Hi guys! I know this has probably been mentioned in other threads but I've seen a Gemini 3 has arrived at BC. Anyone knows if there's any plans to bring it to PB? Would like to get a photo of it.
I don't know but Tony said there might be a brand new non adl bus in the west midlands soon in the Dundee trend
I'm hearing the Gemini 3 is now at WA. Any plans for it to operate a few routes?
Does anyone know why NX have brought it to West Mids must be for a reason. Are they considering acquiring some, trialling dual doors, unlikely, or is it being considered as a possible 'Sprint' vehicle as suggested elsewhere? Any thoughts?
I saw it at Bordesley garage last Thursday.
Quote from: RW on September 23, 2015, 09:43:00 AM
Does anyone know why NX have brought it to West Mids must be for a reason. Are they considering acquiring some, trialling dual doors, unlikely, or is it being considered as a possible 'Sprint' vehicle as suggested elsewhere? Any thoughts?
With the problems plaguing the ADL vehicles delivered this year, maybe they're looking to source other vehicles .. ?!
Quote from: RW on September 23, 2015, 09:43:00 AM
Does anyone know why NX have brought it to West Mids must be for a reason. Are they considering acquiring some, trialling dual doors, unlikely, or is it being considered as a possible 'Sprint' vehicle as suggested elsewhere? Any thoughts?
Doubt it - was it
@BU07 LGO that said it acquired the NX Logo over at Walsall?
Have they brought it or is a demostrator thats going to go esle where
Here is what it looks like now, fleetnumber 4798
http://www.wmbusphotos.com/NXWM/5001-9959/BX14TJV.html
When is it going into service and at which depot?
Quote from: Tony on September 23, 2015, 07:40:46 PM
Here is what it looks like now, fleetnumber 4798
http://www.wmbusphotos.com/NXWM/5001-9959/BX14TJV.html
If it's been allocated a fleet number, is it likely to enter public service?
Any idea yet what purpose it is for? I assume that as it hasn't had the full repaint treatment, it is just going to remain on loan.
Quote from: Tony on September 23, 2015, 07:40:46 PM
Here is what it looks like now, fleetnumber 4798
http://www.wmbusphotos.com/NXWM/5001-9959/BX14TJV.html
It looks good, but it would look far better in Crimson.
Good to see NXWM evaluating different options as well. When demonstrators are put out on routes is there any attempt to gain the impressions and feedback of passengers?
Am I the only one to think it looks absolutely hideous?! What on earth have Wrightbus done to the Gemini which used to look this good:
https://www.flickr.com/photos/john-s-91/5621435350/
https://www.flickr.com/photos/john-s-91/9242833456/
https://www.flickr.com/photos/eybusman/19808898035/
https://www.flickr.com/photos/davidsnwtransport/20598526853/
Or even the less attractive looking hybrids:
https://www.flickr.com/photos/davidsnwtransport/13775854564/
And as for the front of the new StreetDecks... ::)
Quote from: Kevin_Brum12 on September 23, 2015, 08:05:26 PM
It looks good, but it would look far better in Crimson.
Good to see NXWM evaluating different options as well. When demonstrators are put out on routes is there any attempt to gain the impressions and feedback of passengers?
Somewhat surprised its not in crimson although I cant say I like the dual door setup
I think so, I believe when the Enviro 400 & Scania OmniCity DD first came to NX (4697 & 4698), I think the drivers preferred the Enviro hence its large order compared to a few OmniCitys. If these are anything but an improvement on the Geminis we have, I can't wait !
Quote from: GeminiFan1991 on September 23, 2015, 08:22:41 PM
Somewhat surprised its not in crimson although I cant say I like the dual door setup
It's only a short term demo, you don't paint them, all the paintshop have done is removed any old vinyls and put fleetnumbers on
Quote from: Tony on September 23, 2015, 08:29:35 PM
It's only a short term demo, you don't paint them, all the paintshop have done is removed any old vinyls and put fleetnumbers on
oh ok, I was just surprised that they applied logos and gave the vehicle a fleet number despite being a demonstrator
Are their any exteral bodywork differences between it and the B5L Hybrids ?!
