 |
| Highlights of publicly available documents concerning the New Routemaster project. |
In this article, I have compiled a comprehensive directory of freely available documents and information to make it easier for researchers and enthusiasts to find in-depth, behind-the-scenes information about the New Routemaster (NRM) bus, also known as the New Bus for London (NBfL).
This shows the evolution of the NRM, which was originally envisioned as a half-cab open-platform bus; it launched as a three-door, two-staircase vehicle with an open platform and a second crew member, transitioned into a one-person operation with open boarding, and eventually moved to front-door-only boarding to combat fare evasion. FOI-.787-1213
7 September 2012
Weights and capacities of the prototype New Bus for London
Vehicle Delivery and Introduction
Eight prototype vehicles, LT1 to LT8, were delivered and entered passenger service between February and July 2012. LT2 was the first to enter service on 27 February 2012, while LT5 was the last on 13 July 2012. A technical proving vehicle, designated AE217, was delivered to the Millbrook proving ground on 13 May 2011 but was not meant for public service. Additionally, a full-scale mock-up was put on display at the London Transport Museum on 4 November 2010.
Specifications and Passenger Capacity
The official kerb weight for the new bus is 12.650 tonnes. The final target capacity is 87 passengers, which includes 40 seats on the upper deck, alongside 22 seats and space for 25 standing passengers on the lower deck. The initial prototypes running on route 38 had a slightly lower capacity of around 83 passengers, with the numbers expected to rise to the full 87 once design modifications were finalised for production.
https://www.whatdotheyknow.com/request/weights_and_capacities_of_the_pr
FOI-1772-1213
12 February 2013
Fuel consumption of prototype NB4L
TfL does not currently hold monthly diesel fuel or mileage statistics for the New Bus for London fleet on route 38. Because the eight prototypes are stage one evaluation vehicles still undergoing modifications, reliable in-service fuel consumption data will only be published after a robust sample of production vehicles has been in service for at least six months, which is anticipated for early 2014.
During independent testing at Millbrook using a simulated route test cycle, the vehicle achieved a fuel consumption rate of 24.18 litres per 100 kilometres. While this test cycle allows for a direct comparison with other double-deck vehicles under identical conditions, it does not match operational service because real routes vary in terms of stops, traffic, topography and passenger loads. Instead, future real-world performance will be compared directly against non-hybrid diesel buses to evaluate the benefits.
IRV-141-1213
22 May 2013
Following an internal review, TfL apologised for mistakenly stating it did not hold fuel consumption data for the prototype buses. It confirmed that data exists from June to December 2012, recorded in four-week blocks.
The prototypes achieved 6.74mpg, outperforming hybrid (6.1mpg) and diesel buses (5.3mpg) on the comparable route 73. However, TfL noted this data is unrepresentative because the prototypes were heavier, faced initial technical issues with software and air-chill systems, and only operated during the day.
Production models are lighter and expected to improve fuel efficiency by 1mpg, especially on 24-hour routes like route 24. TfL will publish finalised fuel economy data once production vehicles complete six months of service.
https://www.whatdotheyknow.com/request/fuel_consumption_of_prototype_nb
FOI-0492-1314
23 July 2013
Guidance for second crew member on New Bus For London vehicles
TfL provided the high-level guidance issued to operators regarding the duties of the second crew member, noting that private operators like Metroline and Arriva can issue additional guidance and determine the role's official title.
The conductor's primary responsibilities include supervising boarding and alighting at the rear platform, signalling the driver when it is clear to move, and maintaining a presence at the open platform. They are also tasked with vehicle checks, helping wheelchair or buggy users when stationary, patrolling both decks, providing passenger information, and validating fares.
If a second crew member is absent, the vehicle can switch to One Person Operation (OPO), where the open rear platform converts into a standard closed door.
Regarding technical specifications, TfL confirmed the initial production models on route 24 have an unladen weight of 12.46 metric tonnes and a current capacity of 81 passengers. A weight-saving programme is underway for subsequent vehicles to reduce weight and increase carrying capacity.
TfL extended the statutory deadline under the EIRs to 21 August 2013 to locate and collate the requested fuel consumption data for the five B5LH hybrid models previously used on route 24.
19 August 2013
TfL provided the requested fuel consumption data for the hybrid diesel buses previously operating on route 24. Although the request asked for data up to June 2013, TfL supplied the figures up to period eight of the 2012/13 reporting cycle (ending October 2012), as this was the final period these hybrids operated on that specific route.
The accompanying table shows the four-weekly reporting periods from December 2011 to October 2012, with the hybrid fleet's fuel economy fluctuating between 6.5mpg and 7.3mpg.
