EIR - New Routemaster [May 2026]

To: [email protected] 

Work Experience

To: [email protected]
 

Retrofitting of Route Master busses and potential savings financially and to the environment

Hello Mr Khan

I hope this e-mail finds you well
 

Apologies for the unsolicited e-mail. I am writing to you with regards to a potential saving we are able to show you/TFL with regards to the renewal / replacement costs of the New Routemaster busses.
 

We have designed and produced an electric drive system which is suitable for commercial vehicles and public service vehicles.
The system we have designed and manufactured is complete ‘from the pedal to the wheel’ and is inclusive of batteries, inverters, drive axles and vehicle control software.
 

We believe that we could show TFL a potential saving of between more than £300 Million if we were to retro fit our systems to your current fleet, rather than completely renew the busses.
Not only would retrofitting the current vehicles show a significant saving against replacing them, it would also be beneficial to the environment.
 

I have attached a brief Power Point presentation which gives a simple overview of our system. You will see that the design is such that we are able to offer speeds of up to 90 km/h (where permissible) and that the vehicle will be able to cover all suitable road conditions and gradients.
 

I have listed the key advantages below:

• Potential savings of up to £300 million
• More environmentally effective than replacing the current fleet
• Able to cover all the current road conditions and routes
• Fully integrated system from ‘pedal to wheel’.
• System designed to operate on vehicles of a greater GVW making it more efficient on lower GVW vehicles
• Estimated range between charges approximately 250 miles (400 km)

If possible, my colleague and I would like to arrange to come and see you and/or your representatives to give you a more detailed presentation of the system and then invite you to come and see our demonstration vehicle.

To: [email protected]

New Routemaster by Heatherwick Studio - please keep the look!

Whilst I fully support making buses emission-free, efficient and usable beyond 2030, the mishmash of different designs and different red buses on the streets of London is horrible, uninspired and ugly.
 

The "New Routemaster" designed by the Heatherwick Studio - apart from some of the faults - was a beautiful addition to the streets of London.
 

Can you please at least consider how to keep the stunning shell and design of that bus and begin to unify the look of the entire fleet across London? 

Instead of just chucking out all that design work - can we please look into saving some of the iconic features it aimed to preserve? 

The Heatherwick Studio had come up with something worthy of perfecting. I get that it might have started during another unmentionable Mayor's term - but the look of that design is good. 

Please try to keep the essence of that design instead of continuing with the horrible block designs from other producers that are all over the place. Surely we can save that vision (forget Boris), at least do something the money invested in that design and make London buses something to be proud of - both in the way they look and the way they environmentally perform.

To: [email protected]

Bus Designs

I'm disappointed with the recent news regarding the end of the New Routemaster bus, as reported by a journalist from ITV London News.

 https://twitter.com/simonharrisitv/status/1787816432794759230 

[Reg 13 Personal information], and the New Routemaster is my favourite bus because it has unique design features that are suitable for my needs. I can only travel on bus routes that are served by New Routemaster buses. 

The New Routemaster features include: 

• Exterior design - as they look friendly and exciting. 
• Interior design - the colour scheme is more calm, including lighting. 
• Seat moquette - provides stronger branding. 
• Lighting - much better than the conventional buses. 
• Windows next to the stairs - increases natural daylight.
• Three doors and two stairs - increases space inside the bus and make it easier to exit from the top deck. 

The three doors and two stairs are beneficial for wheelchair users, as people can exit the bus by using the third door while the wheelchair ramp is being deployed by the middle doors. 

As for the interior design, buses have a different colour scheme, which is too frantic and does not have London bus branding. 

I found out that in Greater Manchester, their Bee Network has a set interior design for all franchised bus services. It's on pages 40, 41 and 42 of the Bee Network bus liveries document.

 https://www.whatdotheyknow.com/request/bus_vehicle_specifications_brand…;

I recommend that all new electric buses should contain all the design features from the New Routemaster as standard because they are much more helpful and accessible than conventional buses. I'm not saying that the conductor and open platform should be reinstated because I know they are obsolete due to the use of Oyster and contactless payments. 

One blogger has researched and compiled information from the consultation reports and freedom of information requests stating the popularity of the New Routemaster design, which includes complaints about poor bus design. This is a very useful blog post to take note of. 

https://clondoner92.blogspot.com/2024/01/transport-for-londons-2023-con…;

I know that you are very busy and there's no need to reply, but I'd be very grateful if you can direct TfL to require bus manufacturers to improve their bus designs by using the design features from the New Routemaster as standard for all new electric buses.

