22 June 2013 Last updated at 11:35

London 24 bus uses only hybrid engine double deckers

The buses will be used on route 24 between Hampstead Heath and Pimlico

A bus route has become the first in London to only use new hybrid engine double deckers.

Route 24, which runs between Hampstead Heath and Pimlico, started using the buses on Saturday.

The new buses have been inspired by the old Routemaster design and will carry about 28,000 people each day.

Mike Weston, Operations Director of London Buses, said the vehicles would "save a lot of money", adding: "We bought these buses for the long term.

"We've ordered 600 buses and they will be in service in London for at least 14 years, and over that life of the vehicle we will recoup the extra costs from fuel savings."

Eight of the buses have already been in use in London.

Each vehicle costs about £354,500 and has an estimated lifespan of 14 years.