The order is part of SBS Transit’s on-going replacement of its fleet of 2,700 buses with vehicle with better environmental performance. These would be the first Euro 4 city buses in Singapore. With Euro 4 EGR, lower emissions are achieved at the combustion stage, without the need for additional additives and tanks.
“This transaction is an expression of SBS Transit’s great confidence in Scania’s products and service back-up,” says Norman Koh, General Manager of Scania Singapore.
It also marks the start of a long-term strategic partnership between Scania and SBS Transit when it comes to evaluation of new concepts and systems for public transport. The development of the new city buses for Singapore has occurred in close collaboration between the two companies.
All the buses will have bodywork produced by Gemling Coachworks in Malaysia. Deliveries will take place during late 2007 and in 2008.
These wheelchair accessible buses (WAB) feature a low entry, step-less design that will also appeal to senior citizens, and passengers with children and baby trams. Wide out-ward swinging exit doors also aid in a safe, comfortable and speedy passenger entry and exit.
Safety is a primary concern for both Scania and SBS Transit. The structure of the bus – made of high tensile aluminium is not only light to save weight and fuel economy, but also meets SBS’s stringent demand for a strong body.
The buses are fitted with automatic brakes with is engaged whenever either doors are open. The brakes disengage only when the doors are closed and the driver steps on the accelerator pedal. CCTV cameras also provide the driver with a clear view of the exit doors.
Active safety features such as anti-lock braking system (ABS) and traction control are standard on these buses.
All buses are fitted with a 6-speed ZF automatic transmission that matches the engine’s high torque at low revs characteristic – giving excellent driveability and low fuel consumption.
Another main feature of the new buses is the new ergonomic driver area. Features such as hanging brake and accelerator pedals – similar to the ones in a passenger car; a fully adjustable steering column; and strategically placed switches and gauges reduce driver fatigue thus improving safety and productivity.
