EDITORIAL

120 years have passed since a small carriage repair workshopwould turn into the beginning of what the IRIZAR GROUP istoday. Throughout this long century, IRIZAR has known how torespond and successfully adapt itself to the various challengesand needs of its clients, becoming involved in a continuous effortto improve transport safety and to provide a quality service;rationalising its investments, conserving its capital while alsoinvesting in new technologies and new developments that allowus to guarantee the near future and to face the difficult economicand financial global situation.

In summary, and despite the fact that this year consists of achange in the upwards trend compared to previous years-especially 2008, when all the records were broken-2009, hasturned out to be a year of opportunities that we have been ableto take advantage of, with our eyes set on the future.

It is in this sense that the significant actions undertaken this yearshould be framed: a 15 million euro investment towards innovation,50% more than the previous year, with the presentation of anintegral coach technology, the launch of the Irizar i4 LE (LowEntry), the production of the first urban buses, and the developmentof a new coach model that will come to light before the end of2010; the equally significant investment that, focused on people,covers matters such as training, communication, flexibility withclients or the ability to adapt to change; and lastly, the 2.5 millioneuro contribution, considerably increasing the commitmenttowards society and the environment this year.

Facing the future with optimism

Actions that have already had an immediate effect and that aretranslated into an increased domestic market share and areinforcement of the brand in Europe, proven by the success ofour presence at the last edition of the Busworld fair.

This reality allows us to face the future with optimism, becausetoday we are aware of our ability to adapt to times and situations,our flexibility in addressing all the needs of our clients, and ourcommitment towards continuing to take our clients intoconsideration, as well as passengers, drivers, collaborators, andall the people at IRIZAR, in order to offer the best.

The best aspect is the solidity, the prestige, and the futureguarantee that a great brand is able to reaffirm, with every newvehicle delivered, in its commitment towards innovation, safety,reliability and profitability.

Gorka HerranzPresident of IRIZAR

EDITORIAL

2009 DECEMBER

IRIZAR, INNOVATING FOR 120 YEARS

A consolidated project that has become aworldwide referenceJosé Francisco Irizar is who takes the firststep by opening his blacksmith´s workshopin Ormaiztegi, a small town that is eminentlyrural but well connected to the nearbylocalities. José Francisco would travel toall the corners of the region in order toattend to the neighbours and villagers, forwhom he repaired and supplied wheelsfor their carts.

The first coach (1889-1960)

In 1889, the IRIZAR companyis founded, which is run bytwo of José Francisco´ssons, José Lorenzoand Cecilio. Theycontinue tomanufacture metalfittings and wheels,

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passengers, with bodywork on a chassisacquired from a client in France. This wasa challenge that the Irizar brothers facedwith the innovative spirit that characterisedthem and which they would transfer to thegenerations that followed, until becomingan identifying symbol of the IRIZAR brand.José Francisco Irizar passed away shortlybefore, without suspecting that hisdescendants, and everyone that would

join the project, wouldtransform his small companyinto a worldwide reference forpassenger transport by road.

In 1948, the Irizar brothersincorporate metal to thecoaches and launch themarket’s first handcrafted

although they begin to offer a carriagerepair service. In 1927, IRIZARmanufactures its first coach withmechanical traction, a vehicle for 22

Carriages like this one made up IRIZAR´sfirst steps in the passenger transportsector

In 1927, it manufacturesits first coach

semi-metallic vehicle. Fully metallic coacheswould not arrive until five years later.Additionally, the brothers’ popularityincreased in 1950 with the "Rubia," arancher-style van that was widelyaccepted.

In light of this success and the possibilityto continue growing, in 1956, IRIZARcontacts the Italian company, Orlandi,which, at that time, manufactured the bestcoaches in Europe. During this decade,IRIZAR’s good work spreads to the entirecountry, thanks to an expansion that beginsthrough an alliance with the Compañía deAutomóviles Vascongados (BasqueAutomobile Company) to manufacturebuses for Bilbao. A short time later, thecompany arrives in Madrid, Barcelona,Malaga and Seville.

IRIZAR and the Basque cooperativemovement

In the 1960s, IRIZAR experienced the

2009 DECEMBER

The Irizar Century was a definitivemilestone in launching IRIZAR on anational and international level

The Irizar Century isthe highest sellingbus in the history ofIRIZAR

transformation into a cooperative as thebest way to continue growing andcontribute wealth to its surroundings. NearOrmaiztegi, in Mondragon, Jose MaríaArizmendiarrieta promoted this successfulbusiness model that placed people beforecapital, a business formula that fit perfectlywith the values that Miguel Mari Irizar, itspresident at that time, wanted to maintainand that reinforced the commitment ofpeople to the project, in which employeeswent on to become partners.

• DRAGON 1985. A double-deckercoach.

• PONY 1987. A comprehensive vehiclewith a length of 8 metres and 30 seats.

The high-point of the 1980s was the launchof the revolutionary Irizar Century modelin 1989, coinciding with the celebration ofIRIZAR’s hundredth anniversary. Althoughhigh hopes had been placed on thisvehicle, few predicted the success it wouldbring. It was created to cover regular routesof medium and long distances, as well asfor special services. With the most state-of-the-art design on the market, it hasreceived the Coach of the Year Awards inSpain and the UK. This is the highestselling IRIZAR model throughout the world,having surpassed 20,000 units.

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Constant innovation (1970 – 1990)

During the 1970s and the 1980s, thanksto constant innovations and despite thehigh competitiveness in the sector, IRIZARwas considered to be one of the bestcoach manufacturers in the country.

A journey that revisits the models thatmarked a milestone in this period is thebest way of showing this:

• 1970 – DINAM. A modern bus thatwas completely different from what themarket offered at the time.

• 1972 – KOROSTI. A robust coach witha differentiated design. It won the1972 Gold Giralda Award, an honourgranted to the best Spanish coach.

• 1976 – UREPEL. A coach with a morerounded shape, with reduced fuelconsumption and in which the firstconcepts of air conditioning wereintroduced.

• 1977 – URKO. A perfect combinationof the UREPEL and the KOROSTI.

• 1980 – UDALA and URBIA. Simplifiedversions of the previous model to coverthe demand for low-end productsadapted to the French and Spanishmarkets.

• EVEREST 1981. Developed from anelevated version of the UREPEL, thisvehicle marked a milestone in Spainand was the starting point of IRIZAR´strack record as an exporter.

DINAM URKO DRAGON

KOROSTI UDALA PONY

UREPEL EVEREST CENTURY

Change of direction (1990-1994)

At the beginning of the 1990s, newstrategic lines are defined that will makeIRIZAR grow exponentially, its internationalexpansion begins, the IRIZAR GROUP iscreated, reaching what IRIZAR is today.

Koldo Saratxaga, who joins IRIZAR in1991, is the person that leads this process,carrying out important changes that willdrive IRIZAR to achieve continuoussuccess. As a result of the strong resultinggrowth, a new strategic approach thatinvolves everyone is needed, and byworking as a team, a new culture isadopted with the common objective ofsatisfying clients, which is without a doubtone of the basic pillars for reaching thegroup´s objectives and in driving its growth.

In 1993, one year ahead of the entry intoforce of the anti-rollover Regulation 66,IRIZAR develops a new structure thatcomplies with this rule, becoming areference of safety in the sector.

