Operational Review
ISO 9002 is an internationally recognised and widely-applied quality management assurance standard. In addition to rationalising the Company's systems and procedures, ISO 9002 can also help to improve efficiency, reduce costs, create a better public image
and sharpen our competitive edge.
CONTACTLESS SMART CARD PROJECT
The Company, together with other major public transport operators in Hong Kong, will introduce a common "Smart Card" fare ticket which can be used on the services provided by all of the participating operators. A central body has been formed by the participating operators and the tender for the supply of equipment and services has been awarded.
Detailed design, production and installation work are on-going and a trial of the system will start at the end of 1995. Initially the Company will introduce the Smart Card on a few routes. If successful, it is intended that the system will be gradually extended to all KMB
services.
Passengers will benefit from the introduction of the Smart Card as it is a more convenient method of fare payment. Participation in the project signifies the Company's commitment to introduce new technology to improve services to customers. The Company is conducting a detailed study on the extension of the application of the Smart Card to KMB's entire network and on the implications of such a scheme on network structure and fares policy.
ENVIRONMENTAL ASPECTS OF BUS OPERATION
Engines designed and manufactured to the latest European exhaust emission standards (Euro 1) were introduced during 1994 and all new vehicle orders will include this requirement.
Consideration is also being given to the fitting of catalytic converters and particulate traps on older vehicles to reduce emission levels. Tests were carried out earlier this year on one system but the results were not satisfactory. Work continues on this project as reduction of exhaust emission is of great importance.
FEASIBILITY OF NATURAL GAS VEHICLE
The study has continued during the year to assess whether natural gas could be used to power a full sized double-deck bus.
The most promising arrangement is liquid natural gas (LNG) as it presents the most space efficient system and thus allows the vehicle to carry a satisfactory fuel load. Other systems, including compressed natural gas (CNG) and liquid petroleum gas (LPG), have not yet been discarded.
The Kowloon Motor Bus Company (1933) Limited.
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