Hi Graham
Yup, half cab is best. Looking at the artist's impression, unless the engine is installed on modular slide out rails (try getting that to deal with the torque), how would the bonnet be raised to perform basic service work?
If the windshield were removable for such eventualities, it would take four strong folk to lift it out. Then, where would it be stored? Perhaps it could swing upwards in some way?
I am sure the designers have anticipated this. Perhaps the windshield is, in fact, in more then one piece or perhaps the reciprocating power delivery module (engine) is accessible from inside the lower saloon. And for the more major work, the simplest solution may be to lift the front of the bus and roll the engine/front axle assembly (boat) out from underneath. In which case, the platform will need to be higher. As we who own/drive RMs know, the platform height in itself is a stroke of genius because it is low enough to be comfortable for most people but high enough to allow the bus to traverse pretty uneven ground without damage.
Either way, if they could build a classic long-lasting vehicle in the 1950's it clearly is possible now - if the parties involved are willing.
One other observation, the platform grab rails look either absent or not in the pattern of the existing RM. Having looked at piccies of platform buses from before/during/post WWII the pattern of these and their location seems to be well established and, presumably, for some very good reasons. I am thinking, in particular, of the distinctive shape of the grab rails on the lhs of the platform (on boarding), the monkey pole and the rhs grab rail.
Cheers!
J