That same year, IRIZAR´s star vehicle, theIrizar Century, becomes the Coach of theYear in the United Kingdom, replacing thecompany that had obtained the honour inthe 9 previous editions.

Canada and the USA. The later is a countrywhere IRIZAR vehicles had been presentedtwo years earlier.

In 2001, IRIZAR continues its internationalexpansion and inaugurates a factory inIndia, along with TVS and Ashok Leyland,and three years later it enters South Africa.

2001 marks the launch of the Irizar Pb,Coach of the Year in Spain and in Europe,and a vehicle that has deserved the praisesof the best specialised magazines in Europe: "The most economical coach of all time"(Lastauto Omnibus, Germany), "The mostcomfortable vehicle we have ever driven"(Bus&Coach Buyer, United Kingdom).

IRIZAR´s international expansion(1995-2009)

IRIZAR is a project with a strong vocationfor growth and with a clear internationalfocus. If in the 19th century, the goal ofJosé Francisco Irizar was to offer innovativesolutions for the demands of his clients,in the 21st century, the clients to provideservice for are found all over the world. In1995, it opens the doors of its factory inTianjin (China), followed by another one inMorocco a year later, and in Brazil in 1998.

In 1999, the Mexico factory in the state ofQueretaro is inaugurated, which is astrategic place for entering the markets of

2009 DECEMBER

IRIZAR is a project witha clear internationalfocus

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It boasts an excellent reputation amongdrivers for its safety and great stability onthe road. It is ideal for long distance routesand upmarket tourism. Such is the trust

that the brand conveys, that withoutshowing images of the new vehicle, 200units are sold before its presentation.

In 2007, it expands its product line bypresenting the Irizar i4. Conceived toaddress the short and medium distancesegment, it is the passenger vehicle forboth special and regular services of urbanareas.

In 2008, the Irizar i4 LE (Low Entry) versionis presented to the market. It is the firstbus created for intercity and city centretransport service that is based on theconcepts of functionality and with thedesign of a coach.

IRIZAR today

Today, IRIZAR is a business project madeup of more than 3,120 people, withmanufacturing facilities in 7 countries anda sales presence in more than 90 countriesthroughout the 5 continents. Founded in1889, this year marks 120 years of historyas the leader in the Spanish sector andas one of the most important referenceson a worldwide level.

Its main strategy is to “build customerloyalty” by meeting the demands derivedfrom fulfilling key values such as Quality,Service, Costs, Safety and OccupationalHealth, Shared Experience and a Customer

To offer coachesthroughout the worldthat provide safety andcomfort topassengers, andreliability andprofitability to clients

2009 DECEMBER

Oriented Focus, always in a framework ofconstant innovation.

Its vision: to offer coaches and busesthroughout the world that provide Safetyand Comfort to passengers, Reliability andProfitability to clients, striving to be areference for Innovation.

It relies on an innovative managementmodel in which everyone works closelywith clients, basing its activity inmultifunctional teams that manage all theaspects related to them, fromunderstanding client needs through thefinal life of the coach, including itsproduction and delivery. This close bondwith clients is what contributes to a betterunderstanding of their needs, which in turnimproves the relationship with them andtheir satisfaction of the products andservices offered.

IRIZAR offers personalised attention, animportant after-sales service that is ableto resolve any client incident, and a modernlogistical centre from which spare partsare supplied wherever they are needed.

Coaches are developed by creating teamsthat are made up of external collaborators,suppliers, clients and passengers, starting

with an analysis of their needs and with adifferentiated, dynamic and solid design,in line with IRIZAR’s image.

It applies proprietary innovations andtechnological developments, adapting itselfto the markets, regulations andrequirements of each client. As a result ofthis constant innovation, today IRIZAR hasthe following types of coaches: IrizarCentury, Irizar Pb, Irizar i4 and Irizar Iria,which have set a standard in the coachindustry.

Research and investing in newtechnologies are constant at IRIZAR. Itallocates significant financial resources tothe technological improvement of itsproducts. The IRIZAR product line confirmsthe effectiveness of these investments.

A concern for its surroundings, societyand the environment continues to grow inimportance.

A promising future

In recent decades, IRIZAR has beenextensively honoured, on both a nationaland international level; it has obtainedawards and recognitions for its productsand its evolution in business excellence.However, the most important recognitionis the satisfaction and the pride in seeingthe effort of its people, its collaboratorsand its clients compensated with thesuccess of a project that has become aglobal reference.

Recognitions

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IRIZAR’s impeccable business trackrecord has made it worthy of numerousawards and recognitions:

1994The first European luxury coachmanufacturer to obtain the QualityCompany Certificate according to theinternational ISO 9001 standard.

“Coach of the Year” in the UK for theIrizar Century coach model.

1995Prince Felipe Award for BusinessExcellence in Design, awarded by theMinistry of Industry and Commerce.

“Coach of the Year” in Spain for theIrizar Century coach model.

1996Prince Felipe Award for BusinessExcellence in Total Quality Management(TQM), awarded by the Ministry ofIndustry and Commerce.

1997Spanish Entrepreneur of the Year Award,granted by Ernst & Young, La Caixa andCinco Días, in its first edition in Spain.

1998First European luxury coachmanufacturer to obtain the ISO 14001certificate for its environmentalmanagement system.

“Coach of the Year” in Spain for theIrizar Pb coach model.

2004Conética Award for corporate socialresponsibility.

“Coach of the Year” in Europe for theIrizar Pb coach.

2005“Coach of the Year” in Spain for theIrizar Century coach model.

2006ICIL Award for Excellence in Logistics.

2007Best European Multifunctional Coach2007 for the Irizar i4 coach model.

2008“Coach of the Year” in Hungary for theIrizar Pb.

1999Gold Q for Excellence in BusinessManagement in the Basque Country,according to the EFQM Excellencemodel.

2000European Quality Prize (European Prizefor Business Excellence). It is the first Spanish company that doesnot belong to a foreign multinationalgroup to receive the award.

2001Award for the Best Company in theBasque Country.

2002The Harvard Business School Institutehighlights IRIZAR, along with BMW, asone of the European companies with asuperior level of strategic decisionmaking that differentiates them fromother companies.

2009 DECEMBER

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INTERVIEW WITH...

“We are fortunate,our businesscontinues to grow.People always needmusic andentertainment”

MR. SIMON BUDDENS – PHOENIX BUSSING, UK

In what context and with what objectives did the PhoenixBussing company emerge? What is its main activity?

PHOENIX BUSSING was created in 1988 in order to offer themusic industry a service of the highest quality, focused ontransporting music groups and the teams of technicians thataccompany them by road.

Reliability, comfort, and attention todetail, both in the operation as well as inthe design, are the keys with which theBritish company, PHOENIX BUSSING, hasbuilt its success during more than 20 yearsof providing service to the specialisedsector of transporting artists and musicgroups.

The coaches are used forlong trips that last up to sixmonths

2009 DECEMBER

You are focused on a very specificbusiness segment. What is your currentmarket positioning? And what is yourclient profile? Where are you locatedand which geographic markets do youaddress?

We are operating in the top division, workingwith the most famous music groups at thistime, and that are on tour throughoutEurope.

Taking into consideration the specialcharacteristics of your clients, whichinclude important people from theentertainment world, what do they lookfor in your coaches? How do they usethem? What type of trips do they tendto do?

Clients look for reliability, comfort and themaximum attention to all types of details,both in the operation as well as in the design.The coaches are used for long trips thatlast up to six months.

