19-year-old Bus Converted for One-man Working
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A 19-YEAR-OLD A.E.C. Regal 31-seat singleti decker has been converted to one-man operation by the Gosport and Fareham Omnibus Co., Hoeford, near Fareham, Hants. The principle followed in the design was that developed by Mr. R. Mackenzie, general manager of Halifax Transport Department, with the exception that there is a sliding, instead of a jack-knife, door.
One of the chief advantages of this A.E.C. Regal converted fbr one man operation is that the driver has retained his separate cab. He issues tickets to passengers from a T.I.M. machine secured on the counter at his
The conversion was effected by replacing the
original main centre pillar in the front bulkhead by two others, and placing a triangular counter at the driver's left hand. Mounted on the counter is a T.I.M. ticket-issuing machine secured by a felt-lined cradle.
The near-side entrance, which is in the normal position just behind the front axle, is another innovation, for the entrance was originally at the rear. The sliding door is operated by a fever at the driver's right hand.
Although Mr. H. Orme White, manager and engineer of the undertaking. had some initial difficulty in connecting the door operating gear with the controls, it is now reported to be working satisfactorily.
A stanchion fitted at the top of the entrance steps discourages passengers from passing the counter without paying their fares.
A switch fitted to the emergency exit on the off side controls a red light on the dash, so that the driver is given a signal if the door is opened inadvertently.
Drivers who have handled the vehicle speak highly of the ease with which they can collect fares. They also appreciate being separated from the saloon.
The extraordinarily long life of the body is attributed to its teak frame. Two other vehicles are to be converted.
REGISTRATIONS RISE
REGISTRATTONS of new vehicles, N. other than cars and motorcycles, rose from 9,512 in August to 12,239 in September. The following table gives details:—