TfL noted that while these B5LH models are finalised production vehicles, the New Bus for London (NBfL) vehicles previously on route 38 were merely prototypes. Despite their prototype status, the NBfL vehicles recently averaged 6.74mpg, and the newer production models entering route 24 are expected to deliver even greater fuel economy.
TfL reiterated that the Millbrook Proving Ground test results remain the best baseline for fleet comparisons, as they simulate identical conditions based on central London's route 159. These independent tests show the NBfL to be the cleanest and most fuel-efficient option. TfL remains committed to publishing robust, real-world comparison data between the production NBfL vehicles and conventional diesel buses on route 24 in 2014.
https://www.whatdotheyknow.com/request/guidance_for_second_crew_member
2013 New Routemaster contracts
FOI-0644-1314
- NBfL Lease agreement
- Wright Customcare Terms and Conditions of Warranty
- Heatherwick Studio contract with TfL (PRO 1790)
- Amended and Restated Design and Supply and Maintenance of Double Decker Bus Vehicles Contract (PRO1632)
- NBFL Chassis Service Matrix
- NBFL Operations Manual
https://www.whatdotheyknow.com/request/new_bus_for_london_contracts
0953-1415
26 September 2014
Failed route tests for the New Routemaster
7, 14, 19, 22, 23, 74, 94, 139, 168, 414 and C2
Were previously disclosed as unsuitable for New Routemaster conversion without infrastructure changes.
For routes 7 and 23, multiple residents' parking bays between Westbourne Terrace and either North Pole or Ladbroke Grove would need to be shortened or removed. The left turn into Sydney Place for routes 14 and 414 is too tight between the corner and a pedestrian centre island, while the left turn into Parkgate Road for route 19 is restricted between a signal post and the kerb. On route 22, the Putney Common Stand would require widening onto Common Land, and for route 74, using Putney Garage as a bus stand is unsuitable for daytime operation. Junctions surrounding Turnham Green on route 94 are too tight. Additionally, stand length or tight manoeuvres present problems at West Hampstead for route 139, Hampstead Heath for route 168, and Parliament Hill for route C2, where the vehicle risks over-sweeping the pavement or grounding on traffic-calming features.
TfL did not provide cost estimates for these works.
https://www.whatdotheyknow.com/request/failed_route_tests_for_the_new_r
FOI-2615-1718
23 January 2018
Questions about the SRM and Enviro400H City
TfL has clarified that it has no direct involvement in the development, procurement, or financing of the SRM (‘Son of Routemaster’) or Enviro400H City buses. Since the completion of the New Routemaster (NRM) order, TfL does not mandate specific vehicle makes, models, or internal liveries for its routes, meaning that private bus operators are entirely responsible for choosing whether to buy or lease these vehicles from the open market. Consequently, TfL does not hold information regarding individual unit costs, specific route allocations, or upcoming trials for these models. While previous mayoral aspirations suggested adopting the NRM's 'DNA' across the fleet, TfL confirms this is not a contractual requirement, provided operators meet standard capacity and accessibility regulations.
https://tfl.gov.uk/corporate/transparency/freedom-of-information/foi-request-detail?referenceId=FOI-2615-1718
FOI-4259-1718
12 February 2018
New Routemaster bus
Under section 21 of the FOI Act, TfL declined to provide direct lists of New Routemaster (NRM) routes and accident statistics, directing the requester to filterable data on its website.
NRMs have an expected 14-year working life in London and undergo a mid-life refurbishment at around seven years of age. There are no plans to withdraw the fleet. While most of TfL's 1,000 NRMs were already hybrid and compliant with the 2020 Euro VI emission standard, around 300 required upgrades to meet it. TfL will not mandate further NRM purchases for new tender contracts, but operators may independently choose to buy or lease similar vehicles from manufacturers like Wrightbus.
Individual recent NRMs cost around £325,000, leading to a total vehicle capital cost of approximately £346 million. However, because operators do not need to buy the vehicles, the resulting net operating savings mean the total net cost to TfL over the 14-year lifecycle is expected to be considerably lower.
https://tfl.gov.uk/corporate/transparency/freedom-of-information/foi-request-detail?referenceId=FOI-4259-1718
FOI-1163-1819
23 August 2018
Temperature on New Routemaster buses
NRM saloon cooling reports
TfL clarified that it did not hold specific technical specifications for the air-cooling units, as private operators managed the fleet, but it required all double-deck buses to provide upper-deck air cooling to lower temperatures rather than maintain a thermostatically controlled target. While the system was originally designed for closed-window operation, TfL retrofitted existing New Routemasters (NRMs) and modified new ones to include opening windows following passenger feedback about stuffiness during hot weather. Audits conducted during July and August 2014 showed that 292 out of 300 checked NRMs (97.33%) had cooling systems operating adequately or at capacity, with the remaining eight faulty vehicles immediately reported for repairs. TfL noted that internal warmth was highly subjective, influenced by factors like high ambient temperatures—which reached 33°C on one audit day—passenger loads, and vehicles sitting in direct sunlight. Consequently, TfL had no plans to replace the NRMs, as all new double-deck buses used similar cooling systems and opening windows alongside features like white roofs, insulation, and tinted windows to manage heat gain.
