What is a double-decker bus and what are its primary uses?

A double-decker bus is a bus that features two levels or decks. These buses are primarily utilized for commuter transport, but open-top variants are commonly used for sightseeing tours, and some models function as coaches for long-distance travel.

In which regions and cities are double-decker buses most commonly used for mass transport?

Double-decker buses are most commonly used for mass transport in cities across the United Kingdom and Ireland. They are also prevalent in Hong Kong, Berlin, and Singapore, and have historical or current usage in many other global locations.

When did the first horse-drawn double-decker omnibus appear, and when were they first motorized?

The earliest horse-drawn double-decker omnibus emerged in Paris in 1853. These vehicles were subsequently motorized in the 1900s.

How did double-decker buses become popular in Great Britain, and what is a well-known example?

Double-decker buses gained popularity in Great Britain at the beginning of the 20th century. The red London bus, particularly the AEC Routemaster, is a famous example of this type of vehicle.

What were some of the key differences between early and modern double-decker buses regarding driver and fare collection?

Early double-decker buses typically had the driver in a separate cab, and a bus conductor was responsible for collecting fares. Modern double-deckers usually feature a main entrance door at the front, with the driver handling fare collection, which reduces the crew but can slow down boarding.

Why were rear open platforms, once popular with passengers, abandoned on modern double-decker buses?

The rear open platforms, which were favored by passengers, were discontinued on modern double-decker buses primarily for safety reasons. This change was implemented because there was a risk of passengers falling when running and jumping onto the bus.

What is the maximum vehicle height permitted within the European Union for passenger transport vehicles like double-deckers?

Within the European Union, the maximum height allowed for motor vehicles in categories M2 and M3, including double-deckers, is 4 meters (approximately 13 feet 1 inch) for both national and international traffic.

What are the different standards for double-decker buses in the United Kingdom regarding height?

The United Kingdom employs three standards for double-decker buses: highbridge buses, commonly used in urban areas; lowbridge buses, designed for routes with lower clearances like in the countryside; and 4-meter height coaches, which are suitable for traversing Europe.

Which European cities outside the British Isles are noted for their prominent use of double-decker buses?

Outside the British Isles, double-decker buses are most notably prominent in Skopje and Berlin.

What historical significance does the AEC Routemaster hold in London's public transport?

The AEC Routemaster was a significant and iconic double-decker bus that served as a staple of London's public transport network for nearly half a century after its introduction in 1956. Its retirement from general service in 2005 was due to the difficulty in accommodating passengers with disabilities.

What led to the discontinuation of the AEC Routemaster heritage routes in London?

The heritage route 15H, which kept vintage Routemaster buses in operation, was discontinued in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the expiration of its contract. Heritage route 9H had ceased operations earlier in 2014 because of low patronage and increased operating costs.

When did hybrid and all-electric double-decker buses begin to appear in London?

A hybrid-powered double-decker bus entered service in London in 2007. By late 2008, more hybrid models were in service, and London introduced its first all-electric double-decker buses, manufactured by BYD, in October 2015.

What are the maximum permissible lengths for rigid double-decker buses and coaches in the UK?

In the UK, the maximum length for a rigid double-decker bus is 15 meters (49 feet 3 inches) with three axles, and 13.5 meters (44 feet 3 inches) with two axles. Double-decker coaches are typically 12 meters (39 feet 4 inches) long, though newer models can be around 13.75 meters (45 feet 1 inch).

How does the UK's maximum dimension for articulated double-decker buses compare to rigid ones?

Articulated double-deckers in the UK are allowed a maximum length of 18.65 meters (61 feet 2 inches), which is longer than the 15-meter limit for rigid double-deckers. The overall maximum dimensions, including any trailer or articulated section, are specified by regulations.

What is notable about the double-decker buses operated in Gibraltar?

