B 2
Photo: R.G.Thompson

The first batch (1 - 9) was introduced in June,1942.   The K5G chassis was fitted with a 5 cylinder Gardner diesel engine, rated at 36.5 h.p. The wartime version of the chassis was considerably heavier than usual owing to the wartime embargo on aluminium and its alloys. Transmission was by normal clutch and gearbox. Bodies of the wartime standard type were by Park Royal Coachworks Ltd. They were sent to Hanwell garage (HW) to work on Route 97.

Second batch (10-29) entered service at the end of 1945, with K6A (W3) chassis fitted with an AEC 6 cylinder diesel engine. Bodywork was by Duple Motor Bodies Ltd. The radiator was modified in shape from that of the K5G in that it was lowered to give better all-round visibility for the driver. It had a distinct taper from top to bottom. Fuel feed was by autovac with its square tank visible beside the bonnet.