On 1st September 1998, NWFB began to operate 80 franchised bus routes which were previously operated by China Motor Bus. NWFB purchased all air-conditioned buses owned by CMB, except 8 Dennis Darts (CX1-8) and 2 new Volvo Olympians (VA62 and 64). The 8 Dennis Darts served on the non-franchised routes of CMB, while the 2 Volvo Olympians had stayed on the roof of CMB's Chai Wan Depot for more than two years.
Then, in March 2001, Citybus rented CMB's Chai Wan Depot for the storage of buses. And at the same time, as CMB found that the 8 Dennis Darts were not enough for operating its shuttle bus routes while Citybus was forced to withdraw many of its single-deckers. Because of this, the two bus operators made a contract to exchange buses.
So Citybus sold a Volvo B6LE (1355) to CMB and received VA62 and 64. VA62 and 64 were then driven to Siu Ho Wan Depot for a COR test, and were repainted in the Citybus livery in the new painting machine there. After that, Citybus installed continuous lights in the compartment and Lite Vision destination displays. These two buses re-entered service on 5th May 2001 and they have served many different routes. Today they are usually found on route 85.
Photos of 1041 and 1042 are available. Please click the following images for an enlarged version.
| 1041 You can clearly see the continuous lights in the compartment. Date: 18/01/2002 |
| 1042 In this photo, you can see how bright the Lite Vision displays, the headlights and the continuous lights in the compartment are. Date: 18/01/2002 |
| This photo shows 1042 turning right into the Island Resort bus terminus. Date: 18/01/2002 |
| Nothing has changed in the interior of 1042 between CMB and Citybus era, except the new stickers placed by
Citybus and the continuous lights which are extremely elegant. Date: 18/01/2002 |
| CMB Volvo Olympians in this batch (VA51-64) are special for their2+2 seats and a handle placed here. Date: 18/01/2002 |