London bus design news

The Routemaster bus is back, and this time it’s glassy.

Boris Johnson, the Mayor of London, yesterday unveiled the design for the new London bus, and – like the original Routemaster – it features an open platform at the rear, allowing public transportees to hop on and off. Having already paid their full fare, obviously.

Those glass swoops at front and rear follow the two onboard staircases and, according to the bus’s designers, produce a light and airy feel for passengers.

Though details of its engine are yet to be released, Transport For London promises that the new bus will be 15 per cent more efficient than existing hybrid buses, and 40 per cent cleaner than conventional diesel double-deckers.

“This iconic new part of our transport system is not only beautiful, but also has a green heart beating beneath its stylish, swooshing exterior,” says Boris. “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.

“I expect to eventually have hundreds of these on London’s roads, and for cities around the globe to be beside themselves with envy for our stunning red emblem of 21st century London.”

The New Bus for London will be built by Northern Irish firm Wrightbus, and is expected to enter service in 2012