https://tfl.gov.uk/corporate/transparency/freedom-of-information/foi-request-detail?referenceId=FOI-1163-1819
FOI-1067-1920
22 July 2019
New Routemaster Bus Dimensions
CUS-02978_2 (plug door)
https://tfl.gov.uk/corporate/transparency/freedom-of-information/foi-request-detail?referenceId=FOI-1067-1920
FOI-1642-1920
26 September 2019
Tripartite meetings
Tuesday 19th February 2019
5. Stamping Out Fare Evasion (SOFA) on New Routemasters
To reduce the scope for fare evasion, TfL will be modifying all New Routemaster vehicles so that they are front door boarding only (except wheelchair users etc) and customers will be able to alight through either of the two rear doors.
All buses will switch to the new operating approach on a single launch date in late 2019 /early 2020. Activities will include driver briefing sessions, customer communications and engagement and updated vehicle signage.
Monday 20th May 2019
ACTION: Stamping out Fare Evasion (SOFA) – TfL to provide feedback on New Routemaster vehicle modification whereby it will be front door boarding only (except wheelchair users etc) and customers will be allowed to alight through either of the two rear doors.
https://www.whatdotheyknow.com/request/tripartite_meetings#incoming-1439366
FOI-2450-1920
12 December 2019
TfL Consultation results of the 'New Bus for London' (New Routemaster)
The New Bus for London consultation, which ran from 16 December 2011 to 31 January 2012, gathered online questionnaire responses from 106 participants, the vast majority of whom had viewed the bus in person. While 55% of the respondents used London buses at least once a day, 43% selected 'other' for their usage frequency. Overall feedback on the vehicle’s design was highly positive, with strong approval (scores of 4 or 5) for exterior and structural features such as the two staircases (71%), the open rear platform (71%), three-door boarding (62%), and exterior styling (66%). The interior design also received favourable reviews, particularly the colour scheme (70%), lighting (67%), seat pattern (69%), and accessibility (69%), though the lower deck seating layout was slightly more polarised with a combined 53% rating it a 4 or 5. Finally, the consultation concluded with 93 participants providing additional comments or suggestions in an open-ended question.
https://www.whatdotheyknow.com/request/tfl_consultation_results_of_the
FOI-2180-2021
26 February 2021
Outdated & superseded London Bus and New Routemaster specifications
NRM specification (updated 2013) - Doc 16
https://tfl.gov.uk/corporate/transparency/freedom-of-information/foi-request-detail?referenceId=FOI-2180-2021
FOI-2086-2021
27 January 2021
New Routemaster spin-off vehicles
TfL confirmed that the text referenced by the requester regarding New Routemaster spin-off vehicles belonged to an out-of-date and superseded New Bus specification, providing the most recent version instead. TfL also clarified that there was no cost to the scheme itself, as the private bus operators paid for the vehicles.
https://tfl.gov.uk/corporate/transparency/freedom-of-information/foi-request-detail?referenceId=FOI-2086-2021
FOI-0935-2122
23 August 2021
Posters and leaflets promoting/featuring New Bus for London/New Routemaster
TfL promotional materials from 2012 and 2013 introduced the New Routemaster as a custom-designed hybrid featuring three doors, two staircases, and a hop-on, hop-off rear platform supervised by a conductor to speed up boarding on routes 9, 11, 24, and 390. However, a 2020 campaign for route 8 announced a shift to front-door-only boarding to combat fare evasion and standardise procedures across London. Under this rule, passengers faced an £80 penalty if they failed to touch in at the front, whilst the middle and rear doors became exit-only, though wheelchair and buggy users could still request middle-door entry.
https://tfl.gov.uk/corporate/transparency/freedom-of-information/foi-request-detail?referenceId=FOI-0935-2122
FOI-2149-2122
20 January 2022
New Routemaster (NRM) buses
TfL confirmed that New Routemaster (NRM) buses were allocated to routes 3, 8, 9, 11, 12, 15, 16, 19, 21, 24, 27, 38, 55, 59, 67, 68, 73, 76, 87, 91, 137, 148, 149, 159, 168, 176, 189, 211, 253, 254, 259, 267, 313, 390, 415, 453, EL1, EL2, EL3, N3, N8, N9, N11, N15, N16, N19, N38, N55, N73, N87, N253, N279, and NEL1, alongside routes 111, H32, and H98 on a temporary basis. There were no immediate plans for further route conversions.
