receiving platinums
Quote from: pndriver on March 18, 2016, 06:13:28 PM
More info in employee emails today including 2 particular routes receiving platinums
What routes are they
Lets just say I posted them months ago ;)
126 and 529 will be upgraded to Platinum Status in the summer.
That's about half of them, then maybe this X10 and the Sutton routes. That's what i think.
I was on about +40 for 126 & 529 inc spares
+7 for this X10 (if they do it) inc spares
and 18 for the sutton lines inc spares
to get to the 65.
94 or 65/67 to get the scraps from the sutton routes
I think Walsall will get a few extra
Quote from: monkeyjoe on March 18, 2016, 07:49:58 PM
I was on about +40 for 126 & 529 inc spares
+7 for this X10 (if they do it) inc spares
and 18 for the sutton lines inc spares
Aren't the platinums for the black country? The sutton lines don't come into the Black Country
to get to the 65.
94 or 65/67 to get the scraps from the sutton routes
Didn't realise they are getting all 65. Must have not read it properly.
Quote from: monkeyjoe on March 18, 2016, 08:11:04 PM
Didn't realise they are getting all 65. Must have not read it properly.
It said the bulk of the 65 was for black country?
If that's the case i stand by my original guess:-
47 for Black country vs 18 for Sutton makes sense over 70% to the Black country.
Wonder if we will see streetdeck platinums. First Worcestershire are certainly shining
18 buses is not enough for the Suttons (just 902/4/5).
I don't know why everyone think we are going Platinum, I might be completly wrong but I can not see us going platinum. Just go and look upstairs at the back to see how the current Enviro400s are treated
Quote from: monkeyjoe on March 18, 2016, 08:18:29 PM
If that's the case i stand by my original guess:-
47 for Black country vs 18 for Sutton makes sense over 70% to the Black country.
The elegant two-tone grey Platinum buses have proved so popular that the operator now plans to buy 65 more in 2016 to serve every district of the Black Country. National Express is expecting the first new buses to be on the road in the summer.
Quote from: John on March 18, 2016, 08:26:22 PM
18 buses is not enough for the Suttons (just 902/4/5).
I don't know why everyone think we are going Platinum, I might be completly wrong but I can not see us going platinum. Just go and look upstairs at the back to see how the current Enviro400s are treated
Can't be any worse than the 529!
The 914 can do one; you can't tell me the 94 isn't busier than that service. In my 18 i was just referring to the 902/4/5. Ha ha
Quote from: monkeyjoe on March 18, 2016, 08:48:17 PM
The 914 can do one; you can't tell me the 94 isn't busier than that service. In my 18 i was just referring to the 902/4/5. Ha ha
Sutton Coldfield isn't in the Black Country... X10 and 1?
Quote from: Chris on March 18, 2016, 08:50:49 PM
Sutton Coldfield isn't in the Black Country... X10 and 1?
I think we have established that not "ALL" of the new buses are going to the Black country if you read above, that was my original point.
Quote from: monkeyjoe on March 18, 2016, 08:48:17 PM
The 914 can do one; you can't tell me the 94 isn't busier than that service. In my 18 i was just referring to the 902/4/5. Ha ha
18 is not enough just for the 902/4/5
The 914 can be very busy at peak times
Quote from: monkeyjoe on March 18, 2016, 08:52:49 PM
I think we have established that not "ALL" of the new buses are going to the Black country if you read above, that was my original point.
I was going off the article. According to that it says 65 platinums to serve every district of the black country?
Just have to wait for the official announcement
And idea where the non platinums will go
Quote from: John on March 18, 2016, 08:55:57 PM
18 is not enough just for the 902/4/5
The 914 can be very busy at peak times
There is 25 overall at PB that have the sutton lines/ sutton travelcard style branding.
Quote from: Dom on March 18, 2016, 09:26:51 PM
There is 25 overall at PB that have the sutton lines/ sutton travelcard style branding.
26 not 25.
