NBC wants power
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A UNIFIED power system for bus use to replace the present multiplicity of air, hydraulic and electrical systems — that is one objective of research being undertaken by the National Bus Company.
This was revealed by Mr Peter Wyke Smith, director of technical services.
Another long-term project discussed was the hunt for a transmission system including an energy reservoir where energy stored during braking could be used for acceleration. This would therefore include an integral retarder.
But looking more to the present, NBC is anxious to finish work on its computerised Vehicle Maintenance Costing (VMC) scheme. "Only by having all the facts of component life verified by such a system can we per suade manufacturers to design changes," said Mr Wyke Smith. Modifications he would like to see include grouping all air valves for easy maintenance from outside the vehicle and also accurately establishing compressor life in different locations on bus chassis.
"Leopard compressors can last about three times as long as those in rear-engined vehicles because they are out in the air stream," said Mr Wyke Smith.
VMC is at present working in three NBC companies and is about to be extended to nine more.
With maintenance costs continually increasing NBC would be prepared to pay more initially for more reliable components, said Mr Wyke Smith. Relocation of maintenance points would also reduce costs.