Open boarding on NRMs, despite the abolition of bendy buses in late 2011, stemmed from a policy decision by the TfL leadership based on the Mayor's manifesto to introduce "hop-on, hop-off" boarding with conductors. Conductors previously enabled open-platform operations on routes 9, 10, 11, 24, 38, and 390 before they were withdrawn on cost grounds. Following a trial on route 8 in 2019, all NRM routes converted to front-door-only boarding by 5 September 2020 to reduce fare evasion. This phased rollout began in January 2020, faced disruptions from March to June 2020 due to Covid-19, and was supported by iBus announcements, signage, and direct text communications to passengers.
TfL stated that the NRM design applied modern standards to a series of requirements, rather than using a traditional half-cab and permanent open platform. The vehicles carried an expected lifespan of 12 to 14 years before being sold off by their respective owners. Financially, an individual NRM cost around £325,000, bringing the total vehicle capital cost to TfL to approximately £346 million, though net operating cost savings meant the total net cost over the 14-year lifecycle was expected to be considerably lower.
https://tfl.gov.uk/corporate/transparency/freedom-of-information/foi-request-detail?referenceId=FOI-2149-2122
FOI-1423-2223
07 October 2022
Documents for the refurbishment of the New Routemaster fleet
- New Routemaster Aesthetic Mid-Life Refurbishment - Technical Requirements Specification
- TfL CMS Specification
- Moquette Specifcation
https://tfl.gov.uk/corporate/transparency/freedom-of-information/foi-request-detail?referenceId=FOI-1423-2223
FOI-1830-2223
08 December 2022
Information about a New Routemaster bus got converted to full zero-emission battery electric bus
Contract Reference Number: tfl_scp_002075; Date: 26th May 2021; Contract for Services between London Bus Services Limited and Equipmake Limited
This contract dated 26th May 2021, establishes a zero-cost "proof of concept" trial between London Bus Services Limited (the Authority) and Equipmake Limited (the Service Provider), with Metroline Travel Limited acting as the third-party operator. The two-year agreement outlines the retrofitting of Equipmake's proprietary electric drivetrain onto an Authority-provided New Route Master bus (LT11) to assess its real-world performance on a London bus route. The trial features a sole discretion one-year extension option for the Authority and mandates strict pre-trial acceptance criteria—including a 500-mile fault-free road test—alongside in-service targets of 90% availability and a 125-mile daily range. Governed by English law, the contract includes a 90-day no-cause termination clause, standard £5 million liability insurance minimums, London Living Wage compliance, and strict decommissioning clauses requiring the vehicle to be restored to its original state at no cost upon completion or failure of the project.
https://tfl.gov.uk/corporate/transparency/freedom-of-information/foi-request-detail?referenceId=FOI-1830-2223
FOI-2100-2425
10 October 2024
New Routemaster specifications for window openings, door button modification and refurbishment for the Superloop route SL3
This FOI request asks TfL for technical specifications regarding modifications to New Routemaster buses, specifically covering window openings, door button adjustments for front-entrance boarding, and Superloop SL3 refurbishments (including USB ports and branding). TfL responded that the window and door changes were completed prior to the refurbishment programme and were therefore excluded from those specific documents. Additionally, TfL clarified that because the refurbishment guidelines were written before New Routemasters were assigned to Superloop routes, they contain no specific instructions for USB ports or branding; instead, TfL currently relies on general design standards from their standard new bus specification to guide any retroactive USB installations.
https://tfl.gov.uk/corporate/transparency/freedom-of-information/foi-request-detail?referenceId=FOI-2100-2425
FOI-0346-2526
16 May 2025
Pre-Refurbished New Routemaster and New Bus Seat Moquette Designs
https://tfl.gov.uk/corporate/transparency/freedom-of-information/foi-request-detail?referenceId=FOI-0346-2526
FOI-2819-2526
17 November 2025
Documents in relation to Tender Reference PRO1632
PRO1632 - ITN v 1.8 (Final): Provides formal instructions, procedural rules, and evaluation criteria for shortlisted suppliers submitting a Best and Final Offer to Transport for London for the design and manufacture of the New Bus for London.
New spec v00n: Details the technical performance requirements and mandatory engineering specifications that manufacturers must meet regarding the design, accessibility, and operational features of the New Bus for London.
NBfL - Invitation to BAFO FINAL: Outlines the background, timeline, confidentiality clauses, and initial submission guidelines for manufacturers entering the competitive bidding process to design and develop the New Bus for London.
