Satisified with the results after evaluating the MAN NL323F demonstrator, SMRT Buses awarded the tender of 200 new buses to ST Kinetics delivering the MAN NL323F chassis. However, the bodywork for the production units was supplied by Gemilang Coachworks from Malaysia.

Mechanically, the configuration of the production MAN NL323F (coded A22) is similar. Its Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) and PM-Kat filter technology (the latter developed by MAN) does away the need for additives in exhaust treatment, while still able to meet the Euro V emission standards. It is powered by the MAN D2066LUH-32 diesel engine (10,518cc) and fitted with 6-speed ZF Ecolife 6AP 1700B automatic transmission.

The bodywork supplied by Gemilang gave the production batch NL323Fs a very different appearance. The exterior design was roughly based on the integral 'Lion's City Hybrid' seen in European countries, but it was neither named as such nor was it a electric-hybrid bus. The unique protruding roof design, which covered the Denso overhead air-conditioning pod, has led to a number of hilarious nicknames given by both the public and bus enthusiasts.

EDS was supplied by Mobitec, which included additional route details on the boarding side of the bus. The interior configuration and design was fully low-floor and similar to the demonstrator NL323F; sliding plug-doors were fitted at the exit for additional safety.

A follow-up tender of 200 new buses was also awarded to ST Kinetics, dubbed as Batch 2. Deliveries of Batch 2 A22s to SMRT Buses began in January 2013, with technical specifications similar to Batch 1 and minor updates to the interior. Later Batch 2 A22s have a few seats removed so as to create additional standing space at the front and rear of the interior. Batch Two units were registered SMB1301K to SMB1420A.