London is known for its iconic red buses that traverse the city, making commuting a breeze for millions of people every day. However, have you ever wondered how much it costs to buy one of these buses? In this article, we will explore the cost of purchasing a London bus and the factors that affect its price.
Types of London Buses
Before delving into the cost of a London bus, it is essential to understand the different types of buses available. The most common types are:
- Single-decker
- Double-decker
- Bendy bus (articulated)
- Routemaster (retired)
Single-Decker Buses
These buses are suitable for short journeys and can typically accommodate up to 30 passengers. They are preferred for routes with low passenger volume and narrow roads where double-decker buses cannot operate. Single-decker buses are cheaper than their double-decker counterparts and cost around £190,000.
Double-Decker Buses
These iconic red buses can carry up to 80 passengers and are perfect for high-volume routes with long distances. They offer more seating capacity than single-deckers but require more fuel to operate. Double-decker buses have an average price tag of £350,000.
Bendy Buses (Articulated)
Bendy buses are long articulated vehicles that can bend in the middle, allowing them to navigate tight turns on narrow streets. They have a higher passenger capacity than single or double-decker buses and cost around £325,000.
Routemaster (Retired)
The Routemaster bus is a retired model that was popular in London during the mid-20th century. It had an open rear platform and was known for its iconic design.
However, these buses are no longer in production and are considered collector’s items. The average price of a restored Routemaster is around £40,000.
Factors That Affect the Cost of London Buses
Aside from the type of bus, several factors can influence its cost. These are:
- Age of the bus
- Mileage
- Condition (interior and exterior)
- Manufacturer
Age of the Bus
Newer buses typically have a higher price tag than older ones since they come with more modern features such as air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and USB charging ports.
Mileage
Buses that have covered more mileage tend to be cheaper since they require more maintenance and have a shorter lifespan.
Condition (Interior and Exterior)
Buses that are well-maintained with clean interiors and exteriors have a higher resale value than those that are poorly maintained.
Manufacturer
The manufacturer can also affect the cost of a London bus. Brands such as Alexander Dennis, Volvo, Scania, and Mercedes-Benz are among the most popular in London due to their reliability and efficiency.
In Conclusion
The cost of purchasing a London bus varies depending on several factors such as type, age, mileage, condition, and manufacturer. Single-decker buses are the cheapest with an average price of £190,000 while double-decker buses cost around £350,000.
Bendy buses fall in between at around £325,000. The Routemaster bus is now considered a collector’s item but has an average price tag of £40,000 if restored. Ultimately it comes down to your needs as a buyer and how much you are willing to spend.