clarification: the LTA is not making its own buses. as you can see from the article, they are having concept buses to help them decide on future bus purchases.
Originally posted by ^tamago^:
Designing a better ride on public buses
Catering to various commuter groups part of LTA tender requirementsPUBLIC buses will offer a better ride in the future as the Land Transport Authority (LTA) studies how to improve their design.
It is looking at tweaks to improve commuter flow, for instance getting passengers to move to the back of the bus, and to minimise the time they take to board and alight.
It will also look at catering to different groups of commuters, including the elderly who need seats, the visually challenged with guide dogs, and travellers with bulky items.
Last week, the LTA called a tender asking manufacturers and suppliers to submit design proposals based on these considerations, and to build actual-size mockups of prototype buses.
“LTA is studying what enhancements in design and features could be incorporated for future bus purchases and are best suited to operations in Singapore,” a spokesman said.
The concept models must have passenger seats, driver’s cabin, handrails and other interior and exterior fittings, according to the tender documents.
A workable door system, interior lighting and air-conditioning will also have to be installed.
The tender, which closes next month, requires companies to consider factors such as comfort, safety and carrying capacity during peak hours.
These concept buses – two single-deckers and two double-deckers – will be shown to the public to gather their feedback.
This will be valuable when deciding on future bus purchases, LTA said.
As the bus industry transits into a state contracting model, all fleets and infrastructure will be government-owned, with routes tendered out to operators to run.
The first tender package for 24 routes in the western part of the island is expected to be awarded soon. Eight companies shortlisted include local operators SBS Transit and SMRT, and players from Australia, Britain and France.
A poll of 30 bus commuters found that enhancements relating to safety, accessibility and comfort were top of their wishlists.
“I hope for more handrails, especially in the middle of the bus,” said undergraduate Alison Ong, 20. Ms Clare Wong, 51, a homemaker, wanted more space for big items like market trolleys and luggage. Others suggested wider seats and more seating set aside for the elderly and disabled.
Retiree Lee Ley Lun, 60, said: “How about some piped music and brighter (interior) colours to cheer everyone up?” -ST
Source: The Straits Times
In other news, only a certain number of buses from the incumbent operators SBS and TIBS will be purchased by the LTA, on top of the government-funded BSEP buses it already has.
I have a feeling that once the LTA has decided on what kind of buses they want to buy, there may be new models of buses on our roads.
So only Alexander Dennis and MAN won right?I wonder what type of SD will ADL produce?A modified E300?
Originally posted by carbikebus:So only Alexander Dennis and MAN won right?I wonder what type of SD will ADL produce?A modified E300?
ADL did not propose any SD product for the bid.
In any event, tender results show that LTA did not accept any SD bid or SD + DD bid.
Someone posted that the KMB VDL is pulling out of svc...and MIGHT be coming to Singapore next.. *Not sure if it's reliable*
Another test test of 2-axle DD??