electrical center, making it easier to identify system components and troubleshoot.
STN: What role do Tomas’ dealers play for the company, es-
pecially in this economy? KH: Our dealers are absolutely critical to our success, which is
why we have a strong relationship with our dealer organization. Our dealers are the face of Tomas, providing sales, service and training support to our valued customers. Additionally, our deal- ers have a keen understanding of the industry, and in the current marketplace they provide valuable insights for us to improve our processes to better serve our customers. We know that provid- ing our dealers with the best service and quality possible, we are helping them to provide the same to their customers.
STN: Can you give us any idea what improvements to prod-
ucts and services customers are seeking? Without giving away the farm, can you indicate any avenues Tomas is exploring, or new directions the company will be pursuing? KH: We listen to our customers, and Tomas’ Truck Op-
erating System (TOS) provides the process to incorporate customer feedback into the continuous improvement of our products and internal processes. TOS al- lows us to capture customers’ input, review their suggestions and determine how to implement those suggestions. A recent example was the redesign of the C2 driver’s overhead compartment, resulting in improved durability, larger storage capacity and an im- proved positioning of the interior rear-view mirror. In addition to safety, we know that customers typically focus on function, service- ability and dependability. As for new directions, it’s ob-
vious from the Saf-T-Liner C2e Hybrid and the Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) that Tomas Built Buses is committed to shap- ing the future of transportation by producing environmentally sound products. And the C2 chassis is being built in a zero-waste manu- facturing facility. Internally, we dem-
onstrate that environmental commitment by reducing waste (including recyclables) and reducing the amount of material that ends up in landfills. We’re doing our part for the environment, as well as for our customers.
STN: How is the company doing financially in this down econ-
omy? What are your short-range goals over the next six to 12 months for helping the company weather the current economic conditions? Are there longer-range goals? KH: 2009 was a strong year for Tomas, even in this down
economy. Our short range goals include using TOS to remain as efficient as we possibly can and working with our suppliers to keep costs down to minimize customer impact. Long range, our goal is to remain a leader in the school bus industry by continu- ing to drive cost-effective methods for manufacturing our buses while improving quality.
STN: How specifically can the Freightliner relationship help
Tomas customers survive the current economy when it comes to purchasing and financing new school buses? What economies of scale make this possible? KH: Obviously, being a subsidiary of the largest manufac- turer of commercial vehicles in the world offers some significant advantages, including the supply chain, access to new technology and financing. Daim- ler Financial Services can offer very attractive financing. Because of Tomas’ relationship with Daimler Trucks North America, we’re able to offer the entire package: products, services and financing.
STN: What is Tomas’ current
view of the state of the school bus industry? Do you see any specific
trends that are fueling your confidence for the long-term strength of school transportation? KH: Like every other industry,
school bus transportation has been impacted by the economy. Children will continue to need transportation to and from school, and school buses remain
the logical transportation choice. Without school buses, some academic opportunities no longer would be available. Te yellow school bus is the safest form of ground transportation in
the world. S c h o o l bus-
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