Driving ambitions... the Wrightbus way
15 February 2011
Belfast Telegraph
http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/business/small-business-can/driving-ambitions-the-wrightbus-way-15084351.html

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Jack Kernohan and William Wright

WILLIAM Wright began his career working in his father's shed behind their house at Warden Street in Ballymena in the 1940s.

Fast-forward six decades and the family firm, The Wright Group, now employs almost 1000 people and their buses can be seen cruising the streets of London, Singapore and Las Vegas.

Back at home, car drivers and passengers can be seen to do a double-take as buses headed for London destinations like Islington or Tottenham Court Road, or sleek gold Hong Kong-bound double deck vehicles with route displays in Cantonese, pass them on their test drives along the M2.

In its latest coup, the company won the contract to design, engineer and build London's replacement for the world-famous red Routemaster double-decker.

The buses are to be ready for the road in time for the London Olympics in 2012 -- a far cry from the school minibuses, work vans and delivery lorries that were once the company's staple.

And William Wright still turns up for work every day, aged 85.

The impressive story of how, has now been committed to print by a former employee.

Wright's recently celebrated over 60 years in business and former sales director Jack Kernohan, who retired in 2005, was convinced to record the history of his former workplace.

"Ted Hesketh, the retired managing director of Translink, said that if I didn't write a book, no one would," he said.

When Mr Kernohan retired from Wrightbus, after working for the company for half a century, he had never operated a computer.

"I had to teach myself the basics before really getting down to the task," said Mr Kernohan.

"The company records of those early years are non-existent, but, fortunately, I had kept many of the old photographs.

"I know myself that William Wright is always looking over the next hill, seeing what is coming over the horizon. He does not have time to look behind him, but I would be more interested in the history side of things."

His book, The Wright Way, goes back 64 years to 1946 when skilled joiner Bob Wright was asked by the manager of the Ballymena and Harryville Co-op if he could build a wooden body for a new bread van. The answer was "yes" and the foundations of the company which exists today were laid.

As the business grew, Bob was joined by his son, William.

Mr Kernohan joined the firm in 1955.

He had been educated at Ballymena Technical School, where he completed a joinery apprenticeship. He also travelled to Belfast to work at McLaughlin & Harvey, before joining Robert Wright & Son.

"Back when I started they were still using the old wooden frameworks," he said.

"But even that far back they were developing new ranges, new products, helping the workers develop their skills.

"I eventually went into management, I was production manager at first, then went into customer care and then into sales, ending up as sales director, all over a period of 50 years.

"The family ethos of the company is as strong today as it was back when I started, when there were only 26 people employed with the firm.

"Even these days, you see newspaper articles celebrating when call centres start a few people here and there -- but Wright's still takes on scores of new people every year."

The company has always been at the forefront of travel industry technology.

"The biggest shift in the business came with the development of the PSV (public service vehicle) buses," he said.

"Before that we were building 40ft trailers, coal lorries, delivery vehicles, and we knew we could no longer keep to that remit because of what was happening in Europe. With the Common Market, the larger companies were all buying each other up and a lot of smaller coach builders went to the wall.

"That forced us to grow and Wright's is still the largest family-owned bus manufacturer in Europe.

"All other bus chassis are manufactured in mainland Europe.

"As you can imagine, at the height of the Troubles, going over into the heart of London to sell buses -- as soon as the buyers heard the words 'Northern Ireland'... it was difficult.

"Look at things now. Look in the background of any news reports about London and you will see buses driving around that were built in Ballymena -- just look for that black 'W' on the front grille."

Wrightbus currently supplies vehicles to travel companies Arriva, First Group, Ulster Bus, Bus Eireann, and Go Ahead.

Last year the firm secured orders for 290 completely built double-decker buses for the Kowloon Motor Bus Company in Hong Kong.

There is also new business in Singapore -- the parts are shipped over, along with Wright's staff, who train their foreign counterparts in how to assemble the vehicles.

Some aspects of bus travel that passengers now take for granted originated at the Galgorm plant.

"William Wright first had the ideas about accessibility in the late 1980s," said Mr Kernohan.

"He wanted for a lady with a baby in a pram to be able to walk straight onto a bus.

"He wanted for someone with a stick not to have to climb up steps, he wanted for someone in a wheelchair to be able to have that bus lowered down for them to get on board.

"The lowering buses and the Floline floor technology were developed in the 1990s and it all came from Mr Wright's vision," said Mr Kernohan.

"Wright's diesel electric hybrid double-decker buses hit the roads 10 years ago -- we are only seeing hybrid cars being used on the streets now, and still very rarely.

"Hydrogen fuel cell-powered buses are yet another first for Wrightbus -- the first to be built in the United Kingdom.

"A batch of these clean vehicles are being used on a busy central London route.

"In Las Vegas, they wanted the articulated buses, the Streetcars, again, the first of which were designed and built in Ballymena."

Not surprisingly, Mr Kernohan has dedicated his book to the employees of The Wright Group.

It is interesting to note HK is introducing 2 axle double-deckers.

What would be the philosophy and the trend moving forward? 2 axle double-deckers are shorter and less capacity. Will the frequency be increased to maintain the route capacity? Is this going to improve overall system efficiency interms of overall costs, environment impact and service to customer?

I quite like these new gen 2 axle double deckers. Without the benefit of studying the actual numbers, my estimate is that the 2 axle double-deckers will be better efficient in terms of cost/seat, environment impact, etc. Being slightly more manoverable, they may also impose less impact on the traffic. Furthermore, with higher frequency (i.e. so as to maintain the overall system capacity), this may offer better customer service.

I hope the numbers will attest to these.

It is interesting to note HK is introducing 2 axle double-deckers.

What would be the philosophy and the trend moving forward? 2 axle double-deckers are shorter and less capacity. Will the frequency be increased to maintain the route capacity? Is this going to improve overall system efficiency interms of overall costs, environment impact and service to customer?

I quite like these new gen 2 axle double deckers. Without the benefit of studying the actual numbers, my estimate is that the 2 axle double-deckers will be better efficient in terms of cost/seat, environment impact, etc. Being slightly more manoverable, they may also impose less impact on the traffic. Furthermore, with higher frequency (i.e. so as to maintain the overall system capacity), this may offer better customer service.

I hope the numbers will attest to these.
I doubt there is a movement to remove the 3-axle fleet. Think the 2-axle is still useful for less busy routes although I do see more newer single-deckers lately as well.

Increasing frequency isn't much of an option anymore despite heavy demand on major trunk routes due to road capacity issues.

It is interesting to note HK is introducing 2 axle double-deckers.

What would be the philosophy and the trend moving forward? 2 axle double-deckers are shorter and less capacity. Will the frequency be increased to maintain the route capacity? Is this going to improve overall system efficiency interms of overall costs, environment impact and service to customer?

I quite like these new gen 2 axle double deckers. Without the benefit of studying the actual numbers, my estimate is that the 2 axle double-deckers will be better efficient in terms of cost/seat, environment impact, etc. Being slightly more manoverable, they may also impose less impact on the traffic. Furthermore, with higher frequency (i.e. so as to maintain the overall system capacity), this may offer better customer service.

I hope the numbers will attest to these.

Hong Kong law limits the loading weight of 2-axle vehicle of any kind to a certain amount, and anything more than that requires the 3rd-axle. This triggers the reason of the overwhelming number of 3-axle double decker in HK.
The trend will continue to be 3-axle for the 11 to 12m buses since it's required by law.

The import of new 2-axle shorter buses is more likely to serve routes that require high maneuverability on the hilly and swinging terrain in HK. These routes used to be served by short-bus with less capacity, anyways, so the new 2-axle bus isn't reducing the route capacity overall; it's just a normal change over in fleet at the older buses toward their end of service life.

Good for the denser area of a city, gives riders a better view of squares and city attractions.

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By ~衝 from a Hong Kong transport forum :

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LCQ13: Service life of franchised buses
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
Government Press Release

Following is a question by the Hon Audrey Eu and a written reply by the Secretary for Transport and Housing, Ms Eva Cheng, at the Legislative Council meeting today (March 9):

Question:

I have received an increasing number of complaints from members of the public that some old franchised buses are still in service even after reaching 17 years of age, but may, on application, continue to run for a further year. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:

(a) of the purpose of extending the service life of a franchised bus beyond 17 years;

(b) of the procedure for applying and extending the service life of a franchised bus beyond 17 years; and

(c) of the number of buses currently operating under such an extension and the number of extensions approved in each of the past five years, together with a breakdown by the emission standard met by the buses (set out in the table below)?

Emission
Standard/
Year 2010 2009 2008 2007 2006
Pre-Euro
Euro I
Euro II

Reply:

(a) The franchised bus companies have committed to replacing buses before they reach 18 years old in order to maintain a proper and efficient franchised bus service to the travelling public. Buses aged 18 and above would not be allowed to operate on the road unless under very special circumstances, such as to meet unforeseen need arising from the late delivery of replacement vehicles.

(b) All franchised buses operating on the road would need to go through vehicle examination annually to certify their roadworthiness before they can be put into operation. In case of application for extending the service life of a franchised bus after reaching the age of 18, the Transport Department would vet the justifications for such applications carefully and must be satisfied that there is no reasonable alternative before granting the approval.

(c) According to our record, no franchised bus at the age of 18 and beyond was in service between 2006 and the present. There are currently 117 buses between 17 and 18 years of age operating on the road (out of a total of 5,784 buses) and the Transport Department has not received any application for extending their service life beyond the age of 18.

By ~衝 from a Hong Kong bus forum :

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Bus stop terror: 4 stable
28 March 2011
The Standard

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Four people remain in stable condition after a runaway car plowed into a bus stop, injuring 15.