To: [email protected]
 

New Routemasters

Dear Mayor of London Sadiq Khan and Deputy Mayor Seb Dance I'm disappointed that you have considered phasing out New Routemasters.

https://www.itv.com/news/london/2024-05-08/mayor-signals-the-end-of-the…;

The New Routemasters are my favourite bus because they have a friendly design that provides the best attraction to your services. By the way, I'm no fan of the previous Mayor and Prime Minister Boris Johnson. 

I dislike the standard conventional buses because they are badly designed, the staircase area is too dark because the windows next to them are missing, the interior colour scheme is confusing because many buses have their own colours, and the same applies to the moquette on seats. 

There's one blogger who went through the TFL consultation reports and discovered a number of requests for New Routemaster buses because of the design, which attracts them to travel by bus.

 https://clondoner92.blogspot.com/2024/01/transport-for-londons-2023-con…;

[Regulation 13 Personal information], finds the New Routemaster bus to be more convenient because the third door and second stairs at the back allow customers to exit the bus while she waits for the wheelchair ramp at the middle doors. Removing the New Routemaster buses will be catastrophic to her journey. 

In Singapore, they have double deck buses with three doors and two staircases, which help improve accessibility and convenience for passengers.

https://www.lta.gov.sg/content/ltagov/en/who_we_are/statistics_and_publ…;

Take note of the London Taxi, which is manufactured by LEVC; they use an iconic design to make the London Taxi service very unique. 

I'd also mention there are buses throughout the UK that use the design features of the New Routemaster; it's unfair for London to fall behind! Therefore, you should require all bus manufacturers to use the New Routemaster design as standard for all new zero-emission buses in London, including three doors and two staircases. 

I hope my message helps improve the bus fleet in London.

To: [email protected]
 

Disappointed with the poor designs of electric buses in London

I'm writing to complain about the design of the electric buses in London. 

The design of the electric buses is very poor, and it does not look iconic at all. 

They have the wrong type of colour scheme inside the bus, including the moquette on seats, and there are unique features from the New Routemaster that are missing: a glazed staircase, a third door, and a second staircase at the back. 

The NRM is a major brand in London because of their unique design, including the interior design. They are more accessible with three doors and two stairs. 

The NRM is seen in multiple movies and on television, which helps improve the image of London along with the bus services. 

https://www.imcdb.org/vehicles.php?make=Wright&model=New+Routemaster&mo…

I notice in other parts of the UK, there are buses with similar design features as the NRM, such as the staircase glazing. Therefore, London should be the same for all new electric buses. 

Back in 2016, the Belfast Telegraph stated that Sadiq Khan would introduce a moratorium on buying NRMs.

https://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/business/hydrogen-powered-wrightbus-…;

If you take a read of this blog post, the author has researched through TfL's consultation reports and freedom of information requests, which reveals popular demand for more NRMs.

 https://clondoner92.blogspot.com/2024/01/transport-for-londons-2023-con…;

My suggestion is, all new electric buses shall contain the NRM design by Heatherwick Studios or design features of the NRM as standard. This will help improve customer experience and accessibility to encourage people to travel by bus, which is vital to tackling climate change. 

The electric London taxi by LEVC uses an iconic design based on their predecessor models, then why not buses for London? 

I'm not expecting a response, but I'd be grateful for you to take note of my suggestions.

To: [email protected]
 

Re: Customer query (Fwd from TfL Customer services)

Can you please explain why you have approved a deal with the Go-Ahead Group to procurement 100 Chinese made busses from BYD, when there are perfectly good UK based manufacturers that have supplied TfL for years?

I welcome the commitment to move to zero emission busses, but I have several questions about this latest deal, which even now excludes Alexander Dennis which at least previously had a manufacturing partnership with BYD providing jobs in the UK.
 

What assessment was done to assess the environmental impact of importing busses from China as opposed to local manufacture?
 

Was a social impact study undertaken to consider the adverse impacts on those local communities around UK based bus manufacturers that would not be benefitting from this work?
 

Press reports state that BYD quoted a per-bus price that was around £100,000 cheaper than any competitors. As this is a significant amount less, what guarantees are in place to ensure that BYD will keep to this figure and have not deliberately under-priced their offer so as to win the contract?
 

What independent assurance have you received that BYD has not undertaken unethical practices including forced labour, arbitrary detention and trafficking of Uyghur and other minority workers?
 

How can it be considered good value for the taxpayer, which has already invested significant sums in the new Routemaster, for these busses to be retired early when they still have plenty of life left?

To: [email protected]
 

Proposal for Reviving the New Routemaster Project with Zero-Emission Electric Buses

Dear Mayor of London Sadiq Khan 

I hope this email finds you in good spirits. I am writing to you as a concerned citizen and an advocate for sustainable public transport in London. I would like to discuss the potential revival of the New Routemaster (NRM) project and propose the acquisition of thousands of zero-emission electric versions of this iconic bus design.