For me, what's more interesting is the cascades WN will have and where they'll go. AG still have 25odd Plaxtons don't they? What will they be replaced with I wonder? Tridents? Seeing as it's now got ADL buses, it may well be? Or maybe Tridents to WB/CV and Geminis to AG. No doubt YW will get some Tridnets.
Quote from: John on March 18, 2016, 08:26:22 PM
18 buses is not enough for the Suttons (just 902/4/5).
I don't know why everyone think we are going Platinum, I might be completly wrong but I can not see us going platinum. Just go and look upstairs at the back to see how the current Enviro400s are treated
You say that, but have you seen how WA's are treated? I was on 6735 at the back on the top deck yesterday. The plastic on the seats have been scratched to hell, some of the leather has been ripped.
Quote from: MW on March 19, 2016, 03:47:21 AM
For me, what's more interesting is the cascades WN will have and where they'll go. AG still have 25odd Plaxtons don't they? What will they be replaced with I wonder? Tridents? Seeing as it's now got ADL buses, it may well be? Or maybe Tridents to WB/CV and Geminis to AG. No doubt YW will get some Tridnets.
WN will mostly likely lose 04/54 plate Tridents to BC & possibly YW to remove early Tridents from City Centre routes.
I expect AG will either receive further Gemini's as a result of cascades. No point putting Tridents in to AG this late in their lives. Same applies to Tridents in to WB.
Quote from: Winston on March 19, 2016, 10:13:44 AM
I expect AG will either receive further Gemini's as a result of cascades. No point putting Tridents in to AG this late in their lives. Same applies to Tridents in to WB.
Geminis from where though? So many new buses at WN can only really mean Tridents being released, and there's nowhere really you'd replace Geminis with older Tridents
Quote from: Kevin on March 19, 2016, 11:09:07 AM
Geminis from where though? So many new buses at WN can only really mean Tridents being released, and there's nowhere really you'd replace Geminis with older Tridents
There's 100 new buses coming, so the allocation of around 35 is known, which is a couple extra for Walsall for the 937, Then enough for the 126 & 529 at WN, I don't know the allocation of the remaining 65 vehicles although I do know the vehicle split and I've got to do the cascade plan. A lot of you have misread the press release judging by the comments as well
Quote from: Kevin on March 19, 2016, 11:09:07 AM
Geminis from where though? So many new buses at WN can only really mean Tridents being released, and there's nowhere really you'd replace Geminis with older Tridents
PB most likely, especially with people speculating the Sutton's Lines will go Platinum
Quote from: Winston on March 19, 2016, 11:42:08 AM
PB most likely, especially with people speculating the Sutton's Lines will go Platinum
With the success of platinum i would not be surprised if every garage excluding Bordesley gets at least one platinum route. Maybe the newer platinums might get plugs/USB like sapphire
Quote from: Chris on March 19, 2016, 11:54:51 AM
With the success of platinum i would not be surprised if every garage excluding Bordesley gets at least one platinum route. Maybe the newer platinums might get plugs/USB like sapphire
Wouldn't that make them more normalised ? Their higher specced buses so they should reserved for express/ high specced routes (If that makes any sense)
Quote from: GeminiFan1991 on March 19, 2016, 12:35:50 PM
Wouldn't that make them more normalised ? Their higher specced buses so they should reserved for express/ high specced routes (If that makes any sense)
See where your coming from. Was just wondering thats all if potentially it could happen
Crimson and platinum at pensnett ????
They may aswell all the platinum spec it's only wifi and hi backed seats so can't cost that much more in grand scheme of things
Quote from: BU07 LGO on March 19, 2016, 05:23:56 PM
They may aswell all the platinum spec it's only wifi and hi backed seats so can't cost that much more in grand scheme of things
Providing wifi is quite expensive
What's the cost of a mmc against a streetdeck ?
Quote from: Tony on March 19, 2016, 05:32:10 PM
Providing wifi is quite expensive
I'm sure most passengers wouldn't miss it with most having 4G now.