They include the 48-year-old driver, whose Subaru station wagon started the chain of events at Lung Cheung Road in Wong Tai Sin.

About 6pm on Saturday, the Subaru hit a Honda Accord, then swerved onto the pedestrian walkway outside Choi Hung Estate, police said.

The Subaru careened for 70 meters before finally crashing into a bus stop.

Most of those injured were waiting for the bus, and said things happened too quickly for them to avoid the speeding car.

Eyewitnesses said they saw the Subaru's driver clutch his chest before he lost control of the vehicle.

The injured, ranging in age from two to 75, were taken to Queen Elizabeth and Kwong Wah hospitals.

The police investigation is continuing.

LCQ11: Wheelchair accessible low-floor buses
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Government Press Release

Following is a question by the Hon Albert Chan Wai-yip and a written reply by the Secretary for Transport and Housing, Ms Eva Cheng, at the Legislative Council meeting today (April 6):

Question:

On May 6, 2009, I raised a question in this Council regarding the issue that most of the trips of the bus routes to and from Tin Shui Wai were not serviced by wheelchair-accessible low-platform buses. It has been learnt that as most of these trips are at present still not serviced by low-platform buses, wheelchair users often have to wait for more than 30 minutes for such buses. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:

(a) of the respective numbers of low-platform buses added to the fleet of each franchised bus company and the respective percentages of such addition during the two periods from May 2009 to May 2010 and from June 2010 to the present;

(b) of the daily number of trips of the bus routes to and from Tin Shui Wai which are run by low-platform buses at present, and the percentage of such number in the total number of relevant bus trips, and how such figures compare with the relevant figures in May 2009; and

(c) whether it will reconsider adding a clause to the future franchise agreements with the franchised bus companies, requiring them to retrofit facilities to all in-service non-low-platform buses to make it convenient for wheel-chaired users to board and alight buses; if it will, of the details; if not, the reasons for that?

Reply:

President,

(a) The total number of wheelchair accessible low-floor buses in the franchised bus fleet has increased from 2,892 in end-May 2009 to 3,082 in end-May 2010, and further to 3,251 in end-February 2011, representing a growth of about 6.6% and 5.5% respectively. The number of low-floor buses of the franchised bus companies is shown at the Annex.

(b) In end-May 2009, the total number of bus trips to and from Tin Shui Wai was about 3,600 per day, of which some 2,530 trips or 70% were operated by low-floor buses. In view of the commissioning of the Kowloon Southern Link by the MTR Corporation Limited in August 2009, the services of some bus routes have been rationalised. At present, the total number of bus trips to and from Tin Shui Wai is about 3,380 per day, with some 2,600 trips or 77% made by low-floor buses. Compared with the situation in end-May 2009, the number of trips operated by low-floor buses to and from Tin Shui Wai has increased by about 70 per day.

(c) All franchised bus companies, except New Lantao Bus Company (1973) Limited (NLB), have agreed and implemented since 2001 that all new buses purchased as additional or replacement vehicles will be wheelchair accessible.

As regards NLB, topographical constraints make it unsuitable for wheelchair accessible low-floor buses to ply along all of its routes. However, NLB has purchased and deployed wheelchair accessible low-floor buses as far as practicable to run on routes where the terrain permits.

Annex : http://gia.info.gov.hk/general/201104/06/P201104040180_0180_77424.pdf

By ~衝 from a Hong Kong bus forum :

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Bus firms hike fares
The Standard
Wednesday, April 20, 2011

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Many passengers riding with Kowloon Motor Bus and Long Win Bus will have to pay from 20 to 70 HK cents more for each trip.

The increases, which come into effect in the middle of May, were approved by the Executive Council yesterday - though they are less than half what the franchised bus operators wanted.

KMB and subsidiary Long Win, which runs mainly on Lantau, had asked for fare rises of 8.6 and 7.4 percent, respectively, but Exco pegged them at 3.6 and 3.2 percent.

So 49.7 percent of KMB's 2.6 million daily passengers must from May 15 pay up to 50 cents more, while 1.7 percent have to find an additional 60 cents.

The other 48.6 percent will either pay up to 20 cents more or will not be affected.

For Long Win Bus passengers, around 15 percent will pay an extra 70 cents or more, while 85 percent will either pay an extra 30 cents or not be affected by the rise.

Secretary for Transport and Housing Eva Cheng Yu-wah described the approved rates as a "fair balance" between minimizing the burden on passengers during inflationary times and enabling operators to maintain quality services in the face of higher fuel and labor costs.

And she argued that it was right to allow the rises even though KMB made a profit of HK$900 million last year. "Their return on average net fixed assets is much lower than what the system allows," Cheng said.

The hikes are also lower than the accumulated inflation rate of 5.72 percent, she added, as the companies last raised fares - by 4.5 percent - in 2008.

Even so, the operators are disappointed with the Exco decision to halve the proposed increases.

"As fuel expenses accounted for about 18 percent of KMB's total operating costs in 2010, a 60 percent fuel price hike will alone drive up KMB's total operating costs in 2011 by about 10 per cent," a company spokesman said, noting that "is far higher than the approved rate of fare increases."

The price of near-zero sulfur diesel, which is used by both bus fleets, has indeed surged since last July, from HK$669 per barrel to HK$1,034.

A 3.8 percent decline in commuters because of the expansion of rail networks has also made operations more challenging, the spokesman said.

Andrew Cheng Kar-foo, chairman of the Legislative Council panel on transport, said: "The government has already given the go-ahead to fare increases of several transport operators this year.

"Higher bus fares will place an extra financial burden on the community."

Executives of New World First Bus and Citybus say they do not have plans to apply for fare rises.

But the Mass Transit Railway Corp is raising fares by 2.3 percent from June, and five ferry routes will see fares increasing by about 10 percent from July.

Additionally, a government review of fare- increase applications by taxi, tram and minibus operators is now under way.

A special route shuttling passengers from Admiralty MTR to King Yin Lei, a historic home in Midlevels that was only open to the public on select days recently.

By 9013-HT9707 from a Hong Kong discussion forum :

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KMB facing loss from fuel costs
Hong Kong's biggest bus operator may seek further fare increase in the face of rising diesel prices
21 May 2011
South China Morning Post

Kowloon Motor Bus (KMB) could soon apply for another fare increase. Its management is warning that, for the first time in a decade, it could make a loss.

Hong Kong's largest bus operator - whose profit contribution to holding company Transport International Holdings has shrunk over the years - raised its fares by an average of 3.6 per cent on Sunday.

But the group's managing director, Edmond Ho Tat-man, said the HK$200 million a year the fare increase would generate would not fully cover its fuel costs, which are expected to increase by HK$500 million this year.

"We are not making enough to cover our expenses. If oil prices don't fall, we will be in the red this year," Ho said.

KMB's listed flagship Transport International, which makes money from leasing and selling property at its former depots and operating local coach services and public transport in Shenzhen and Beijing, reported a net profit of HK$866 million last year, nearly 30 per cent above that of 2009.

More than half the profit came from sales and interest earnings from property projects in Lai Chi Kok, including offices, shopping malls and luxury apartment block the Manhattan Hill. Excluding two one-off gains, its franchised bus operation accounted for just HK$243.3 million of its profits, down 38.4 per cent from 2009.

The company blamed that drop in profit on fuel costs, which were HK$1.14 billion last year and made up nearly a fifth of KMB's expenses. The price of the near-zero-sulphur diesel the company uses jumped from US$86 per barrel in July - when KMB sparked a public outcry by proposing average fare rises of 8.6 per cent - to US$138 per barrel last month.

Ho said 60 per cent of KMB's 380 routes were losing money - an all-time high. "Most of these routes overlap with rail lines and are seriously underused. Some trips, even at peak periods, carry less than 15 passengers but our proposals to trim or remove them are always opposed by district councillors."

Route restructuring can only get tougher in the next two years, with elections being held for district councils and the legislature. Councillors will be particularly reluctant to agree to reduce public services. Last year councillors rejected seven of KMB's 16 applications to trim routes; just nine of its 3,800-strong bus fleet were taken off the road as a result.

KMB hopes to import at least 10 supercapacitor buses - an electric model that recharges via an overhead cable at bus stops - by the end of next year. Deputy managing director Evan Auyang said it hopes the technology will be mature enough by then for KMB to adopt it rather than buying diesel-powered buses that meet the European Union's new Euro IV emission standards.

The group's shares closed up 0.87 per cent at HK$23.20. Auyang said the market was worried Euro VI buses could use more fuel than Euro V models since they will require extra power to reduce emissions of pollutants such as nitrogen oxide.

By EL6749 from a Hong Kong bus forum :

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By MP7697 from a Hong Kong bus forum :

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KMB takes route to $108m buys
The Standard
Thursday, June 30, 2011

Kowloon Motor Bus will spend HK$108 million on 60 single-deck vehicles to be used on less popular routes.

The company will also replace 36 single-deckers more than 15 years old.

KMB head of depots Ho Chi-man said yesterday the number of less popular routes has increased, especially in the New Territories, owing to population movements.

KMB has also proposed replacing double-deckers with single-deck buses on 20 routes where demand has fallen.

If approved, the new services will begin early next year.

Ho said the the new single-deck buses are environmentally friendly, emitting 94 percent less particulates and 79 percent less nitrogen oxide than existing vehicles, several of which have been in use since 1994.

"In addition, most of the older buses have steps at the entrance, which makes it difficult for the elderly and those in wheelchairs," he said.

The new buses have lower floors and the ramp at the entrance may be lowered by 25 centimeters to allow wheelchairs.

