More Green Buses to Acton Green

London United, along with London Sovereign (RATP London), have introduced a new fleet numbering system for their fleet. This adds extra numbers to denote what the fleet code already does anyway, to help with engineering (this batch seems to have an extra "451" added before its presumed fleetnumber). Some of the first buses to display the new fleet numbers are the new Volvo B5LHs for Route 94 at Shepherd's Bush (S).

London United VH45156 on Route 94, Acton Green (© Aubrey)

Under the old system, this VH would be called VH56. Initially, some of these buses were delivered with their old fleet numbers.
This batch is the first of the Gemini 3s with the new style front, meaning that the Hounslow Heath hybrids will be a one-off with the old style front. It is anticipated that this type will be ordered for future use with London United, including Route 85 (which the buses are already being delivered).


London United VH45158 on Route 94, Acton Green (© Aubrey)

The blinds are however not white, nor to the new standard. As they are new buses ordered not against a new contract but rather the existing 94 contract, there is no regulation stating that the blinds need to be white on black, nor in the new format.


London United VH45157 on Route 94, Acton Green (© Aubrey)

This is the second batch of hybrid buses for Route 94, after the first batch doesn't cover the whole PVR of the 94. This replaces the rest of the TLAs that were on the route. However, some Tridents still stray onto the route.


London United VH45155 on Route 94, Notting Hill Gate (© Aubrey)

It also has the new London United interior, complete with new moquette. The grey floors as seen in the older VHs are aimed towards this new moquette. It is assumed amongst drivers that if/when the Hammersmith Bridge works occur, the 72 will gain similar buses.


London United VH45159 on Route 94 passes Metroline VWH2017 on Route 7, Oxford Street (© Aubrey)

This photo shows the comparison between the old and new fronts of Gemini 3. This batch of Gemini 3 also exhibits more red amongst the headlamp clusters and the window surrounds compared to older batches.


London United VH45160 on Route 94, Acton Green (© Aubrey)

Overall, these buses seem to be a decent ride, and shift like a usual Volvo B5LH. After many uses of the Gemini 3 upper deck, it does not seem as claustrophobic as before, even with the smaller windows.