ADL and Stagecoach also picked up awards at last week’s ceremony
Last Thursday, June 14, saw the annual Scottish Transport Awards take place at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Glasgow, hosted by comedian and radio presenter Fred MacAulay.
Now in its 16th year, the awards bring together those involved in the industry, recognising and celebrating important achievements made across Scotland.
The awards are supported by the Scottish Government and Transport Scotland – and were attended by 450 industry professionals.
Public Transport Operator of the Year went to Lothian Buses, following a year of fleet development and job creation.
Richard Hall, Lothian’s Managing Director, said: “Across our business at Lothian we employ over 2500 people and this award is for every one of them.
Every day our teams go above and beyond, to deliver excellence in customer service and operational delivery.
“We invest heavily in our fleet, services and people and we’re delighted that this award further underlines our reputation as one of the most innovative and dynamic bus operators in the UK.
“I’d like to take this opportunity to thank all of our customers for continuing to choose Lothian to travel in and around Scotland’s capital.”
Meanwhile, ADL was awarded the ‘Contribution to Sustainable Transport’ prize for its SmartPack and SmartHybrid technology, reducing emissions on Euro VI diesel buses.
Keith Watson, ADL Customer Development Director, accepted the award and commented: “We are delighted with this recognition of our efforts to provide an affordable means of delivering cleaner buses on a large scale.
“Combining low emissions with low investment cost over conventional buses, ADL Enviro200 and Enviro400 buses with SmartPack and SmartHybrid efficient diesel technology are part of the solution to the air quality challenge not only in Scotland.”
SmartPack manages the alternator and air compressor to minimise load on the engine, improving efficiency; both only charge when the vehicle is decelerating, helping boost fuel economy.
The SmartHybrid system builds on SmartPack, adding a hybrid system which contributes to a 33% well-to-wheel reduction in greenhouse gases.
Stagecoach also enjoyed success, with its West Scotland X74 route being named as the year’s Best Bus Service.
Running between Dumfries and Glasgow, the service operates 12 times a day and carries around 180,000 passengers each year.
Acting Stagecoach West Scotland Managing Director, Sam Greer, said: “It’s great to win this award and provides some well-deserved recognition for our team who work hard to deliver high quality services day in, day out.
“The X74 is growing in popularity as more people realise it’s a convenient, comfortable and affordable way to travel between Dumfries and Glasgow, and we look forward to welcoming even more customers on to our services in the future.”
