en.Wedoany.com Reported - On July 3, UK-based Rotherham manufacturer Magtec recently completed the electrification retrofit of a London Routemaster bus, which has been put into operation on Golden Tours' sightseeing routes in London. The double-decker bus, which has been in service for about 60 years, retains its original body appearance, replacing the original diesel powertrain with an electric drive system and a 200kWh battery pack, achieving a range of approximately 120 miles after the retrofit.

Due to the compact structure of the Routemaster, the retrofit required arranging batteries and related equipment within the vehicle's body space. Magtec installed the main battery pack in the underfloor area and distributed additional battery modules in other parts of the vehicle to meet capacity and weight balance requirements. The driver's cab was also updated with a digital instrument panel and a new electrical control system.

Golden Tours CEO Mikesh Palan stated: "We are very proud to bring the first electric Routemaster to the streets of London. This project represents a perfect blend of tradition and innovation—embracing a more sustainable future while protecting a London icon." Magtec founder Marcus Jenkins noted that sightseeing operations are an ideal application scenario for such bus electrification retrofits, with clearer economic benefits compared to regular bus operations.

Magtec stated that two additional Routemaster bus electrification retrofits are underway, which will later be used for Golden Tours' afternoon tea sightseeing services. Magtec has completed over 30 diesel bus electrification retrofits, covering London, Oxford, Liverpool, and Wales. Two more Routemaster bus electrification retrofits are in progress, destined for Golden Tours' afternoon tea sightseeing services.