KL Hop On Hop Off (KL HOHO) has become the first transport operator in Malaysia to place MAN’s Euro VI-specification diesel buses into sightseeing service, marking a notable step forward for low-emission public transport ahead of the country’s tourism recovery push.
Operated by Elang Wah Sdn Bhd (EWSB), the new fleet comprises six custom-built MAN open-top double-deck buses, which were handed over earlier this year by MAN Truck & Bus (M) Sdn Bhd (MAN Malaysia) following completion by local bodybuilder Gemilang Coachwork Sdn Bhd in Senai, Johor.
One completed unit was also showcased publicly at MATTA Fair 2025, where it drew strong interest from visitors, highlighting growing awareness of cleaner commercial vehicle technologies.
Euro VI Powertrain with City-focused Drivability
The colourful sightseeing buses feature lightweight aluminium alloy bodies and a fully retractable top-deck cover, customised specifically for Kuala Lumpur’s urban operating conditions.
They are built on the MAN RR3 bus chassis and powered by MAN’s 12.4-litre D26 Euro VI diesel engine, producing 440 hp and 2,250 Nm of torque. Power is delivered via a ZF EcoLife 2 six-speed automatic transmission, designed for start-stop city bus operations.
Further, the gearbox’s weight-optimised design, updated torsional damper and advanced software help with smoother shifts, quieter operation and improved fuel efficiency—key requirements for daily urban sightseeing routes where comfort will help enhance the ride experience.
Full Safety Suite as Standard
The 56-seater buses are equipped with a comprehensive range of safety systems, including:
Electronic Braking System (EBS)
Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS)
Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR) traction control
Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
Industry-first Move Towards Euro VI
MAN Malaysia Managing Director Marc Appelt praised EWSB for adopting Euro VI technology ahead of local regulatory requirements.
“The decision to invest in Euro VI buses when the Malaysian market 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 uses less fuel which results in lower costs,” he said.
Appelt also highlighted MAN Malaysia’s aftersales readiness to support fleet 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 to vehicles that can come in after working hours and be ready for collection in the morning.”
From left: Elang Wah Sdn Bhd CEO Syed Azhar Syed Nadzir, MAN Malaysia Head of Bus Anvar Karimov & MD Marc Appelt.
Fleet Renewal Ahead of Visit Malaysia Year 2026
EWSB founder and Chief Executive Officer Tuan Syed Azhar Syed Nadzir said the purchase marked the company’s first MAN bus acquisition in two decades, driven by the need to refresh its fleet ahead of Visit Malaysia Year 2026.
“The team at MAN was extremely responsive and able to deliver the right chassis and 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.
The Euro VI MAN buses have since been commissioned into KL HOHO service, with EWSB confirming that it is evaluating further fleet additions by the second quarter of 2026 as part of a broader replacement programme in anticipation of higher tourist volumes.
CarTok Editor’s Note: While Malaysia is still transitioning beyond Euro V standards, KL HOHO’s deployment of Euro VI buses highlights how some operators are already preparing for stricter emissions and higher tourism demand as the country gears up for Visit Malaysia Year 2026.
