New fleet of innovative high spec buses to be introduced on key London route
A fleet of new, higher specification all-electric buses is being introduced on a key London bus route to encourage even more people back on to public transport as London recovers from the pandemic.
Transport for London (TfL) is introducing new buses to the north-south route 63, which goes from Honor Oak to King’s Cross, that have a range of innovative features aimed at making them an even more attractive, green alternative to the car.
The first buses came into service in December, with the whole route set to be transformed in the coming weeks.
The new route 63 buses were manufactured by ADL, the country’s largest bus and coach manufacturer, in Scarborough.
The new buses feature USB chargers and mobile phone holders in the seats so that passengers can work or relax more easily as they travel.
They have a more open feel – with a skylight on the upper deck, larger rear window, and handles on the backs of seats rather than vertical poles for an unobstructed view, and high back seats throughout.
New covers for the priority seats, with a contrasting colour scheme, help differentiate them from other seats for passengers who are less able to stand. The vehicles also have a larger wheelchair and buggy area.
CCTV cameras have also been upgraded to provide higher-definition footage, making travel even more safe and secure.
New digital signage on board the buses gives passengers up-to-date information, including the time to the next stop, disruptions, and service updates for Tube and Overground services.
Later in the year, the route will new real time information screens at many bus stops.
The new modern buses were first developed around two years ago, and are a sign of what the future of buses could be if the Government agrees a long-term funding deal with TfL.
But without a deal, the less green and increasingly ageing bus fleet will have to remain on the roads.
Pictured: Electric concept bus Enviro 400 BYD on Route 63. Skylight. Photo: Eleanor Bentall
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