The double-decker buses in Gibraltar, operated by Calypso Transport, are notable because Gibraltar is the only British territory in Europe that drives on the right side of the road, meaning these buses are left-hand drive.

What is the scale of double-decker bus usage by Dublin Bus in the Republic of Ireland?

Dublin Bus operates a substantial fleet, with approximately 1,000 double-decker buses making up nearly its entire fleet of 1,008 buses as of October 2019, making it the second-largest double-decker fleet in Europe after London.

When were double-decker buses used in Vienna, Austria, and what routes did they serve?

Double-decker buses were in use on city services in Vienna between 1960 and 1991. They also operated on services connecting Vienna to its airport and on route 4420 between Innsbruck and Lienz.

What type of double-decker buses are used in Ostrava, Czech Republic, and on which lines?

Since 2020, Ostrava in the Czech Republic has been using two Scania UNVI Urbis DD CNG double-decker buses. These operate on line 78 during weekdays and on line 88 during weekends and holidays in the summer season.

What manufacturers' double-decker buses have been used in Copenhagen, Denmark, since 1970?

Since 1970, various operators in Copenhagen, Denmark, have used double-decker buses from manufacturers including Leyland (initially), MAN (in the 1980s-1990s), and Volvo (in the 2000s), with the Volvo models being derivatives of the B7 series.

Which Finnish city was the first to officially incorporate double-decker buses into its local traffic?

Public Transport of Turku, known as Föli, became the first city in Finland to officially incorporate double-decker buses into its local traffic in the autumn of 2019.

What was the fate of the first double-decker motor buses in Paris, France, introduced in 1906?

The first double-decker motor buses in Paris, the Schneider Brilliè P2, were withdrawn in 1911 after one overturned at Place Charles de Gaulle. Following this incident, they lost their upper decks and were renamed P3s.

Why did the RATP definitively abandon the use of double-decker buses in Paris in 1977?

The RATP definitively abandoned double-decker buses in Paris in 1977 because they were found to be poorly suited to the city's network structure. The stops were too close together, making it difficult for passengers to move between decks, and traffic issues also contributed to their unsuitability.

What is the status of double-decker bus fleets in Berlin, Germany, and how has it changed over time?

Berlin, Germany, has historically operated the largest double-decker fleet in continental Europe. While it had 1,000 in 1992 and reduced to 450 in 2002, the fleet stood at 197 vehicles as of 2023, comprising a smaller proportion compared to single-deck and articulated buses.

What were the common Fiat models used as double-decker buses in major Italian cities during the 1960s and 1970s?

During the 1960s and 1970s, major Italian cities utilized Fiat double-decker buses, with the Fiat 412 Aerfer being a common model. It was succeeded in 1961 by the Fiat 413 Viberti Monotral CV61.

What is unique about the double-decker buses operated by Liemobil in Liechtenstein?

Liemobil operates four double-decker MAN A39 buses on service 11 connecting Sargans, Switzerland, with Feldkirch, Austria, and also on other services within Liechtenstein. These buses are a key part of the country's public transport.

When were double-decker buses first introduced in the Netherlands for commuter routes, and what models were used?

Double-decker buses began to be used in the Netherlands very recently, with Connexxion introducing 18 three-axle double-deckers in December 2017 on route 346 between Haarlem and Amsterdam Zuid. These were VDL Futura FDD2 models.

What type of double-decker buses were purchased by the Macedonian government for Skopje's local transport, and how many?

The Macedonian government purchased 217 Yutong City Master double-decker city buses from China for local transport in Skopje. These buses, with a capacity of 80 passengers each, were put into operation on September 8, 2011.

What type of double-decker buses did Boreal Transport introduce in Stavanger, Norway, in June 2008?

In June 2008, Boreal Transport introduced three double-decker buses in Stavanger, Norway, to accommodate high-traffic departures. These buses were intended to provide additional seating capacity on specific routes.

What type of double-decker buses are used on route 500 in Porto, Portugal, and when were they introduced?

