Morgan to show iconic Routemaster bus at events throughout year

Morgan Routemaster bus and Morgan Plus 8

(May 22, 2018) LONDON — Morgan Motor Company will bring an iconic Routemaster bus — the second-to-last edition to have been withdrawn from service — back to the British public at events throughout 2018.

Manufactured, like the first Morgan Plus 8, in 1968 and delivered for its first service in January of that year this Routemaster — registration SMK 759F — is expected to have clocked over 1.5 million miles during its lifetime.

The vehicle was withdrawn from service nearly 44 years after birth and was given an admirable send-off on Dec. 9, 2005. Crowds gathered along the 159 bus route, from Marble Arch to Brixton, as it took its final journey.

Morgan Motor Company has acquired the bus at the beginning of this year, which is in incredible condition and work is underway to make sympathetic conversions. Preserving its characteristics and many of its original features, the Routemaster will share 50th anniversary celebrations with the Plus 8 and be an accomplice at multiple events for Morgan throughout 2018, showcasing the iconic features of the Morgan brand.

The Malvern-based company is renowned for its hand-crafted vehicles, true craftsmanship that can be transferred, therefore it is fitting that all designs for the bus as well as enhancements will all be carried out in-house.

This bus features a 7.7-liter Iveco diesel engine. Its sister vehicle and very last of its kind to be taken out of service can be found on display at the London Bus Museum at Brooklands.

Steve Morris, managing director of Morgan Motor Company, said: “The Routemaster bus is arguably one of the most iconic vehicles in existence, it services as a symbol of Britain and is part of our national identity. It therefore gives us great pleasure to continue the life of one of the last decommissioned buses as our event space. Morgan has an exciting year ahead, and we can’t wait to utilize the bus at events all around the UK. Our plans for the bus will make it the ideal event space for Morgan customers and enthusiasts alike."