Would you list some of your most famousclients? What is the most unique equipment feature thatyour company has developed? Do you recall an especiallysignificant anecdote? Or an extravagant demand?

Our clients range from the Rolling Stones to Robbie Williamsor Muze. I recall a driver who tended to chauffeur Tina Turner,and one day he had to ask her to be quiet, because he wasthe one that decided the route they would take. Among themost extravagant demands was a request from Dolly Parton,asking for a bathtub to be installed in the coach.

Throughout the history of your business, how has thedemand of products and services evolved in recent years?Have you had to adjust to new circumstances?

Similar to what occurs with housing, people’s expectationscontinue to grow. Recently, a television programme used oneof our coaches to interview a music group, and when theyreturned to the studio, the team of reporters made a surprisedcomment about the bus having a granite sink!

Let’s discuss your policy for purchasing new coaches.Why do you choose the IRIZAR brand? What does it provideyou, compared to other brands?

We have been working with IRIZAR for several years, and it isa brand that offers us maximum flexibility and profitability.

Our clients range from theRolling Stones to RobbieWilliams or Muze

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INTERVIEW WITH...

What special characteristics do the coaches require inorder for you to personalise them? Do you offer differentranges of pre-defined equipment features, or is the buscompletely personalised?

In general, we include 10, 12 or 14 bunks and 2 lounges, andthe coach is equipped with state-of-the-art entertainmentsystems. Additionally, we offer the possibility of cabins withdouble beds.

What are the most common elements, and which are themost personalised? What amenities are normally includedin the coaches you offer?

We offer buses with beds that transport a small number ofpeople. We build the interiors in such a way so as to offer thegreatest amount of comfort, and for them to be as practicaland innovative as possible.

It seems to be nearly impossible to not mention the currenteconomic situation. Does it also affect your activity? Whattypes of projects do you have planned for the short, mediumand long term?

We are very fortunate, our business continues to grow thanksto a meticulous management. People always need music andentertainment.

Keeping in mind that the music business model seems tobe headed towards live performances and less focusedon the sale via physical or digital mediums, can it bepredicted that the need for your products will grow?

This is the case for the time being, and we hope that it willcontinue that way.

In light of the future, what plans does your company have?Do you consider entering new markets, new businesslines?

Our objective is to continue developing our activity in thisspecialised market.

Phoenix Bussing adds two newIrizar-Scania coaches to itsfleet

IRIZAR has just delivered two more units to this company,located in Romsey (Southern England) and focused ontransporting music groups throughout Europe. The two14 metre 480 hp Irizar Century models on Scania chassisjoin a fleet of 26 vehicles.

Phoenix Bussing is a very special company, due to thetype of client that it targets. Its clients include some ofthe most famous music groups at this time, such asColdplay, Robbie Williams, Bruce Springsteen, etc. Notonly does the company provide transport, but it also hasa workshop where it customises its coaches to fit theneeds of its clients.

It´s one of the few companies that targets this demandingsegment, and it has proven its know-how andprofessionalism throughout the years.

IRIZAR is a brand that offersus maximum flexibility andprofitability

2009 DECEMBER

IRIZAR presents its new model in Mexico, theIrizar i5

IRIZAR, which celebrates its 120th anniversary in 2009, hascompleted 10 years since its establishment in Mexico, doingso by once again obtaining the leadership in that market. Whatbetter way to celebrate this than by choosing this CentralAmerican country as the platform to launch the new Irizar i5,which is presented with special exterior and interior designcharacteristics. Its appearance, equipment and componentsare greatly influenced by the Irizar Pb and Irizar i4, and it is alsobased on the concepts that have characterised IRIZAR:innovation, reliability, profitability, comfort and safety.

The Irizar i5 will be positioned in the passenger transport segmentof urban areas and tourism, with medium distance route services,and it will especially be destined for use in regular routes of thatcountry.

The safest coach in Mexico

During the development of this new model, special attentionhas been paid to the aspects related to safety, which hasresulted in the Irizar i5 being the safest coach in Mexico, sinceit is the only one in its class to have obtained the approval ofthe R66/01 regulation, which guarantees the maximum resistancein roll-overs, as well as the maximum safety in a head-oncollision.

Additionally, other improvements have been incorporatedcompared to its predecessor, such as increased driving stability,a better load distribution balance between the axes and thecentre of gravity, and improved aerodynamics. Also, the torsionrigidity has been increased by 30% and the flexural rigidity by80%. Its front headlamps have 60% more illumination, and thedriver ergonomics have been improved by adding 20% morespace and improved accessibility to the controls.

WITH AN APPEARANCE SIMILAR TO THE IRIZAR i4 AND WITH SPECIAL ATTENTION TO RELIABILITY

Mexico has been the country chosen to launch the new Irizar i5 model, which is beingpresented to cover the medium distance segment and completes the renewal of the coachproduct line offered in that country.

With this launch, IRIZARcelebrates 10 years ofsuccess in Mexico

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IRIZAR GROUP MEXICO

High profitability and reliability

The design of the new Irizar i5 has also obtained betteraerodynamics, which aside from giving a spectacular view,provides significantly improved fuel consumption, easiermaintenance through better access to its critical points, andthe standardisation of its components with the rest of the IRIZARproduct line. Various performance tests have been carried outin different Mexican routes and areas, reporting better resultsthan those of any of its competitors in equivalent routes.

Conceived from the specific needs of clients, the new Irizar i5has superior interior and exterior illumination, as well as thelargest interior passenger area on the market. It also offerssolutions that make it more functional and reliable, with systemsthat have been tested and improved compared to the previousmodels, and with more convenient access for older adults andchildren.

This new model has a height of 3.50 metres and will be availablein lengths of 11.40, 12.20, 13.00 and 13.80 metres. In its initialphase, it will be mounted on Scania, Man and Mercedes Benzchassis, but in the future, it may be mounted on any otherchassis available in the local market. In summary, the Irizar i5is a coach with a unique appearance that is comfortable andvery safe for completing all types of routes and services.

The Irizar i5 is the safestcoach of its class inMexico

Improvements that havebeen incorporated into theIrizar i5 compared to itscompetitors:

• Increased safety, since it is the onlyone in the market with the R66/01regulation.

• Less consumption, by more than10%, due to its aerodynamics.

• Better driving stability due to the loaddistribution balance between the axesand the centre of gravity.

2009 DECEMBER

Founded in 1979, thehistory of MGB has beenclosely linked to theMansoor family ever sinceUri Mansoor became thesole owner of the companythat same year

The event involved a gathering ofeveryone who works for IRIZAR to givea warm welcome to the Mansoor familyand to acknowledge their many years ofdedicated cooperation. Gorka Herranz,IRIZAR’s Chairman, gave a speech inwhich he highlighted Mr. Mansoor’sprofessional and personal qualities. “Weknow that you attach great importanceto a cordial and sincere relationship withfamily and friends. Today we wish toshare those values with you, for they arealso our values and the key to ourproject’s success”.

In the course of the event, the Mansoorfamily was given a manuscript signed bythe Management Board and theOrganization Committee on behalf ofeveryone at IRIZAR, as well as a traditionalBasque beret and a makila (a handcraftedBasque cane that is a symbol of friendshipand acknowledgement to someone).Next, there was an aurresku dance inhonour of all the members of the family,who were called onto the stage.