By kukokulll from a Hong Kong bus forum :

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New franchises for three franchised bus companies
Monday, July 18, 2011
Government Press Release

A Government spokesman said today (July 18) that the Government plans to start negotiations with three franchised bus companies in the fourth quarter of this year for renewing their franchises to take effect immediately upon the expiry of their existing ones, in order to ensure the continuous provision of proper and efficient public bus services for the public.

The spokesman said that the current franchises of Long Win Bus Company Limited (LW) and Citybus Limited (Citybus) in respect of its franchise for the Airport and North Lantau bus network (Franchise 2) will expire on May 1, 2013. The current franchise of New World First Bus Services Limited (NWFB) will expire on July 1, 2013. The three franchised bus companies have indicated an interest to renew their franchises for another 10 years.

The main operating areas for NWFB are on Hong Kong Island while those for LW and Citybus (Franchise 2) are in North Lantau and the Airport.

"NWFB, LW and Citybus (Franchise 2) have been providing proper and efficient bus services, and have demonstrated their willingness to invest for further improvements," the spokesman said.

"In order to ensure continuous provision of essential public bus services for the public, the Administration plans to negotiate with the three franchised bus companies new 10-year franchises. The Administration will seek to update the terms and requirements so as to keep abreast of the times, and request the bus companies to enhance the level of services."

Starting from today and until September 30, the Government invites the public to offer views on the requirements of the new franchises of the three franchised bus companies. The Government also invites views from the Traffic and Transport Committees under the 18 District Councils.

The relevant paper on the franchises of the three franchised bus companies can be downloaded from the websites of the Transport and Housing Bureau (www.thb.gov.hk) and the Transport Department (www.td.gov.hk). The public may send in their views on the requirements of the new franchises of the three franchised bus companies by post (addressed to Bus and Railway Branch of Transport Department, 40/F, Immigration Tower, 7 Gloucester Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong), fax (2802 2679) or email (franchise-renewal@td.gov.hk).

By 將軍澳 from a Hong Kong bus forum :

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nice!

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Politicians in all camps give bus firm's fare fund call short shrift
The Standard
Monday, July 25, 2011

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Lawmakers from across the political spectrum have given a proposal by Kowloon Motor Bus for the government to provide seed money for a fare stabilization fund the thumbs down.

Transport International Holdings, which runs KMB, made the suggestion last week after issuing a profit warning and claiming that 60 percent of its routes are losing money.

Speaking at City Forum yesterday, Starry Lee Wai-king, vice chairwoman of the Democratic Alliance for the Betterment and Progress of Hong Kong, said the KMB proposal is unacceptable.

Lee said the firm did not speak of such a fund when it earned hundreds of millions of dollars last year, only raising the issue now when it claims to be facing a possible deficit.

"Having a franchise does not guarantee you will earn money. Every company or business has to face challenges," said Lee, who was supported by independent pan-democrat Andrew Cheng Kar-foo, chairman of the Legislative Council's transport panel.

"No one will object to a stabilizing system, but you cannot expect to share your gains among shareholders, and then call on the government when you suffer losses," Cheng said.

He added the firm should consider ways to increase income and cut costs.

Richard Tsoi Yiu-cheong, convener of the Coalition to Monitor Public Transport and Utilities, said KMB neglected to mention the billions of dollars it earned from the property development of its Lai Chi Kok site.

"Why didn't the shareholders put money into a stabilizing fund first?" Tsoi said, adding the company hopes to face less criticism when it seeks a fare rise in the future.

TAC discusses new franchises for three bus companies and progress of South Island Line (East)
Government Press Release Excerpt
Tuesday, July 26, 2011

The Transport Advisory Committee (TAC) discussed today (July 26) the Government's plan to start negotiation with New World First Bus Services Limited (NWFB), Long Win Bus Company Limited (LW) and Citybus Limited (Citybus) in respect of its franchise for the Airport and North Lantau bus network (Franchise 2) in the fourth quarter of this year for renewing their franchises, which are due to expire in 2013.

TAC Chairman, Mr Rimsky Yuen, said that the TAC was pleased to note that NWFB, LW and Citybus (Franchise 2) had been providing proper and efficient bus services, and demonstrated their willingness to invest for further improvements.

"Members noted that the three franchised bus companies had indicated an interest to renew their franchises for another 10 years. The independent opinion surveys commissioned by the Transport Department (TD) on passengers' feedback showed that over 85 per cent of the respondents were satisfied with the overall quality of services provided by the three franchised bus companies," Mr Yuen said.

"Members exchanged views on the requirements of the new franchises of the three bus companies and noted that further to the consultation with the Transport Panel of the Legislative Council on July 11, the Government is inviting views from the public and the Traffic and Transport Committees of the 18 District Councils on the requirements of the new franchises until September 30," said Mr Yuen.

Members were also briefed on the overall performance of franchised bus operation in 2010 and noted that performance was generally satisfactory.

Members noted that as a result of the concerted efforts of various parties, Hong Kong's traffic fatalities were down to 117 in 2010, which was the lowest level since 1955. Members also noted a significant increase in the number of arrest cases and traffic accidents involving drug driving in 2010.

"Although the absolute number of traffic accidents involving drug driving remains small, the increasing trend and the potential road safety hazards deserve greater attention. We are pleased to know that the Government has introduced legislative proposals to implement a package of measures to combat drug driving vigorously. We hope that the measures can be implemented as soon as possible," said Mr Yuen.

Source : http://www.flickr.com/photos/lwhs/with/5987847616/

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By FU 6538 from a Hong Kong bus forum :

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Second wind for electric bus trials
The Standard
Monday, September 05, 2011

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We're always on board when it comes to helping make Hong Kong greener, but KMB plans to test a BYD electric bus seem recycled.

The company was supposed to run road tests last year for the super-capacitor gBus, used in Shanghai since 2006. But, apparently, nothing has come out of it.

Now Financial Secretary John Tsang Chun-wah, on his blog, said BYD will lease an electric bus to KMB for trial runs. Like the gBus trials, the new tests will take six months.

By TSANG from a Hong Kong bus forum :

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Hello everybody. I am from New York City and I am going to be studying public transit in a variety of countries next year on a academic fellowship. One of them is Hong Kong. I was wondering if I could talk to any one of you and also count on meeting you when I am there next year. Thank you.

You could also email me at al3@williams.edu or mulnella@yahoo.com.

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Five teens held for bus blazes after net boasts
The Standard
Thursday, September 15, 2011

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Five teenagers were arrested last night in connection with the torching of three double-decker buses in Tsz Wan Shan.

The suspects, aged 13 and 14, were detained in raids at Wong Tai Sin and Tseung Kwan O.

Police were unable to confirm whether one of those arrested, a girl, is responsible for internet postings claiming responsibility for Tuesday's attacks.

Netizens sent pictures of the girl and an alleged accomplice to police.

One cited those living near the bus station as saying a group of youngsters had been playing with fire. But they did not know if it was the same group who had set the buses ablaze.

The girl, whose Facebook username is "Sze Tse" - later changed to "Carol Tse" - posted a picture of the burning KMB vehicles at the outdoor bus station on her Facebook page.

She said in comments below the posted picture - which received over 20 "likes" from her Facebook friends - that she took the picture around 4am. But she did not hint at a motive.

The girl also mentioned another person, whose Facebook username is "Hinhin Lau." The boy left a few comments claiming he had used alcohol to fuel the fire.

Firefighters said they found the residue of a flammable liquid in front of a burned-out bus.

A few users of the social network site said those who set the fire should have burned a nearby secondary school so they would not have to attend.

They were believed to be referring to Tak Oi Secondary School.

The Facebook post was hit upon by netizens and was quickly circulated on another popular internet forum.

Pictures of the teenagers supposedly behind the arson attacks and of the schools they attended were also posted on this forum.

More than 300 netizens commented on the topic within two hours of it being opened.

Also posted was what was claimed to be a copy of an e-mail sent to police with information concerning the teenagers who have claimed responsibility in cyberspace.

The attacks left one KMB double- decker bus burned down to its frame, with two others severely damaged and the station itself virtually destroyed.

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Hello i am a bus enthuiasts in England (Manchester) im mad about buses and have since i was about 4 years old, i also collect anything to do with buses from models to photos to stops etc. I would love to go to Hong Kong one day bus spotting and i have a few models of Hong Kong Buses and many more to collect.
I would like to talk to other bus enthuiasts in Hong Kong about buses and also swap UK Bus items for Hong Kong bus items so get in touch
Many thanks fello bus spotters
Mark (email-cadmark@hotmail.com)

Source : http://photobucket.com/nickk_hkgbuses

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By KR 3941．KG 4055 from a Hong Kong bus forum :

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By ROSE from a Hong Kong bus forum :

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Electric buses one step closer
Updated: 2011-10-28 07:58
China Daily

Trial runs of electric buses will be accelerated in the coming years as about one-third of Hong Kong's franchised bus fleet will be phased out by 2015.

Edward Yau Tang-wah, secretary for the environment, said on Thursday Hong Kong should seize this opportunity to push forward the operation of electric buses and promote their deployment in the long run.

An electric bus costs much less than a bus fueled by diesel or petroleum, the price of which has been soaring amid a worldwide shortage, while, on the other hand, its use would very much improve the environment.

The government has come under pressure from local environmental groups to reduce worsening air pollution. Yau pointed out that, in heavily-populated areas like Mong Kok and Causeway Bay, more than 40 percent of the air pollution comes from buses.

According to Eric Cheng Ka-wai, a professor at the Department of Electrical Engineering of Polytechnic University, electric-charging fees are 70 percent less than those of petroleum replenishing costs. Besides, electric buses have proved to be more efficient than conventional buses, with 90 percent of the energy used, while conventional vehicles use only some 20 percent.

