Actually, I've been thinking and I kind of agree with SBS3975T on
this point. What I think, however, is that any objection
would come from the part of the incumbent PTOs themselves.
The seat covers, grabpoles and other interior fittings are
part of their corporate image - just imagine the red seats-purple
grabpoles combination of SBS, or that yellow poster that SMRT uses
for their "Please pay the correct fare", very recognisable...
for an example, just take a look at the Mobility Park mockup,
from the inside, what makes it recognisably SMRT? This even
extends to fittings like the SMRT PIS. Corporate image would
also be the one that incorporates elements such as the BCs'
uniforms, et cetera. The companies may have spent time and
money to craft their corporate image, and I wouldn't be surprised
if they may even have hired consultants to help them with the
design. That is why I would suspect they may possibly be the
one to raise an objection if their corporate image, which they have
taken pains to build up, is wantonly used on other operators'
buses.
if the PTO have any objections, they should have inform LTA,
when they place order in 2014 (for the 2nd batch of BSEP buses).
and could easily tell LTA that those BSEP buses should be using
different interior (that time, GCM was already annouced).. but
apparently,SBST did not do so....
can tell you that the Singapore PTO wont care about their
corporate image lah... if they really care, you wont see buses with
patches here and there (look at BBDEP buses), or you wont see those
buses with super old/dirty livery or interior...
already dun have time to manage the operations still want to
care about the corporate image?