Mercedes-Benz O405G (Volgren)

梅斯特斯平治O405G型 掛接巴士 (傲群) [Config : AB59T]
Following a Volgren-bodied demonstrator bendy bus that entered service in 2000, Trans Island Bus Services followed up in 2001 with a purchase of 20 more units. This batch of O405G articulated buses received the updated CR221 bodywork from Volgren Australia. It was last model to be introduced under its name before it was acquired and rebranded by SMRT.

These buses were powered by the turbocharged Mercedes Benz OM447hLA engine (11,967cc) that is Euro II compliant, and was fitted with either the 4-speed ZF 4HP 500 automatic (TIB1178Y to TIB1187X) or 3-speed Voith DIWA 863.3 automatic transmission (others including TIB1024H).

EDS was from Transit Media (except TIB1024H, which received Lawo Aluma EDS) and underfloor air-conditioning by Konvekta or Hispacold. The two exits of each Volgren O405 unit were fitted with plug doors, and the later batch had larger windows. These buses are usually seen on Woodlands feeder services at the northern section of Singapore.

Earlier than TIBS, in 1996, the other public bus operator Singapore Bus Services (now SBS Transit) acquired a Volgren O405G demonstrator that was also bodied with Volgren CR221, registered as SBS999U. It featured an older front design. It was powered by the older OM447hA engine, and fitted with 4-speed ZF 4HP 590 automatic. Nippondenso supplied the overhead air-conditioning units and the flip-dot EDS was from Mobitec. This trial to test the viability of operating articulated buses was eventually unsuccessful; along with another Volvo B10MA it was eventually sold to New Zealand in 2006.