SBS9C - The Forgotten B10M Mk I Demonstrator

sgbuses SG

The history of the Volvo B10M with Singapore Bus Services (SBS, now SBS Transit) began with this bus. SBS9C was purchased by SBS as a demonstrator back in 1986 for evaluation. It was air-conditioned and known to be deployed on Service 9, 111 and 118.

(Source: http://sgforums.com/forums/1279/topics/456777?page=2)

The outcome of the evaluation was successful; the rest, they say, is history. Over 1,000 units in Mk II, Mk III and Mk IV variations were purchased by SBS Transit, bodied by Duple Metsec and Walter Alexander. Many enthuasists ride the existing Volvo B10M Mk IV fleet more frequently as they are retiring gradually. They are the last step-floored single-deck buses to be operated by SBS Transit.

So what has happened to SBS9C?

Apparently, SBS9C was exported to New Zealand in 1999. It changed hands a couple of times between operators in Christchurch. You can find the records here.

8 years after 2005, is the bus still around?

It turns out that this demonstrator is still alive today.

It is ZH6548 with Nimon & Sons (Nimbus) operating as a schoolbus, a fate similar to the two articulated buses SBS Transit has sold (SBS998Y and SBS999U).

This amazing bus has all its decals and badges completely intact.

http://busglobe.com/picture/6985
http://busglobe.com/picture/6984

Here's the icing on the cake. An amazing video of SBS9C reversing out of the parking bay:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i1Fj24uJx0s

These photos and videos are taken by Kim Loevenskjold (KimB10M). In respect of his copyright I have chosen not to embed these media here.

In addition, a few specification sheets of the Van Hool B10M by Wigan Airways:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/wiganairways/5326424367/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/wiganairways/5327033850/

I hope with this new information you will appreciate the SBS Transit B10Ms more as you go out to spot them next week.

On a personal note, I have thoroughly enjoyed riding the vintage O305s, B58s and B10Ms in Australia, and will be uploading the media on Youtube and my website when I have some free time.

Finally, I am pretty sure someone will rip this information off publicly...and that didn't take long.

SMB66X SG

Only bus with Van Hool bodywork...measures 11.8m long. Able to ferry 81 pax. Serving svc9 before.

Credit : Fleet Directory book

SBS9C SG

This really came as a surprise. I thought it didn't exist anymore. Seems like it retains the original seats and covers. Hope to see some interior shots too.

SBS9C!

Edit: 1099 posts since Sep '09! A tribute to this bus!

sgbuses SG

This really came as a surprise. I thought it didn't exist anymore. Seems like it retains the original seats and covers. Hope to see some interior shots too.

SBS9C!

Edit: 1099 posts since Sep '09! A tribute to this bus!

Salute! I was just as surprised and happy when I stumbled upon the photos.

Better to keep it (and the two articulated buses) away from Singapore - nothing seems to escape the scrapyard or its scavangers these days!

SBS2601D SG

Anyone found pictures of our VO2X in NZ? Or is it NZ?

Edit:

I found the answer: They are in UK.

sgbuses SG

Anyone found pictures of our VO2X in NZ? Or is it NZ?

Edit:

I found the answer: They are in UK.

SBS7204J -> K174EUX, First Glasgow. 30107

Suffered a radiator fire in 2010 and does not appear to be in service.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/jg1004/9387134680/

SBS7251Y -> M650ELA, Metroline -> Ensign -> Veolia Transport. 65010 (previous AV39)

http://www.flickr.com/photos/eybusman/3955524022/

http://www.flickr.com/photos/[email protected]/9139493914/

Both units received EDS from their new owners along the way.

There are YouTube videos uploaded by UK enthusiasts. Search under their current registration number.

House of Chin SG

i more impressed with the van hool bodywork than alexander or metsec.

van hool closer in class or quality standard to hispano or the original branded integral buses. sbs9c still used rear seperate air-con engine, the doors swivel to open/close so opening rather narrow so only 1 person go at 1 time..no squeaking cracking noise fairly solid bodywork..i remember

btw, what happened to the mercedes-benz o 305 with single-deck belkof bodywork ? i never got to try that in singapore !

iveco SG

On a personal note, I have thoroughly enjoyed riding the vintage O305s, B58s and B10Ms in Australia, and will be uploading the media on Youtube and my website when I have some free time.

Can't say the same thing with respect to certain Scania models.