National Express West Midlands has become the first UK bus operator to trial a new design of seat aimed at improving bus driver comfort, safety and inclusivity.
The six-month test of a seat from Chapman Seating follows a project led by Women in Transport this year to accelerate inclusive cab design in the industry.
The West Bromwich-based supplier has designed and manufactured the new seats with input from National Express bus drivers, engineers and union representatives.
The seating enhancements include integrated cushion suspension, ventilation and heating options, a wider width, and easily adjustable visual settings for improved driver comfort.
The seats have also been designed to minimise the time and cost associated with repairs.
The trial, which began at the end of October, will involve up to 200 drivers National Express West Midlands’ West Bromwich depot trying them out on a single-decker Alexander Dennis Eviro200 and a double-decker Alexander Dennis Eviro400.
Drivers and engineers will provide feedback to the makers on the level of comfort and support, ease of adjustment, and the overall quality and satisfaction of the seat.
Jenny Tocknell, Head of Operations & Safety Assurance for National Express, says: “We recognise how important it is to build working environments that are safe, welcoming and comfortable for anybody that works in or is considering a career in transport and we are proud to play a part in this trial.
“Our drivers spend a large part of their day in the cab so it’s been a pleasure to work with them and our engineers, alongside Chapman Seating, to design a new driver seat that improves the level of comfort and inclusivity while out on the road.
“This is just the first step in our collective pledge and we’re excited about working with Women in Transport and Women in Bus and Coach to continue making our industry even more inclusive for current and future colleagues in the West Midlands and across the UK.”
Caroline Ward, Diversity and Inclusion Lead at Women in Transport, will speak about inclusive cab design on Thursday during the Masterclass Theatre at Euro Bus Expo at Birmingham NEC.
Another Inclusive Cab Summit is being planned by Women in Transport for February 2025 following this year’s inaugural edition in Leicester.
Jerry Smith, Managing Director of Chapman Seating, adds: “Over the last 18 months we have been working collaboratively with partners across the UK to develop and implement a robust design for the next generation of inclusive driver seats.
“The bus industry is keen to attract a greater number of drivers and by working together to enhance the seat and wider cab environment, we’re making it more attractive, comfortable and safe for both new and existing drivers.
“We’re really proud that our new Chapman seat is the preferred choice for this trial and as the first operator to test it in service, we’re looking forward to hearing National Express West Midlands’ feedback to help us further refine the seat ahead of trials with other bus operators.”
