Hybrid buses hit New York city

Diesel-Electric public transport lands in the big apple in a big way.

Daimler has announced that it has just received an order for 1,052 Orion VII Next Generation Diesel-Electric Hybrid Buses from some of North America’s largest transport authorities.

New York alone has ordered 850 and anticipates having a fleet of around 1,600 hybrid buses by 2010.

The vehicles, which are powered by BAE Systems' Hybri Drive(R) diesel-electric hybrid propulsion system, are designed for greater fuel economy and lower emission levels. This works via a single electric motor that’s driven by a diesel generator and an energy storage unit.

Regenerative braking

The bus also features a ‘regenerative braking’ system that uses the drive motor for braking, effectively turning the motor into a generator to produce extra charge.

The vehicle can also boast 30 per cent better fuel economy than regular diesel buses and considerably less production of harmful discharges, not to mention a smoother, quieter ride.

Commenting on the order, Andreas Renschler from Daimler said: “In North America, where public-private partnerships create the right conditions, hybrid buses have proven to be an ideal solution for modern urban city transportation.”

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