Metro-Scania: the first is ready
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—and LT is interested! by Derek Moses
• The first of the two prototype Metro-Scania single-deck city and urban buses (CM October 31 was completed at the Washwood Heath works of Metro-Cammell Weymann Ltd. last week, ready for trial operation with British operators.
Built by Scania Bussar AB in its Katrineholm bus factory, Sweden, and fitted with engine and running units by the parent company of AB Scania Vabis, Sadertalje, the two prototypes have' been specially modified to comply with the British Ministry of Transport standards, making them eligible for the 25 per cent rebate, The main variation from the CR110M integral design on which they are based has been the provision of a flatter front reducing the front overhang while retaining the wide double entrance.
Another feature of the Metro-Scania buses is the use of asymmetrical windscreens, with a very deep nearside screen to give the driver maximum visibility when approaching stops. The whole restyling of the front has been cleverly exercised, and presents a pleasing appearance in keeping with the rest of the body style.
In view of the forecast in CM November 12 1965 that London Transport would like to try out Scania buses in London, the following statement from an LTB spokesman this week is very significant: "If a suitable route can be found London Transport would like to run one of these single-deck {Metro-Scania) prototypes in service to compare its performance with that of the new single-deckers now running:"
The qualification "suitable routeis made because the prototype 36ft Metro-Scania has a lower seating capacity than comparable size LT single-deckers in service. I understand that London Transport wish to compare the prototype with the similar capacity 33ft AEC Swifts shortly to go into service.