Karosa ŠM 16,5

Karosa ŠM 16,5
Karosa ŠM 16,5
Overview
Manufacturer	Karosa
Body and chassis
Doors	4, air-operated
Floor type	High-floor
Chassis	semi-self-supporting with frame
Powertrain
Engine	Škoda ML 630 V6 Diesel engine
Power output	152.4 kW (204 hp) (Škoda ML 630)
Transmission	Praga 2-speed automatic
Dimensions
Length	16,500 mm (649.6 in)
Width	2,500 mm (98.4 in)
Height	2,985 mm (117.5 in)
Curb weight	11,800 kg (26,000 lb)
Chronology
Predecessor	Škoda 706 RTO-K
Successor	Karosa B 741

Karosa ŠM 16,5 was a prototype of an urban bus built by bus manufacturer Karosa from the Czech Republic, in 1968. It was succeeded by Karosa B 741 in 1991.

Construction features

Karosa ŠM 16,5 is completely different from its predecessor, Škoda 706 RTO-K, which had engine in the front. The ŠM 16,5 is a model of Karosa Š series. It is derived from Karosa ŠM 11 city bus, and also unified with long-distance coach Karosa ŠD 11. Body is semi-self-supporting with frame and engine with automatic gearbox in the middle, between the wheels. Only rear axle is propulsed. Front axle is independent, middle and rear axle is solid. All axles are mounted on air suspension. On the right side are four folding doors (first and last are narrower than middle doors). Inside are used leatherette seats. Driver's cab is not separated from the rest of the vehicle. In the rear, there is room for a pram or wheelchair.

Production and operation

The first prototype was built in 1968. 15 more buses were built after that. Later production was halted because of a decision to import Ikarus 280 buses. The last ŠM 16,5 buses were withdrawn in the 1980s.