New red double-deckers unveiled in London
2010-11-12
London will be unveiling a new, fuel-efficient double-decker bus design, based on the original and beloved red Routemasters that were phased out in 2005.
According to the UK Press Association, the new double-deckers will be hitting London streets in 2012. The new bus design is based on the emblematic Routemaster, which were withdrawn from all but a few routes in the city in 2005.
London mayor Boris Johnson said that "This iconic new part of our transport system is not only beautiful, but also has a green heart beating beneath its stylish, swooshing exterior. 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."
The buses will maintain the hop-on, hop-off convenience of the original conductor-and-driver Routemasters, but will be 15% more fuel efficient than existing hybrid buses and a full 40% more efficient than diesel double-deckers in the capital. The new buses are also promised to be quieter and provide passengers with a smoother ride, the news source reports.
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