The New Routemaster has become a beloved symbol of London, representing not only the city’s rich history but also its forward-thinking approach to public transport. Since its introduction, the NRM has garnered immense popularity among both residents and tourists. Its unique design, characterised by its stylish curves and modern features, sets it apart from standard bus models, which often appear boxy and uninspired. The aesthetic appeal of the NRM contributes to a more pleasant urban environment, enhancing the overall experience of travelling through our vibrant city. 

One of the standout features of the NRM is its three-door layout and dual staircases, which significantly improve accessibility and convenience. This design allows for quicker boarding and exiting, reducing wait times at bus stops and making public transport more efficient. In a city as busy as London, where time is of the essence, these enhancements are crucial for encouraging more people to use public transport rather than relying on private vehicles. 

Moreover, the NRM has made a significant impact in popular culture, appearing in numerous films and television shows, including the heartwarming Paddington movie and the Top Gear television series. This visibility not only reinforces the NRM's status as an emblem of London but also attracts tourists who wish to experience a piece of the city’s heritage. The demand for more New Routemasters is evident, as many Londoners express their preference for this model over standard buses. The public's enthusiasm for the NRM highlights the need for a larger fleet to meet the growing demand. 

In addition to its cultural significance, the NRM has played a vital role in boosting London's economy. By providing an efficient and attractive mode of public transport, the NRM encourages more people to travel into the city, supporting local businesses and tourism. Increased foot traffic in commercial areas leads to higher sales for shops, restaurants, and attractions, contributing to the overall economic vitality of London. The NRM not only serves as a means of transportation but also as a catalyst for economic growth, creating jobs and fostering community development. 

As we face the pressing challenges of climate change and urban air pollution, it is imperative that we transition to more sustainable public transport solutions. Investing in a fleet of zero-emission electric New Routemasters would not only preserve the aesthetic and functional advantages of this design but also align with London’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint. Electric buses are a vital step towards achieving cleaner air and a healthier environment for all Londoners. 

Additionally, the NRM's iconic status makes it a perfect candidate for promoting public transport usage through social media. Encouraging Londoners and visitors to take photos with the NRM and share them online can create a buzz around public transport as a viable and attractive alternative to private car use. This grassroots promotion can help raise awareness about the importance of public transport in tackling climate change, inspiring more people to consider sustainable travel options. 

To summarise, here are several key reasons why it is vital to relaunch the New rotNew Routemaster project:

1. Cultural Icon: The NRM is a symbol of London, enhancing the city’s identity and attracting tourists. 
2. Public Demand: There is a strong preference among Londoners for the NRM over standard bus designs, indicating a clear demand for more of these buses. 
3. Economic Boost: The NRM supports local businesses by increasing foot traffic in commercial areas, contributing to economic growth. 
4. Accessibility and Efficiency: The three-door layout and dual staircases improve accessibility and reduce dwell times at bus stops, making public transport more user-friendly. 
5. Sustainability: Transitioning to zero-emission electric NRMs aligns with London’s environmental goals and helps combat air pollution. 
6. Social Media Promotion: The NRM’s iconic status can be leveraged to promote public transport usage through social media, encouraging more sustainable travel choices among residents and visitors. 
7. Leadership in Innovation: Investing in electric NRMs positions London as a leader in sustainable transport innovation.

To: [email protected]
 

Revitalising London's Icon: The Case for More New Routemaster Buses

Dear Mayor of London Sadiq Khan 

I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to discuss an urgent matter regarding London’s public transport system, specifically the increasing demand for the New Routemaster buses and the implications of their limited procurement. 

Passenger Preferences Feedback from Transport for London (TfL) reveals a clear and growing preference among passengers for the New Routemaster buses over newer electric bus models. Between December 2021 and April 2022, TfL received a notable number of complaints regarding bus route 63, alongside a substantial number of comments praising the design and functionality of the New Routemaster. Passengers have highlighted the unique advantages offered by these vehicles, particularly their three doors and two staircases. These features significantly enhance the boarding and exiting process, allowing for smoother passenger flow and reducing congestion, especially during peak travel times. 

Moreover, the complaints associated with other routes further illustrate a widespread desire for the attributes inherent to the New Routemaster. Many passengers have expressed frustration with the design and layout of newer models of electric buses, which lack the accessibility and convenience that the New Routemaster provides. This feedback not only signals a preference for the New Routemaster but also reflects a broader concern for the quality and usability of our public transport system.

