Transport for LondonHybrid buses
A diesel-electric hybrid bus
Having carried out succesful trials, we are pleased to announce that all new buses entering service after 2012 will be hybrid powered!
These vehicles reduce emissions of local pollutants and carbon dioxide by at least 30 per cent compared to conventional diesel buses.
Hybrid buses in use
Six new single-decker, diesel-electric hybrid buses currently run on route 360.
If you want to ride one look at our route maps.
How they work
The buses, manufactured by The Wright Group, have a 336 volt battery pack, which provides power to the wheels via a 120 kilowatt electric motor.
The battery pack is kept at optimum power by a 1.9 litre diesel Euro IV engine. In other words, the type of engine you would normally find in a family car keeps the vehicle's batteries charged.
When the vehicle brakes, energy which would normally be wasted is recycled and used to charge the batteries. With continuous charging of the batteries, the vehicle gets more miles to the gallon and can achieve a larger operational range than a conventional diesel bus.
Environmental benefits
Compared with conventional diesel buses, hybrids deliver considerable environmental benefits, including:
- 89 per cent reduction in oxides of nitrogen
- 83 per cent reduction in carbon monoxide
- 40 per cent reduction in fuel use
- 38 per cent reduction in carbon dioxide
- 30 per cent reduction in perceived sound levels (noise reduced from 78 to 74 decibels)
The results show that these buses produce fewer greenhouse gas emissions and harmful local pollutants, as well as having lower noise levels.
The figures are based on tests carried out at the Millbrook Proving Ground.
What do you think?
Have you travelled on a hybrid bus yet? If so, we'd love 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.
