End of the line for old Chamonix buses
Friday afternoon saw the official presentation of the new Chamonix Bus buses, meeting the latest environmental emissions standards.
The newest buses now feature television screens at the front and a tannoy system to let passengers know the name of the next stop. Between drop-offs the screens will be used to give Chamonix weather and lift & pistes information, as well as local events and what's on. There will also be the potential for advertising.
Other features include satellite tracking and navigation so that drivers no longer get lost(!), great manouverability, and a rear door speeding the descent of passengers.
Services to Les Houches have also been increased - the idea being to reduce the amount of light traffic in the valley, and one of the big backers in the system is the Compagnie du Mont Blanc (lift company).
The bus service is free for locals, saisonnaires, and tourists with a Carte d'Hote (issued in hotels and accommodations) or a lift-pass - otherwise a journey cost €1,50.
Fianlly bus-stops are going to get high-tech with new displays giving similar information to the screens at the front of the buses.
