Buses of Malta

Historical Development of Maltese Buses

Until the last quarter of the twentieth century Maltese buses had generally had locally constructed bodywork, often a modified chassis of UK or American origin. A variety of liveries was carried.

Changes in Liveries

By the mid-1970s, out went the traditional liveries to be replaced by a uniform ‘spray green’ with white roof for route buses, while coaches initially carried a livery of buff and white.

Importation and Vehicle Types

The start of the 1980s saw the importation of complete vehicles from the UK. AEC Swifts were sourced from London Transport, while a variety of Bedford and Ford coaches started to appear carrying bodies by Plaxton and Duple. Other types included Bristol LH, AEC Reliance, Leyland Leopard, Tiger Cub and Panther Cub.

Modifications and Rebuilds

In typical Maltese fashion vehicles were often modified with different axles, engines and gearboxes, bodies rebuilt and, in some cases, replaced totally.

Livery Changes in the 1990s and 2010s

In 1995, the livery changed to yellow/white with an orange waistband and continued so until 2011.