Chief Executive Donald Tsang Yam-kuen said in his recent Policy Address that HK$180 million would be spent on acquiring 36 electric buses for four franchised bus companies, including Kowloon Motor Bus.

All the electric buses are single-decker vehicles, while most of the city's buses are double-deckers.

While the deployment of electric buses requires such supporting facilities as special chargers on the routes, the government is leaving it to the franchised bus companies to invest in research and development and the facilities required.

A fast-charger, for instance, may cost between HK$100,000 and HK$300,000, Cheng said.

Cheng also cited the problems that may arise when electric buses take passengers. If there is a traffic jam, these buses could use up more energy than usual.

In summer, when air-conditioning could use up to 40 percent of the electricity, it could lead to the buses being overheated.

Although solar energy can be considered as a substitute, its cost would be much higher than that of electricity.

Nevertheless, Cheng agreed that the government should speed up the promotion and adoption of electric vehicles as oil reserves dwindle.

Single deckers?? Nooo!!!

Single deckers?? Nooo!!!

The electric bus trial was on the news a few days ago, and the feedback hasn't been very good. The fuel cells take up a lot of room inside the compartment so the passenger capacity is relatively small.

These are some new single deckers out on the streets lately :

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By 9050_1363 from a Hong Kong bus forum.

LCQ18: Pilot Green Transport Fund
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Government Press Release

Following is a question by the Hon Kam Nai-wai and a written reply by the Secretary for the Environment, Mr Edward Yau, at the Legislative Council meeting today (November 2):

Question:

The Financial Secretary proposed in the 2010-2011 Budget that a $300 million Pilot Green Transport Fund (the Fund) be set up to encourage the transport sector to introduce green and innovative transport technologies, with a view to improving air quality. The Environmental Protection Department (EPD) announced last month that the first batch of 13 applications under the Fund had been approved, which covered the trial of 16 electric buses and nine electric goods vehicles with a total subsidy of about $50 million. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:

(a) whether the authorities have, when putting forward the proposal for the Fund, set different indicators such as the number of applications submitted, the number of applications approved, or air quality data, etc. for monitoring and assessing the operation and effectiveness of the Fund; if they have, of the details; if not, the reasons for that; and of the improvement measures to be adopted by the authorities when the Fund receives lukewarm response and fails to yield satisfactory results;

(b) given that it has been reported that as at March this year, two applications which involved the trial of electric motorcycles had been rejected on the ground that motorcycles did not satisfy the definition of "public transport", how the decision on the scope of the Fund had been made by the authorities in the first place; whether they intend to examine extending the scope of the Fund (such as covering trial projects which do not meet the definition of "public transport" and those on "electric commercial vehicle"); if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that;

(c) given that it has been reported that six applications submitted by the member companies of one particular bus group were approved for subsidy under the Fund, involving a total of 12 electric buses and a grant of about $30 million, and that some members of the Steering Committee of the Fund who participated in the vetting and approval of the applications pointed out that the Steering Committee might not have carefully scrutinised the background of the applicants and as a result, the subsidies might be granted predominantly to one particular operator, whether the authorities have looked into the vetting and approval process to see if approval was granted in a rash and careless manner, and whether there are mechanisms or guidelines in place to prevent subsidies under the Fund from being granted predominantly to one particular operator; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that;

(d) given that the Chief Executive has put forth in his policy addresses for 2010-2011 and 2011-2012 respectively the proposal to fund the full cost of procuring six hybrid buses for use by the franchised bus companies along busy corridors in Hong Kong on a trial basis, as well as the proposal to earmark $180 million for franchised bus companies to purchase 36 electric buses for trial runs on a number of routes to assess their performance in different conditions, whether the authorities have considered extending the scope of the Fund to cover these proposals; if not, of the reasons for that; and the latest progress of the trial of the six hybrid buses; and

(e) whether the authorities know how the current price of an environment-friendly bus (including hybrid, electric and supercapacitor double/single-decker buses) compares to that of an ordinary diesel bus (including double/single-decker buses which meet the European Union's emission standards); and the existing number of buses (including hybrid, electric and supercapacitor buses) in each franchised bus company's vehicle fleet, broken down by the emission standards which the buses meet?

Reply:

President,

(a) The purpose of the Pilot Green Transport Fund (the Fund) is to encourage the transport sector to test out green and innovative transport technologies by way of subsidy so as to improve roadside air quality and avert global climate change. After consulting the Legislative Council, the relevant stakeholders and the Steering Committee of the Fund, we have drawn up details of the subsidy arrangements under the Fund. We anticipate that the Fund would test out various green transport technologies through subsidising different transport trades in the coming two to three years, thereby promoting wider use of more environment-friendly and less polluting green transport technologies in the trades.

Since the set up of the Fund on March 30, 2011, we have been actively introducing the Fund to the green and innovative transport product suppliers and the transport trades, and also encouraging them to make use of the subsidy under the Fund so that more green transport products can be used and tested in Hong Kong. The Fund has now successfully attracted many overseas green and innovative transport product suppliers, particularly electric vehicle suppliers, to promote their products in Hong Kong. In just half a year after its set up, the Fund has received enthusiastic responses with 30 applications received, which shows that the suppliers and transport trades are eager to make good use of the Fund to promote green transport. Among the 30 applications received, two-thirds are on electric vehicles while others are on hybrid vehicles and after-treatment emission reduction devices. The total subsidy for these applications amounts to about $90 million or about 30% of the total allocation for the Fund. We will continue to actively encourage the transport sector to make use of the subsidy under the Fund to test out green and innovative transport technologies, as well as to encourage innovative transport product suppliers to introduce their products to the local market so as to promote green transport.

(b) To deliver the objective of improving the air quality effectively, the subsidy targets of the Fund are the public transport and goods vehicles, which have greater impact on our roadside air quality, as well as ferries. As the two applications quoted by the Hon Kam Nai-wai involve electric motorcycles, which are not public transport, they are not eligible for the application.

(c) In the first batch of approved applications, there are six applications from different companies from the same parent group. According to the Transport Department's advice, these six companies are operating as independent business entities. As such, they meet the eligibility criteria for application under the rules of the Fund.

(d) As franchised buses are the major source of roadside air pollution on busy corridors, the Government proposes to fund the full cost of procuring hybrid buses and electric buses for trial by the franchised bus companies. Through the trials, we will be able to understand the performance of these buses and collect operational data, henceforth paving the way for promoting the franchised bus companies to use more environment-friendly buses in future. As for non-franchised bus companies, they are eligible for subsidy under the Pilot Green Transport Fund to test green transport technologies. This two-pronged strategy can effectively promote both franchised and non-franchised bus companies to adopt green transport technologies in response to the public aspiration for better roadside air quality.

(e) The number of buses owned by the franchised bus companies as at end of August 2011, classified by emission standards, is shown at the Annex.

Currently, the respective costs of a new double-deck diesel bus and a new single-deck diesel bus are in the region of $3 million and $2 million. However, the costs quoted above would be affected by market conditions such as foreign exchange rates, the number of buses purchased, etc., and are therefore subject to changes.

As hybrid buses and electric buses are still new transport products, their prices are higher than those of the conventional diesel buses. As the franchised bus companies do not have these kinds of buses in their fleets, and the procurement for the relevant trial programmes has yet to be completed or started, we do not have the exact prices of these buses at this moment. Nevertheless, according to preliminary information provided by bus suppliers and franchised bus companies, the price of a double-deck hybrid bus is about $5.5 million and that of a single-deck electric bus, including relevant charging facilities, is about $5 million. We do not have the pricing information for single-deck hybrid buses and double-deck electric buses.

Annex : http://gia.info.gov.hk/general/201111/02/P201111020178_0178_86044.pdf

By GC2805 from a Hong Kong bus forum :

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2011-10-31
KMB provides full air-conditioned bus service on Route 66
Press Release

To provide a more comfortable bus service for passengers in Tuen Mun District, with effect from Monday, 7 November 2011, Route 66 (Tai Hing ←→ Sham Shui Po[Yen Chow Street]) will be converted into a full air-conditioned service. The fare of Route 66 is $11.10.


By windbells from a Hong Kong bus forum :

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By 2800 from a Hong Kong bus forum :

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By GKey. from a Hong Kong bus forum :

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I loved riding these buses in Hong Kong. They were my very cheap "tour buses."

By ROSE from a Hong Kong bus forum :

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LCQ9: Public transport services between Tuen Mun and the Airport
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Government Press Release

Following is a question by the Hon Cheung Hok-ming and a written reply by the Secretary for Transport and Housing, Ms Eva Cheng, in the Legislative Council today (November 2):

Question:

Some Tuen Mun residents have reflected that quite a number of residents in the district work at the Hong Kong International Airport (the Airport) due to insufficient employment opportunities in Tuen Mun; yet, at present only a few trips are made in the morning and afternoon daily by the buses of route E33P running between Siu Hong Railway Station in Tuen Mun and the Airport, and the service can hardly meet the demand during peak commuting hours. They have also indicated that as the first bus of this route from the Airport departs after 5pm, people who get off work earlier than that in the afternoon have to take buses of other routes which charge higher fares. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:

(a) whether it knows the percentage of the working population in Tuen Mun in the past three years who have to work across districts;

(b) in response to the situation that the workers engaged in many types of jobs at the Airport need to work shifts, whether the authorities will request the operator of the aforesaid bus route to arrange for the first bus to depart from the Airport earlier in the afternoon as warranted by the actual situation; and

(c) of the measures to improve the present public transport services between Tuen Mun (i.e. Butterfly Estate, Wu King Estate and Tuen Mun Ferry Pier) and the Airport?

Reply:

President,

(a) According to the result of the last Population By-census (Note) conducted by the Census and Statistics Department in 2006, the working population in Tuen Mun District with fixed place of work in Hong Kong was 212 978. Among them, 154 186 persons (i.e. 72%) worked outside Tuen Mun District.