Quote from: GeminiFan1991 on September 23, 2015, 09:09:15 PM
oh ok, I was just surprised that they applied logos and gave the vehicle a fleet number despite being a demonstrator
Are their any exteral bodywork differences between it and the B5L Hybrids ?!
Well the upper deck is an obvious one...
I'm a little maybe someone can help me out... I was under the impression that the 5 year ADL deal was an exclusive... Has this now changed, or was exclusive just a word thrown out by ADL and the press, or was the use of the exclusive word not legally binding, this is ofcourse on the presumption that NX were looking at alternative manufactures... Could just be evaluating duel door use.
Quote from: GeminiFan1991 on September 23, 2015, 09:09:15 PM
oh ok, I was just surprised that they applied logos and gave the vehicle a fleet number despite being a demonstrator
Are their any exteral bodywork differences between it and the B5L Hybrids ?!
The original B5LH demo was numbered 4699.
Quote from: DiamondDart on September 23, 2015, 08:18:39 PM
Am I the only one to think it looks absolutely hideous?! What on earth have Wrightbus done to the Gemini which used to look this good:
https://www.flickr.com/photos/john-s-91/5621435350/
https://www.flickr.com/photos/john-s-91/9242833456/
https://www.flickr.com/photos/eybusman/19808898035/
https://www.flickr.com/photos/davidsnwtransport/20598526853/
Or even the less attractive looking hybrids:
https://www.flickr.com/photos/davidsnwtransport/13775854564/
And as for the front of the new StreetDecks... ::)
The B5LH looks a bit weird due to the short wheelbase. The latest version is available as a long wheelbase, as per Lothian's latest 15 plate examples and these do look far more in proportion. The latest Gemini 3 body (it's available on the Volvo B5 chassis, not just on the Streetdeck) is quite controversial, but I must admit is slowly growing on me.
I'm going to make an uncontroversial guess that this will just be trialled alongside the existing B5s on the 22/23. It's already visited BC after all.
I quite like the design of this demonstrator - always liked Volvos anyway and would still like to see new Volvos ordered again in the future. Would look great in Crimson !
I much prefer the Volvos B5s at BC in comparison to the ADL Hybrids at WN. I just feel the Volvos are better quality.
Quote from: Liberator9 on September 23, 2015, 10:38:19 PM
I quite like the design of this demonstrator - always liked Volvos anyway and would still like to see new Volvos ordered again in the future. Would look great in Crimson !
I much prefer the Volvos B5s at BC in comparison to the ADL Hybrids at WN. The volvos I just feel the Volvos are better quality.
Nowadays, buses are looking a total mess. No real design in these machines anymore.
Quote from: ronnoc1k8 on September 23, 2015, 10:39:09 PM
Nowadays, buses are looking a total mess. No real design in these machines anymore.
I have to disagree with this i'm afraid, maybe this was true in the mid 90's but now with the newer models ADL Enviros, Wright STreetdecks, the Boris buses I think buses are looking alot better.
Quote from: Mike K on September 23, 2015, 10:12:47 PM
The B5LH looks a bit weird due to the short wheelbase. The latest version is available as a long wheelbase, as per Lothian's latest 15 plate examples and these do look far more in proportion. The latest Gemini 3 body (it's available on the Volvo B5 chassis, not just on the Streetdeck) is quite controversial, but I must admit is slowly growing on me.
I'm going to make an uncontroversial guess that this will just be trialled alongside the existing B5s on the 22/23. It's already visited BC after all.
I guess to the average person, they'll think it's the normal hybrid which has been repainted !
It's presumably a Euro 6 bus but it won't be any more economically viable than any other hybrid so an order for more will need some sort of green bus grant as before. I wasn't aware any more grants were in the pipeline.
