Does the UK still have bendy buses?

The Decline of Bendy Buses in the UK

Once a ubiquitous sight on London’s streets, the bendy bus has largely disappeared from the city’s public transport landscape. These distinctive vehicles, characterized by their articulated design, offered several advantages in terms of capacity and maneuverability. However, concerns regarding their safety and impact on traffic management ultimately led to their demise.

Advantages of Bendy Buses

Bendy buses were initially introduced in the UK in the 1990s as a way to increase passenger capacity without lengthening the overall vehicle size. Their articulated design allowed them to accommodate more passengers than traditional double-decker buses while still navigating tight urban streets. Additionally, their maneuverability made them particularly suitable for congested areas.

Safety Concerns

Despite their advantages, bendy buses faced criticism in the UK due to safety concerns. The articulated joint could create a hazard in the event of an accident, particularly for passengers who were not properly secured. There were reports of passengers being trapped in the joint or falling between the two sections of the bus.

Traffic Management Issues

Another concern raised about bendy buses was their impact on traffic management. Their length and maneuverability could make them more difficult to drive in busy urban areas. They were also reported to be prone to getting stuck in junctions, which could cause delays for other vehicles.

Conclusion

The combination of safety concerns and traffic management issues ultimately led to the discontinuation of bendy buses in the UK. While they offered certain advantages in terms of capacity and maneuverability, these were outweighed by the potential risks and inefficiencies. Today, London’s streets are predominantly served by the familiar red single and double-decker buses, which have proven to be a more reliable and safer form of public transport.