ABC Envisions the Future with NextGen FX Concept Coach at UMA Expo 2017
ABC Companies will feature a fully-connected, tech-laden concept coach at Booth #1635 during UMA Expo 2017 in St. Louis, Missouri. The Van Hool NextGen FX prototype coach was created to showcase how future technologies can create unprecedented opportunities for passengers, drivers and business owners. Integrating an elaborate and expansive variety of practical and futuristic passenger and driver features, the NextGen FX concept combines intelligent control systems, integrated infotainment platforms, enhanced onboard connectivity and more.
The only one of its kind coach is built on a 2-door Van Hool TX45 model, and features a multi-zoned floor plan where visitors can experience new and emerging technologies. With designated zones that showcase cutting-edge systems from intelligent driver’s controls, to robust infotainment platforms that integrate virtual reality and gaming stations, surround sound and more – the NextGen FX model simulates how passengers and drivers might experience and interact onboard an advanced design environment. A full “features & highlights” equipment guide will be available at the ABC booth, which provides in-depth specifications for the NextGen FX model – key features by Zone include:
Zone A: Advanced-Technology Driver Area - designed and fabricated to enhance driver control, safety and confidence, the driver’s zone features the ultimate in cutting-edge systems from global leaders in cloud-based navigation, predictive intelligent systems, advanced driver assistance, telematics, and more.
Zone B: Forward Seating – features premium passenger seating with large-monitor Bosch infotainment center for operator supplied multi-media, passenger-supplied presentations or other standard video sources.
Zone C: Exterior – features automatic luggage bay doors and a new entry door button.
Zone D: Fridge Area – features commercial grade stainless steel, double-pane tempered glass refrigeration unit for enhanced food service. An interior passenger camera is also featured in the fridge area to provide greater driver views of passengers, improving safety and awareness.
Zone E: Multi-Media Area – Designed to offer the ultimate passenger experience, Zone E demonstrates the full use of mobile connectivity for infotainment, gaming devices, mobile charging and more including:
- Touch screen computers with multi-network connectivity to support WIFI, streaming media, real-time CCTV applications and more
- Integrated wireless charging stations for mobile-device recharging
- Glyph personal in-seat theater — big-screen entertainment in personal space
- Infotainment Viewing Center — Wireless entertainment system lets passengers choose their own content putting a multi-media experience and personal choice in their hands.
Zone F: Rear Conference Room/Lounge - Business travelers will enjoy full-functionality and discreet privacy plus the ultimate in gaming and entertainment aboard Zone F’s mobile-office environment with:
- Sliding privacy divider doors
- Electro-chromatic dimmable privacy window feature
- 4K Ultra HD 63” Curved Smart TV for business presentations, customized-content in dramatic detail
- Nine-speaker playbar surround sound with compact-sized sub-woofer
- Xbox One advanced multi-player gaming system
- Integrated wireless charging stations for mobile-device recharging
Zone G: Virtual Reality Center – Designed to immerse passengers in a robust entertainment experience the VR center is designed to demonstrate how operators can up their game with:
- 27-inch multi-touch monitor, slim profile touch screen display with wide-viewing angles and built-in full HD webcam
- 4K Ultra HD 42-inch slim-profile flat screen TV for advanced color, contrast and sharpness.
- Oculus Virtual Reality Headset – full VR immersion for movies, gaming or connecting with friends featuring advanced display technology and state-of-the-art optics to provide amazing fidelity and the sensation of presence!
- Glyph personal in-seat theatre offers big-screen entertainment in personal space
- Touch-panel LED Mood Lighting – emits single or multi-color lighting synchronized to beautiful chord music delivers a dramatic sensory experience.
While many of the NextGen FX features are in development as production prototypes, ABC does currently offer a number of them as upgrade options on Van Hool equipment. UMA attendees can take a hands-on tour at ABC Booth #1635 at UMA Expo 2017. The ABC commercial team will be available on the show floor to provide more information and answer questions.
Enhancing the passenger experience, driving greater benefits to business owners and creating safer, more ergonomic driver controls were all key factors that influenced the concept coach design according to Dane Cornell, ABC CEO. “The NextGen FX concept merges our team’s pragmatic and creative thinking,” said Cornell. “It epitomizes the imagination of the innovative culture within ABC.” The company hopes to demonstrate to visitors how future-thinking ideas shown aboard the NextGen FX prototype today might facilitate commercial success in the future.
