London's Red Bus Goes Green

The iconic image of the Routemaster double-decker bus of London has been preserved and reinvented for the 21st century. The Mayor of London announced the winners of a design competition, A New Bus for London, sponsored by Transport for London. The competition, open to all interested parties, was seeking stylish (as good looking as the old favorites) and imaginative (green and greener) designs for a new and better bus for the city of London.

Well-known British automaker Aston Martin worked together with architects Foster+Partners on their winning entry pictured above. They share the top prize with the entry from Capoco Design Ltd., pictured below.

Upon its introduction as a prototype in 1954, the Routemaster was considered the most modern double-decker bus in the world. The Routemaster remained in regular service throughout the city until 2005. Vintage Routemasters can still be found on at least one heritage route in London. Of course, the beloved design image can easily be found on souvenirs all over the city.

Photos courtesy of Transport for London