Anyone know where it is now and what it's up to?
Quote from: Chris on September 23, 2015, 05:11:20 PM
Have they brought it or is a demostrator thats going to go esle where
They have brought it to Walsall.
It may well go to Esle in future.
I can't understand why, given its age, it wasn't given fleet number 4999.
Quote from: GeminiFan1991 on September 24, 2015, 10:37:25 AM
I guess to the average person, they'll think it's the normal hybrid which has been repainted !
The average person doesn't know hybrids exist.
While on broad st last nite I noticed in my rear view mirror what appeared to be a Wrightbus street deck with the controversial new front end when the street light caught the paint work it appeared to be pink reminding me of the one at a show last year. Just wandered if any one else might of seen it around brum yesterday evening.
Quote from: 2900 on September 27, 2015, 10:34:49 AM
While on broad st last nite I noticed in my rear view mirror what appeared to be a Wrightbus street deck with the controversial new front end when the street light caught the paint work it appeared to be pink reminding me of the one at a show last year. Just wandered if any one else might of seen it around brum yesterday evening.
That is one of Firsts
@2900 it was on Rugby world cup shuttles
Quote from: 2900 on September 27, 2015, 10:34:49 AM
While on broad st last nite I noticed in my rear view mirror what appeared to be a Wrightbus street deck with the controversial new front end when the street light caught the paint work it appeared to be pink reminding me of the one at a show last year. Just wandered if any one else might of seen it around brum yesterday evening.
One of two first Leicester ones on Villa Prk VIP shuttles
Thanks for the info, thought I was seeing things while sucking on exhaust fumes on broad st , mind you the springboks green army were in cheerful mood last nite .
Quote from: 2900 on September 27, 2015, 10:43:03 AM
Thanks for the info, thought I was seeing things while sucking on exhaust fumes on broad st , mind you the springboks green army were in cheerful mood last nite .
I saw it too. At first, I glanced across Broad Street to a brightly lit bus. Upon closer inspection, I noticed smaller upper deck windows, and thought, "Is the demo out tonight?" - I then noticed the paintwork, and it was surprising, to say the least. I have a video, on my flickr page - and a couple photos which should come up soon.
Seen the demostrator bus heading perry barr around 11:30
Quote from: Nxwm on September 28, 2015, 12:49:30 PM
Seen the demostrator bus heading perry barr around 11:30
Has the demonstrator gone to PB then? Might pop there afterschool to have a look.
Just been told it is being put into service at PB. Not sure if this is true though.
Quote from: clayderman on September 29, 2015, 03:42:08 PM
2116 been on the 24 all day - it seems.
Also, BC seemed to have also fixed the typo on the 23A. The side display, on 5504 at least, read "Kitwell and Woodgate", and scrolls! As opposed to the static 'Kiwell & Woodgate' - this ot my hopes up high to see the typo on the 29A fixed. Unfortunatly not. Still alternates between "29A Northfield", and "29A via Haborne" ::)
And how was the demonstrator while this was occurring?
Quote from: The Real 4778 on September 29, 2015, 09:54:07 PM
And how was the demonstrator while this was occurring?
My bad - posted in wrong thread! Was meant for the BC thread, which was why I was confused because I was sure I posted it... ::) Dammit!
Quote from: clayderman on September 29, 2015, 11:27:51 PM
My bad - posted in wrong thread! Was meant for the BC thread, which was why I was confused because I was sure I posted it... ::) Dammit!
No worries mate, gave me a good chuckle once I had sussed it!
So is this demostrator going in service? If so what garages are going have this demostrator bus?
Quote from: Nxwm on September 30, 2015, 10:57:25 AM
So is this demostrator going in service? If so what garages are going have this demostrator bus?
Just wait and see, i am sure most of us dying to find out too
It seems to be doing the rounds of the garages so I wonder if it's demonstrating one of its features. I still can't see why a hybrid should be tried as I don't think there are any grants available for them.
