All London buses could soon display live traffic information if a new pioneering trial is successful.

Several buses on route 344 between Clapham Junction and Liverpool Street have been fitted with electronic boards to help commuters and motorists avoid congestion, with the aim of improving journey times and the reliability and efficiency of the capital’s roads.

The boards, fitted to the rear of buses by Equitech IT Solutions, use GPS technology so that messages displayed are relevant to the surrounding area, with information taken from Transport for London’s (TfL) Variable Message Sign network, which is fed by its 24-hour traffic control centre.

The concept, which is believed to be a world first, is also set to be introduced on route 415 between Tulse Hill and Liverpool Street in the autumn, and could be rolled out across the capital if the idea proves effective, following the six-month pilot.

Garrett Emmerson, TfL's chief operating officer for surface transport, believes that all road users will benefit from the information boards.

“We're focused on keeping London moving and on giving drivers real-time information through a range of channels to help them avoid congested roads and reduce wasted time and needless pollution from idling cars,” he commented.