SIGNED - PRO1632 Standstill Award Wrightbus_Redacted: Forms a notification letter informing Wrightbus Limited that they have achieved preferred bidder status for the project and details the final evaluation scores across all competing submissions.
https://tfl.gov.uk/corporate/transparency/freedom-of-information/foi-request-detail?referenceId=FOI-2819-2526
FOI-3180-2526
16 December 2025
New Routemaster Contracts and Design Changes
Rear door modification 2016 contract change: This London Buses Contract Change Note from late 2016 authorises a £158,620 retrofit by Wrightbus to convert the remaining 241 dual-mode double-decker buses into One Person Operation vehicles by removing conductors and locking the rear doors.
NBfL Specification v01a (Invitation to Negotiate - PRO1632): This document outlines the detailed technical specifications, regulatory compliance rules, performance criteria, and bidding guidelines issued by Transport for London for the procurement of the New Bus for London.
Amended and Restated Design and Supply and Maintenance of Double Decker Bus Vehicles Contract - 2014: Outlines the amended and restated terms for the design, production, maintenance, and supply of up to 800 double-decker hybrid buses and associated spare parts for London's bus routes, including detailed funding, delivery, and warranty mechanisms.
TfL report - open platform bus - August 2008: A review of vehicle new vehicle construction requirements that may influence or constrain the ability to produce a Routemaster style replacement vehicle.
Variation Request Form NBfL - New Bus for London roll out – 600 vehicles = 2013: TfL's Board and London Bus Services Limited authorised a contract variation worth £212,700,000 with Wrightbus Limited to procure 600 additional New Bus for London vehicles for direct ownership and leasing to operators by April 2016.
Variation Request Form - New Routemaster – Additional 200 vehicles: In December 2015, London Bus Services Limited requested a £69.9 million contract variation with Wrightbus Limited to purchase an additional 200 ultra-low-emission New Routemaster buses, bringing the total order value to approximately £293.7 million and the fleet size to 800 vehicles.
https://tfl.gov.uk/corporate/transparency/freedom-of-information/foi-request-detail?referenceId=FOI-3180-2526
FOI-3469-2526
08 January 2026
London Bus Dwell and Boarding Times
Steer Davies Gleave conducted a 2015 survey on bus routes 53, 453, 24, and 29 to analyse the impacts of cash-free operations and New Routemaster buses on dwell and journey times. The study revealed that whilst the multi-door New Routemaster buses achieved faster passenger exchange rates per person, they experienced longer overall average dwell times than traditional double-deckers due to increased fixed stop constants and door-checking procedures. Furthermore, average bus journey times across the surveyed routes generally increased when compared to historical data collected in 2003 and 2008.
https://tfl.gov.uk/corporate/transparency/freedom-of-information/foi-request-detail?referenceId=FOI-3469-2526
FOI-3860-2526
02 February 2026
Bus Front-Boarding and Dwell Times Documents
Findings from the Route 8 front-boarding trial and pre- and post-pandemic fare evasion data, but stated that specific past reports on Covid-era dwell times do not exist as that data was originally extracted on a bespoke basis.
Route 8 Trial Results v1: This technical note details a trial on London bus Route 8 which suggests that transitioning to front-boarding only led to a shift in fare evasion patterns—specifically reducing "No Ticket" and "PAYG non-validation" irregularities associated with open boarding—though the overall changes in fare evasion rates were not statistically significant and the small sample sizes mean the results should be viewed with caution.
https://tfl.gov.uk/corporate/transparency/freedom-of-information/foi-request-detail?referenceId=FOI-3860-2526
FOI-4391-2526
12 March 2026
Wrightbus New Bus for London Specification Layout (CUS-02328_2 tfl.pdf)
https://tfl.gov.uk/corporate/transparency/freedom-of-information/foi-request-detail?referenceId=FOI-4391-2526
FOI-4427-2526
13 March 2026
Part 2 Agendas for New Routemasters (2016)
The outlined proposals detailed plans to expand the New Routemaster bus fleet to complete an original contract of up to 1,000 vehicles with manufacturer Wrightbus. Approving the final orders secured discounted unit pricing and granted the transport authority the intellectual property licences required to let other manufacturers produce the design in the future. The proposals considered purchasing either an initial 30 or a full 195 additional vehicles, which were to be delivered by January 2018 and featured specifications such as opening windows on both decks.
https://tfl.gov.uk/corporate/transparency/freedom-of-information/foi-request-detail?referenceId=FOI-4427-2526
FOI-4801-2526
13 April 2026
Contract documents for final 195 New Routemasters in 2016
London Bus Services Limited (LBSL) sought authorisation for a £62,205,000 contract variation with Wrightbus Limited to purchase an additional 195 New Routemaster (NRM) buses. This final order brought the total fleet size to 1,000 vehicles and marked the completion of the original maximum contract between the parties. Upon delivery of the final bus, TfL was to receive a royalty-free, worldwide licence for the vehicles' intellectual property, enabling them to appoint third-party manufacturers in the future.
https://tfl.gov.uk/corporate/transparency/freedom-of-information/foi-request-detail?referenceId=FOI-4801-2526
FOI-0135-2627
07 May 2026
Wrightbus SRM Royalties
"The vehicles were sold to a London operator for use on the TfL network, so we didn’t apply clause 42.