Design and Accessibility Concerns 

The ongoing dissatisfaction expressed by passengers on routes such as U5 regarding the design and layout of newer electric buses emphasises a compelling need for features that the New Routemaster delivers. In numerous instances, feedback has pointed to issues with accessibility and the overall user experience of newer models. Many passengers have reported that the current buses do not meet their needs, particularly for vulnerable populations, such as the elderly and those with disabilities. 

The New Routemaster, with its thoughtful design, significantly improves accessibility through its three-door configuration and dual staircases. These elements not only make it easier for passengers to board and disembark but also enhance safety by reducing wait times at stops. It is clear that investing in the New Routemaster aligns with the fundamental goal of ensuring an inclusive and efficient public transport system for all Londoners. 

The New Routemaster as a London Landmark 

The New Routemaster is more than just a bus; it is a cultural icon that represents the essence of London. It combines modern engineering with classic design, offering a unique aesthetic that is recognised globally. Recent consultations have shown a strong public desire to retain and expand Routemaster services throughout the city. The overwhelming support for these vehicles reflects their significance not only as a mode of transport but also as a symbol of London’s heritage and innovation. 

By increasing the procurement of New Routemaster buses in zero-emission, we would be reaffirming our commitment to preserving this iconic symbol of London while simultaneously addressing the practical needs of our residents. 

Embracing Sustainability

As London strives to become a greener city, it is essential to integrate zero-emission technology into our public transport fleet. Numerous consultations have indicated robust public support for the procurement of zero-emission New Routemaster buses. This initiative would not only enhance the quality of public transport but also demonstrate our commitment to environmental sustainability and improving air quality in London. 

By prioritising the purchase of zero-emission New Routemasters, we can lead by example, showcasing how innovation can work hand in hand with sustainability. This is an opportunity to modernise our fleet while ensuring that we honour the legacy of the Routemaster.

Risks of Inaction 

Neglecting to increase the procurement of New Routemaster buses could have significant repercussions for public perception of TfL. The dissatisfaction with current bus offerings, particularly among regular commuters, poses a risk of alienating a substantial segment of our ridership. By failing to respond to passenger needs and preferences, we risk diminishing the public’s trust and confidence in our transportation system. 

In an era where many cities are reimagining their public transport networks, it is imperative that we stay attuned to the desires and concerns of our residents. The ongoing feedback regarding bus design underscores the urgency for action in this regard. 

Conclusion 

In conclusion, I urge you to consider advocating for the increased procurement of New Routemaster buses, particularly in zero-emission. This initiative would not only address the clear passenger preferences expressed in recent feedback but also reinforce the iconic status of London’s public transport system while aligning with our sustainability objectives. Thank you for your attention to this pressing matter. I look forward to your thoughts and potential actions on this crucial issue, which has the potential to significantly enhance the public transportation experience for all Londoners.

To: [email protected]
 

This message concerns the inaccessibility and utilitarian design of the new double-deck electric buses, which are difficult for wheelchair users to enter and exit, compared to the more accessible and stylish New Routemaster

This message concerns the inaccessibility and utilitarian design of the new double-deck electric buses, which are difficult for wheelchair users to enter and exit, compared to the more accessible and stylish New Routemaster. 

Message details 

I am writing to express my concerns regarding the design of the new double-deck electric buses recently introduced by Transport for London (TfL). Reg 13 Personal information], I find these buses to be extremely difficult to access. With only two doors and one staircase, entering and exiting the bus is not only inconvenient but often impossible for people with mobility challenges. This design fails to provide adequate accessibility for disabled passengers, and I believe it is a significant step backwards compared to previous bus designs.

In contrast, the New Routemaster buses offer superior accessibility. These buses feature three doors and two staircases, which allow passengers to enter and exit with much greater ease. As a wheelchair user, I can access the middle door, while passengers can exit via the rear doors and second staircase. This design provides not only better accessibility but also more space for passengers, making for a smoother and safer experience overall.

Beyond accessibility, the New Routemaster also boasts a far more stylish design. Both its exterior and interior are more appealing, offering a modern yet timeless look that enhances the overall experience for all passengers. The current double-deck electric buses, by comparison, are overly utilitarian, lacking the thoughtful design features that make the New Routemaster such a superior option.

I have reviewed TfL’s Bus Action Plan, and I am disappointed to note that there is no mention of using the New Routemaster design to improve accessibility and customer satisfaction. It is clear that these new buses are not fully inclusive for all Londoners, and this should be a key priority for TfL in future planning.

