21/07/2011
Travelling by bus in Argyll and Bute is about to become even easier thanks to the installation of on bus tracking units that will transmit information to bus passengers on progress of their bus in real time.
In total 74 buses operated by West Coast Motors have been equipped with the latest GPRS technology to let them communicate with bus stop displays and mobile phones. The buses are also fitted with a driver display called G Meter that is designed to encourage eco driving by bus drivers to reduce fuel consumption and vehicle wear.
The buses involved undertake a wide range of duties including the strategic long distance coach services that link the west Highlands with the rest of Scotland. Passengers will now know exactly when their bus will arrive at their bus stop.
The buses serve a number of ferry ports, rail stations as well as Oban Airport.
The project has been made possible by a partnership involving Argyll and Bute Council, HITRANS and West Coast Motors with a significant part of the funding being provided through the START project.
As well as the on bus tracking equipment the START project has funded the purchase of real time information displays at the following interchanges:
- Dunoon Interchange
- Rothesay Interchange
- Oban Interchange
- Oban, West Coast Motors Travel Centre
In addition to these locations a Scottish first will be achieved with the introduction of a real time information display on the MV Isle of Mull ferry which serves the busiest ferry route into Oban. This will let passengers plan their onward journey from Oban Interchange while they are still on board the ferry.