We are not aware of any other buyers of this model, and therefore no royalties were collected for SRM, or the original NRM design."
https://tfl.gov.uk/corporate/transparency/freedom-of-information/foi-request-detail?referenceId=FOI-0135-2627
FOI-0075-2627
07 May 2026
Project Review Group papers on the New Bus for London:
9th July 2009:
The Investment Programme Management Office outlined the initial Corporate Gate C review for the New Bus for London and requested £0.5m to cover procurement and business case development up to the contract award. Analysts noted that the timeline to produce a prototype by 2011 was extremely challenging and carried technical and reputational risks regarding emissions standards. Consequently, the project passed through Corporate Gate C subject to conditions requiring a robust tender evaluation strategy, a detailed business case including crew costs, and a clear technical approval plan.
18th December 2009:
TfL requested an additional £10.876m from the Project Review Group to fund the design and development phase of the New Bus for London, which had been expanded to include the first five production vehicles. The proposed three-door, two-staircase vehicle aimed to introduce a modern icon to the capital whilst exceeding sustainability standards and decreasing passenger journey times. However, major project risks included significant unfunded operational costs for the future production roll-out and complex technical certification regarding the open rear platform.
18th February 2010
TfL provided an update on the progress made after the project received conditional approval and the contract was awarded to Wrightbus. The contractor initiated the underlying engineering design, commenced work on a functional mock-up, and refined styling concepts at the request of the project team. While most recommendations from the previous review were successfully addressed, items regarding internal governance, project plan contingency, and long-term production funding remained open.
https://tfl.gov.uk/corporate/transparency/freedom-of-information/foi-request-detail?referenceId=FOI-0075-2627
FOI-0412-2627
03 June 2026
Brand IP Licence Holders and Revenue Breakdown for Bus Merchandise
Based on TfL's official intellectual property and brand licensing guidelines, a member of the public has formally requested a comprehensive list of all companies authorised to manufacture merchandise featuring the New Routemaster bus design. The enquiry specifically highlights several existing commercial products—ranging from die-cast scale models by Corgi, Welly, and Oxford Diecast, to an Airfix self-assembly kit, alongside various novelty items, magnets, and soft toys produced by The London Toy Company. TfL manages these rights strictly to control how their iconic transport designs, logos, and vehicle shapes are replicated for commercial toys and general merchandise.
https://tfl.gov.uk/corporate/transparency/freedom-of-information/foi-request-detail?referenceId=FOI-0412-2627
New Bus for London competition papers
In 2008, after Boris Johnson won the London Mayoral election, shortly later into his term, he launched the a New Bus for London competition for the design of the AEC Routemaster successor.
Design category
Imagine category
Vehicle Specification Guidelines
The winners of the competition
KPMG's 2009 London Bus Services Review
The introduction of the New Bus for London creates immediate budgetary strain for Transport for London, as its incremental costs were excluded from the projected 2017/18 operator subsidy. Because private operators are reluctant to shoulder the high residual value risks of this unproven technology, KPMG recommends leveraging TfL’s covenant through a public leasing scheme. Implementing this financing model specifically for the six hundred vehicles in the New Bus for London fleet is estimated to deliver targeted annual savings of three million pounds.
https://web.archive.org/web/20120425171226/http://www.tfl.gov.uk/assets/downloads/corporate/Item05-Independent-Bus-Review-July09.pdf
Mayor Transport Strategy 2010
Chapter five – Transport proposals
A New Bus for London
The competition to design a New Bus for London was launched in July 2008 This attracted a large number of entrants, and in December 2008, the Mayor announced the winners.
The aim of the competition was to harvest a range of creative ideas for a bus fit for the 21st century These winning designs and concepts have been passed on to bus manufacturers, for development into final design proposals.
The New Bus for London will meet London Buses’ requirements for vehicles in public service in London, including high standards of accessibility, safety and emissions abatement In addition, it will be more durable, more fuel efficient and better ventilated The bus will incorporate a double-deck and a platform at the rear near-side corner, so passengers will be able to board and alight easily.
The first prototype of the new bus will be on London’s streets by 2011.
5.4.4 Bus fleet development
317. The bus fleet has been progressively developed with incremental enhancements to passenger comfort and security, including upgraded seat designs, CCTV throughout each bus, air-cooling systems and outward-opening doors to provide more space in the busiest part of the vehicle Emissions standards are ahead of legal requirements Diesel-electric hybrid buses are in service on a trial basis, and all new buses entering service from 2012 will use hybrid technology.