As it is the Mayor’s stated priority to support zero-emission transport, I urge you to consider relaunching the New Routemaster project as part of a new generation of zero-emission buses. By updating the New Routemaster design with modern electric technologies, we could achieve a perfect balance between accessibility, style, and sustainability

For further context and suggestions, I encourage you to read the following blog posts that outline how to improve your zero-emission bus fleet:

https://clondoner92.blogspot.com/2023/08/my-suggestions-to-help-create-…

https://clondoner92.blogspot.com/2024/10/reviewing-and-suggesting-new-c…

Thank you for your attention to this important issue. I look forward to hearing about your plans to improve accessibility for all London bus passengers. 

What would you like us to do? 

I kindly request that the Mayor’s office consider advocating for a relaunch of the New Routemaster project, updating it with zero-emission technology to improve accessibility and passenger satisfaction. Furthermore, I urge TfL to incorporate more inclusive design features in future buses.

Bus offer meeting

To Seb Dance + others

Hi all,

See attached deck ahead of our discussion at 12:00.
Let me know if you have any questions.
 

Kind regards
 

[Reference in attachment – remainder of content unrelated]:
 

24 February 2024 (New Routemaster – Hybrid vehicles)

RE: Bus stats for SK/DB

To Seb Dance + others

[Relevant part of email – remainder of content unrelated]

In terms of recent enhancements to the network, this year TfL has/is:
 

•  …
• refurbishing 280 New Routemaster buses to bring them to the latest specification for comfort and accessibility.

RE: TO CLEAR BY COP: TfL Priority Seating Week Release for Monday 24 April
 

To Seb Dance + others

Press release appears here (Reference to New Routemasters in additional information):

New Priority Seating to be installed on TfL buses, improving journeys for customers who need a seat while using public transport - Transport for London

RE: TO CLEAR BY 11:30: TfL Priority Seating Week release
 

To Seb Dance + Others

Hi [Personal information]

Why is this improvement only for New Routemaster buses? I think that needs to be explained. And are they electric buses? Otherwise fine to progress through sign off – with one further typo corrected in the notes.
 

Thanks,
 

[Personal information]
 

[Relates to above press release]

NEWS: Mail (p15) Hear it. Ditch it. Sorted
 

TO GLA Media Overview (Pan GLA Mailing list)

NEWS: OnLondon - Sadiq Khan visits Ballymena bus factory amid wrangle with government over TfL funding
 

To Seb Dance + Others

VISIT: Ballymena 4th March

To Seb Dance + Others

Hi all,

TfL has let us know that Ballymena is pencilled in for 4th March – it’s not something we’d heard so just wanted to check in to see if that was the thinking as we’d need to urgently start looking at planning or is this dependent on the funding situation?

TfL also asked whether we’d have issues with optics of not being in London on a day of Tube strike impacts with the strikes expected to take out the morning of 04/03.
In terms of the story, there are a few opportunities. Abellio has signed a contract with Wrightbus to supply them with electric double deckers on the route 111 (replacing New Routemasters). This buses will also have a new more customer friendly interior a la the recently launched 63. This could be announced by SK.
There is also a prototype bus that’s due to be in London, but it could be held back in NI if that’s helpful and we should also have hit 750 electric buses then too.
Let us know particularly on timings.
Thanks
[Personal information]
Press Officer – Mayor of London’s Press Office
GreaterLondonAuthority City Hall, Kamal Chunchie Way, London, E16 1ZE

Fwd: Briefing Request: Deputy Mayor meeting with Caroline Pidgeon AM - 3 February 2022 at 1030
 

To: Seb Dance + one other

Seb
 

Attached for info a background briefing from TfL ahead of your informal meeting with Caroline Pidgeon next week.
 

[Personal information] could you save to the diary please?
 

Thanks
 

[Personal information]
 

[Briefing references to Mayor’s Questions:]

Mid-life refurbishment of 1000 New Routemaster buses (2)

Mid-life refurbishment of 1000 New Routemaster buses (3)

RE: URGENT TO CLEAR: Funding intervention release

To Seb Dance + others

Newsletter of the Friends of Capital Transport Campaign Issue number 97
 

Welcome
 

Welcome to the latest e mailed newsletter to friends of Capital Transport Campaign. As always, please let friends of friends know about its existence, so that they can apply to have their address added to the mailing list.
 

The next issue will appear in March 2022 and the deadline for any items you wish to include is March 6th. Plenty to report in this issue : An integrated rail plan is published; Crossrail latest; Shadow transport spokespeople; Fare increase in 2022; TfL finances; Heidi Alexander; New Routemasters removed from route 91; Tackling Covid; Night tube and Night Overground; Travel in London report; Forthcoming events; from the Archives of Capital Transport Campaign.
[Remainder of newsletter out of scope]