Mr. Uri Mansoor, visibly moved, gave hissincere thanks to everyone at IRIZAR fortheir kind statements and said that the

Ceremony to honour the Mansoor familyLast October, IRIZAR organised a recognition ceremony to honour the Uri Mansoorfamily after 30 years of successful cooperation.

relationship would continue through hissons and son-in-law, who have alreadybegun to occupy their positions in thefamily company.

Uri Mansoor also mentioned other people,distributors, customers and institutionswith whom he has had an excellentrelationship in the past and in the present.

IRIZAR, leader in Israel

30 years of a successful relationshipbetween IRIZAR and the MGB firm haveled IRIZAR to become Israel’s leadingtrademark in coaches, with over 1,800units sold to date. The sales volume thisyear was 163 units, the fourth best yearin the history of Israel, despite the difficulteconomic and financial situation andcurrent instability in that country.

Ever since MGB was incorporated in1979, when Uri Mansoor became thesole owner of the company, MGB hasbeen closely linked to the Mansoor family.The first IRIZAR coaches were sent toIsrael in the 1980s. Since then, the IrizarUrbia, Irizar Urepel and Irizar Everestmodels soon became popular in Israelwith the names of Silver Lyon, SilverLeopard and Silver Camel, respectively.In 1992, the Irizar Century model waslaunched with equal success. In 2000,MGB was awarded the top prize asIRIZAR’s best distributor, with over 300coaches sold. Later, there would be newchallenges when the Irizar Pb was broughtinto the market in 2002, and when thecompany started to work with otherchassis manufacturing companies as well.

Whereas the company only worked withVolvo chassis in the 1980s, in 1991 a

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IRIZAR GROUP ISRAEL

close relationship began with the CNECfirm (Man Israel). A year later, the companybegan to work with Tashtit (Daf Israel),and in 1995, with Scania Israel. In 2005it began to work with Colmobil (MercedesIsrael) and in 2009 the company alsobegan to work with Feldman&Sons (IvecoIsrael).

MGB IRIZAR is now poised to launch anew 7,000 square metre plant betweenJerusalem and Tel Aviv in early 2010,through a 3 million euro investment inorder to continue providing services tothe company’s customers in Israel.

30 years of a successfulrelationship betweenIRIZAR and MGB hasturned IRIZAR into thenumber one brand in Israel

Uri Mansoor, the owner of MGB, receives a manuscript from Gorka Herranz, theChairman of IRIZAR, at a ceremony held to honour the Mansoor family for 30 yearsof a successful business relationship between the two companies

IRIZAR GROUP

Commitment towards Corporate SocialResponsibility

IRIZAR continues to work towardsimproving the environment in which itcarries out its activities, of all the countrieswhere it is established. This year, it hasdestined 2.5 million euros, considerablyincreasing its commitment towardssociety and the environment. Thiscontribution is primarily destined tosupport activities related to theenvironment, culture, sports, universitytraining and to assist disadvantagedgroups.

Respecting the environment is definedas a top priority, and it is not surprisingthat IRIZAR was the first coachmanufacturer to obtain the ISO 14001certification in 1998, while undertakingthe the Ormaiztegi plant expansionproject. IRIZAR continues its search foralternative materials and productionprocesses that are more respectful of theenvironment and of sustainability. Similarly,it has recently joined the Stop CO2Euskadi initiative of the Basque Office forClimate Change, implementing actionstowards reducing gas emissions withgreenhouse effects.

Supporting disadvantaged groups isone of IRIZAR’s commitments tosolidarity

Additionally, IRIZAR states its socialvocation by developing socioculturalcollaborations in the seven countries inwhich it is established, and it also carriesout acts of solidarity all over the worldthrough non profit organisations withprojects primarily in Haiti, Rwanda, Benin,the Philippines, Colombia, Senegal, andMozambique.

IRIZAR continues to destine a strongeffort, both economically as well as ofthe dedication of its people, tocontributing to the socio-economicimprovement of its environment and ofthe society that it is a part of.

2009 DECEMBER

IRIZAR has contributed 2.5 million euros in 2009 to support its social environment

IRIZAR carries outvarious acts of solidarityall over the world,through a variety of nonprofit organisations

LA SEPULVEDANA S.A. Company, aninstitution in Spain, showed their trustin IRIZAR by purchasing four newcoaches for their regular bus servicebetween Madrid and Segovia.

The four vehicles were blessed at amoving ceremony held in the RoyalPalace in La Granja de San Idelfonso(Segovia, Spain) on 23 November. Theevent was organised by Mr. Pablo MartínBerrocal and attended by FatherFrancisco and Father Angel, twentypeople from the company, localpoliticians, and managers from IRIZARand Mercedes. The ceremony endedwith lunch at the National Parador inSegovia.

LA SEPULVEDANA S.A. decided todiversify its product range by purchasingtwo Irizar Pb and two Irizar i4 modelsmounted on Mercedes OC500 Euro 5chassis.

The new coaches are an Irizar Pb witha length of 12.92 metres and a heightof 3.5 metres, equipped with 55 seats;and an Irizar Pb with a length of 15metres and a height of 3.7 metres,equipped with 69 seats. Both vehiclesare equipped with cushioned seats with

LA SEPULVEDANA, S.A. adds four new IRIZARcoaches to their fleet

a central armrest and double-glazedVENUS windscreens with an integratedsunscreen for passenger comfort. Oneof them also includes an automated liftfor passengers with impaired mobility.

In addition to the Irizar Pb´s, the companypurchased two Irizar i4 coaches that are13 metres long and 3.2 metres high, oneequipped with 55 seats and the otherwith 53 seats, and a cassette-typeautomated lift with a single seat for peoplewith impaired mobility.

With the purchase of these stet-of-theart coaches manufactured by IRIZAR,the LA SEPULVEDANA, S.A. Companyconfirms its commitment to reliability,safety and profitability.

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The company boosted their commitment to reliability, safety and profitability with thepurchase of two Irizar Pb and two Irizar i4 models

Representatives of IRIZAR and LASEPULVEDANA during the deliveryceremony of the four new vehicles

SITA, an Italian passenger transportcompany, has just purchased 50 Irizari4 model coaches from IRIZAR, the firstcoaches of this model that will form partof this customer’s fleet.

These are 50 Irizar i4, H version unitsmeasuring 12 metres in length on aScania K320 Euro 5 EEV chassis whichwill be used for intercity routes in thecities of Florencia, Padova and Potenza.

SITA purchases 50 Irizar i4 coaches

The company is committedto state-of-the-art coachesthat guarantee a safe andcomfortable journey

14 units of this order will also beequipped with the Masats KS7 lift forpeople with reduced mobility. This is aninnovative automatic mechanism thatrequires no hydraulic or pneumaticinstallation, for the pump is includedinside the cassette itself. It has a loadcapacity of 350 kg and it complies withthe EC2001/85, DDA and ONUR107regulations.

These coaches are in addition to the 40Irizar Intercentury and the 2 Irizar Pbmodels that this company already had,for a total fleet of 92 IRIZAR models.

The company, which belongs to theFerrovie dello Statto Group, isheadquartered in Florence and it primarilyoperates in the regions of Basilicata,Campania, Puglia, Toscana and Veneto.In this way, it confirms its commitmentto incorporate state-of-the-art coachesthat guarantee its customers a safe andcomfortable journey.

