KMB’s new-generation electric single-decker to commence service Moving forward in upgrading the entire fleet to new energy buses

The Kowloon Motor Bus Co. (1933) Ltd. (“KMB”) has dedicated to promoting green transportation. A batch of 16 new-generation single-deck electric buses has commenced service today, travelling along busy corridors including Nathan Road. KMB has also purchased 52 electric double-deckers that will arrive Hong Kong next year, making the total number of electric buses owned by KMB over 80. These mark a significant step forward in the development of zero-emission technology and the goal to upgrade our entire fleet to new energy buses.

A new generation of electric single-decker commences service

The new batch of electric single-deckers will be deployed on Route 6 [Lai Chi Kok ⇋ Star Ferry] starting on 25 April. The route travels along busy corridors such as Nathan Road, providing a clean and quiet travel experience to the public.

The new buses meet the latest standards of KMB, including free 5G Wi-Fi internet connection services provided and ventilation windows installed.

As for the safety features, there are seatbelts on every seat. The buses are also equipped with the Electronic Stability Programme.

The single-deck electric buses with the body painted in “Electric Green” demonstrate KMB’s commitment to evolving in the new green era. It has equipped with the Battery Management System (“BMS”) and the Water Cooling System, which help monitor the efficiency and condition of the battery and control its temperature, effectively extending the battery life cycle and improving performance. The new model is 4% lighter than its predecessor, with the passenger capacity increased by 16% to 81 people. It only takes 1 hour and 40 minutes to get fully charged, which is 2 hours faster than before, with 200 kilometres of driving range.

Over 50 electric double-deckers purchased

KMB has purchased 52 double-deck electric buses from China’s BYD and the United Kingdom’s Alexander Dennis Limited (“ADL”), which are planned to be delivered by next year. The two models are 12 metres long with an estimated passenger capacity of 120 people. It will take only 2.5 hours to fully charge for the buses, providing some 300km driving range.

These new electric double-deckers that are going to serve Hong Kong citizens will also be equipped with the BMS and Water Cooling System. The BYD double-deckers will be using its newly designed, Blade Battery which helps significantly increase the battery’s efficiency.

The ultra-thin solar panels are also installed on the bus roof of these newly purchased electric double-deckers to supply electricity for onboard facilities, further utilising renewable energy on a zero-emission electric bus.

The new double-deckers will have enlarged legroom and a widened gangway, with two wheelchair parking spaces. Seat belts are also equipped on each seat, and safety features include the GreenRoad system, Electronic Stability Programme and Driving Monitoring System. These allow the passengers to enjoy a green, comfortable and safe bus journey.

KMB will have over 80 electric buses in its fleet by next year, including these new batches of electric buses and the current 30 electric single-deckers, moving forward to upgrading the entire fleet to new energy buses by 2050.

KMB Assistant Director (Strategic Planning), Gary Leung, said, “Hong Kong has the world’s toughest operating environment for buses, which the new electric double-deckers will meet the demanding requirements. KMB will continue to work with bus manufacturers worldwide to introduce more clean energy buses suitable to the city, promoting green transport and contributing to carbon neutrality in Hong Kong.”

With various new development areas soon to be established, such as the former quarry at Anderson Road, Kwun Tong, KMB is also interested in operating the new routes in the vicinity with the latest model of double-deck electric buses. We believe that it can provide a greener and more pleasant environment for the residents through zero-emission technology other than catering for their travel needs.

Aiming at purchasing 500 electric buses by 2025

In order to show our commitment to the development of green transportation and the determination to reduce carbon emissions, KMB has already laid down a clear timeline for upgrading our whole fleet to new energy buses. We expect to have 82 electric buses serving the public by 2023 and purchase 500 more electric buses in 2025. By 2050, the whole fleet will be upgraded to new energy buses.

KMB is actively installing charging facilities in existing depots. We are also planning to build two multi-storey bus depots in Tuen Mun and Tai Po for the new energy buses, with completion expected in four to five years, with 850 parking spaces provided.

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