318. TfL is also seeking to develop an iconic bus design with its New Bus for London project.
Proposal 25
The Mayor, through TfL, will upgrade its bus fleet to meet increased emissions standards and will appoint bus manufacturers as part of the New Bus for London project It is intended that the first prototype will enter service during 2011.
https://web.archive.org/web/20121012222720/https://www.london.gov.uk/sites/default/files/mts_chapter_5_pt1_0.pdf
Information sheet about the New Bus for London
https://web.archive.org/web/20110313043926/http://www.tfl.gov.uk/assets/downloads/corporate/new-bus-for-london-additional-info.pdf
New Bus for London passenger service launch leaflet
https://web.archive.org/web/20120802125430/http://www.tfl.gov.uk/assets/downloads/corporate/new-bus-leaflet.pdf
Further research papers on the New Routemaster:
New Bus for London mock-up
Research on the mock-up of the New Bus for London to gauge reaction towards the design aspects on the bus (April 2011)
Summary (PDF 0.02MB)
Full Report (PDF 5.16MB)
New Routemaster in-service ambience
To understand in-service perceptions of ambience on board the New Bus for London (June 2012)
Summary (PDF 0.04MB)
Full Report (PDF 0.48MB)
https://web.archive.org/web/20250217194418/https://tfl.gov.uk/corporate/publications-and-reports/travel-experience
New Bus for London route 24
To assess the performance of a communications campaign to raise awareness of the introduction of New Bus for London to route 24 (September 2013)
New Bus for London route 24 awareness survey - summary - PDF 62KB
New Bus for London route 24 awareness survey - full report - PDF 269KB
https://web.archive.org/web/20250207054057/https://tfl.gov.uk/corporate/publications-and-reports/customers-information-needs
New Bus for London Rear Platform Safety Sign Research
https://tfl.gov.uk/corporate/transparency/freedom-of-information/foi-request-detail?referenceId=FOI-0442-2627
New Routemaster front-door boarding on page 148 of the document.
https://content.tfl.gov.uk/csopp-20200227-public-agenda-pack.pdf#page=148
Wrightbus New Routemaster specification sheet
https://web.archive.org/web/20160126085514/http://www.wrightsgroup.com/datasheets/Routemaster%20spec%20sheet.pdf
Capoco Design on the New Bus for London project review
Capoco Design - Routemaster specification (60Kb PDF)
Capoco Design - Taking Stock NB4L (0.8Mb PDF)
Capoco Design - Let there be light (1.6Mb)
Documents published by the Greater London Authority
MGLA011019-3753
October 2019
Correspondence between the Mayor Boris Johnson and Foster + Partners and Capoco
In response to a Freedom of Information Act request regarding the design rights and licensing of the New Routemaster bus, the Greater London Authority clarified that Transport for London held responsibility for those operational matters. However, they did release related correspondence from former Mayor Boris Johnson, which included 2008 and 2009 letters congratulating and arranging meetings with the design competition prize winners, Capoco Design and joint-winners Foster + Partners and Aston Martin.
https://www.london.gov.uk/who-we-are/governance-and-spending/sharing-our-information/freedom-information/foi-disclosure-log/foi-routemaster-design-intellectual-property-and-licensing
MGLA111019-4645
November 2019
Communications with British Bus manufacturers
The Mayor’s communications with the British bus manufacturers Alexander Dennis, Optare and Wrightbus between 2008 and 2016, when Boris Johnson was Mayor of London, including communications relating to the New Routemaster.
https://www.london.gov.uk/who-we-are/governance-and-spending/sharing-our-information/freedom-information/foi-disclosure-log/foi-communications-british-bus-manufacturers
FOI 4788
January 2015
Correspondence the Mayor has had with Thomas Heatherwick.
https://www.london.gov.uk/who-we-are/governance-and-spending/sharing-our-information/freedom-information/foi-disclosure-log/foi-mayor-joanna-lumley-and-thomas-heatherwick-correspondence
MGLA111119-6711
November 2019
Future plans for ultra low emission buses in London - 2015
During a mayoral meeting with London bus manufacturers held on 25 February 2015, the Mayor of London Boris Johnson highlighted plans to improve bus design by incorporating the New Routemaster’s "DNA" across the wider fleet to deliver a high-quality passenger experience. While the Greater London Authority did not favour New Routemaster lookalikes that could spoil the reputation of the true product, they encouraged manufacturers to replicate its aesthetic cues, styling, and passenger-benefit features, such as seating, accessibility, and lighting. At the time, TfL’s contract was limited to 1,000 New Routemasters, with the current order of 800 three-door versions expected to be a sensible limit due to London's constrained road layouts. To extend the vehicle’s design benefits to the remaining central and suburban fleets, manufacturers like Wrightbus and Alexander Dennis were already developing next-generation, two-door, single-staircase double-deck buses that embedded these key New Routemaster characteristics.
https://www.london.gov.uk/who-we-are/governance-and-spending/sharing-our-information/freedom-information/foi-disclosure-log/eir-future-plans-ultra-low-emission-buses-london
Is the new Routemaster value for money?