(b) Currently, there are three franchised bus routes operating in Tuen Mun to and from Chek Lap Kok Airport. Route E33 (Tuen Mun Town Centre - Airport) provides all-day services, whereas the other two routes, E33P (Siu Hong Station - Airport) and A33 (Tuen Mun (Tuen Mun Station of West Rail) - Airport), run in peak hours. Supplementary to Route E33, Route E33P operates seven departures on weekday mornings (five trips on Sundays and public holidays) and three departures every afternoon between Siu Hong Station of West Rail and the Airport.

To enhance the service level, the concerned franchised bus company has planned to deploy one additional double-deck bus to serve Route E33P in the first quarter of 2012 and increase the frequency of the route, including arranging an extra and early departure from the Airport to Tuen Mun during peak hours in the afternoon. The franchised bus company will consult the concerned stakeholders and the locals on the proposed increase in frequency.

(c) At present, residents in the vicinity of Butterfly Estate, Wu King Estate and Tuen Mun Ferry Pier can take the Light Rail to Tuen Mun Town Centre where they can interchange with Route E33 to go to the Airport. An alternative for them during peak hours is taking the Airport-bound Route E33P at the nearby en-route stop on Wu Shan Road. Given that Tuen Mun Town Centre is the major transport interchange for the Light Rail and various franchised bus routes, the current arrangement can optimise the use of the existing resources of franchised buses in providing residents of various areas in Tuen Mun with the franchised bus services that meet their demand for journeys to and from the Airport. In the first quarter of 2012 when one more double-deck bus runs on Route E33P, the level of franchised bus services between Tuen Mun and the Airport will be further enhanced.

The Transport Department will continue to monitor the transport demand of the residents in Tuen Mun for going to and from the Airport, and will enhance the service of relevant franchised bus routes when necessary.

(Note) The Census and Statistics Department conducts a population census once every ten years, and a by-census in the middle of the intercensal period. The last population by-census was conducted in 2006. As regards the 2011 Population Census, the results will be available by phases as from 2012.

By derekman6c19 from a Hong Kong bus forum :

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By 2800 from a Hong Kong bus forum :

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By KL 5210 from a Hong Kong bus forum :

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By KL 5210 from a Hong Kong bus forum :

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By JF8241 from a Hong Kong bus forum :

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By MF2648_AVBW8 from a Hong Kong bus forum :

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LCQ9: Emission reduction measures of franchised buses
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
Government Press Release

Following is a question by the Hon Jeffrey Lam Kin-fung and a written reply by the Secretary for the Environment, Mr Edward Yau, in the Legislative Council today (December 14):

Question:

In his 2010-2011 Policy Address, the Chief Executive proposed to retrofit the Euro II and Euro III buses of franchised bus companies with catalytic reduction devices to meet Euro IV nitrogen oxide emission standards, and recommended the Government to fund the full cost of procuring six hybrid buses for use by franchised bus companies along the busy corridors in Hong Kong to test their operational efficiency. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:

(a) whether it knows the respective numbers of Euro II and Euro III buses in the existing vehicle fleets of franchised bus companies in Hong Kong, and the number of buses already retrofitted with catalytic reduction devices;

(b) whether it has assessed the costs of retrofitting all the Euro II and Euro III buses currently in use with catalytic reduction devices; if it has, of the details, and the time required to complete retrofitting all such buses; if not, the reasons for that; and

(c) whether it knows the latest progress of the tests on hybrid buses; whether it has assessed when the tests will be completed; if it has, of the details; if not, the reasons for that?

Reply:

President,

Nitrogen oxides (NOx) emitted by franchised buses are one of the main reasons causing the exceedance of the Air Pollution Index at roadside. At present, over 60% of franchised buses are Euro II and Euro III vehicles which will only be completely replaced by 2019 and 2026 respectively. Since they are still in operation on the roads, if their emissions could be reduced as soon as possible, it would help improve the roadside air quality.

In some places in Europe, such as London and Belgium, they have retrofitted some of their buses with selective catalytic reduction (SCR) devices which reduce NOx emissions by about 60%. However, most public buses in these European cities are single-deckers whilst the majority of the franchised buses in Hong Kong are double-deckers. Besides, the high operation frequency and hilly terrains in Hong Kong all cause a relative increase in the engine load of local buses. Air conditioning is also required during hot summer time. Therefore, we have to conduct a trial to retrofit Euro II and Euro III buses with SCR devices to assess the technical feasibility and its effectiveness in emission reduction. If the Euro II and Euro III buses which were already equipped with diesel particulate filters (DPF) are retrofitted with SCR devices, their emission performance could be upgraded to Euro IV or Euro V level.

Our response to the Hon Jeffrey Lam Kin-fung's questions is as follows:

(a) and (b) As at late September 2011, the franchised bus companies owned a total of 3 906 Euro II or Euro III buses. The respective number of these buses owned by the franchised bus companies is tabulated at the Annex.

We have retrofitted three buses (comprising two Euro II and one Euro III buses) with SCR devices for trial in September 2011. We are now retrofitting the other three buses (also comprising two Euro II and one Euro III buses) for trial, and we expect the retrofit to be completed in February 2012. We shall review the initial results after the first six months of the trial to ascertain as soon as possible the feasibility of retrofitting Euro II and Euro III buses with SCR devices on a large-scale and their effectiveness in reducing air pollutants. Subject to satisfactory trial results, the Government will fully subsidise the bus companies to retrofit Euro II and Euro III buses with SCR devices.

These six buses for trial involve three major bus models, representing about 1 800 Euro II and 450 Euro III buses. We have also started to look into the feasibility of retrofitting the other bus models with SCR devices with a view to launching a trial for these buses as soon as possible.

Given that some Euro II buses will retire in the next few years, we estimate that at the most about 3 700 Euro II and Euro III franchised buses would be retrofitted with SCR devices. Based on preliminary information provided by suppliers, the cost of large-scale retrofit of Euro II and Euro III franchised buses with SCR devices is estimated to be about $150,000 per bus. If all 3 700 buses were to be retrofitted with SCR devices, the total retrofit cost would be about $555 million.

The time required for retrofitting all suitable buses with SCR devices depends on the number of such buses and the actual timetable for retrofit to be drawn up by the bus companies. Nevertheless, we aim to roll out the large-scale retrofit as soon as possible once the success of the trial is confirmed.

(c) As for the hybrid bus trial, the franchised bus companies are procuring the buses. Allowing the time required for production and delivery, we expect that the hybrid bus trial in Hong Kong could commence in 2013 for a period of two years.

Annex : http://gia.info.gov.hk/general/201112/14/P201112140163_0163_87985.pdf

By GC2805 from a Hong Kong bus forum :

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By 2800 from a Hong Kong bus forum :

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LCQ13: Fine suspended particulates
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
Government Press Release

Following is a question by the Hon Audrey Eu and a written reply by the Secretary for the Environment, Mr Edward Yau, in the Legislative Council today (January 11):

Question:

The World Health Organisation (WHO) and many academic studies have pointed out that fine suspended particulates (i.e. particulates of a size smaller than an aerodynamic diameter of 2.5 microns) (PM2.5) have greater impact on the health of a person than respirable suspended particulates (i.e. particulates of a size smaller than an aerodynamic diameter of 10 microns). The existing Air Quality Objectives (AQOs) in Hong Kong has not included PM2.5 as a pollutant that requires to be measured, and an indicator of the concentration of PM2.5 in the air has not been formulated. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:

(a) whether the Government has measured the concentration of PM2.5; if it has, of the details; whether this has been released to the public; if this has not been released, of the reasons for that; if it has not measured the concentration, of the reasons for that;

(b) whether the Government has any plan to formulate an indicator of the concentration of PM2.5; if it has, of the details; if not, the reasons for that; and

(c) when the Government will update the AQOs which have been in use for nearly 25 years?

Reply:

President,

(a) To understand the situation of fine suspended particulates (PM2.5) in Hong Kong, the Environmental Protection Department (EPD) has started monitoring the pollutant in 1999 at three of the general air monitoring stations at Tap Mun, Tung Chung and Tsuen Wan together with the Central roadside station. The Yuen Long general station was later added in 2005. We have also released the relevant monitoring results to external parties. In addition, by the end of last year, we have completed the installation of PM2.5 samplers in all 14 monitoring stations in Hong Kong. We are now testing the samplers and expect that they will be in full operation in the first quarter of this year.

(b) The Government has proposed in the public consultation document on Air Quality Objectives Review to introduce a set of new objectives for PM2.5. After taken into consideration the WHO guidelines and the unique situation of Hong Kong under which particulates concentrations are strongly influenced by regional factors, we propose that Hong Kong should, as a start, adopt WHO's Interim Target-1 for PM2.5 annual and 24-hour standards, i.e. 35 ug/m³ and 75 ug/m³ respectively, as the PM2.5 objectives.

(c) Updating of AQOs is not so much about changing the limit values as implementing a series of related improvement measures so as to attain the ultimate goal of air quality improvement. The Government is endeavoured to implement air quality improvement measures that are generally supported by the community, including tightening from 2015 onwards the emission caps on the power sector by 34% to 50% as compared to those for 2010; subsidising the early replacement of Euro II diesel commercial vehicles; carrying out with franchised bus companies a trial of retrofitting on Euro II and III buses with Selective Catalytic Reduction devices; funding franchised bus companies to try out hybrid buses and electric buses; setting up a $300 million pilot Green Transport Fund; introducing legislation to promote energy efficiency for electrical appliances and buildings; setting up the Kai Tak district cooling system, etc. On the other hand, some improvement measures, such as changing the fuel mix for power generation, rationalisation of bus routes, etc., which involve complex issues and have far-reaching implications, would require detailed study and comprehensive planning. The Government is now working on the final proposal to update the AQOs for submission to the Legislative Council for deliberation as soon as possible.