SITA in figures:

Total routes in 2008 (in km): 73.310.188

Kilometres of local public transport: 66.337.162

Personnel on December 31, 2008: 2.104

Buses on December 31, 2008: 1.472

2009 DECEMBER

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PAGE 23

controls and the access door, as well asthe fire extinguishers and the first aid kit.Next, they were shown where to cut thebodywork in the event of an emergency.

The visit was a fulfilling experience forthe fire-fighters, and part of IRIZAR’sphilosophy of sharing their knowledge ofcoaches with public service andemergency personnel. The on-site safetytraining will be highly useful to the fire-

IRIZAR plans totrain and transferits knowledge toprofessionals ofpublic andemergencyservices

Last October, for the second consecutiveyear, a team from the RegionalGovernment of Biscay’s Fire Brigadevisited IRIZAR’s facilities in Ormaiztegi(Spain) to gain first-hand knowledge onhow their coaches are built and on theirsecurity and evacuation features.

First, the team was shown where themain safety elements are located andhow they work: the roof hatch, the sideand rear windows, the emergency

fighters when they need to openemergency doors in difficult situationsand when cutting a coach’s bodywork tofree trapped passengers.

For IRIZAR, passenger safety is a key concern

TRAINING FIRE-FIGHTERS IN COACH SECURITY

Actions taken to enhance the performance of public service and emergency personnelin accidents involving coaches.

A group of fire-fighters from theRegional Government of Biscay visitingIRIZAR

2009 DECEMBER

IRIZAR is the first Basque coachmanufacturing company become a PlusMember of the STOP CO2 Euskadi. Thecompany is now one of the select groupof organisations with a recognisedenvironmental track record andconsiderable local influence. This is anadditional step in IRIZAR’s commitmentto combat climate change and encouragelocal organisations and the greatercommunity to reduce their greenhousegas emissions.

STOP CO2 Euskadi is the first initiativefor action to combat climate change setup in the Basque autonomous region thatcomprises actions by citizens, companiesand the regional government. The initiativewas born with a top priority: to encourage

local organisations to become voluntarilyinvolved in reducing greenhouse gasemissions.

IRIZAR has a long track record inenvironmental management. In 1998, itwas the first European coachmanufacturing company to attain the ISO14001 Certificate. Now it takes anothergiant step forward in responsiblemanagement by extending itscommitment towards sustainabledevelopment to include the localenvironment and the greater community.

IRIZAR has set up a series of actions toreduce the company’s greenhouse gasemissions, including the installation of airducts in the paint rooms, which have

lowered energy consumption by 23%.IRIZAR has also undertaken to involveits staff and customers in the fight againstclimate change through an eco-awareness campaign and educationalprogrammes on eco-efficient drivinghabits that help to reduce vehicle-relatedgreenhouse gas emissions.

With this initiative, IRIZAR confirms itscommitment as an eco-friendly company.It takes its social role in climate changeseriously by involving everyone in theorganisation in its environmental efforts.IRIZAR is a pioneer in adopting policiesand innovative initiatives to ensuresustainable development and improvethe local environment.

IRIZAR boosts its commitment to combat climatechange

ACTIONS TO REDUCE GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS

STOP CO2 was born with a top priority:to encourage local organisations tobecome voluntarily involved inreducing greenhouse gas emissions

CLIENTS

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IRIZAR strengthens its sales in Nigeria

In 2009, IRIZAR has strongly picked upits sales in the Nigerian market byoffering solutions that adapt to theoperative difficulties in this country ofthe African Atlantic coast.

By taking into consideration its localneeds and facing the hard reality of thecountry’s lack of security and the hardconditions of its roads, a specific coachversion has been developed for Nigeriathat is equipped with special protectionsfor the driver and guide area.

The units meant for Nigeria have 59seats in addition to two seats for theguide, one located in the driver´s cabinand the other by the rear door. Theyinclude air-conditioning or additionalequipment to address the needs of eachoperator in the country.

In 2009, the sales figure of this countrywill reach 100 units, all mounted on

Mercedes-Benz chassis, and of which70 have already been exported.Customers include the N.F.F. (theNigerian Football Federation), which haspurchased two units for transporting itsplayers.

The forecast for 2010 is to continuewith a sales volume similar to that ofthis year, consolidating the presence ofthe IRIZAR brand in this market.

A special coach version adapted to the local needs has been developed

By the end of 2009, the sales in Nigeria willreach 100 units, of which 70 have alreadybeen delivered

The fire-fighters of the French AtlanticPyrenees department have acquired aluxurious Irizar Pb coach. This purchasehas been made possible thanks to thefinancial resources generated by theorganisation of the 2006 InternationalFire-fighters Conference in Pau, thecapital of the department.

The main reason that led the organisersto purchase this vehicle is to provide thefire-fighters and their families with acohabitation space when leisure andcultural trips are organised.

At the same time, for professionalreasons, the fire-fighters frequently hadto resort to renting coaches for theircontinued outings throughout the year,for which the new Irizar Pb will now be

available as well. These trips primarilytook place to travel to the sportscompetitions in which they participatethroughout France, and also to providereinforcement in the areas that arenormally affected by fires in the south-east region of the country, Provence andthe Mediterranean.

The new Irizar Pb, which is 14 metreslong on a Scania chassis, has 50 extra-

An Irizar Pb for the fire-fighters of the AtlanticPyrenees (France) department

This vehicle becomes acohabitation space for thefire-fighters and theirfamilies during leisure andcultural trips

cushioned leather seats with centralarmrests, an equipped kitchen-cateringarea, and two game tables with facingseats. Technological devices has alsobeen included for making multimediacomputer presentations, with two interiorcameras and microphones foraddressing the passengers, three LCDscreens, audio-DVD equipment, aBlaukpunt navigator, Wi-Fi throughoutthe vehicle, six 220V outlets and acentralised vacuum.

2009 DECEMBER

Atlantic Pyrenees fire-fighters with therecently acquired Irizar Pb

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On 17 September, a new Irizar Pb coach was delivered to theNAJERA S.L. Company for Madrid’s Rayo Vallecano footballclub. IRIZAR continues to manufacture coaches for Spain’sprofessional football teams by adding the Rayo Vallecano to along list of teams – Real Madrid, Valencia, Sevilla, Atlético deMadrid, Atlético de Bilbao, Osasuna, and Real Sociedad–, whoalready place their trust in IRIZAR when they travel by road.

The team’s new model is an Irizar Pb, 12.92 metres long and3.5 metres high, mounted on a Mercedes OC500-E5 chassis,with independent suspension and an automatic Astronictransmission system.

The vehicle is equipped with all the conveniences of a luxurycoach: a toilet with plenty of standing and elbow room, extra-thick cushioned leather seats with an armrest in the middle,tables for each seat, foot rests and two game tables in the backof the coach so the team may enjoy board games during thetrip.

In addition to the accessories for maximum comfort, the coachis equipped with the latest technology, including an individual

IRIZAR with professional football

THE RAYO VALLECANO FOOTBALL TEAM TRAVELS IN A NEW IRIZAR PB

sound system for each passenger and 6 outlets throughout thecoach for connecting PCs and other devices to the 220Vnetwork. The coach also boasts a large-capacity freezer in theback where the team’s physical therapists can store ice fortreating the football player’s bumps and bruises after a game.

