Built by two companies called ADL and BAE Systems these buses make their grand debut at Birmingham's Euro Bus Expo 2008. This also mark's the introduction of BAE's HybriDrive propulsion technology to the old continent's market. This system is already used in no more than 1500 buses in the States, which makes it the most common hybrid system in the world (in public transportation).
Rob Lindsey, the director of transport systems for the U.K. and Europe brags about this saying “Our hybrid technology is the most proven in the industry, with more than 70 million miles of revenue service to date”. He also states: “Joining with Alexander Dennis brings the combined benefits of improved fuel economy, lower production of greenhouse gases and other emissions, and reduced vehicle maintenance to the transit system and to the residents of London.”
The system, consisting of a generator, electric motor and energy storage and managed by an electronic overlord, is used with success in New York, San Francisco, Houston, Toronto and Ottawa, and has proved to be both ecologically clean and durable. Meanwhile, back in the engine room, a diesel powerplant that turns the generator works independently of the electric motor, allowing it to run more cheaply.
Furthermore these clever buses use no mechanical transmissions and regenerative braking systems (like BMW's efficient dynamics cars) which charge up the battery when braking. They are equipped with lithium-ion batteries (very likely you will find one of those in your mobile phone) which are lighter and more efficient than most batteries.
BAE's buses are said to have saved 5 million of gallons of fuel, and prevented more than 50.000 tons of CO2 of entering the atmosphere. So next time you want to blame public transport for killing your tree, think again.
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