There is a chance it will be used on the Amazon contract
Quote from: Tony on September 30, 2015, 06:37:39 PM
There is a chance it will be used on the Amazon contract
I hope so ! I hope it makes its way into the A52, the could put the bus through its paces
Could anyone please tell me what route or routes 4798 is going to be used on and is it going to stay at Birmingham Central or move around?
Quote from: Stevo on September 30, 2015, 06:36:21 PM
It seems to be doing the rounds of the garages so I wonder if it's demonstrating one of its features. I still can't see why a hybrid should be tried as I don't think there are any grants available for them.
Is the Green Bus funding finished now? I see this year there is a similar type of scheme to retrofit existing vehicles to make them greener, but nothing for new vehicle purchases. Does it work differently in London, as there is still a steady stream of new hybrids there?
Already a thread, Just below this one :)
But to answer no routes yet that we know of but possibility of Amazon services.
Quote from: Tony on September 30, 2015, 06:37:39 PM
There is a chance it will be used on the Amazon contract
I'm hoping it will be used on Cap Gemini!
It was parked up in the rear yard at Perry Barr last night .Viewed from the university car park area adjacent to the depot.
Just had 4798 on 907a took my life in my hands with them kids lol
Quote from: 4484 on October 06, 2015, 04:02:54 PM
Just had 4798 on 907a took my life in my hands with them kids lol
I was on 4798 just. Was the kid at the front with the driver.
Initial views ?!
Quote from: GeminiFan1991 on October 06, 2015, 05:04:55 PM
Initial views ?!
Really good! Comfortable and all the kids like it!
Quote from: GeminiFan1991 on October 06, 2015, 05:04:55 PM
Initial views ?!
Quote from: Michael Bevan on October 06, 2015, 05:19:47 PM
Really good! Comfortable and all the kids like it!
Aesthetics aside - would you consider them drastically different than the current B5s? I hope they'll come out on something other than Caps Gemini or the 907A... :( - and with Tony's post in the AG thread, I could only imagine this [4798] would pop down there soon.
Quote from: clayderman on October 06, 2015, 05:40:17 PM
Aesthetics aside - would you consider them drastically different than the current B5s? I hope they'll come out on something other than Caps Gemini or the 907A... :( - and with Tony's post in the AG thread, I could only imagine this [4798] would pop down there soon.
It will probably do all the garages (excluding BY and maybe CV)
It was in Moor Street this evening. doing the Waterlands shuttle, I think. Is that Cap Gemini?
Quote from: Chris on October 06, 2015, 05:43:39 PM
It will probably do all the garages (excluding BY and maybe CV)
I'm told next stop is WA.
How long is it at PB for?
Still slightly puzzled by what it's doing at NX. Demonstrators are normally evaluated with a view to potential orders, but with there seemingly being no funding currently available for the purchase of new hybrids, how / why would a batch of these be acquired?
If it is for the Cap Gemini shuttle I wonder if that company has requested a bus with green credentials for their service and it's being demonstrated to them.
Quote from: Stevo on October 07, 2015, 09:22:10 AM
If it is for the Cap Gemini shuttle I wonder if that company has requested a bus with green credentials for their service and it's being demonstrated to them.
It does seem a bit much from NX's side to purchase a vehicle based on a contractual job. If they wanted a green vehicle, I'm sure could have got a hybrid running the journey instead of purchasing a new bus although taking the problems with the ADL vehicles as of late, may be NX are looking to source vehicles elsewhere ?
Why not try a Borismaster for couple of weeks!
Picture of this on Twitter on some route looks like 45E but is blurry and not good
Is it back at BC now then?
Seen at the Perry Barr roundabout at approx 4pm. Heading towards city. Looks weird from the back.
Quote from: JoNi on October 07, 2015, 11:48:26 AM
Why not try a Borismaster for couple of weeks!
