UK's double-decker buses get modern update

LONDON Boris Johnson says the fuel-efficient shiny red double-decker bus is expected to hit the streets of London in 2012.

An earlier model, London's well-known Routemaster, was retired from general service in 2005. Its replacements -- boxy, modern double-deckers and giant articulated buses -- have largely failed to win Londoners' affection.

Johnson spent Thursday morning showing off a life-size model of the new bus -- one that conserves the curves of the much-missed Routemaster. He said standing at the back of the bus "brings back a sense of nostalgia."

The new buses are being designed and built by U.K.-based Wrightbus and Heatherwick Studio.