London’s world-famous Routemaster bus has been brought into the 21st century with an all-electric makeover.
Yorkshire EV specialist Magtec has just completed work on creating the world’s first electric Routemaster, with plans for more conversions already in the works.
The Rotherham-based company transformed the 1960s open-top diesel bus into a fully electric vehicle, packaging a 200kWh battery within the original bodywork to deliver a 120-mile range without altering its classic appearance.
Magtec’s engineers worked to distribute the battery packs around the bus’ somewhat compact bodywork but said that the simple 1960s electronics worked in their favour, avoiding the complex integration needed on more modern vehicles.
Apart from a digital dashboard and lack of diesel fumes, there’s little clue to the bus’ new lease of life.
The Routemaster was introduced in 1956 and quickly became a symbol of London, as synonymous with the capital as the red phone boxes or Buckingham Palace. Production of the original design continued until 1968, with 2,876 made. Around 1,200 are believed to still exist.
Magtec converted the 1960s example for tour company Golden Tours, which is now operating it on its sightseeing route around the capital with its iconic red livery. The firm has already begun work on two more hard-top vehicles which will be painted pink and used for Golden Tours’ afternoon tea on wheels service.
Matt Kasprzycki, senior programme manager at Magtec, said: “The Routemaster is one of the most recognisable vehicles in the world and preserving that appearance while completely transforming what powers it was the central engineering challenge.
“We also engaged closely with the Routemaster enthusiast community throughout the project, and the response has been overwhelmingly positive. They recognise that electrification gives these historic vehicles a viable future for decades to come.”
Mikesh Palan, CEO of Golden Tours, added: “We are incredibly proud to be introducing the first-ever electric Routemaster to London’s streets. This project represents the perfect blend of heritage and innovation, preserving an icon of London while embracing a more sustainable future.”
