(08 Sep 2015, 3:17 pm)Davie wrote 4933 Has been repainted
For clarification: former "The Highwayman" branded Scania L94UB/Wright Solar 4933 (Y933 ERG) has been repainted into Go North East's corporate livery.
Stanley's former "Diamond" branded Mercedes Citaro 0530N/Mercedes Citaro 5287 (NK08 CFX) is also at Saltmeadows at present, and this one is also going blue.
(08 Sep 2015, 5:29 pm)aureolin wrote Really? I think they're much better, now that they're clutter free - i.e. none of this 'stay seated' stuff every announce.
I've done the 8/78 a number of times since they were switched on, and I'd say they're pretty much spot on. The volume is just right, and I find the LED display a lot more visible from the rear of the bus. For me though, it doesn't go far enough, and I'd much prefer that they both announced the next stop, but also the stop that the bus is currently at. The screens do it already, but the audio doesn't.
Yes, I agree. I would like the "This is" audio to be announced when the doors are opened, and this would serve as a last minute reminder to customers that this is where they need to alight for x location. As I've said before, Go North East has done both with and without now, and it's a case of finding a happy medium for both drivers and customers (and the same applies for the volume).
I still prefer the regional accent and a familiar voice from radio presenters compared to the monotonous drone found elsewhere; indeed, the new Tyne & Wear Metro announcements are a huge improvement and a step in the right direction, so they're presumably thinking along the same lines as Go North East.