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The CD/NLA Show is excited to be able to host our first in-person event of 2021, held October 10-13 at the Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center. We want all of our guests to have the best experience possible, so out of an abundance of caution and for the safety of everyone, Chauffeur Driven (CD) and the National Limousine Association (NLA) have announced a series of COVID protocols for attendees and staff. Designed to ensure public safety and mitigate the risk of COVID transmission, the safety plan extends beyond those currently recommended by public health agencies—but is still easy to follow.
In order to receive your show badge, CD/NLA is requiring attendees to show proof of being fully vaccinated (i.e., at least two weeks past the final vaccine shot) or a negative COVID test taken within 72 hours of the show.
Furthermore, while not mandatory, the CD/NLA Show strongly suggests attendees, guests, and staff wear masks during show hours due to the unavailability/impracticality of social distancing at times. A limited number of surgical masks will be available at the registration area.
For those who are unable to show proof of full vaccination or who do not show proof of a negative test, a limited number of daily onsite tests will be available on a first-come, first-served basis for a fee of $50. Also, if an attendee or staff member starts showing symptoms during the show, they may receive an onsite test pending availability or will be directed to a local testing facility.
Attendees and staff may also utilize local COVID testing centers (e.g., pharmacy, clinic, urgent care) to obtain proof of a negative test.
In the event of a positive test, no attendee or staff member may travel to or be present at the event. If an attendee receives a positive test onsite, they will be isolated, and a member of the event team will be contacted immediately. A second rapid test will be administered to confirm the results if requested. If a positive test is confirmed, the person who tested positive must continue to be isolated from other guests or staff to the maximum extent possible. The person will work with the hotel security team on quarantine arrangements at their own cost. Note: the CD/NLA Show will not be responsible for an individual’s expenses incurred due to a positive COVID test result.
A full description of CD/NLA Show COVID Protocols can be found here.
“Your informed participation is critical to the success of this strategy,” said CD and NLA in a joint statement. “For this reason, we want to spell out the reasoning behind our restrictions and protocols so that you can participate with the highest level of informed consent. This is a team effort. Welcome to the team!”
In other news, the exclusive $219/night room block for the CD/NLA Show has been extended until Friday, September 24. This is your last chance to save money and secure a room at this stunning host property. Don’t get shut out… after Friday, the rate will rise! Click here to secure your room today.
We can’t wait to see you—happy and healthy—in Texas this October!
Visit cdnlashow.com for more information.
[09.21.21]
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- Category: Industry News
Motorcoach manufacturer Irizar has added its first liquid natural gas (LNG) long-range i4 model coach to its lineup. This coach, with a range of more than 1,000 kilometers (about 620 miles), is primarily available to customers across Europe.
Irizar II i4 model coach
The first vehicle equipped with this technology is the class II i4 model Irizar. According to the manufacturer, it was designed to be a versatile coach that is perfect for cities, commuter lines, and school or company transport. Additionally, this technology has shown to reduce CO2 emissions by 25 percent, NOx emissions by 85 percent, and particle pollution by 96 percent—which may also lower operating costs up to 30 percent depending on the cost differential of natural gas and diesel. The maintenance cost remains similar to a conventional diesel vehicle, according to data released by the company. In comparison to compressed natural gas vehicles (CNG), LNG takes up less space (600 times less), has an energy density 1.4 greater, and the complete system weighs less.
Irizar II i4 model liquid natural gas system
The LNG range of vehicles from Irizar includes the i4, i6S, and i6 Irizar model coaches. In September, the Irizar i4 will also be available with the new Scania NBG 9I Euro6E 340 horsepower chassis. In 2022, that technology will be extended to the Irizar i6 and i6S models for medium- and long-distance suburban routes with a new generation 410 horsepower 131 NBG chassis.
The full specs of Irizar’s hybrid lineup can be found here.
With this new development, Irizar says it has kept expanding its wide range of technological solutions that can adapt to any need, including zero-emissions electric buses, diesel coaches, biofuel, natural gas, HVO, hybrid, biofuel, and B100.
Visit irizar.com for the manufacturer’s lineup of vehicles available in Europe, or visit irizarusa.com for information about vehicles sold in the US.
[09.20.21]
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- Category: Industry News
On Tuesday, September 14, the Illinois Limousine Association (ILLBA) held the latest installment of their regular Coffee With ILLBA webinars. Eschewing the traditional format of having a guest speaker or themed session, the recent event was titled Ask Us Anything, which gave members the opportunity to openly discuss any industry issues and concerns, or to just share stories.
ILLBA President Art Rento
“This is a great opportunity to get together to brainstorm solutions,” said ILLBA President Art Rento of Pontarelli Companies.
Discussion was spirited and energetic as members tackled familiar issues such as raising rates and the shortage of CDL drivers. Operators expressed their hope that drivers will soon return behind the wheel now that the extended Federal Unemployment Assistance has expired.
ILLBA Vice President Tracy Raimer of Windy City Limousine & Bus addressed the use of yield management/dynamic pricing, which is common among other verticals in the travel industry, but not widely utilized in luxury ground transportation—although it is regularly used by TNCs with surge pricing.
ILLBA Vice President Tracy Raimer
“Is it time we seriously start looking at yield management, and we don’t just do it for Super Bowls, Ryder Cups, and Lollapalooza, but now do it on a daily or weekly basis?” she asked. “Every single service or product that you buy is yield management or dynamic pricing based on supply and demand. Our industry is the only one that will approach you with a rate sheet for the next 12 months. It may be time for our industry to start looking at that.”
Other topics discussed included software compatibility, insurance, workers’ comp, and finding quality affiliates.
A free recording of the webinar is available here. The next Coffee With ILLBA is scheduled for October 19, and is available to all operators.
Visit illinoislimousineassociation.com for more information.
[09.20.21]