The Platinums are nice but they really haven't lived up to the hype to me, was expecting a lot more
Quote from: GeminiFan1991 on March 19, 2016, 12:35:50 PM
Wouldn't that make them more normalised ? Their higher specced buses so they should reserved for express/ high specced routes (If that makes any sense)
I expect NXWM will use them on routes where their impact is most likely to increase revenue. I guess routes where many passengers make long journeys are likely, but not necessarily. Two short high-spec routes in the Midlands are Leicester - Oadby (Arriva Sapphire) and Leamington - Warwick (Stagecoach Gold).
Quote from: BU07 LGO on March 19, 2016, 06:12:15 PM
I'm sure most passengers wouldn't miss it with most having 4G now.
The Platinums are nice but they really haven't lived up to the hype to me, was expecting a lot more
I think WiFi is good on the buses although people have this notion that they can utilize it for whatever and expect top quality service. The available bandwidth means the connection is good for typical web browsing but you get the odd person who'd attempt to load a video/ movie and then complain about the loading time when it wasn't engineered for that type of content !
I can't complain but I think many were naturally comparing the Platinums to the standard Enviro400 MMCs and although they're great buses, the leap isn't significant. It'd be interesting to see if NX considers a different decker (Possibly a Volvo variant) for platinum status.
Quote from: karl724223 on March 19, 2016, 05:39:46 PM
What's the cost of a mmc against a streetdeck ?
Karl, about the same price £206,000.
Seeing as we have an idea at this moment of time of which routes will be getting new buses but do we fully know exactly which buses (As in vehicle type) we are getting?! It seems logical to think E400MMC although we currently have this Wright Streetdeck and while it's only a seed vehicle, the Enviro400 started off as a seed vehicle and we have over 250 of them now ! Another candidate is the Gemini 3, it might have been a demonstrator but I believe the Enviro400MMC also originally done a round at NX as a demonstrator as well.
Any guesses ?
I'd like to think that there will be a 50/50 split with the streetdeck and MMC, however, I can't see it, have we really had the Wright long enough to fully evaluate and decide on definite order, looking forward to finding out the full details. Especially as the 126 has been mentioned a few times as a candidate for new buses.
Quote from: danny on April 28, 2016, 05:19:22 PM
I'd like to think that there will be a 50/50 split with the streetdeck and MMC, however, I can't see it, have we really had the Wright long enough to fully evaluate and decide on definite order, looking forward to finding out the full details. [/Especially as the 126 has been mentioned a few times as a candidate for new buses.
The 126 is confirmed for new Platinum buses along with the 529 at WN. WA are also having a couple extra too. The rest will no doubt be revealed soon.
Thank you
@Nathan must of missed the post announcing that one, think I'll be using the 126 alot more when they hit the road.
I think it's fairly safe to assume that any new buses delivered this year (in any significant quantity) will most likely be ADL Enviro400s.
Quote from: Stu on April 28, 2016, 07:06:45 PM
I think it's fairly safe to assume that any new buses delivered this year (in any significant quantity) will most likely be ADL Enviro400s.
I suppose its wishful thinking on my part but I'd like Volvo to contribute something to this years deliveries,
We have all been "what this space" for a while now!!!
http://nxbus.co.uk/west-midlands/information/new-bus-update/
At least we know "Where to see our 2015" :D
I know its very early to start predicting, but I wonder if next years order would see the E400 City start being used in the Midlands, especially if the ones in Blackpool prove to be quite successful.
Quote from: Dom on July 10, 2016, 10:36:36 AM
I know its very early to start predicting, but I wonder if next years order would see the E400 City start being used in the Midlands, especially if the ones in Blackpool prove to be quite successful.
Personally I can't see it happening, ad revenue would be significantly reduced because NX couldn't have T boards :D
Seriously though I don't see the E400 City being that much of a success overall (London excluded) because in reality it's just a more expensive E400MMC, not just purchase price (I can't say I know that) but in upkeep, for example I wonder how much those custom windows cost??
The E400 City is a London bus imho.
According to the August edition of BUSES Magazine, the 96 E400MMC's will be 6759 to 6854, of which 6759 to 6795 will be going to Park Lane. It says that 6759 to 6765 are due in August with registrations SN16 OUP/S/U/V/W/X/Y.
