FMR Mercedes Citaro acquisitions

[willr7]

Meanwhile, 53207 was also out in service today (don't know if this was it's first day out or not) It appeared to be showing a 'Potteries' route on the destination display when pictured at the Bus Station (so maybe just out on a test or something...)
Link to picture: https://www.flickr.com/photos/westmids- ... datetaken/

[Charliedaffin]

Does anyone have a picture of 64021 in the new livery as I am curious to see how the nimrod livery looks on an older citaro

Here is a picture I have just found on Flickr (Taken today) of 64021.
Link: https://www.flickr.com/photos/westmids- ... datetaken/

Thanks

[AdamH]

I'm told it is a lack of ticket machine base-plates available at the moment that is slowing down the entry into service.

[willr7]

I'm told it is a lack of ticket machine base-plates available at the moment that is slowing down the entry into service.

I see... Is that because they need a different type of base-plate due to teh fact they are different vehicles or are all fitted with the same type? Sorry I don't know much about the ticket machines...

[AdamH]

I think they are the same type, but I guess the company only bought enough to meet their fleet capacity at the time, plus maybe a few spares. Also, you may have seen that the ticket machine sits on the cab door in the Citaro, and that makes the wiring a bit awkward.

I doubt they will want to buy an additional ten or so units only to have the same number spares once the Solos and Darts are withdrawn, so this may be a case of having to withdraw one vehicle at at time and wait half a day while the equipment is removed and fitted to the replacement, before moving on the next one.

[willr7]

I think they are the same type, but I guess the company only bought enough to meet their fleet capacity at the time, plus maybe a few spares. Also, you may have seen that the ticket machine sits on the cab door in the Citaro, and that makes the wiring a bit awkward.

I doubt they will want to buy an additional ten or so units only to have the same number spares once the Solos and Darts are withdrawn, so this may be a case of having to withdraw one vehicle at at time and wait half a day while the equipment is removed and fitted to the replacement, before moving on the next one.

Ahh, I see! It would definitely make sense to do what you suggest (withdrawing/replacing one at a time) However, A shame for the impatient of us who are eager to see them out in service!

[Charliedaffin]

I think they are the same type, but I guess the company only bought enough to meet their fleet capacity at the time, plus maybe a few spares. Also, you may have seen that the ticket machine sits on the cab door in the Citaro, and that makes the wiring a bit awkward.

I doubt they will want to buy an additional ten or so units only to have the same number spares once the Solos and Darts are withdrawn, so this may be a case of having to withdraw one vehicle at at time and wait half a day while the equipment is removed and fitted to the replacement, before moving on the next one.

Ahh, I see! It would definitely make sense to do what you suggest (withdrawing/replacing one at a time) However, A shame for the impatient of us who are eager to see them out in service!

If this where the case, that would mean there would be no unveiling event for the new nimrod branding as they would have to be introduced 1 by 1

[bmmoboy]

I had 64016 this morning on six 35s. Absolutely fantastic. Smooth, light steering, superb brakes, the only thing wrong was the lack of cash trays. After four and a half hours driving, I felt as if I hadn't done anything, it was such a pleasure to drive. Lets hope the rest of the Citaros are the same. Its just a pity it was raining and there weren't any photographers about.

[AdamH]

If this where the case, that would mean there would be no unveiling event for the new nimrod branding as they would have to be introduced 1 by 1

I'm not sure there is going to be a launch event. Not heard anything said about one.

[AdamH]

...After four and a half hours driving, I felt as if I hadn't done anything, it was such a pleasure to drive...

So if you have one of these, will you work more than 2 days a week?