Description
In the early 1950s, the BVG (Berliner Verkehrsbetriebe) needed modern double deck busses to replace the pre-war units. Based on a Büssing 6500 T framework, the type D2U was built. It became the bus in West Berlin during the 1950s and 60s and eventually became an icon of the city. The first models were delivered with an open rear platform, which led to a series of accidents. During the 1960s, a door was added. The last units were retired in the late 1970s after having been in service for up to 17 years and running more than 1.2 million kilometres.
This bus is a replacement for the pre-war D2 type. It has more power, more capacity and is faster. Still, since these units were operated by a driver and a conductor, running costs are still quite high.
Technical Data
| Name | Büssing D2U |
|---|---|
| Built | 1951-1965 |
| Lifespan | 13 |
| Capacity | 91 passengers |
| Power | 150 hp |
| Speed | 48 mph |
| Weight (empty / loaded) | 9.5t/15.7t |
| Dimensions (length/width/height) | 10.400 / 2.500 / 4.000 |
| Load amount | 19 |
| Cost factor | 54 |
| Running cost factor | 86 |
Images and Screenshots
The photos on this page were kindly provided by the "Arbeitsgemeinschaft Traditionsbus Berlin", a club of enthusiasts that maintain several oldtimer busses from Berlin. Their web site which describes many types in all detail can be found at www.traditionsbus.de (beware, it's completely in German!)