By A~24.350~ from a Hong Kong bus forum :

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Fuel bills, fares to rise on cleaner air
The Standard
Thursday, January 19, 2012

Electricity and transport costs will rise by up to 20percent when the new air-quality standards come into force in 2014, the government said.

Secretary for the Environment Edward Yau Tang-wah made the warning a day after announcing plans to raise the Air Quality Objectives to World Health Organization standards.

Yau said the new objectives will lead to a reduction in air pollutants but may also result in a 15 to 20percent rise in transport costs and a 20percent jump in electricity bills, and the public will have to share the financial burden.

The Executive Council on Tuesday gave the green light to tougher clean-air targets for the first time in 25 years, pending approval from the Legislative Council.

About half of the objectives will adopt stricter air-quality guidelines published by the WHO in 2005.

Those for sulfur dioxide, particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5) and ozone will be set to targets under WHO guidelines.

A total of 22 mitigating measures, including the phasing out of heavily polluting vehicles and the increased usage of natural gas, will be implemented to achieve the new standards.

Yau also welcomed an Airport Authority statement that it will use the updated guidelines when it carries out the environmental impact assessment on the proposed third runway at Chek Lap Kok.

The two electricity companies agreed that government efforts to cut pollution will inevitably lead to higher bills.

CLP Power said yesterday the new objectives, coupled with soaring natural gas prices, will put pressure on it to raise electricity charges.

A spokesman for Hongkong Electric said it will need to install new gas turbines to meet the new standards.

Under the new plan, bus companies have to replace old vehicles with environmentally friendly fleets.

Kowloon Motor Bus, New World First Bus and Citybus said they have already started introducing such vehicles.

But at this early stage they do not know by how much fares will have to rise when the air- quality standards are raised.

By HT9346xLM9262 from a Hong Kong bus forum :

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[Hong Kong Bus Ride] 九巴 KC8419 @ 64K 往 大埔墟鐵路站 [全程行車影片]

9dxssWOww28

At 24:40, you'll get a whistling rendition of 'We wish you a Merry Christmas' as well.

By KV6610@276P from a Hong Kong bus forum :

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Bus drivers warn of strike in push for 8pc
The Standard
Wednesday, January 04, 2012

Bus drivers want an 8 percent pay rise and more benefits this year, warning of strike action if they don't get them.

A union at five franchised bus firms also called for HK$40 more per day for drivers on a daily rate.

A Motor Transport Workers General Union spokesman said drivers received pay hikes of only 4percent last year - with inflation running at 5percent.

"The living standard of our bus drivers is sliding down. It is worrying to know the inflation rate will remain high this year," Chung Kin-wah said.

"Spending on electricity, housing, food and other expenses cause a great burden to many of our members."

The union also wants other benefits, including the issue of more staff family cards to contract workers, and double pay for working on public holidays.

Chung said the demands are reasonable enough for bus companies to afford them.

NWS Holdings, the parent of New World Bus and Citybus, posted net earnings of HK$4.62 billion for the fiscal year ended June 30.

Meanwhile, Kowloon Motor Bus - the territory's largest bus operator - saw a substantial increase in passengers last year over 2010, the union said, adding the company also won approval to raise fares by 3.6percent.

"Bus companies should bear their social responsibility and share their appreciable profit with their staff to boost their working initiatives. A better service is thus guaranteed," Chung said.

The union includes members from KMB, Long Win Bus, New World Bus, Citybus and New Lantao Bus.

A spokesman for New World and Citybus said they will be negotiating with staff representatives in April.

The other bus firms said they have not officially received the demands.

"Causing inconvenience to our passengers is the last thing we would like to see, but we cannot rule out taking further action - including strike action - if the bus companies are reluctant to talk to us," Chung said.

By Thomas from a Hong Kong bus forum :

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LCQ4: Accidents inside bus compartments
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
Government Press Release

Following is a question by the Hon Ip Wai-ming and a written reply by the Secretary for Transport and Housing, Ms Eva Cheng, at the Legislative Council meeting today (February 1):

Question:

In recent years, quite a number of accidents occurred inside the compartments of public buses. Recently, a passenger even died from falling down the stairs from the upper deck to the lower deck of a bus. Some passengers who had sustained injuries from falling down bus stairs sought my assistance, pointing out that they had difficulty in claiming compensation from the bus companies involved after the accidents. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:

(a) whether it knows the numbers of accidents occurred inside the compartments of buses of various franchised bus companies (on-board accidents) in the past five years; among them, the numbers of those accidents involving bus passengers who tripped and fell while ascending or descending bus stairs; the casualties and the types of design of the bus stairs involved in such accidents;

(b) whether it knows the number of injured passengers in the on-board accidents in (a) who have claimed compensation from the franchised bus companies involved, and among them, the number of those who have received compensation and the total amount of compensation;

(c) given that some injured passengers have relayed to me that, at present, when injured passengers claim compensation from the franchised bus companies, the burden of proof very often falls on them, and they have to prove that the bus companies concerned should be held responsible for negligence in the accident cases, but such arrangement very often impedes them from striving for reasonable compensation from the bus companies, whether the authorities have put in place any measure to assist injured passengers in claiming compensation from the bus companies or whether there is any government department to provide assistance to them in this regard; whether the authorities will request the franchised bus companies to co-operate by handing over to the injured passengers the records and data of the bus journeys during which the accidents occurred to facilitate the passengers to provide evidence; and

(d) how the authorities will instruct the various franchised bus companies to prevent on-board accidents; whether it knows the efforts made by the bus companies in the past five years to improve the safety of bus compartments and bus stairs and to reduce on-board accidents, as well as the amount of money involved and the effectiveness of such efforts?

Reply:

President,

(a) The number of non-collision franchised bus accidents involving passengers injured inside bus compartments in the past five years, the number of such accidents involving passengers injured on the staircase, and the types of staircase involved are tabulated in Annex 1 (http://gia.info.gov.hk/general/201202/01/P201202010230_0230_89659.pdf).

(b) & (c) According to the information provided by the franchised bus companies, when passengers or other road users injured in a franchised bus accident claim compensation, the franchised bus company concerned or its insurer will refer the case to a loss adjuster firm for investigation based on evidence provided by both parties. The loss adjuster firm will then make assessment, making reference to the relevant ordinances and court cases. Taking into account the investigation results and assessment made by the loss adjuster firm and the relevant ordinances, the franchised bus company concerned or its insurer will decide on whether compensation is made to the claimant and the amount of compensation involved. Claimants who are not satisfied with the compensation may negotiate direct with the franchised bus company concerned or its insurer, or lodge a claim with the Court. Generally speaking, compensation claims lodged by injured passengers or other road users against franchised bus companies are civil claims in which the burden of proof is usually on the claimant, and the defendant may make his or her defence.

The total number of all third party claims (including cases involving accidents that took place inside and outside franchised bus compartments) handled by the franchised bus companies in each of the past five years is tabulated in Annex 2 (http://gia.info.gov.hk/general/201202/01/P201202010230_0230_89660.pdf). The franchised bus companies are unable to provide detailed breakdown of the number of compensation claim cases involving accidents that took place inside franchised bus compartments.

(d) The Government and franchised bus companies attach great importance to passenger safety. The Transport Department and the franchised bus companies review and examine from time to time the design and facilities of franchised buses, so as to keep pace with times by making improvements to passenger safety and comfort level.

Currently, non-slippery bus floor material is installed inside franchised buses. There is also high contrast step-edge to alert passengers to mind their steps. To minimise the incidents in which passengers fall on board due to loss of balance, all major franchised bus companies have included continuous railing that guides passengers to the seats as one of the specifications for purchasing buses since late 2010. This has therefore become a standard feature on new buses. This new design allows passengers to hold on to the handrail as they move with steady steps towards the seats or other parts of the bus. To further enhance the safety of passengers when ascending or descending the stairs, extra handrails have been installed for straight staircases by all franchised bus companies.

To facilitate needy passengers (including the elderly, pregnant women, passengers carrying babies and the disabled), at least four priority seats are designated near the exit door in the lower deck of every double-deck bus. Stickers are put up on nearby windows to remind passengers to offer these seats to the needy. The franchised bus companies are also making improvements to the design of the priority seats to make them more visible. The Kowloon Motor Bus Company (1933) Limited (KMB) and Long Win Bus Company Limited (LW) have started a renovation programme by installing eye-catching bright colour headrest on the priority seats of some of their double-deck buses since June 2011 for easy recognition by passengers. Subject to the feedback of passengers, KMB and LW will extend their renovation programme to their whole bus fleets gradually. In parallel, Citybus Limited, New World First Bus Services Limited and New Lantao Bus Company (1973) Limited are considering similar renovation programmes to replace the cushions of their priority seats with different colours.

Apart from improving the design of bus compartments, the franchised bus companies broadcast messages on bus travel safety via the bus stop announcement system from time to time. Such messages include "Please hold the handrail", "For your safety, please do not stand on the upper deck or the stairway", "Please take care of the children and the elderly, and offer your seats to those in need" and "Please stand behind the yellow line". In addition, signs and posters are put up inside bus compartments, and Announcements in the Public Interest are broadcast on board to remind passengers of safety when travelling on buses.

The above-mentioned improvements to the design of bus compartments and efforts of reminding passengers of safety during their bus rides are long-term and persistent goals pursued by the franchised bus companies for providing passengers with a safe and comfortable travelling environment. Passengers in general welcome these enhanced design and improvement measures. The franchised bus companies are unable to provide a breakdown of the expenditure for such design and improvements as they are usually implemented together with the upgrading of other facilities in the bus compartment.

