All aboard Der Routemeister

A PROPOSAL for a new electric Routemaster bus is unveiled today, complete with glass roof, optional solar panels and LCD screens showing route details.

Passengers can hop on and off the German-designed e21 a crucial feature of the old Routemasters.

But unlike the original, the e21 has a safety barrier that can be moved across the open doors in case of overcrowding.

The bus is also more accessible than the old model, with space for seven wheelchairs and a floor that lowers automatically by sensing the level of the kerb.

Passengers on the top deck will be able to enjoy panoramic views through a transparent roof, which uses hi-tech insulation glass to protect them from heat and cold. Some sections of the roof will open like a sunroof and there will be the option of exchanging some of the panes for solar panels.

To boost safety the e21 uses metal that absorbs frontal impacts and side parts made of plastics that can spring back into shape after a collision.

The proposal was drawn up by designer Michael Kerz, a graduate of St Martin's design school, for a contest launched by Mayor Boris Johnson to find a 21st century version of the Routemaster. The classic vehicle was withdrawn from service by Ken Livingstone. Mr Johnson has pledged to revive it.

Mr Kerz said: "My inspiration to enter the competition was simply my love for the traditional Routemaster, which in my view is London's ultimate symbol for everybody in the world.

"The next generation deserves a contemporary and confident design with respect for its original. My idea is to adapt it to our world today in terms of energy-efficiency, commitment to the environment, using the best technologies available."

The e21 can recharge its electric batteries in 10 minutes, with operating costs of a few pence per kilometre making the additional platform conductor even more affordable.

Mr Kerz added: "A see-through roof or panoramic cabin is the obvious solution to satisfy tourists' needs." His experience includes working on the Siemens and EON headquarters in Munich, furniture for Ecart Paris, and designs for Bang & Olufson.

The e21 is one of a series of rival designs, including the H4, which boasts U-shaped seating and TV screens. Another by Foster and Partners has a glass roof. Judges are due to meet next week with a winner announced next month.