From 12-14 November, Euro Bus Expo 2024 took place at the NEC Birmingham, welcoming over 7,000 industry professionals.
The event brought together operators, local authorities, manufacturers, suppliers, and stakeholders to exchange ideas and products.
Transport Minister Simon Lightwood, who opened the final day’s Masterclass Theatre sessions, said:Collaboration is at the core of the government’s bold plans for change. And that is why events like this are so important. By sharing our insight and ideas, our experience and expertise, and our questions and concerns, we can drive progress towards our shared ambitions.
Seminar Highlights
During the event, 28 thought-provoking seminars were hosted at the Masterclass Theatre, led by 47 industry experts.
The seminars addressed issues such as net-zero strategies, compliance, recruitment, accessibility, and technological innovation.
The Masterclass Theatre delivered 28 thought-provoking seminars led by 47 industry experts, tackling net-zero strategies, compliance, recruitment, accessibility, and technological innovation.
Key highlights included:
- A discussion on the enormous accessibility changes and challenges in the bus sector
- Considerations for implementing AI capabilities into bus operations
- An exploration of how the European Entry/Exit System will impact on coach travel
Graham Vidler, CEO of CPT, reflected:Attendees enjoyed clear-eyed analysis of AI, open debates on accessibility, two discussions on the coach industry's future, workforce strategies, and a blockbuster panel with DVSA, the West Midlands Traffic Commissioner, and Backhouse Jones.
Exhibitor Highlights
190+ exhibitors and 75 vehicles from 25 leading manufacturers were on display at this year’s edition of Euro Bus Expo.
Standout announcements included:
- Irizar UK: Major orders with Eavesway Travel, Proctors Coaches, and West Coach Motors, and plans for a new UK headquarters in Nottinghamshire.
- BYD: Debuted its B12 battery-electric bus for the UK, boasting a 310-mile range.
- Karsan: Made its UK debut with the e-JEST electric microbus, distributed by EVM.
- Alexander Dennis: Revealed details about its upcoming Enviro200EV range, set to launch in 2025.
- FlixBus: Continued its rapid UK expansion, announcing a new partnership with trentbarton.
Euro Bus Expo takes place in the UK every 2 years, so will next be held 3-5 November 2026.