By Alex01 from a Hong Kong bus forum :

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LCQ12: Public transport concessions scheme for the elderly and persons with disabilities
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
Government Press Release

Following is a question by the Hon Frederick Fung and a written reply by the Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Mr Matthew Cheung Kin-chung, in the Legislative Council today (February 15):

Question :

In his 2011-2012 Policy Address, the Chief Executive (CE) proposed public transport fare concessions (fare concessions) for the elderly and eligible persons with disabilities (PWDs) to travel by MTR trains, franchised buses and ferries at a concessionary fare of $2 per trip. At the Question and Answer Session of this Council held last month, CE indicated that he would seek to implement the fare concessions scheme for the elderly before the change of the Government. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:

(a) of the details of the necessary procedures and preparatory work, etc from putting forward to implementing the fare concessions proposal; of the latest progress, including discussions with the public transport operators (operators) and difficulties encountered in tackling technical problems and problems in administrative procedures, etc (eg sharing of administrative costs, etc); whether the authorities have requested the operators to shoulder their social responsibilities and bear more of the additional expenditures arising from the proposal; and

(b) given that after the announcement of the fare concessions proposal, different views (including lowering the minimum age limit for elderly recipients and extending the concessions to all public transport to encourage the elderly and PWDs to go out for activities) have been expressed in the community, whether the authorities have assessed the feasibility of these views; if they have not, of the reasons; whether they have specifically contacted other operators (eg green minibus operators, etc); whether the authorities have planned to extend the concessions to cover the entire public transport system at the next stage?

Reply:

President,

In his Policy Address last year, the Chief Executive proposed a public transport concessions scheme for the elderly and persons with disabilities (the Scheme) to enable all elderly people aged 65 or above and eligible persons with disabilities to travel on the general Mass Transit Railway (MTR) lines, franchised buses and ferries anytime at a concessionary fare of $2 a trip. The Scheme aims to encourage the elderly and eligible persons with disabilities to participate in more community activities, thereby enriching social capital and developing a spirit of care and inclusiveness. The basic principle of the Scheme is that on the premise of maintaining existing fare concessions by the public transport operators concerned, the Government will provide additional resources for offering a concessionary fare of $2 per trip. The Administration would reimburse the public transport operators the revenue forgone arising from the implementation of Scheme.

My reply to the Hon Frederick Fung's question is as follows:

(a) Apart from negotiating with the MTR Corporation Limited, five franchised bus companies and numerous ferry service operators (the public transport operators) on the detailed implementation and financial arrangement of the Scheme, we need the full support of the public transport operators and the Octopus Cards Limited (OCL) in respect of hardware and software facilities. Considerable time will be required for modifying, upgrading and testing the Octopus system of the respective public transport operator with a view to ensuring stability, reliability and accuracy. Moreover, the Government needs to make amendments to the Disability Discrimination Ordinance (DDO), and seek the Legislative Council Finance Committee's funding approval, etc. Since the Scheme involves a significant amount of public resources and is of a recurrent nature, we must ensure the reliability of the operating mechanism and every detail of the Scheme.

The Labour and Welfare Bureau, Transport and Housing Bureau as well as Transport Department have been pressing ahead full steam with various preparatory work. The negotiation with the public transport operators and the OCL is in full swing. We have also started the preparatory work for amending the DDO. Our aim is to finalise all detailed arrangements in the first half of this year and launch the Scheme as soon as possible in the second half of the year, upon completion of the upgrading and testing of the systems of the public transport operators.

(b) MTR and the majority of franchised bus companies are currently offering elderly concessionary fare of $2 on designated days for elderly people aged 65 or above. On this basis, the Government proposes to extend the elderly concessionary fare of $2 to other days. We have no plan to extend the Scheme to other age groups.

Much complicated and time-consuming preparatory work has to be done before the Scheme can be launched with MTR, franchised buses and ferries. To enable the elderly and eligible persons with disabilities to enjoy the concessionary fares as soon as possible, we will launch the Scheme first on the three major modes of public transport, viz MTR, franchised buses and ferries. Following the full implementation of the Scheme for a period of time, we will review the feasibility of extending its scope. In fact, MTR, franchised buses and ferries account for about 70% of our average daily public transport patronage.

By KT4187 from a Hong Kong discussion forum :

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By HE3543 from a Hong Kong bus forum :

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By error from a Hong Kong bus forum :

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KMB is rolling along with much cleaner story
The Standard
Wednesday, February 22, 2012

How the Kowloon Motor Bus fleet has cut pollution in the past two decades has been revealed by its principal engineer, Kane Shum Yuet-hung.

Particulate emissions are down by 92percent, he says, and nitrogen oxide by 57.2percent. This has been achieved by upgrading engines and using less harmful diesel and emission-reduction devices.

Of 3,891 buses in the current fleet, 417 are either Euro IV or V buses using the latest engines.

"We still have around 980 Euro I buses," he added. "But they will be retired by early 2015 while 1,500 Euro II buses are scheduled to complete their service starting in 2014."

Such buses are not suitable for areas such as Causeway Bay, Mong Kok and Tsim Sha Tsui.

Meanwhile, the company is pushing ahead with Euro V diesel, first used in 2008 and which is claimed to contain only 0.001 percent of sulfur. So the punlic is less likely to suffer with fumes.

On buses still using Euro II and III engines, diesel particulate filters may reduce emissions by more than 80percent. The upgraded engines can meet exhaust emission equivalent to a Euro V standard.

The filters mean "the environmental performance can be improved immediately," Shum said.

^^

Are there any visual clues that air pollution in Hong Kong is decreasing: i.e. less smog days, or less dense smog?

^^

Are there any visual clues that air pollution in Hong Kong is decreasing: i.e. less smog days, or less dense smog?

Well, road-side pollution is not the major contributor to the overall smog problem. Most of the smog is caused by emissions from China.

By FD1179 from a Hong Kong bus forum :

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By K...KR4210 from a Hong Kong bus forum :

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By KM7241 from a Hong Kong bus forum :

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By PV8048 from a Hong Kong bus forum :

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By heihei107 from a Hong Kong bus forum :

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By EL6749 from a Hong Kong bus forum :

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By 戀の新幹線 from a Hong Kong bus forum :

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By NF9046 from a Hong Kong bus forum :

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I took these pictures the other day:

http://img21.imageshack.us/img21/9443/20120324122411.jpg

These look like they are one of the older buses but they are actually quite good. They are low floor with complete wheelchair access.

Here is another:
http://img109.imageshack.us/img109/2095/20120324122401.jpg

These look similar to buses in London.
http://img823.imageshack.us/img823/1483/20120326170346.jpg

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http://img708.imageshack.us/img708/5904/20120326170916.jpg
Didn't take more because I boarded this bus. This is one of the few models on HK island that do not have wheelchair access. They are slowly being replaced (is this true hkskyline?)

I'm not too sure what is Citybus' fleet replacement plan, but I believe the legal requirement is 16 years max for buses on regular scheduled service, although some exceptions can apply.

I'm not too sure what is Citybus' fleet replacement plan, but I believe the legal requirement is 16 years max for buses on regular scheduled service, although some exceptions can apply.

Then citybus needs to get rid of a large number of their buses soon. They already have some enviro500s and some other ones but now to come to think of it, isn't 16 too short? Won't even nwfb need replacements soon by that standard? And what of KMB?

Then citybus needs to get rid of a large number of their buses soon. They already have some enviro500s and some other ones but now to come to think of it, isn't 16 too short? Won't even nwfb need replacements soon by that standard? And what of KMB?

When NWFB took over CMB's routes, the same fear arose that their brand new fleet of buses at the time would expire around the same time, which should be in a couple of years. Both NWFB and Citybus have been renewing their fleet but probably because KMB operates much far routes so their revitalization is more obvious.

By HL8354 from a Hong Kong bus forum :

http://i748.photobucket.com/albums/xx129/HL8354/HOT%20DOG/_MG_9876.jpg

http://i748.photobucket.com/albums/xx129/HL8354/HOT%20DOG/_MG_9885.jpg

By KM7241 from a Hong Kong bus forum :

http://i1141.photobucket.com/albums/n592/NL273a/DC%20photos/BV2048.jpg

http://i1141.photobucket.com/albums/n592/NL273a/DC%20photos/BV2048-1.jpg

Interesting thread and pics.

Interesting thread and pics.

Many thanks to hkskyline who keeps it alive.

Most welcome. Here are some more of my "hot dog" bus collection :

http://www.globalphotos.org/hongkong/2012/0219/IMG_0488.jpg

http://www.globalphotos.org/hongkong/2012/0219/IMG_0519.jpg

http://www.globalphotos.org/hongkong/2012/0325/IMG_3423.jpg

http://www.globalphotos.org/hongkong/2012/0325/IMG_3429.jpg

http://www.globalphotos.org/hongkong/2012/0325/IMG_3431.jpg

http://www.globalphotos.org/hongkong/2012/0325/IMG_3440.jpg

http://www.globalphotos.org/hongkong/2012/0324/IMG_3406.jpg

http://www.globalphotos.org/hongkong/2012/0324/IMG_3412.jpg

http://www.globalphotos.org/hongkong/2012/0324/IMG_3418.jpg

http://www.globalphotos.org/hongkong/2012/0324/IMG_3419.jpg

More at : http://www.globalphotos.org/hk-hotdog16.htm

TAC discusses franchises of three bus companies and improvement of emergency crossings on major roads
Tuesday, March 27, 2012
Government Press Release

The Transport Advisory Committee (TAC) was briefed today (March 27) on the latest position of the Government's negotiations with New World First Bus Services Limited, Long Win Bus Company Limited and Citybus Limited in respect of its franchise for the Airport and North Lantau bus network on the proposed granting of new 10-year franchises upon the expiry of their current ones in 2013.

