Northern Ireland-based coachbuilding company Wrightbus has been chosen to supply new jump-on-jump-off double-decker buses for London.
The plans to replace the city's much-loved Routemaster were officially announced on Wednesday.
Due to be introduced into service in 2011, the bus will have an open platform at one of its three entrances, with the platform able to be closed off at certain times, such as at night.
Incorporating the latest hybrid technology, the bus will be 40% more fuel efficient than conventional diesel buses and 15% more fuel efficient than current London hybrid buses.
London Mayor Boris Johnson had promised to bring back a version of the Routemaster, which was finally withdrawn from service at the end of 2005 having been first introduced in 1956.
Mr Johnson said: "Londoners have waited with stoic patience as work has continued behind the scenes to select the manufacturer to make the 21st century Routemaster a reality.
"The decision has now been made and we can look forward to a new icon of London that not only returns to the capital the joy of the open platform, but also utilises the latest state-of-the art green technology, slashing pollution and fuel consumption.
"The countdown is now well and truly on as Wrightbus work 19 to the dozen to deliver Londoners their new bus in 2011, ahead of the world descending on the city for the 2012 Games."
Based in Ballymena, coachbuilding company Wrightbus pioneered the low-floor bus and has supplied vehicles across the UK, including hybrid buses in London.
Mark Nodder, managing director of the company's parent body Wright Group, said: "Wrightbus is delighted to have been chosen as preferred bidder. This project marks the start of an exciting new chapter in passenger transport in one of the world's great cities."
© Press Association