STCP in Porto, Portugal, acquired 15 double-decker buses of the MAN A39 type, similar to those used in Berlin, which were introduced into normal service on February 28, 2011. These buses are commonly seen on route 500.

What types of double-decker trolleybuses were operated in Moscow, Russia, between 1938 and 1948?

Between 1938 and 1941, and again from 1945 to 1948, Moscow operated double-decker trolleybuses known as YaTB-3. These were built by the Yaroslavl Motor Plant and based on AEC 664T chassis, with only 10 units produced.

What happened to the MAN double-decker buses imported from Berlin to Barnaul, Russia?

The fleet of seven MAN SD200 and MAN SD202 double-decker buses imported from Berlin to Barnaul, Russia, operated on routes 3, 10, and 17 until they were phased out by 2011.

When were double-decker buses reintroduced to Bilbao, Spain, and what was their capacity?

Double-decker buses were reintroduced in Bilbao, Spain, in 2014 by Bilbobus. The initial six vehicles operated on route 56 and had a capacity of 132 passengers, with 80 seated and 50 standing.

What type of double-decker buses did Sweden purchase in 1965, and what was claimed about their operation?

In 1965, Sweden purchased 50 Leyland Atlantean double-decker buses with Park Royal bodies. Leyland claimed these were the first double-decker buses designed for one-man operation, featuring two staircases and two pairs of doors.

What type of double-decker buses are operated by Postauto in Switzerland on routes like Engelburg–St. Gallen–Heiden?

Postauto in Switzerland operates double-decker buses, including 19 Alexander Dennis Enviro500 models, on routes such as Engelburg–St. Gallen–Heiden and in the Obertoggenburg and Rorschach/Goldach regions. These buses seat 80 passengers and can carry 48 standing.

How many double-decker buses does the Istanbul public transit system (IETT) operate, and on what types of routes?

The Istanbul public transit system (IETT) operates 89 double-decker buses, primarily on longer-distance routes, including commuter services across the Bosphorus Bridge, connecting the European and Asian sides of the city.

What type of double-decker buses were introduced in Cairo, Egypt, in 2018 to address capacity needs?

MAN Lion's City double-decker buses, manufactured in Egypt, were introduced in Cairo in 2018 to increase capacity on the city's bus network.

How many double-decker buses did Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, purchase in 2017 as part of a larger order?

In 2017, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, purchased a fleet of 50 double-decker buses as part of a larger order for 850 new buses. Of these, 25 were allocated to the Anbessa City Bus Service Enterprise and 25 to the Sheger bus company.

What type of open-top double-decker buses are used for tourist routes in Mombasa, Kenya?

In Mombasa, Kenya, open-top double-decker buses manufactured by Yaxing Coach are used for a hop-on hop-off sightseeing route aimed at tourists.

What type of double-decker buses are utilized by companies for intercity services in Malawi?

In Malawi, companies use modern Marcopolo double-decker buses for intercity services connecting major cities like Lilongwe and Blantyre, as well as regional routes linking cities such as Mangochi, Mzimba, and Mzuzu.

What is notable about the double-decker buses in Johannesburg, South Africa, regarding their fleet size and manufacturers?

Johannesburg's Metrobus system operates 150 modern double-decker buses, manufactured by Volvo, Scania, and Marcopolo, as part of its fleet of 550 buses. These buses contribute significantly to the city's public transportation.

Which cities in Mainland China have double-decker buses in regular use, particularly on crowded lines?

Several cities in Mainland China, including Guilin, Nanning, Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Tianjin, Hangzhou, Wuhan, Dalian, Foshan, and Kunming, utilize double-decker buses, especially on crowded routes or during peak hours.

What is the legal length limit for double-decker buses in Hong Kong?

By law, double-decker buses operating in Hong Kong are restricted to a maximum length of 12.8 meters (approximately 42 feet).

