Brian Noone, Euromotive, EVM, GM Coachwork, Mellor Coachcraft, Minibus Options, Nu-Track and Stanford Coachworks received their certificates, with Iveco stating that they are all “trusted and reliable” providers of bodywork for the Iveco Bus product range.
Abdi Ali, product manager for Iveco Bus UK, made the point that the Busmaster advocate programme is already known and recognised across mainland Europe, stating that this is an extension into the UK market.
Through the programme, Iveco Bus can now direct bus and coach operators to a network of qualified Busmaster coachbuilders recognised for their ability to deliver approved bespoke bodywork, he said.
“Coachbuilders play an essential role in the passenger transport vehicle market as they represent nearly 50% of minicoach and minibus sales across Europe,” commented Ali.
Naturally, we’re looking forward to receiving more applicants as the programme embeds itself in the industry.”
Applicants to Iveco’s Busmaster programme undergo what he describes as a stringent audit process, ensuring that only the best coachbuilders get on board.
Aspects of the coachbuilding process examined include sales and aftersales support, parts availability, accuracy of engineering documentation and the consistency and quality of the manufacturing processes themselves.
Iveco then works with its Busmaster advocates, listing their bus products online and providing integrated engineering and technical support.