Foster+Partners and Aston Martin won the Transport for London design Competition
Two emblematic British brands – Aston Martin and Foster + Partners – worked together to challenge preconceptions of bus design in the category of ‘Whole Bus Design’.
Gathering first-hand research and canvassing passengers, drivers and conductors, the team worked from the inside – out. Designed in response to the needs of its users, the new bus is zero emissions ready, accessible for all and will set new standards for sustainable vehicles.
The bus will reinvent a much-loved London icon for a new era and re-establish the city as a world leader in the design of public transport. As the symbol of place, the bus is also designed to navigate the dense and varied streets of London, employing innovative technologies to allow for greater manoeuvrability on tight corners.
Increasing safety and visibility, screens in the cabin allow the driver to supervise CCTV images and both the layout and choice of warm lighting and wooden floors are conceived to foster a spirit of conviviality.
The arrangement of the decks is driven by comfort and particular consideration is given to the selection of upholstery to create a ‘living room’ feel, especially in the saloon-like lower deck.
The original ‘Routemaster’ was introduced in 1956 and saw continuous service for almost forty years: the new bus for London is designed to adapt to changing technologies and serve the capital for the next forty years and beyond.
Foster + Partners
Founded by its Chairman, Norman Foster and is based in London with offices worldwide. The studio’s work has helped to reshape the capital over the past four decades with masterplans, infrastructure projects, museums, and modern landmarks such as the Millennium Bridge and 30 St Mary Axe (aka the Gherkin).
Aston Martin
One of Britain’s best loved automotive brands. A strong heritage coupled with exceptional design, quality and craftsmanship has kept Aston Martin at the forefront of car manufacturing and racing for more than 90 years.
Transport for London Competition
Joint first prize: Aston Martin and Foster + Partners, Capoco Design Ltd.
Runner up: Héctor Serrano Studio, Jamie Martin (Surbiton)
Merit: David Bradshaw, Style to Design Ltd, Concrete, all-round creative (Belgium), LA:UK Design Ltd, Eric Woodcock (Southport), Lottie Duke (Lancashire), Rhys Wyman (Cheshunt, Hertfordshire)
Foster+Partners, Aston Martin, Transport for London Competition
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