What types of double-decker buses are used by Discovery Bay Buses and New Lantao Bus in Hong Kong?

Discovery Bay Buses utilizes MAN Lions City A95s and Volvo B9TLs, while New Lantao Bus operates a fleet mainly comprising MAN Lions City A95 and Alexander Dennis Enviro400 double-decker buses.

What was the outcome of the evaluation of tri-axle Leyland Olympians in Taipei and Taichung, Taiwan, in the early 1990s?

The evaluation of two tri-axle Leyland Olympians in Taipei and Taichung, Taiwan, in the early 1990s was unsuccessful, and the buses were subsequently sold to Hong Kong for spare parts.

What are the maximum height and length restrictions for vehicles in Japan that affect double-decker buses?

Japanese law imposes maximum vehicle dimensions of 3.8 meters (12 feet 6 inches) in height and 12.0 meters (39 feet 4 inches) in length, which influences the design and operation of double-decker buses primarily used for inter-city highway travel.

What were the three domestic double-decker bus models developed in Japan in the mid-1980s, inspired by imported models?

Inspired by imported models like the Neoplan Skyliner, Japanese manufacturers developed three domestic double-decker bus models in the mid-1980s: the Nissan Diesel Space Dream, the Hino Grand View, and the Mitsubishi Fuso Aero King.

What was the passenger capacity of the Yutong City Master double-decker buses introduced in Skopje, North Macedonia?

The Yutong City Master double-decker buses introduced in Skopje, North Macedonia, each have a capacity for 80 passengers.

What types of double-decker buses were used in Mumbai, India, since 1937, and what happened to the older models?

Mumbai has used double-decker buses since 1937, with models in the 1960s resembling London's buses. While numbers declined in the 1990s, the Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) phased out the legacy double-deckers in 2023 in favor of modern ones.

Which Indian cities have recently introduced electric double-decker buses manufactured by Switch Mobility?

Switch Mobility's electric double-decker bus, the EiV22, introduced in 2022, has been adopted by BEST in Mumbai, TSRTC in Hyderabad, TMC in Tirupati, and Ama Bus in Bhubaneswar & Puri.

What types of double-decker buses were operated in Karachi and Peshawar, Pakistan, from the 1950s until the late 1970s?

Double-decker buses, including Leyland models operated by the Lahore Omnibus Service, were in use in Karachi and Peshawar, Pakistan, from the 1950s until the late 1970s.

What is the significance of the AEC Regent III RT double-decker bus in the film 'The Mummy Returns'?

In 'The Mummy Returns,' the AEC Regent III RT double-decker bus is featured prominently as the vehicle carrying the main characters while they are pursued by mummies through London.

Double-decker Bus Wiki: Double Deck Dynamics: A Global Chronicle of Elevated Transit

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What is a Double-Decker Bus?

Elevated Capacity

A double-decker bus is a bus that features two distinct levels, or storeys, for passenger seating. This design significantly increases passenger capacity compared to a standard single-deck bus, making them highly efficient for mass transit in urban environments.

Diverse Applications

While primarily utilized for commuter transport in cities, variations like open-top models serve as popular tourist sightseeing vehicles, and specialized coach versions cater to long-distance travel, demonstrating their versatility across different transportation needs.

Global Presence

Though most commonly associated with the United Kingdom, double-decker buses are a significant part of public transportation systems in numerous cities worldwide, including Ireland, China, Hong Kong, Berlin, and Singapore, reflecting their enduring utility.

Historical Trajectory

Early Origins

The concept of a two-level passenger vehicle dates back to the mid-19th century. The earliest horse-drawn double-decker omnibuses emerged in Paris in 1853, offering a cost-effective way to transport more passengers.

Motorization and Popularization

The early 1900s saw the motorization of these vehicles. Great Britain, particularly London, became instrumental in popularizing the double-decker bus, with iconic models like the AEC Routemaster becoming synonymous with urban transit.

