Transport for LondonHybrid buses
Diesel-electric hybrid buses
Hybrid buses reduce emissions of local pollutants and carbon dioxide by at least 30 per cent compared to conventional diesel buses.
Hybrid buses in use
There are 368 diesel-electric hybrid buses in London, running on routes 3, 12, 15, 16, 19, 23, 24, 27, 38, 73, 76, 88, 94, 139, 141, 188, 211, 333, 380, 328, 360, 371, 436, H91 and E8.
The hybrid buses operating in London are split between 7 bus operating companies and 10 different types of hybrid buses.
The New Bus for London (NBfL) also utilises hybrid technology and will have the latest in diesel-electric technology.
How they work
Hybrid buses are powered by a mix of an ordinary diesel engine and an electric motor.
The hybrid buses we use also have regenerative braking, which means they generate electrical energy when the brakes are pressed.
This electrical energy is stored in a battery pack and used to drive the electric motor.
Download our factsheet on hybrid technology (PDF 102KB)
The hybrid programme
Since the initial introduction of hybrid buses in 2006, manufacturers have developed variations of hybrid systems for trial in London. The trial has helped develop newer generations of hybrid buses for full scale roll out. The programme to deliver 300 hybrid buses has been achieved ahead of the December 2012 target. This milestone is now complete but our work with bus operators and manufacturers will continue. Our focus is now on increasing the number of hybrid buses and better utilising the hybrid technology to improve fuel consumption.
In addition, the Mayor is committed as part of his manifesto to deliver 600 NBfL hybrid buses by April 2013. Route 38 is currently served by 8 NBfL hybrid buses.
The pace of the roll-out of hybrid buses will depend on available funding streams and standard route contract tenders.
Environmental benefits
We test hybrid buses to make sure they produce fewer greenhouse gas emissions, harmful pollutants and lower noise levels.
Compared with diesel buses, hybrid buses deliver the following environmental benefits:
- 30 per cent reduction in fuel use
- 30 per cent reduction in carbon dioxide
- 3 decibel [dB(A)] reduction in perceived sound levels
- Reduced oxides of nitrogen and carbon monoxide
What do you think?
If you have travelled on a hybrid bus we'd like to hear about your experience.
Was it quieter? Did it feel different to a conventional diesel bus? Email your comments and feedback to customerservices@tfl-buses.co.uk.