The Mayor launched the new-look Routemaster in 2011 as an iconic update to the classic London bus design, allowing passengers to hop on and off. However, critics highlighted several flaws, including overheating on the top deck, battery issues, lower-than-intended passenger capacity, and the fact that only some buses operated with conductors and an open platform. While TfL originally placed an order with Wrightbus for 800 buses to be delivered by May 2016, it considered increasing this to 1,000 to allow other manufacturers to incorporate these key design features. To evaluate whether the vehicle offered value for money, the basis of the investment, and whether more should be purchased, the Budget and Performance Committee met with TfL representatives in September, subsequently sending its findings to TfL's Managing Director in October.
Documents included:
05a Appendix 1 - Letter to TfL re New Routemaster.pdf
05b Appendix 2 - Response from TfL re New Routemaster.pdf
Appendix 3 Final letter to TfL
Appendix 4 Final reponse by TfL
Letter: Leon Daniels to John Biggs - BP Routemaster - 20.04.16
https://www.london.gov.uk/who-we-are/what-london-assembly-does/london-assembly-publications/new-routemaster-value-money
Why has TfL ordered more Routemasters?
During a meeting held on 8 March 2016, the London Assembly Budget and Performance Committee examined Transport for London’s (TfL) investment decision-making regarding the New Routemaster bus, reviewing the choice to purchase additional vehicles despite previous assurances to the contrary. The first session featured TfL's Managing Director of Surface Transport, Leon Daniels, and Director of Buses, Mike Weston.
https://www.london.gov.uk/press-releases/assembly/why-has-tfl-ordered-more-routemasters
Documents published by the Department for Transport
FOI-00060061
20 March 2026
New Bus for London (New Routemaster) briefing papers and certification documents (2009 - 2011)
Email chains involving the Department for Transport, TfL and Wrightbus discussing the legalities of the open platform for the NBfL.
https://www.whatdotheyknow.com/request/new_bus_for_london_new_routemast
FOI-00064840
23 March 2026
New Bus for London / New Routemaster (2012–2015)
In the email chain involving the Department for Transport, an invitation to ride the newly certified "New bus for London" on route 38 was accepted by one recipient who received departure times from Victoria, whilst another correspondent declined due to unavailability but noted that a colleague would get in touch to finalise arrangements.
https://www.whatdotheyknow.com/request/new_bus_for_london_new_routemast_2
Clean Fleets case study for the New Routemaster
The Clean Fleets case study detailed a bespoke diesel-electric hybrid double-decker fleet commissioned by Transport for London, designed by Heatherwick Studio, and manufactured by Wrightbus under a fixed-price 212 million pound contract for 600 vehicles. Utilising innovative regenerative braking and stop-start technology, these highly specified three-door buses significantly outperformed conventional vehicles by cutting annual carbon dioxide emissions by 20,000 tonnes and generating over 127,000 pounds in fuel savings per bus across their 14-year lifespan. Although the fleet won innovation awards and achieved high passenger satisfaction, the Clean Fleets report highlighted that the initial rollout required operational adjustments to resolve early teething problems, which included weight reduction measures and modifications to the upper-deck ventilation system following a 2013 heatwave.
https://web.archive.org/web/20140912044807/https://www.clean-fleets.eu/fileadmin/New_Bus_for_London_Case_Study_for_Clean_Fleets_-_final.pdf
Why the New Routemaster Documents Matter
It is very important to preserve such valuable documents because they provide the bigger picture behind one of modern London’s most ambitious and debated transport projects. Without a centralised directory, crucial engineering trials, contract variations, and route testing data risk being buried under layers of corporate bureaucracy.
As argued in my previous article, Why is it important for TfL to preserve historic transport data?, public bodies have a duty to keep their institutional memory intact and fully transparent. Public data belongs to the public, and safeguarding these freedom of information responses ensures that future urban planners, transport enthusiasts, and historians can evaluate the true legacy of the New Routemaster. Given how much of this fascinating history remains hidden in internal archives, I strongly suggest that TfL should release more files about the New Routemaster project to the public.
Don't hoard history—bring the history out for the world to see! Let this file stand as a permanent tool for accountability, research, and insight. If you have any files or disclosures which are publicly accessible and should be added here, please notify me on the social media platforms linked below.
