UK coach industry advances sustainability with focus on zero-emission technology and workforce challenges
The recent UK Coach Operators Association (UKCOA) Conference and Showcase, hosted by minibus manufacturer Ilesbus UK at its newly acquired Swansea facility, underscored the dynamic and evolving challenges and opportunities within the coach and bus sector. As reported by Maxson Goh, the event brought together industry stakeholders to explore key issues ranging from government policies and workforce recruitment to compliance, technological advancements, and fostering industry collaborations. Delegates had the opportunity to view an extensive array of vehicles displayed both outside and within the workshop, setting a practical tone for discussions centred on the sector’s future.
Stephen Spendley, UKCOA’s Director of Operations, opened the conference by extending a warm welcome to attendees and expressing gratitude to Ilesbus for providing the venue. This conference marks a pivotal moment for operators navigating significant headwinds, including the integration of new vehicle technologies and the tightening regulatory landscape. The UK Coach Operators Association, which is run by coach operators for coach operators, remains at the forefront of advocating for the industry's needs, focusing on critical matters such as Public Service Vehicle Accessibility Regulations (PSVAR) compliance, driver recruitment, coach parking, and engaging with both local and national governments to bolster recognition of coaches as sustainable transport modes.
More broadly, the sector is grappling with the substantial transition towards net-zero emissions. Industry conversations at recent UKCOA events highlight the financial and infrastructural barriers associated with adopting battery-electric coaches. The Zero Emission Coach Taskforce (ZECT) has outlined that uncertainty over zero-emission technology remains the most pressing obstacle, contributing to hesitancy among operators. This technology challenge is compounded by vehicle range limitations, high purchase costs, the lack of a comprehensive charging infrastructure, and the urgent need for worker training on new technologies. These insights were echoed at the annual UKCOA conference held earlier in March at the Volvo Group in Warwick, where efforts such as the UKCOA driver academy scheme were spotlighted. This initiative has successfully recruited and trained over 30 new coach drivers, addressing sector-wide recruitment challenges.
Recruitment and workforce retention were also critical themes during National Coach Week, where operators highlighted pressing issues such as a shortage of vocational education opportunities, stringent driving restrictions on younger drivers, and the high costs of insurance for drivers under 25. Importantly, operators called for the relaxation of visa regulations to enable the sector to attract drivers from abroad, reflecting ongoing difficulties in maintaining a steady pool of qualified personnel.
In anticipation of upcoming government budget decisions, UKCOA has taken proactive steps by formally engaging with Members of Parliament. Their communications emphasise the importance of policy amendments, particularly concerning age restrictions imposed on young drivers, and advocate for government investment in commercial charging infrastructure strategically located to facilitate the electric coach transition.
Looking ahead, the sector will continue to benefit from collaborative initiatives and knowledge-sharing platforms, such as the forthcoming ConneCTing England Conference 2025. This event aims to unite operators, policymakers, and commissioners to tackle challenges like electric vehicle adoption, sustainability, and community transport service optimisation, reinforcing the sector’s commitment to innovation and environmental responsibility.
Overall, the UK coach industry finds itself at a crossroads, balancing the immediate operational challenges with ambitious long-term goals. By fostering collaboration, advocating for supportive policies, and embracing technological advancements, the sector is poised to navigate a sustainable and resilient future.