Yes please - we'll have it on the 37 from AG!
I noticed today that the UK registration plate has only been stuck on top of the Irish plate (You can still see the top of it on the front, and the UK plate is not straight), rather than the Irish plate being removed first
Quote from: MW on October 07, 2015, 05:35:11 PM
Looks weird from the back.
So does my missus
-
Are the other doors in operation?
Quote from: Liverpool Street on October 07, 2015, 08:42:45 PM
So does my missus
-
Are the other doors in operation?
Not unless someone in a wheelchair needs to board/alight
Quote from: Tony on October 07, 2015, 08:45:33 PM
Not unless someone in a wheelchair needs to board/alight
The front doors not have a ramp then? Been a while since I've been inside a dual door bus.
Quote from: John on October 07, 2015, 08:42:25 PM
I noticed today that the UK registration plate has only been stuck on top of the Irish plate (You can still see the top of it on the front, and the UK plate is not straight), rather than the Irish plate being removed first
So will it be going back to Dublin in due course ?
Quote from: JoNi on October 07, 2015, 11:48:26 AM
Why not try a Borismaster for couple of weeks!
@JoNi I reckon that a Borismaster is what PE are getting for Christmas.
Quote from: Liverpool Street on October 07, 2015, 08:42:45 PM
So does my missus
It doesn't look too bad from the rear LS.
(The bus, not your missus).
Quote from: Stuharris 6360 on October 07, 2015, 08:52:49 PM
@JoNi I reckon that a Borismaster is what PE are getting for Christmas.
A bus with multiple doors wouldn't be suitable to any Pensnett service, they all serve bus stations where it would be impossible to use the centre door.
Quote from: pndriver on October 07, 2015, 09:12:44 PM
A bus with multiple doors wouldn't be suitable to any Pensnett service, they all serve bus stations where it would be impossible to use the centre door.
So that rules the demonstrator out to then!
Quote from: Mike K on October 07, 2015, 09:05:03 PM
(The bus, not your missus).
So we're agreed. When did you see her?
(My missus, not the bus)
Here are a few shots of the bus https://www.flickr.com/photos/dofartshavelumps/22007552532/in/album-72157632427995441/
Thanks, but I think it's at PB.
Quote from: horsencart on October 08, 2015, 09:48:03 PM
Here are a few shots of the bus https://www.flickr.com/photos/dofartshavelumps/22007552532/in/album-72157632427995441/
So you know what bus they were talking about when the phrase "as ugly as the back end of a bus" was made
And the front end of the latest Gemini is even worse.
Quote from: Stevo on October 09, 2015, 01:18:48 PM
And the front end of the latest Gemini is even worse.
Very angular!!
To be honest, with most of the recent designs, I actually think that the back ends of buses are starting to look better than the front! For example, the Enviro MMC range, Borismaster, Latest Wright Streetdeck, Streetlite etc, they all look better at the rear - although the Borismaster and latest Streetdeck are hideous entirely!
The latest Streetdeck looks like somebody stacked 2 Streetlites on top of each other and then crashed it hard into the London 2012 logo. I prefer the Gemini III and that version of the Streetdeck, they look so much better.
The E200MMC looks like somebody de-roofed an E400MMC then had a head on with a Borismaster.
I do however think the rear looks great on the MMC range and the E200MMC interior is a vast improvement over the old E200 interior and even more so than the previous one before that (pre-ECWVTA).
Does the E200MMC still have the interior windscreen glare issue when driving in the dark with the interior lights on like it's predecessor?
The Borismaster looks like an enlarged VW Camper Van with a Nissan badge on it (LT badge).
I like it, it passed me in broad street this morning
Quote from: pndriver on October 09, 2015, 03:57:30 PM
I like it, it passed me in broad street this morning
Dial 999, this person needs serious help!
Looks like the Gemini 3 Demonstrator is still on Cap Gemini today at PB.