The model - With
the release of the Kowloon Motor Bus example back in May 2011, it was
only a matter of time before one of Citybus's two examples was
modelled, and confirmation was received on 28th July 2011, one
day
prior to the model going on sale. The most noticeable difference
between this and the previous model is the fitting of tree
deflectors, which KMB chose to remove.
The bus
- three-axle
double deckers have been the norm for Hong Kong for the past twenty
years, so it was a surprise when in early in 2009 it was confirmed both
Kowloon Motor Bus and Citybus had placed an order for one
vehicle, presumably for evaluation purposes. It is believed that
special dispensation has been granted by the Hong Kong Transport
Department to allow these buses to operate as their weights exceed the
current maximum allowed for two axle buses. These
two buses arrived in Hong Kong,
from the UK, on 23rd November 2009. The Citybus example was
allocated fleet number 7000 and was registered on 1st February
2010, entering service a week later.
These models
differ quite considerably from the standard UK version, losing the
large curved upper windscreen and the rather ugly, in my opinion, front
upper side window. The rear is also much improved. They feature full
air-conditioning and are 10.5 metres in length.
Further
details of the bus can be found in the 
section of the site.
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