"The TAC noted that the Government, having regard to the views received during the public engagement process, had placed emphasis on fare concessions, enhancement in facilities and information for passengers, and environmental improvement measures in the negotiations with the three bus companies on the requirements of the new franchises," the TAC Chairman, Mr Rimsky Yuen, said.

"We understand that the Government is on the whole making good progress and will take into account the TAC's views in making a recommendation to the Chief Executive in Council for a decision in due course," Mr Yuen said.

Members were briefed on the Highways Department's plan to replace conventional tubular crash gates with "movable steel barriers" and "removable concrete barriers" at emergency crossings and contingency crossings in the central dividers of major roads.

"The TAC noted that the Highways Department's programme to replace conventional tubular crash gates with more robust barriers would enhance road safety by better preventing errant vehicles from straying onto the opposite traffic lanes during accidents," Mr Yuen said.

Members were also briefed on the latest progress of the Shatin to Central Link (SCL) project.

"Members noted that the SCL is a territory-wide strategic railway project which would link up with a number of existing and future railways and would bring railway services to new catchment areas including Hin Keng of Sha Tin and the Kai Tak and Ma Tau Wai areas of East Kowloon. It would also help redistribute passengers to different railway lines through convenient interchanges and relieve the current congested situations during peak hours on the East Rail Line, Kwun Tong Line and Tsuen Wan Line.

"Members were pleased to note that the detailed design of the SCL is now substantially completed, and that the Government had kicked off the funding application process with a view to starting the construction of the SCL in mid-2012," Mr Yuen said.

By HL8354 from a Hong Kong bus forum :

http://i748.photobucket.com/albums/xx129/HL8354/HOT%20DOG/_MG_0067.jpg

By 9723 from a Hong Kong bus forum :

http://i808.photobucket.com/albums/zz1/ivanshunde/DSC_5203.jpg

KMB signals higher fares as costs climb
The Standard
Wednesday, April 11, 2012

Kowloon Motor Bus is contemplating raising fares to meet rising operational costs.

But Susanne Ho Ka-lai, corporate communications chief, said KMB's first priority will be to reorganize its routes for greater passenger-cost efficiency, adding that any fare increase would come as a last resort.

Ho said KMB has yet to submit an application for an increase.

The company will first negotiate with district councils on re-routing or adjusting timetables to lower operational costs.

"Proposals to reorganize routes have been given to the district councils and we will welcome suggestions," she added.

Ho said yesterday the company is under pressure to adjust fares due to soaring oil prices, increasing tunnel tolls and higher wages being paid to bus drivers.

She was speaking after the company's safe driving awards ceremony.

A total of 668 KMB bus captains were given awards for achieving "zero accident" records of five years or more, while 48 others won awards for clean driving records of more than 20 years.

Ho said KMB will recruit 800 full-time drivers on top of its 8,000 crew to improve services.

She said the company is often criticized for not keeping to schedules. "Lost trips can be attributed to a shortage of drivers and to other factors that are beyond our control such as road congestion and traffic incidents," she said.

The rate of lost trips dropped from 7percent to 5percent this month.

According to the Transport Department, Kowloon City, Sham Shui Po and Yau Tsim Mong were the top three districts for lost trips last year - about 11.1 percent.

The commissioner for transport has issued two warning letters to KMB, the latest one last month, demanding improvements be made to its services by the middle of June.

By Love.HotdogBus from a Hong Kong bus forum :

http://i1064.photobucket.com/albums/u370/weekphoto/photo105.jpg

By HL8354 from a Hong Kong bus forum :

http://i748.photobucket.com/albums/xx129/HL8354/HOT%20DOG/_MG_0314.jpg

http://i748.photobucket.com/albums/xx129/HL8354/HOT%20DOG/_MG_0329.jpg

http://i748.photobucket.com/albums/xx129/HL8354/HOT%20DOG/_MG_0320.jpg

By ksba from a hong Kong bus forum :

http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt107/basupura/IMG_3337X.jpg

By nwfb94A from a hong Kong bus forum :

http://i859.photobucket.com/albums/ab152/nwfb94A/P4145323-23.jpg

By HL8354 from a hong Kong bus forum :

http://i748.photobucket.com/albums/xx129/HL8354/Whole%20bus%20adv/_MG_0367.jpg

By GP 4661 from a Hong Kong bus forum :

http://i1201.photobucket.com/albums/bb346/JF6723/IMG_4488.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7178/7106373871_b6c69fcbbf_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/77563915@N03/7106373871/)
GA 12523 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/77563915@N03/7106373871/) by HE 6672 (http://www.flickr.com/people/77563915@N03/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8143/7106373523_df0712daf0_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/77563915@N03/7106373523/)
GA 12522 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/77563915@N03/7106373523/) by HE 6672 (http://www.flickr.com/people/77563915@N03/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7181/7106373109_36cac039f6_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/77563915@N03/7106373109/)
GA 12521 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/77563915@N03/7106373109/) by HE 6672 (http://www.flickr.com/people/77563915@N03/), on Flickr

Mind providing some more pictures.of A/C buses?

Bus firms get new deals
The Standard
Wednesday, April 25, 2012

Three bus companies operating services to the airport and North Lantau were awarded new 10-year franchises after giving assurances they will offer more discounts.

Secretary for Transport and Housing Eva Cheng Yu-wah said New World First Bus Services, Long Win Bus Company and Citybus promised discounts, with half involving interchange services and the other half section fares.

"They have promised not only to offer discounts but also to consider environmental protection," Cheng said.

At present, there are 112 section fares among the 128 routes offered by the companies. There are also 116 interchange discounts.

Under the new franchise granted by the Executive Council, the interchange discounts will range from 30 cents to HK$18 while the discounts on section fares will run from 50 cents to HK$24.90.

For example, there is no section fare for Long Win's N42A bus from Fan Ling to Tung Chung, meaning passengers have to pay the full HK$30.10 fare no matter where they hop on the bus.

But now passengers will have to pay only HK$5.20 if they board the bus at a stop near the airport.

The new franchise for New World First Bus will start on July 1 next year and those for the other two companies on May 1 next year.

Up to 8,000 passengers will benefit daily from the new discounts in addition to the existing 170,000 commuters.

Commissioner for Transport Joseph Lai Yee-tak said the government decided against asking the bus companies to offer section fares on all services as this will give rise to a misallocation of road resources.

He explained that the government classifies bus routes into short- distance and long-distance. Offering section fares will drive people to take long-distance buses even if they only travel a short distance.

Lai also said the companies will buy 700 more environmentally friendly buses with zero-emissions being the ultimate goal.

Under the new franchise, bus companies will have to adopt barrier- free and elderly friendly features on new buses.

They will also have to allow passengers to bring foldable bicycles on board.

Lai said the government decided not to impose a punctuality penalty on the bus companies as complaints of late arrivals are less than 2percent.

Richard Tsoi Yiu-cheong, spokesman of the Coalition to Monitor Public Transport and Utilities, said the discounts are insufficient and companies should give monthly discounts to regular commuters.

By ME 9186 x ATE 237 from a Hong Kong bus forum :

http://i1098.photobucket.com/albums/g379/ATE237/DSC_1603.jpg

By KM7241 from a Hong Kong bus forum :

http://i1141.photobucket.com/albums/n592/NL273a/Full%20Ads/PC642998A-32.jpg

By Leo113 from a Hong Kong bus forum :

http://i1143.photobucket.com/albums/n640/LeoWong113/DSC00517-tiltshift.jpg

KMB black routes revealed in Kowloon late-bus survey
The Standard
Monday, April 30, 2012

http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee198/EU8914/KMB_Dragon/GT7040_66.jpg
By DX2437_EU8914 from a Hong Kong bus forum.

Half of KMB buses on 11 routes have failed to keep to their scheduled runs, a survey has found.

The Democratic Alliance for the Betterment and Progress of Hong Kong picked 34 of the 207 Kowloon Motor Bus routes passing through Kowloon City, Sham Shui Po and Yau Tsim Mong, or terminating in the three districts, from April 16 to 26.

All 34 saw problems of lost trips to varying degrees, the DAB found.

Service 3C, from Hong Kong China Ferry Terminal to Tsz Wan Shan, was among the worst offenders, with 80 percent of its trips running outside their schedule.

Passengers were having to wait more than 20 minutes instead of the promised 10 minutes.

Even if the services are running to timetable, the DAB said passengers still encounter problems as buses are full during peak hours.

Lawmaker Starry Lee Wai-king urged KMB, the largest franchised bus company in Hong Kong, to improve its service accuracy.

She said the Transport Department should monitor the problem closely and demand regular reports from KMB so the problem of lost trips can be disclosed to the public.

A KMB spokeswoman said efforts have been made to reroute or adjust the timetable to tie in with the actual journey time, and the problem is being rectified.

"Lost trips can be attributed to a shortage of drivers and to other factors that are beyond our control such as road congestion and traffic incidents," she said. The company has hired more drivers and improved pay.

The department said Kowloon City, Sham Shui Po and Yau Tsim Mong were the top three districts for lost trips last year, at 11.1 percent. The commissioner for transport issued two warning letters to KMB, the latest one last month.

Last hot dog on 30X by S3BL417 from a Hong Kong bus forum :

http://i1059.photobucket.com/albums/t423/AVW12/IMG_7400.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7104/7208836196_332831d3c7_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/40124477@N02/7208836196/)
16 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/40124477@N02/7208836196/) by AVBE (http://www.flickr.com/people/40124477@N02/), on Flickr