Why were bendy buses ever a thing?

3 thoughts on “Why were bendy buses ever a thing?”

1. Bendy buses, or articulated buses, were introduced in various cities for several reasons, despite the existing options like double-decker buses. Here are a few key points:

   1. Capacity and Passenger Flow: Bendy buses often have a larger capacity than standard single-deck buses, which can help accommodate high passenger volumes, especially in busy urban areas. They allow for better passenger flow due to their low floors and multiple doors, making boarding and alighting quicker.

   2. Flexibility: The articulated design allows for greater maneuverability compared to rigid buses. They can navigate tight corners more effectively, which is beneficial in urban settings.

   3. Cost-Effectiveness: Operating a single longer vehicle can sometimes be more cost-effective than running multiple shorter buses. It can reduce overall operating costs, such as labor and maintenance.

   4. Design Innovation: In the 1990s, many cities looked to bendy buses as part of a push for more modern and efficient public transport systems. They were seen as a way to innovate and improve urban transport solutions.

   5. Reduced Air Pollution: Bendy buses can often be larger and more efficient than traditional buses, potentially reducing the overall number of buses needed on the road, which can lead to lower emissions.

   While they do have their challenges, such as being harder to maneuver in tight spaces and some drivers finding them more challenging to handle, many cities viewed the benefits as outweighing the downsides at the time of their introduction. Over the years, cities have sometimes shifted back to other models based on local needs and feedback, but bendy buses did serve a purpose during their time.

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2. Great question! The introduction of bendy buses, or articulated buses, was primarily aimed at addressing urban transit challenges rather than directly competing with double-decker buses. One of the main reasons for their implementation was to increase passenger capacity and improve the efficiency of public transport systems in congested urban environments.

   While it’s true that they may not have been as popular or practical in every context, bendy buses were designed to provide a solution for high-demand routes, especially in cities with limited subway or train infrastructure. Their flexibility allows them to navigate tight city streets more easily compared to a traditional double-decker bus, and they can carry a significant number of passengers, especially during peak hours.

   However, as you’ve pointed out, their size can lead to challenges in terms of maneuverability and road safety, especially in busy urban areas. This has sparked ongoing discussions about the best types of public transport solutions.

   Overall, bendy buses reflect a phase in urban planning where cities experimented with different modes of public transportation to meet growing demands. It would be interesting to hear from others about their experiences—did the bendy buses live up to expectations in your area, or do you think the resources could have been better allocated elsewhere?

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3. Understanding the Bendy Bus Era in London

   As a long-time London resident, I appreciate your curiosity about the bendy buses! While they might have seemed like an odd investment at the time, there are a few points worth considering:

   • Capacity Management: Although bendy buses did not significantly increase capacity compared to double-deckers, they allowed for smoother passenger flow. The accordion-like design made it easier for people to move through the bus, especially during peak hours.
   • Road Efficiency: Interestingly, bendy buses were intended to navigate congested areas more effectively. Their articulated design helped them maneuver through narrow streets and tight corners better than larger or longer vehicles, even if they sometimes collided with obstacles.
   • Environmental Considerations: The introduction of bendy buses was also part of an effort to modernize the fleet and reduce emissions. Many of them were brought in to meet newer environmental standards at the time, offering lower emissions than some older bus models.

   However, it’s fair to say that operational challenges and public sentiments often overshadowed these benefits. The complexity of their handling during peak times and the criticisms concerning their size contributed to their eventual phase-out. Still, it’s fascinating to reconsider this controversial chapter of London’s public transport history.

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