Zeelo is offering its technology free of charge to “a small number” of coach operators in a bid to help with a safe relaxation of movement restrictions over the coming months through the provision and delivery of closely-managed services for commuters and school children.
The offer is part of Zeelo’s #KeepCommutingSafe and #KeepSchoolRunsSafe campaigns. Zeelo says that it aims to work in collaboration with coach operators where the two parties together provide:
- Zeelo’s booking platform, through which operators will be able to run services that are bookable by passengers via Zeelo’s app or website. Additionally, Zeelo’s e-ticket solution will be available to manage capacities, encouraging social distancing
- Contact tracing, where all passenger ridership data is live and available for the tracing of infection and to notify those that have been near a person with coronavirus COVID-19
- Suitable onboard procedures, where drivers are provided with PPE and had sanitiser is made available. A policy of no contact boarding will be in place, using centre or rear doors when fitted
- Vehicle signage throughout the coach, which is placed to enforce messaging about social distancing and sanitisation
- ‘Seat blockers’
- A deep clean before each operating day and hard surface disinfection after every journey.
Operators that wish to take up Zeelo’s offer should apply via its website. The deadline is 15 May. Those who are not randomly selected to participate will be placed on a waiting list and included where possible.
SBC Coaches of Leigh-on-Sea has worked with Zeelo during the lockdown period. It is serving a local Amazon fulfilment centre. Says CFO Marc Preston: “We have been operating two vehicles seven days per week, providing safe pre-booked and pre-paid transport. That service has enabled Amazon to provide social distancing for its staff and keep the site operation.”
Adds John Johnson, Commercial Director of Johnsons Coach and Bus Travel: “We have been working with Zeelo for a few years, running commuter and school services. We think this approach may encourage our current set of corporate clients and schools to get back up and running.”
