The first two Alexander Dennis Enviro400s
for Hong Kong arrived from the UK on 23rd November 2009, one for Citybus
and one for Kowloon Motor 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 the above operators 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 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.