Route master is the famous red London double-decker which for several decades served successfully London public transport and today recreates for tourists a legendary old-city panoramic view.
Since 1958 till 2005 (the withdrawal year), route master was the red symbol, easily differentiated due to several distinctive features (the intensive red color, the double platform, the open superior deck). Although today route master is classified as a traditional piece, Londoners consider the bus as a defining element in London’s recent history. Moreover, they are extremely proud that tourists have come to really appreciate their symbol. This evolution was possible due to the traditional, old-fashion image route master kept along 5 decades. Of course, London authorities continue to explore the economic potential of this prototype although route master is out of public service except for 2 routes and now serves exclusively the touristic segment.
Route master became popular when it replaced old trolleybuses and trams but later its efficiency raised many controversies as its design was not enough optimized to meet the requirements of an emancipated society. The debate was between tradition and modern approach. Traditionalists strove to keep this defining symbol in London’s history, while modernists sustained the pragmatic need for sophisticated public transportation means. The solution was meant to satisfy both parties and route master is still on tour for tourists when visiting London.
The double-decker way to success was not easy at all. It was London Transport that was fully held route masters and in 1984 the privatization process started. Several modifications have been made along the years to improve its efficiency, but the classic design varied insignificantly. Although the red color was predominant and practically labeled the route master, the green color was preferred to the classic red in order to serve the country division. A silver and gold prototypes got green light to honor Queen’s jubilee in 1977 an 2002.
The year 2007 brought back into spotlights the route master. A “green” version has been projected and the major challenge relies on launching friendly environment ROUTE MASTERs. This measure has been initiated by Boris Johnson, the mayor of London. Three famous competitors such as Aston Martin, Capoco and Foster and Partners have made some interesting design proposals. The intention is to match low gas emission to an attractive image.
England’s colonies have adopted this vehicle to serve local public transport. Singapore Hong Kong and India have developed and modernized their own double decker fleets.
It goes without saying that route master, no matter the interior or exterior modifications , reinvented or traditional, will continue to stand for a significant symbol of London. In the mean time, the double-decker fulfills successfully a limited segment in public transport and gives tourists the opportunity to see the city from top of the bus. Probably Londoners will never gave up their red symbol, this conservative attitude shows their respect and appreciation for tradition and national values. If you’ll have the opportunity to visit London, the sightseeing tour is surely the perfect option to capture London’s life.