Tech and tools to keep your coach and bus fleet on the move

Operators looking to avoid expensive outsourcing can reap dividends by investing in tools such as wheel alignment equipment and wash systems

Behind every reliable coach or bus fleet is a well-equipped workshop working tirelessly to keep vehicles roadworthy, efficient, and compliant.

Investing in the right tools and equipment is a significant consideration for operators. From vehicle lifts to brake testers and diagnostic systems, a variety of tools are essential for operators to limit the time expensive coaches and buses spend out of service.

In this article, we focus on two particular types of workshop equipment that play a critical role in fleet performance.

Why wheel alignment is critical for coach and bus fleet operators

Proper wheel alignment is essential for managers of coach and bus fleets, directly impacting safety, fuel efficiency, tyre lifespan, and passenger comfort.

The risks of misaligned wheels

When wheels are not correctly aligned, the vehicle may pull to one side, creating a significant safety hazard, especially at higher speeds. Misalignment also leads to uneven tyre wear, which can dramatically increase costs for operators managing large fleets.

In addition, poor alignment can reduce fuel efficiency by up to 10%, according to industry studies. This means higher fuel bills and a bigger carbon footprint. Misaligned wheels can also place extra stress on steering and suspension components, leading to more frequent and costly repairs.

With many operators already facing challenges due to the deteriorating condition of UK roads, wheel alignment becomes even more crucial to ensure a smooth and comfortable ride for passengers.

What should wheel alignment equipment check?

When investing in wheel alignment systems, operators should look for technology that checks five key elements:

• Camber – the vertical tilt of the wheels when viewed from the front.
• Toe – the inward or outward angle of the wheels when viewed from above.
• Caster – the angle of the steering axis when viewed from the side of the vehicle.
• Thrust angle – the relationship between the rear axle, front axle, and the centreline of the vehicle.
• Scrub – the alignment between the steering axis and the tyre contact point on the road.

Checking all these factors ensures the wheels are properly aligned for optimal safety, performance, and cost efficiency.

For operators with an in-house workshop, Totalkare’s Heavy Duty Wheel Alignment System is one solution. This advanced system uses six wireless optical sensors attached to the wheels to deliver live data across up to three axles. It accurately measures the toe and camber on the front axle, as well as the thrust and scrub on the rear axles.

Innovative wheel alignment solutions from Totalkare

For smaller operators or those looking for a quick daily check, Totalkare offers the Quick Check Instant Wheel Alignment system. This user-friendly solution allows drivers to check critical alignment measurements themselves — no technician required.

Totalkare Marketing Executive Pavan Jheeta explains: “By fully automating the process in a drive-through procedure and removing the need for an extra worker, the Quick Check is one of the easiest and fastest ways to get an instant scan — offering the highest throughput with the least amount of labour.”

Investing in proper wheel alignment equipment not only enhances safety and passenger comfort but also helps operators cut costs through improved fuel economy and longer tyre life. For coach and bus fleet managers looking to maximise operational efficiency and minimise downtime, regular wheel alignment checks are an absolute must.

Vehicle wash systems as an investment

While most workshop equipment is designed to keep your fleet mechanically roadworthy, the importance of keeping your vehicles clean is not to be underestimated.

A mop and bucket will do the job, and outsourcing to a valeting company might also be an option. However, for operators with a large enough fleet, much time and money can be saved by investing in a commercial vehicle wash system for your site.

Wilcomatic, a distributor of gantry wash systems, recommends its new NOVA commercial vehicle wash system to reduce staff workload and water.

“The wash process is a major area for improvement, and one which is often overlooked by fleet managers,” says the business.

“Fleets relying on third-party companies to take care of their washing needs often pay a very high cost per wash and have to contend with greater downtime when transporting vehicles to the wash site… What’s more, it’s a scalable solution, meaning your average wash price per vehicle decreases as your fleet grows.”

Designed by German-based Otto Christ, its coach and bus wash systems are fitted with sensors and cameras to detect potential problems before they become more serious.

Vehicle wash systems and the environment

At a time when more and more operators are helping the environment by switching to battery-electric or hydrogen, further green points and cost-savings can be gained by adding Wilcomatic’s water-recycling machine, which can be installed as part of a new or existing wash system.

The business claims that up to 95% of the water used in wash systems can be reused.

“We get the most out of water,” says Wilcomatic. “Our working water systems save money and they’re better for the environment.

“We offer water reclamation, recycling and rainwater harvesting features that can be built in as part of a new system or can be retrofitted to an existing installation. Our environmentally friendly chemicals are an integral part of our ISO 14001 accreditation.”

Go South Coast switched to Wilcomatic after being dissatisfied with the standard of cleaning provided by a competitor’s machine, and has since made several purchases for its depots. Other users of the supplier include Transport UK London Bus and Lothian Buses.

Bespoke vehicle wash systems

For operators for whom space is at a premium, Wilcomatic’s “semi-stationary system” might be a worthwhile option.

Designed for small wash bays, the process begins as soon as the coach or bus is in place, meaning no external operators are required and the driver does not need to leave the vehicle.

Wilcomatic installed a bespoke solution for Go South Coast which completes a full wash in just two and a half minutes.