At the recent edition of the Busworld fairthat was held in the month of October,IRIZAR presented the first two coachprototypes with integral coach technologyon its Irizar Pb and Irizar i4 models. Thestrategic objective of this new technologyis to expand the existing offering ofcoaches (chassis plus bodywork) forclients by complementing and offering acomplete IRIZAR coach in the future, andin the markets that demand it.

With this innovative technology, IRIZARoffers clients a new alternative that willcomplement the current offering ofcoaches manufactured on all the chassisbrands available in the various markets,with which it intends to continuecollaborating.

To develop this new technology, IRIZARrelied on the most prestigiouscollaborators: DAF for the engines; ZFfor the gearbox, axes and steering,Wabco for the suspension and thebrakes, VDO Continental for theelectronics, and companies of recognisedprestige in their field have provided theremaining components.

DAF, ZF, Wabco and VDO Continentalare the companies collaborating inthis project

IRIZAR takes one morestep in its commitmenttowards technologicalinnovation, anticipatingthe future marketneeds

2009 DECEMBER

ONE MORE STEP FOR INNOVATION

Integral coach technologyIRIZAR presents two coach prototypes with integral coach technology at Busworld.

INNOVATION

PAGE 29

The project to develop this technology iscurrently in its initial phase. After thepresentation of the first prototypes, thecorresponding reliability tests are beingcarried out at the IDIADA AutomotiveTechnology facilities, one of the largestEuropean installations dedicated to theresearch, development, testing andhomologation of vehicles. Afterwards, thepre-series units will be manufactured,which will be delivered to various clientsso that they may test them and providetheir own contributions. It is planned forthese first units to be delivered before theend of 2010.

As far as the sales and assistance service,currently in the development process,IRIZAR will offer a complete service inline with the needs of each market.

On another hand, it should be pointedout that IRIZAR does not consider thepossibility of designing specific bodyworkfor the integral coach tecnology, but ratherit will be adapted to its entire productline. In this manner, the Basque companytakes one more step in its commitmenttowards innovation, anticipating the futuremarket needs at all times. This year, thebudget destined for investments in

innovation has been increased by morethan 50% in comparison to last year,reaching 15 million euros, of which 6million correspond to the developmentof the integral coach technology.

After the presentation of the firstprototypes, the correspondingreliability tests are being performed

IRIZAR offers clients an additional alternative thatwill complement the current offering of coachesmanufactured on all the chassis brands in themarket, with which it intends to continuecollaborating

The first units of the Irizar Iria urban coachmodel are already circulating along theavenues of Rabat, Casablanca andMarrakesh.

Various reference clients in Morocco, suchas Karama Bus and Lux Transport, bothbelonging to the Grupo Joumani, as wellas Alsa, have been the recipients of thesefirst deliveries.

In this way, the company fulfils the objectiveestablished by the IRIZAR Group in Julyof 2008, during the inauguration of the

IRIZAR urban buses are already circulatingin the main cities of Marocco

new IRIZAR MAROC factory, when the itannounced the decision to beginmanufacturing urban buses in Moroccoto address the needs that had beenrequested on numerous occasions by itsauthorities.

The vehicles delivered, manufactured onVolvo and Scania chassis, have a lengthof 12 metres and a height of 3 metres,with a Low Entry configuration to facilitatepassenger access as much as possible,and they are equipped with doublepneumatic sensitive doors with interior

2009 DECEMBER

As IRIZAR alreadyannounced during theinauguration of its plant inSkhirat, in July of 2008, thisyear it has begunmanufacturing urban buses

emergency buttons. They have 41 seatsand an area prepared for people withreduced mobility, with the possibility ofinstalling an access ramp. The interior ofthe Irizar Iria has clean lines and is verybright thanks to the large window area.The handrails for standing passengers aremade of stainless steel. Another importantaspect of this urban bus is the easy accessto all of the maintenance areas.

Introducing this model into Moroccorepresents a large qualitative leap in regardsto what currently exists in the market.Additionally, the Low Entry configuration

PAGE 31

PRODUCT RANGE

is a significant innovation for passengers,since it provides access without steps.

The strategy planned for the Irizar Iria isto export this product from Morocco tothe rest of the world. In this regard, IRIZARhas started to develop the prototypes ofthis model for South Africa and Australia,while new markets are being studied.

Prototypes forAustralia and SouthAfrica

Prototypes of the Irizar Iria vehicle arebeing developed for the Australian andSouth African markets, with theobjective of adapting it to the needsand strict regulatory restrictions of thesecountries.

The Australian regulations primarilyaffect matters related to access, interiorspace, and signage, since people withreduced mobility access through thefront door. The seats may bedisassembled and easily fastened,which allows to increase the capacityof people with reduced mobility whennecessary, and the doors are equippedwith sensitive edges.

Additionally, it should be equipped witha camera system, signage andemergency exit lighting that operatesup to 15 minutes after the batterieshave been deactivated.

One of the Irizar Iria urban busesmanufactured at the Skhirat factory,circulating through the streets ofCasablanca

Australia and SouthAfrica, where Irizar Iriashould prove its versatilityand adaptability, makeup the next two urbanbus challenges for theGROUP

2009 DECEMBER

EVENTS

PAGE 33

Leading the Spanish companies inKortrijk, IRIZAR attended the twentiethbiennial edition of the Bus and CoachTrade Fair, the most important in thesector on an international level, with itsown stand. For the first time, theGuipuzkoan company appeared by itselfin this hall, with its own 650 m2 standthat honoured the brand´s values ofinnovation. IRIZAR participated in theopening ceremonies of the event andheld a press conference to reinforce itsbrand values, and also presented itsentire line of coaches, which wasattended by more than 90 news mediafrom all over the world, proving to beone of the sector´s leading internationalreferences.

IRIZAR relies oninnovation as theformula to boost itsactivity and consolidateits future growth

Among the products displayed in thestand were an Irizar Century, an Irizar i4,both on Scania chassis, as well as a 15metre Irizar Pb with integral coachtechnology, the main innovation thatIRIZAR presented at this fair. Outside,receiving visitors at the fair entrance, twocoaches stood out-an Irizar i4 withintegral coach technology, as well as theIrizar i4 LE (Low Entry) bus on a Volvochassis, launched in the Spanish marketin 2009 and with an excellentacceptance. The presentation was proofof IRIZAR´s innovative vocation, andmanifested the brand´s strength and thesolidity of its products in the variousmarkets. The IRIZAR stand was one ofthe most visited, and numerous clientsand collaborators from all over the worldstopped by.

IRIZAR is a protagonist atBusworld 2009

THE EVENT TOOK PLACE IN KORTRIJK (BELGIUM) FROM THE 16TH TO THE21ST OF OCTOBER

IRIZAR attended with its own stand for the first time, andpresented its entire line of coaches

Service and safety aretop priority values forIRIZAR

Commitment towards safety andservice

In this manner, IRIZAR presented asample of its most recognised coaches,making clear its commitment towardssafety and service. The importance givento safety at IRIZAR, both active as wellas passive, acquires a special relevancein all its products, and it is a top priority,starting at the design phase. Thecompany invests in and anticipates thedemands and regulations of each marketin order to reach and guarantee the

An extensive representation ofthe IRIZAR team, which for thefirst time, appeared by itself atthis fair with its own 650 m2 stand

2009 DECEMBER

maximum levels for both the driver aswell as passengers.

