Malaysia’s KL Hop On Hop Off operator EWSB receives six MAN Euro VI buses, setting a new benchmark in sustainable sightseeing transport.
Choosing MAN Euro VI Buses Demonstrates EWSB’s Far-Sightedness
Elang Wah Sdn Bhd (EWSB), which operates the award-winning KL Hop On Hop Off (KL HOHO) open-top double-deck sightseeing buses, has become the first transport operator in Malaysia to operate buses built on MAN’s Euro VI-specification bus chassis.
MAN Truck & Bus (M) Sdn Bhd (MAN Malaysia) officially handed over six units of the custom-built MAN buses to EWSB at Gemilang Coachwork Sdn Bhd in Senai, Johor, recently. One completed unit, which was displayed at the recent MATTA Fair 2025 in Kuala Lumpur, received an overwhelming response from visitors.
The colourful sightseeing buses, with lightweight aluminium alloy bodies and a fully retractable cover on the top deck customised by Gemilang Coachwork, are built on the proven MAN RR3 bus chassis and powered by MAN’s high-performance Euro VI-specification D26 engine with a maximum power output of 440 hp and 2,250 Nm of torque.
The 12.4-litre MAN engine is mated to a ZF EcoLife 2 6-speed automatic gearbox. The next-generation gearbox is highly suitable for start-stop city bus applications. Its weight-optimised and robust design delivers an excellent and smooth driving experience through fast and comfortable gearshifts. It also features a new torsional damper and advanced software functions that help provide quieter operation while improving overall fuel efficiency.
All the 56-seater buses are equipped with advanced safety features such as the Electronic Braking System (EBS), Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR) traction control system, Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Programme (ESP), and Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).
Speaking at the event, MAN Malaysia Managing Director Marc Appelt commended EWSB for its decision to choose MAN’s proven bus chassis and become the pioneering customer of the low-emission Euro VI diesel engine in Malaysia.
“The decision to invest in Euro VI buses when Malaysia is still in the early stages of adopting Euro V standards clearly demonstrates EWSB’s far-sightedness, industry leadership and commitment to sustainability. Euro VI is the current standard for all new heavy vehicle registrations in Europe. Aside from lower emissions of harmful gases, Euro VI diesel engines offer more power to boost operational efficiency but use less fuel, which results in lower costs,” he said.
Appelt also reiterated MAN Malaysia’s readiness to provide EWSB with world-class aftersales support to keep the new MAN Euro VI buses operating with optimum uptime.
“Our back-end is highly digitised, with an easy and convenient MAN Online Service Booking system to secure repair and maintenance appointments, while our Mobile24 breakdown service provides round-the-clock, hassle-free roadside assistance support in emergency situations. Our Shah Alam service centre is open until 2.00 am to cater for vehicles that can come in after working hours and be ready for collection in the morning,” he added.
EWSB founder and Chief Executive Officer Syed Azhar Syed Nadzir said the decision to purchase MAN buses for the first time in 20 years was down to MAN Malaysia’s ability to meet its urgent needs ahead of Visit Malaysia Year 2026.
“The team at MAN was extremely responsive and able to deliver the right chassis. They worked closely with Gemilang, which is a certified manufacturing partner of MAN, to ensure that the new buses were delivered in just five months despite the high level of customisation required. Prior to the purchase decision, we sought the advice of our peers in the transport industry and also talked to various experienced bus drivers. They had no hesitation in recommending MAN for its reliability, safety, power and comfort,” he said.
EWSB’s new MAN buses are scheduled to be commissioned into KL HOHO service by mid-September. The company is already looking into acquiring more new units as fleet replacements by the second quarter of 2026 in anticipation of the influx of tourists.
