Real Journeys Invests In Precision Military Technology

9 September 2011

Real Journeys Invests In Precision Military Technology For The Milford Road

Real Journeys has invested in Trac Plus, a premium satellite tracking service used by a range of military and emergency services, as an extra safety precaution for its coach passengers travelling to Milford Sound.

The new tracking device has just been installed on the two new Volvo B12B coaches that are in use over the winter months, and will be extended to the rest of the fleet in the future.

There is virtually no cell phone coverage on the Milford Road and the high surrounding mountain ranges and deep valleys make radio contact almost impossible. With just two land based telephones available en route, there are periods of about an hour when no communication is available with the coach driver. Trac Plus provides coach tracking, emergency distress and satellite text messaging in those remote areas, with most messages received within 20 seconds.

"During the winter months the Milford Road can be challenging. Our drivers receive special training for the conditions and our coaches are purpose built, but the lack of communication on the Milford Road is something we've been trying to overcome for a long time. After much research and testing on the Milford Road, this technology proved streets ahead of anything else. We think our passengers will appreciate this extra safety precaution that no one else is offering," said David Osborne Real Journeys Coach Operations Manager.

The Volvo B12B coaches have been specifically designed for the Milford Road, and have 3-point safety belts, whilst their unique angled "bullet" shape, use of tiered seating and expansive glass is designed to maximise passenger viewing. Built to be as fuel efficient as possible, the latest coaches have the low Euro V emissions ratings and the added benefit of wifi (where networks allow).

As well as being available for an emergency, the Trac Plus system will enable Real Journeys staff to monitor the progress of the coaches along the road so they are aware of any delays.

ABOUT REAL JOURNEYS

Real Journeys is a locally owned and operated company that has guided excursions into the southern region for more than 50 years. It operates in Milford Sound, Doubtful Sound, Queenstown and Stewart Island. For more information please visit: www.realjourneys.co.nz

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