New Routemaster bus design unveiled
The London mayor Boris Johnson unveils the design for a replacement for the iconic Routemaster double decker bus which is due to begin carrying its first passengers in 2012.
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The design of the new, and inevitably red, bus have been shown off by Mr Johnson.
The bus will have two doors, as well as the iconic open platform allowing passengers to jump on and off where they want. The bus has been designed to be 40 per cent more fuel efficient than existing diesel double-deckers.
The mayor’s office said it will have two staircases, and be manufactured from lightweight materials and glass to produce a “light and airy feel inside”.
Routemaster buses, with their conductors, became a regular site on London’s streets since their introduction in the 1950s.
They were phased out in December 2005, although a couple of heritage routes still operate for tourists.
Critics said the buses were fuel inefficient and inaccessible for disabled people.
Mr Johnson had pledged to bring back an updated bus as part of his mayoral campaign – replacing the criticised bendybus which he said was a danger to cyclists.
He praised the “sheer quality of the technology” behind the new design, which will be built by Wrightbus of Northern Ireland.
“This iconic new part of our transport system is not only beautiful, but also has a green heart beating beneath its stylish, swooshing exterior,” he said.
“It will cut emissions, and give Londoners a bus they can be proud of, complete with cutting edge design, and the freedom of an open platform.”
Opponents have questioned the cost of introducing the new Routemaster, at a time when Transport for London’s finances are under huge strain.
Figures revealed it would cost £7.8m to bring in just five new buses.
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