Road vehicle; Prototype RM-type double deck motor bus fleet No RM1, registration number SLT56, 1954
Main details
Reference number | 1989/119 part 0 |
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Description | The red Routemaster has become internationally recognised as an icon of London. This bus, RM1, was the first of four prototypes for the Routemaster. It made its first public appearance in 1954 at the Earl's Court Motor Show. Before entering service it underwent extensive testing, included skids at 30mph and a tilt test to at least 28 degrees. In 1956 it was trialled on Route 2 between Golders Green and Crystal Palace. Passengers were encouraged to share their views on this 'future London bus.' |
Manufacturer | |
Dates | 1954 |
Collection | |
Object type |
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Completeness | 100% |
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Physical description
Dimensions Attribute Value Height 4380mm14ft 4.5inLength 8396mm27ft 6.55inWidth 2429mm7ft 11.625inWeight Attribute Value Laden 11tons 10cwtUnladen 7tons 7cwtColour Attribute Value Colour - Red
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Build and type
Attribute Value Deck DoubleType RM-typeIn service 08/02/1956 - 01/08/1959Body number 9228, then B1Chassis number RM1Engine number AV/590/U180515Fleet number RM1Registration number SLT56London transport type code 1RM1 -
People involved
Role Person(s) involved Manufacturer AEC, 1954London Transport, 1954 -
Associated companies, people and places
Company Attribute Value Company Lockheed, 19/4/1973Garages Chiswick, 23/9/1954Cricklewood, 1/2/1956Cricklewood, 8/2/1956Chiswick, 8/8/1956Cricklewood, 14/2/1957Cricklewood, 6/3/1957Cricklewood, 1/8/1959Chiswick, 4/8/1959Upton Park, 3/12/1959Upton Park, 10/12/1959Bow, 20/1/1960West Ham, 27/4/1960Upton Park, 7/9/1960Shepherds Bush, 19/9/1960West Ham, 30/11/1960Walthamstow, 1/11/1961West Ham, 1/12/1961Poplar, 1/7/1963West Ham, 1/3/1964Seven Kings, 18/7/1966Poplar, 21/7/1966Poplar, 1/7/1968Barking, 1/10/1968Edmonton, 18/4/1970Dalston, 8/1/1972Dalston, 28/10/1972Chiswick, 17/7/1981AEC, 29/3/1985Operated by London Transport, 1956 - 1959Places Place Golders Green, 1956Route 2, 1956
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