June 2017

56 APAC / June 2017 , 1703AP12 Delivering ‘Something New’ Innovation for Avass is a refreshing new inspiration to consistently introduce technology improvements. Their combination of research and field experience in comprehensive test and evaluation brings together products and processes to improve productivity and lifestyles. We interviewed Chairman, Allen Saylav as part of our ‘Best in Australia’ series, to find out more about this innovative Australian firm. At Avass, they look beyond competitor innovations and adapt breakthrough technology systems thus providing significant advantages. Their innovations are directed to commercialised sectors, with resourcing and management to generate profitable returns. Their strengths are in their people. Avass professionals are from diverse sectors of engineering, chemistry, biomechanical, science, automotive, aerospace, rail and electronics. Their dedicated team’s potential has made a mark in developing numerous world first innovations introduced to the marketplace. Additionally, their teams work in unison throughout various locations around the globe, creating and developing new ideas and client requests. Avass collaborates with clients in all business sectors, to develop innovation as a full cycle process, enabling organisations to transform ideas into business models and increasing capabilities. Avass delivers ‘something new’ in terms of their products and services, business processes, product/service delivery, business designs or new styles of management. Chairman, Allen Saylav reveals the competition the firm faces and how their products stand out in the market today, plus the kind of customers they serve. “It is difficult to stand out, with a growing number of competitors in an industry, which is accelerating with each new technology wave. For Avass, we aim to study our product’s users experience and win the minds of customers. The information we receive helps overcome actual and assumed deficiencies. “Avass products vary in their appearance and perception, as well as quality. What is important is the usability, not so much concentrated on visual appearance, but with consistency. Avass ensures that distinct functionality is presented in a way that reflects the differences. Our designs are developed for the simplest usability and functionality, rather than what it may look and feel like. Our products are designed for reliability and are focused on customer demand. “The customer demand we experience is varied by operational factors. For government applications, minimal emissions, new energy technology is an important aspect. For private fleet operators, cost savings in maintenance, running costs, durability, end user comfort and versatility are important factors. For distributors, network availability, convenience, support, logistical programs, effective expertise support, product options and more are important considerations”. Products - full design, production and supply of electric passenger and commercial vehicles Avass currently leads the production of 100% electric vehicles, with a full range of manufacturing operations. Our mission at Avass, is to unequivocally set ourselves apart from our competitors, by creating electric vehicles that no other manufacturer can duplicate. This commitment has resulted in the accelerated development of Avass long distance range passenger buses, capable of driving at speeds over 1000 kms, with a rapid single charge. Allen then details his expert opinion on electric buses, the firm’s touring coach and the local automotive industry today. “The most significant drawback of electric buses globally has been limited range. If an electric bus can only manage 250-300 kilometres on one charge, its operation is restricted to the shorter routes, unless recharging infrastructure is installed along the roads to enable ‘top-up’ charging. Such infrastructure is expensive to buy and install and may also become redundant as electric vehicle technology progresses rapidly. “The Avass City Bus can travel 600 kilometres on one overnight charge, meaning the vast majority of urban routes are possible. There is no need for top-up charging along the way, which saves money up-front and saves time in operational schedules. Our touring coach can travel over 1000 kilometres on a single charge, depending on the configuration of the batteries. More batteries add to the cost and the weight of the vehicle, so are only recommended when required by the duty cycle. “Avass’s headquarters is in Melbourne and our manufacturing plant is near Geelong in Victoria, an area facing increasing unemployment because of the decline in the local automotive industry. Our ambition is to grow our operations significantly over the coming years and become one of the biggest employers in the region. Additionally, we source a wide range of components from Victoria and elsewhere in Australia, supporting jobs and economic growth in other areas.” Core technology Avass Core Technology Batteries are produced in China and are independently tested by various