Transport for London (TfL) will be putting real-time traffic information on digital screens on the back of buses in a pioneering scheme.

The technology is being trialled for the first time in the world on the 344 route between Clapham Junction and Liverpool Street.

TfL hopes it will provide London’s drivers with a new source of information to help avoid congestion and improve their journeys and the reliability and efficiency of the roads.

Buses have been fitted with with electronic boards by Equitech IT Solutions, which use GPS technology to give accurate and up-to-date traffic information which is fed by TfL’s 24-hour traffic control centre.

The approach will be used on a further bus route, the 415 between Tulse Hill and Liverpool Street, in the autumn, following the successful trial of live traffic information displayed on taxi advertising boards.

If the trials are successful, the technology could soon be seen on buses across London.

Garrett Emmerson, TfL's chief operating officer for surface transport, said: "This innovative use of one of the capital’s most iconic features – the London bus – will help all road users.

"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."

City Hall has also recently announced that it will be putting air quality alerts on bus stops and Tube stations to highlight London's worst pollution spots.