Karosa ŠM 11


Karosa ŠM 11 is an urban bus produced by bus manufacturer Karosa from the Czech Republic, in the years of 1965 to 1981. It was succeeded by Karosa B 731 in 1981.

Construction features

Karosa ŠM 11 is completely different from its predecessor, Škoda 706 RTO, which had engine in front and two doors.
ŠM 11 is model of Karosa Š series. It is derived from Karosa ŠL 11 intercity 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, rear axle is solid. All axles are mounted on air suspension. On the right side are three folding doors. Inside are used leatherette seats. Drivers cab is not separated from the rest of the vehicle. In the rear part is room for a pram or wheelchair.

Production and operation

In 1965 started serial production, which continued until 1981.
ŠM 11 are not operated in public transport anymore, but many of them are operated as historical vehicles. Last Karosa ŠM 11 in Prague was retired in 1987, and last ŠM 11 in Czech Republic was retired in 1994 in Opava.
About 9900 of Karosa ŠM 11 was made during its production.
Some buses were also exported to Albania, Bulgaria, Hungary, Mongolia, Poland and Romania

Historical vehicles

Slovakia: