New buses trialed on popular route

The 244 bus is set to undergo a massive overhaul, with a new fleet introduced to the popular route in south east London.

Happy April Fools!  Sadly, triple decker buses are just a dream for now.

Following the success of double decker buses being introduced to the route last year, Transport for London (TfL) are announcing plans for a new type of extra large bus to be added to this popular route this spring.

London's first triple decker busses will be seen on the 244 route from this month in the hope to ease overcrowding.

A TfL bus expert said the new buses are to be the first of their kind and will even include a lift and aircraft style emergency slides for the upper decks, in case of the need to evacuate quickly.  The new vehicles will also be fitted with radar devices to warn the driver of obstacles like low bridges.

Local resident, Joe King said they look forward to being able to get a seat on the new buses and hope they don't have too much difficulty in getting up Eglinton Hill.

Overall Design & Dimensions

• Height: Significantly taller than a standard double-decker, with a sleek, modern third deck seamlessly integrated on top. The bus now stands approximately 5.5–6 meters tall (roughly the height of a two-story building), giving it an imposing yet elegant presence on the suburban street.
• Color Scheme: Vibrant cherry-red bodywork with crisp white and black accent lines running along the roof edges of each deck for a clean, high-tech look

Deck-by-Deck Features

Lower Deck (Ground Level)

• Spacious entry with wide automatic doors and low-floor access for easy boarding (including wheelchair and pram users).
• Modern LED headlights with a sharp, aggressive front design.
• Large panoramic windows offering excellent views even from the lower level.
• Dedicated priority seating and space for mobility aids near the front.

Middle Deck (First Upper Level)

• The classic double-decker experience, now even more refined.
• Comfortable high-backed seats arranged in a mix of forward-facing and some booth-style configurations.
• Bright interior lighting with yellow handrails.
• Large windows that run almost the full height of the deck, flooding the space with natural light.

New Third Deck (Top Level)

• The standout feature: A full additional passenger level with its own set of large, continuous windows offering 360° elevated views of the surroundings.
• Likely features premium "Sky Lounge" seating — possibly with slightly more spacious or reclining seats for longer journeys.
• Enhanced climate control and possibly quiet zones or USB-C/ wireless charging at every seat.
• The roof of the third deck has a subtle aerodynamic curve and integrated solar panels (for powering onboard systems like lighting and Wi-Fi).
• Safety glass with UV protection and noise-reducing technology to keep the top level comfortable even at speed.

Technology & Passenger Comfort

• Digital Destination Display: Clear electronic board showing “Queen Elizabeth Hospital 244” — now with sharper, higher-resolution text.
• Smart Features:
  • Real-time passenger information screens inside each deck.
  • Free high-speed Wi-Fi throughout all three levels.
  • Onboard CCTV with AI monitoring for safety.
  • Contactless payment and Oyster card readers at the entrance.
• Accessibility: Multiple priority spaces, audio-visual announcements, and lift or ramp access between decks (the image suggests a modern internal staircase or possibly a small elevator for full accessibility).
• Eco-Friendly Elements: Electric or hybrid powertrain (suggested by the clean, quiet design and "Go" branding), with regenerative braking and low emissions.

Capacity & Practicality

• Passenger capacity: Around 120–150 people (significantly higher than a standard double-decker’s 80–100), making it ideal for busy urban and suburban routes like the 244.
• Smooth, stable ride thanks to advanced suspension designed to handle the extra height without top-heaviness.
• The bus still navigates normal roads comfortably, as seen parked on this leafy suburban street near the bus stop.

Aesthetic Highlights

• The triple-decker has a bold, futuristic silhouette that turns heads while still feeling like a natural evolution of iconic London red buses.
• The clean lines, extra windows, and taller profile make it look more like a luxury coach than a traditional city bus — perfect for routes serving hospitals, schools, or tourist areas.

If successful on the 244 route, TfL hope to extend them to the routes that use the Blackwall and Silvertown Tunnels.

What do you think about the new buses?  Leave us a comment, below.