Following many years of buying almost exclusively Leyland Atlanteans, GGPTE purchased a few trial batches of other types of bus in the 1970s. AV1 was the first of a batch of three Ailsa B55s, and was the prototype of that model.
In many respects it is similar to Mk.I Ailsas operated by other companies around this time, however these three for Glasgow featured panoramic windows, unlike the rest.
AV1 was exhibited at the Commercial Motor Show in 1974 before entering service.
The hinged cab door was replaced in 1981 by a sliding design (see photo gallery), This design was fitted to later Glasgow Ailsas as standard from 1982 onwards.
Photographs
Do you have a memory of this vehicle?
Perhaps you travelled on it, saw it at work, or know part of its story we have not yet recorded. Use the comments section below to share what you remember – every detail helps build a richer picture of Glasgow’s transport history.
- Registration
- GGG 300N
- Chassis type
- Ailsa B55-10
- Chassis number
- 74-004
- Body type and seating
- Alexander AV H44/35F
- Body number
- AV4/274/1
- Date new
- March 1975
- Original operator
- Greater Glasgow PTE (AV1)