Passenger Lift Services To Launch Revolutionary Access Lite Vehicle Lift At Coach & Bus Live
On stand N122 at Coach & Bus Live (NEC, 2-3 October 2013), Passenger Lift Services Limited (PLS) will be launching its pioneering, new Access Lite underfloor cassette lift and showcasing its industry leading Aquastep.
PLS is based in Oldbury, West Midlands and is a leading name in the design, manufacture and support of powered, passenger lifts and ramps for buses, coaches and PTS vehicles. Regarded as a worldwide specialist in vehicle lifts, PLS has delivered an unrivalled range of innovative and bespoke solutions since inception in 1990. Continuing with this proven track record, the new Access Lite lift is a completely new design that is lighter, stronger and can operate to greater heights than previous versions. PLS has invested extensive R&D resources to bring this new model to market, so that the dynamic challenges of providing access to raised vehicle flat floors can be met now and in the future.
Mike Simmonds, PLS CEO commented: “The PLS team and I are delighted to be unveiling the new Access Lite at Coach & Bus Live 2013. It represents a pioneering design in accessible vehicle passenger lifts and will deliver significant advantages to fleet operators and convertors both in terms of saving time and cost. Our entire specialist knowledge and engineering knowhow is clearly reflected in this latest precision product that will revolutionise the powered lift sector. Its lighter weight, enhanced robustness and advanced compatibility results in a solution that can be fitted more efficiently to a wider variety of vehicles, whilst reducing the need for chassis modifications. As fundamental components have been reduced in number and re-engineered for added strength, the Access Lite requires less fastener checks, saving down time and service duration. PLS understands minimising downtime with vehicle operation is crucial for its customers along with savings in terms of fuel consumption. The Access Lite meets all of these challenges and more.”
Through the new re-engineered ‘smart design’ and innovative use of cutting edge materials, the Access Lite delivers a remarkable 50kgs weight reduction when compared to similar competitors lifts. Intelligent design has been implemented throughout the manufacturing process so that reliability is maximised and maintenance is minimised. Special automotive rivets have replaced bolts so that a double benefit is provided in terms of ‘vibration-proofing’ and a 15% reduction in build time, helping to achieve a limit on costs. When fitted, the Access Lite will operate with 20% less hydraulic pressure than other models, so battery power is saved when loading passengers. This higher level of operational efficiency means more lifts can be performed without increased drain on vehicle batteries. It has an impressive SWL of 400kg and its platform can be engineered in a variety of sizes ranging from 725–925mm in width and 1410–1780mm in length. The platform can be lifted to a height of 1500mm above ground level and the redesigned bridging plate offers seamless transfers onto raised vehicle flat floors.
In addition to engineering enhancements, PLS has introduced a new method of paint coverage with the Access Lite. This advanced tripled coating system uses next generation paints that provide levels of durability associated with coatings that were available before stricter environment legislation. These paints are now environmentally friendly whilst still being chemically robust enough for use in extreme climates. The Access Lite also conforms to Individual Vehicle Approval and can be installed with a new two-piece bumper step if required.
Complementing the new Access Lite on stand N122, PLS will also be showcasing its industry leading Aquastep. The Aquastep is an automatically operating, minibus and PTS step that is fully waterproofed. Its heavy-duty construction provides reliable operation in extreme locations such as flood zones and can be deployed hand-free for improved access into vehicles. The Aquastep fitting kit delivers compatibility with all EU vehicle designs, is available in widths ranging from 670–1200mm and is trusted by convertors worldwide. Other products on display for the first time will be a new manual ramp available with one or two folds in sizes up to 2.6 metres and a range of roof hatches suitable for all types of passenger vehicles.