Quote from: Roy on July 22, 2016, 11:13:08 AM
According to the August edition of BUSES Magazine, the 96 E400MMC's will be 6759 to 6854, of which 6759 to 6795 will be going to Park Lane. It says that 6759 to 6765 are due in August with registrations SN16 OUP/S/U/V/W/X/Y.
@Roy - That matches what Tony put on the main site (NX Fleetlist) a couple of weeks ago
Quote from: Winston on July 22, 2016, 11:23:50 AM
@Roy - That matches what Tony put on the main site (NX Fleetlist) a couple of weeks ago
Hi
@Winston.
I hadn't seen that. I did searches on the forum to make sure I wasn't repeating anything, but didn't look at the main site. I am guessing that Tony was the source of information for the BUSES entry.
Quote from: Roy on July 22, 2016, 11:42:34 AM
Hi @Winston.
I hadn't seen that. I did searches on the forum to make sure I wasn't repeating anything, but didn't look at the main site. I am guessing that Tony was the source of information for the BUSES entry.
No worries
@Roy Tony did post to say the fleetlist had been updated with initial WN Platinum's, it's probably buried amongst all the junk being posted.
I expect Tony was the source of Buses jnfo
I know its only 6th Jan and that last years deliveries have just been completed but, what is due this year (amounts & locations) or hasn't it been decided yet?
Quote from: BN on January 06, 2017, 01:56:42 PM
I know its only 6th Jan and that last years deliveries have just been completed but, what is due this year (amounts & locations) or hasn't it been decided yet?
@BN - the only thing confirmed at present regarding new bus orders for this year is that funding was awarded mid 2016 for the purchase pf 10 x Wrights HEV 96 gyro-drives due during 2017
http://nxbus.co.uk/west-midlands/news/olev-low-emission-bus-scheme-july-2016
Quote from: Winston on January 08, 2017, 12:07:19 AM
@BN - the only thing confirmed at present regarding new bus orders for this year is that funding was awarded mid 2016 for the purchase pf 10 x Wrights HEV 96 gyro-drives due during 2017
http://nxbus.co.uk/west-midlands/news/olev-low-emission-bus-scheme-july-2016
The article interestingly also mentions some 2018 deliveries as well.
Just seen this; https://www.flickr.com/photos/surreybusphotographer/31757760733/
Is it actually for NX and part of a new batch for delivery?
Quote from: Liberator9 on January 29, 2017, 01:21:26 AM
Just seen this; https://www.flickr.com/photos/surreybusphotographer/31757760733/
Is it actually for NX and part of a new batch for delivery?
Oh no! not more single deckers please !!
Quote from: Liberator9 on January 29, 2017, 01:21:26 AM
Just seen this; https://www.flickr.com/photos/surreybusphotographer/31757760733/
Is it actually for NX and part of a new batch for delivery?
The fact it appears to be complete & in allover white, and also appears to be at ADL Guildford (Chassis plant), I would guess that it may be sort sort of development / demo vehicle that NX could be testing in service for ADL. I had thought it may be for NX Ops for aiport work, but it doesn't have extra luggage racks.
I would think that NXWM currently have a low requirement for new single deckers at present, other than any new Quality Partnerships being planned
Quote from: Winston on January 29, 2017, 11:40:28 AM
The fact it appears to be complete & in allover white, and also appears to be at ADL Guildford (Chassis plant), I would guess that it may be sort sort of development / demo vehicle that NX could be testing in service for ADL. I had thought it may be for NX Ops for aiport work, but it doesn't have extra luggage racks.
I would think that NXWM currently have a low requirement for new single deckers at present, other than any new Quality Partnerships being planned
Or it was built at the same time as the NX ones and the same seat pattern was used
Quote from: Tony on January 29, 2017, 12:01:44 PM
Or it was built at the same time as the NX ones and the same seat pattern was used
I wouldn't have know that, surprised no one has seen it over the past 18 months. I wasn't too far off...
Surprised NX haven't acquired it or it was taken on loan to cover the mods on AG's E200MMC fleet.