In regards to service, IRIZAR offerspersonalised attention and an importantafter-sales service that is able to resolveany client incident, as well as a modernlogistical centre from which spare partsare supplied wherever they are needed.

IRIZAR continues investing in thedevelopment of new products andtechnologies with the goal of continuingto offer its clients the best alternatives,

and it has begun the development of anew integral coach technology for theentire product line. This new technologywill supplement future offerings and thecurrent configurations, even as IRIZAR

Among the productsdisplayed at the fair, thetwo Irizar Pb and Irizari4 coaches with integralcoach technologystood out

will continue to manufacture for all of thechassis that are available on the marketas a primary business line.

Technological innovation

IRIZAR continues to believe in innovationas the formula to boost its activity andconsolidate its future growth. It makesa strong commitment in the field ofinnovation. This year, the budgetallocated to this area has increased bymore than 50%, reaching 15 millioneuros.

One of the keys to the success of IRIZARproducts lies in the fact that clients,passengers, drivers and techniciansparticipate in their development asexternal collaborators who contributetheir ideas and specific needs.

Integral coach technology has beenincluded in this line, with the strategicobjective of expanding the client offeringsby providing a complete IRIZAR coachto the markets that demand it.

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EVENTS

IRIZAR continues believing ininnovation as the formula to promoteits activity and to consolidate itsfuture growth

This close bond with clients is whatcontributes to a better understanding oftheir needs, which in turn improves therelationship with them and theirsatisfaction with the products andservices offered.

A consolidated background

Founded in 1889, this year IRIZAR marks120 years of history as the leader invarious markets and as a worldwidereference that manufactures more than4,200 units each year.

True to its principles, IRIZAR believesthat the future entails sharing andcontinuing to offer new solutions thatare in line with the needs of its clients.

IRIZAR continues to rely on innovationin the development of new coachmodels. Along this line of work, on April30, IRIZAR launched the Irizar i4 LE (LowEntry), conceived for outlying andsuburban transport.

2009 DECEMBER

EVENTS

PAGE 37

IRIZAR attended the Bus & Tourism Fairin Rimini, held in October as part of theTTG business to business fair devoted totourism, which is considered a benchmarkof Italian tourism for hiring between thesupply and the demand.

Born as a side event in the tourism fair,the Italian Bus & Tourism event has becomea benchmark for the coach companiesthat operate in the tourist industry.

IRIZAR attended this year’s fair with its fullrange of products, consisting of a 14.37Irizar Pb model, two Irizar Century models(13.37 and 12.37), and an Irizar i4 H versionmodel with a length of 12 metres, allmounted on Scania chassis.

IRIZAR in the National Bus & TourismTrade Fair in Rimini

TOP BENCHMARK IN THE ITALIAN TOURIST MARKET

Once again, IRIZAR hasshown its decisivecommitment towards theItalian market, where thecompany continues toboost its brand’s image

IRIZAR was at the twentieth edition of theNational Coach and Bus Week organizedby the National Bus Transport BusinessFederation (Fenebus), which on thisoccasion, was held in Murcia fromNovember 10th to 13th. This is a meetingof reference for businesspeople of thepublic passenger transport sector. It wasfirst held in Vigo in 1970, and it has beento cities such as Seville, Torremolinos,Zaragoza, Palma de Mallorca and Sitges,among others.

In addition to taking part in the worksessions and supporting the Show’sinitiative, the objective of which is toimprove and promote public transport –a sector that gives employment to about87,000 people in Spain – through theanalysis of business management and thequality of the services, IRIZAR sponsoredthe lunch held on November 12th for allthe delegates and their companions in arestaurant in the outskirts of Murcia, whereit also displayed an Irizar Pb of IRIZAR’sContempolis Ampo cycling team and anIrizar i4 LE (Low Entry) coach.

Throughout the meeting, there was alsoan Irizar Pb coach, belonging to thecustomer Latbus, as the official coach fortransporting the workshop participants.

The meeting was held in six workingsessions in which the present and futureof the sector were discussed. They wereattended by general managers of transport

Once again, IRIZAR waspresent at the twentiethedition, supporting thisinitiative as sponsor

The six Fenebus working sessionswere helpful in debating the presentand the future of the sector

2009 DECEMBER

The 20th National Coach and Bus Week held inMurcia (Spain)An Irizar Pb, the official coach of the 20th National Coach and Bus Week

from several autonomous communitiesand from the Ministry of Development,political representatives related to thetransport committees of the Chamber ofDeputies and the Eurochamber, transportbusinesspeople and delegates of theFenebus territorial associations.

Using the slogan, "Come by bus! It´s goodfor you, and better for everyone," the weekwas marked by its internationality due tothe participation of professionals from alarge number of countries, both of theAsian continent and of Ibero-America, andwhich hosted an international table focusedon the business opportunities for Spanishbusinesspeople in the international market.30 national and international speakers and500 professionals from the road passengertransport sector in Spain attended theworkshop.

transport by establishing quality plans,reserved platforms and legislative reforms.

Sustainable transport and the introductionof new technologies for improvinginformation services for citizens wasanother matter that played a major role atthe workshop, as did the passengertransport regulations during the Spanishpresidency of the European Union in 2010.

This edition was brought to a close by theSecretary of State for Transport, FernandoPalao, who presented the PassengerTransport Medals of Merit to the sector´sbusinesspeople, in recognition of theirprofessional careers.

The Minister for Public Works and TerritorialOrganization, Jose Ballesta, presided overfirst work session, during which reflectionswere made on promoting the use of public

IRIZAR took an Irizar Pband an Irizar i4 LE (LowEntry) to the restaurantwhere it offered the lunch

30 national and internationalspeakers and 500 professionalsfrom the road passenger transportsector attended the workshop

PAGE 39

EVENTS

2009 DECEMBER

ON THE ROAD THROUGH RAJASTHAN

An adventure in the land of the maharajahsAn unforgettable journey in a 4x4 invites you to dream and to discover secrets andmysteries that surround the north east of India

The road is not good, and we will needabout five hours to do the journey. Jaipuris also known as the Pink City becauseof the colour of its buildings, built in the18th century by the maharaja Jai ShingII. Its city centre also has a very intensivelife with bazaars in which everything canbe found, labyrinthian palaces, a largeartificial lake and the coming and goingof multitudes who walk along its streetsamong the noisy flow of cars, trucks,rickshaws, carts and even horses, camelsor elephants. The City Palace allows us

ON THE ROAD

PAGE 41

We begin our journey in Delhi, a contrastof modernity and traditions, to go into awonderful country that perfectly maintainsits customs.

We decide to rent a four-wheel-drivevehicle and we embark on our journey inDelhi, the capital of India, with a populationthat reaches almost 14 million inhabitants.Located to the north of the country in thestate of Haryana on a large plain, thisuniversal and cosmopolitan city is actuallythe sum of two cities: on the one hand,Old Delhi, surrounded by the Red Fortwalls, inside of which are clustered housesand shanties. On the other hand, NewDelhi: a magnificent Imperial City builtalong tree-lined boulevards and spaciousbungalows designed by Lutyens andBaker in the 1920s.