Evolution and Adaptation

While their prevalence saw a decline in some regions by the late 20th century, double-deckers have continuously evolved. Modern iterations incorporate advanced features like hybrid and electric powertrains, improved safety, and enhanced passenger comfort, ensuring their continued relevance.

Global Deployment

United Kingdom

The UK remains the heartland of double-decker buses. London's red double-deckers are globally recognized symbols. The country utilizes various types, from urban high-deckers to lower-height models for rural areas and longer coaches, adhering to specific dimensional regulations.

East Asia

In mainland China, double-deckers are common on crowded urban routes in cities like Guilin, Beijing, and Shanghai. Hong Kong extensively uses them, with a vast majority of its bus fleet being double-deckers, limited to 12.8 meters in length.

South Asia

India has a rich history with double-deckers, particularly Mumbai, where they are iconic. While some cities phased them out, modern electric double-deckers are being reintroduced, such as the Switch EiV22 in Mumbai and Kerala.

North America

Double-deckers are less common in US public transit, with articulated buses often preferred. However, they are used by private coach operators like Megabus and by transit agencies on the West Coast, such as in Victoria, BC, and for specific routes in Seattle and Los Angeles.

Southeast Asia

Singapore operates a substantial fleet of double-deckers, with over 2,000 units in service. These range from older models to modern, low-floor, multi-door variants, serving extensive public transport networks.

Oceania

Australia, particularly Sydney, has seen the reintroduction of double-deckers for urban routes and tourist services. Manufacturers like Bustech and Volgren produce models for Australian operators, often adapted for local conditions.

Technical Specifications

Dimensional Standards

Regulations vary globally, but typical dimensions for double-decker buses and coaches are critical for operational feasibility. These include maximum lengths, widths, and heights, which dictate their suitability for different road networks and infrastructure.

Dimension	Typical Value
Length	12.0m to 15.0m (Rigid), up to 18.75m (Articulated)
Width	2.55 metres (8 ft 4 in)
Height	4.0m to 4.95m (depending on type and region)
Mass	Approx. 12,000 kg (26,455 lb)

Propulsion and Capacity

Modern double-deckers are increasingly adopting environmentally friendly propulsion systems, including hybrid and fully electric powertrains. Passenger capacity typically ranges from 80 to over 120, depending on the specific model and configuration.

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References

Kaksikerrosbussi FÃ¶lin liikenteeseen syyskuun puolivÃ¤lissÃ¤ â FÃ¶li (in Finnish)

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This document has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence model. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy and adherence to the provided source material, the content is based on publicly available data and may not reflect the absolute latest information or nuances.

This is not operational guidance. The information presented here is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for official manufacturer specifications, operational manuals, or professional engineering advice. Always consult official documentation and qualified professionals for any practical application or operational decisions related to double-decker buses.

The creators of this content are not liable for any errors, omissions, or actions taken based on the information provided herein.

Double Deck Dynamics

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What is a Double-Decker Bus? 🚌

⬆️ Elevated Capacity

🗺️ Diverse Applications

🌐 Global Presence

Historical Trajectory ⏳

🐎 Early Origins

💡 Motorization and Popularization

📉 Evolution and Adaptation

Global Deployment 🌍

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

🇨🇳 East Asia

🇮🇳 South Asia

🇺🇸 North America

🇸🇬 Southeast Asia

🇦🇺 Oceania

Technical Specifications ⚙️

📏 Dimensional Standards

🔋 Propulsion and Capacity

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Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

What is a Double-Decker Bus?

Elevated Capacity

Diverse Applications

Global Presence

Historical Trajectory

Early Origins

Motorization and Popularization

Evolution and Adaptation

Global Deployment

United Kingdom

East Asia

South Asia

North America

Southeast Asia

Oceania

Technical Specifications

Dimensional Standards

Propulsion and Capacity

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Important Considerations

AI-Generated Content Disclaimer