Chinese vehicle manufacturer BYD unveils new double-decker bus design

‌The iconic red double-decker bus has been transporting London's passengers since the 1920s. 

Its modern version is becoming greener, with around 1,300 zero emission buses on the capital's streets - a combination of electric, hybrid and diesel buses.

London already has lower emissions than many other major cities. Transport for London says it aims to convert the entire fleet by 2034 to meet clean air targets.

‌One of several manufacturers already contributing to the current fleet, Chinese-owned BYD, is bidding to add its latest state-of-the-art double decker bus to London's busy routes. 

Last week it unveiled the new upgraded model at the London Bus Museum in Surrey. 

BYD, which specializes in commercial electric vehicles, says the key feature of this new version of the double-decker is its greater battery power. 

"Uniquely this bus is the first example of us using our new blade battery in a commercial vehicle and what that brings with it is advantages of safety, performance and value for money," said Frank Thorpe, Managing Director at BYD UK. 

With specially designed battery packs forming part of the structure of the chassis, the bus has a range of up to 400 miles from a single charge. BYD says this design makes the bus ideal for London's lengthy routes and allows for more space for passengers.‌

The vehicle also has a tight turning circle, designed to better navigate London's narrow streets and heavy traffic. 

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BYD says that despite these upgrades, it has stuck to the traditional look of the original red bus. "For the end user, nothing looks any different," Thorpe told CGTN. "They see a red bus, but they're getting all the benefit of this technology."

He added: "London has really high ambitions for the bus network to become zero emission by 2030 and that's going to be a hell of a lot of work. So, really our work starts now. But we have a great foundation with which to push on." 

BYD hopes its new double-decker will be providing a passenger service to Londoners by the end of this year, although details of any deal with Transport for London have yet to be announced.

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