...Why First are bothering to repaint these in Barbie livery is beyond me........
The powercars are repainted as part of an 'F' exam at Laira. This has always been the case. Work on Valenta powercars doesnt just stop because powercars are being re-engined with MTUs! Some have gotta last out until late next year before they are all done.
I would assume that:
1)) First proably have a large stock of pink/purple paint, so why the heck not use it!
2) They want to maintain a smart image, regardless of which genration of livery it is
3) I dont reckon that First want their 'new' image on smokey, noisey old Valentas.
Also, when the HST fleet was initally painted from 'Fag packet' to Barbie, certain powercars where rushed because Moir Lockheed visited at one point and was abit shocked and irritated that half his HST fleet was still ruinning around in Green at that point.
As a result, we got abit of a kick up the arse from Aberdeen and hence, some powercars where 'rushed' through, and only given quick paint (If lucky) or vynl jobs.
Theres still a few of these poorly stickered P/Cs about, cant remember specific numbers, but look for the seams on the bodysides/cabs!
So the thinking is that either these P/Cs will get an 'F' and a nice shiney new paint job, or get towed up to Brush for MTUing. Either way suits.