Mercedes-Benz O305 ME30

ME30 was one of 40 double-decker Mercedes-Benz vehicles delivered in 1985, following an original prototype delivered to Hong Kong in 1983. These buses were in response to the rapid growth of population experienced during the 1980s, which placed increased demands on the public transport network in Hong Kong.

The Mercedes-Benz vehicles were the first buses to be delivered to a franchise operator in Hong Kong after the restriction of buying buses from Commonwealth countries was removed. The double decker version of the Mercedes-Benz O305 was originally designed for South Africa and Singapore.

ME30, together with the other 40 fleet members, was assembled in Hong Kong by KMB, with kits from Alexander in Scotland. This fleet was painted into a special livery. In the early stages of operation, these buses were largely used on the high demand cross-harbour tunnel bus services. Later in their career they were then transferred to the service linking Yuen Long in New Territory and Kowloon, due to their higher horsepower output.

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ME30 was withdrawn in November, 2002, and placed in temporary storage. It was then purchased by an Australian enthusiast, and was shipped to Port Kembla in March, 2009. Restored to as-withdrawn condition, ME30 was subsequently donated to the Sydney Bus Museum in 2020.

Specifications:

Engine: Rear underfloor mounted Mercedes-Benz OM-407H 11-litre 6-cylinder diesel engine developing 147kw at 2200 r.p.m. Bore 125mm, stroke 155mm.

Transmission: Three-speed Mercedes-Benz W3D080 automatic gearbox with inbuilt hydraulic retarder to a hub-reduction rear axle assembly.

Brakes: Dual circuit air brakes with ABS, gearbox hydraulic retarder and spring applied parking brake. 

Body: Alexander RH-type

Status:

Undergoing body works