The architectural legacy of its Islamicconquerors is rich and varied, the colonialcentre is particularly impressive. Thebazaars and the large number of shopsthat offer an overwhelming variety ofproducts like spices, fabrics or spareparts for automobiles are striking. Thetraffic jams, the sounds and the noisepollution (especially from the horns thatsound continuously) create everyday trafficthat is always chaotic. For fast transport,we can hire, in any point of the city, oneof the thousands of rickshaws ormotorised tricycles that wind throughDelhi´s thick traffic. Nowadays, all thecapital’s public bus services work withnatural gas, although finding a free seatis a job that defies all western notions ofcourtesy.

We continue our journey to Jaipur, thecapital of the state of Rajasthan, locatedat a distance of 150 kilometres from Delhi.

to remember the splendid past of themaharajas, and the wonderful HawaMahal or Palace of the Winds must bevisited. This five-floor mansion was builtin 1799 on pink sandstone for the womenof the Royal Family to be able to observethe intense traffic of the main street. Itsbeehive appearance, endowed with 953windows, has made it the most desiredimage of Jaipur.

Twelve kilometres away, perched high ona hill by the entrance to the desert, is the

Palaces, temples, fortsand many monuments aregood reasons for thosewho visit this area for thefirst time

Amber Fortress. Built in the 11th century,it reminds us of this city´s warlikecharacter. Fulfilling a tourist ritual thatevokes the times of the marahas, we shallclimb up to the gates of the fort on thebacks of elephants to enjoy an unbeatablepanoramic view over Jaipur once we arethere.

Pushkar is the third stage of our journeythrough Rajasthan. This is a holy city, apeaceful and mystical centre ofpilgrimages and rituals. Just like manyother places in India, it has the typical“ghats” or stairways that lead down to asmall lake, a haven of peace that invitesyou to meditate. However, the growth intourism has now made its accessrestricted; photos cannot be taken of thelake, and you cannot get too close unlessyou collaborate with a few coins inexchange. Pushkar has a templededicated to Bhrama, since according tothe Hindu mythology, the lord of theUniverse chose this city to live.

Approximately 11 kilometres to the southeast, we reach Ajmer, a town with goodconnections with all the important citiesof the area. It is also a well-knownpilgrimage centre for Hindus and Muslims.

We leave Ajmer and, in our four-wheel-drive vehicle, we head for Jodhpur, theblue city from which we are separated byabout 200 kilometres. The journey lastsfor more than five hours, and weencountered some surprises along theway. Itinerant markets and stands thatthe nomads set up for selling food andclothing are common. Jodhpur isoverlooked by a type of eagles nest luxuryfortress built atop a 125 metre-high cliff.When viewing it from a distance, we havethe impression of looking at the greatestof all fortresses. In Jodhpur, blue takespossession of the houses in the oldquarter which, from afar, stand out asthough they form a luminous painting.

The following day, we embark on our nextto last stage towards Jaisalmer. The roadto this town, located 285 kilometres fromJodhpur, is also complicated since wemust enter the desert, with more andmore desolate landscapes and dunesthat threaten to cover the road with sand.

2009 DECEMBER

ON THE ROAD

PAGE 43

We manage to reach Jaisalmer, a placewhere, just like many other cities, animpregnable fortress stands out at thehighest point with the golden colour ofsandstone shining at dusk. Nowadays,

Our adventure ends in Udaipur to thesouth of Rajasthan, the most romanticcity in India, founded in 1568 by themaraha, Udai Singh II. The impressiveCity Palace occupies the elongated hilltopon the eastern shore of the lake. It housesfantastic overlooks, pleasant patios,museum pieces, frequent references tothe Sun and marvellous views of the lakeand the small island occupied by theLake Palace Hotel, with rooms that cost600 dollars and a 4,000 dollar presidentialsuite.

80% of its inhabitants make a living fromtourism, who still remember the old camelcaravans that used to head for the SilkRoute.

Jaipur is an excellententrance door to thisfascinating regionsurrounded by legendsand mysteries

Miguel Mari Irizar, thecompany president inthe 1960s, wanted togenerate wealth in thesurrounding area

At the beginning of the sixties, IRIZAR wasone of the main industries of Goierri. MiguelMari Irizar, its president, also wanted tocreate wealth in the environment as thecompany grew, which coincided with thecooperative ideology.

Mondragon, a few kilometres away fromOrmaiztegi, experiences the launch ofindustrial cooperativism in the BasqueCountry. The priest, Jose MariaArizmendiarrieta, its main driving force,promotes the cooperative formula forobtaining a society in which businessinterests and the community’s interestswalk hand in hand, a society in whichpeople outweigh capital.

2009 DECEMBER

Míguel Mari Irizar, in the centre of the photograph, was the last of the Irizar familymembers to be in the company´s leadership

HISTORY OF IRIZAR (III) : THE 60s

A project for people (1963-1973)During the sixties, IRIZAR becomes a cooperative company, setting the foundations ofan important social project

REAR-VIEW

PAGE 45

The Irizar brothers had observed for yearshow well-trained people were leaving thecompany to work for themselves or forthe competition, while they experienceda lack of capital for making investmentsthat allowed them to continue to innovateand to attend to the demand. They foundthe cooperative philosophy to be a goodformula for involving employees in thecompany´s future, by giving the memberthe right to participate in its managementthrough democratically elected bodies.

Also, Caja Laboral, which started out livingon the cooperatives of Mondragon,provided financial and technical supportfor the group´s member organisations,while Lagun Aro offered the social supportneeded by the people that made up thecooperatives. These two entities wereessential for developing Basquecooperativism.

So, management called the workers to ameeting with Jose Maria Arizmendiarrietain the Ormaiztegi cinema and, in 1963,

Becoming a cooperative allowed IRIZARto continue along the lines of productinnovation and development. New marketswere explored, such as manufacturingrefrigerated vans, which in the end, didnot prosper. But work continued inoptimising the company´s the company’soutput to a maximum and in investing innew technologies.

IRIZAR became a cooperative made upof 60 members. For this, members hadto pay an initial contribution of 50,000pesetas, the equivalent to the cost of aSEAT 600, the car in fashion in those days.It was a very high amount for the time,and it was supported with the guaranteeof the Irizar brothers, who had every faithin this formula.

José María Arizmendiarrieta Madariaga, founder of the Basque cooperativemovement, inspired a new philosophy that the Irizar brothers considered to be agood formula for involving employees in the company´s future

In 1963, IRIZARbecame a cooperativemade up of 60members. Themembers had to pay aninitial contribution of50,000 pesetas, theequivalent to the cost ofa SEAT 600

In parallel to this organizational change,the company’s internal management hadto be adapted. In 1969, Miguel Mari Irizargave way to Kepa Anabitarte, who tookcharge of the cooperative’s management.

At that time, IRIZAR was in the positionof being one of the country’s best coach-building companies, thanks to its constantresearch and despite the sector´s highlevel of competitiveness. In 1970, itmanufactured the first coach with airconditioning, which became its majorcompetitive advantage, while two yearslater, one of the vehicles manufacturedwas awarded the “Giralda de Oro” prizefor Spain’s best coach, which increasedconsiderably the brand’s fame.

With the Dinam model being leader on themarket in the seventies, IRIZAR was nowa reference in coach manufacturing, withmodels like the Urepel, Urbia and Korosti,which incorporated several features, butdid not prevent ending 1973 with losses.The energy crisis had arrived.

At the beginning of theseventies, IRIZAR wasalready in the positionof being one of thecountry’s best coach-building companies

2009 DECEMBER

The various models manufactured inthe 1960s included numerous features.In 1970, the first coach with air-conditioning entered the market