Transport for London has started a trial where it will display live traffic information on the back of buses using digital information boards.
 
TfL describes the six-month long trial – which is taking place on the 344 route between Clapham Junction and Liverpool Street – as a “world first.”
 
The signs are fitted with GPS technology to give up-to-date information from TfL’s variable message sign network.
 
“This innovative use of one of the capital’s most iconic features – the London bus – will help all road users,” said Garrett Emmerson, TfL’s chief operating officer for surface transport. “We’re focused on keeping London moving and on giving drivers real-time information through a range of channels to help them avoid congested roads and reduce wasted time and needless pollution from idling cars.”

If successful, the digital boards could be expanded across London in the future, TfL said. The bus trial follows on from a similar project last year which saw a number of taxis displaying live traffic information on advertising boards.

“At Abellio we aim to take travel ‘beyond a-to-b’ and believe that this innovation can help achieve that goal. Initiatives which help keep traffic moving will also help those travelling by bus,” said Tony Wilson, managing director of Abellio London.l