Superloop: What is it?
The Superloop itself is an intriguing concept that has been implemented in the travel of many commuters daily. The question is what these 11 lines are and how they produce the function of a loop. The answer is surprisingly simple: each bus line leads on to another. For example, SL3 from Thamesmead to Bromley North changes into SL5 after reaching Bromley North towards Croydon. The start of this was in July 2023, when SL8 (Uxbridge to White City) had its inaugural journey, and more SL lines were added to the loop later in 2023, stretching into 2024 and 2025.
What happened to X buses?
Some routes were simply renamed to the Superloop style, like the X26 was renamed the SL7. But if we were replacing routes with names, then what is the point?
They had done it, so it is easier to understand how to loop through a lot of the outer London boroughs. I believe that this is a very smart step in making the routes easier to navigate. The clear branding and route shown on the bus is very appealing, and the white and red are very classy.
Bus Model Types
Many Volvo Wright Gemini’s like the one seen above are primarily used on SL7, while others feature the Alexander Dennis 400EV and the BYD BD11, mostly electric, yet some are hybrid. But these can always change, depending on what buses are available to go during the scheduled time of departure from the start of the line.
What is on Superloop Buses?
Superloop buses have a similar interior to a normal bus, while having USB ports onboard and the line itself displayed on the inside. Some buses that are like the BYD BD11 used on SL4 and SL5 also feature air-conditioning, while others may seem slightly dated, like the Wright Gemini.
Will the Superloop grow?
Many have disputed over 5 new lines and a completely new Superloop 2 coming in 2026, but these are not fully confirmed yet; they are concepts. But I believe that taking the Superloop further, slightly into Rainham and Dartford, would make commuting out of London way easier and more efficient. The most recent line is SL11 and SL12 connecting Abbey Wood to North Greenwich and Gants Hill to Rainham.
The Superloop is a large loop of buses, interconnected by large hubs on the circumference of London. I would say this brings people together. This is the meaning of the TfL. A powerful statement that the UK does things better!